JP2011067702A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a novel configuration related to put-out of game balls to improve the motion of discharging game balls to a ball tray. <P>SOLUTION: An upper tray unit 17 is attached to the front surface of the game machine, and game balls are stored in an upper tray 18 formed in the upper tray unit 17. Prize balls are put out into the upper tray 18 based on winning, and in addition, dispensed balls are put out to the upper tray according to the ball dispensing operation. Game balls in the upper tray 18 are sequentially loaded, and each game round is implemented with loading of a prescribed number of game balls as a starting condition. Game balls are discharged into the upper tray 18 from two outlets 51 and 52. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  As one type of gaming machine, there are bullet balls such as pachinko machines and ball payout gaming machines. In such a ball and ball dispensing game machine, the ball receiving surface is provided with a ball receiving tray inclined toward the ball launch position, and the game balls are sequentially taken into the ball launch position, and the taken game balls are directed to the game area. Fired. When a game ball wins a predetermined winning opening or a winning device, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the upstream side of the ball tray. Further, in some cases, the game balls that cannot be stored in the ball tray are stored in another ball tray, and generally the upper ball tray that leads to the ball launch position stores the upper plate and surplus balls. The ball tray is called the lower plate.

  In addition to the above-mentioned bullet balls and ball payout game machines, in recent years, a ball-type belt-type game machine capable of playing a game similar to a slot machine using a game ball similar to a game ball used in a pachinko machine has been considered. It has been. In such a gaming machine, variable display on the variable display means is started by operating a lever after a predetermined number of game balls have been taken in. A large number of game balls are paid out when the special game state occurs. In such a gaming machine, a ball tray is provided as in the case of the above-described bullet ball and ball dispensing game machine.

  For example, in the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, a ball supply tray (upper plate) is configured by a supply tray main body that stores game balls and a cover frame that stores the supply tray main body and forms an outer cover. The ball supply tray is attached to an open / close panel made of a metal plate. When the game ball is paid out from the payout mechanism due to winning or the like, the game ball is discharged to the ball storage unit via the prize ball outlet provided at the rear of the supply tray main body.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-114183, FIG.

  As the technological development of gaming machines continues to advance, improvements in the configuration relating to the payout of gaming balls are also desired. For example, in the case of a gaming machine (a gaming machine with a large capacity of the upper plate) that can store a large amount of gaming balls when a special gaming state or the like occurs and the gaming balls are paid out, It is desirable to carry out the discharge of the water.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances and the like, and proposes a new configuration relating to payout of a game ball, and is capable of optimizing the discharge operation of the game ball with respect to the ball tray The main purpose is to provide

  In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, in the gaming machine in which a ball tray for storing game balls is provided on the front surface of the gaming machine, and the game balls in the ball tray are sequentially inserted to carry out the game, A plurality of outlets for discharging game balls are provided, and the plurality of outlets are arranged apart from each other.

  According to the said invention, the novel structure which concerns on payout of a game ball can be proposed, and optimization of the discharge operation | movement of the game ball with respect to a ball tray can be aimed at.

It is a perspective view which shows the game machine in one embodiment. It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a front view which expands and shows a game machine main part and a front door side by side. It is a rear view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of an upper plate unit. It is a perspective view which shows the game machine main body of a state which removed the front door etc. It is a block diagram of a payout passage unit. It is a sectional side view showing composition of a belt unit etc. It is a perspective view of a belt unit. It is a rear view of a belt unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows the symbol arrangement | sequence of the belt of each rotary body. It is a figure for demonstrating the arrangement | sequence of an effective line. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the electrical structure of a game machine.

  First, the invention group that can be extracted from the present embodiment is classified as means n (n = 1, 2, 3,...) And is shown below. In addition, an action, an effect, etc. are each described immediately after each means as needed.

Means 1. In a gaming machine that provides a ball tray for storing game balls on the front surface of the gaming machine, and sequentially puts the gaming balls in the ball tray to carry out the game,
A gaming machine comprising: a plurality of outlets for discharging game balls to the ball tray, wherein the plurality of outlets are spaced apart from each other.

  According to the means 1, the discharge ports for discharging the game balls to the ball receiving tray are provided at a plurality of locations separated from each other, and the game balls are discharged by any one of the discharge ports. In this case, the game ball can be discharged over a wide range on the ball tray, and the ball tray can be effectively used and the game ball discharge operation can be optimized. In particular, a suitable configuration can be realized in a gaming machine that expands the ball tray to increase the capacity.

Mean 2. In a gaming machine that provides a ball tray for storing game balls on the front surface of the gaming machine, and sequentially puts the gaming balls in the ball tray to carry out the game,
A gaming machine comprising a plurality of outlets for discharging game balls to the ball tray, wherein the plurality of outlets are arranged at positions substantially upstream and downstream.

  According to the means 2, the discharge port for discharging the game ball to the ball receiving tray is provided at a position which is substantially upstream and downstream, and the game ball is discharged by any one of the discharge ports. In this case, the game ball can be discharged over a wide range on the ball tray, and the ball tray can be effectively used and the game ball discharge operation can be optimized. In particular, a suitable configuration can be realized in a gaming machine that expands the ball tray to increase the capacity.

  Means 3. A gaming machine according to means 1 or 2, wherein the ball tray is provided so as to extend in a lateral width direction of the gaming machine, and the plurality of discharge ports are individually provided in the vicinity of both ends of the ball tray.

  According to the means 3, the plurality of outlets are separately provided in the vicinity of both end portions of the ball receiving tray, and the game ball is discharged to the ball receiving tray through one of the outlet openings at both end portions. Specifically, a discharge port is provided at each of the right end and the left end of the ball tray. In this case, since it is possible to easily recognize from which outlet the game ball has been discharged, it is easy to change the game ball discharge mode, for example, depending on the game ball payout status or the distinction between prize balls and rental balls. Can be confirmed.

  Means 4. In any one of the means 1 to 3, as the ball receiving tray, a first storage area that communicates with an insertion port for introducing a game ball for each game, and a second storage area that is located upstream of the first storage area; A gaming machine, characterized in that the discharge port is provided in each storage area.

  According to the means 4, the 1st storage area and the 2nd storage area are provided as a ball receptacle, and the discharge port is provided in each. The game balls discharged to the first storage area are guided from the storage area to the insertion port. In addition, the game balls discharged to the second storage area are guided to the insertion port through the first storage area. In this case, the storage area can be properly used.

  Means 5. A gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the first storage area and the second storage area are connected so as to be folded back, and the discharge port is provided in the most upstream portion of each storage area.

  According to the means 5, the first storage area on the downstream side and the second storage area on the upstream side are provided so as to overlap in the front-rear direction, and the game ball is discharged from the discharge port provided in the most upstream part of each storage area. Is done. In this case, the game balls can be stored by effectively using the first and second storage areas of the ball tray.

  Means 6. The gaming machine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the discharge port provided on the first storage area side is a discharge port that is normally used.

  According to the means 6, normally, the game ball is stored in the first storage area, and the game ball in the storage area is guided to the insertion port. That is, before a big hit state that is a special gaming state and a large amount of game balls are paid out, that is, when the amount of game balls stored is still small, the game balls are paid out directly to the first storage area and sequentially introduced to the input port. It is burned. For example, when the big hit state repeatedly occurs, it is preferable that the game ball is paid out to the second storage area instead of the first storage area.

  Mean 7 In the means 4 or 5, a payout passage for guiding the game ball paid out from the payout mechanism to the ball receiving tray is provided inside the gaming machine, and the payout passage is connected to the first via the discharge port for the first storage area. In the gaming machine communicated with the storage area, when the payout passage is filled with game balls, the game is transferred to the second storage area from the second storage area discharge port different from the first storage area discharge port. A gaming machine characterized in that a ball is paid out.

  According to the means 7, before the inside of the payout passage is filled with the game balls, the game balls are paid out to the first storage area from the discharge port for the first storage area, and when the inside of the payout passage is filled with the game balls, the second A game ball is paid out from the outlet for the storage area to the second storage area. In this case, the two storage areas (the first storage area and the second storage area) can be used efficiently with the switching of the discharge port.

  Means 8. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein a capacity of the first storage area and the payout passage is set as a capacity capable of storing game balls to be paid out when one special game state is generated.

  According to the means 8, when a special gaming state occurs, at least one payout game ball (prize ball) is stored in the first storage area and the payout passage communicating therewith. Therefore, after the occurrence of the special game state, a game equivalent to one payout game ball in the special game state can be continuously performed without supply of the game ball. In this case, a sufficient amount of game balls can be secured in the ball tray (actually, the first storage area and the payout passage), and the inconvenience that frequent game ball replenishment work is required can be solved. For example, it is preferable to form a plurality of payout passages to increase the capacity of the payout passage.

  Means 9. A gaming machine characterized in that in the means 8, a game start condition is that a predetermined number of game balls are thrown at a time.

  In such a gaming machine, each time a game is executed, a plurality of game balls are thrown in at a time, so that the number of game balls in the ball tray is reduced particularly quickly. Even in such a case, by combining with the means 8, a sufficient amount of game balls can be secured in the ball tray, and the inconvenience that frequent game ball replenishment work is required can be solved.

  Means 10. A gaming machine according to any one of means 7 to 9, wherein a bypass passage that connects the payout mechanism and the second storage area at a short distance is provided, and a discharge port that communicates with the bypass passage is provided.

