JP2012000357A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress the forced shift of a game state based on an unfair act on a prize winning device with the distribution device of a mechanical game medium.SOLUTION: A game machine includes a profit giving device (an upper jackpot winning device 434) including a distribution variation device for distributing game media to a non-specific area (a non-specific passage 60C) and to a specific area (a specific passage 60E), and shifts to a special game state based on the detection of a game medium entering the specific area during a prescribed valid period. A first passage (a main entering passage 40A, a dangling passage 50A, a slant passage 60A, and a guide passage 60B) and a second passage (a branching passage 60D) branching from the first passage are formed inside the profit giving device. The distribution variation device includes a distribution mechanism 455, which takes: a non-guiding posture to guide a game medium to the non-specific area; and a guiding posture to guide a game medium to the second passage by making the game medium withdraw from the midstream of the first passage. The distribution mechanism 455 opens the second passage communicating with the specific area in the non-guiding posture and guiding posture.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a ball game machine.

  A prize winning device including a sorting device that distributes game balls to a non-specific area or a specific area, and when a game ball enters the specific area, a bullet that shifts the game state to an advantageous game state for the player to acquire the game ball Ball game machines are known. As a typical distribution device in such a winning device, a configuration including a rolling surface in which a plurality of openings for guiding a game ball are formed in a non-specific region and a specific region (hereinafter referred to as “simple distribution configuration”). Or a non-specific area or a configuration including a rotating body in which a plurality of recessed holes for guiding a game ball are formed in the specific area (hereinafter referred to as “first distribution change configuration”), a non-specific area, A plurality of passages for guiding a game ball to a specific area are formed, and a structure including a distribution regulating member that opens and closes a path to the specific area (hereinafter referred to as a “second distribution change structure”) ).

  In such a ball game machine, in order to shift the game state by the mechanical distribution of the game balls, the illegal action that forcibly shifts the game state rather than the case where the game state is transferred by electronic lottery It is easy to become a target of. Therefore, when a game ball enters a specific area within the limited period (hereinafter referred to as “valid period”) by limiting the period during which a game ball may enter the specific area in a normal game Only the game state is shifted to. In the case of the conventional simple distribution configuration, the game ball guided to the rolling surface is excellent in terms of game preference because the time to watch whether the game ball enters a specific area is long and indefinite. In the case of the conventional first distribution change configuration, the time width until the game ball guided to the rotating body enters the specific area is as follows. Since the game ball depends on the rotation posture of the rotating body when the game ball is guided to the rotating body, the game ball becomes large and the effective period cannot be set short. On the other hand, in the conventional second distribution change configuration, the period during which the game ball can be guided to the specific area is limited by the operation of the distribution regulation member. The effective period can be set shorter than the distribution change configuration.

JP 2007-319361 A

  With the conventional second distribution change configuration, the effective period can be set shorter than the conventional simple distribution configuration and the first distribution change configuration, but the switching operation of the guidance destination of the game ball by the distribution restriction member In particular, during the closing operation of the passage for guiding the game ball to a specific area, the game ball is removed in the same manner as when the distribution regulating member is in a stopped state due to vibration based on the interference between the game ball and the distribution regulating member. It is difficult to smoothly guide to a specific area, and there is room for further improvement from the viewpoint of suppressing fraud against a winning device including a sorting device by setting a valid period to be short.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, forced transition of the gaming state based on cheating on the winning device including the distribution device is suppressed.

In order to solve the above problems, a gaming machine according to the present invention is:
A profit providing device including a distribution change device that selectively distributes game media to one of the non-specific region and the specific region;
Specific area entering medium detecting means for detecting game media distributed to the specific area;
A distribution change control means for controlling the operation of the distribution change device;
Special gaming state transition means for transitioning the gaming state to a special gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal gaming state with respect to acquisition of the gaming medium, based on detection of the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means during a predetermined effective period;
A gaming machine including
A first path for guiding game media to the non-specific area and a second path for branching from the middle of the first path to guide game media to the specific area are formed in the profit providing device. And
The distribution changing device disengages the game medium that has entered the first passage from the middle of the first passage and the non-guided posture for guiding the game medium that has entered the first passage to the non-specific area. A distribution mechanism that takes a guidance posture to guide the two passages, and a distribution switching device that switches the posture of the distribution mechanism,
The distribution change control means controls the drive of the distribution change device to shift the distribution mechanism from the non-guided posture to the guided posture, and then a predetermined guidance time from the start of the transition to the guided posture Based on the progress of, return to the non-guided posture,
The predetermined effective period in the special gaming state transition means is started based on the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the guidance posture, and is a predetermined extended time from the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the non-guide posture. It is a period that ends based on progress,
The distribution mechanism opens the second passage in both a non-guided posture and a guided posture;
It is characterized by that.

  With the gaming machine according to the present invention, forced transition of the gaming state based on fraud is suppressed.

A perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine A perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine in an open state A perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine in another open state A perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine in still another open state Front view showing an example of a gaming machine A perspective view showing an example of a game board Front view showing an example of game board A perspective view showing an example of a start winning device according to the second special symbol Sectional drawing showing an example of the start winning apparatus which concerns on a 2nd special symbol A perspective view showing an example of the upper prize winning device Front view showing an example of the upper prize winning device A perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine Rear view showing an example of gaming machine Block diagram showing an example of electrical configuration of gaming machine Flow chart showing an example of main control main processing Flow chart showing an example of main control interrupt processing Flow chart showing an example of special symbol related processing in main control interrupt processing The flowchart showing the first half of an example of the upper prize winning device operation process in the special symbol related process The flowchart showing the second half of an example of the upper prize winning device operation process in the special symbol related process Flow chart showing an example of the upper prize winning device stop process in the special symbol related process Front perspective exploded perspective view showing an example of an upper prize winning device An exploded perspective view of a rear view showing an example of the upper prize winning device A perspective view showing an example of a sorting mechanism and a sorting switching solenoid in the upper prize winning device Front view for explaining the progress of the game ball in the upper prize winning device Sectional drawing for demonstrating advancing operation | movement of the game ball in the upper university winning device Timing chart showing an example of the operation of the upper prize winning device Timing chart showing another example of operation of upper prize winning device Timing chart showing still another example of operation of upper prize winning device

  The form of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described. In addition, after describing various conceptual configurations of the gaming machine according to the present invention, specific configurations thereof will be described.

[Conceptual composition]
The gaming machine according to the present invention is
A profit providing device including a distribution change device that selectively distributes game media to one of the non-specific region and the specific region;
Specific area entering medium detecting means for detecting game media distributed to the specific area;
A distribution change control means for controlling the operation of the distribution change device;
Special gaming state transition means for transitioning the gaming state to a special gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal gaming state with respect to acquisition of the gaming medium, based on detection of the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means during a predetermined effective period;
A gaming machine including
A first path for guiding game media to the non-specific area and a second path for branching from the middle of the first path to guide game media to the specific area are formed in the profit providing device. And
The distribution changing device disengages the game medium that has entered the first passage from the middle of the first passage and the non-guided posture for guiding the game medium that has entered the first passage to the non-specific area. A distribution mechanism that takes a guidance posture to guide the two passages, and a distribution switching device that switches the posture of the distribution mechanism,
The distribution change control means controls the drive of the distribution change device to shift the distribution mechanism from the non-guided posture to the guided posture, and then a predetermined guidance time from the start of the transition to the guided posture Based on the progress of, return to the non-guided posture,
The predetermined effective period in the special gaming state transition means is started based on the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the guidance posture, and is a predetermined extended time from the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the non-guide posture. It is a period that ends based on progress,
The distribution mechanism opens the second passage in both a non-guided posture and a guided posture;
It is characterized by that.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having the first conceptual configuration”.

  If the gaming machine of the first conceptual configuration, even if the game medium and the distribution mechanism interfere in the process of returning from the guidance posture of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture, no additional force is applied to the game medium, Even if the game medium enters the second passage, it proceeds smoothly to the specific area through the second passage as in the case where the distribution mechanism is in the guiding posture. Thus, the distribution mechanism is operated so that the time width required from the start of the return of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture until the game medium is detected by the specific area entering medium detection means closes the second passage. Smaller than the case. Therefore, the predetermined extension time that must be secured from the start of the shift to the non-guided posture of the distribution mechanism can be set short, and the forced shift to the special game state based on the illegal act on the profit providing device is suppressed. . In addition, in the non-guided posture of the distribution mechanism, even if the branch path that guides the game medium to the specific area is opened, the second path is branched from the first path that guides the non-specific area. It is also difficult to perform fraudulent acts such as forcibly guiding game media to a specific area. In addition, since the game medium that has entered the profit providing device continuously proceeds to the non-specific area or a part of the first path and the specific area through the second path through the first path, Compared to the case where it is possible to determine whether or not it is guided to a specific area by the stop, the game preference is improved.

In the gaming machine of the first conceptual configuration,
The distribution mechanism includes a guide member pivotally supported rotatably,
The guide member is positioned outside the first passage so as to form a part of a side wall of the first passage opposite to the second passage in the non-guide posture, and the first passage in the guide posture. Projecting into the first passage so that the game medium that travels through the vehicle collides, and the second passage is always opened in the transition process from the guidance posture to the non-guidance posture,
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a second conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the second conceptual configuration, when the guide member is in the non-guided posture, the game medium can be reliably advanced to the non-specific region, and when the guide member is in the guide posture, the game The medium can be reliably advanced to a specific area. Further, in the case of the gaming machine having the second conceptual configuration, even if the gaming medium and the sorting mechanism interfere in the process of returning from the guiding posture of the sorting mechanism to the non-leading posture, the gaming medium enters the second passage. This can be suppressed, and the predetermined extension time that must be secured from the start of the shift of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture can be set shorter.

In the gaming machine having the second conceptual configuration,
The distribution switching device is a pull-type solenoid;
The distribution mechanism takes a non-inductive posture in the demagnetized state of the pull solenoid, and takes a guide posture in the excited state of the pull solenoid;
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a third conceptual configuration”.

  If the gaming machine has the third conceptual configuration, even if the gaming medium and the sorting mechanism interfere with each other in the process of returning the guiding mechanism from the guiding posture to the non-guiding posture, the gaming medium enters the second passage. Further, it can be surely suppressed, and the predetermined extension time that must be secured from the start of the shift of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture can be set shorter. This is because the pull-type solenoid is already degaussed in the process of returning the guiding mechanism from the guidance posture to the non-guidance posture, so that the game medium and the sorting mechanism interfere with each other and the sorting mechanism moves to the non-guidance posture. This is because even if a force that forcibly promotes the return is applied, a drag force from the pull-type solenoid does not substantially occur against the force, and the game medium advances by pushing away the sorting mechanism. If the distribution mechanism is driven by a motor or the like, if the distribution mechanism is given a force that promotes the return to the non-inductive posture, a strong drag from the motor is generated against that force. However, the game medium may enter the second passage due to recoil. Further, in the case of the gaming machine having the third conceptual configuration, the game medium and the distribution mechanism interfere after the transition of the distribution mechanism to the guidance posture is completed or during the transition process of the distribution mechanism from the non-guidance posture to the guidance posture. Even so, the recoil of the game medium is alleviated by the distribution mechanism and sent out to the second passage, so that the game medium smoothly passes through the second passage and advances to the specific area. If this is a configuration in which the distribution mechanism is driven by a motor or the like, if the distribution mechanism is given a force that promotes the transition to the non-inductive posture, a strong drag from the motor is generated against that force. However, in the case of a pull type solenoid, the drag increases in accordance with the forced movement amount of the sorting mechanism.

In the gaming machine of the second concept configuration to the third concept configuration,
It is preferable that the first passage is bent on the upstream side of the traveling path of the game medium from the branching portion to the second passage.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a fourth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the fourth conceptual configuration, the speed and speed difference for each game medium immediately before the bent portion in the first passage is reduced, so that the branch portion to the second passage in the first passage is reduced. The speed when reaching is made uniform. As a result, the traveling path when the game medium is guided to the second passage is made constant, and the time interval from when the game medium interferes with the sorting mechanism until it is detected by the specific area entering medium detection means is further increased. Get smaller. Further, in the case of the gaming machine having the fourth conceptual configuration, the sorting mechanism and the specific area entering medium detection means are separated from each other by the first passage that bends from the entrance of the profit providing device. It is further difficult to perform an illegal act that is illegally actuated or illegally senses the specific area entering medium detection means.

In the gaming machine having the above fourth conceptual configuration,
It is preferable that the first passage bend three-dimensionally on the upstream side of the travel path of the game medium from the branching portion to the second passage.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a fifth conceptual configuration”.

  If it is a gaming machine of the fifth conceptual configuration, it will have a plurality of bending parts in the first passage, and the difference in speed and speed for each game medium in each part to be bent is reduced in the first passage. The speed when reaching the branch portion to the second passage is further uniformized. In addition, the first passage has a plurality of bending portions with different bending directions, and the difference in the plurality of directional components of the speed for each game medium is reduced, so that the first passage reaches the branching portion to the second passage. The speed is even more uniform. Further, in the case of the gaming machine having the fifth conceptual configuration, the sorting mechanism and the specific area entering medium detecting means are separated from the entrance of the profit providing apparatus by the first passage that bends in a plurality of stages. It is further difficult to perform an illegal act in which the minute mechanism is illegally operated or the specific area entering medium detecting means is illegally detected.

In the gaming machine of the fourth concept configuration to the fifth concept configuration,
It is preferable that the first passage bend substantially vertically at a part of the upstream side of the traveling path of the game medium from the branching portion to the second passage.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a sixth concept configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the sixth conceptual configuration, the speed and speed difference of each game medium immediately before the bent portion in the first passage is extremely well reduced. The speed when reaching the branch site is extremely uniform. As a result, the travel path when the game medium is guided to the second passage is made extremely constant, and the time interval from when the game medium interferes with the sorting mechanism until it is detected by the specific area entering medium detection means is reduced. Extremely small.

In the gaming machine having the above fourth concept configuration to sixth concept configuration,
The first passage includes an entrance passage that guides the game medium captured by the entry restriction mechanism to the rear, a hanging passage that guides the gaming medium that has passed through the entry passage, and a gaming medium that has passed through the hanging passage. And a guide passage for guiding the game medium that has passed through the slope passage to the non-specific area,
The second passage is branched from the middle of the guide passage;
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, a gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as a “gaming machine having a seventh conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine of the seventh conceptual configuration, in order to bend at the boundary between the entrance passage and the hanging passage, and to bend in the direction different from the boundary between the entrance passage and the suspension passage at the boundary between the suspension passage and the inclined passage. The difference between the speeds and the speeds of the game media at those boundaries is extremely well reduced, and the speed when reaching the branch path to the second path in the first path is very even.

