JP2009178248A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables a player to control the progress of a game and easily recognize the residual amount of stored balls in an upper tray. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine comprises: a ball path 65 for guiding game balls to a shooting area; the upper tray 5a whose bottom surface is inclined toward the ball path 65, and which is provided continuously with the ball path 65 and is capable of temporarily storing the game balls shot by a shooting device; a first scale part 40, a second scale part 41 and a third scale part 42 provided on prescribed positions in the upper tray 5a; and a main CPU for putting out the prescribed number of game balls to the upper tray 5a when a prescribed condition is established. The first scale part 40, the second scale part 41 and the third scale part 42 indicate the number of the game balls which can be stored inside areas from the ball path 65 to the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41 and the third scale part 42 of the area in the upper tray 5a. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a pachislot gaming machine in which a game using a gaming medium is performed.

  In recent pachinko gaming machines, game balls (game media) paid out as prize balls or rental balls are stored in an upper plate (storage means). The game balls stored in the upper plate are consumed as game balls launched into the game area.

  However, it is difficult for a skilled player to estimate the number of game balls stored in the upper plate. In addition, at present, the configuration and capacity of the upper plate differ depending on the model, and this situation makes it difficult to guess the game balls stored in the upper plate.

  In this case, it is difficult to manage the stored balls, and there is a risk that the stored balls in the upper plate will break when it is important, and the game balls cannot be fired.

  Therefore, a game that is arranged in the upper plate and has a detection unit that operates when there is a game ball at the arrangement position, and when the detection unit does not operate, a game that transmits a signal that prompts supply of the game ball to the control circuit And a sensor for detecting the state of the stored ball on the upper plate (for example, refer to Patent Document 1), and when the big hit game advantageous to the player occurs, the above-mentioned sensor causes the stored ball on the upper plate to be less than a predetermined number. When it is detected that the game is stored in the auxiliary storage device, the game machine releases the storage of the auxiliary storage device in order to use it as a game ball to be launched into the game area (for example, Patent Document 2) has been proposed.

According to the gaming machines of Patent Documents 1 and 2, when the number of stored balls in the upper plate falls below a predetermined number, game balls for launching into the game area are automatically supplied. It is possible to avoid a situation in which the game ball cannot be fired.
JP-A-5-228240 JP-A-6-277350

  However, in the gaming machines of Patent Documents 1 and 2, the supply of the game ball for launching into the game area is automatically performed regardless of the player's intention, and therefore the player does not want the supply Even so, game balls are supplied one after another.

  According to such a gaming machine, for example, even if it is decided to end the game when there is no more stored ball in the upper plate, the game ball is automatically supplied, so the time to quit is lost. In addition, when game balls are supplied one after another regardless of the player's intention, the player who wants to play leisurely while taking a break receives an impression of being rushed and feels pressure. End up.

  Therefore, it is desired to provide a gaming machine in which the player can control the progress of the game and can easily grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which a player can control the progress of the game and can easily grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate.

  In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention according to claim 1 is a game board (game board 2) having a game area (game area 2a) in which a game ball rolls, and a game located in the launch area. A launching means (launching device 90) for launching a ball toward the game area, a ball passage (ball passage 65) for guiding the game ball to the launch area, and a bottom surface inclining toward the ball passage and continuing to the ball passage. And a storage means (upper plate 5a) capable of temporarily storing a game ball fired by the launching means, and a scale part (first scale part 40, second scale part) provided at a predetermined position in the storage means 41, a third scale portion 42) and a game ball payout means (main CPU 201) for paying out a predetermined number of game balls to the storage means when a predetermined condition is established, and the scale portion is an area in the storage means. Of the scale from the ball passage Characterized in that the number of storable game balls in the region of at.

  The storage means of this configuration has a bottom surface inclined toward the ball passage and a scale portion provided at a predetermined position.

  This scale part has shown the number of game balls which can be stored in the area | region from a ball path to the said scale part among the area | regions in a storage means. Therefore, for example, when game balls are stored from the ball passage to the scale part, it can be estimated that the number of game balls stored in the storage unit is close to the number indicated by the scale part.

  That is, according to the present invention, since the storage means is provided with a scale portion capable of estimating the number of game balls stored in the storage means, it is easy to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the storage means. It becomes. In this case, the player can replenish the storage means more appropriately with game balls, and can replenish the storage means with game balls at his / her own discretion.

  According to this, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which the player can control the progress of the game and can easily grasp the remaining amount of the storage ball in the storage means.

  The present invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 1, the scale portion is provided on the bottom surface (bottom surface 5ab) of the storage means.

  According to the present configuration in which the scale portion is provided on the bottom surface of the storage unit, when the game balls are stored up to the number indicated by the scale portion, the game balls are positioned on the scale portion.

  According to this, since it becomes easy to determine whether or not the number of stored balls in the storage unit has reached the number indicated by the scale unit, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the storage unit.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first or second aspect of the present invention, at least a part of the scale portion is provided so as to emit light.

  According to the present configuration in which at least a part of the scale portion is provided so as to be able to emit light, the scale portion can be made conspicuous by the light emission. According to this, grasping | ascertaining of the residual amount of the storage ball in a storage means becomes easier.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects, a storage detection means (first storage state monitoring) capable of detecting a game ball located on the scale portion. Sensor 50, second storage state monitoring sensor 51, third storage state monitoring sensor 52), and light emission control means (sub CPU 301) for controlling the light emission of the scale portion. In the case where the scale is not detected, the scale portion is controlled to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode.

  The present configuration includes a storage detection unit that detects a game ball located on the scale unit, and a light emission control unit that performs control to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode when the storage detection unit does not detect the game ball. According to this, when the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit is less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit, the scale unit emits light in a predetermined light emission mode.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit is less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit, it is easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the storage means.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect of the present invention, an audio output means (speakers 6a and 6b) for outputting audio and an audio output means Voice control means (sub CPU301) that performs voice output control, and the voice control means performs control to output a voice corresponding to the detection from the voice output means when the storage detection means detects a game ball. It is characterized by.

  When the storage detection unit detects a game ball, according to the present configuration including the voice control unit that controls to output a sound corresponding to the detection from the voice output unit, the game in which the storage ball in the storage unit is indicated by the scale unit When the number is less than the number of balls, sound corresponding to the detection is output from the sound output means.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit is less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit, it is easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the storage means.

  The present invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the sound output means is provided in a scale portion.

  According to this configuration, when the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit is less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit, a sound corresponding to the detection is output from the scale unit.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit is less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit, it is easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the storage means.

  The present invention described in claim 7 is characterized in that, in addition to the configuration of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 6, a plurality of scale portions are provided.

  According to the present configuration in which a plurality of scale parts are provided, it is possible to more accurately grasp the remaining amount of the stored ball in the storage unit.

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  That is, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which the player can control the progress of the game and can easily grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine (game machine) 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. 1 to 13 show an embodiment of a gaming machine 1 to which a prepaid card system is applied.

  1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a front view showing a gaming board of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of the upper plate according to the present embodiment as viewed from above, FIG. 5 is an explanatory view of the upper plate according to the present embodiment as viewed from above, and FIG. 6 (a) is FIG. 4 (a). FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 4B, FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 4B, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the system timer interrupt processing according to the present embodiment, FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the storage state switch check processing according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 10 is related to the present embodiment. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of a storage state alerting | reporting process, FIG. 11 is a theory which shows an example of the production | presentation aspect list which concerns on the form of this invention. FIG, 12 is an explanatory view showing a sound output mode of the loudspeaker according to the embodiment of the present invention, FIG 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the upper tray.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a pachinko gaming machine (game machine) 1 includes a main body frame 3a having a game board 2 (FIG. 2) mounted thereon and an opening 3aa formed on the front surface, and the main body frame 3a. Is installed at the rear of the main body frame 3a, various parts arranged inside the opening 3aa, a glass door 4 fitted with a glass plate 9b covering the front side of the game board 2 so as to be visible The outer frame 3b is fixed to the outer frame 3b.

  The main body frame 3a has one end rotatably attached to the outer frame 3b via a hinge (not shown), and the main body frame 3a and the outer frame 3b constitute the gaming machine main body 3. ing. And with respect to the main body frame 3a of such a game machine main body 3, the speaker covers 60a and 60b which protect the speaker (audio | voice output means) 6a and 6b (FIG. 2) fixed to the right and left of the main body frame 3a upper part are provided. A decoration unit 60, a liquid crystal display device (variable display means) 21 whose display state can be changed, a glass door 9a having a glass plate 9b covering the game board 2 so as to be visible, a storage unit 5, an ashtray 10, and a launch handle 7 are arranged. It is installed.

  One end of the glass door 9a is pivotally supported by the main body frame 3a (for example, the left end of the glass door 9a is pivotally supported by the main body frame 3a via hinges 3c and 3d (FIG. 2). The other end is engaged with the main body frame 3a. Thereby, a game is normally performed in the state which the glass door 9a face-closed to the main body frame 3a.

  The storage unit 5 includes storage means (upper plate 5a) and lower plate 5b that can temporarily store award balls paid out by a game ball payout control unit described later. Here, the lower plate 5b is located below the upper plate 5a as shown in FIG. In addition, below the lower plate 5b, a space is formed in which a dollar box 410 configured to be able to store and carry a prize ball can be placed. When the dollar box 410 is disposed in the space, the storage unit 5 is positioned above the dollar box 410.

  Further, one end of the storage unit 5 is pivotally supported by the gaming machine body 3 and the other end is engaged with the gaming machine body 3.

  Inside the opening 3aa of the main body frame 3a, as will be described later, a liquid crystal display device 21 having a display area 21a capable of displaying an effect image (for example, animation corresponding to a gaming state or other notification information), a spacer 11, game board 2 etc. are arranged. In addition, about various components (not shown) other than the game board 2, the spacer 11, and the liquid crystal display device 21, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy.

  The game board 2 is formed of a plate-like resin (a member having transparency) that has a light-transmitting property. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 2 has a game area 2a in which the shot game balls can be transferred to the front side of the glass door 9a facing the glass plate 9b. The game area 2a is an area surrounded by the rails 6 and capable of transferring a game ball. The game board 2 may be transparent or translucent. Moreover, you may be comprised from members other than a synthetic resin.

