JP2010527714A - Pachinko game electronic system and game method - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic or semi-electronic game system and method for playing a “pachinko” type game is disclosed. The game system includes a processor for promoting and controlling the game, a display for displaying the game to the player, and an input means connected to the processor for the player to control one or more aspects of the game. It has. Upon receiving a command from the input means, the processor performs a continuous release of the object (310) into the game area. Each object (310) has predetermined object characteristics. Each game area has game characteristics and includes a plurality of interactive objects (314, 318, 320, 322, etc.). Each interactive object (314, 318, 320, 322, etc.) also has predetermined characteristics and is set to affect the trajectory of the emitted object (310). The processor is configured to change a characteristic of at least one of the emitted object (310) or the game area.

Description

  The present invention relates generally to electronic or semi-electronic game systems and methods, and more particularly to electronic or semi-electronic systems and methods for playing in “pachinko” type games.

  A “maze-pachinko” type game, also referred to as “pinball”, generally includes a substantially vertical game area (game area) including an upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion. One or more ball bearings are released from the top of the game. Under gravity, the released ball bearing falls toward the bottom of the game area including a plurality of collection containers. The back plate (back plane) arranged vertically in the middle of the game area has a set of pins distributed in the space between the ball bearing discharge point and the collection container. Each falling ball bearing hits at least some of the pins, and the resulting deflection determines the path and destination of the ball bearing. Points are awarded depending on whether the ball bearing has reached the container and on which specific container the ball bearing has reached. Although the shape, size, and number of pins, ball bearings, and containers can vary between different game machines, the general game layout is generally the same for a given game machine. This is exactly the case with the existing electronic version of this game that simulates the entire game environment on the screen of the display device. With this repetitive game environment, the outcome of a game played on a given game machine can be somewhat predictable, and the general prize distribution is a normally distributed bell curve. High prizes are very rarely given to players.

  Prior attempts to incorporate some changes into the game were limited to the “machine” version of the game. These attempts included introducing one or more openings in the backplate of the gaming machine. Further, one or more pins arranged so as to protrude from the back of the game machine are set so as to slide out through the respective openings in the back plate but not into the game area. In order to change the game, skilled technicians were called at predetermined intervals or upon request to “drive” one or more of these pins that slid into the game area through their respective openings. The emergence of new pins, or their subsequent removal, will cause some change in the game experience, but this is very cumbersome and is a cost-effective way to do so.

  Thus, a relatively simple and efficient way to create more diverse games and allow game vendors (game players) to give a wider variety of awards, thereby increasing the value of entertainment given to players. It is desirable to find out.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an electronic or semi-electronic game system for playing a “pachinko” type game is provided, the system comprising:
a) a processor for promoting and controlling the game;
b) a display for displaying this game to the player;
c) input means connected to the processor and used by the player to control one or more aspects of the game;
Upon receiving a command (instruction) from the input means, the processor executes continuous release of objects into the game area, each object has a predetermined object characteristic, the game area has a game characteristic, Each interacting object has a predetermined characteristic and is set to affect the trajectory of the emitted object, the processor changes the game characteristic of the emitted object or the game characteristic of the game area It is configured to let you.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for realizing a game by a computer using a game system, the game system including a processor for promoting and controlling the game, and the game for a player. A display device for displaying and input means connected to the processor and used by a player to control one or more aspects of the game, the method using the processor:
a) A step of defining a game area to be displayed on the display device, the game area being located at the top of the graphic screen of the display device and at the bottom of the graphic screen It consists of a collection area and an interaction area located between the start area and the collection area. The start area includes a plurality of start positions for releasing objects selected by the player. Including at least one collection container, the collection area having collection characteristics determined by at least one of the number, size, and position of the at least one collection container, and the interaction area having predetermined characteristics Including a plurality of interacting objects, wherein the interacting objects are such that the falling object is the interacting object. It is set to simulate changing the trajectory of the falling object by interacting with the falling object when passing through the area, and the interaction characteristic of the interaction area is the number of interacting objects, A step defined by at least one of a position and a characteristic;
b) simulating the continuous release of objects, each object being released from its starting position and falling towards the collection area;
c) calculating the trajectory and final destination of each released object based on the start position determined by the player and the interaction characteristics of the interaction area, and displaying the movement of the object on the display device; When;
d) Based on the calculated final destination, awards and / or bonuses depending on whether the at least one collection container has collected each falling object and which collection container has collected. And promote the step of giving points (bonus points)
The method further comprises changing at least one of object properties, interaction properties, and / or collection properties.

  Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed relating to an executable computer program for playing an electronic game and a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having recorded thereon the computer program.

  Several aspects of the prior art and one or more embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

It is a schematic block diagram of the game system which can implement the structure of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the other game system which can implement the structure of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of a game device used in the game system of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a graphic screen displayed on the display of the game system of FIGS. 1A and 1B during game play. It is a flowchart showing the implementation method by the computer for performing the electronic or semi-electronic game of this invention. 1 is a diagram schematically representing a semi-electronic game system of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the bonus reel type | mold game implement | achieved on the game system of FIG. 1A and 1B. It is a figure which shows the other display screen of the bonus reel type | mold game implement | achieved on the game system of FIG. 1A and 1B. 1B is a flowchart illustrating a method of executing a reel game as a result of the ball bearing reaching the container in the game system of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

(Detailed description including best mode)
When referring to steps and / or features having the same reference number in one or more of the drawings, these steps and / or features perform the same function or operation for the purposes of this description, unless they appear to be contrary. Have.

  Also, the description contained in the “Background” section and the above description regarding the configuration of the prior art relate to descriptions of documents or devices that form known knowledge through respective publications and / or uses. These should not be construed as an expression by the inventor or patent applicant of the present invention in any way that these documents or devices form part of the common general knowledge in the present technology.