In the gaming machine of the first concept configuration to the seventh concept configuration,
The profit providing device further includes an entry restriction changing device for changing an entry restriction of the game medium;
Further includes an entry restriction change control means for controlling the operation of the entry restriction changing device;
The entry restriction changing device includes an entry restriction mechanism that takes an entry prohibition posture that inhibits entry of game media and an entry permission posture that allows entry of game media, and an entry restriction switching device that switches the posture of the entry restriction mechanism. Including
The distribution change control means is based on the elapse of a predetermined guidance waiting time from the start of transition of the entry restriction mechanism to the allowable entry posture according to the control of driving of the entry restriction change device by the entry restriction change control means. , Shifting the distribution mechanism from a non-guided posture to a guided posture;
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having an eighth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the eighth conceptual configuration, since the situation in which the validity period should be set is limited, it is difficult for the profit-providing device to be cheated.

In the gaming machine having the above eighth concept configuration,
The entry restriction mechanism includes an entry restriction member that is pivotally supported.
The entry restricting member closes the entrance of the game medium to the profit providing device in the entry prohibition posture, and can open the entrance and capture the game medium in the entry allowance posture.
The entry restricting member guides the captured game medium to a predetermined part of the entrance and enters the first passage one by one;
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a ninth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine of the ninth conceptual configuration, even if a plurality of game media are captured by the entry restricting member substantially simultaneously, the game media travel through the first passage in a separated state, Interference with other game media and subsequent game media is suppressed. As a result, the speed at which the first passage reaches the branching portion to the second passage is extremely uniform.

In the gaming machine having the ninth conceptual configuration,
It is preferable that the guidance direction of the game medium by the entry restricting member and the entry direction to the first passage are substantially orthogonal to each other.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as a “gaming machine having a tenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the tenth conceptual configuration, the speed and speed difference for each game medium entering the first passage is extremely well reduced, so that the first passage reaches the branch portion to the second passage. The speed is extremely uniform. As a result, the travel path when the game medium is guided to the second passage is made extremely constant, and the time interval from when the game medium interferes with the sorting mechanism until it is detected by the specific area entering medium detection means is reduced. Extremely small.

In the gaming machine having the ninth concept configuration to the tenth concept configuration,
In the entry restricting member, the bottom in the entry prohibition posture is inclined to the lower right, and the length along the inclined direction of the bottom is longer than the sum of the diameters of the two game media,
When the entry restricting member is in an entry prohibition posture, the gap between the bottom surface and the top surface of the entrance is widened to the right due to the inclination of the bottom surface, and the game guided to the rightmost end portion of the bottom surface Only the medium can enter the first passage,
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as a “gaming machine having an eleventh conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the eleventh conceptual configuration, the game media captured by the entry restriction member surely enter the first passage one by one, and the guidance direction of the game medium by the entry restriction member and the entry into the first passage. The direction is substantially orthogonal.

In the gaming machine having the above eighth concept configuration to eleventh concept configuration,
It is preferable that the predetermined valid period in the special game state transition means is a part of a period from the start of transition to the entry allowable posture of the entry restriction mechanism to the start of transition to the entry prohibition posture.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a twelfth conceptual configuration”.

  In the gaming machine having the twelfth conceptual configuration, the situation in which the validity period is to be set is limited to the case where the entry restriction mechanism is allowed to enter, so that it is difficult to perform an illegal act on the profit providing device. Moreover, the control for setting the effective period is simplified.

In the gaming machine of the first concept configuration to the twelfth concept configuration,
It is preferable that the distribution change control unit is configured to return to the non-guided posture based on the detection of the game medium by the specific area entering medium detection unit before the predetermined guidance time has elapsed.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a thirteenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the thirteenth conceptual configuration, since the number of gaming media detected by the specific area entering media detecting means is limited to one within the effective period, it is difficult to perform an illegal act on the profit providing device. . Further, the control for determining the transition to the special game state is simplified.

In the gaming machine of the first concept configuration to the thirteenth concept configuration,
It is preferable that the predetermined valid period in the gaming state control unit is terminated based on the detection of the game medium by the specific area entering medium detection unit before the elapse of the predetermined extension time.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a fourteenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the fourteenth conceptual configuration, the validity period is shortened when a gaming medium is detected by the specific area entering medium detecting means, so that it is difficult to perform an illegal act on the profit providing device. Further, the control for determining the transition to the special game state is simplified.

In the gaming machine of the first concept configuration to the 14th concept configuration,
A first passage entry medium detecting means for detecting the game medium that has entered the first passage on the upstream side of the traveling path of the game medium from a branching portion to the second passage;
The gaming state control means includes detecting the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means during the predetermined effective period, and the first passage entering medium detecting means before detecting the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means. The normal gaming state is shifted to the special gaming state based on the detection of the gaming medium by
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a fifteenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of the gaming machine having the fifteenth conceptual configuration, since it is a condition that the game medium is detected by the first passage entry medium detecting means in the determination of the transition to the special gaming state, it is difficult to perform an illegal act on the profit providing device.

In the gaming machine of the first concept configuration to the fifteenth concept configuration,
A non-specific area entering medium detecting means for detecting game media distributed to the non-specific area;
The gaming state control means includes detecting the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means during the predetermined effective period, and the first passage entering medium detecting means before detecting the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means. The transition from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state is determined based on the detection of the gaming medium by the elapse of a predetermined discharge waiting time from the start of the transition from the allowed entry posture to the prohibited entry posture of the entry restriction mechanism The sum of the number of game media detected by the specific area entering medium detecting means and the non-specific area entering medium detecting means later is equal to or greater than the number of game media detected by the first passage entering medium detecting means. Shifting the normal gaming state to the special gaming state in response to detection,
A configuration is preferred.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a sixteenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of a gaming machine having the sixteenth concept configuration, the non-specific area entering medium detecting means and the specific area entering medium detecting means are prevented from being detected after the transition to the special gaming state, and an abnormality occurs during the special gaming state. It is prevented that notification or game progress is stopped.

A first start winning device;
First start winning medium detecting means for detecting a game medium that has entered the first start winning apparatus;
First special symbol determination means for determining the first special symbol by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the first start winning medium detection means;
A second start winning device including an entry restriction changing device for changing an entry restriction of the game medium;
A second start winning medium detection means for detecting a game medium that has entered the second start winning apparatus;
Second special symbol determining means for determining a second special symbol by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the second start winning medium detecting device;
A starting device;
A starting medium detecting means for detecting a game medium that has entered the starting device;
A normal symbol determining means for determining a normal symbol by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the starting medium detecting means;
A first grand prize device including an entry restriction changing device for changing an entry restriction of a game medium;
A second big prize device including an entry restriction changing device that changes the entry restriction of the game medium, and a distribution changing device that selectively distributes the game medium to either the non-specific area or the specific area;
A specific area entering medium detecting means for detecting a game medium that has entered the specific area of the second big winning device;
A start winning operation control means for controlling the operation of the entry restriction changing device in the second start winning device when the normal symbol is determined to be a winning symbol by the normal symbol determining means;
When the second special symbol determining means determines the second special symbol as one of the first small winning symbol and the second small winning symbol, the entry restriction changing device in the second big winning device And a second prize winning operation control means for controlling the operation of the distribution changing device;
The first special symbol is determined to be the first jackpot symbol by the first special symbol determination means, and the first special symbol is determined to be the second jackpot symbol by the first special symbol determination means. Second operation trigger, the second special symbol is determined to be the first jackpot symbol by the second special symbol determination means, the third special trigger, the second special symbol is determined to be the second jackpot symbol by the second special symbol determination means When the second special symbol is determined to be the first small hit symbol by the second special symbol determining means and the specific area entering medium detecting means during the predetermined effective period. When the medium is detected and when the second special symbol is determined to be the second small hit symbol by the second special symbol determining means, the medium entering the specific area during the predetermined effective period Game medium by detecting means If There any one actuating trigger sixth actuating trigger detected is satisfied, the special game state transition means for shifting the gaming state to an advantageous special game state than the normal game state with respect to the acquisition of a game medium,
First prize winning operation control means for controlling the operation of the entry restriction changing device of the first prize winning device in the special gaming state;
The gaming state is changed to the normal gaming state based on the end of the operation of the first big winning device associated with the first operation trigger, the third operation trigger, and the fifth operation trigger in the first big winning action control means. The gaming state is set based on the end of the operation of the first big winning device in accordance with the second operation opportunity, the fourth operation opportunity, and the sixth operation opportunity in the first big prize operation control means. A game state update means for setting a specific game state that is more advantageous than the normal game state with respect to acquisition of a medium;
With
The period during which the game medium is allowed to enter the second start winning device when the normal symbol is determined to be the winning symbol by the normal symbol determining means is longer in the specific gaming state than in the normal gaming state. The frequency per unit time at which the second special symbol determination means can receive the second special symbol by the second special symbol determination means is long and the first special symbol determination means by the first special symbol determination means in the normal gaming state. Lower than the frequency per unit time, and higher in the specific gaming state than the frequency per unit time at which the first special symbol determination means can receive the lottery of the first special symbol.
A gaming machine,
A first path for guiding game media to the non-specific area and a second path for branching from the middle of the first path to guide the game medium to the specific area inside the second special winning device. Formed,
The distribution changing device disengages the game medium that has entered the first passage from the middle of the first passage and the non-guided posture for guiding the game medium that has entered the first passage to the non-specific area. A distribution mechanism that takes a guidance posture to guide the two passages, and a distribution switching device that switches the posture of the distribution mechanism,
The second special winning action control means controls the drive of the distribution switching device to shift the distribution mechanism from the non-guided posture to the guided posture, and then a predetermined value from the start of the transition to the guided posture. To return to the non-guided posture based on the lapse of the guiding time of
The predetermined effective period in the special gaming state transition means is started based on the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the guidance posture, and is a predetermined extended time from the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the non-guide posture. It is a period that ends based on progress,
The distribution mechanism opens the second passage in both a non-guided posture and a guided posture;
A gaming machine characterized by that.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine having this configuration is also referred to as “a gaming machine having a seventeenth conceptual configuration”.

  In the case of a gaming machine of the seventeenth conceptual configuration, even if the game medium and the distribution mechanism interfere in the process of returning from the guidance posture of the distribution mechanism to the non-guidance posture, no additional force is applied to the game medium, Even if the game medium enters the second passage, it proceeds smoothly to the specific area through the second passage as in the case where the distribution mechanism is in the guiding posture. Thus, the distribution mechanism is operated so that the time width required from the start of the return of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture until the game medium is detected by the specific area entering medium detection means closes the second passage. Smaller than the case. Therefore, the predetermined extension time that must be ensured from the start of the shift of the distribution mechanism to the non-guided posture can be set short, and it is difficult to perform an illegal act on the second prize winning device. In addition, in the non-guided posture of the distribution mechanism, even if the branch path that guides the game medium to the specific area is opened, the second path is branched from the first path that guides the non-specific area. It is also difficult to perform fraudulent acts such as forcibly guiding game media to a specific area. In addition, the game medium that has entered the second grand prize winning device continuously proceeds to the non-specific area or a part of the first path and the specific area through the second path through the first path. Compared to the case where the structure that stops the progress is included and it is possible to determine whether or not it is guided to the specific area by the stop, the preference of the game is improved. Even in normal games, once a transition is made to a specific game state, special game states based mainly on the fifth and sixth operation triggers occur in a short period of time until returning from the specific game state to the normal game state. Since it becomes difficult to identify them even if they are shifted to a special game state in a short time due to an illegal act on the second big prize winning device, It is important to make it difficult for cheating to the winning device.

  The gaming machine having the second conceptual configuration to the gaming machine having the sixteenth conceptual configuration can be combined with the gaming machine having the seventeenth conceptual configuration, and the same effect can be obtained.

[Specific configuration]
A specific form of the gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, a specific example of a ball ball game machine will be described as a game machine, but the design may be changed as appropriate without departing from the gist of the present invention.

  The gaming machine of the embodiment will be described. In the following, the structural configuration and electrical configuration of the gaming machine and various control processes will be outlined, and then the characteristic portions of the present embodiment will be described together.

(Structural structure)
1 to 4 are perspective views showing an example of a gaming machine. FIG. 1 shows a closed state of the gaming machine 100. FIG. 2 shows a front block 102 and an intermediate block 103 integrated with an outer frame 101. FIG. FIG. 3 shows a state where the front block 102 is opened with respect to the intermediate block 103, and FIG. 4 shows a state where the rear block 104 is opened with respect to the intermediate block 103. The state is shown. 2 to 4, various wirings are omitted, and the detailed configuration of the game board 400 is omitted in FIG. 3.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the gaming machine 100 can freely open and close the intermediate block 103 with respect to the outer frame 101, the front block 102, the intermediate block 103, the rear block 104, and the outer frame 101. An intermediate block support mechanism for detachably supporting, a front block support mechanism for detachably supporting the front block 102 with respect to the intermediate block 103, and a rear block 104 with respect to the intermediate block 103 can be freely opened and closed. And a rear block support mechanism.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the outer frame 101 is a substantially quadrilateral frame body in which the top plate 111, the bottom plate 112, the left side plate 113, and the right side plate 114 are assembled. In the game hall in which the gaming machine 100 is installed, The game machine is installed in a gaming machine installation facility (common name, “island facility”: not shown) and is firmly fixed by a fixture (not shown). The outer frame 101 further includes a base plate 115 on which the intermediate block 103 is placed when the intermediate block 103 is closed with respect to the outer frame 101. The top plate 111, the bottom plate 112, and the left side plate 113 are wood, the right side plate 114 is a metal material having higher rigidity than wood, and the pedestal plate 115 is a resin material.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the intermediate block support mechanism includes an upper bearing structure 121 and a lower shaft structure 122 provided on the outer frame 101, an upper shaft structure 126 provided on the intermediate block 103, and a lower shaft structure. Side bearing structure 127, and the upper shaft structure 126 and the lower shaft structure 122 are mounted on the upper bearing structure 121 and the lower bearing structure 127, respectively. It is supported with respect to the outer frame 101.