  The game area 2a is surrounded by the rail 6, and as shown in FIG. 3, obstacles such as windmills (not shown), obstacle nails (not shown), obstacle members 28 and 29, and the general prize winning device 12 The gaming members such as the passing gate 13, the start winning device 18, the big winning device 15, and the out port 16 are arranged.

  The spacer 11 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 2 and on the front (front side) of the liquid crystal display device 21. That is, the spacer 11 is interposed between the game board 2 and the liquid crystal display device 21. The spacer 11 is made of a material having permeability, and a large through hole 11a is provided at the center. The spacer 11 provides a thickness that allows the through-hole 11a to receive an electrical decoration unit 26 that notifies predetermined information about the game.

  Further, the liquid crystal display device 21 described above is disposed on the back side of the spacer 11. The display area 21a of the liquid crystal display device 21 includes an area for displaying an effect image, and a decorative symbol display area 21b (FIG. 3) in which a decorative symbol change display and a stop display are performed.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the decorative symbol display area 21b is divided into three parts, a left reel portion 22a, a middle reel portion 22b, and a right reel portion 22c. It has come to be.

  In the present embodiment in which the game board 2 and the spacer 11 are formed of a permeable material, the display area 21 a of the liquid crystal display device 21 is disposed so as to be visible through the game board 2 and the spacer 11. Here, instead of the liquid crystal display device 21, for example, a CRT (cathode ray tube) or a plasma display can be used.

  Here, the general winning device 12 is a device in which a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) are paid back when a game ball is won, and the passing gate 13 is a normal symbol display 25a, 25b triggered by the passing of the game ball. This is a device for blinking (described later).

  The grand prize winning device 15 is a so-called attacker-type opening / closing device having a door and a reception opening for a game ball, and is in a closed state where the door is closed and it becomes difficult to win the game ball, and the door is opened and the game ball wins. The opening / closing operation with the open state is facilitated. Furthermore, a winning area in which a game ball can pass is provided inside the big winning device 15.

  The start winning device 18 includes a receiving port 18c into which a game ball enters (wins), and a variable wing 18a that can be changed between an open state in which the game ball is likely to win in the receiving port 18c and a closed state in which the game ball is difficult to win. , 18b.

  Here, the closed state in the start winning device 18 is a state in which the variable wings 18 a and 18 b are closed and the game ball is difficult to enter the receiving port 18 c of the start winning device 18. On the other hand, the open state in the start winning device 18 is a state in which the variable wings 18a and 18b are opened in an inverted octagon shape so that the game ball can easily enter the receiving port 18c of the start winning device 18.

  The out port 16 is a device for collecting and collecting game balls that have not won any of the general winning device 12, the start winning device 18, and the big winning device 15.

  Below the glass door 9a, the game balls (prize balls) paid out from the first outlet 100 under the control of the game ball payout control means described later are temporarily stored, and the game balls are supplied to the launch area described later. An upper plate (storage means) 5a is disposed. Further, below the upper plate 5a, a lower plate 5b for temporarily storing game balls overflowing from the upper plate 5a is arranged (see FIG. 1). Further, a shutter button 8 is provided at a predetermined position of the upper plate 5a, which is operated when the game ball stored in the upper plate 5a is moved to the lower plate 5b and taken out at the end of the game.

  4 and 5 are explanatory views of the upper plate 5a as viewed from above. As shown in the figure, the inner wall 5aa on the outer side of the gaming machine among the inner walls 5aa of the upper plate 5a is curved. Further, the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a is gently inclined toward the right. At the right end of the upper plate 5a, a ball passage 65 connected to a launch area and a second discharge port 110 described later is formed. As described above, the upper plate 5 a is an example of a storage unit that has a bottom surface inclined toward the ball passage 65 and is provided continuously with the ball passage 65.

  According to the upper plate 5a having such a configuration, the game ball 400 paid out from the first outlet 100 located on the left side of the upper plate 5a flows down to the right and flows into the ball passage 65. To come. Then, the game ball overflowing from the ball passage 65 is stored from the right side of the upper plate 5a (see FIG. 4B and FIG. 5).

  Here, the game ball overflowing from the upper plate 5 a and the game ball moving by operating the shutter button 8 reach the lower plate 5 b via the ball passage 65 and the second discharge port 110.

  Further, on the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a, a scale unit (a first scale unit 40, a second scale unit 41, and a third scale unit 42) that can grasp the number of stored balls (game balls 400) in the upper plate 5a. ) Is formed.

  Here, the 1st scale part 40 is formed in the intermediate position of the 1st discharge port 100 and the ball path 65 among the bottom faces 5ab in the top plate 5a. Moreover, the 1st scale part 40 is formed in the bar | bowl part 40a extended in the front-back direction, and the left side of the said bar | burr part 40a, and it exists in the area | region from the spherical channel | path 65 to the bar | burr part 40a in the area | region in the top plate 5a. A numerical value portion 40b (in FIG. 4A), the numerical value portion 40b indicates 400. The numerical value portion 40b is a ball passage in the region of the upper plate 5a. The number of game balls that can be stored in the area from 65 to the bar portion 40a is 400).

  That is, in the present embodiment, when the stored balls in the upper plate 5a do not reach the bar portion 40a (see FIGS. 5A to 5C), the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than 400. If the stored balls in the upper plate 5a reach the bar 40a (see FIG. 4B), it is determined that the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has become 400 or more. Can do.

  The third scale portion 42 is formed in the vicinity of the spherical passage 65 in the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a. The third scale part 42 is formed on the left side of the bar part 42a extending in the front-rear direction and the bar part 42a, and in the area from the ball passage 65 to the bar part 42a in the area of the upper plate 5a. Numerical value portion 42b indicating the number of game balls that can be stored in Arabic numerals (in FIG. 4A, numerical value portion 42b is 10. In other words, numerical value portion 42b is a ball passage in the region of upper plate 5a. 65 indicates that the number of game balls that can be stored in the area from the bar part 42a is ten).

  That is, in the present embodiment, when the stored balls in the upper plate 5a do not reach the bar portion 42a (see FIG. 5C), it is determined that the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a is less than ten. When the stored balls in the upper plate 5a reach the bar portion 42a (see FIGS. 5A and 5B), it is determined that the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has become ten or more. Can do.

  The second scale portion 41 is formed at an intermediate position between the first scale portion 40 and the third scale portion 42 in the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a. Further, the second scale portion 41 is formed on the left side of the bar portion 41a extending in the front-rear direction and the bar portion 41a, and in the region from the ball passage 65 to the bar portion 41a in the region of the upper plate 5a. Numerical value part 41b indicating the number of game balls that can be stored in Arabic numerals (in FIG. 4A, numerical value part 41b is 200. In other words, numerical value part 41b is a ball passage in the region of upper plate 5a. The number of game balls that can be stored in the area from 65 to the bar portion 41a is 200).

  That is, in the present embodiment, when the stored balls in the upper plate 5a do not reach the bar portion 41a (see FIGS. 5B and 5C), the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than 200. If the stored balls in the upper plate 5a reach the bar portion 41a (see FIG. 5A), it is determined that the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has become 200 or more. Can do.

  As described above, the upper plate 5a is inclined at the bottom surface toward the ball passage 65, and the scale portions (the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, and the third scale portion 42) are provided at predetermined positions. . The first graduation portion 40 to the third graduation portion 42 are game balls that can be stored in the region from the ball passage 65 to the first graduation portion 40 to the third graduation portion 42 in the region of the upper plate 5a. Indicates the number of Therefore, for example, when game balls are stored from the ball passage 65 to the first scale portion 40, it is estimated that the number of game balls stored in the upper plate 5a is close to the number indicated by the first scale portion 40. Can do.

  That is, according to the present invention, the upper plate 5a is a scale unit (a first scale unit 40, a second scale unit 41, and a third scale unit 42) that can estimate the number of game balls stored in the upper plate 5a. Is provided, it becomes easy to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate 5a. In this case, the player can refill the upper plate 5a with more appropriate game balls, and can refill the upper plate 5a with his / her own discretion. .

  Further, according to the present embodiment in which the scale parts (first scale part 40, second scale part 41, third scale part 42) are provided on the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a, the scale part (first scale part) 40, when the game balls are stored up to the number indicated by the second scale portion 41, the third scale portion 42), the scale portion (the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, the third scale portion 42) above The game ball will be located at For example, when game balls are stored up to the number (400) indicated by the first scale portion 40a, the game balls are positioned on the first scale portion 40 (see FIG. 4B). .

  According to this, since it becomes easy to determine whether or not the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a reaches the number indicated by the scale portion, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment in which a plurality of scale portions are provided, it is possible to more accurately grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  Here, the first graduation section 40, the second graduation section 41, and the third graduation section 42 in the present embodiment are configured by LEDs, and emit light according to control of a sub CPU (light emission control means) 301 described later. It is supposed to be. However, in the present invention, at least a part of the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42) may be configured by LEDs.

  Specifically, in this embodiment, all of the bar portion 40a, the numerical value portion 40b, the bar portion 41a, the numerical value portion 41b, the bar portion 42a, and the numerical value portion 42b are configured by LEDs, and these LEDs will be described later. Light is emitted under the control of a sub CPU (light emission control means) 301.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment in which the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42) are provided so as to emit light, the scale part can be made conspicuous by the light emission. It becomes possible. According to this, grasping | ascertaining of the residual amount of the storage ball in the upper plate 5a becomes easier.

  In addition, on the inner wall of the upper plate 5a, storage detection means (a first storage state monitoring sensor 50, a second storage state monitoring sensor 51, a third storage device) that can detect the storage state of the game ball 400 stored in the upper plate 5a. A storage state monitoring sensor 52) is provided.

  The first storage state monitoring sensor 50 includes a light emitting unit 50a and a light receiving unit 50b that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 50a. Based on the light receiving state of the light receiving unit 50b, the game stored in the upper plate 5a. It is detected whether or not the number of balls 400 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40.