  A game that can be played in various environments will be described below. The main application of this game is a betting environment, where the game is played on a dedicated game machine when making a bet. However, the game is also played on a home (home) computer or other electronic device such as a mobile phone or handheld game machine. The game is also played in a network environment, where two or more gaming machines, computers, or other electronic devices are connected together. Some of these environments are described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2.

  FIG. 1A shows a game system 100A, and the game system 100A includes a game machine 101A used when a player plays a game described below. The game machine 101A includes a housing 201A having display means in the form of a video display device 214A, which displays one or more graphic screens (eg, 105) for games played on the game machine 101A. To the user. The housing 201A also has an input device in the form of a keypad 202A, which includes one or more buttons that are used by the player to control one or more aspects of the game.

  A credit input means in the form of a coin insertion device 106A and a bill insertion means 107A is also included in the housing 201A and allows the player to play the game by depositing credits. A coin tray (a tray) 108A is also typically included in the housing 201A to allow a payout to be paid to the player.

  In the game system 100A, the game machine 101A is connected to a communication network 222A known as a local area network (LAN) via a connection unit 223A. Alternatively, the game machine 101A can be a stand-alone (independent type). As shown in FIG. 1A, the LAN 222A is coupled to a wide area network (WAN) 220A such as the Internet or a private WAN via a connection 221A. The game machine 101A can also be directly coupled to the WAN 220A via the connection unit 221A.

  The network 222A includes one or more other game machines 102A and 103A connected thereto. These other game machines are generally similar to game machine 101A, but can be configured to implement different games. These other game machines can also be connected to the network 220A.

  A server computer 104A used for monitoring the game machine 101A is also connected to the network 222A. The server 104A is used to monitor the amount bet on the game machine 101A during a period, the amount paid on the game machine 101A during a period, and any obstacles on the game machine 101A. The server 104A can also be used to put the game machine 101A into a function disabled (disabled) state or a function enabled (enabled) state.

  Hereinafter, the game machine 101A will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1B shows another game system 100B. The game system 100B includes a stand-alone “personal” computer 103B that a player uses to play a game. The personal computer 101B is an IBM-PC (registered trademark) or compatible computer, Sun Microsystems' Sparcstation (registered trademark), Apple Computer Mac (registered trademark), or a desktop type, laptop developed from these. It can be a mold, a notebook, or one of similar computer systems including its handheld version. As shown in FIG. 1, the computer 101B includes a casing 201B and display means in the form of a video display device for displaying a screen such as a screen 105 of a game being played. The computer 101B also includes an input device in the form of a keyboard 202B with one or more buttons that the player uses to play the game. The input means for the computer 101B also includes a mouse / pointer device (instruction device) 203B.

  The computer 101B can be connected to a local area network (LAN) 222B via the connection unit 223B. LAN 222B can be coupled to a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet or a private WAN via connection 224B. Computer 101B is also shown as being directly coupled to WAN 220B via connection 221B. Within system 100B, WAN 220B typically comprises one or more other computers 102B and 103B similar to computer 101B connected to this WAN, which are used by others to play games. Can do. Furthermore, such a computer can also be connected to LAN 222A.

  The remote server 104B is also connected to the WAN 220B. However, in contrast to server 100A of system 100A, server 104B of system 100B can be used to control the execution of one or more games that are playing on game system 100B. For example, the server 104B can download one or more graphic objects to the computer 101B for a game that the corresponding player is playing, which is one or more of the games that are playing on the computer 101B. With a display list for displaying downloaded graphic objects for a screen (eg 105). In this example, the server 104B can control the game by downloading another display list to the computer 101B while the game is played by the player and executed by the computer 101B.

  In the system 100B, instead of credit depositing means in the form of the coin insertion device 106A and the bill collecting machine 107A, the credit for the player to play the game is deposited by creating an account with the game provider (provider). This provider may or may not be an administrator of the server 104B. For example, the player can prepare his / her credit card and contact the game provider with the details via the computer 101B and the network 220B. In this example, while the player plays a game on the computer 101B, the player's account is debited and credited (credit) depending on the degree to which the player bets and wins, respectively. )

  Hereinafter, the computer 101B will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

  The game machine 101A and the computer 101B have the same computer hardware architecture. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, hereinafter, the game machine 101A and the computer 101B are collectively referred to as a “game device” 100. Similarly, hereinafter, components of the game machine 101A and the computer 101B, for example, the casings 201A and 201B, and the displays 214A and 214B, respectively, unless otherwise specifically referred to. And display 204 collectively. Further, hereinafter, other components such as WANs 220A and 220B and LANs 222A and 222B are collectively referred to as WAN 220 and LAN 222, for example. Finally, in the following, the game systems 100A and 100B are collectively referred to as the game system 100 unless otherwise specified.

  A game played on either the game system 100A or 100B can be realized as software such as one or more application programs that can be executed by the game system 100. In particular, the game can be executed by instructions in software executed by the game system 100. These instructions can be formed as one or more code modules, each for performing one or more specific tasks. As will be described in more detail below, the software can also be divided into separate parts, where one or more parts and the corresponding code modules execute a game, and one or more other parts and The corresponding code module manages the user interface between the initial part (s) and the game player. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, this user interface can be formed by one or more screens, such as screen 105.

  This software can be stored, for example, on a computer readable medium including a storage device described below. The software can be loaded into the game system 100 from this computer readable medium and executed by the game system 100. A computer readable medium having such software or program recorded on it is a computer program product. Use of this computer program product in gaming system 100 preferably provides an advantageous apparatus for implementing the games described herein.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game apparatus 101 includes an input device 202. The input device 202 is formed by the keypad 202A when the game device 101 is the game machine 101A, and is formed by the keyboard 202B when the game device 101 is formed by the computer 101B. The computer 101B also includes a mouse / pointer device 203. The game apparatus 101 also includes an output device including a display device 214 and a speaker 217. In one configuration, the display device 214 can be a touch screen.