  According to the means 10, when the inside of the payout passage is filled with game balls, the game balls are paid out almost directly from the payout mechanism to the second storage area through the bypass passage and the discharge port connected to the bypass passage. In this case, the game balls can be paid out to the second storage area without storing the game balls inside the game machine (such as a payout passage). The outlet in this means may be the outlet for the second storage area. The bypass passage may connect the payout mechanism and the ball tray with the shortest distance.

  Means 11. The gaming machine according to claim 10, wherein a rental ball that is lent out in accordance with a ball rental operation is supplied through the bypass passage.

  According to the means 11, since the rental balls are supplied to the ball tray through the bypass passage, the rental balls can be quickly supplied to the second storage area without being stored inside the gaming machine. . It is also possible to confirm that the ball lending has been made securely.

  Means 12. A gaming machine according to any one of means 4 to 11, wherein a gaming ball is lent out through a nozzle extending from a ball rental device, wherein the gaming ball is lent out to the second storage area. Machine.

  According to the means 12, the game ball is lent out from the nozzle of the ball lending device to the second storage area, and then the game ball (rental ball) is taken in from the insertion port via the first storage area. In this case, since the rental ball is once supplied to the second storage area, it can be easily confirmed that the ball rental has been reliably performed.

  Means 13. A game according to any one of means 1 to 12, characterized in that a ball storage section is provided behind the ball receiving tray with the front panel of the gaming machine interposed therebetween, and the plurality of discharge ports are provided in communication with the ball storage section. Machine.

  According to the means 13, when a large amount of game balls are stored in the ball storage unit, the game balls are discharged to the ball tray through any of the plurality of discharge ports. The ball storage unit also functions as a payout passage. For example, when a discharge port is provided on the upstream side and the downstream side of the ball storage unit (payout passage), if the game ball is discharged from the discharge port on the upstream side of the ball storage unit (payout passage), the player can quickly play the game ball Can be confirmed. In other words, it is possible to confirm the payout of game balls with a small time difference from winning or ball lending operations.

  Means 14. A game machine characterized in that in any one of means 1 to 13, the game ball can be switched from which of the plurality of discharge ports.

  According to the means 14, the outlet can be switched intentionally. In particular, considering a combination with any one of the means 4 to 12, the game ball can be selectively discharged to the first storage area or the second storage area by switching the discharge port.

Means 15. In a gaming machine that provides a ball tray for storing game balls on the front surface of the gaming machine, and sequentially puts the gaming balls in the ball tray to carry out the game,
A prize ball discharge port for discharging a prize ball to be dispensed according to a gaming state to the ball tray, and a ball rental discharge port for discharging a ball to be dispensed in accordance with a ball lending operation to the ball tray. A gaming machine, characterized in that each of the discharge ports is disposed apart from each other.

  According to the means 15, the prize balls to be paid out according to the gaming state are discharged from the prize ball discharge port to the ball tray, and the balls to be paid out in accordance with the ball lending operation are discharged from the ball rental discharge port to the ball tray. . In this case, since the respective discharge ports are arranged apart from each other, the player can easily specify whether the game ball discharged on the ball tray is a prize ball or a rental ball. Therefore, it becomes possible to confirm that the supply (payout) of the prize ball or the rental ball has been made reliably.

  Means 16. A gaming machine according to any one of means 1 to 15, comprising a ball tray unit in which the ball tray is formed, wherein the ball tray unit is configured to be detachable from the gaming machine body.

  According to the means 16, since the ball tray unit is detachable, its maintenance and the like can be easily performed.

  Means 17. In any one of the means 1 to 15, an open / close door having a bulging portion that can be opened and closed with respect to the gaming machine main body and bulged forward, and a ball tray unit that forms the ball tray, The ball tray unit is arranged so as to be surrounded by the bulging part. When the ball tray unit is mounted on the gaming machine main body side, the opening / closing door opens, and when the opening / closing door closes, the opening / closing door closes the ball. A gaming machine characterized in that a part of the tray unit is supported.

  According to the means 17, when the open / close door is closed, the ball tray unit is held by being surrounded by the bulging portion. When the opening / closing door is opened, the ball tray unit does not follow the opening of the opening / closing door but remains on the gaming machine main body side. Therefore, when an operation unit or a display unit is provided on the opening / closing door side, the presence of the ball tray is not obstructed when performing operations such as component replacement and wiring processing, and is provided on the opening / closing door. Maintenance of parts can be easily performed. In addition, the game balls in the ball tray are not spilled off when the door is opened.

  Means 18. A gaming machine having a display device that displays a plurality of pictures in a variable manner in any one of means 1 to 17, wherein the picture on the display device is variably displayed due to an operation of a start operation means, and a stop operation A gaming machine configured to stop the display of the variation of the picture on the display device due to the operation of the means or due to the passage of a predetermined time without the stop operation means being operated.

  According to the means 18, the player can actively participate in the game by operating the start operation means or the stop operation means.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment relating to a gaming machine in which a game is started after taking a game ball will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment requires a game ball (for example, a game ball similar to a pachinko machine: a pachinko ball) as a predetermined number of game media (game value) in the game, and a plurality of game balls when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Game balls, and in some cases, a large amount of game balls are paid out. The game balls are not limited to pachinko balls, and may be steel balls in a broad sense.

  First, the outline of the external configuration and internal structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described. Here, FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire gaming machine 1, FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming machine 1, FIG. 3 is a front view showing the gaming machine main body and the front door 4 in an expanded state, and FIG. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the gaming machine 1. Note that FIG. 2 also illustrates a ball lending apparatus A provided with the gaming machine 1.

  As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 as a main body frame, and a front frame that is provided at a front portion of the outer frame 2 and is openable and closable at one side of the outer frame 2. 3 is provided. In this case, the outer frame 2 and the front frame 3 are connected to each other by hinges 31 and 32 at the upper and lower portions of the left end so as to be opened and closed. The outer frame 2 is configured by connecting wooden plate members to four sides, and has a rectangular shape as a whole. Further, the front frame 3 is made of a rectangular frame-like plate material whose outer dimensions are slightly smaller than those of the outer frame 2, and is provided so as to contact the front surface of the outer frame 2. A back set board 16 extending from the back side to the back side along the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame 2 is attached and fixed to the front frame 3, and a belt unit or a game ball described later is attached to the back set board 16. A device for taking in or paying out (so-called back set), various control boards, and the like are mounted. In the present embodiment, the gaming machine main body is basically composed of the outer frame 2, the front frame 3, the back set board 16 provided on the front frame 3, and the like.

  A front door 4 as an openable / closable door that can be opened and closed with respect to the front frame 3 is provided on the front side of the front frame 3, and a lower dish unit 5 is provided below the front door 4. That is, the front side of the front frame 3 is covered with the front door 4 and the lower plate unit 5, and the front frame 3 and the upper plate 3 above the lower plate unit 5 are opened by opening the front door 4. Various mechanisms (such as a belt unit) mounted thereon are exposed forward. The front frame 3 and the front door 4 are connected in an openable and closable manner by upper and lower hinges 33 and 34 at the left end. Therefore, the right side of the front door 4 is rotated around the left side of the front frame 3.

  The front surface of the front door 4 and the lower tray unit 5 is formed in a continuous three-dimensional shape so as to form an integrated appearance as a whole gaming machine, and is formed in a ring shape over the entire outer periphery of the gaming machine 1 and the front surface of the gaming machine. Have annular portions 6, 7 projecting from each other. The annular portions 6 and 7 have a substantially symmetrical shape when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A large number of light emitters 8 and 9 made of light emitting diodes or the like are embedded in these annular portions 6 and 7 (see the partially broken portion in the lower right of FIG. 2), and the light emitters 8 and 9 emit light during the game. Thus, for example, the annular portions 6 and 7 illuminate all at once or around the outer periphery of the gaming machine. Of the annular part 6, the top part 6a located at the uppermost part protrudes further forward than the other parts. The top part 6a is provided with a pair of left and right lamp display parts 10 and a pair of left and right speakers. 11 is provided. Further, in the annular portion 6, a constricted portion 6 b that is constricted on the inside is provided near the center in the height direction, and the lamp display portions 12 and 13 are also provided on the constricted portion 6 b.

  The annular portions 6 and 7 (light emitters 8 and 9) and the lamp display portions 10, 12, 13 and the like are for performing an auxiliary effect during the game while intending to diversify the display contents and make the display effect heavy. It is provided and performs various display effects as the game progresses. For example, when it becomes possible to acquire a big bonus game, the annular portions 6 and 7 (light emitters 8 and 9) are caused to emit light all at once or all around the lamp display portions 10, 12, and 13 The player is notified by turning on or blinking.

  On the other hand, in an actual game hall, as shown in FIG. 2, a ball lending device A is provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and a bill or a coin is inserted into the ball lending device A through a nozzle B. A game ball is supplied to the gaming machine 1 (in reality, an upper plate 18 described later). The nozzle B is configured to be rotatable about the base C toward the front side and to be able to be flipped upward. In such a case, if the nozzle B is in the sphere supply position as shown in the drawing, there is a risk that the nozzle B and the annular portion 6 on the front surface of the front door 4 will interfere with each other. A notch-like recess 15 is formed in a part of the constricted portion 6 b, and an intermediate portion of the nozzle B is arranged in the recess 15. Specifically, the concave portion 15 is provided at a height position directly above the upper plate 18 so as to form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the operation unit 100 (the bulging portion on the front side of the gaming machine) described later. Further, the recess 15 has a dimension in the height direction that does not hinder the nozzle B from being rotated and disposed at the ball supply position.