  Specifically, the light emitting unit 50a and the light receiving unit 50b are disposed so as to face each other in the inner wall 5aa of the upper plate 5a that is located in the longitudinal direction of the bar 40a of the first scale unit 40 (note that the light emitting unit 50a). 50a is disposed on the inner wall 5aa on the main body side of the gaming machine, the light receiving unit 50b is disposed on the inner wall 5aa on the outside of the gaming machine), and the light emitting unit 50a irradiates the light receiving unit 50b (FIG. 4A). )reference).

  The third storage state monitoring sensor 52 includes a light emitting unit 52a and a light receiving unit 52b that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 52a. Based on the light receiving state of the light receiving unit 52b, the game stored in the upper plate 5a. It is detected whether or not the number of balls 400 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42.

  Specifically, the light emitting part 52a and the light receiving part 52b are disposed to face each other in the inner wall 5aa of the upper plate 5a, which is located in the longitudinal direction of the bar part 42a in the third scale part 42 (note that the light emitting part 52a is arranged on the inner wall 5aa on the main body side of the gaming machine, the light receiving part 52b is arranged on the inner wall 5aa on the outside of the gaming machine, and the light emitting part 52a irradiates the light receiving part 52b (FIG. 4A). )reference).

  The second storage state monitoring sensor 51 includes a light emitting unit 51a and a light receiving unit 51b that receives light emitted from the light emitting unit 51a. Based on the light receiving state of the light receiving unit 51b, the game stored in the upper plate 5a. It is detected whether or not the number of balls 400 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41.

  Specifically, the light emitting unit 51a and the light receiving unit 51b are disposed opposite to a portion of the inner wall 5aa of the upper plate 5a that is positioned in the longitudinal direction of the bar portion 41a of the second scale unit 41 (note that the light emitting unit 51a). 51a is arranged on the inner wall 5aa on the main body side of the gaming machine, the light receiving part 51b is arranged on the inner wall 5aa on the outside of the gaming machine, and the light emitting part 51a irradiates the light receiving part 51b (FIG. 4A). )reference).

  Next, an example in which the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40 is shown in FIGS. 6 will be described.

  Fig.6 (a) is sectional drawing along the AA of Fig.4 (a). FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 6A, when the light receiving unit 50b receives light from the light emitting unit 50a that is always in a light emitting state, the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 is It is detected that the number of game balls 400 stored in 5a is less than the number of game balls (400 pieces) indicated by the first scale unit 40. Then, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6B, when the game ball is stored in the upper plate 5a from the light emitting unit 50a to the light receiving unit 50b on the optical path, the stored game is stored. The presence of the sphere 400 prevents light from the light emitting unit 50a from reaching the light receiving unit 50b. When the light receiving unit 50b is in such a light receiving state for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) (that is, when light from the light emitting unit 50a does not reach the light receiving unit 50b for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second)). The first storage state monitoring sensor 50 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a has reached the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40. That is, the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 can detect the game ball located on the first scale unit 40 by the light emitting unit 50a and the light receiving unit 50b, and the light emitting unit 50a and the light receiving unit 50b detect the game ball. If not, the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls (400 pieces) indicated by the first scale unit 40. When the light emitting unit 50a and the light receiving unit 50b detect a game ball, the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 indicates that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40. The fact that (400) has been reached is detected.

  Next, an example in which the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41 is shown in FIGS. 6 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5 (b), when the light receiving unit 51b receives light from the light emitting unit 51a that is always in a light emitting state, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 is a game stored in the upper plate 5a. It is detected that the number of balls 400 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41. As shown in FIG. 5A, in the upper plate 5a, when a game ball is stored from the light emitting unit 51a to the light receiving unit 51b, due to the presence of the stored game ball 400, The light from the light emitting unit 51a does not reach the light receiving unit 51b. When the light receiving unit 51b is in such a light receiving state for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) (that is, when light from the light emitting unit 51a does not reach the light receiving unit 51b for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second)). The second storage state monitoring sensor 51 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a has reached the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41. That is, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 can detect the game ball located on the second scale unit 41 by the light emitting unit 51a and the light receiving unit 51b, and the light emitting unit 51a and the light receiving unit 51b detect the game ball. If not, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls (200 pieces) indicated by the second scale unit 41. When the light emitting unit 51a and the light receiving unit 51b detect a game ball, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 indicates that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41. The fact that (200) has been reached is detected.

  Next, an example in which the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42 is shown in FIGS. 6 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5C, when the light receiving unit 52b receives light from the light emitting unit 52a that is always in a light emitting state, the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 is a game stored in the upper plate 5a. It is detected that the number of balls 400 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42. Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, in the upper plate 5a, when a game ball is stored from the light emitting unit 52a to the light receiving unit 52b, due to the presence of the stored game ball 400, The light from the light emitting unit 52a does not reach the light receiving unit 52b. When the light receiving unit 52b is in such a light receiving state for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) (that is, when light from the light emitting unit 52a does not reach the light receiving unit 52b for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second)). The third storage state monitoring sensor 52 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a has reached the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42. That is, the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 can detect the game ball located on the third scale portion 42 by the light emitting unit 52a and the light receiving unit 52b, and the light emitting unit 52a and the light receiving unit 52b detect the game ball. If not, the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls (10 pieces) indicated by the third scale unit 42. When the light emitting unit 52a and the light receiving unit 52b detect a game ball, the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 indicates that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42. The fact that (10 pieces) has been reached is detected.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 is less than the number (10) of game balls indicated by the third scale portion 42. The storage state (for example, the storage state shown in FIG. 5 (c)) of the upper tray 5a when this is detected is called the third storage state, and the game balls stored in the upper tray 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 It is detected that the number of 400 has reached the number of game balls (10) indicated by the third scale unit 42, and the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 is the second. The storage state (for example, the storage state shown in FIG. 5B) of the upper plate 5a when it is detected that the number of game balls (200) indicated by the scale unit 41 is below is referred to as a second storage state.

  Further, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a has reached the number of game balls (200) indicated by the second scale unit 41, and the first storage. The storage state of the upper plate 5a when the state monitoring sensor 50 detects that the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is less than the number of game balls (400 pieces) indicated by the first scale unit 40 ( For example, the storage state shown in FIG. 5A is referred to as a first storage state, and the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 is indicated by the first scale unit 40. The storage state (for example, the storage state shown in FIG. 4B) of the upper plate 5a when it is detected that the number (400 pieces) has been reached is referred to as a sufficient state.

  The first storage state monitoring sensor 50, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 are electrically connected to a sub CPU 301 (FIG. 7) of the sub control circuit 300 described later, respectively. While detecting that the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, and the third scale unit 42 is below, a predetermined signal is input to the sub CPU 301.

  The sub CPU 301 that has detected a signal from the storage detection unit performs light emission control of the scale unit (the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, and the third scale unit 42) and a speaker (sound output unit) according to the signal. ) Perform audio output control of 6a and 6b.

  In addition, the light emitting units 50a, 51a, and 52a of the present embodiment emit light other than visible light (for example, infrared light), for example. Note that the light emitting units 50a, 51a, and 52a may irradiate the light receiving units 50b, 51b, and 52b, respectively, using a modulation pulse method. Furthermore, the arrangement positions of the first storage state monitoring sensor 50, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 are not limited to the above-described examples, and may be arranged at other positions, respectively. Good.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a long hole 5bd extending in the lateral direction is formed on the side surface of the lower plate 5b, and a ball removal lever 5bb capable of a ball removal operation is provided in the long hole 5bd. Protrusively provided. Further, a circular ball punching hole (not shown) is opened at the center of the bottom surface of the lower plate 5b in response to the ball removing operation, and the game ball 400 stored in the lower plate 5b is dropped and discharged to the outside. Is provided penetrating to the lower surface of the lower plate 5b.

  The ball hole is normally closed by a shutter (not shown) urged by a spring force so that the game ball 400 does not fall. When the ball removal lever 5bb is operated, the shutter moves against the spring force, the ball removal hole is opened, and the game ball 400 can be dropped. That is, in the present embodiment, it is possible to drop the gaming ball 400 stored in the lower plate 5b and discharge it outside the machine by performing a ball removing operation on the ball removing lever 5bb.

  Here, the ball removal operation means that the ball removal lever 5bb is slid laterally along the long hole 5bd by the player's hand.

  Further, the game ball 400 discharged (dispensed) out of the machine through the ball punching hole is stored in a portable manner by arranging the above-described dollar box 410 below the lower plate 5b in advance. (See FIG. 1).

  On the right side of the lower plate 5b, there is provided a launching handle 7 that is rotated when the game ball is launched to the game area 2a via the rail 6. The launch handle 7 is provided with a stop button (not shown) for stopping the launch of the game ball.

  Then, when the player rotates the launch handle 7 to perform a launch operation, the game ball that has flowed into the ball passage 65 from the upper plate 5a is returned to the rear surface of the main body frame 3a by a launch ball supply device (not shown). And the game ball supplied to the launch area is played along the rail 6 by the launch device (launch means) 90 (see FIG. 7) disposed on the back surface of the main body frame 3a. Fired. That is, the upper plate 5a is an example of a storage unit that stores a game ball before being launched into the game area 2a. The ball passage 65 is an example of a ball passage 65 that guides the game balls stored in the upper plate 5a to the launch area.

  Next, the electrical decoration unit 26 will be described. The illumination unit 26 is disposed on the upper portion of the through hole 11a provided in the spacer 11 (see FIG. 2). The special symbol display 24, the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b, and the four normal symbol passage storage displays. The unit 23 is composed of four special symbol start memory displays 22. The special symbol indicator 24 is composed of 7 segment LEDs, while the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b, the normal symbol passage memory indicator 23, and the special symbol start memory indicator 22 are each composed of LEDs. Yes.

  Further, since the illumination unit 26 is located on the back side of the game board 2 having transparency, the special symbol display 24, the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b, and the four normal symbol passing storage indicators. 23 and the four special symbol start memory indicators 22 are visible from the front side of the game board 2 (see FIG. 3).

  The passing gate 13 detects a passing game ball. When the game ball passes through the passing gate 13, a random number for normal winning lottery is extracted as passing memory, and the passing memory is stored in a passing storage area ("0" to "4") of the main RAM 203 described later. Is done. Based on this passing memory, the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b are blinked for a predetermined time. Further, the number of passage memories stored in the passage storage areas (“1” to “4”) is displayed on the four normal symbol passage storage indicators 23 described above.