  When the game apparatus 101 is the game machine 101A, the game apparatus 100 also includes a coin insertion device 106A, a bill insertion device 107A, and a coin dispensing device 218 shown in FIG.

  An external modem (modem) transceiver device 216 can be used by the game device 101 to communicate with the communication network 220 via the connection unit 221. If connection 221 is a telephone line, modem 216 may be a conventional “dial-up” modem. Alternatively, if the connection unit 221 is a large capacity (for example, cable) connection, the modem 216 can be a broadband modem. A wireless modem may be used to communicate wirelessly with the network 220.

  Game device 101 generally comprises at least one processor device 205 for controlling at least partial execution of a game on game system 100. The processor device 205 can be formed by a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a programmable logic device, or the like. The game device 101 also includes a memory device 206 formed of, for example, a semiconductor random access memory (RAM) and a read only (read only) memory (ROM). A plurality of input / output (I / O) interfaces are also typically included, including an audio-video interface 207 coupled to a video display 214 and speakers 217. The game device 101 also includes an I / O interface 213 for the input device 202. When the game device 101 is a game machine 101A, the game device 101 is a coin insertion device 106A and a bill insertion device 107A as shown in FIG. When the game apparatus 101 is the computer 101B, the interface 213 is also used for the mouse 203.

  Game device 101 may also include or be connected to an interface 208 for use with external modem 216. When the game apparatus 101 is the game machine 101A, the interface 208 can be used for the coin dispensing apparatus 218. In some implementations, the modem 216 can be built into the gaming device 101, for example within the interface 208. The game apparatus 101 also has a local area network interface 211, which allows the game apparatus 101 to be coupled to the LAN 222 via the connection unit 223. As also shown in FIG. 2, LAN 222 is also connected to wide area network 220 via connection 224 and generally includes so-called “firewall” devices or similar functions. Interface 211 may be formed by an Ethernet circuit card, a wireless Bluetooth, or an IEEE 802.11 wireless device.

  Interfaces 208 and 213 can provide both serial and parallel connectivity, with the former generally implemented according to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard and having a corresponding USB connector (not shown). A storage device 209 is provided, which typically includes a hard disk drive (HDD) 210. Other devices such as floppy disk drives and magnetic tape drives can also be used. An optical disk drive 212 is generally provided to function as a non-volatile data source. Accordingly, portable memory devices such as optical disks (eg, CD-ROM, DVD), USB-RAM, and floppy disks can be used as appropriate data sources for game system 100.

  The game device 101 may also include one or more hardware meters (hardware meters) 215 as required by some supervisory authorities. The hard meter 215 measures the cumulative number of credit inputs by the player of the game apparatus 101 and the payout by the game apparatus 101 throughout the life of the game apparatus 101. The meter 215 is generally set to “0” when the game apparatus 101 is first set.

  The components 205-213 of the game device 101 generally communicate via the interconnect bus 204 in a manner that results in the normal operation mode of the game device 101 known to those skilled in the art.

  The game described herein is a “pachinko” type game. FIG. 3 shows a graphic screen 300 displayed to the user on the display device 214 during game play. As shown in FIG. 3, the displayed graphic screen 300 is similar to a conventional pachinko game. The game area displayed on the screen 300 includes a start area 302, an interaction area 304, and a collection area 306. The start area 302 includes a plurality of start positions 308 that can be selected by the player. FIG. 3 shows only some of these start positions, and these start positions are indicated by dotted circles. An object 10 in the form of a ball bearing is ejected from the selected starting position. Upon release, the ball bearing 310 “drops” toward the collection area 306. The trajectory of the ball bearing 310 passes through the interaction area 304.

  The interaction area 304 includes a plurality of pins that are distributed in a predetermined manner between the start area 302 and the collection area 306. The distribution of the pins 314 is such that the ball bearing 310 interacts with at least one pin 314 during the fall towards the collection area 306 of the ball bearing 310, regardless of which start position the ball bearing 310 is released from. It is a distribution like this. Depending on the particular trajectory, the ball bearing 310 is either collected in one of the collection containers 312 included in the collection area 306 or “dropped out”. Depending on whether or not the ball bearing 310 is collected anyway, and if it is collected, a bonus point or bonus award is given depending on which collection container 312 is collected. The ball bearing 310 that once falls from the start area 302 and passes through the interaction area 304 to the collection area 306 is referred to as a “run” after being released.

  The award given depends on the trajectory of the ball bearing, which depends on the particular starting point 308 selected, the characteristics of the ball bearing itself, and the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304. The characteristics of the interaction area 304 depend on the number, characteristics, and distribution (position) of the interaction pins 314. Similarly, the collection characteristics of the collection area 306 are determined by the number of collection containers 312, collection characteristics, and positions. In particular, the game described includes functionality that allows for changing at least some of the characteristics of the ball bearing 310, the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304, and the collection characteristics of the collection area 306.

  The interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304 can be changed by assigning one or more interaction pins 314 to at least one physical characteristic other than deflecting the approaching ball bearing 310. One such characteristic can be simulated rotation about a central axis, as shown by pin 316. The interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304 can also be changed by incorporating pins 314 that emerge, retract, and / or move within the interaction area 304 during the fall of the ball bearing 310.

  Changes in the shape and / or material of one or more pins 316 relative to the remaining pins 316 can also be simulated as shown by pin 330. The change in the material of the pin 330 can be facilitated by a change in the elastic characteristics of the pin 330 and / or a change in the coefficient of friction involved in the interaction between the falling ball bearing 310 and the pin 330.