  As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the front block support mechanism includes an upper shaft structure 131 (only in FIG. 3) and a lower shaft structure 132 (only in FIG. 1) provided in the intermediate block 103, and the front block support mechanism. An upper bearing structure 133 (only in FIG. 3) and a lower bearing structure 134 (only in FIG. 1) provided in the block 102 are provided, and the upper bearing structure 133 and the lower bearing structure 134 are respectively provided. The front block 102 is supported with respect to the intermediate block 103 by being mounted on the upper shaft structure 131 and the lower shaft structure 132. Similarly, the rear block support mechanism is provided in the upper block structure 136 and the lower bearing structure 137 (see FIG. 12) provided in the intermediate block 103 and in the front block 102 as shown in FIG. The upper shaft structure 138 and the lower shaft structure 139 (see FIG. 12) are provided, and the upper shaft structure 138 and the lower shaft structure 139 respectively include the upper bearing structure 136 and the lower bearing structure. The rear block 104 is supported with respect to the intermediate block 103 by being attached to the body 137.

  The gaming machine 100 also includes an intermediate block locking mechanism that restricts the opening and closing of the intermediate block 103 relative to the outer frame 101, a front block locking mechanism that restricts the opening and closing of the front block 102 relative to the intermediate block 103, an intermediate block locking mechanism, and a front block A lock opening / closing operation mechanism that is operated to unlock and lock the locking mechanism. As shown in FIG. 3, a predetermined opening / closing mechanism for the key cylinder 141 (see also FIG. 1) of the lock opening / closing mechanism that is provided in the intermediate block 103 and is exposed to the front side of the gaming machine 100 through the opening of the front block 102. The movable pawl 143 of the intermediate block locking mechanism provided in the intermediate block 103 is actuated in response to a clockwise rotation operation by an operation key (not shown), and the fixed pawl 142 of the intermediate block locking mechanism provided in the outer frame 101 The engagement with the movable claw 143 is released, and the intermediate block 103 is allowed to be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame 101. On the other hand, in response to a left rotation operation with a predetermined operation key on the key cylinder 141, a movable claw 144 of the front block locking mechanism provided in the intermediate block 103 and a fixed claw 145 of the front block locking mechanism provided in the front block 102, Is released, and the front block 102 is allowed to be opened and closed with respect to the intermediate block 103.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 includes a rear block opening / closing restriction mechanism that restricts opening / closing of the rear block 104 with respect to the intermediate block 103. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the rear block opening / closing restriction mechanism is composed of three opening / closing restriction portions 150 </ b> A to 150 </ b> C, each of which is provided in the intermediate block 103 and formed in the rear block 104. In response to a rotation operation with respect to the rotating pieces 151A to 151C protruding to the back side of the gaming machine 100 through the openings 104A to 104C, the rotating pieces 151A to 151C cannot move through the openings 104A to 104C. ˜151C moves to an opening / closing permissible posture that can pass through the openings 104A to 104C, the sandwiched pieces 152A to 152C (only in FIG. 4) formed on the rear block 104 by the intermediate block 103 and the rotating pieces 151A to 151C are clamped. After being released, the rear block 104 is allowed to open and close with respect to the intermediate block 103.

  The gaming machine 100 also includes a game ball movement restriction mechanism that restricts the movement of the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the front block 102. As shown in FIG. 3, the game ball movement restricting mechanism is provided in the intermediate block 103, a flow restricting piece 161 urged toward the front block 102, and a restriction changing protrusion 162 provided on the front block 102. The movement of the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the front block 102 is performed when the flow-down restricting piece 161 is pressed toward the intermediate block 102 by the restriction changing protrusion 162 in the closed state of the front block 102 with respect to the intermediate block 103. On the other hand, when the front block 102 is open with respect to the intermediate block 103, the flow restricting piece 161 is released from being pressed by the restriction changing projection 162 and protrudes toward the front block 102. Prohibited by.

  The gaming machine 100 also includes an interval regulating mechanism that tightens the uniformity of the interval between a later-described center panel 220 in the front block 102 and an after-mentioned game board 400 in the intermediate block 103. As shown in FIG. 3, the spacing regulating mechanism is provided on the center panel 220, and on the back side of the front block 102, a protruding piece 171 that protrudes toward the opening / closing axis of the intermediate block 103 and the front block 102, and the intermediate block 103, and a projecting piece 172 projecting to the opposite side of the opening / closing axis side on the front side of the intermediate block 103, and the projecting piece 171 as the front block 102 moves relative to the intermediate block 103 in the closing direction. Enters the rear side of the projecting piece 172, and finally the front surface of the projecting piece 171 and the rear surface of the projecting piece 172 come into contact with each other in a pressed state when the front block 102 is closed with respect to the intermediate block 103.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the gaming machine 100 includes an open / close detection switch 108 that detects whether the intermediate block 103 is opened or closed with respect to the outer frame 101, and FIG. As described above, an open / close detection switch 109 for detecting whether or not the front block 102 is closed with respect to the intermediate block 103 is provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the front block 102 has a base frame 201 having an opening 201A (only in FIG. 3) and an opening provided on the front side of the base frame 201 and communicating with a part of the opening 201A. A front panel 210 having 210A (only in FIG. 1), a central panel 220 provided on the back side of the base frame 201 so as to close the opening 201A, a main storage mechanism 230 (only in FIG. 1) for storing game balls, Auxiliary storage mechanism 240 for storing game balls (only in FIG. 1) and a launch operated by the player to sequentially fire the game balls stored in main storage mechanism 230 onto game board 400 (only in FIG. 3). And an operating device 250 (only in FIG. 1).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front panel 210 includes an opening peripheral portion 211 at the periphery of the opening 210 </ b> A, an upper protruding portion 217 that protrudes forward below the opening peripheral portion 211, and the main storage mechanism 230 is disposed, A lower protrusion 218 that protrudes forward under the upper protrusion 217 and has the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 disposed thereon, and a flat part that is substantially flat to the right of the lower protrusion 218 and in which the firing operation device 250 is disposed. 219.

  As shown in FIG. 1 or 3, the center panel 220 includes a panel frame 221 (only in FIG. 3) attached from the rear side of the base frame 201, and a light-transmitting front fitted in the panel frame 221. A plate 222 (only in FIG. 1) and a light-transmitting rear plate 223 (only in FIG. 3) fitted in the panel frame 221 with the front plate 222 and a predetermined gap therebetween are provided. Note that the protruding piece 171 of the above-described interval regulating mechanism is formed integrally with the panel frame 221.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the main storage mechanism 230 has a game ball inlet 231A, an outlet (not shown), and an outlet (not shown) formed upstream of the outlet. 231, a ball removal mechanism for switching the discharge destination of the game ball released from the storage basket 231 by opening and closing the discharge port between the outlet and the discharge port, and a ball removal operation member 232 that operates the ball removal mechanism I have. A game ball acquired according to the progress of the game and a game ball lent according to a lending operation to a lending operation device 292 described later mainly flow into the storage basin 231 through the inflow port 231A. While being aligned in a row, the guide is sequentially guided in the direction in which the outlet and the outlet are formed (to the right in FIG. 5). When a ball removal operation (for example, a pressing operation) is not performed on the ball removal operation member 232, the game ball is guided to a launching device 330 (see FIG. 3) described later in the intermediate block 103 through the outlet. On the other hand, when the ball removal operation is performed on the ball removal operation member 232, the game ball is guided to the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 (see FIG. 1) through the discharge port.

  As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 5, the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 includes a storage ball 241 having a game ball inlet 241A (FIG. 5 only) and a discharge port 241B, and a ball removal mechanism 243 for opening and closing the discharge port 241B. And a ball removal operation member 242 for operating the ball removal mechanism. Game balls and the like acquired as the game progresses mainly flow into the main storage mechanism 230, but if the storage tub 231 is full, it flows into the storage basin 241 through the inflow port 241A, and the ball removal operation member 232 is removed. The game ball guided from the storage basket 231 according to the operation flows into the storage basket 241 through the inflow port 241C. The bottom surface of the storage rod 241 is inclined on the mortar toward the discharge port 241B, and the storage port 241 is opened by opening the discharge port 241B in response to a ball removal operation (for example, a right slide operation) with respect to the ball removal operation member 242. All the stored game balls can be sequentially released to the outside of the gaming machine 100. When the discharge port 241B is completely opened by the ball removal operation on the ball removal operation member 242, until the return operation (for example, pressing operation or slight left slide operation) is performed on the ball removal operation member 242, It is maintained in that state. A ball overflow detection switch 249 (see FIG. 14) for detecting whether or not game balls are excessively stored in the storage basket 241 is provided in the depth of the inflow port 241A.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the firing operation device 250 includes a pedestal 251 that protrudes forward from the flat portion 219 of the peripheral panel 210, and a rotatable firing handle 252 provided around the pedestal 251. The variable resistor 253 (see FIG. 14) for detecting the rotation operation amount of the firing handle 252, the contact sensor 254 (see FIG. 14) for detecting that the player is in contact with the firing handle 252, and the player It includes a firing stop switch 255 (FIG. 5 only) that is operated and invalidates the ejection of the game ball accompanying the rotational operation of the firing handle 252. In response to a rotation operation of the launch handle 252 by the player, a game ball is ejected from the launch device 330 (see FIG. 3) with an intensity corresponding to the rotational operation amount. When the contact between the firing handle 252 and the player is not detected by the contact sensor 254, or when the firing operation is invalidated by the operation of the firing stop switch 255, the firing handle 252 is rotated. However, the game ball is not ejected from the launching device 330.

  The front block 102 is provided on the base frame 201 and includes a light emitting device group disposed in the back of the opening peripheral edge portion 211 of the front panel 210. The frame light emitting device group has an opening as shown in FIG. Upper central portion 211A in the peripheral portion 211, upper left corner portion 211B on the left side of the upper central portion 211A, upper right corner portion 211C on the right side of the upper central portion 211A, left middle portion 211D below the upper left corner portion 211B, and upper side Upper middle frame light emitting device 271, left upper frame light emitting device 272, upper right frame light emitting device 273, left intermediate frame light emitting device 274, and right intermediate frame light emitting device arranged corresponding to each of right middle portion 211E below right corner portion 211C. 275 (see FIG. 14).

  Further, the front block 102 is provided in the base frame 201 and corresponds to each of the upper left sound output port 211F and the upper right sound output port 211G formed in the opening periphery portion 211 at the back of the opening periphery portion 211 of the front panel 210. The upper left acoustic device 281 and the upper right acoustic device 282 are provided.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front block 102 includes a game ball lending device 290 provided on the upper protruding portion 217, and the game ball lending device 290 is disposed on the side of the gaming machine 100. A frequency display device (not shown) that displays a numerical value corresponding to the remaining amount of bills, cards, etc. inserted into a card unit (not shown) that is not a constituent element of the gaming machine 100, and a game when a game ball is lent A lending operation device 292 operated by a player, and a return operation device 293 operated by a player when returning a bill or a card inserted into the card unit. When a lending operation is performed on the lending operation device 292 in a valid state in which a numerical value corresponding to the amount of money is displayed on the frequency display device by inserting a bill or a card into the card unit, a predetermined operation is performed according to the lending operation. A number of game balls are lent out from the payout device 540 of the rear block 104, and the display of the frequency display device is updated as the game balls are lent out. On the other hand, when a return operation is performed on the return operation device 293 in the valid state, a card in which the equivalent of the banknote corresponding to the remaining amount or the remaining amount is recorded is returned from the card unit according to the returning operation.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the intermediate block 103 includes a base frame 301 having an opening (not shown), and a game board 400 (see FIG. 3) that is attached to the front side of the base frame 301 and covers the opening. Only), a game board support mechanism that supports the game board 400 in a rotatable and detachable manner with respect to the base frame 301, a game board fixing mechanism that fixes the position of the game board 400 with respect to the base frame 301, and a game The launch device 330 that injects the game ball onto the board 400 (only in FIG. 3), the mounting base 360 (only in FIG. 4) provided on the back side of the gaming board 400, and the game progress mounted on the mounting base 360 is integrated. And a sub-control device 390 (FIG. 4 only) that controls game effects and state notifications based on commands from the main control device 370.

  The base frame 301 includes a guide passage 301 </ b> A for guiding a game ball released from a payout device 540 (see FIG. 12) described later to the front block 102 and various frame light emitting devices 271 provided in the base frame 201 of the front block 102. Of the game board 400 through which wiring (not shown) and a signal relay device (not shown) for electrically connecting ˜275 and the sound devices 281 and 282 to the main control device 370 and the sub control device 390 are inserted An opening 301B based on the notch is formed.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the game board 400 includes a flat base 401 having various through holes (not shown) such as a discharge port 401 </ b> A, and a smooth base from the lower left to the upper right of the base 401. An outer rail 402 that is curved and guides a game ball launched from a launching device 330 described later, an inner rail 403 that curves smoothly from the lower right to the upper left of the base body 401, and an upper left end of the inner rail 403. A return ball prevention mechanism 404 that prevents the game ball once released from the launch passage 401B that is attached and formed from a portion where the outer rail 402 and the inner rail 403 are parallel to each other from returning to the launch passage 401B, and the outer rail 402 A recoil prevention member 405 that prevents a large recoil of the game ball that is attached to the upper right end of the game board and moves to the left after passing through the center of the game board 400, and a launch passage 401B. And a protection member 406 for protecting the outer edge of the minute outer rail 402. As shown in FIG. 3, there is a gap between the guide member 335 that guides the game ball from the launch device 330 to the launch passage 401 </ b> B and the outer rail 402. A game ball that reverts back to the launch passage 401B without exceeding 404 is formed in the base frame 201, and the auxiliary storage mechanism from the inflow port 241B (see FIG. 5) via the return ball passage 201B disposed below this gap. Returned to 240 (see FIG. 5). A structure provided in a substantially circular game area that is partitioned by the outer rail 402 and the inner rail 403 and that can move the game ball beyond the return ball prevention mechanism 404 will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the game board support mechanism is formed on the support shaft portion 311 (see also FIG. 7) provided on the protection member 406 and the base frame 301, and a part of the base body 401 of the game board 400. Is formed by a mounting portion 312 and a bearing portion 313 which is formed on the base frame 301 and engages with the support shaft portion 311, and supports the game board 400 so as to be rotatable and detachable. When the game board 400 is rotatably supported, after the game board 400 is rotated by a predetermined angle or more and the game board 400 is tilted from the rotation axis with a portion of the base body 401 coming into contact with the mounting portion 312 as a fulcrum, The engagement between the shaft portion 311 and the bearing portion 313 is released. Thereby, the game board 400 can be detached from the base frame 301. Conversely, when the game board 400 is mounted on the base frame 301, after placing a predetermined part of the game board 400 on the placement part 312, the support shaft part 311 is engaged with the bearing part 313.