  For example, when two passage memories are stored in the passage storage areas (“1” to “4”), two of the four normal symbol passage storage indicators 23 are lit. The number of lighting of the normal symbol passing memory display 23 can inform the player of the number of passing memories stored in the passing memory area (“1” to “4”).

  The normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b blink alternately, and the blinking of the normal symbol indicators 25a and 25b ends (the time until the blinking ends is 30 seconds in the non-short-time state). In the short-time state, it is 6 seconds.) When “winning” is displayed (when the above flashing is finished and the normal symbol display 25a is lit and stopped display. The start winning device 18 is switched to an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball for a predetermined time (the open time is 0.3 seconds in the non-short-time state. On the other hand, the short-time state) If so, the 1.8 second open state is repeated three times.)

  Here, the short time state means a state in which the average blinking display time of the normal symbol is shorter than that in the other state (in the non-short time state), and the number of times the normal symbol fluctuates per time is improved (for example, non-time state). (The fluctuation display time of the normal symbol in the time reduction state is 30 seconds, and the fluctuation display time of the normal symbol in the time reduction state is 6 seconds.) Further, when the time is shortened, the variable blades 18a and 18b are switched to the open state more frequently than the non-time-short state (that is, the total open state time of the variable blades 18a and 18b per unit time). Is relatively large).

  Note that the control in the short-time state is continued until the variation display of the special symbol reaches a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 100 times) or until a big hit lottery by a big hit lottery means described later is won.

  Further, when a game ball wins the start winning device 18, a random number for jackpot lottery is extracted as a start memory, and the start memory is stored in a start storage area (“0” to “4”) of the main RAM 203 described later. It has come to be remembered. The number of start memories stored in the start storage area ("1" to "4") is displayed on the four special symbol start memory displays 22 described above.

  For example, when two start memories are stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”), two of the four special symbol start memory indicators 22 are lit. The number of the start memories stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”) can be notified to the player by the number of lighting of the special symbol start memory display 22.

  In addition, examples of special symbols displayed on the special symbol display 24 that is a 7-segment LED include Arabic numerals “0” to “9” and symbols such as “−”. These numbers and symbols are variably displayed after winning the game ball to the start winning device 18. In addition, the fluctuation display result of these figures and symbols is finished, and the fluctuation display result (the fluctuation display result here is a special symbol stopped and displayed) is a number such as “0” to “9”. This is called a jackpot. This jackpot mode is a display mode that indicates a transition to a jackpot game that is advantageous to the player as compared to other gaming states (that is, a “hit”). A variation display result other than the jackpot mode (for example, when the variation display result is “−”) is referred to as a non-hit mode.

  Here, the jackpot mode for causing the player to recognize that the game will shift to jackpot game is a probability variation jackpot mode that is a display mode that shows a probability variation jackpot, and a non-probability variation jackpot mode that is a display mode that shows a non-probability variation jackpot It is divided into and.

  The probability variation big hit mode means that an odd number such as “7” or “3” results in a variable display, while the non-probable big hit mode is an even number such as “2” or “6”. Is the case where a variable display result is obtained.

  In addition, when the variation display result of the special symbol becomes the probability variation jackpot mode (that is, when the probability variation jackpot), the probability that the variation display result of the special symbol on the special symbol display 24 becomes the jackpot mode after the jackpot game ends is high. Transition to probability state. On the other hand, when the variation display result of the special symbol is in the non-probable variation big hit mode (that is, when the big hit is normal), after the big hit game ends, the state is shifted to a non-high probability state.

  The jackpot game that is advantageous to the player is, for example, a case where a prize winning device solenoid 72S described later is an opening / closing operation of the prize winning device 15 (hereinafter referred to as an opening / closing operation of the prize winning device performed during the jackpot game). ”) Is a game state that makes it easier to win more game balls than a normal game state that is not a jackpot game.

  However, since the special symbol display 24 is located above the game board 2 that is likely to become a blind spot of the player and its size is small, it is identified from the special symbol display 24 whether or not the jackpot has been won. It is not easy to do. Therefore, whether or not the jackpot is won is usually identified by a decorative pattern stop mode (variable display result) as described later.

  Examples of the decorative symbols displayed in the decorative symbol display area 21b include Arabic numerals such as “0”, “1”, “2”... “9”, and other symbols. These numbers and symbols are variably displayed after the game ball has won the start winning device 18. When these numbers and symbols change and display stops, the same numbers such as “7” “7” “7” ”“ 2 ”“ 2 ”“ 2 ””, etc. A case where three symbols are arranged in a row is called a jackpot display mode. This jackpot display mode is a display mode that indicates that the game state shifts to a jackpot game that is advantageous to the player as compared to other game states (that is, the player has won the “hit”).

  Note that the stop mode other than the jackpot display mode described above is referred to as a stoppage mode.

  The decorative symbol variation display is performed in conjunction with the special symbol variation display described above. And when the display mode (that is, the jackpot mode) indicating that the special symbol stop mode shifts to the jackpot game, the display mode (that is, the decorative symbol stop mode also shifts to the jackpot game) (that is, the jackpot game). Jackpot display mode).

  Here, the jackpot display mode for allowing the player to recognize that the game will shift to jackpot game is a probability variation mode that is a display mode that indicates that the probability variation jackpot has been won, and a display mode that indicates that the player has won the jackpot game normally It is divided into the normal mode.

  In addition, the probability variation mode refers to the case where an odd number such as “7” or “3” is the stop mode, while the normal mode is the case where an even number such as “2” or “6” is the stop mode. When it becomes.

  In the present embodiment, the number of start memories stored in the start storage area (“1” to “4”) and the number of pass memories stored in the pass storage areas (“1” to “4”) are as follows. These are displayed on the special symbol start memory display 22 and the normal symbol passage storage display 23, respectively, but are not limited thereto, and may be displayed on other display media. For example, it may be displayed in the display area 21a.

  Next, the control system of the gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a control system of the gaming machine shown in FIG.

  The control system of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control circuit 200, a sub control circuit 300 connected to the main control circuit 200, a payout control circuit 70a, and a launch control circuit 70b. This control system is mounted on the back side of the game board 2.

  A card unit 81 is connected to the payout control circuit 70 a of the gaming machine 1.

  The card unit 81 is installed in the vicinity of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and has an insertion slot into which a prepaid card can be inserted, and reads the recorded information recorded on the prepaid card inserted into the insertion slot. Means, a lending command signal output means for outputting a lending command signal for instructing lending of game balls to the payout control circuit 70a in accordance with an operation of the ball lending operation panel 9 (FIG. 7), and a record read by the reading means Write means for subtracting the number of loans instructed to lend by the lending command signal output means from the available lending number specified from the information and recording the information on the prepaid card inserted in the insertion port .

  The main control circuit 200 has a main CPU (microcomputing processing device) 201 that controls the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a preset program, and returns various settings to initial values when an abnormality occurs or when the power is turned on. An initial reset circuit 204 that generates a reset signal, a lamp control circuit 207 that controls display of LEDs and the like, and a main RAM 203 that stores various data necessary for the operation of the main CPU 201 are mounted.

  The main control circuit 200 further includes a program for the main CPU 201 to process and control the gaming operation of the gaming machine 1 and a jackpot lottery table that is referred to when a jackpot lottery for determining whether or not to win the jackpot game is won. When lottery is performed for a normal lottery table that is referred to when a lottery is performed by random lottery, a variable display pattern determination table that is referred to when a variable display pattern for decorative symbols is determined by random lottery, and other effects. A main ROM 202 storing various probability tables to be referred to is mounted.

  The main RAM 203 is stored in a start storage counter for counting start memories stored in a start storage area (“0” to “4”), which will be described later, and a passage storage area (“0” to “4”), which will be described later. Passing memory counter for counting passing memory, a winning device winning counter for storing the number of game balls won in the winning device 15 during one round operation, and winning a prize during one jackpot game A large winning device opening number counter for storing the number of times the door 15a of the device 15 is opened (that is, the number of round operations during one big hit game) is provided.

  Note that one round operation means that a predetermined number of times (e.g., 30 seconds) elapses after the grand prize winning device 15 is opened, or a predetermined number ( For example, it is a period until 10 game balls win the grand prize device 15.

  Here, the main RAM 203 has start storage areas (“0” to “4”).

  The start storage area is an area where the above-described start storage is stored in order from the start storage area “0”. Further, the random number for lottery lottery stored in the start memory area (“1” to “4”) corresponds to the start memory displayed on the special symbol start memory display 22 and the start memory area “0”. The jackpot lottery random value stored in is used for jackpot determination processing and the like.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has (“0” to “4”) passing storage areas.

  The passing storage area is an area in which the normal lottery random number value extracted on condition that the game ball has passed through the passing gate 13 is sequentially stored from the passing storage area “0”. The random numbers for normal winning lottery stored in the passage storage area (“1” to “4”) correspond to the passage storage displayed on the normal symbol passage storage display 23, and the passage storage area “0”. The random numbers for lottery per ordinary stored in “” are used for the lottery per ordinary.

  The main RAM 203 includes a game state flag. Here, the gaming state flag is set to a value (77) indicating a high probability state when the gaming state is shifted to a high probability state, while the gaming state is a non-high probability state (a gaming state other than the high probability state). When shifted to (2), a value (00) indicating a non-high probability state is set.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has a fluctuation shortening flag. In this case, the fluctuation shortening flag is set to a value (33) indicating the time-short state when the time-short state is reached, and is set to a value (00) indicating the non-time-short state when the time is short.

  The main CPU 201 has the functions of a jackpot lottery means, special symbol determination means, variable display pattern determination means, special symbol fluctuation display pattern determination means, special symbol display control means, game control means, game ball payout control means, and command transmission means. have.

  The jackpot lottery means is a means for performing a jackpot lottery to determine whether or not to shift the game state to a jackpot game (specific game state) advantageous to the player when a game ball wins the start winning device 18.