  In addition, more complex non-contact interactions between any of the falling ball bearings 310 and pins 314 can be incorporated based on simulated field forces. The simulated field force between the ball bearing 310 and the pin 314 may be based on the processor 205 simulating an interaction between a pair of identical (or opposite) polar charge, magnetic field, etc. it can.

  Additional elements can be added to the interaction area 304 to change the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304. For example, a fan 318 can be incorporated into the interaction area 304. The fan 318 generates “airflow” and affects the trajectory of the ball bearing 310 across the airflow path. A “trampoline” 320 is placed in the interaction area 304 so that the falling ball bearing interacts with the area of the trampoline and can deflect depending on the shape of the trampoline 320 and the initial trajectory of the ball bearing 310. . The “wall surface” 322 can perform a function similar to that of the trampoline 420 by deflecting the falling ball bearing 310 in different directions. Alternatively, or in addition to the above elements, a “hole” 324 can be incorporated into the interaction area, the hole 324 traps the ball bearing 310 and thus prevents the ball bearing 310 from reaching the collection vessel 312. .

  The “physical” interaction of the ball bearing 310 with any element of the interaction area 304 can be changed by changing the characteristics of the falling ball bearing 310. For example, the ball bearing 310 has some simulated “weight” that causes the ball bearing 310 to move downward. Changing this weight affects the speed of the ball bearing 310 and the interaction of the ball bearing 310 with other elements of the interaction area 304 such as pins and trampolines.

  The falling ball bearing 310 itself can be set to interact with the pins 314 or other elements within the interaction area 304. For example, the ball bearing 310 can be set to “explode”. Such an “explosion” during the fall of the ball bearing 310 can be set so as to destroy a plurality of adjacent pins 314. Depending on the proximity to the location of the “explosion”, one or more collection vessels 312 can also be damaged, limiting its ability to collect additional ball bearings. In addition, a specific combination of pins 314 and / or additional interacting elements is configured, which causes the ball bearing 310 to “stuck” at a particular location, thus other ball bearings during the rest of the game. Prevents it from passing through this position.

  Apart from changing the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304 and the characteristics of the falling ball bearing 310, changes can be made to the collection characteristics of the collection area 306. For example, the size, number, and position of the collection container 312 can be changed for different game runs. In addition to this, during at least part of the run of the game, for example, by simulating a belt conveyor 326 that supports the collection container 312 and conveys the collection container 312 at a fixed speed or a variable speed in a predetermined direction. The position of the container 312 can be changed continuously.

  Post-run awarding is also added, for example, when a falling ball bearing 310 interacts with a specific pin in the interaction area 304 or interacts with a plurality of predetermined pins 314 following a specific trajectory Can be varied by giving bonus points and prizes.

  As described with respect to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2, an important application of this game is in a betting environment, where playing the game is related to making a bet. In this case, the characteristics and functions of the game can be changed according to the bet amount bet. For example, the interaction characteristic of the interaction area 304 or the collection characteristic of the collection area 306 can be changed according to the amount of a wager bet at the start of the game. Stakes larger than the fixed amount can result in an increase in the speed of the “fan” 318 and thus give a greater change in the trajectory of the falling ball bearing 310. Depending on the amount of bets placed at the start of the game, the number, size, or speed of the moving collection containers 312 may also be affected.

  In some game environment settings, the combination of the ball bearing 310 characteristics and start position 308, the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304, and the collection characteristics of the collection area 306 is primarily responsible for the ball bearing 310. It can be directed towards a specific location within 306. Taking advantage of this, if the ball bearing 310 reaches a collection vessel 312 located in an area other than the “preferred” area where the current combination of interaction and collection characteristics reaches, it will greatly increase the award and bonus. By increasing it, the variability of the award allocation can be increased.

  It will be apparent from the foregoing description that the described game played on the gaming system 100 provides an enhanced gaming experience by introducing increased interactivity and a more dynamic gaming environment. Although this game has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and / or changes can be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. The examples are illustrative and not limiting.

  For example, the game is described in connection with changing at least one of the characteristics of the released ball bearing 310, the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304, and / or the characteristics of the collection area 306 after each run. I have done it. In particular, some characteristic changes are made before each new release of the ball bearing 310. However, any modification of the above characteristics can be incorporated during the fall of the ball bearing 310.

  In addition, the game can be divided into multiple sessions, each session including a predetermined number of runs. In this case, at least some of the game systems can be set to change any of the above characteristics only at the start of a new game session. This gives the player more time to adapt to the specific game settings of each session.

  The game is generally played by releasing a single ball bearing 310 in any particular run, but two or more ball bearings can be released simultaneously in at least some runs.

  Changes in the interaction characteristics and / or collection characteristics described above can be pre-programmed to occur periodically. Alternatively, changes in the interaction characteristics and / or collection characteristics can be triggered (activated) randomly by the processor 205 based on the output from the random number generator. Furthermore, there are options that allow the player to determine at least some of the above-described interaction characteristics and collection characteristics at his convenience, for example, using the input device 107.

  When a game is played on the game machine 101A, and the game game includes betting, a change in any characteristic of the game is bet on the game machine 101A during the last bet amount or a predetermined time. Can depend on the total amount of stakes. Alternatively, any change in the characteristics of the game can be made dependent on the total amount of bets placed on multiple gaming machines (eg, 102A and 103A) connected to the network (eg, 222A).