  The game board fixing mechanism is composed of three fixing tools 320 (only two fixing tools are shown in FIG. 3) provided on the base frame 301, and each of them protrudes forward from the base frame 301. A rotation shaft body (not shown) that is rotatable and an insertion / removal prohibition posture that is fixed to the tip of the rotation shaft body and cannot pass through the notch portion 401C formed in the base body 401 of the game board 400 and passes through the notch portion 401C. A rotating piece 322 taking an insertion / removal allowable posture, a pressing plate (not shown) disposed behind the rotating piece 322, and the rotating plate 322 when the rotating piece 322 is in the insertion / removal prohibiting posture. And an urging body (not shown) for urging the 322 side. In the state where the gaming board 400 is fixed to the base frame 301, the turning piece 322 protrudes forward of the base body 401 through the notch 401C and is in an insertion / removal prohibition posture. It is clamped in a pressed state by the piece 322 and the pressing plate. Accordingly, since the positioning of the game board 400 in the front-rear direction with respect to the base frame 301 can be accurately performed, it is possible to prevent the movement of the game ball from the guide member 335 to the launch passage 401B. When the rotating piece 322 is rotated from the insertion / removal prohibited posture to the insertion / removal-allowing posture in which the turning piece 322 can pass through the notch 401C according to the rotation operation with respect to the rotating piece 322, the urging member biases the pressing plate. Further, the holding of the base body 401 by the rotating piece 322 and the pressing plate is released. When all the turning pieces 322 are in the insertion / removal allowing posture, the game board 400 can turn with respect to the base frame 301. On the contrary, when the game board 400 is fixed to the base frame 301, the game board 400 is rotated in a state where all the rotation pieces 322 are in the insertion / removal posture, and each rotation piece 322 is inserted into the cutout portion 401C. Then, all the rotating pieces 322 are rotated to the insertion / removal prohibition posture.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the launcher 330 has a ball feed mechanism 331 that sequentially sends the game balls stored in the main storage mechanism 230 to the launch position, and a ball feed solenoid 332 that drives the ball feed mechanism 331 ( 14), a launching mechanism 333 for injecting a game ball arranged at the launch position, a launching solenoid 334 (see FIG. 14) for driving the launching mechanism 333, and a game ball launched from the launching mechanism 333 as a game board And a guide member 335 for guiding 400 launch passages 401B. The launch device 330 operates in response to the launch operation on the launch operation device 250 as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the mounting base 360 includes a bearing structure (not shown) provided on the base frame 301 and a shaft structure (see FIG. 4) that is formed on the mounting base 360 and engages with the bearing structure. It is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the base frame 301.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 370 includes a main control board 920 (see FIG. 14) and a board case 371 having a split structure that accommodates the main control board 920. The main control board 920 is sealed in the board case 371 so that it cannot be opened without leaving a trace.

  The sub-control device 390 includes a sub-control board 940 (see FIG. 14) and a board case 391 having a split structure that accommodates the sub-control board 940. The sub-control board 940 is sealed in the board case 391. Has been.

  Here, in the game board 400, various structures arranged in the game area will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the game board, and FIG. 7 is a front view illustrating an example of the game board. FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of a start winning device according to the second special symbol in the game board, respectively. 8A and 9A show the case where the entry restriction mechanism in the start winning device is in the entry prohibition posture, and FIGS. 8B and 9B show that the entry restriction mechanism is allowed to enter. The case of posture is shown. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X 'in FIG. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of the top prize winning device in the game board. FIGS. 10 (A) and 10 (B) show the entry prohibition posture and the entry allowable posture of the entry restriction mechanism in the top prize winning device, respectively. Some cases are shown. In FIG. 10B, some members are omitted. FIG. 11 is a front view showing an example of the top prize winning device in the game board, and FIGS. 11 (A) and 11 (B) show the guiding posture and the non-leading posture of the distribution mechanism in the top winning device, respectively. Has been.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the game board 400 includes a base body 401, a flow changing member such as a nail 411 or a windmill (not shown) that changes the flow direction and flow speed of the game ball, The central structure 420 is arranged at approximately the center of 401 and guides the game ball flowing in from the entrance 421A to the vicinity of the start winning device 431 according to the first special symbol, and is arranged below the center of the central structure 420. A start winning device 431 according to the first special symbol, a start winning switch 441 for detecting a game ball that has entered the start winning device 431 (hereinafter also referred to as “medium start winning switch”) (see FIG. 14), and a central structure A start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol arranged on the right side of the center of 420 and a start winning switch 442 for detecting a game ball that has entered the start winning device 432 (hereinafter referred to as “right start winning prize”). (Referred to as “switch”) (see FIGS. 9 and 14), a lower prize-winning device 433 disposed below the starting prize-winning device 431, and a lower prize-winning switch 443 that detects a game ball that has entered the lower prize-winning device 433. (See FIG. 14), an upper prize device 434 disposed below the start prize device 432, an upper prize switch 444 (see FIG. 14) for detecting a game ball that has entered the upper prize device 434, A non-specific path switch 447 (see FIGS. 11 and 14) for detecting a game ball that has entered a non-specific path 60C (see FIG. 11) formed inside the big prize device 434, and an inside of the upper special prize device 434 A specific path switch 448 (see FIGS. 11 and 14) that detects a game ball that has entered the formed specific path 60E (see FIG. 11), and a start related to a normal symbol arranged on the upper side of the start winning device 432 A device 436, a start switch 446 for detecting a game ball that has entered the starter 436 (see FIG. 14), three general winning devices 439A arranged at the upper left of the lower large winning device 433, and a lower large winning device 433 A general winning device 439B arranged at the upper right of the player, a general winning switch 449A (see FIG. 14) for commonly detecting game balls that have entered the three general winning devices 439A, and a game ball that has entered the general winning device 439B. And a general winning switch 449B (see FIG. 14) for detection. The game balls that have entered the central structure 420 and the starter 436 are released to the game area. Each winning device, specifically, the starter winning device 431, the starter winning device 432, the lower grand prize winning device 433, and the upper grand prize winning. The game balls that have entered the device 434 and the general winning devices 439A and 439B are guided through a through-hole formed in the base 401 to a collection / discharge passage (not shown) formed on the back side of the base 401. In addition, the game balls that have not entered each winning device are guided to the collection discharge path through the discharge port 401A. The game balls guided to the collection discharge passage are discharged from the game machine 100 to a game ball circulation device (not shown) provided in a game machine installation facility (not shown). When a game ball enters one of the winning devices, a predetermined number of gaming balls corresponding to the type of the winning device are paid out from the payout device 540.

  Each of the start winning device 431 and the general winning devices 439A and 439B according to the first special symbol guides the entered game ball to the back side of the base 401 without changing the probability of entry of the game ball into them.

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the start winning device 432 according to the second special symbol has an entry prohibition posture (FIGS. 8A and 9A) and an entry permission posture (FIG. 8B). 9B and an entry restriction mechanism 452 that changes the entry probability by transition between them, and an entry restriction solenoid (hereinafter also referred to as a “right entry restriction solenoid”) 462 that drives the entry restriction mechanism 452. ing. The entry restriction mechanism 452 includes a movable claw piece 452A driven by the right entry restriction solenoid 462 and a movable tongue piece 452B interlocked with the movable claw piece 452A, and when the entry restriction mechanism 452 is in the entry prohibition posture. Since the movable tongue 452B is placed in the depth of the entrance 432A and the movable pawl 452A narrows the entrance 432A, the game ball cannot enter the start winning device 432, but the entry restriction mechanism 452 enters. In the case of the allowable posture, at least a part of the movable tongue piece 452B protrudes from the entrance 432A on the front side, and the movable claw piece 452 opens the entrance 432A, so that the game ball is a start winning device 432. You will be able to enter. The entry restriction mechanism 452 is a right entry restriction solenoid when a lottery based on the detection by the start switch 446 of a game ball that has entered the starter 436 related to the normal symbol is won in the lottery (hereinafter also referred to as “normal symbol lottery”). In response to the driving by 462, the vehicle moves to the approach allowable posture for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time.

  The lower prize-winning device 433 takes an entry prohibition posture and an entry allowance posture, an entry restriction mechanism 453 that restricts the entry of game balls into the inside, and an entry restriction solenoid that changes the posture of the entry restriction mechanism 453 (below) 463 (refer to FIG. 14). When the entry restriction mechanism 453 is in the entry prohibition posture, the entry restriction mechanism 453 closes the entrance, so that the game ball cannot enter the lower prize winning device 433, but the entry restriction mechanism 453 is in the entry allowable posture. When the entrance restriction mechanism 453 opens the entrance, the game ball can enter the lower prize-winning device 433.

  As shown in FIGS. 10 (A) and 10 (B) and FIGS. 11 (A) and 11 (B), the upper prize winning device 434 has an entry prohibition posture (FIG. 10 (A)) and an entry permission. The posture (FIG. 10B, FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B) is taken, and the posture of the entry restriction mechanism 454 for restricting the entry of the game ball into the inside and the posture of the entry restriction mechanism 454 are changed. An entrance restriction solenoid (hereinafter also referred to as “upper entry restriction solenoid”) 464 (see FIG. 14), a non-guided posture (FIG. 11A), and a guided posture (FIG. 11B) are awarded the top prize. A distribution mechanism 455 (only FIG. 11) that distributes the game balls that have entered the device 434 to the specific passage 60E (FIG. 11 only) or the non-specific passage 60C (only FIG. 11), and the posture of the distribution mechanism 455 is changed. Distribution switching solenoid 46 for switching the guide destination of the ball And a (see FIG. 14). When the entrance restriction mechanism 454 of the top prize winning device 434 is in the entry prohibition posture as shown in FIG. 10A, the entrance restriction mechanism 454 closes the entrance 434A so that the game ball becomes a top prize. If the entry restricting mechanism 454 is in the approach permitting posture as shown in FIG. 10B, the game ball receives a big prize when the entry restricting mechanism 454 opens the entrance 434A. The device 434 can be entered. Further, the game balls that have entered the grand prize winning device 434 are guided to the non-specific passage 60C when the distribution mechanism 455 is in the non-guided posture as shown in FIG. When the guiding posture is as shown in FIG. 11 (B), it is guided to the specific passage 60E.

  The entrance restriction mechanism 454 of the top prize winning device 434 is a lottery based on detection by the right start winning switch 442 of a game ball that has entered the start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as “second special symbol lottery”). ), When the small hit is won, the entrance allowable posture is shifted for a predetermined time according to the operation of the upper entry restriction solenoid 464. In addition, the distribution mechanism 455 shifts to the guidance posture in accordance with the operation of the distribution switching solenoid 465 after a predetermined time from the transition of the entry restriction mechanism 454 to the entry allowable posture, and further from the transition to the guidance posture for a predetermined time. Later, in response to the stop of the distribution switching solenoid 465, the guidance posture is restored.

  The entrance restriction mechanism 453 of the lower prize-winning device 433 is a lottery (hereinafter also referred to as “first special symbol lottery”) based on detection by the medium-start winning switch 441 that has entered the start winning device 431 related to the first special symbol. ), When winning a big win by the second special symbol lottery, and by winning the small bonus by the second special symbol lottery and the game ball that has flowed into the specific passage 60E within a predetermined period of time When it is detected by the switch 448, it shifts to the approach allowing posture for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time according to the operation of the lower entry restriction solenoid 463.

  In addition, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the game board 400 displays the first special symbol in a variable manner in accordance with the first special symbol lottery, or stops the first special symbol according to the lottery result. The special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol that is fixedly displayed in the display, and the second special symbol is variably displayed in accordance with the second special symbol lottery, or the second special symbol is stopped according to the lottery result And a special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol that is confirmed and displayed, and a special symbol hold display device 476 that displays the number of unit games held related to the first special symbol. The unit game related to the first special symbol is suspended up to 4 times. When the unit game related to the first special symbol is held up to the maximum number of times, even if a game ball entering the first start winning device 431 is detected by the middle start winning switch 441, the first special symbol is related. Unit game rights are not added. In addition, the unit game related to the second special symbol is not put on hold.

  The special symbol display device 471 relating to the first special symbol is composed of four single color light emitting units (not shown), and the display of the first special symbol is controlled by the main control board 920 (see FIG. 14). The The first special symbol is expressed by the light emission patterns of the four light emitting units. The special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol is composed of twelve monochrome light emitting units (not shown), and the display of the second special symbol is controlled by the main control board 920. The second special symbol is expressed by a light emission pattern of 12 light emitting units. The special symbol hold display device 476 displays the number of hold times by a combination of light emission states (off, on, flashing) of two single color light emitting units (not shown).

  In addition, the game board 400 includes a normal symbol display device 473 that displays normal symbols in a variable manner or displays the normal symbols in a fixed manner according to the lottery result, and a normal symbol lottery right. And a normal symbol hold display device 478 for displaying the hold state (the number of holds). A unit game related to a normal symbol is suspended up to four times. When the unit game related to the normal symbol is held up to the maximum number of times, even if the game ball that has entered the starter 436 is detected by the start switch 446, the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol is not added.

  The normal symbol display device 473 is composed of two light emitting portions (not shown) of two colors, and the display is controlled by the main control board 920 (see FIG. 14). Each light emitting unit selectively emits light in two colors, for example, red and green, and a normal symbol is expressed by a combination of light emitting colors of the two light emitting units. Further, the normal symbol hold display device 478 displays the number of hold times by a combination of light emission states (off, on, flashing) of two single color light emitting units (not shown).

  In addition, the game board 400 is provided in the central structure 420, and in the unit game related to at least one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the decoration board variably displays the decorative symbol or the decorative symbol is displayed in a fixed manner. A symbol display device 479 is provided. The decorative symbol variation display and confirmation display based on the control by the sub-control board 940 is substantially synchronized with the first special symbol and second special symbol variation display and confirmation display by the main control board 920. In the variation display of the decorative symbol, more complicated and various effects are executed than the variation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  The central structure 420 enters the frame body 421 and the guide passage 421C that guides the game ball guided from the entrance 421A and guided to the rolling stage 421B to the start winning device 431 related to the first special symbol with a very high probability. A guidance regulation mechanism 422 that regulates the guidance of the guidance regulation motor 423 (see FIG. 14) that drives the guidance regulation mechanism 422 is provided.

  Further, the game board 400 includes a board surface light emitting device 490 (see FIG. 14) provided on the back side of various structures, and the board surface light emitting device 490 accompanies the progress of the game based on the control by the sub control device 940. Various light emission effects and state notifications by light emission are executed.