  For example, the jackpot lottery means performs a jackpot lottery process based on the random number value for the jackpot lottery extracted by the random lottery when the game ball wins the start winning device 18, and if the lottery process results in the jackpot lottery, It is determined that the gaming state is transferred to the jackpot game.

  Here, when it is determined by the jackpot lottery means to shift to the jackpot game, the jackpot display mode is derived in the decorative symbol display area 21b, and the jackpot game is controlled by the game control means described later.

  As described above, there are two types of jackpots: non-stochastic variation jackpots and probability variation jackpots. If the probability variation jackpot is high, the probability that the jackpot display mode is easily derived after the jackpot game ends is high. State control is performed.

  The special symbol determining means is a means for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24 in accordance with the result of the lottery by the jackpot lottery means when the jackpot lottery by the jackpot lottery means is performed.

  Specifically, the special symbol determining means determines a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24 from among the numerical symbols and symbol symbols “−” of 0 to 9 when the jackpot lottery is performed. Then, a stop symbol command indicating the special symbol is generated and set.

  The special symbol determining means is a means for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24 in accordance with the result of the lottery by the jackpot lottery means when the jackpot lottery by the jackpot lottery means is performed.

  Specifically, the special symbol determining means determines a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 24 from among the numerical symbols and symbol symbols “−” of 0 to 9 when the jackpot lottery is performed. Then, a stop symbol command indicating the special symbol is generated and set.

  When the lottery lottery means performs the lottery display pattern determining means, the variation display pattern and the variable display of the decorative symbols on the liquid crystal display device (variable display means) 21 according to the lottery result by the jackpot lottery means. It is a means of determining time.

  Specifically, the variable display pattern determining means determines the decorative display variable display pattern and the variable display time in the liquid crystal display device 21 based on the lottery result of the jackpot lottery means and a predetermined random number lottery. Further, the variation display pattern determination means generates and sets a variation display pattern command indicating the determined variation display pattern and variation display time.

  The special symbol variation display pattern determining means is a means for determining the variation display pattern and the variation display time of the special symbol on the special symbol display 24 based on the lottery result of the jackpot lottery means and a predetermined random number lottery.

  When the special symbol is determined by the special symbol determination unit, the special symbol display control unit controls the lamp control circuit 207 to determine the special symbol display unit 24 by the special symbol variation display pattern determination unit. The special symbol determined by the special symbol determining unit is displayed after the special symbol is variably displayed according to the changed display pattern.

  The game control means is means for performing control to shift the gaming state to a big hit game (specific gaming state) advantageous to the player when a predetermined gaming state transition condition is satisfied.

  Specifically, the game control means, when the display state displayed in the decorative symbol display area 21b in the liquid crystal display device (variable display means) 21 is a jackpot display mode (specific display state), that is, decorative symbols When the combination of the decorative symbols derived in the decorative symbol display area 21b as a result of the change display is in the jackpot display mode, the control is shifted to the jackpot game.

  Here, the control of the jackpot game by the jackpot game control means is continued until a series of round operations from the opening of the winning device 15 to the switching to the closed state are performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times).

  In addition, the game control means, when the jackpot game control associated with the probability variation jackpot winning is finished, controls the high probability state, and when the jackpot game control associated with the non-probability variation jackpot winning is finished, Control non-high probability states.

  The game ball payout control means is means for performing control to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls to the upper plate (storage means) 5a when a predetermined prize ball payout condition is satisfied.

  For example, the game ball payout control means receives a predetermined number (for example, 15) of prizes when a game ball has entered the general winning device 12 or a game ball has passed through the winning area of the big winning device 15. Control to pay out the ball. The game ball payout control means controls to pay out seven prize balls when a game ball wins the start winning device 18. However, the number of prize balls to be paid out is not limited to the above-described example. For example, when a game ball wins the start winning device 18, ten prize balls may be paid out.

  The game ball payout control means corresponds to a case where a game ball has entered the general winning device 12, a game ball has won the start winning device 18, a case where the game ball has passed the winning area of the big winning device 15, etc. A payout command signal is generated, and the generated payout command signal is output to a payout control circuit 70a described later, whereby a predetermined number of game balls are paid out.

  Programs for realizing the functions of the respective means described above are stored in the main ROM 202, and the main CPU 201 loads these programs from the main ROM 202 and updates and stores the calculation results in the main RAM 203 for execution. The functions of the respective means described above are realized. Of course, each of the above-described means may be configured by dedicated hardware.

  Further, the main CPU 201 as a command transmission means transmits various generated commands (variable display pattern command, stop symbol command, etc.) to the sub CPU 301 of the sub control circuit 300, thereby executing the effects in the game. .

  In the present embodiment, based on the above-mentioned various commands (variable display pattern command, stop symbol command, etc.), a display effect by the liquid crystal display device 21 or the like, a sound effect by a sound generating means such as a speaker, and a lamp or An effect of light by a light emitting means such as an LED is performed.

  An I / O port (not shown) of the main control circuit 200 is provided inside the passing gate 13 and provided in the passing gate switch 19Sa, which is a sensor for detecting the passing of the game ball, and the start winning device 18. The start winning device switch 19a, which is a sensor for detecting a game ball won in the start winning device 18, is connected.

  In addition, the I / O port is provided in a winning area in the grand prize winning device 15 and is a sensor for detecting a gaming ball passing through the prize winning area. Are connected to a general winning device switch 19Sb which is a sensor for detecting the event and a backup clear switch 74S for erasing various data stored in the main RAM 203.

  Further, the following components are connected to the I / O port. That is, actuators such as a movable member solenoid 71S for driving the variable wings 18a and 18b of the start winning device 18 and a large winning device solenoid 72S for opening and closing the door 15a of the large winning device 15 are connected.

  Here, when each of the sensors detects a game ball, the detection signal is input to the main CPU 201 of the main control circuit 200. Therefore, the main CPU 201 determines that each of the actuators 71S and 72S corresponds to the input detection signal. Are driven and controlled.

  Control commands (commands) are transmitted from the command output port 206 of the main control circuit 200 to the sub control circuit 300, the payout control circuit 70a, and the launch control circuit 70b, respectively.

  The sub-control circuit 300 that has received this control command (command) controls the operation of the liquid crystal display device 21, the speakers 8a and 8b, and the decorative lamp 39a, and the payout control circuit 70a and the launch that have received this control command (command). The control circuit 70b controls the operations of the dispensing device 82 and the launching device 90.

  The payout control circuit 70a is connected to a payout device 82 for paying out award balls and rental balls. The payout control circuit 70a drives and controls the payout device 82 in accordance with a payout command signal output from the game ball payout control means on the condition that the game ball has passed the winning area of the big winning device 15. Thereby, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out from the first outlet 100 as prize balls. In addition, the payout control circuit 70a controls the payout device 82 in accordance with the payout command signal output from the card unit 81, thereby paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the first outlet 100 as a payable ball. Yes.

  A launch device 90 that launches a game ball toward the game area 2a is connected to the launch control circuit 70b. In addition, the launch control circuit 70 b causes the launch device 90 to launch the game ball in the launch area by driving and controlling the launch solenoid in accordance with the turning operation of the launch handle 7.

  Further, the lamp control circuit 207 is electrically connected to LEDs such as the special symbol display 24, the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b, the normal symbol passage storage display 23, and the special symbol start storage display 22. The lamp control circuit 207 performs display control of the LED based on the control of the main CPU 201.

  Next, the configuration of the sub control circuit 300 will be described. The sub control circuit 300 includes a sub CPU 301, a program ROM 302, a work RAM 303, a command input port (not shown), a display control circuit 305, a sound control circuit 306, and a lamp control circuit 307.

  The program ROM 302 has a control program (effect data) for the sub CPU 301 to process-control the display control circuit 305 based on various commands output from the main control circuit 200, and a control for process-controlling the audio control circuit 306. A program, a control program for controlling the process of the lamp control circuit 307, data on a plurality of types of notification modes, and the like are stored.

  The work RAM 303 serves as a temporary storage unit when the sub CPU 301 performs processing control according to the control program, and includes a reception buffer area (not shown) for storing commands transmitted from the main CPU 201, and processing. A work area (not shown) for storing data necessary for control is allocated.

  Further, the main RAM 203 has a storage state flag. Here, the storage state flag is set to a value (00) indicating the satisfaction state when the storage state of the game ball in the upper plate 5a becomes the satisfaction state (the state shown in FIG. 4B). When the storage state of the game balls becomes the third storage state (the state shown in FIG. 5C), a value (03) indicating the third storage state is set. Then, when the storage state of the game balls in the upper plate 5a becomes the second storage state (the state shown in FIG. 5B), a value (02) indicating the second storage state is set, and the storage of the game balls in the upper plate 5a When the state becomes the first storage state (the state shown in FIG. 5A), a value (00) indicating the first storage state is set.

  Further, the lamp control circuit 207 is electrically connected to LEDs such as the special symbol display 24, the normal symbol displays 25a and 25b, the normal symbol passage storage display 23, and the special symbol start storage display 22. The lamp control circuit 207 performs display control of the LED based on the control of the main CPU 201.

  The sub CPU 301 determines a command received from the main control circuit 200 via the command input port, and controls the display control circuit 305, the audio control circuit 306, the lamp control circuit 307, and the like according to the determination result.

  Further, the sub CPU 301 has functions of a decoration symbol determination unit, a display control unit, a light emission control unit, and a sound control unit.

  The decorative symbol determining means displays the liquid crystal display according to the determination by the special symbol determining means when the determination by the special symbol determining means is performed (when the big winning lottery is performed by the main CPU (big winning lottery means) 201). It is also means for determining a decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed on the device 21.

  Specifically, the decorative symbol determining means determines a decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21 according to the special symbol indicated by the stop symbol command transmitted from the main CPU 201.

  The display control means is also a means for performing control for variably displaying the decorative symbols on the liquid crystal display device (variable display means) 21 in correspondence with the special symbols.

  Specifically, when the variable display pattern command determined by the variable display pattern determining means is transmitted from the main CPU 201, the display control means decorates the liquid crystal display device 21 according to the variable display pattern indicated by the variable display pattern command. After the symbols are variably displayed, control is performed to stop and display the decorative symbols determined by the decorative symbol determining means.