  The graphic screen of FIG. 3 is directed to the falling ball bearing 310 and the plurality of pins 314, but the ball bearing 310 is only one representation of a falling object (object) and may have other forms and representations. . For example, the falling object can have the shape of a slinky (spring-like repute toy, registered trademark), earthworm-shaped insect, cube or dice (eg, a dice having six or more faces). Similarly, the pin 314 is merely a representation of a stationary object, and may have a shape other than the circle illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 400 for implementing a game on a computer. The method 400 summarizes the steps for defining a single run in the “pachinko” type game described herein. The method 400 may be implemented as software, such as one or more application programs that can be executed by the game system 100.

  The method 400 begins after a player requesting the release of the ball bearing 310 from the start area 302, for example using the input device 107, begins a run. In step 402, the processor 402 determines the game environment displayed on the screen 214. As described with reference to FIG. 3, the graphic screen includes a start area 302 located at the top of the display 214, a collection area 306 located at the bottom of the display, and between the start area 302 and the collection area 306. Defined by the interaction area 304 located.

  In step 404, the processor 205 simulates a start area 302 that includes a plurality of start positions selected by the player. Similarly, at step 406, processor 302 performs a simulation of collection area 306 that includes one or more collection containers 312. The collection characteristic of the collection area 306 includes at least one of the number, size, and position of the collection container 312. In a similar manner, in step 408, the interaction area 304 is simulated, and when the ball bearing 310 passes through the interaction area 304 on the way to the collection area 306, the interaction characteristics of this area are determined by the ball bearing 310. Change the trajectory.

  In step 410, the processor 205 simulates the release of a ball bearing 310 (ie, object) having specific object characteristics from the start position determined by the user. Next, in step 412, the trajectory and final destination of the falling ball bearing 310 are determined based on the start position selected by the player, the object characteristics of the ball bearing 310, and the interaction characteristics of the interaction area 304. Once the trajectory is determined, the movement of the ball bearing 310 (or the falling object) is displayed on the display device 214. This trajectory can be determined almost immediately after the player has selected the starting position or during the run time. Next, in step 414, bonuses and prizes are awarded based on whether the ball bearing 310 has reached the collection container 312 and which specific container has been reached. Next, in step 416, at least one characteristic of the ball bearing 310 (or object), interaction area 304, or collection area 306 is changed to provide the player with a game that has changed characteristics for the next run. To do.

  Although the method has been generally described in FIG. 4, detailed examples of various methods for modifying the interaction and collection characteristics have already been described with reference to FIG.

  A semi-electronic game machine version of the above game is shown in FIG. Similar to a conventional mechanical pinball game, this semi-electronic game machine operates with a real or non-simulated ball bearing 510, pins 514, and a collection vessel 512. The release mechanism and the interaction between the ball bearing and the pin are purely mechanical, even if they are controlled by the processor 205 or other processor associated with the gaming machine. As in the pure electronic version of the game, such processors can be embedded or remotely located.

  The release of the ball bearing 510 can be performed by rotating a mechanical dial 528 that is typically located on the front panel of the gaming machine. In some configurations, the rotational speed of the dial predetermines the downward speed of the released ball. This change in speed can be imparted either by using a mechanical device that releases the ball bearing at a certain initial downward speed, or by using ball bearings having different weights. A change in the “weight” of the ball bearing can be provided by having ball bearings made of different materials. In yet another embodiment, the dial is used only to determine when the ball bearing is released. For example, the release can be preset to a specific point in time when the dial rotation speed drops to 20 revolutions per minute. Of course, any speed that is considered appropriate may be used as a trigger point for releasing one or more ball bearings 510.

  In particular, for the semi-electronic version of this game, all interaction elements in the interaction area, such as pins 514, “trampolines” 520, “walls” 522, “fans” 518, and “holes” 524 are the actual mechanical devices. Which can be controlled at least in part by the processor 205 or other processor associated with the gaming machine. Pin 516 is connected to, for example, a motor that rotates pin 516 when it receives a command signal from processor 205. As in the game of FIG. 3, this pin can be configured to rotate at a fixed or variable speed. The pins 514 can be made to protrude and retract through openings in the back plate 540 at each run of the ball bearing. The “fan” 518 is in the form of a blower tube whose airflow can be controlled by the processor 205.

  There can be several different pins 530, each made of a different material and thus having different mechanical properties. Introducing different pins 530 through different openings in the backplate 540 at different times changes the deflection of the ball bearing 530 by the pins 530 and thus the trajectory of the ball bearing in an unpredictable manner.

  The “wall surface” 522 can be formed of a piece of wood, a piece of plastic, or other rigid material that deflects an approaching ball bearing that is pushed through an opening in the backplate 540 at a given point in time.

  The “trampoline” 520 is also formed by a flexible membrane that deflects an approaching ball bearing that is pushed through an opening in the backplate 540 at a predetermined time.

  On the other hand, the “hole” 524 is provided by introducing a tube opening at each location, again through the opening in the back plate 540, so that ball bearings reaching this opening enter the tube. Oriented outside the game area.

  Finally, a real belt conveyor 526 formed by a belt and two reels on which at least one rotates is used in the semi-electronic version of the game. As explained above, all interacting machine elements are at least partially controlled by the processor 205, which passes through respective openings in the backplate 540 into the game area of these machine elements. Perform the installation. Of course, these openings can be covered by slide covers, which are also controlled by the processor 205 and are removed only when the introduction of specific machine elements is required.

  The configuration described above can be used as an independent game or in combination with other game devices. For example, the processor 205 can be configured to trigger a random number generator (not shown) associated with a plurality of symbols once the ball reaches the container. Using the result of the random number generator, these symbols are rearranged into a specific combination. Depending on these combinations, bonus points or prizes are awarded to the player. In FIG. 5, these symbols are represented by a plurality of “spin” reels 530. Various combinations formed on the resulting matrix of symbols can be associated with giving bonus points and awards. These functions are described in more detail in the following paragraphs.