  Due to the concave portion 15, replenishment of game balls can be suitably performed through the nozzle B regardless of the three-dimensional modeling of the front surface of the gaming machine 1. In addition, the light emitter 8 is embedded in the recess 15 like the other annular portions 6. Therefore, even if the concave portion 15 is provided in a notch shape, the annular portions 6 and 7 emit light so as to include the concave portion 15, and the overall impression is not impaired. Note that the upper surface wall of the recess 15 may be an inclined surface whose upper side is the upper side. Thus, when the nozzle B disposed in the recess 15 is flipped upward, the nozzle B can be easily lifted along the inclined surface of the recess 15.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that a game is performed on the condition that a game ball (including a virtual game ball) is inserted, and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out when the predetermined condition is satisfied. ing. A configuration for using a game ball as a game medium will be described below. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, an upper plate unit 17 as a ball tray unit is detachably attached to the back set board 16 attached and fixed to the front frame 3 below the front side. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the upper plate unit 17.

  An upper plate 18 as a ball storage unit is formed in the upper plate unit 17, and the upper plate 18 has a main upper plate unit 18 a as a first storage region that communicates with an inlet to the take-in device 23, and the upper plate 18. And a secondary upper tray 18b as a second storage region located on the upstream side. The main upper plate 18a stores game balls paid out by a payout mechanism described later, while the sub upper plate 18b is supplied from a ball lending nozzle B (see FIG. 2). Is guided to the main upper plate 18a. The game balls in the main upper plate portion 18a flow into the insertion port through the ball guide unit 19, and are fed to the take-in device 23 (see FIG. 3) from this insertion port. The ball guide unit 19 is configured so that gaming balls can be arranged in a line and supplied to the ball outlet, and a stainless cover (protective cover) 20 is attached to the ball guide unit 19. The main upper plate 18a and the sub upper plate 18b are provided so as to be folded back and forth, the sub upper plate 18b is inclined somewhat downward toward the left side of FIG. 5, and the main upper plate 18a is It is inclined somewhat downward toward the right side of FIG. Therefore, the game balls in the main upper plate 18a and the sub upper plate 18b flow in the downstream order in order and are guided toward the take-in device 23.

  In addition, mounting fixing portions 21 are provided at both left and right ends of the upper plate unit 17, and the upper plate unit 17 is mounted on the back set plate 16 by fastening the mounting fixing portion 21 to the back set plate 16 side. (The mounting state is shown in FIG. 3). The upper plate unit 17 is detached from the back set board 16 by releasing the fastening of the mounting fixing portion 21. As long as the mounting fixing portion 21 is detachable from the back set board 16, the fastening method may be arbitrary, and a one-push type fastening in which a fastener (ny latch) is pushed into a fastened hole provided on the back set board 16 side. A method, a method of screwing a male screw into a screw hole provided on the back set board 16 side, or the like can be applied.

  When the front door 4 is closed while the upper plate unit 17 is mounted on the back set board 16, the upper plate unit 17 is fixed between the back set board 16 and the front door 4. As shown in FIG. 5, the upper plate unit 17 is provided with a flange 22 extending in the longitudinal direction, and the flange 22 is sandwiched between the back surface of the front door 4. That is, since the holding recess is formed at the corresponding position on the back surface of the front door 4 so as to sandwich the flange 22, the upper plate unit 17 is prevented from falling off when the front door 4 is closed, The weight of a large amount of game balls stored in the upper plate 18 can also be supported. Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a portion of the front door 4 corresponding to the upper plate unit 17 (the operation unit 100) bulges to the front side, and the upper surface of the bulged portion opens. ing. For this reason, when the front door 4 is in the closed state, the upper plate 18 of the upper plate unit 17 is opened above the bulging portion (operation unit 100). With the above configuration, the upper plate unit 17 can be easily detached from the main body of the gaming machine or the front door 4, and after the upper plate unit 17 is removed, the upper plate 18 (particularly the ball guide portion 19) is cleaned. Is easier to do. In addition, inspection, repair, and the like of the operation unit 100 described later can be easily performed from the back side of the front door 4. In other words, maintenance is improved. The bulging portion of the front door 4 is an operation unit 100, and a display unit 120 is provided on the front door 4 immediately above the operation unit 100. The configurations of the operation unit 100 and the display unit 120 will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the upper plate unit 17 or the front panel 50 for mounting the unit 17 is provided with two outlets 51 and 52 at positions where the left and right ends of the upper plate 18 are separated. The game ball is discharged into the upper plate 18 through the discharge ports 51 and 52. That is, as described above, the upper plate 18 is provided with the main upper plate portion 18a and the auxiliary upper plate portion 18b so as to be folded back, and the discharge port 51 is provided at the most upstream portion of the main upper plate portion 18a and the auxiliary upper plate portion 18b. , 52 are provided. In other words, the discharge port 51 corresponds to the first discharge port, and the discharge port 52 corresponds to the second discharge port.

  The take-in device 23 is provided on the back set board 16, and a predetermined number of game balls are taken in via the take-in device 23 based on a game ball throwing-in operation or a credit operation by the player. Each time a predetermined number of game balls are taken in, a game (game) start condition is met and preparations for game start are made. At this time, a predetermined number of game balls are taken in and then discharged to the outside of the gaming machine through a discharge passage (not shown).

  Further, on the back side of the back set board 16, a payout mechanism for paying out game balls when a predetermined condition is established during the game is provided. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, a tank 25 is provided at the uppermost part on the back side of the back set board 16, and game balls supplied from the island facilities of the game hall are sequentially supplied to the tank 25. A tank rail 26 is connected to the lower side of the tank 25, and a case rail 27 is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 26. The payout device 28 is provided on the downstream side of the case rail 27, and a required number of game balls are paid out by a predetermined electrical configuration. Then, the game balls paid out from the payout device 28 are supplied to the upper plate 18 through the payout passage unit 29. Details of the payout passage unit 29 will be described later.

  The payout mechanisms such as the tank rail 26, the case rail 27, and the payout device 28 are arranged so as to bypass a belt unit 70 (actually a protective cover 135 surrounding the belt unit 70) described later. Further, in FIG. 4 (rear view of the gaming machine 1), the front frame 3 is pivotally supported in the upper and lower portions at the right end so as to be openable and closable, and the above-described payout mechanism is disposed on the shaft side. In this case, a large number of game balls are stored in the payout mechanism, and the weight of the game ball naturally increases. However, since the payout mechanism is provided on the shaft side, the front frame 3 can be opened and closed without hindrance. Moreover, since the weight burden concerning a shaft member (hinges 31 and 32) is reduced at this time, the effect which protects a coaxial member (hinges 31 and 32) is also acquired collectively. Since the take-in device 23 is also provided on the shaft side in the same manner as the payout mechanism, all the mechanisms relating to the handling of the game balls are integrated on the shaft side, and it becomes easy to deal with problems related to the flow of the game balls.

  When the throwing operation or the like is performed, the take-in device 23 is activated, whereby a predetermined number of game balls on the upper plate 18 are taken in. In addition, when a predetermined condition is established during the game, the payout device 28 is activated, whereby the game balls stored in the tank 25 are basically transferred to the upper plate 18 via the payout passage unit 29 and the like. To be paid out.

  Next, the configuration of the payout passage unit 29 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a view of the configuration of the payout passage unit 29 as viewed from the front side of the gaming machine 1, and virtually shows a state where a large amount of game balls are stored in the passage.

  The game balls paid out from the payout device 28 are introduced into the passage entrance 54 via the guide passage 53. The payout passage 55 extends in two upper and lower stages toward the discharge port 51 on the right side of the gaming machine. Normally, the game ball introduced into the passage entrance 54 enters the discharge passage 55 and flows down toward the discharge port 51. . Then, the game ball is discharged from the discharge port 51 to the upper plate 18 (main upper plate portion 18a). The payout passage 55 has a width that allows game balls to be arranged in several rows (five rows or more) in the front-rear direction (the direction orthogonal to the plane of FIG. 7). In this case, the combined capacity of the payout passage 55 and the upper plate (main upper plate portion 18a) is a capacity that can store game balls to be paid out in the occurrence of one special game state (big bonus game or regular bonus game). It has become. Therefore, after the occurrence of the special game state, a game equivalent to one payout game ball in the special game state can be continuously carried out without replenishment of the game ball, and frequent game ball replenishment work is required. The inconvenience can be solved.

  Further, a bypass passage 56 that connects the dispensing device 28 and the upper plate 18 at the shortest distance is connected to the passage entrance 54. The bypass passage 56 is a passage through which excess game balls flow down when the inside of the payout passage 55 is filled with game balls. By using the bypass passage 56, the bypass passage 56 is almost directly connected to the upper plate 18. A game ball is paid out. As shown in FIG. 6, the bypass passage 56 is provided so as to extend in front of the gaming machine, and the game ball that has passed through the bypass passage 56 is discharged to the auxiliary upper plate 18 b through the discharge port 52. In this case, the game balls are paid out to the upper plate 18 without storing the game balls inside the game machine (the payout passage 55). The payout passage 55 corresponds to a first payout passage, and the bypass passage 56 corresponds to a second payout passage. In FIG. 7, reference numeral 57 denotes a lower tray discharge passage for discharging excess game balls to the lower tray 41.