  For example, when a variable display pattern command is transmitted from the main CPU 201 that is a command transmission unit, the display control unit performs instruction control on the display control circuit 305, thereby performing a decorative pattern corresponding to the variable display pattern command. Display control of other effects, display control of other effect images, and the like. After the decorative symbol change display, the display control circuit 305 is instructed to stop and display the decorative symbol determined by the decorative symbol determining means. In this case, in the decorative symbol display area 21b of the liquid crystal display device 21, the decorative symbol is changed after the decorative symbol variable display corresponding to the variable display pattern command, that is, the decorative symbol variable display corresponding to the special symbol is performed. The decorative design determined by the means is stopped and displayed.

  The liquid crystal display device 21 is an example of a variable display means for performing a variable display and a stop display of a decorative symbol (identification information) based on the result of the big hit lottery by the big hit lottery means.

  The light emission control unit is a scale unit (first scale unit 40) when the storage detection unit (first storage state monitoring sensor 50, second storage state monitoring sensor 51, third storage state monitoring sensor 52) does not detect a game ball. The second scale portion 41 and the third scale portion 42) are means for performing control to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode.

  Specifically, when the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 does not detect a game ball (that is, when a signal is input from the first storage state monitoring sensor 50), the light emission control unit causes the lamp control circuit 307 to By performing instruction control on the first scale portion 40, the first scale portion 40 is caused to blink.

  That is, when it is detected by the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 that the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40, the first scale unit 40 flashes and emits light. To come.

  The light emission control means instructs the lamp control circuit 307 when the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 does not detect a game ball (that is, when a signal is input from the second storage state monitoring sensor 51). By performing the control, the second scale unit 41 is caused to blink.

  That is, when it is detected by the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 that the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41, the second scale unit 41 flashes and emits light. To come.

  In addition, the light emission control unit instructs the lamp control circuit 307 when the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 does not detect the game ball (that is, when a signal is input from the third storage state monitoring sensor 52). By performing the control, the third scale portion 42 is caused to blink.

  That is, when it is detected by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 that the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42, the third scale unit 42 flashes and emits light. To come.

  According to the present embodiment, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the first storage state (that is, when the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a is less than 400, see FIG. 5 (a)). Is the case where only the first scale portion 40 flashes and the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the second storage state (that is, when the number of storage balls in the upper plate 5a is less than 200, see FIG. 5 (b)). When the first scale portion 40 and the second scale portion 41 flash and emit light, the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the third storage state (that is, when the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a is less than ten, FIG. ))), All the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42) flash and emit light.

  As described above, the storage detection means for detecting the game ball located on the scale portion, and the sub CPU that performs control for emitting the scale portion in a predetermined light emission mode (flashing light emission) when the storage detection means does not detect the game ball. According to this configuration including (light emission control means) 301, when the stored ball in the upper plate 5 a falls below the number of game balls indicated by the scale portion, the scale portion emits light in a predetermined light emission mode. Become. For example, when the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a falls below 400, the first scale unit 40 emits light.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale, it is easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the storing means.

  The voice control means is means for performing voice output control of the speakers (voice output means) 6a and 6b. Specifically, the voice control means detects the game ball when the storage detection means (the first storage state monitoring sensor 50, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and the third storage state monitoring sensor 52) detects a game ball. Control is performed to output the corresponding sound from the speakers (sound output means) 6a, 6b.

  For example, the voice control means is configured such that when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the third storage state (see FIG. 5C) (the game ball 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52). When it is detected that the number is less than the number of game balls (10) indicated by the third scale unit 42), the voice control circuit 306 is instructed to control the sound from the speakers 6a and 6b. The voice “the number of stored balls has cut 10” is output (see FIG. 12).

  That is, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the third storage state (10 or less), the fact is notified.

  In addition, the voice control means is configured such that when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the second storage state (see FIG. 5B) (the game ball 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52). It is detected that the number has reached the number of game balls (10) indicated by the third scale unit 42, and the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 is the second scale unit. 41 (when it is detected that the number is less than the number of game balls (200) indicated by 41), the voice control circuit 306 is instructed to perform voice control from the speakers 6a and 6b. Output 200 ".

  That is, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the second storage state (200 pieces or less), the fact is notified.

  Furthermore, the voice control means is configured such that the game ball 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the first storage state (see FIG. 5A). The number of gaming balls 400 detected by the second scale unit 41 is detected to have reached the number of gaming balls (200), and the number of gaming balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 is the first scale. When it is detected that the number of gaming balls indicated by the unit 40 is lower than 400), the voice control circuit 306 is instructed to perform voice control from the speakers 6a and 6b. The number is cut off 400 ".

  That is, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the first storage state (400 pieces or less), the fact is notified.

  As described above, when the storage detection means (the first storage state monitoring sensor 50, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and the third storage state monitoring sensor 52) detects the game ball, the sound corresponding to the detection is output to the speaker ( According to the present embodiment including the sub CPU (voice control means) 301 that performs control to be output from the voice output means) 6a and 6b, the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are scale parts (the first scale part 40 and the second scale part). When the number of game balls indicated by the unit 41 and the third scale unit 42) is below, the sound corresponding to the detection is output from the speakers (sound output means) 6a and 6b.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a retaining means.

  The display control circuit 305 executes a display such as a decorative symbol variation display in the display area 21a in response to an instruction from the sub CPU 301 (an instruction based on the effect data set in a predetermined work area of the work RAM 303). The image data ROM 305b for storing various image data and the corresponding image data are extracted from the image data ROM 305b in accordance with the control from the sub CPU 301, and the decorative pattern change display and effects are performed based on the extracted image data. A VDP (Video Display Processor) 305a that generates data for executing image display and the like, and a D / A conversion circuit (D / A converter) 305d that converts display image data generated by the VDP 305a into an analog signal. It has.

  The image data ROM 305b stores image data for causing the liquid crystal display device 21 to display an image. Each image data includes a plurality of pixel data (data in dot units) necessary to display each image data in the display area 21a.

  Here, a VRAM 305c having two buffer areas is connected to the VDP 305a. The VDP 305a performs the following processing when generating data for executing display in the display area 21a based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301 transmitted every predetermined time (for example, 1/30 second). The VDP 305a reads predetermined image data from the image data ROM 305b, develops it to the VRAM 305c, and reads the decompressed image data from the VRAM 305c. Specifically, the VDP 305a performs expansion processing on one buffer area provided in the VRAM 305c, and reads image data that has already been expanded from the other buffer area. Next, the VDP 305 a switches between a buffer area to be expanded and a buffer area to be read based on an instruction from the sub CPU 301. The VDP 305a displays the read image data on the display area 21a via the D / A conversion circuit 305d.

  In this embodiment, a VRAM is used as a storage device for developing image data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other storage devices may be used. For example, an SDRAM that can read and write data at high speed may be used.

  Speakers 6 a and 6 b are connected to the audio control circuit 306. The sound control circuit 306 also generates a sound source IC (not shown) that generates a sound effect original signal, a sound source data ROM (not shown) that is connected to the sound source IC and stores sound effects, and amplifies the original signal output from the sound source IC. Has no amplifier etc. The sound control circuit 306 generates a sound signal based on the sound source data stored in the sound source data ROM based on the control of the sub CPU (voice control means) 301. The speakers 6a and 6b generate sound based on the input sound signal.

  The lamp control circuit 307 includes a decoration lamp 39a (the decoration lamp is a general term for lamps and LEDs provided in various places of the gaming machine 1), a first scale section 40, a second scale section 41, and a third scale. The scale part 42 is connected. The lamp control circuit 307 generates a signal based on the control of the sub CPU (light emission control means) 301. The decorative lamp 39a, the first scale section 40, the second scale section 41, and the third scale section 42 perform lighting display and the like based on this input signal.

  As described above, the speakers 8a and 8b, the decoration lamp 39a, the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, the third scale unit 42, and the liquid crystal display device 21 are included in the effect data set by the sub CPU 301 (control program). Based on the performance.

  Note that each process in the gaming machine 1 is controlled by the main control circuit 200 and the sub control circuit 300, but the main control circuit 200 processes all or part of the processes controlled by the sub control circuit 300. Alternatively, the sub control circuit 300 may process all or part of the processing controlled by the main control circuit 200. For example, the main CPU 201 may have the functions of the light emission control means and the sound control means.

  [Production mode list]

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an effect mode list. As shown in the figure, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the third storage state (see FIG. 5C) (the game ball 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52). When it is detected that the number is less than the number of game balls (10) indicated by the third scale portion 42), the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, and the third scale portion 42 are flashed. At the same time, the sound “the number of stored balls has cut 10” is output from the speakers 6a, 6b.

  When the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the second storage state (see FIG. 5B) (the number of the game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 is the third scale portion 42) It is detected that the number of game balls indicated by (10) has been reached, and the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 is the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41 ( When it is detected that the number is less than 200), the first scale portion 40 and the second scale portion 41 emit flashing light and the speaker 6a, 6b "" Was output.

  When the storage state of the upper plate 5a becomes the first storage state (see FIG. 5A) (the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 determines the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the second scale portion) The number of gaming balls indicated by 41 is detected, and the number of gaming balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a by the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 is the number of gaming balls indicated by the first scale unit 40. When it is detected that the number is below (400), the first scale unit 40 flashes and emits a sound, and the speaker 6a, 6b outputs the voice “the number of stored balls has dropped to 400”. Is done.

  Thus, in this Embodiment, the aspect of the effect performed is changed according to the storage state in the top plate 5a.

  [System timer interrupt processing]

  The sub CPU 301 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds), and executes the following system timer interrupt process in response to this. FIG. 4A is a flowchart showing a system timer interrupt processing procedure executed so as to interrupt the main processing by the sub CPU 301 at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 milliseconds).

  In step S310, a process for saving each register is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 301 performs a process of saving values used in the program being executed stored in each register (storage area) of the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to step S320.

  In step S320, timer update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 301 executes a process of updating the remaining variation display time of the decorative symbols. If this process ends, the process moves to step S330.

  In step S330, a storage state switch check process is performed. The storage state switch check process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to step S335.

  In step S335, a storage state detection process is performed. The storage state detection process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to step S340.