  The event that the ball bearing reaches one of the containers or a predetermined container effectively triggers the rotating reel game. In the “revolving reel game” to be described below, each rotation of the reel is referred to as a “game”. FIGS. 6 and 7 show two similar screens 600 and 700, respectively, of a spinning reel game displayed on the display device 214. Screen 700 includes five longitudinal reel strips 701-705, each reel strip 701-705 displaying a triple symbol (eg, 706, 707, and 708) and in the same position on each reel strip 701-705. The symbol forms a horizontal line (eg, 717). For example, the reel strip 701 comprises a star symbol 706 in its first position, a cross symbol 707 in its second position, and a square symbol in its third position, where the star symbol 706 is within the horizontal line 717 of the symbol. This is the first symbol. Thus, the spinning reel game screen 700 has a “3 symbols (or rows) × 5 reel strip” layout (ie, a 3 × 5 reel strip layout). Other reel strip layouts such as “5 symbols (or rows) × 5 reel strips” can also be used.

  Hereinafter, a method of a specific game (that is, rotation of the reels 701 to 705) of the rotation reel game will be described with reference to FIG.

  Method 800 begins at step 801, where an initial screen of a spinning reel game is displayed, in this example screen 700 of FIG.

  In the next step 802, if the player has placed a bet, the amount of bet placed on the game to be played is specified. This amount is generally specified by a respective application program (not shown) executed by the processor 205, which typically examines the player's input via the input device 202. In the described configuration, the spinning reel game has a plurality of paylines (payment lines) as known to those skilled in the art, and a player of the spinning reel game can place a wager on each payline. These paylines are generally indicated by payline instruction strings 709 and 710 as shown in FIG. For example, the spinning reel game described herein has five paylines, and these panelines are generally indicated by numbers 1-5 in columns 709 and 710. Each of these five paylines is represented by a thin line (eg, 711) in FIG. The paylines in FIG. 7 are three horizontal paylines (1, 2, 3) and two diagonal paylines (4, 5). Thus, the spinning reel game pays a certain amount of credit for a particular combination of symbols such as three crosses (eg, 712) on the payline 711.

  Screen 700 also includes a “wager” meter 714. In this example, the spinning reel game is a 1-cent (1 ¢) denomination (unit currency) game, as indicated by a “1 ¢ game” sign and a “100 credit purchase for $ 1” sign in the lower right corner of the screen 700. is there. Thus, in the spinning reel game described herein, each credit is worth 1 cent. As shown in FIG. 7, the wager meter 714 indicates that the player has placed a wager on all five paylines (or the rotation of the reel strips 701-705) of a particular game (indicated by arrow 719). This is indicated by displaying the number “5”. Stake meter 714 also indicates that the total amount of stakes for a particular game is 5 cents ($ 0.05) (ie, 1 cent ($ 0.01) per payline).

  In step 801, the player can use the input device 202 to indicate the number of paylines he / she wants to bet on a particular game. The player can also choose to bet multiple credits on each payline. For example, for a 1 cent (1 ¢) denominated spinning reel game, the player may choose to bet 2 credits (ie, 2 cents ($ 0.02)) on each payline. Such a selection effectively converts the spinning reel game into a 2-cent denomination game.

  For an online game using the game system 100B, for example, a player may select denomination (unit currency) (for example, 1 cent (1 ¢), 5 cents (5 ¢), or 1 dollar ($ 1)). it can. The selected denomination determines the amount to bet on each pane line of a particular game, and thus the amount to bet on each game.

  A “credit” meter 716 is also displayed on the screen 105, which shows the total amount for the player, the amount of credit that the player initially deposited (or available on the player's account), And the amount of credit earned by the player during a particular gaming session. When the player places a wager, the wager meter 714 and credit meter 716 are updated to reflect the amount of the wager.

  The method 800 continues to the next step 803, where the reel strips 701-705 are rotated as a result of the ball bearing reaching any container or selected container. The rotation of the reel strips 701-705 is controlled by an associated spinning reel game application program (not shown) executed by the processor 205 and represents the processing and actual performance of the game.

  In the next step 804, the stop positions of the reel strips 701 to 705 are determined. The stop position of each reel strip 701 to 705 is generally determined by the application program of the rotating reel game in accordance with the output of the application program (not shown) of the random number generator.

  Then, in the next step 805, as shown in FIG. 6, the result screen 600 of the spinning reel game is displayed on the screen 214. The symbols in the reel strips 701 to 705 of the screen 600 are based on the stop positions of the reel strips 701 to 705 determined in step 804.

  The method 800 ends at step 806, where the amount of credits paid for any combination of symbols in the screen 600 is determined. Screen 600 includes an “Acquire” meter 615 that indicates the amount of credit that the player has earned in a particular game and the corresponding amount. In this example, 100 credits ($ 1.00) are paid for the combination of three stars 607, 612 and 613 on the payline 711. Also in step 806, the credit meter 716 is updated to reflect the amount of money that the player has earned on the game.

  In an alternative implementation, a combination of three stars 607, 612 and 613 is combined with a star 608 in row 617 and a star 609 in row 619, for which credit is paid to the player. You can also. As another alternative, credits can be paid for smiles (eg, 606) in reel strips 701, 702, and 703, for example. However, in each of these examples, the spinning reel game requires additional paylines.

  Depending on the configuration, the reel-type game can be provided only as a bonus game, and once the player has used a specific amount of bonus points accumulated, the player can automatically return directly to the pachinko game. Alternatively, the player is given the option to continue playing the reel-type game and decide whether and how to return to the pachinko game.

  It should be noted that the described embodiments are illustrative and not limiting. For example, it will be apparent that the present invention is applicable to any pachinko game, regardless of the particular currency, denomination range, stake amount, or jackpot associated with a particular game. It will also be apparent from the foregoing description that the present invention can be implemented both on stand-alone devices such as game consoles, handheld electronic devices, or computers and on network devices. The most common form of implementation of the present invention on a network device is assumed to be related to online games on the Internet.