  Here, operations of main devices of the game board 400 will be described. Prior to the description, various game states and transitions between game states will be described. The normal game state (hereinafter abbreviated as “normal game state”) is a state in which the variable display time of the first special symbol and the normal symbol is long (hereinafter also referred to as “non-short state”). In the case of winning the short-term bonus in the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, the state in which the variable display time of the first special symbol and the normal symbol is shorter than the non-short-time state after the special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “short-time” If you win a normal jackpot in the 1st special symbol lottery or the 2nd special symbol lottery, the game state will be passed through the special gaming state. Normal gaming state. The short-time gaming state is maintained until the total number of unit games related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), but thereafter returns to the normal gaming state. In addition, when a game ball is detected by the specific passage switch 448 within a predetermined period when a normal transition possible small hit is won in the second special symbol lottery, the normal game state is entered through the special game state, On the other hand, if a winning ball is selected in the second special symbol lottery, and a game ball is detected by the specific passage switch 448 within a predetermined period, the special game state is entered and the short game state is entered. . In addition, even if a win is made for a short-time transferable small hit or a normal transferable small hit, if a game ball is not detected by the specific path switch 448 within a predetermined period, the current game state is maintained. . However, as described above, in the case of the last unit game in the short-time game state, the game state returns to the normal game state based on the end of the unit game. The special game state is a non-time-short state.

  The operation of the main devices of the game board 400 will be described in chronological order. In the main control board 920, winning random numbers, big hit symbol random numbers, small hit symbol random numbers, stop pattern random numbers, various variation pattern random numbers related to special symbols (common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol) are generated, When a game ball that has entered the start winning device 431 related to the first special symbol in various gaming states is detected by the middle start winning switch 441, the right of the unit game related to the first special symbol is not held up to the maximum number of times. In this case, winning random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, and stop pattern random numbers related to special symbols are acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the main control board 920 RAM. At this time, if it is not in the special gaming state, not in the unit game control related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the right of the unit game related to the first special symbol is not reserved, immediately after storing them In addition, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is won based on the acquired winning random number, and it is not in the special gaming state, and during the unit game control related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, When the right of a unit game related to one special symbol is reserved, the determination is made after the end of the unit game control based on the unit game right related to all the special symbols already obtained, and it is in a special game state The determination is made after the end of the unit game control based on the right of the unit game related to all the first special symbols obtained after the special game state. When a big win is won in the first special symbol lottery, a stop symbol related to the first special symbol is further determined based on the acquired big hit symbol random number. Depending on the type of the stop symbol, it is determined which of the big hits, the normal big hit and the short-time big hit. The allocation probability for various jackpots varies depending on the current gaming state (short-time gaming state or normal gaming state). Specifically, the allocation probability for the short-and-big-time jacking is higher than that in the normal gaming state in the short-time gaming state. high. In addition, when the big win is not won in the first special symbol lottery, a predetermined lose symbol is set as the stop symbol.

  After the first special symbol lottery, based on the current gaming state, lottery result, stop pattern random number value, various variation pattern random number values, and the number of reserved unit rights related to the first special symbol, the first special symbol The design variation display time is determined, and the design variation pattern is selected. Thereafter, the variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 471 and the variable display (variation effect) of the decorative symbol on the decorative symbol display device 479 are started. In the first special symbol, the variable display time spans. Thus, the variable display according to the fixed pattern is continued, and the decorative display is continued according to the variable pattern over the variable display time in the decorative design. As the variable display time elapses, the stop symbol related to the first special symbol is fixedly displayed, and the symbol corresponding to the stop symbol of the first special symbol is fixedly displayed as a decorative symbol. The final display of the first special symbol and the decorative symbol is continued for at least a predetermined time.

  When the stop symbol related to the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state after the final display of the first special symbol. In the special gaming state, the entrance restriction mechanism 453 of the lower prize-winning device 433 is intermittently allowed to enter for a predetermined number of times. Either when a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls are detected by the lower prize winning switch 443 or when a predetermined maximum allowable allowable time has elapsed during each time the allowable entry posture of the entry restriction mechanism 453 In this case, the entry restriction mechanism 453 shifts to the entry allowable posture. Thereafter, after the elapse of a predetermined entry prohibition time, the entry restriction mechanism 453 again shifts to the entry allowable posture. This entry restriction operation is repeated a predetermined number of times. In addition, after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed from the start of the special game state (after the opening period), the entry restriction mechanism 453 shifts to the first entry allowable posture, and the entry prohibition from the transition to the final entry prohibited posture. The special gaming state ends after a lapse of time and a predetermined waiting time thereafter (after the ending period). After the end of the special gaming state, as described above, the game state is shifted according to the type of jackpot of this time.

  In various gaming states, when a game ball that has entered the start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol is detected by the right start winning switch 442, the unit related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol instead of the special gaming state. When the game control is not in progress, the winning random number, the big hit symbol random number, the small hit symbol random number and the stop pattern random number relating to the special symbol are acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control board 920 immediately after the storage. In addition, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is won based on the value of the acquired winning random number. Note that the unit game right related to the second special symbol does not have a holding function as in the case of the first special symbol, and the unit related to the first special symbol rather than the unit game control related to the second special symbol. Game control is preferentially executed. When a big win is won in the second special symbol lottery, a stop symbol of the second special symbol is further determined based on the acquired value of the big hit symbol random number. Depending on the type of the stop symbol, it is determined which of the big hits, the normal big hit and the short-time big hit. The allocation probability for various jackpots varies depending on the current gaming state (short-time gaming state or normal gaming state), and specifically, the probability of allocation to the short-and-big-time jackpot is higher than the normal gaming state in the short-time state. . In addition, even when the big win is lost in the second special symbol lottery, when the small hit is won, the stop symbol of the second special symbol is determined based on the acquired value of the small hit symbol random number. Depending on the type of the stop symbol, it is determined which of the small hits of the normal transition possible small hit and the short-time shiftable small hit. In addition, when neither a big win nor a small win is won, a predetermined lose symbol is set as a stop symbol.

  After the second special symbol lottery, the decorative symbol variation pattern is selected based on the current gaming state, the lottery result, and the stop pattern random number. Thereafter, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 472 is started, and the variable display with the constant pattern is continued over the variable display time. As the predetermined variable display time elapses, the second special symbol is displayed. The stop symbol related to the special symbol is fixedly displayed. The final display of the second special symbol is continued for at least a predetermined fixed time. In the decorative symbol display device 473, the effect based on the variation pattern is continued over the variation display time, and the variation corresponding to the stop symbol of the second special symbol is performed as the variation display time elapses.

  When the stop symbol related to the second special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state after the final display of the second special symbol. In the special gaming state, the entrance restriction mechanism 453 of the lower prize-winning device 433 is intermittently allowed to enter for a predetermined number of times. After the end of the special gaming state, as described above, the game state is shifted according to the type of jackpot of this time.

  When the stop symbol related to the second special symbol is the small hit symbol, the entry restricting mechanism 454 of the top prize winning device 434 shifts to the entry allowable posture after the confirmation display of the second special symbol. In a case where a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls are detected by the upper prize winning switch 444 or when a predetermined maximum allowable allowable time has elapsed in the allowable entry posture of the entry restriction mechanism 454. The entry restriction mechanism 454 shifts to the entry prohibition posture. In addition, during the allowed entry posture of the entry restriction mechanism 454, after a predetermined time from the transition to the allowed entry posture, the sorting mechanism 455 shifts to a guidance posture for guiding the game ball to the specific passage 60E, and further to the guidance posture. After a predetermined time from the transition, the game ball is not guided to the specific path 60E, and the game ball returns to the non-guided posture where the game ball is guided to the non-specific path 60C. When a game ball that has flowed into the specific path 60E within a predetermined period is detected by the specific path switch 448, the game state is shifted to the game state corresponding to the type of the small hit this time through the special game state. In the special gaming state, the entrance restriction mechanism 453 of the lower prize-winning device 433 is intermittently allowed to enter for a predetermined number of times. On the other hand, if the game ball is not detected by the specific path switch 448 within a predetermined effective period, the game state is maintained in the current game state without shifting to the special game state.

  In various gaming states, when a game ball that has entered the starter 436 is detected by the start switch 446, if the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol is not held up to the maximum number of times, the winning random number related to the normal symbol Is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control board 920. At this time, if it is not during the unit game control related to the normal symbol, immediately after the storage, and if during the unit game control related to the normal symbol, after the end of the unit game control based on the right of the unit game related to the existing normal symbol Based on the value of the winning random number related to the acquired normal symbol, it is determined whether or not the winning is won. As described above, when winning in the normal symbol lottery, a predetermined winning symbol is set as the stop symbol, and in the case of not winning in the normal symbol lottery, the predetermined lose symbol as the stop symbol is set. A symbol is set. After the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 473 starts the variable display of the normal symbol. In the non-time-short state, the variable pattern is continuously displayed over a predetermined variable display time, and in the time-short state. The variable display by a fixed pattern is continued over a predetermined variable display time shorter than the non-time-short state. As the predetermined time corresponding to the gaming state elapses, the stop symbol related to the normal symbol is fixedly displayed over a certain period of time.

  When the stop symbol related to the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the entry restriction mechanism 452 of the start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol shifts to the entry allowable posture at least once after the normal symbol confirmation display. Specifically, when winning in the non-time-short state (the normal game state and the special game state), the start winning device 432 has a predetermined maximum entry allowable time (for example, one time) (for example, one time). In the case of winning in the short-time state (short-time gaming state), the predetermined number of times (for example, two times) is greater than when the start winning device 432 is in the non-short-time state. ) For a predetermined maximum approach allowable time (for example, 4.8 seconds) longer than that in the non-time-short state, and intermittently shifts to the approach allowable posture. However, when a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls are detected by the right start winning switch 432, the entry restriction mechanism 452 shifts to the entry prohibition posture without waiting for the maximum entry allowable time to elapse. Further, even if the number of times of transition to the approach allowable posture has not reached the predetermined number of times, the operation of the start winning device 432 in the unit game related to the current normal symbol ends.

  The playability of the gaming machine 100 of this embodiment will be briefly described. In order to receive the second special symbol lottery, the player must first win in the normal symbol lottery, and the game ball is allowed to enter the start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol based on the winning. The start winning device 432 must be entered. The winning probability of winning for the normal symbol in the normal gaming state is the same as the winning probability in the short-time gaming state, but the staying time (for example, about 0) .1 second x 1) is set to be very short compared to the staying time in the short-time gaming state (for example, about 4.8 seconds x 3 times). The frequency per unit time is significantly smaller than the frequency per unit time at which the first special symbol lottery can be received. In addition, the probability (for example, 66/100) of entering the short-time game state is set to be relatively high when the special game state is entered via the second special symbol lottery in the short-time game state. Even if the game state is shifted to the special game state via the second special symbol lottery, the probability (for example, 0/100) of shifting to the short-time game state is set to be extremely low. In the short-time gaming state, the transition to the special gaming state via the first special symbol lottery and the short-time gaming state after the special gaming state in the case of transitioning to the special gaming state via the second special symbol lottery The probability of shifting to is set to be substantially the same (for example, about 2/3). Furthermore, in the short-time gaming state, since frequent game balls can be expected to enter the start winning device 432 and the upper prize device 434, the player can obtain at least a game ball by using the game balls acquired based on the entry. You can play games without significantly reducing

  Therefore, in the normal gaming state, the winning probability of the jackpot related to the first special symbol and the winning probability of the jackpot related to the second special symbol are the same, but as described above, the first special symbol in the normal gaming state Since the lottery frequency per unit time is significantly larger than the lottery frequency per unit time related to the second special symbol, the player aims to win the big hit in the first special symbol lottery, especially the short-term bonus win. Will play games. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, as described above, even when the jackpot winning probability related to the first special symbol and the jackpot winning probability related to the second special symbol are the same, Conversely, the lottery frequency per unit time related to the second special symbol is larger than the lottery frequency per unit time related to the first special symbol, and the winning rate per small time related to the second special symbol (for example, 440 / 443) is extremely high and there is a possibility of shifting to a special game state for each winning of the small hit (for example, the distribution ratio to the specific passage 60E; about 1/5), so the big win in the second special symbol lottery You will be playing with the aim of winning the winnings. Specifically, as can be seen from the structure of the game board 400 (see FIGS. 6 and 7), a game technique (left-handed game technique) that causes the game ball to flow down mainly from the left side of the central structure 420, and a center The game method (right-handed game method) that allows the game ball to flow down from the right side of the structure 420 can be selectively performed. In the normal game state, the player plays a game using the left-handed game method, After shifting to the short-time gaming state, the game is played using the right-handed gaming technique. Further, as can be seen from the structure of the game board 400, the game ball is more efficiently guided to the lower grand prize winning device 433 when the game ball is caused to flow down from the right side of the central structure 420 than from the left side of the central structure 420. Therefore, even in the special game state, the game is played by the right-handed game technique.

  The rear block 104 will be described. 12 and 13 are a perspective view and a rear view showing an example of the gaming machine, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the rear block 104 is attached to the base body 501, a support mechanism (not shown) that supports the base body 501 so that it can be opened and closed with respect to the intermediate block 103, and the base body 501. A game ball tank 510 that stores game balls supplied from a gaming machine fixing facility (not shown), and two game balls that are attached to the base 501 and stacked and stored on the downstream side of the game ball tank 510. The rails 520 are rectified and aligned in one stage, the case rails 530 are attached to the base body 501 on the downstream side of the tank rails 520 and guide the game balls flowing in from the tank rails 520, and the downstream sides of the case rails 530 The payout device 540 is attached to the base body 501 and executes the payout of game balls and the rental of game balls, and the base body downstream of the payout device 540 The guide member 550 that guides the game ball that has been attached to 01 and has flowed out of the payout device 540 to a guide passage (not shown) formed in the base body 501, and the payout device 540 pays out the game ball and lends the game ball. The payout control device 560 to be controlled, and external power is converted into electric power of a predetermined voltage required by various devices and the like, and the main control board 920 ejects game balls based on the firing operation to the firing operation device 250. Between the power supply / launch control device 900 controlled in cooperation with the payout control device 560, the game ball lending device 290 (see FIG. 1), and a card unit (not shown) arranged on the side of the gaming machine 100. And a relay device 950 that relays the above signal.

  The base body 501 is integrally formed of a resin (for example, ABS resin), and includes a substantially flat base portion 502 and a protective cover portion 503 protruding rearward from the base portion 502. The protective cover 503 is closed on the left and right sides and on the upper side, and only a part on the lower side is opened. A large number of air holes 502 </ b> A are formed on the back surface of the protective cover 503 to improve the heat dissipation of the heat generated in the main control device 370 and the sub control device 390.