  Therefore, the game balls paid out from the payout device 28 are normally discharged through the route of the guide passage 53 → the passage inlet 54 → the payout passage 55 → the discharge port 51 and stored in the main upper plate portion 18 a of the upper plate 18. . Further, when a special game state occurs, game balls for at least one special game state are stored in the payout passage 55 and the main upper plate 18a. For example, when the special game state repeatedly occurs, the game ball flows into the bypass passage 56, and the game ball is discharged from the discharge port 52 and stored in the auxiliary upper plate 18b.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1 and the like, a lower plate 41 is formed in the lower plate unit 5 provided below the front surface of the front door 4, and a lower plate discharge port 42 is formed on the back side of the lower plate unit 5. ing. When the game balls are fully stored in the upper plate 18 and the payout passage 55 and the game balls are paid out from the payout device 28, the lower plate discharge passage 57 and the lower plate discharge port 42 are provided. The game balls are also paid out to the lower plate 41. A speaker 43 is provided above the lower dish outlet 42. An ashtray 44 is formed adjacent to the lower plate 41.

  The lower surface of the operation unit 100 including the bulging portion on the front surface of the front door 4 is cut out in a trapezoidal shape (convex shape) (in fact, a lower part of a stop button operation surface 113 described later is cut out). The speaker 43 is installed in an area formed by the notch. The speaker 43 has a horizontally long shape in order to ensure a sufficient sound volume in a space limited in the vertical direction. A space below the operation unit 100 (a space formed by the cutout) is also a space in which a hand is inserted in order to scrape out the game balls stored in the lower plate 41. In this case, in the lower space of the operation unit 100, the speaker 43 is surrounded by the operation unit 100 on the upper side and the left and right sides, and the lower plate 41 (lower plate unit 5) on the lower side.

  A ball punching hole 45 is formed in the lower tray unit 5, and a ball punching mechanism (not shown) is interlocked by pressing the ball punching button 46, and the game balls stored in the lower tray 41 are discharged downward from the ball punching hole 45. It has come to be.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 8, when the front door 4 is closed, the front door 4 is provided with a front panel 60 at a position immediately in front of the belt unit 70. Two display windows 61, 62, 63 are provided. The display windows 61 to 63 are provided side by side, and the inside can be visually recognized through the display windows 61 to 63.

  Further, a front light member 64 having a panel shape is similarly attached to the back surface of the front panel 60 so as to overlap. The front light member 64 constitutes a light emitting means, and is a transparent light guide that introduces light from the light source (light) and the light from the light source along the panel surface, reflects the light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the panel surface, and emits the light outside the panel. And an optical panel. That is, according to the front light member 64, surface light emission is performed substantially vertically toward the rear thereof, and a belt surface (symbol) of the belt unit 70 described later is illuminated brightly. In this case, surface light emission is performed with respect to the visible range of the symbols by the display windows 61 to 63. In the present embodiment, a light source is individually provided for each of the display windows 61 to 63. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, light sources 65, 66, and 67 and inverters 65a, 66a, and 67a corresponding to them are individually provided.

  Next, the configuration of the belt unit 70 as a display device will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 8 to 10. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the belt unit 70 taken out from the gaming machine body. In FIG. 9, the front surface of the belt unit 70, that is, the symbol display surface is shown on the left front side. FIG. 10 is a front view of the belt unit 70 as seen from the back side.

  The belt unit 70 is installed on the back set board 16 from the front on the back side of the front door 4. That is, the belt unit 70 includes a metal case 80 (case member) having a square box shape. The case 80 includes a back surface portion 80a on the back surface side of the belt unit 70 and left and right and upper and lower side wall portions 80b. Further, the case 80 is provided with support fixing portions 81 which are fixed portions at two upper portions by bending a part thereof. A mounting bracket 82 is attached to the support fixing portion 81, and the case 80 is attached and fixed to the back set panel 16 via the mounting bracket 82. As shown in FIG. 9, locking holes 83, 84, and 85 are provided in the lower portion of the case 80, and locking portions (not shown) on the back set panel 16 side are provided in the locking holes 83 to 85. By being locked, the lower end of the belt unit is positioned in the front-rear direction. In other words, a plurality (for example, two) of the respective locking holes 83 to 85 are provided in the front and rear, and the inclination angle of the belt unit 70 is determined depending on which of the front and rear locking holes 83 to 85 is used. Yes.

  Further, the case 80 accommodates a left rotator 71, a middle rotator 72, and a right rotator 73 that constitute a pattern changing unit. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 includes a driving roller 74 and a driven roller 75 that are rotatably supported by the case 80, and a belt that is stretched between the rollers 74 and 75. (Endless belt) 76. The drive roller 74 is provided with a plurality of external teeth 74a at equal intervals on the left and right edges along the rotation direction, and the driven roller 75 is similarly provided with a plurality of teeth on the left and right edges along the rotation direction. The external teeth 75a are provided at equal intervals. On the other hand, the belt 76 is provided with engaging holes 76a at the same intervals as the external teeth 74a and 75a on both the left and right edges. The belt 76 is stretched around the rollers 74 and 75 so that the engagement hole 76a of the belt 76 is engaged with the external teeth 74a and 75a of the rollers 74 and 75. In the present embodiment, the driven roller 75 has a smaller diameter than the drive roller 74, but they may have the same diameter or the driven roller 75 may have a larger diameter. Moreover, although the driving roller 74 is arranged on the upper side and the driven roller 75 is arranged on the lower side, they may be arranged upside down. Under such a configuration, the belt 76 (rotating bodies 71 to 73) is formed in a flat shape as a whole, unlike the case where the rotating body is configured by a circular reel.

  The driving roller 74 of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is connected to motors 77, 78, and 79 each formed of a stepping motor or the like. The rotating bodies 71 to 73 are driven to rotate individually, that is, independently, by driving the motors 77 to 79. When the rotating bodies 71 to 73 are rotated, the rotating bodies 71 to 73 (each belt 76) are visually recognized through the display windows 61 to 63 as if moving from top to bottom. Note that the roller mechanism described above can be changed to another mechanism using a pulley, a gear, or the like.

  On the outer surface of each belt 76, a large number of symbols (symbols) which are pictures as identification information are attached. Among these symbols, the number of symbols visible through the display windows 61 to 63 is limited to a predetermined number mainly determined by the vertical length of the display windows 61 to 63. In the present embodiment, the vertical lengths of the display windows 61 to 63 are set so that three symbols can be visually recognized for each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73.

  In front of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73, a plate member 86 is provided as a blinding means for concealing the engagement hole 76a of each belt 76. The plate member 86 is provided in common with each rotating body so as to extend in the arrangement direction of the rotating bodies 71 to 73, and the vertically long through holes 87, 88, 89 corresponding to the respective rotating bodies 71 to 73. Is formed. The through holes 87 to 89 have substantially the same size as the display windows 61 to 63, and the engagement holes 76a of the belts 76 are hidden from the front by the plate portions on both sides of the through holes 87 to 89. It has become. In this case, the plate member 86 is disposed in the belt circumferential region between the driving roller 74 and the driven roller 75, and is disposed in close proximity to the belt 76 so as not to contact the belt 76. . Further, a light collecting plate 90 in which a part of the plate member 86 is bent at a predetermined angle is provided above and below each of the through holes 87 to 89, and light emitted from the front light member 64 is emitted by the light collecting plate 90. It can be collected in the central direction. The plate member 86 is fixedly attached to both side surfaces of the case 80 by left and right attachment portions 91.

  Further, the belt unit 70 is provided with a backlight 92 (rear light emitting means) for illuminating a symbol visible through the display windows 61 to 63 from the rear. The backlight 92 is composed of a fluorescent lamp or the like, and is disposed between the driving roller 74 and the driven roller 75.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the back surface (back surface portion 80 a) of the case 80 has a main board (main control device) 131 that comprehensively manages various controls related to games, and is subordinate to the main board 131. A sub-board (sub-control device) 132 that operates in a line is arranged so as to be arranged side by side. That is, in the present embodiment, the main board 131 and the sub board 132 are integrated with the belt unit 70. As a fixing method of the main board 131 and the sub board 132, fixing by screws, fixing by locking a locking tool such as a hook, and the like can be considered.

  The main board 131 includes a CPU that controls the main control, a ROM that stores a game program, a RAM that stores necessary data according to the progress of the game, a port for communicating with various devices, and a random number generator used in various lotteries. And a control circuit board including a clock pulse generation circuit used for counting time and synchronizing. Similarly, the sub-board 132 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like. The main board 131 and the sub board 132 are both housed in a transparent or non-transparent control board box, and are fixed to the case back surface of the belt unit 70 in a state of being housed in the control board box.

  When the rotating bodies 71 to 73 of the belt unit 70 are rotationally driven, if the rotation and the stop are repeated, the influence of vibration may reach the main board 131 and the sub board 132. Therefore, a vibration absorbing mount member (shock absorbing member) may be interposed between the case 80 and the main substrate 131 and the sub substrate 132 (however, illustration is omitted). As the mounting member, a sheet made of rubber or resin can be considered. 8 and 9, reference numeral 93 denotes a relay board for relaying the drive output from the main board 131 to the motors 77 to 79.

  Here, the belt unit 70 is tilted somewhat according to the player's line-of-sight direction and is attached to the gaming machine main body. Therefore, the back portion 80a of the case 80 is also tilted. In this case, the main board 131 and the sub board 132 are arranged in an empty space formed by the inclination of the belt unit 70 (the back surface portion 80a of the case 80). Therefore, the free space can be used effectively.