  From the above, it is apparent that the described configuration is applicable to the game, computer, and data processing industries.

Claims (41)

In an electronic or semi-electronic game system for playing pachinko games,
a) a processor for promoting and controlling the game;
b) a display for displaying the game to the player;
c) input means connected to the processor and used by the player to control one or more aspects of the game;
Upon receiving a command from the input means, the processor performs a continuous release of objects, each of the objects having a predetermined object characteristic within a game area, the game area having a game characteristic, and a plurality of Including interacting objects, each of the interacting objects having predetermined characteristics and affecting the trajectory of the emitted object;
The game system, wherein the processor is configured to change at least one of the object characteristic of the released object or the game characteristic of the game area. The game area is
a) a start area including a plurality of start positions selected by the player, wherein each of the objects is released from each of the start positions and falls;
b) a collection area including at least one collection container for collecting the falling object and having a collection characteristic including at least one of the number, size, and position of the collection container;
c) an interaction area disposed between the start area and the collection area, wherein the interaction area includes an interaction object, whereby at least part of the falling object is captured by the capture area. When passing through the interaction area on the way to the collection area, the trajectory of the object changes, and the interaction area includes an interaction characteristic including at least one of the number, position, and characteristic of the interaction object. Have
The trajectory and final destination of the falling object is determined by the start position of the object selected by the player and the interaction characteristic of the interaction area, and each of the falling objects is at least the Awards and / or bonus points are awarded to the player, depending on whether or not it was collected in one collection container and the collected collection container,
The processor is configured to cause a change in at least one of an object characteristic of the emitted object, the interaction characteristic of the interaction area, and the collection characteristic of the collection area; The game system according to claim 1.   The game system is a pure electronic game system, electronically simulates the object and the game area, the interacting object is a interacting pin, and the processor includes the falling object and the object The game system of claim 2, wherein the game system is configured to simulate a physical interaction with the pin on a path of the object, and the object is deflected as a result of the physical interaction.   The pin property includes assigning at least one physical property to the pin, wherein the assigned property affects a physical interaction between the simulated falling object and the pin. The game system according to claim 3.   The game system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the characteristic of the pin includes a simulation of the pin rotating around a central axis.   The change in the interaction characteristic includes placing at least one pin within the interaction area, exiting the interaction area, and / or moving within the interaction area. The game system according to any one of claims 2 to 5. The change in the interaction characteristic is
a) a change in the shape of at least one of the pins;
b) imparting elastic properties and / or introducing a coefficient of friction to at least one of the pins, or changing a previously applied elastic property or coefficient of friction associated with at least one of the pins; and ,
c) Give at least one of the pins the ability to attract the falling object in a non-contact manner, thereby simulating the field force or changing the strength of the previously assigned field force The game system according to claim 3, further comprising at least one simulation of changing a coefficient related to a function assigned before the operation.   The change in interaction characteristics includes at least one additional physical object introduced into the interaction area, the physical object interacting with at least one of the emitted objects, and the object The game system according to claim 2, wherein the trajectory is changed.   9. The game system according to claim 8, wherein the introduced at least one physical object includes at least one of a fan, a hole, a wall surface, and a trampoline.   The game according to claim 2, wherein the change in the collection characteristic includes a change in the position of the collection container by a belt conveyor that conveys at least one of the collection containers. system.   11. The award and / or bonus points are given to the player even when the falling object interacts with at least one predetermined pin or follows a predetermined path. A game system according to any one of the above.   12. At least a portion of the emitted object is configured to interact with the interaction area and affect the interaction characteristics. Game system. The at least one object characteristic of the emitted object is simulated for the emitted object:
The object is configured to explode, thereby removing the pin adjacent to the object and / or destroying the collection container adjacent to the object;
Configured to change the simulated weight of the object to change the speed of the object and interaction with other elements in the interaction area; and
The object is given the ability to get stuck at a specific location within the interaction area, thereby changing by at least one of preventing other objects from passing through the specific location for the remainder of the game. The game system according to claim 12.   The game system according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of the objects are simultaneously released at least at a part of an instant at which the objects are released.   The game system according to claim 3, wherein any one of the interaction characteristics and / or the collection characteristics is changed before each of the objects is released.   Dividing the gaming time of the player into a plurality of game sessions, each of the game sessions including a predetermined number of releases of the object, and at least some of the interaction characteristics and before the game session; The game system according to claim 3, wherein the collection characteristic is changed.   17. Any of the interaction characteristics and / or the collection characteristics are varied based on at least one of a predetermined manner, a random manner, or a user defined manner. A game system according to any one of the above.   The game system according to claim 1, wherein the game is played in a simulated three-dimensional environment.   The game system according to claim 3, wherein the simulated object includes a ball bearing, a slinky, an earthworm, a cube, or a multi-sided dice.   The game system according to claim 1, wherein playing the game is related to betting a bet.   21. The game system according to claim 20, wherein at least one of the interaction characteristic and / or the collection characteristic is changed in accordance with an amount of the bet placed.   The wager higher than a predetermined amount triggers an increase in the speed of a fan introduced into the interaction area and / or a distribution of a larger number of the collection containers within the collection area. The game system according to claim 21.   The game system is configured such that a combination of at least a portion of the start position, the interaction characteristic, and the collection characteristic directs the falling object mainly to at least one specific part of the collection area. 23. The award and bonus points awarded to the player are greatly increased with respect to the object collected in a portion other than the at least one specific portion. The game system described in Crab.   The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the game system is configured to switch to a reel type electronic game and / or to switch from a reel type electronic game.   The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the game system is configured to promote an online game on the Internet. A processor that promotes and controls the game, a display device for displaying the game to the player, and is connected to the processor and used by the player to control one or more aspects of the game. In a method for realizing a game using a game system comprising an input means on a computer,