  The game ball tank 510 is a horizontally long box-shaped container that opens upward, and game balls supplied from a ball circulation device (not shown) of the game machine fixing equipment are sequentially replenished from one end in the longitudinal direction. An opening (not shown) is formed on the bottom surface of one end in the longitudinal direction different from the side where the game ball is supplied in the game ball tank 510. The bottom surface of the game ball tank 510 is gently inclined in the longitudinal direction, and the game ball supplied to the game ball tank 510 moves to the opening side by its own weight. In addition, the game ball is more gently inclined with respect to the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (front-rear direction), and the game ball is guided predominantly to the front side (attachment surface side to the base 501). The game ball tank 510 is attached with an antistatic plate 511 (only in FIG. 8) covering at least a part of the bottom from one end to which the game ball is supplied from the ball circulation device to the vicinity of the center. 511 is connected to the ground potential.

  The tank rail 520 is attached below the game ball tank 510, and the game ball flows into the tank rail 520 through the opening of the game ball tank 510. The tank rail 520 has a hook-like member 521 that forms two rows (two strips) of bowl-shaped passages (not shown) partitioned by a partition piece (not shown), and is rotatable with respect to the bowl-shaped member 521. And a pair of rectifying members 522 that are rectified in two rows and aligned in a single row while preventing clogging of the game balls flowing down the bowl-shaped member 521. Each bowl-shaped passage 521 is gently inclined toward the downstream side, and guides the game ball to the side inflow from the game ball tank 510 and the opposite side in the longitudinal direction. The rectifying member 522 operates like a pendulum by contact with the game ball.

  The case rail 530 is arranged vertically along the one side surface portion of the protective cover portion 503, and a game ball from the tank rail 520 flows in. The case rail 530 is formed with two ball passages (not shown) that curve in the front-rear and left-right directions with wavy undulations so that game balls do not flow vigorously. In addition, a ball break detection switch 539 is attached upstream of the ball passage. The ball break detection switch 539 indicates that there are not enough game balls inside the case rail 530, that is, the ball is clogged upstream of the case rail 530 and the game balls are not replenished to the case rail 530. To detect.

  The payout device 540 includes a delivery mechanism 541 that delivers a game ball, and a payout motor 542 that drives the delivery mechanism. In accordance with the operation of the payout motor 542 based on the control by the payout control device 560, the game balls stored in the two ball paths are alternately discharged.

  The payout control device 560 includes a payout control board 930 and a board case that houses the payout control board 930, and the payout control board 930 cannot be opened without leaving a trace of opening, like the main control board 920. Thus, it is substantially sealed by the substrate case.

(Electrical configuration and various control processes)
Next, the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an electrical configuration of the gaming machine. As shown in FIG. 14, the gaming machine 100 includes control circuit devices such as a power supply / launch control device 900, a power supply monitoring board 910, a main control board 920, a payout control board 930, and a sub control board 940. In FIG. 14, a relay circuit device that only relays various signals is omitted. Hereinafter, these main control circuit devices will be individually described in detail.

  The power supply / launch control device 900 includes a power supply unit 901 that supplies power of a predetermined voltage to each part of the gaming machine 100 via a power supply path (broken line in the figure), and a launch device according to the operation of the launch operation device 250. A launch control unit 902 that controls the driving of 330, and a signal relay unit 903 that relays an initialization signal from the initialization switch 907 and a ball overflow signal from the ball overflow detection switch 249.

  The power supply unit 901 takes in external power (for example, AC 24 volts) supplied from the outside and converts it into internal power (for example, DC 24 volts), and uses various devices such as various solenoids and various motors from the internal power. Power for driving voltage (for example, DC 12 volts), power for control voltage (for example, DC 5 volts) for driving various switches and executing control processing, main control board The power of the backup voltage for holding the contents of the RAM of 920 and the RAM of the payout control board 930 is generated and supplied to the power supply monitoring board 910, the main control board 920, the payout control board 930, the sub control board 940, etc. To do. Specifically, internal power, drive voltage, control voltage, and backup voltage power are supplied to the power supply monitoring board 910, and drive voltage, control voltage, and backup voltage power are supplied to the main control board 920. Is supplied via the power supply monitoring unit 911 of the power supply monitoring board 910, and the driving voltage, the control voltage, and the backup voltage are directly supplied to the payout control board 930 and driven to the sub-control board 940. The power for the control voltage and the power for the control voltage are directly supplied, and the power for the drive voltage and the control voltage are supplied to the launch control unit 902. A power switch 909 is connected to the power supply unit 901. When the power switch 909 is in an off state, the external power capture is stopped. The game is performed by turning off the power switch 909 or removing a power plug (not shown) connected to the power supply unit 901 via the power switch 909 from an external power supply outlet (not shown). A state where the supply of power to the inside of the machine 100 is stopped and a state where the supply of external power itself is stopped are collectively referred to as a “power failure state”. The power supply unit 901 is configured to normally output the control voltage power over a predetermined period even after the transition to the power failure state. As a result, the main control board 920 and the payout control board 930 can save the state and finish the control so that the current control state can be restored.

  The launch control unit 902 controls the driving of the ball feed solenoid 332 and the launch solenoid 334 of the launch device 250 (see FIG. 1) in cooperation with the main control board 920. The ball feed solenoid 332 and the firing solenoid 334 are permitted to operate when predetermined conditions are met. Specifically, it is detected that the player is touching the firing handle 252 (see FIG. 1) based on a contact sensor signal from the contact sensor 254, and a launch stop switch 255 for stopping the launch is provided. On the condition that it is not operated, the firing control unit 902 outputs a firing permission signal in an on state to the main control board 920. The main control board 920 outputs a firing solenoid control signal and a ball feed solenoid control signal to the firing control unit 902 based on the firing permission signal and the firing abnormality signal. The firing control unit 902 activates the ball feed solenoid 332 based on the ball feed control signal in the on state, and activates the launch solenoid 334 based on the reception of the launch solenoid control signal in the on state and the resistance value of the variable resistor 253. Let As a result, the game balls are sequentially fired from the launching device 250 with a strength corresponding to the resistance value of the variable resistor 253 (the amount of rotation operation of the firing handle 252).

  The signal relay unit 903 outputs an on-state initialization signal to the main control board 920 when the initialization switch 907 is pressed. In the main control board 920, the stored information stored in the RAM of the main control board 920 is initialized in response to the reception of the on-state initialization signal. Further, when the ball overflow detection switch 249 detects a game ball, the signal relay unit 903 outputs an on-state ball overflow signal to the main control board 920. The main control board 920 outputs a low-speed payout signal to the payout control board 930 based on detection of the ball overflow signal in the on state, and the payout control board 930 that has received the low-speed payout signal The rotational speed (payout speed of the game ball from the payout device 540) is reduced. Conversely, a high-speed payout signal is output to the payout control board 930 based on the detection of the ball overflow signal in the off state, and the payout control board 930 that has received the high-speed payout signal increases the rotation speed of the payout motor 542. It will be.

  The power supply monitoring board 910 monitors the power supply state from the power supply / launch control device 900, and outputs a power failure signal to the main control board 920 and the payout control board 930 in accordance with the transition to the power failure state. And a signal relay unit 912 that relays power supply and transmission of various signals between the power source / launch control device 900 and the main control board 920. Specifically, the power supply monitoring unit 911 monitors the voltage of 24 VDC which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply unit 901, and the state where this voltage is less than 22 volts continues for a predetermined time. In this case, it is determined that a power failure has occurred, and a power failure signal in an on state is output to the main control board 920 and the payout control board 930. The main control board 920 and the payout control board 930 recognize the transition to the power outage state by receiving the power outage signal in the on state.

  The main control board 920 comprehensively controls the operation of the gaming machine 100. On the main control board 920, an MPU (not shown) as a one-chip microcomputer is mounted. The MPU includes a CPU (not shown) as an arithmetic processing unit, a ROM (not shown) storing various control programs and fixed data executed by the CPU, and various data temporarily during execution of the control program. And a RAM (not shown) for storing and the like. In addition, various circuits such as a timer circuit (not shown), a counter circuit (not shown), a clock generation circuit (not shown), a signal transmission / reception circuit (not shown) are mounted on the main control board 920. Yes. The RAM of the main control board 920 is configured to be able to maintain (back up) internal data by supplying the backup voltage from the power / fire control device 900 even after the transition to the power failure state.

  The payout control board 930 controls a game ball payout operation by the payout apparatus 540 according to an instruction from the main control board 920 and a game ball lending operation by the payout apparatus 540 according to an operation of the game ball lending apparatus 290. As with the main control board 920, the payout control board 930 is an MPU (not shown) as a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU (not shown), ROM (not shown), and RAM (not shown), a timer circuit. Various circuits such as (not shown), a counter circuit (not shown), a clock generation circuit (not shown), a signal transmission / reception circuit (not shown) are mounted. Similarly to the RAM of the main control board 920, the RAM of the payout control board 930 is configured to be able to maintain internal data even in a power failure state.

  The sub control board 940 controls operations of various rendering devices, various light emitting devices, various acoustic devices, and the like based on instructions from the main control board 920.

(Control processing on the main control board)
Various control processes executed by the main control board 920 will be described. The control process in the main control board 920 can be broadly divided into a main process that is started upon recovery from a power failure state, and a periodic interruption (in the form of 4 ms (milliseconds) in this embodiment). It consists of timer interrupt processing to be executed.

  A main process executed by the main control board 920 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of main processing of the main control board. In the main process of the main control board 920 (abbreviated as “main control main process” in the figure), as shown in FIG. 15, first, the main control board 920 is started up and various information is initialized. A series of control start processes (S1001 to S1020) are executed only once, and thereafter, an interrupt prohibition process S1021 for prohibiting an interrupt, a winning random number initial value counter (partial area of RAM) related to a special symbol, a special symbol Big hit symbol random number initial value counter (part of RAM), special hit symbol random number initial value counter (part of RAM), special symbol winning random number initial value counter (part of RAM) ) And the random number initial value update processing S1022 for updating the value of the winning random number initial value counter (part of the RAM) related to the normal symbol, the variation time, the variation pattern, etc. The variation counter updating process S1023 for updating the values of the first variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter (partial area of the RAM) for determination and the interrupt permitting process S1024 for permitting an interrupt are repeatedly executed. Is done. When a timer interrupt request is generated, the timer interrupt process is executed immediately after the interrupt permission process S1024.

  In the control start process, first, a program start process S1001 for setting an initial value in a stack pointer (part of the RAM) for controlling the execution of a program, an interrupt mode setting process S1002 for setting an interrupt mode, and a payout control board A stand-by standby process S1003 that waits for a predetermined time until 930, the sub-control board 940, and the like stand up is executed. Thereafter, the determination state S1004 of the initialization signal output from the initialization switch 907 of the power supply / emission control device 900, the determination S1005 of the value of the power failure information (part of the RAM), and the determination S1007 of the storage state of the stored information Based on this, it is determined whether or not the information of substantially the entire area of the RAM is erased. The storage state of the stored information is calculated by calculating a checksum value for a storage area in a predetermined range of the RAM (S1006), and the current checksum value and the power failure information update process S1102 accompanying the transition to the previous power failure state. Whether or not the exclusive OR of the checksum value calculated in step 2 and the RAM determination value that is the complement of 2 is “0” (S1007) and the checksum at the time of transition to the power failure state It is determined whether or not the values are the same. When the initialization signal is in the on state (S1004: Y), or when the power failure information is not a predetermined power failure value indicating that the stored information is stored and terminated when the power failure state is shifted (S1005: N), or the stored information is If not normally held (S1007: N), a RAM clear process S1008 for erasing information on substantially the entire area of the RAM is executed. In addition, when hardware initialization processing S1009 for initializing various devices connected to the main control board 920 is executed and the power failure information is a power failure value (S1010: N), the retained information is restored. RAM reset setting processing S1011 for initial setting of various information including and a return command setting processing S1012 for setting a return command indicating the completion of the setting are executed. On the other hand, when the power failure information is not a power failure value (S1010: Y) A RAM initial setting process S1013 for initializing various types of information without restoring the retained information and an initialization command setting process S1014 for setting an initialization command indicating completion of the setting are executed. By returning the stored information in the RAM return setting process S1011, the control state immediately before the transition to the previous power failure state is restored. In the RAM recovery setting process S1011 and the RAM initial setting process S1013, the power failure information is also set to a predetermined energization value different from the power failure value, and various error states such as a fraud detection error immediately before the transition to the previous power failure state. Even if an error occurs, all those error states are cleared. Also, the return command and the initialization command are output from the main control board 920 to both the payout control board 930 and the sub control board 940, and the payout control board 930 and the sub control board 940 that have received the return command and the initialization command. In each of these, a predetermined initialization process is executed.

  Also, the output state of the switch abnormality signal is determined (S1015), and if it is in the on state (S1015: Y), a connection abnormality command setting process S1016 for setting a connection abnormality command is executed. The connection abnormality command is output to the sub-control board 940, and the sub-control board 940 informs the decorative symbol display device 479 that a connection abnormality has occurred based on the reception of the command. . Further, it is determined whether the time-short state or the non-time-short state is set (S1017). If the time-short state is set (S1017: Y), a time-short command setting process S1018 for setting a time-short command is executed. If it is in the state (S1017: N), non-short-time command setting processing S1019 for setting a short-time command is executed. Also, a random number initial setting process S1020 for initializing the value of the winning random number counter (part of the RAM) related to the special symbol is executed.

  A timer interrupt process executed by the main control board 920 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing executed by the main control board. In the timer interrupt process (abbreviated as “main control interrupt process” in the figure) of the main control board 920, as shown in FIG. 16, first, an interrupt start process S1101 for starting a timer interrupt is executed. Specifically, a predetermined value is set in the interrupt control register. Thereafter, the power failure information update process S1102 to the external information setting process S1121 related to the substantial control of the gaming machine 100 is sequentially executed. Finally, a timer interrupt permission process for permitting the next timer interrupt is executed, and the current timer interrupt process ends. However, when the game progress is stopped based on various fraud detections (S1007: Y), the control signal output process S1108 to the external information setting process S1121 are not executed. In the following, various main processes will be described individually.