  As shown in FIG. 4, in a state where the belt unit 70 having the above configuration is attached to the gaming machine body, the belt unit 70 is surrounded by a colorless and transparent (or translucent) protective cover 135 as a cover member. The protective cover 135 is fixed to the back set board 16 so as to be open at least on the front side of the gaming machine, and has a sufficient size to surround the entire belt unit 70. In this case, since the main board 131 and the sub board 132 are integrated with the belt unit 70, the main board 131 and the sub board 132 are similarly surrounded by the protective cover 135. Therefore, even if a game ball falls from the supply path of game balls, island facilities, or the like, the fall ball can be prevented from hitting the belt unit 70 or the respective boards 131 and 132. Reference numeral 135a in the figure is a vent hole.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the back set panel 16 is provided with a power supply unit 133 as a power supply device below the belt unit 70. The power supply unit 133 includes a power supply board for supplying power necessary for the control device such as the main board 131 and the sub board 132 described above, and the other payout device 28, a colorless and transparent board box that accommodates the power supply board, A metal plate for noise suppression for eliminating noise generated inside and outside the power supply board is provided, and these are integrally assembled.

  Next, the symbols attached to the belts 76 of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 will be described. FIG. 11 shows a symbol arrangement for the belt 76 of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73. This figure can be viewed as a developed view of the surface of the belt 76. As shown in the figure, each belt 76 is provided with 20 symbols in a row. In the figure, a serial number of 1 to 20 is attached to the left side of each symbol, and the number will be appropriately used in the following description. The belts 76 of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 are different in the number of the same symbols and the arrangement order, but only one of them is illustrated and described here for convenience.

  As symbols, (1) “7” symbol (for example, the 19th symbol in FIG. 11) as a big bonus symbol for shifting to the big bonus game, (2) regular bonus symbol for shifting to the regular bonus game “BAR” symbol (for example, the 20th symbol in FIG. 11), (3) “Replay symbol” (for example, the 17th symbol in FIG. 11) for shifting to the replay game, The “watermelon” symbol (for example, the 18th symbol in FIG. 11), the “bell” symbol (for example, the sixteenth symbol in FIG. 11), the “cherry” symbol (for example, FIG. 11) as the small role symbol to be paid out. 15th design).

  In the present embodiment, when the “7” symbol, which is a combination of the big bonus symbols, is aligned with the left, middle, and right on the effective line described later, 75 game balls are paid out and the big bonus game is played. When the “BAR” symbol, which is a combination of regular bonus symbols, is aligned with the left, middle, and right on the active line, 75 game balls are paid out and the regular bonus game is entered. A rush is made. Further, when the “replay” symbols are aligned with the left, middle, and right on the active line, the game balls are not paid out and the player enters the replay game.

  Furthermore, regarding the small role design, when the “Watermelon” design is aligned with the left, middle, and right on the active line, 75 game balls are paid out, and the “Bell” design is on the left, middle, and right on the active line. In the event that they are aligned, 40 gaming balls are paid out. Further, when the “cherry” symbol of the left rotating body 71 is stopped on the active line, 10 game balls are paid out. In other words, the “cherry” symbols of the middle rotator 72 and the right rotator 73 are irrelevant to the payout of the game ball, and are meaningless in other words. In addition, for the “cherry” symbol, the game ball is paid out regardless of the combination with other symbols, and therefore the position where the plurality of effective lines of the left rotating body 71 overlap (specifically, the upper or lower level). ), When the “cherry” symbol is stopped, game balls are paid out by multiplying the number of the overlapping active lines. As a result, in this embodiment, 20 game balls are A payout is made.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the gaming machine 1 has three display windows 61 to 63 connected to each other, three in parallel in the horizontal direction, and two in the diagonal direction. Five active lines are set. That is, as the effective lines, upper, middle, and lower horizontal lines (upper line, center line, and lower line) and a pair of diagonal lines (upward and rightward lines) are set. Of course, the maximum number of effective lines may be 6 or more, or less than 5, and the maximum number of effective lines may be changed according to a predetermined condition. As shown in FIG. 2, a bet number display unit 95 is provided on the left side when viewed from the front of the display windows 61 to 63, and the bet number display unit 95 responds to the activated line activated each time. The number of bets is displayed in segments. In order to make it easier for the player to understand the effective line, a line display unit that explicitly displays the line activated according to the number of bets may be provided.

  In the bet number display section 95, “1” is displayed as a segment when only one line consisting of the center line is activated. In the present embodiment, in order to validate this one line, it is necessary to throw in five game balls (one bet). Also, in the bet number display section 95, “2” is displayed as a segment when only three lines including the upper and lower lines and the center line are activated. In the present embodiment, it is necessary to insert 10 game balls (2 bets) in order to activate these 3 lines. Further, in the bet number display section 95, “5” is displayed as a segment when 5 lines including all active lines (upper, middle, lower lines, right up and down lines) are activated. In the present embodiment, in order to activate these 5 lines, it is necessary to insert 15 game balls (3 bets). That is, in the present embodiment, the minimum number of game balls (predetermined number) necessary for one game is set to “5”, and the maximum number of game balls that can be thrown into one game is maximum. The number (maximum number of inputs) is set to “15”.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, on the left side of the operation unit 100 provided in the bulging portion of the front door 4, the rotating bodies 71 to 73 are started simultaneously (not necessarily simultaneously). For this purpose, a start lever 101 is provided. The start lever 101 constitutes start operation means that is operated to start variable display. A stop button operation surface 113 is provided on the right side of the start lever 101, and stop buttons 102, 103, and 104 are provided on the stop button operation surface 113 for individually stopping the rotating rotators 71 to 73. It has been. The stop buttons 102 to 104 are provided for the display windows 61 to 63 corresponding to the rotating bodies 71 to 73 to be stopped, respectively. The stop buttons 102 to 104 constitute stop means for stopping the variable display and stop operation means operated to stop the variable display. In the present embodiment, the rotating bodies 71 to 73 are configured to stop when a predetermined time elapses without the stop buttons 102 to 104 being pressed.

  A flat operation assisting surface 105 is formed on the upper surface of the operation unit 100 (the bulging portion of the front door 4). The operation assisting surface 105 is provided in an arch shape so as to surround the upper tray 18 behind it, and an opening 106 having substantially the same shape as the upper tray 18 is formed between the operation assisting surface 105 and the front surface of the gaming machine. When the front door 4 is closed, the upper plate 18 opens upward through the opening 106. Further, the operation assisting surface 105 is provided with a slight inclination so as to descend toward the front (front side). However, there may be no inclination, and conversely, it may be an inclination that descends backward.

  Here, the portion directly above the stop buttons 102 to 104 (stop button operation surface 113) on the operation assisting surface 105 has a substantially uniform width in the front-rear direction, and the rear edge of the operation assisting surface 105 (L portion in FIG. 1). ) Is configured in a straight line. In this case, assuming that the player presses each of the stop buttons 102 to 104 with the thumb, another finger such as an index finger or a middle finger may be put on the rear edge (L portion) of the operation assisting surface 105. By moving the hand to the left and right in this state, the stop buttons 102 to 104 can be continuously pressed along the operation assisting surface 105. In other words, the above pressing operation can be performed by placing a finger on the upper plate portion. In short, since the operation assisting surface 105 is flat and the rear edge thereof is a straight line, the operation assisting surface 105 is used to perform the continuous pressing operation of the stop buttons 102 to 104 quickly and smoothly. Can do.

  Further, the upper plate 18 (in this embodiment, in particular, the sub-upper plate portion 18 shown in FIG. 5) may be provided with a step or an inclination so that the operation assisting surface 105 side is slightly raised. . That is, a height difference is provided so that the front of the upper plate 18 is high and the rear is low. According to this, even if game balls are stored in the upper plate 18, many of them are stored in a lower part of the upper plate 18 (that is, a part away from the operation assisting surface 105). Therefore, in the case where the upper plate 18 is used as a finger rest, the inconvenience that the finger and the game ball interfere can be avoided.

  Further, an information sticker S2 describing game information and the like is attached to the operation assisting surface 105. That is, the operation assisting surface 105 is also an information sticker pasting surface.

  Above the start lever 101 (that is, on the left hand side for the player), the operation assisting surface 105 of the operation unit 100 is provided with a button-like bet switch that constitutes an input means for inserting a game ball. . In the present embodiment, a 1-bet switch 107, a 2-bet switch 108, and a max-bet switch 109 are provided as bet switches. Each of the bet switches 107 to 109 is for inserting a required number of game balls as game media (or storage game media).

  The 1-bet switch 107 is set so that five game balls are inserted every time a pressing operation is performed. More specifically, when there are a predetermined number (five) or more of virtual gaming balls credited in the credit mode described later, the virtual gaming ball is credited up to that point by one press operation of the 1-bet switch 107. "5" is subtracted from the number. Further, when the number of virtual game balls is less than a predetermined number or in the direct mode other than the credit mode, “5” game balls on the upper plate 18 are collected and taken in by one press operation of the 1-bet switch 107. It is supposed to be.

  Further, the 2-bet switch 108 is set so that ten game balls are inserted every time a pressing operation is performed. More specifically, when there are a predetermined number (10) or more of virtual game balls credited in the credit mode described later, the virtual game ball is credited up to that point by one press operation of the 2-bet switch 108. "10" is subtracted from the number. Further, when the number of virtual game balls is less than the predetermined number or in the direct mode that is not the credit mode, “10” game balls on the upper plate 18 are collected and taken in by one press operation of the 2-bet switch 108. It is supposed to be.