Using the processor,
a) defining a game area to be displayed on the display device, the game area being a start area located above the graphic screen of the display device and a collection located below the graphic screen; An area and an interaction area located between the start area and the collection area, the start area including a plurality of start positions for releasing the object selected by the player, The collection area includes at least one collection container, the collection area having collection characteristics defined by at least one of the number, size, and position of the at least one collection container, the mutual area The action area includes a plurality of interaction objects having predetermined characteristics, and the interaction object falls The object is set to simulate changing the trajectory of the falling object by interacting with the falling object as it passes through the interaction area, and the interaction characteristic of the interaction area is: Defined by at least one of the number, location, and characteristics of the interacting objects;
b) simulating the continuous discharge of the objects, each of the objects being discharged from the respective start position and falling towards the collection area;
c) calculating the trajectory and final destination of the released object based on the start position predetermined by the player and the interaction characteristics of the interaction area, and displaying the movement of the object in the display Displaying on the device;
d) Based on the calculated final destination, depending on whether each of the falling objects has been collected in the at least one collection container and on the collected collection container, a prize and And / or promoting bonus points to the player, the method further comprising:
e) A computer-implemented method for a game comprising the step of changing at least one of the object characteristics, the interaction characteristics, and / or the collection characteristics of the object.   The interacting object is an interacting pin, and the processor is configured to simulate a physical interaction between the falling object and the pin on the path of the object; 27. A computer-implemented game method according to claim 26, wherein the object is deflected as a result of action.   The pin property includes assigning at least one physical property to the pin, wherein the assigned property affects a physical interaction between the simulated falling object and the pin. The computer implementation method of the game according to claim 27.   29. A computer-implemented game method according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the pin characteristics include a simulation of the pin rotating about a central axis.   The change in the interaction characteristic includes placing at least one pin within the interaction area, exiting the interaction area, and / or moving within the interaction area. A computer realization method of the game according to any one of claims 26 to 29. The change in the interaction characteristic is
a) a change in the shape of at least one of the pins;
b) imparting elastic properties and / or introducing a coefficient of friction to at least one of the pins, or changing a previously applied elastic property or coefficient of friction associated with at least one of the pins; and ,
c) Give at least one of the pins the ability to attract the falling object in a non-contact manner, thereby simulating the field force or changing the strength of the previously assigned field force 31. The computer-implemented method for a game according to claim 26, further comprising at least one simulation of changing a coefficient related to an assigned function before the game.   The change in interaction characteristics includes at least one additional physical object introduced into the interaction area, the physical object interacting with at least one of the emitted objects, and the object 32. The computer-implemented method for a game according to claim 26, wherein the trajectory of the game is changed.   The computer implemented method of a game according to claim 32, wherein the introduced at least one physical object includes at least one of a fan, a hole, a wall surface, and a trampoline.   The game according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein the change in the collection characteristic includes a change in the position of the collection container by a belt conveyor that conveys at least one of the collection containers. Computer realization method.   35. A prize and / or bonus point is given to the player even when the falling object interacts with at least one predetermined pin or follows a predetermined path. A computer realization method of the game according to any one of the above.   35. A computer implemented game according to claim 34, wherein at least a portion of the emitted objects are configured to interact with the interaction area to affect the interaction characteristics. Method. The at least one object characteristic of the emitted object is simulated for the emitted object:
The object is configured to explode, thereby removing the pin adjacent to the object and / or destroying the collection container adjacent to the object;
Configured to change the simulated weight of the object to change the speed of the object and interaction with other elements in the interaction area; and
The object is given the ability to get stuck at a specific location within the interaction area, thereby changing by at least one of preventing other objects from passing through the specific location for the remainder of the game. 37. The computer-implemented method for a game according to claim 36.   38. The computer-implemented game method according to claim 26, further comprising a step of switching to and / or switching from a reel-type electronic game.   39. A computer-implemented method of gaming according to any of claims 26 to 38, wherein the method promotes an online game on the Internet. A computer program product having a computer readable medium, wherein the computer program is stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising a processor for promoting and controlling a game, and a display for displaying the game to a player Facilitating playing an electronic game using a game system connected to the processor and input means used by the player to control one or more aspects of the game. And the program product is
Computer program code means for defining a game area to be displayed on the display device, the game area being a start area located above the graphic screen of the display device and a catch area located below the graphic screen. A collecting area, and an interaction area located between the start area and the collecting area, the start area including a plurality of start positions for discharging an object selected by the player; The collection area includes at least one collection container, the collection area having collection characteristics defined by at least one of the number, size, and position of the at least one collection container; The interaction area includes a plurality of interaction objects having predetermined characteristics, and the interaction objects Is configured to simulate changing the trajectory of the falling object by interacting with the falling object when the falling object passes through the interaction area. Computer program code means determined by at least one of the number, location, and characteristics of the interacting objects;
Computer program code means for simulating the continuous discharge of the objects, each of the objects being discharged from the respective start position and falling towards the collection area;
The trajectory and final destination of the released object are calculated based on the start position predetermined by the player and the interaction characteristics of the interaction area, and the movement of the object is calculated on the display device. Computer program code means for displaying on;
Based on the calculated final destination, depending on whether each of the falling objects is collected in the at least one collection container and the collected collection container, Computer program code means for providing awards and / or bonus points;
Computer program product comprising: computer program code means for changing at least one of the object properties, the interaction properties, and / or the collection properties of the object.   41. A computer program product comprising the computer program according to claim 40 recorded on the computer-readable medium.

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