  In the power failure information update process S1102, the value of the power failure information (a part of the RAM) is updated based on the output state of the power failure signal output from the power monitoring unit 911 of the power monitoring device 910. Specifically, the output state of the power failure signal is confirmed three times, and when a power failure signal that is in the on state is detected in all three times, the power failure information is determined to be in the power failure state, and the value of the power failure information is changed to the RAM recovery setting process S1011 The energization value set in the RAM initial setting process S1013 is changed to a predetermined power failure value. On the other hand, when it is not determined that there is a power outage, the power outage information is maintained at the energization value. When the power failure information is changed to a power failure value, a checksum value for a storage area in a predetermined range of the RAM is calculated, and the 2's complement of the checksum value is set as the RAM determination value.

  In the random number update process S1103, the winning random number counter related to the special symbol, the big hit symbol random number counter, the small hit symbol random number counter, the stop pattern selection counter, and the winning random number counter related to the normal symbol are updated. Specifically, when the value of the winning random number counter related to the special symbol is a value different from the specified maximum value (for example, “576”), the value is changed by “1” larger than the current value, and the special symbol is changed. When the value of the winning random number counter relating to is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). However, if the value after the change is the same as the cyclic initial value for the winning random number counter related to the special symbol, the value of the winning random number counter related to the special symbol is the same as the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol. The cyclic initial value is also set to the same value as the winning random number initial value counter. For the big hit symbol random number counter, the small hit symbol random number counter, the stop pattern selection counter, and the winning random number counter related to the normal symbol, the specified maximum value and the specified minimum value are specific to those counters, and each counter The initial setting based on the cyclic initial value is updated in the same manner as in the case of the winning random number counter related to the special symbol, except that the initial value counter unique to the counter is referred to. The winning random number counter related to the special symbol and the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol have the same value range, and the big hit symbol random number counter and the big hit symbol random number initial value counter have the same value range, The small hit symbol random number counter and the small hit symbol random number initial value counter have the same value range, and the winning random number counter related to the normal symbol and the winning random number initial value counter related to the normal symbol have the same value range.

  In random number initial value update processing S1104, the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol, the big hit symbol random number initial value counter, the small hit symbol random number initial value counter, and the winning random number initial value counter related to the normal symbol are updated. Specifically, if the value of the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol is different from the specified maximum value (for example, “576”), the value is changed to a value “1” larger than the current value, When the value of the winning random number initial value counter related to the symbol is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). The initial random number counter for the special symbol and the initial random number counter for the normal symbol are also the initial random numbers for the special symbol, except that the specified maximum value and the specified minimum value are unique to those counters. It is updated in the same way as the value counter.

  In the variation counter update process S1105, the values of the first variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter for determining the variation time, variation pattern, and the like are updated. Specifically, when the value of the first variation type counter is a value different from the specified maximum value (for example, “187”), it is changed to a value that is larger by “1” than the current value, and the special symbol When the value of the winning random number initial value counter is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). The second variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter are also updated in the same manner as the first variation type counter except that the specified maximum value and the specified minimum value are values unique to those counters. Is done.

  In the game stop determination process S1106, when the fraud detection information is a fraud detection value, it is updated to the game stop value and various information for stopping the game progress is set. On the other hand, when the fraud detection information is not the fraud detection value or when the fraud detection value is already the game stop value, the game stop determination process S1106 ends without executing the substantial process. The fraud detection information is set to a fraud detection value when occurrence of various frauds is detected in the fraud detection processing S1111. In the determination process S1107, it is determined whether or not the game is stopped depending on whether or not the fraud detection information is a game stop value.

  In the control signal output process S1108, based on the control data stored in the output buffer, the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol, the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol, and the normal symbol related to the normal symbol Signals for controlling various notification devices such as the symbol display device 473 are output. Further, based on the control data stored in the output buffer, signals for controlling various actuators such as a ball feed solenoid 332, a firing solenoid 334, various entry restriction solenoids 462, 463, 464, and a guidance restriction motor 423 are output. The

  In the switch reading process S1109, signal states from the middle start winning switch 441, the right starting winning switch 442, the lower large winning switch 443, the upper large winning switch 444, the starting switch 446 and the general winning switches 449A and 449B are read. The change in the detection state of the game ball by various switches is detected. Specifically, in the switch reading process S1009, the signal states from the various switches are read into the input buffer (part of the RAM) twice over a predetermined time interval, and the signals from the various switches are read. Each time, the signal state read for the first time (hereinafter abbreviated as “first signal state”) and the signal state read for the second time (hereinafter abbreviated as “second signal state”) Based on the detection state detected by the previous timer interrupt (hereinafter abbreviated as “previous detection state”), changes in the detection state of various switches are detected. More specifically, for each switch, when the previous detection state is the off state, the first signal state is the on state, and the second signal state is the on state. And a detection flag (a partial area of the RAM) corresponding to the type of switch is set.

  In the timer update process S1110, a special symbol related control timer, a normal symbol related control timer, an upper prize winning control timer, an illegal lower prize winning monitoring delay timer, an illegal upper prize winning monitoring delay timer, a matching error release delay timer, and vibration sensor game stop Various timers (a predetermined area of the RAM) such as a monitoring timer and a radio wave sensor monitoring delay timer are updated. Specifically, when the value of the special symbol related control timer is not a predetermined release value (for example, “0”), it is changed to a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the current value, and the current value is the release value. In some cases, the release value is maintained.

  In the fraud detection process S1111, an illegal act of forcibly entering a game ball into various winning devices or forcing the various winning devices to operate is detected.

  In the winning detection response process S1112, the middle start winning counter (predetermined area of the RAM) and the first payout counter (predetermined area of the RAM) are updated based on the detection of the game ball by the intermediate start winning switch 441, and the right start winning prize is received. The first payout counter is updated based on the detection of the game ball by the switch 442, and the upper prize counter (a predetermined area of the RAM) and the first payout counter are updated based on the detection of the game ball by the upper prize winning switch 444. The second payout counter (a predetermined area in the RAM) is updated based on the detection of the game ball by the lower prize winning switch 443, and the second payout counter is determined based on the detection of the game ball by either of the general payout switches 449A, 449B. Is updated.

  In the launch control process S1113, launch related information for controlling the launch of the game ball by the launch device 330 is updated. Specifically, the operation flag of the ball feed solenoid 332 that drives the ball feed mechanism 331 and the operation flag of the firing solenoid 334 that drives the firing mechanism 333 are updated.

  In the input signal monitoring process S1114, it is detected whether the intermediate block 103 is open or closed with respect to the outer frame 101 based on the output state of the signal from the open / close detection switch 108 via the payout control board 930. Is done. Further, based on the output state of the signal from the open / close detection switch 109 via the payout control board 940, it is detected whether or not the front block 102 is closed with respect to the intermediate block 103.

  In the payout state monitoring process S1115, information representing the payout control state output from the payout control board 930 is monitored, and various payout state commands corresponding to the payout control state are set as necessary. The sub control board 940 that has received the payout state command causes the decorative symbol display device 479 and the audio devices 281 and 282 to execute notification according to the type of the payout state command.

  In the payout signal output process S1116, various prize ball commands are set based on the values of the first payout counter and the second payout counter as necessary, and are output to the payout control board 930. The first payout counter and the second payout counter are updated according to the setting of the prize ball command.

  In the special symbol related process S1117, the unit game right holding control relating to the first special symbol and the unit game control relating to the first special symbol and the second special symbol are executed. Specifically, operation control of the special symbol hold display device 476 is executed in the hold control of the right of the unit game related to the first special symbol. In addition, in the unit game control related to the first special symbol, the operation control of the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol is executed, and when the big win is won in the first special symbol lottery, the lower big prize device 433 The operation control is further executed. In addition, in the unit game control related to the second special symbol, the operation control of the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol is executed, and when the big win is won in the second special symbol lottery, the lower big prize device 433 On the other hand, in the case of winning a small hit in the second special symbol lottery, the operation control of the top prize winning device 434 is further executed. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the operation of the big prize device 434, the operation control of the lower big prize device 433 is also executed.

  In the normal symbol related process S1118, the unit game right holding control related to the normal symbol and the unit game control related to the normal symbol are executed. Specifically, the operation control of the normal symbol hold display device 478 is executed in the hold control of the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol. In the unit game control related to the normal symbol, the operation control of the normal symbol display device 473 related to the normal symbol is executed, and when the winning is won in the normal symbol lottery, the operation control of the right start winning device 432 is further executed.

  In the display control process S1119, in order to control the operations of the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol, the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol, the special symbol hold display device 476, etc. in the special symbol related process S1117 Based on various information to be updated, output data for specifically operating these devices is synthesized. The synthesized output data is output to each device in the control signal output process S1108 in the next interrupt process.

  In the motor control process S1120, operation control of the induction restriction motor 423 that drives the induction restriction mechanism 421 of the central structure 420 is executed. Specifically, excitation pattern data for operating a stepping motor as the induction regulating motor 423 is set. The set excitation pattern data is output to the induction regulating motor 423 in the control signal output process S1108 in the next interruption process.

  In the external information setting process S1121, output data to be output to an external device such as a data display device (not shown) or a management device (not shown) electrically connected to the gaming machine 100 is set. This output data is output to each device in the control signal output process S1108 in the next interrupt process.

  Here, the special symbol related process S1117 will be described in detail. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special symbol related process. FIGS. 18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the first half and the second half of an example of the top prize winning device operating process in the special symbol related process, respectively, and FIG. 20 is the top prize winning device stop in the special symbol related process. It is a flowchart showing an example of a process.

  In the special symbol related process S1117, as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether or not the detection flag of the middle start winning switch 441 is set (S1201), and if the detection flag is set, The middle start winning process S1202 is executed. Also, it is determined whether the special symbol related control timer is set (whether the value is other than “0”) or released (whether the value is “0”), and the special symbol related control timer is determined. If is canceled, a zero flag is set. It is determined based on the zero flag whether the special symbol related control timer in the special symbol variation starting process S1204 to the upper prize winning device stopping process S1212 is set (operating) or released (stopped). Then, according to the special symbol related state identification value, any one of the special symbol variation start process S1204 to the top prize winning device stop process S1212 is selectively executed. Here, the special symbol related state identification value is a value for identifying the progress stage of the unit game control related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and the special symbol related control timer performs time control in each progress stage. And is commonly used in all progress stages. In the following, main processes will be described for each process.

  In the middle start winning process S1202, if the number of reserved unit rights for the first special symbol (hereinafter abbreviated as “special symbol reserved number”) is not greater than the maximum allowable number, the special symbol reserved number is updated. A command including information on the number of reserved special symbols that will be transmitted to the sub-control board 940 is acquired from a set of random numbers from the winning random number counter, the big hit symbol counter, and the stop pattern selection counter related to the special symbol. Is done.

  In the special symbol variation start process S1204, it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is “0”. If the number of special symbol hold is not “0”, the unit game control related to the first special symbol is started. Various types of information are initially set, and each set of random numbers based on the winning random number counter, the big hit symbol counter, and the stop pattern selection counter related to the special symbol that has already been acquired is stored in a predetermined area of a RAM (not shown). The acquisition order is kept in order. As a result, the first set of random numbers acquired at the earliest is determined as a winning determination target in the current first special symbol lottery. On the other hand, when the number of special symbol hold is “0”, it is determined whether or not the detection flag of the right start winning switch 442 is set. If the detection flag is set, the second special Various information is initially set to start the unit game control related to the symbol, and a set of random numbers is acquired from the winning random number counter, the big hit symbol counter, the small hit symbol counter and the stop pattern selection counter related to the special symbol. The As a result, the obtained set of random numbers is determined as a winning determination target in the current second special symbol lottery.

  In addition, the winning determination is performed based on the random number acquired from the winning random number counter among the set of random numbers that are the current determination targets. Specifically, in the unit game control according to the first special symbol, it is determined whether it is a big hit or a lost game, and in the case of a big hit, a big hit flag (a predetermined area of the RAM) is set. Based on the random number acquired from the jackpot symbol counter among the set of random numbers to be determined for winning this time, the symbol corresponding to the stop symbol according to the first special symbol corresponds to the non-time bonus jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “non-time bonus bonus symbol”). Or a symbol corresponding to the time and juncture bonus (hereinafter also abbreviated as "time and juncture symbol"). In the case of a loss, the stop symbol related to the first special symbol is determined as a predetermined loss symbol. In addition, in the unit game control related to the second special symbol, it is determined whether it is a big hit, a small hit or a loss, and if it is a big win, a big hit flag is set and the current winning determination is made. Based on the random number obtained from the jackpot symbol counter among the set of random numbers, it is determined whether the stop symbol related to the second special symbol is a non-temporal bonus symbol or an hourly bonus symbol, Is set, the small hit flag is set, and the symbol corresponding to the normal shiftable small hit based on the random number obtained from the small hit symbol counter among the set of random numbers to be selected this time Is abbreviated as “normally transitionable small hit symbol”) or a symbol corresponding to a short shiftable small hit symbol (hereinafter also abbreviated as “short shiftable small hit symbol”). That. In the case of a loss, the stop symbol related to the second special symbol is determined to be a predetermined loss symbol. After the stop symbol is determined, depending on the type of the special symbol and the type of the stop symbol, the stop pattern identification value indicating the type of jackpot, the special game mode identification value indicating the game mode in the special game state, and the special game state after A time reduction flag indicating the state of the gaming state is set.

  In addition, the first special symbol based on the random number acquired from the stop pattern selection counter and the random number newly acquired from the first variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter among the set of random numbers that are the current determination targets. And the variable display time related to the second special symbol is determined, the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the variable display time, the variation pattern determining the effect mode related to the decorative symbol is selected, and the variation command is Is set. Thereafter, various types of information are set to start the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. At this time, the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “1”. As a result, the special symbol variation display process S1205 is executed in the next timer interruption.

  Further, when the number of special symbol hold is “0” and the detection flag of the right start winning switch 442 is not set, it is determined whether or not the display of the decorative symbol display device 479 is changed to a predetermined demonstration display. The process for performing is performed.

  In the special symbol variation display processing S1205, the first special symbol variation display control and the second special symbol variation display control are executed. Specifically, when the variable display time has not elapsed since the start of the variable display and the special symbol related control timer is set, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is continued. In addition, by receiving the variation command in the sub-control device 940, the decorative symbol effect display is also performed in the variation effect mode according to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation start process S1204. On the other hand, when the special symbol related control timer is canceled because the variable display time has elapsed from the start of the variable display, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is started in order to start the fixed display of the first special symbol. The stop symbol related to the symbol or the second special symbol is set as a display symbol, the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to a predetermined fixed display time, and the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “2”. . As a result, the special symbol confirmation display process S1206 is executed in the timer interruption from the next time onward.