  Further, the maximum bet switch 109 is provided so that a plurality of (three times) pressing operations such as the 1 betting switch 107 can be omitted. The game balls are set to be inserted (for 3 bets). More specifically, when there are a predetermined number (15) or more of virtual game balls credited in the credit mode, which will be described later, the virtual game ball is credited up to that point by one press operation of the max bet switch 109. "15" is subtracted from the number. In addition, when the number of virtual game balls is less than a predetermined number or in the direct mode that is not the credit mode, “15” game balls on the upper plate 18 are collected and taken in by one pressing operation of the max bet switch 109. It is supposed to be. The actual game balls are taken in by the take-in device 23 as described above. However, during the big bonus game in the special game state, five (one bet) game balls are inserted by one press operation of the max bet switch 109.

  In the present embodiment, the maximum bet (3 bets) is reached when the 5 lines are activated (15 game balls are inserted). That is, for example, when the 1-bet switch 107 is pressed three times or the max-bet switch 109 is pressed once, no further insertion is performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the maximum bet (3 bets) state is reached and the bet switches 107 to 109 are further pressed, the operation is invalidated. However, if the bet switches 107 to 109 are further pressed after reaching the maximum bet (3 bets), game balls corresponding to the extra operation are stored and stored as credits (virtual game balls). It is also possible to make it.

  Further, in the operation unit 100, a button-like changeover switch 110 is provided in the vicinity of the start lever 101. In addition, a settlement switch 111 is provided on the operation assisting surface 105 in the right part of the operation unit 100.

  The changeover switch 110 is operated to change the handling format of game balls that have already been taken in and stored, and game balls that are paid out to the player as a result of establishment of a predetermined condition. That is, for example, when power is turned on, excess game balls up to a predetermined maximum value (for example, 250 game balls: maximum memory number) are stored and stored as credits (virtual game balls: stored game media) and paid out. “Credit mode” is set so that the played game balls are stored and stored as credits (virtual game balls). When the changeover switch 110 is pressed, if there is a credit, the corresponding game balls are used as real game balls. The surplus game balls and acquired game balls are also switched to the “direct mode” set so as to be paid out directly as actual game balls. If the “credit mode” and the “direct mode” are alternately switched each time the change-over switch 110 is operated, the player can execute the game in a format according to his / her preference. The changeover switch 110 constitutes a changeover operation means for changing over the input value and game value handling formats.

  Further, the settlement switch 111 is for discharging the game balls stored in the upper tray 18 to the lower tray 41. That is, when the player finishes the game and tries to take out the game ball stored in the upper plate 18, the game ball in the upper plate 18 is moved to the lower plate 41 by pressing the settlement switch 111. Discharged. At this time, in order to prevent a malfunction, a condition for enabling the operation only when the settlement switch 111 is pressed for a predetermined time or more may be added.

  In addition to this, the settlement switch 111 may also have a function of paying out a game ball once taken in by a pressing operation of each of the bet switches 107 to 109 and a game ball credited in the credit mode. More specifically, in the game, (a) a game ball taken in by pressing the bet switches 107 to 109, (b) a game ball credited under the credit mode, and (c) stored in the upper plate 18. If any of the above (a) to (c) exists for the game balls being played, the game is played in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) every time the settlement switch 111 is pressed once. The sphere is settled. That is, at this time, when the settlement switch 111 is pressed a total of three times, all the game balls (A) to (C) are discharged (settled) to the lower plate 41. If one or two of the game balls (b) to (c) are applicable, the corresponding game ball is settled with the pressing operation of the settlement switch 111 each time ( The order of priority is (I) → (B) → (C)). Incidentally, instead of the settlement switch 111, a configuration in which the game ball of the upper plate 18 is discharged to the lower plate 41 by a lever slide operation may be employed. It is also possible to individually provide switches for adjusting the game balls of the above (a) to (c).

  Further, the display unit 120 of the front door 4 displays a remaining number display unit 121 as a stored number display unit that displays the number of game balls that are activated and stored in the credit mode, and the number of acquired game balls. An acquisition number display unit 122 and an information display unit 123 for displaying information (for example, the number of games, etc.) during the big bonus game are provided. In the present embodiment, each of the display units 121 to 123 is constituted by a 7-digit display of 3 digits or 2 digits, but the number of digits is not particularly limited, and may be replaced by a liquid crystal display or the like. Of course it is also possible.

  By the way, in the present embodiment, as described above, the maximum storage number in the credit mode is set to, for example, “250” (corresponding to 50 bets). The remaining number display section 121 can display the number of stored memories from “0” to “250”. In the credit mode, the number displayed on the remaining number display portion 121 is displayed by subtracting 5 for each bet (15 for the maximum bet). Therefore, if the numerical value displayed on the remaining number display unit 121 is not a multiple of 5, the player indicates that the currently stored storage number is a fraction between “0” and “4”. Can be easily recognized.

  Note that various notification units (not shown) such as a big notification unit, a replay notification unit, and a small role notification unit may be appropriately provided on the upper portion of the gaming machine 1 (front door 4). These various notification units may be provided in places other than the upper part of the gaming machine 1, or different types of notification may be performed by a common notification unit. Moreover, you may utilize the annular parts 6 and 7 as this alerting | reporting part. For example, when the “7” symbols are aligned on the active line when the rotating bodies 71 to 73 are stopped, the big notification unit displays and notifies that the big bonus game has been acquired by lighting, flashing, or the like. When the “replay” symbols are aligned on the active line when the rotation of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped, the replay notification unit notifies the player that the replay game has been acquired by lighting, flashing, or the like. When the “watermelon” symbol as the small role symbol is aligned on the effective line when the rotation of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped, the small symbol notification unit lights up, flashes, etc. that a predetermined number of game balls have been acquired. Display notification. In addition, although each of these alerting | reporting parts decided to alert | report by display, you may alert | report by the audio | voice with the speaker 11 with which it replaces with this or in addition to this, the gaming machine 1 (upper part of the front door 4).

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration in the gaming machine 1. In the figure, double arrows indicate the connection and direction of the power supply, and normal arrows indicate the connection and direction of the signal. Power from the power supply unit 133 (power supply board) is supplied to the main board 131 and the dispensing device 28. Further, power is supplied to the sub board 132 via the main board 131.

  On the input side of the main board 131, a start detection sensor 141 that detects the operation of the start lever 101, stop detection sensors 142, 143, and 144 that individually detect the operations of the stop buttons 102 to 104, and a press of the 1-bet switch 107 A 1-bet detection sensor 145 that detects an operation, a 2-bet detection sensor 146 that detects a pressing operation of the 2-bet switch 108, a max-bet detection sensor 147 that detects a pressing operation of the max-bet switch 109, and a pressing operation of the changeover switch 110 are detected. Switching detection sensor 148, rotational position detection sensors 151, 152, 153 for individually detecting the rotational positions (origin positions) of the respective rotating bodies 71 to 73 (belt 76), and payout for detecting a game ball paid out from the payout device 28 Detection sensor 154 and play taken in from take-in device 23 A count sensor 155 for detecting a ball, and a storage ball detection sensor 156 for detecting whether or not one bet (5 pieces) or max bet (15 pieces) of game balls can be taken at once in the take-in device 23. Various sensors such as are connected.

  The payout device 28 is connected to the output side of the main board 131 via a power supply unit 133. In addition, on the output side of the main board 131, the motors 77, 78, 79, the bet number display unit 95, the remaining number display unit 121, the acquired number display unit 122, the information display unit 123, and the capture device A solenoid 125 for opening the gate at 23 is connected.

  Further, a sub-board 132 is connected to the output side of the main board 131. The light emitters 8 and 9, the lamp display units 10, 12 and 13, the speakers 11 and 43, the front light member 64 and the like are connected to the output side of the sub-substrate 132. From the main board 131, game information at that time is transmitted as a signal to the sub board 132. The sub-board 132 to which signals relating to each game information are input executes various effects based on various signals and based on its own control program. In the present embodiment, the sub-substrate 132 constitutes “light emitter control means”, “front light control means”, and the like. Incidentally, the light emitter control refers to control in which the light emitters 8 and 9 in the annular portions 6 and 7 are circulated in one direction or both directions, and the light emitters 8 and 9 are turned on all at once. Further, the front light control means that each of the front light members 64 corresponding to each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is matched to the stop order in order to teach the player the order of stopping the belt 76 of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73. Control that causes the light sources 65 to 67 to emit light in order.

  As described above, the main board 131 and the sub board 132 include the CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like. However, in the following description, the main board 131 and the sub board 132 are realized without being restricted by their actual configurations. This will be explained as a collection of means. That is, the various functions described below are functions realized under the control of the CPU, and the control program is based on the storage contents of the ROM (or RAM in some cases), and the necessary data at that time is stored in the RAM. Although temporarily stored and held, those program requirements and the like can be achieved by those skilled in the art by adopting an appropriate table configuration or the like, and will not be described individually. However, a specific description will be given as appropriate in cases where it is necessary to grasp the game content of the present embodiment.

  The main board 131 includes “small role lottery means”. The small role lottery means performs a lottery to determine whether or not the small role payout condition is satisfied based on the timing at which the detection signal from the start detection sensor 141 is input, and thereby determines whether or not the small role flag is satisfied. The lottery for the small role is configured to change according to the number of game balls inserted (the number of bets) together with other lotteries. Generally, the larger the number of inserted balls, the more advantageous the lottery result can be obtained for the player. It has become.

  The main board 131 includes “small role control means”. When the small combination flag is established during the normal game, the small combination control means applies a certain pull-in stop control while referring to the contents of the small combination establishment table described later when each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped. Semi-forcefully stop the small role symbol on the active line.

  The main board 131 includes “replay game lottery means”. The replay game lottery means draws whether or not the replay game transition condition is satisfied based on the timing when the detection signal from the start detection sensor 141 is input, and thereby determines whether or not the replay flag is satisfied.