  In step S340, processing for restoring each register is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 301 performs processing for restoring the value saved in step S310 to each register. If this process ends, the process moves to step S350.

  In step S350, an interrupt permission process is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, and the address before the interruption is restored.

  [Storage status switch check processing]

  Next, the storage state switch check process in step S330 (FIG. 8) will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 9 is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the storage state switch check process which concerns on this Embodiment.

  In step S330-1, the sub CPU 301 confirms whether or not a detection signal from the third storage state monitoring sensor 52 has been detected. When the sub CPU 301 detects the detection signal, the sub CPU 301 determines that the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the third storage state (see FIG. 5C), and proceeds to the process of step S330-2. On the other hand, when the detection signal is not detected, the process proceeds to step S330-3.

  In step S330-2, the sub CPU 301 indicates that the storage state of the upper plate 5a has become the third storage state (the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42 ( In order to indicate that the number is less than 10), a value (03) indicating the third storage state is set in the storage state flag. However, when the value (03) indicating the third storage state is already set in the storage state flag, this step is skipped. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S330-3, the sub CPU 301 confirms whether or not a detection signal from the second storage state monitoring sensor 51 has been detected. Further, when the sub CPU 301 detects the detection signal, the sub CPU 301 determines that the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the second storage state (see FIG. 5B), and proceeds to the process of step S330-4. On the other hand, when the detection signal is not detected, the process proceeds to step S330-5.

  In step S330-4, the sub CPU 301 indicates that the storage state of the upper plate 5a has become the second storage state (the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42 ( 10) and a value (02) indicating the second storage state is set in the storage state flag to indicate that the number is less than the number (200) indicated by the second scale portion 41). However, if the value (02) indicating the second storage state is already set in the storage state flag, this step is skipped. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S330-5, the main CPU 201 confirms whether or not a detection signal from the first storage state monitoring sensor 50 is detected. When the main CPU 201 detects the detection signal, the main CPU 201 determines that the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the first storage state (see FIG. 5A), and proceeds to the process of step S330-6. . On the other hand, when the detection signal is not detected, the process proceeds to step S330-7.

  In step S330-6, the sub CPU 301 indicates that the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the first storage state (the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a is the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41 ( 200)) and a value (01) indicating the first storage state is set in the storage state flag to indicate that the number is less than the number (400) indicated by the first scale portion 40. However, if the value (01) indicating the first storage state is already set in the storage state flag, this step is skipped. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S330-7, the sub CPU 301 sets a value (00) indicating a sufficient state in the stored state flag in order to indicate that the stored state of the upper plate 5a has been satisfied. However, if a value (00) indicating a sufficient state is already set in the storage state flag, this step is skipped. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  [Storage status notification process]

  Next, the storage state notification process in step S335 (FIG. 8) will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 10 is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the storage state alerting | reporting process which concerns on this Embodiment.

  In step S335-1, the sub CPU 301 determines whether or not the value of the storage state flag has been changed in the storage state switch check process (FIG. 9). As a result of this determination, when the value of the flag during the storage state is changed (when the storage state in the upper plate 5a is changed), the process proceeds to step S335-2. On the other hand, if the value of the storage state flag has not been changed, this subroutine is terminated.

  In Step 335-2, the sub CPU 301 confirms whether or not the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the third storage state (see FIG. 5C). Then, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the third storage state (when the value (03) indicating the third storage state is set in the storage state flag), the sub CPU 301 stores in the upper plate 5a. In order to notify that the number of game balls 400 that have been played is less than the number (10) of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42, the process proceeds to step S335-3. On the other hand, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is not the third storage state (when the value (03) indicating the third storage state is not set in the storage state flag), the process proceeds to step S335-5.

  In step S335-3, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control unit sets effect data for causing the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, and the third scale unit 42 to flash and emit light in the work area of the work RAM 303. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means controls the lamp control circuit 307 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the 1st scale part 40, the 2nd scale part 41, and the 3rd scale part 42 come to blink. After this process ends, the process proceeds to step S335-4.

  In step S335-4, the sub CPU 301 serving as the voice control unit sets effect data for notifying that the number of stored balls has dropped to ten in the work area of the work RAM 303. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as a sound control unit controls the sound control circuit 306 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the sound “the number of stored balls has cut 10” is output from the speakers 6a and 6b. After this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  According to the present embodiment in which the above steps S335-3 and S335-4 are executed, it is easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls stored in the upper plate 5a falls below the number of game balls indicated by the third scale portion 42. Therefore, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In step 335-5, the sub CPU 301 confirms whether or not the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the second storage state (see FIG. 5B). Then, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the second storage state (when the value (02) indicating the second storage state is set in the storage state flag), the sub CPU 301 stores in the upper plate 5a. Notifying that the number of game balls 400 that have been reached has reached the number of game balls (10 pieces) indicated by the third scale portion 42 and that the number of game balls 400 indicated by the second scale portion 41 has fallen below (200 pieces). Therefore, the process proceeds to step S335-6. On the other hand, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is not the second storage state (when the value (02) indicating the second storage state is not set in the storage state flag), the process proceeds to step S335-8.

  In step S335-6, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means causes the first scale unit 40 and the second scale unit 41 to flash and emit the effect data for turning off the third scale unit 42 in the work RAM 303. Set to area. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means controls the lamp control circuit 307 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the first graduation part 40 and the second graduation part 41 emit flashing light and the third graduation part 42 is turned off. After this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S335-7.

  In step S335-7, the sub CPU 301, which is a voice control means, sets effect data for notifying that the number of stored balls has dropped below 200 in the work area of the work RAM 303. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as a sound control unit controls the sound control circuit 306 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the sound “the number of stored balls has cut 200” is output from the speakers 6a and 6b. After this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  According to the present embodiment in which the above steps S335-6 and S335-7 are executed, it is determined whether or not the number of game balls in the upper plate 5a exceeds the number of game balls indicated by the third scale portion 42, and the upper plate 5a. Since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the second scale section 41, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In step 335-8, the sub CPU 301 confirms whether or not the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the first storage state (see FIG. 5A). Then, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is the first storage state (when the value (01) indicating the first storage state is set in the storage state flag), the sub CPU 301 stores in the upper plate 5a. It is notified that the number of played game balls 400 has reached the number of game balls (200 pieces) indicated by the second scale unit 42 and is less than the number of game balls (400 pieces) shown by the first scale unit 40. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S335-9. On the other hand, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a is not the first storage state (when the value (01) indicating the first storage state is not set in the storage state flag), the process proceeds to step S335-11.

  In step S335-9, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means causes the first scale unit 40 to flash and emit the effect data for turning off the second scale unit 41 and the third scale unit 42 in the work RAM 303. Set to area. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means controls the lamp control circuit 307 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the first scale unit 40 flashes and the second scale unit 41 and the third scale unit 42 are turned off. After this process is completed, the process proceeds to step S335-10.

  In step S335-10, the sub CPU 301, which is a voice control unit, sets effect data for notifying that the number of stored balls has dropped to 400 in the work area of the work RAM 303. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as a sound control unit controls the sound control circuit 306 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the voice “the number of stored balls has been reduced to 400” is output from the speakers 6a and 6b. After this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  According to the present embodiment in which the above steps S335-9 and S335-10 are executed, it is determined whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a exceed the number of game balls indicated by the second scale unit 41, and the upper plate 5a. Since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the number of game balls indicated by the first scale unit 40 is less than the number of game balls indicated by the first scale portion 40, it becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In step S335-11, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control unit sets effect data for turning off the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, and the third scale unit 42 in the work area of the work RAM 303. In this case, the sub CPU 301 serving as the light emission control means controls the lamp control circuit 307 according to the effect data.

  In this case, the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42 are turned off. After this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, this is merely illustrative of the present invention and does not particularly limit the present invention.

  For example, although the three scale parts (the 1st scale part 40, the 2nd scale part 41, and the 3rd scale part 42) were formed in the upper plate 5a of this embodiment, the number of scale parts to be formed Is not limited to this, and may be two or less, or may be four or more.

  Further, the positions at which the scale portions (the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, and the third scale portion 42) are formed are not limited to the positions shown in FIG. 4, but are formed at other positions. May be. In this case, the number of game balls indicated by the scale portion varies depending on the position to be formed.

  Furthermore, the scale portions (first scale portion 40, second scale portion 41, and third scale portion 42) in the present embodiment are formed on the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a as shown in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be formed at other positions. For example, it may be formed on the inner wall 5aa of the upper plate 5a, or may be formed on the surface side of the upper plate 5a. In this case, when the stored balls in the upper plate 5a reach the scale part in the front-rear direction, the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a reaches the number of game balls indicated by the scale unit.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the first scale portion 600 composed of the numerical value portion 600b of the bar portions 600a and 400, the second scale portion 610 composed of the numerical value portion 610b of the bar portions 610a and 200, and the bar portions 620a and 10 In the case where the third scale portion 620 including the numerical value portion 620b is formed on the surface side of the upper plate 5a, when the storage ball in the upper plate 5a reaches the longitudinal direction of the first scale portion 600, the storage in the upper plate 5a is performed. The number of balls has reached 400, and when the stored balls in the upper plate 5a reach the longitudinal direction of the second scale portion 610, the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has reached 200, and in the upper plate 5a When the stored balls reach the longitudinal direction of the third scale portion 620, the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has reached ten.

  Moreover, although the storage detection means in this Embodiment has detected the storage state of the top plate 5a based on the light reception condition of light-receiving part 50b, 51b, 52b, it is not restricted to this, It stores by another method. The state may be detected. For example, the storage detection means may be configured to detect the storage state of the upper plate 5a by detecting the total weight of game balls stored in the upper plate 5a. In this case, for example, when the detected weight is smaller than a predetermined value (for example, when the total weight of the game balls stored in the upper plate 5a is less than 10 game balls), the storage in the upper plate 5a. It can also be determined that the number of balls is below the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine has been shown. Of course. In this case, medals are used as game media instead of game balls.

  Moreover, the light emission mode of the scale unit (the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, the third scale unit 42) and the sound output mode of the speakers (sound output means) 6a, 6b are examples shown in the production mode list. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, the third scale part 42) may always emit light, and the speakers (sound output means) 6a, 6b A melody or sound effect corresponding to the storage state of the dish 5a may be output.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when the storage state of the upper plate 5a changes, an image indicating the change may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 21 under the control of the sub CPU 301.

  Moreover, the storage detection means (the 1st storage state monitoring sensor 50, the 2nd storage state monitoring sensor 51, the 3rd storage state monitoring sensor 52) in this Embodiment is a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) from a light emission part. The game balls indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42) are the number of game balls 400 stored in the upper plate 5a when the light reaches the light receiving part. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the light from the light emitting unit stops reaching the light receiving unit, the predetermined signal is sent to the sub CPU 301. The information may be transmitted to the sub CPU 301. In this case, the sub CPU 301 is configured to transmit a predetermined signal to the sub CPU 301. However, the sub CPU 301 is not limited to this, and immediately after the light from the transmission light emitting unit does not reach the light receiving unit from the storage detection unit. A predetermined signal may be transmitted to the sub CPU 301. In this case, the sub CPU 301 may immediately detect the signal transmitted from the storage detection unit, or when the predetermined signal is continuously received for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) or more. The signal from the storage detection means may be detected.

  In the present invention, the scale unit (the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, and the third scale unit 42) is provided with the same function as the speakers (sound output means) 6a and 6b. May be. In this case, when the storage detection unit detects a game ball, the sub CPU (voice control unit) 301 performs control to output a sound corresponding to the detection from a speaker provided in the scale unit.

  According to this, when the stored ball in the upper plate 5a falls below the number of game balls indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, the third scale part 42), the scale part (the first scale part) The sound corresponding to the detection is output from the first scale section 40, the second scale section 41, and the third scale section 42).

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42), It becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the numerical value portions 40b, 41b, and 42b are formed on the left side of the bar portions 40a, 41a, and 42a, respectively. It may be like this.

  Moreover, the shape of the 1st scale part 40, the 2nd scale part 41, and the 3rd scale part 42 is not restricted to the example demonstrated in this Embodiment, Other shapes may be sufficient. Furthermore, although the numerical value parts 40b, 41b, and 42b were in the shape of Arabic numerals, the number of game balls that can be stored in the area from the ball passage 65 to the bar parts 40a, 41a, and 42a is grasped. Any shape is possible. For example, the numerical parts 40b, 41b, 42b may be in the form of Chinese numerals or other shapes.

  As described above, the upper plate (storage means) 5a of the present embodiment has the bottom surface 5ab inclined toward the ball passage 65, and the scale portions (the first scale portion 40 and the second scale portion 41 at predetermined positions). , A third scale portion 42) is provided.

  This scale part (the 1st scale part 40, the 2nd scale part 41, the 3rd scale part 42) is the scale part (the 1st scale part 40, the 2nd scale part) from the ball passage 65 among the regions in the upper plate 5a. 41, the number of game balls that can be stored in the area up to the third scale portion 42). Therefore, for example, when the game ball 400 is stored from the ball passage 65 to the scale unit (the first scale unit 40, the second scale unit 41, the third scale unit 42), the game balls stored in the upper plate 5a The number can be estimated to be close to the number indicated by the scale part (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42).

  In other words, according to the present invention, the upper plate 5a has a scale unit (a first scale unit 40, a second scale unit 41, and a third scale unit 42 that can estimate the number of game balls stored in the upper plate 5a. ) Is provided, it becomes easy to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a. In this case, the player can refill the upper plate 5a with more appropriate game balls, and can refill the upper plate 5a with his / her own discretion. .

  According to this, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which the player can control the progress of the game and can easily grasp the remaining amount of the stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  Further, according to the present embodiment in which the scale portion is provided on the bottom surface 5ab of the upper plate 5a, the game is performed up to the number indicated by the scale portions (the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, the third scale portion 42). When the ball is stored, the game ball is positioned on the scale part (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42).

  According to this, since it becomes easy to determine whether or not the number of stored balls in the upper plate 5a has reached the number indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42), It becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment in which at least a part of the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, the third scale part 42) is provided so as to be able to emit light, 1 scale part 40, 2nd scale part 41, 3rd scale part 42) can be made conspicuous. According to this, grasping | ascertaining of the residual amount of the storage ball in the upper plate 5a becomes easier.

  In addition, storage detection means (a first storage state monitoring sensor 50, a second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and a third storage state monitoring sensor 52) for detecting a game ball located on the scale portion, and the storage detection means detects the game ball. This embodiment is provided with a sub CPU (light emission control means) 301 for performing control to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode when the scale part (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, the third scale part 42) is not detected. According to the form, when the number of game balls indicated by the scale portion (the first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, the third scale portion 42) falls below the number of game balls in the upper plate 5a, the scale portion ( The first scale portion 40, the second scale portion 41, and the third scale portion 42) emit light in a predetermined light emission mode (for example, flashing light emission).

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42), It becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In addition, when the storage detection means (the first storage state monitoring sensor 50, the second storage state monitoring sensor 51, and the third storage state monitoring sensor 52) detects a game ball, a sound corresponding to the detection is output from a speaker (audio output). Means) According to the present embodiment including the sub CPU (voice control means) 301 that performs control to be output from the 6a and 6b, the stored ball in the upper plate 5a is a scale part (first scale part 40, second scale part 41). When the number of game balls indicated by the third scale unit 42) is below, the sound corresponding to the detection is output from the speakers (sound output means) 6a and 6b.

  In this case, since it becomes easier to determine whether or not the stored balls in the upper plate 5a are less than the number of game balls indicated by the scale parts (the first scale part 40, the second scale part 41, and the third scale part 42), It becomes easier to grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment in which a plurality of scale portions are provided, it is possible to more accurately grasp the remaining amount of stored balls in the upper plate 5a.

  In the above description, the case where the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine in which the main body of the ball and ball game machine is attached to the gaming table is described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a pachislot gaming machine (Slot machine), sparrow ball, smart ball, or various game machines installed in a game center can be applied to various game machines.

It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the game machine which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a disassembled perspective view of the gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a front view which shows the game board of the gaming machine shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which looked at the top plate which concerns on this Embodiment from upper direction. It is explanatory drawing which looked at the top plate which concerns on this Embodiment from upper direction. (A) is sectional drawing along the AA line of Fig.4 (a), (b) is sectional drawing along the BB line of FIG.4 (b). It is a block diagram which shows the control system of the gaming machine shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the system timer interruption process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the storage state switch check process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the storage state alerting | reporting process which concerns on this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the production | presentation aspect list which concerns on the form of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the audio | voice output aspect of the speaker which concerns on the form of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of an upper plate.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine (game machine)
2 gaming board 2a gaming area 3 gaming machine body 3a body frame 3b outer frame 5 storage section 5a upper plate (storage means)
5aa inner wall 5ab bottom 5b lower plate 5bb ball release lever 5bd oblong hole
6 rail 6a, 6b Speaker (sound output means)
7 Launch handle 8 Shutter button 9a Glass door 9b Glass plate 10 Ashtray 12 General winning device 13 Passing gate 15 Large winning device 15a Door 17 Out port 18 Start winning device 18a, 18b Variable wing 18c Receiving port 19Se Large winning device switch 19Sb General winning Device switch 19Sa Passing gate switch 19a Start winning device switch 21 Liquid crystal display device (variable display means)
21a Display area 21b Decorative symbol display area 22a Left reel portion 22b Middle reel portion 22c Right reel portion 22 Special symbol start memory indicator 23 Normal symbol passage memory indicator 24 Special symbol indicator (special symbol display means)
25a, 25b Normal symbol display 26 Illumination unit 39a Decoration lamp 40 First scale part (scale part)
40a Bar part 40b Numerical value part 41 Second scale part (scale part)
41a Bar part 41b Numerical value part 42 Third scale part (scale part)
42a Bar part 42b Numerical value part 50 1st storage state monitoring sensor (storage detection means)
50a Light emitting part 50b Light receiving part 51 Second storage state monitoring sensor (storage detection means)
51a Light emission part 51b Light reception part 52 3rd storage state monitoring sensor (storage detection means)
52a Light emitting unit 52b Light receiving unit 65 Ball passage 70a Dispensing control circuit 70b Launch control circuit 71S Movable member solenoid 72S Big winning device solenoid 74S Backup clear switch 81 Card unit 82 Dispensing device 90 Launching device (launching means)
100 1st discharge port 110 2nd discharge port 200 Main control circuit 201 Main CPU
202 Main ROM
203 Main RAM
204 Initial reset circuit 205 I / O port 206 Command output port 300 Sub control circuit 301 Sub CPU
302 Program ROM
303 Work RAM
304 Command input port 305 Display control circuit 305a VDP
305b Image data ROM
305c VRAM
305d D / A conversion circuit 306 Audio control circuit 307 Lamp control circuit 400 Game ball (game medium)
410 dollar box (storage device)
600 1st scale part (scale part)
600a Bar part 600b Numerical value part 610 Second scale part (scale part)
610a Bar part 610b Numerical value part 620 Third scale part (scale part)
620a Bar part 620b Numerical value part

Claims (7)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball rolls;
Launching means for launching a game ball located in the launch area toward the game area;
A ball path for guiding a game ball to the launch area;
Reserving means capable of temporarily storing a game ball which is provided continuously with the ball path and inclined with respect to the ball path and which is launched by the launching means;
A scale provided at a predetermined position in the storage means;
A game ball payout means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls to the storage means when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
The scale part indicates the number of game balls that can be stored in the area from the ball passage to the scale part, in the storage unit.
A gaming machine characterized by that. The scale portion is provided on the bottom surface of the storage means.
The gaming machine according to claim 1. At least a part of the scale portion is provided so as to emit light,
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that. Retention detection means capable of detecting a game ball located in the scale portion,
A light emission control means for controlling light emission of the scale part,
The light emission control unit performs control to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode when the storage detection unit does not detect a game ball.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein Audio output means for outputting audio;
Voice control means for performing voice output control of the voice output means,
The sound control means performs control to output a sound corresponding to the detection from the sound output means when the storage detection means detects a game ball.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The audio output means is provided in the scale part.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that:   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the scale parts are provided.

Images