  The main board 131 includes “replay game control means”. When the replay flag is established during the normal game, the replay game control means applies a certain pull-in stop control while referring to the contents of a replay establishment table described later when each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped. Force the replay symbol to stop on the active line. Then, on the condition that the replay symbol stops on the active line, the next game can be performed free of charge. Of course, various lotteries are also executed when this replay game is performed.

  The main board 131 includes “big bonus lottery means”. The big bonus lottery means performs a lottery to determine whether or not the big bonus transition condition is established at the timing when the detection signal from the start detection sensor 141 is input, and thereby determines the presence or absence of the big bonus establishment flag.

  The main board 131 includes “big bonus control means”. When the big bonus flag is established during the normal game, the big bonus control means applies a certain pull-in stop control while referring to the contents of the big bonus establishment table described later when each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped. Semi-forcefully stop the big bonus symbol on the active line. Then, on the condition that the big bonus symbol stops on the active line, the big bonus game which is changed from the normal game which is the current game state to the special game state, with a predetermined number of games (here, 30 times) as an upper limit. After that, in principle, the original normal gaming state is restored.

  The main board 131 includes “big bonus medium lottery means”. The lottery means during the big bonus is activated only during the big bonus, and the lottery symbol lottery and jack-in lottery are performed at the timing when the detection signal from the start detection sensor 141 is input, and the small bonus flag and jack-in Whether the flag is established is determined. The big bonus control means refers to each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 while referring to the small role formation table so that a predetermined small role symbol (for example, “watermelon” symbol) is aligned on the effective line when the small role flag is established. Semi-forced pull-in stop control is performed.

  Further, the big bonus control means semi-forcibly pulls in and stops the rotation of each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 while referring to the contents of the replay establishment table in order to jack in when the jack-in flag is established. The jack-in is a state in which a predetermined bonus game is executed during the big bonus game, and specifically occurs when “replay” symbols are arranged. Therefore, for the jack-in execution, the big bonus control means semi-forcibly pulls in and stops the rotations 71 to 73 so that the jack-in symbols (replay symbols) are aligned on the effective line. When it is jacked in, a jack-in game is executed.

  Here, the jack-in game will be described. When the jack-in symbol stops at the active line, the game proceeds to the jack-in game, which is a special game in the big bonus game that is currently in a gaming state, with a predetermined number of games (here 12 times) as an upper limit. Then return to the original big bonus game. During the jack-in game, the effective line is only one line (center line). During the jack-in game, a predetermined symbol (in this case, a replay symbol) is drawn by the timing at which the detection signal from the start detection sensor 141 is input. Unlike the normal lottery, the symbol lottery is set so that a predetermined number (for example, 75) of game balls are paid out when the replay symbols are aligned with the active line (only the center line). With the symbol as a game ball payout symbol, a lottery is performed as to whether or not a condition for matching the game ball payout symbols is met. As a result of the lottery, when the replay flag (here, the replay flag is newly set for the jack-in game is different from the normal game), the game ball payout is established. The rotary bodies 71 to 73 are controlled so that symbols other than symbols are not aligned on the effective line, and when the game ball payout symbols are aligned a predetermined number of times (for example, 8 times), the predetermined number of games ( The predetermined bonus game ends even if it has not reached 12 times.

  Here, the big bonus game can be jacked in up to a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 times) within the predetermined number of games (30 times), and the number of games during the jack-in during the big bonus game is It is not added to 30 times. Then, the big bonus control means is configured to end the predetermined bonus game by the third jack-in when the predetermined bonus game is completed (three times) even within the predetermined number of games (30 times). Forcibly end the big bonus game.

  The main board 131 includes “rotor control means” and “storage means”. The rotator control means controls the rotators 71 to 73 according to the storage contents of the storage means, and in particular, the rotators 71 to 73 (drives) according to the storage contents of various tables stored in the storage means. The stop position of the roller 74 and the belt 76) is controlled.

  The various tables stored in the storage means (here, ROM but may be RAM) are individually set according to various established flags.

  Specifically, for example, when no flag is established, a “out-of-table” that prevents any symbol from being aligned on the active line, a predetermined small role symbol corresponding to the small role flag is valid “Position formation table” for aligning on the line, “Replay establishment table” for aligning the replay symbol on the effective line corresponding to the replay flag, and “7” symbol corresponding to the big bonus flag on the effective line In addition to a “big formation table” for aligning, the “line table” for determining on which effective line the above formation symbols are aligned. The storage unit also stores the number of virtual game balls in the credit mode.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 having the above configuration will be described based on the gaming method.

  At the start of the game, the player presses the bet switches 107 to 109 on the condition that there are a predetermined number of credits or a predetermined number of game balls on the upper plate 18, and the virtual game ball based on the stored memory Or, an actual game ball is inserted. The insertion is detected by each of the bet detection sensors 145 to 147. Upon receiving the detection signal, the main board 131 determines that a game ball (including a virtual game ball) has been inserted. At this time, in the credit mode, the stored and stored virtual game balls are inserted. For example, in the credit mode, when there is a storage number (credit number) of 15 or more and the max bet switch 109 is pressed, the remaining number display number in the remaining number display unit 121 is decreased by “15”. The storage means stores the number reduced by “15” as the stored storage number. On the other hand, when the maximum bet switch 109 is pressed when the stored number (credit number) is less than 15 or when the stored number (credit number) is less than 5, the 1-bet switch 107 is pressed. When it is operated, the pressing operation is invalidated.

  In the direct mode, the actual game ball on the upper plate 18 is taken in and thrown in. For example, in the direct mode, when the max bet switch 109 is pressed when 15 or more game balls are on the upper plate 18, 15 game balls on the upper plate 18 are moved by the take-in device 23. When the 1-bet switch 107 is pressed when five or more game balls are on the upper plate 18, five game balls on the upper plate 18 are taken in by the take-in device 23. On the other hand, when the max bet switch 109 is pressed when there are less than 15 game balls, or when the 1 bet switch 107 is pressed when there are only 5 gaming balls, the pressing operation is invalidated. Is done.

  The main board 131 displays the bet number display section 95 as a segment according to the number of game balls inserted (= the number of bets × 5). Here, if the one-press operation of the one-bet switch 107 (five game balls is thrown in), “1” is displayed on the bet number display section 95 and only one line consisting of the central line is activated. The If the 1-bet switch 107 is pressed twice or the 2-bet switch 108 is pressed once (10 game balls are thrown in), “2” is displayed on the bet number display portion 95. Three lines consisting of the upper and lower lines and the center line are activated. Further, if the max bet switch 109 is pressed (15 game balls are thrown in), “3” is displayed on the bet number display section 95, and five lines including upper and lower lines, a center line, and left and right diagonal lines are displayed. Is activated. In this embodiment, the bet number display section 95 displays the bet number, that is, the effective line. Instead of this, in addition to this, an effective line display lamp corresponding to the effective line is provided. It is also possible to more explicitly display which line is activated.

  In addition, in the case of inserting virtual game balls by operating the bet switches 107 to 109 in the credit mode, the main board 131 subtracts the stored memory number of credited game balls by that amount, and according to the subtraction value. Display control is performed so that the remaining number display unit 121 performs display. In addition, when the game ball is thrown in by operating the bet switches 107 to 109 in the direct mode, the main board 131 outputs a signal to that effect to the take-in device 23, and the corresponding game ball is sent from the upper plate 18. The capture device 23 is driven and controlled to capture.

  When the player operates the start lever 101 when at least one line is activated, the operation is detected by the start detection sensor 141, and the main board 131 detects that the start lever 101 is operated in response to the detection signal. Judge that. At the same time, information to that effect is transmitted to the sub-board 132. Then, the main board 131 drives and controls the motors 77 to 79 so as to rotate all the rotating bodies 71 to 73 (belt 76) all at once (may be simultaneous or provided with a predetermined time difference). As a result, each belt 76 rotates in one direction at a speed that makes it difficult for the player to visually recognize the symbols on the surface, and the symbols are displayed from the top to the bottom through the display windows 61-63. It is projected as if it is variably displayed.

  Further, at the timing when the detection signal based on the operation of the start lever 101 is inputted to the main board 131, each lottery is performed by the small role lottery means, the replay game lottery means, and the big bonus lottery means during the normal game.

  When the lottery result by the small role lottery means that the small role flag is established, the right to stop an appropriate small role symbol on the active line is given only in the game. Further, when the lottery result by the replay game lottery means that the replay flag is established, the right to shift to the replay game is given only in that game. That is, the small role flag and the replay flag are not carried over after the next game. If the lottery result by the big bonus lottery means that the big bonus flag is established, the right to shift to the big bonus game is given, and the flag is held until the shift to the big bonus game. Furthermore, when the lottery result of each lottery means does not mean that any condition is satisfied, no flag is set.

  When the player operates the stop buttons 102 to 104 in an arbitrary order after the lottery by each of the above lottery means is completed, the operation is individually detected by the stop detection sensors 142 to 144, and each detection signal is received. The main board 131 determines that each of the stop buttons 102 to 104 has been operated. Then, the main board 131 performs stop control of the motors 77 to 79 so that the rotating bodies 71 to 73 corresponding to the operated stop buttons 102 to 104 are individually stopped.

  The stop positions of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 (belt 76) are determined with reference to the tables stored in the storage means of the main board 131 based on the establishment flags that are the lottery results of the lottery means. Is done. At this time, if there is a symbol corresponding to the establishment flag from the effective line to the four symbols before the rotating body rotation direction, in principle, control is performed so that the symbol is actively drawn on the effective line. Thus, if the rotating body stop timing is an error up to 4 symbols, the error can be absorbed (retraction stop control). As a result, even if the player is not skilled, the main board 131 can stop the symbol corresponding to the establishment flag on the effective line as much as possible.

  Note that at a predetermined timing (for example, when the first stop button 102, 103, or 104 is pressed), the sub-board 132 includes the light emitters 8, 9, the lamp display units 10, 12, 13, and the speakers 11, 43. Then, various auxiliary displays are performed using the front light member 64 and the like, and a reach effect display is performed.

  When each of the rotating bodies 71 to 73 is stopped, the combination of the stop symbols on the active line is a predetermined symbol combination that is determined in advance, that is, a combination of a small role symbol, a combination of replay symbols, a big bonus symbol In the case of a combination, the main board 131 causes the acquired number display unit 122 to display the number of game balls to be paid out according to the combination of each stop symbol.

  In parallel with the display on the acquired number display unit 122, the main board 131 performs payout control for paying out as many game balls as the game value according to the combination of each stop symbol. In such a case, in principle, the main board 131 drives and controls the payout device 28 via the power supply unit 133, so that the game ball is paid out directly as an actual game ball to the upper plate 18 or the like. However, when the switch detection sensor 148 detects the operation of the changeover switch 110 and determines that the main board 131 is in the credit mode, if the maximum value (250 pieces) that can be stored and stored has not been reached, the corresponding amount is obtained. The payout device 28 is not paid out directly and is stored and stored as a credit game ball (virtual game ball). In this case, the main board 131 adds the number of game balls acquired this time to the stored storage number of credited game balls, and performs display control so that the remaining number display unit 121 performs display according to the added value. To do. Of course, even in this case, game balls are paid out directly from the payout device 28 for the amount exceeding the maximum value that can be stored and stored.

  When the symbols arranged on the active line are a combination of small symbols or symbols that are not paid out, the normal game is continued. On the other hand, when the combination of symbols arranged on the active line is a combination of replay symbols, a replay game that allows the next game to be performed free of charge is executed by the replay game control means. Further, when the combination of symbols arranged on the active line is a combination of big bonus symbols, the big bonus game is executed by the big bonus control means. Here, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, as an end condition of the big bonus game, in addition to a predetermined number of games (30 games end or 3 jack-in games end), the number of payout game balls is an upper limit value. A condition of whether or not (specifically, 2250) has been reached is also included. Therefore, when the number of payout game balls reaches the upper limit of 2250 without waiting for the end of 30 games or 3 jack-in games, the big bonus game is ended there and the gambling performance is more than necessary. I ’m not going to scramble.

  When the small role symbol, the replay symbol, the big bonus symbol, etc. are aligned on the effective line, the sub-board 132 includes the light emitters 8, 9, the lamp display units 10, 12, 13, the front light member 64, etc. Display control is performed to notify that a small role has been established, a transition to a replay game, or a bonus game has been established, and the speakers 11 and 43 are appropriately driven to provide voice notification. It should be noted that the sound notification by the speakers 11 and 43 is more serious as the profit from the return of the game value to the player is larger (such as increasing the volume, increasing the tone, or changing the rhythm). Is preferred. The same applies to the display mode of each notification unit. For example, by changing the display mode such as blinking rapidly in a big bonus game, it is possible to make the player estimate the amount of profit to be obtained.

  Now, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has the following characteristic effects with respect to paying out the game balls.

  Since the discharge ports 51 and 52 for discharging the game balls to the upper plate 18 are provided separately on the upstream side and the downstream side, the game balls can be discharged over a wide range on the upper plate 18. Effective use and optimization of the game ball discharge operation become possible. In particular, in the gaming machine 1 in which the upper plate 18 is expanded to increase the capacity, a suitable configuration can be realized.

  Further, since the payout passage unit 29 is provided with two passages, that is, the payout passage 55 and the bypass passage 56, the payout form can be changed according to the use and situation.

  In addition to the embodiment described above, for example, the following may be implemented.

  (A) In a configuration in which the payout device 28 pays out game balls (rental balls) based on a signal from the ball lending device, the prize balls are discharged as a plurality of outlets for discharging the game balls to the upper plate 18. A prize ball discharge port for discharging a ball and a ball discharge port for discharging a rental ball may be provided, and the respective discharge ports may be spaced apart from each other. In this case, the player can easily specify whether the game ball discharged to the upper plate 18 is a prize ball or a rental ball. Therefore, it becomes possible to confirm that the supply (payout) of the prize ball or the rental ball has been made reliably. In the configuration of FIG. 6, the outlet 51 can be a prize ball outlet, and the outlet 52 can be a ball outlet.

  (B) In the above embodiment, the upper plate 18 is provided with the two discharge ports 51 and 52 for discharging the game balls, and the two payout passages (the payout passage 55 and the bypass passage 56). A switching member that can selectively switch the discharge port and the payout passage may be provided.

  (C) In a configuration in which a ball reservoir (dispensing passage 55) is provided behind the upper plate 18 with the front panel 50 (see FIG. 6) of the gaming machine 1 interposed therebetween, a plurality of outlets are connected to the ball reservoir. May be provided. For example, when a discharge port is provided on the upstream side and the downstream side of the ball storage unit (payout passage 55), if the game ball is discharged from the discharge port on the upstream side of the ball storage unit (payout passage 55), the player is quicker. The payout of game balls can be confirmed. In other words, it is possible to confirm the payout of game balls with a small time difference from winning or ball lending operations.

  (D) A configuration in which three or more discharge ports for discharging game balls to the upper tray 18 or a configuration in which shutters that can be opened and closed are provided in a plurality of discharge ports may be employed. The shutter normally has a configuration in which the discharge port is normally closed and the shutter is pushed and released by the flow of the game ball. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 6, a shutter is provided only at the discharge port 52.

  (E) The lower plate 41 is eliminated from the gaming machine 1 and only the upper plate 18 is provided. Also in this case, since the capacity of the upper plate 18 and the like is increased as described above, a sufficient amount of game balls can be stored and held as the gaming machine 1.

  (F) Information providing means for auxiliary effects may be installed in the gaming machine 1. For example, the information providing means is installed integrally with the belt unit 70 on the front side of the belt unit 70, or is installed in the vicinity of the display windows 61 to 63 (any one of left, right, up and down) in the central panel portion. It may be installed above the front panel 60 (see FIG. 8) or installed on the top portion 6 a of the annular portion 6. As the information providing means, a liquid crystal display device, which is a kind of electrical display device, can be used, and other electrical display devices such as CRT, dot matrix, LED, electroluminescence (EL), fluorescent display tube. Etc. may be used. In addition to the electrical display device, a sound generating device such as a speaker may be used, thereby enabling dynamic sound effects for the player. Furthermore, you may comprise an information provision means as a combination of the speakers 11 and 43 which are audio | voice generators, and a display apparatus.

  (G) The types, arrangements, and the like of the symbols in the above embodiment are merely examples, and any configuration can be adopted, for example, including other small role symbols. Moreover, not only a picture, a number, a character, etc. but a geometric line, a figure, etc. may be sufficient. In addition, a symbol can be configured using light, color, or the like, a symbol can be configured by a three-dimensional shape or the like, and a symbol can be configured even by combining these. That is, the symbol may have any function as information having identification (identification information).

  (H) The arrangement of the operation means represented by the start lever 101 and the like and the display means represented by the remaining number display unit 121 and the like in the above embodiment is merely an example. For example, the start lever 101 is arranged on the right side. It is possible to make any appropriate changes, such as changing to a button instead of a lever.

  (I) The sub-board 132 may be omitted as a configuration in which all control of the gaming machine 1 is governed by the main board 131. Further, the sub-board 132 can be constituted by a plurality of boards by dividing the control sharing such as a sound control board and a lamp control board.

  (J) In the above embodiment, the gaming machine 1 having the big bonus game as the special gaming state has been described. However, the gaming machine 1 may be applied to a gaming machine capable of performing a regular bonus game consisting of a single jack-in game. Conversely, the big bonus game may be omitted. Furthermore, after the big bonus game, a game in which the consumption of the game medium (game ball) is suppressed until the predetermined condition is established (end of the predetermined number of games, the predetermined flag is established, etc.) or the chance of acquiring the game medium (game ball) is increased. It is good also as what provided various added values, such as a chance game function which can advance.

  (K) The number of games balls inserted per bet (predetermined number), the maximum number of games inserted, the number of payouts, etc. of the game balls in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not particularly limited to the above numerical values.

  (L) In addition to the gaming machine 1 described in the above embodiment, the present invention may be applied to a ball and ball paying game machine such as a pachinko machine or an arrangement ball machine, or a revolving game machine such as a slot machine, You may apply to other game machines.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 2 ... Outer frame, 3 ... Front frame, 4 ... Front door, 16 ... Back set board, 17 ... Upper plate unit, 18 ... Upper plate, 18a ... Main upper plate part, 18b ... Sub upper plate part , 23 ... take-in device, 28 ... payout device, 29 ... payout passage unit, 50 ... front panel, 51, 52 ... discharge port, 55 ... payout passage, 56 ... bypass passage.

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine that provides a ball tray for storing game balls on the front surface of the gaming machine, and sequentially puts the gaming balls in the ball tray to carry out the game,
A gaming machine comprising: a plurality of outlets for discharging game balls to the ball tray, wherein the plurality of outlets are spaced apart from each other.

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