  In the special symbol fixed display process S1206, the fixed display control of the first special symbol and the fixed display control of the second special symbol are executed. Specifically, when the fixed display time has not elapsed since the start of the fixed display and the special symbol related control timer is set, the fixed display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is continued. In addition, by the reception of the variation command in the sub-control device 940, the decorative symbol effect display is also performed in a definite effect mode according to the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation start process S1204. On the other hand, if the special symbol related control timer is canceled due to the lapse of the final display time from the start of the final display, the lower big prize device will be used if the big win is won according to the lottery result. In order to shift to the operation control of 433, when winning a small hit, it is necessary to shift to the operation control of the top prize winning device 434 in order not to win either the big win or the small win. In order to shift to the next unit game control related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, various information is updated. At this time, if the jackpot is won, the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “3”, and the special symbol related control timer is set to a predetermined operation start waiting time (opening time) for the lower prize winning device 434. The special symbol related state identification value is changed to “7” when it is set to the corresponding value and the small hit is won, and the special symbol related state identification value is set to “0” when it is lost. It is changed and the special symbol related control timer is released. In accordance with the change of the special symbol related state identification value, the lower big prize device operation start processing S1207, the upper big prize device operation processing S1211 or the special symbol variation start processing S1204 is executed in the next timer interruption. In addition, when the jackpot flag is not set and in the last unit game control in the short-time gaming state, various information is updated to end the short-time gaming state and shift to the normal gaming state. The In addition, since the operation flag of the upper entry restriction solenoid 454 is set when the small win is won, the upper prize winning device 434 starts shifting to the entry allowable state at the next timer interruption. It becomes.

  In the lower prize-winning device operation start process S1207, a process for starting the operation of the lower prize-winning device 433 is executed. Specifically, when the operation start standby time has not elapsed since the end of the final display and the special symbol related control timer is set, the standby state is continued. On the other hand, when the special symbol related control timer is canceled because the operation start standby time has elapsed since the end of the confirmation display, the special symbol related control timer corresponds to the maximum allowable entry time of each time of the lower prize winning device 433 The special symbol related state identification value is changed to “4”, and the big prize counter that measures the number of game balls entering the lower big prize device 433 for each entry permitted state is released. The operation flag of the entry restriction solenoid 463 is set. As a result, in the next timer interrupt, the lower prize-winning device 433 starts shifting to the first entry allowable state, and the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “4” in the next timer interrupt. As a result, the lower middle prize-permitted processing S1208 is executed. Also, the big prize allowance counter indicating the remaining number of times that the lower major prize winning device 433 is shifted to the entry permitted state is changed to a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the current value, and the lower major prize winning device 433 is shifted to the entry permitted state. The sub-large winning allowance counter indicating the number of times is changed to a value obtained by adding “1” from the current value, and a large winning allowable command corresponding to the value of the changed large winning allowable counter is set.

  In the lower major prize-permitting process S1208, a process when the lower major prize-winning device 433 is in the entry-permitted state is executed. Specifically, when the maximum allowable entry time has not elapsed since the start of the transition to the entry allowable state of the lower large prize winning device 433 and the special symbol related control timer is set, the value of the big prize counter is When the number is less than a specified number (for example, 10 balls), the entry allowable state is continued. On the other hand, when the special symbol-related control timer is canceled because the maximum allowable entry time has elapsed since the start of the transition to the allowable entry state of the lower prize-winning device 433, or when the value of the big prize counter is greater than or equal to the specified number The special symbol-related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the last entry prohibition time of the lower prize-winning device 433 in the last entry permission state, and lower in the entry permission state other than the last entry. The value corresponding to the entry prohibition time of the special winning device 433 is set, the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “5”, the operation flag of the lower special winning restriction solenoid 463 is canceled, and the illegal lower special winning monitoring delay timer is set. Is set to a value corresponding to a predetermined lower prize winning monitoring delay time.

  In the lower big prize winning prohibition process S1209, a process when the lower big prize winning device 433 is in the entry prohibited state is executed. Specifically, after the last entry permission state from the start of the transition to the entry prohibition state of the lower grand prize winning device 433, the entry prohibition time of the final entry, and the entry prohibition after the entry permission state other than the last entry If the time has not elapsed and the special symbol related control timer is set, the entry prohibition state is continued. On the other hand, when the special symbol related control timer is canceled because the entry prohibition time has elapsed since the start of the transition to the entry prohibition state of the lower prize winning device 433, in order to shift to the next entry permission state, The special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the maximum allowable permissible time of each time of the lower prize winning device 433, the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “4”, the big prize counter is canceled, The winning monitoring delay timer is canceled, the operation flag of the lower entry restricting solenoid 463 is set, the big winning allowable counter is changed to a value obtained by subtracting “1” from the current value, and the auxiliary big winning allowable counter is changed from the current value. The value is changed to a value obtained by adding “1”, and a special winning allowance command corresponding to the changed sub special winning allowance counter is set. In addition, when the special symbol related control timer is released due to the elapse of the last maximum allowable entry time from the start of the transition to the entry permission state of the lower prize-winning device 433, to shift to the operation completion standby state. In addition, the symbol-related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the operation end waiting time (ending time) of the lower prize-winning device 433, and the first special symbol and the second special symbol are set according to the type of the trigger to enter the special gaming state. The special game state based on the normal big jackpot and the special game state via the second special symbol that can be transferred to the normal special bonus state, the special transition based on the normal state transition effect command, the first special symbol and the special bonus based on the time special jackpot of the second special symbol In the game state and the special game state via the second special symbol that can be shifted to the short time, a short time state transition effect command is set and the special symbol related state identification value is set. It is changed to "6". As a result, in the entry prohibition state other than the final round, the lower prize-winning device 433 starts transition to the entry-permitted state at the next timer interrupt, and the lower-big prize-allowed processing is performed at the next and subsequent timer interruptions. On the other hand, in the final entry prohibition state, the entry prohibition state of the lower prize-winning device 433 is maintained in the next timer interrupt and the lower-large prize winning device operation end process S1210 is executed. Will be.

  In the lower prize-winning apparatus operation end process S1210, a process for ending the operation control of the lower prize-winning apparatus 433 is executed. Specifically, when the operation completion standby time has not elapsed since the start of the operation completion standby state of the lower prize-winning device 433 and the special symbol related control timer is set, the operation completion standby state is continued. . On the other hand, when the operation end standby time has passed since the start of the operation end standby state of the lower prize-winning device 433 and the special symbol related control timer is released, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are related. In the case of a special game state based on a short-time big hit and a special game state via a short-time shiftable small hit according to the second special symbol, a short-time state flag is set, a short-time state counter is set to the maximum number of short-time games, In the special gaming state based on the normal jackpot related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and the special gaming state via the normal transitionable jackpot of the second special symbol, the short-time state flag is maintained in the released state. The release state of the time reduction state counter is maintained. In addition, when the short-time state flag is not set, the variation selection state for making the selection of the variation pattern related to the first special symbol in the unit game control a predetermined number of times after the special game state differs from other unit game controls When the counter is set to a specified value (for example, “20”) corresponding to a predetermined specified number of times and the non-short-time command is set, while the short-time state flag is set, the variation selection state counter is in the release state. And a short time command is set. Finally, various information is updated to stop the lower prize-winning device 433.

  In the upper prize winning device operation process S1211, a process for controlling the operation of the upper prize winning device 434 is executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 18, it is determined whether or not the detection flag of the non-specific passage switch 447 is set (S1301), and the detection flag is set (S1301: N). The discharge counter is changed to a value obtained by adding “1” to the current value (S1302). Further, it is determined whether or not the detection flag of the specific passage switch 448 is set (S1303). If the detection flag is set (S1303: N), the discharge counter (a predetermined area of the RAM) is set. The current value is changed to a value obtained by adding “1” (S1304), and the upper prize counter (predetermined area of RAM) is set, and the specific passage valid flag (predetermined area of RAM) is set. If it is present (S1305: N, S1306: Y), various pieces of information are set in order to shift to the special game state (S1307). In addition, it is determined whether or not the top prize winning switch 444 is set (S1308). If the detection flag is set (S1308: N), the top prize winning counter is only “1” as the current value. When the value is changed to the added value (S1309) and the big prize counter is less than a predetermined number (for example, “10”) (S1310: N), the big prize counter is also set to “1” as the current value. The added value is changed (S1311). When the changed big prize counter is equal to or greater than the prescribed number and the operation flag of the upper entry restriction solenoid 454 is set (S1312: N, S1313: N), the operation flag of the upper entry restriction solenoid 454 is canceled ( S1314), the special symbol related control timer is reset to a value corresponding to the detection allowable extension time of the upper prize winning switch 444 (S1315). As a result, regardless of the maximum allowable entry time for the top prize winning device 434, the top prize winning device 434 enters the entry prohibited state.

  As shown in FIG. 19, when the maximum allowable entry time has not elapsed since the start of the transition to the entry allowable state of the top prize winning device 434 and the special symbol related control timer is set (S1316: N) is a guidance start value indicating that a predetermined guidance start waiting time has elapsed from the start of the transition to the entry permitted state of the top prize winning device 433 according to the value of the special symbol related control timer ( In S1318: Y), the operation flag of the distribution switching solenoid 464 is set and the specific passage valid flag is set (S1319, S1320), indicating that the maximum guidance time has elapsed since the guidance start waiting time has elapsed. If it is the guidance end value to be represented (S1321: Y), the operation flag of the distribution switching solenoid 464 is canceled (S1322), and the entry permission status of the top prize winning device 434 is displayed. When the maximum allowable entry time has elapsed from the start of the transition to, and the valid period end value represents that the allowable detection extension time of the specific path switch 448 has elapsed since the maximum guidance time has elapsed (S1323: Y). Then, the operation flag of the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 is released (S1324), the specific passage validity flag is released (S1325), and the solenoid operation end flag (a predetermined area of the RAM) is set (S1326). Note that after the solenoid operation end flag is set, it is not necessary to make a determination according to the intermediate value of the special symbol related control timer, so various determination processes and various processes associated with the determination are not executed (S1317: Y; (S1318-S1326 skip). On the other hand, if the maximum valid time of the big prize switch 444 has passed since the start of the transition to the entry permitted state of the upper prize winning device 434 and the special symbol related control timer is released (S1316: Y), Various pieces of information are updated to stop the big prize device 434 (S1327). As a result, the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the operation completion standby time of the lower prize-winning device 433, and the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “8”.

  In the upper prize winning device stop process S1212, a process for stopping the upper prize winning device 434 is executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the shortest operation end standby time of the top prize winning device 434 has not elapsed since the start of the operation finish waiting state of the top prize winning device 434, and the special symbol related control timer is When it is set (S1401: Y), when the detection flag of the specific passage switch 448 is set (S1406: Y), the discharge counter is changed to a value obtained by adding “1” from the current value (S1407). ) And the non-specific passage switch 447 detection flag is set (S1408: Y), the discharge counter is changed to a value obtained by adding “1” from the current value (S1409), thereby increasing the discharge counter value. The operation end standby state is continued until the value of the winning counter is equal to or greater than the value of the winning counter (S1410: Y) (S1411 to S1415 are skipped). In addition, since the value of the discharge counter does not exceed the value of the upper prize winning counter, the operation completion waiting time of the upper prize winning device 434 has elapsed since the start of the operation completion waiting state of the upper prize winning device 434, and the special symbol related control is performed. When the timer is released (S1401: N), the alignment abnormality cancellation delay timer is set to a value corresponding to a predetermined alignment abnormality cancellation delay time (S1402), and the discharge abnormality transmission flag is set. If not (S1403: N), the abnormal discharge transmission flag is set and the abnormal discharge command is set (S1404, S1405). Thereafter, as in the above case, the value of the discharge counter is the value of the top prize winning counter. The operation end standby state is continued until the value exceeds the value.

  When the value of the discharge counter becomes equal to or greater than the value of the top prize winning counter in the operation completion standby state of the top prize winning device 434 (S1410: N), an alignment command is set (S1411) and the big hit flag is set. If it is not set (S1412: N), various information is updated in order to shift to the unit game related to the next special symbol (S1413), and special if the jackpot flag is set Various information is updated to shift to the gaming state (S1414). Thereafter, various types of information are updated in order to terminate the operation of the top prize winning device 434 (S1415). As a result, when the big hit flag is not set, the special symbol related control timer is canceled and the special symbol related state identification value is changed to “0”. When S1204 is executed and the jackpot flag is set, the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the predetermined operation start waiting time of the lower big prize winning device 433 and the special symbol related state is set. The identification value is changed to “3”, and the lower prize-winning device operation start process S1207 is executed in the next timer interruption.

(Configuration of features of the present invention)
The upper special winning device 434, which is the main feature of the present invention, the transition control to the special gaming state based on the operation thereof, and the configuration related thereto will be described in detail. As described above, the gaming machine 100 includes the gaming board 400 (see FIG. 7) and the main control board 920 (see FIG. 14).

  As described above, the gaming board 400 includes the start winning device 431 (a kind of [first starting winning device]; see FIGS. 6 and 7) and the middle start winning switch 441 ([first 1 start winning medium detection means]; see FIG. 14), an entry restriction mechanism 452 (a part of [an entry restriction changing device]; see FIGS. 6 and 7) and a right entry restriction solenoid 462 ([an entry restriction change). Starting prize device 432 (a kind of [second starting prize device]; see FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) and a right start winning switch 442 including a part of the device] (see FIG. 14). ([Second start winning medium detection means]; see FIG. 14), an entry restriction mechanism 453 (a part of [an entry restriction changing device]; see FIGS. 6 and 7) and a lower entry restriction solenoid 463 ([ Part of a kind of entry regulation change device; see Fig. 14) The lower prize-winning device 433 (a kind of [first prize-winning device]; see FIG. 6 and FIG. 7), the lower prize-winning switch 443 (see FIG. 14), and the entry restriction mechanism 454 ([the entry restriction changing device]) 6) and FIG. 6 and FIG. 7), an upper entry restriction solenoid 464 (a kind of [entry restriction changing device]: a kind of [entry restriction switching device]; see FIG. 14), and a distribution mechanism 455. (Part of [sorting change device]; see FIG. 11) and sort switching solenoid 465 (part of [sort change device], kind of [sort change device]; see FIG. 14) Including the top prize winning device 434 (a kind of [profit providing device]: a kind of [second big prize winning device]; see FIGS. 6 and 7) and a top prize winning switch 444 ([first passage entry medium detecting means]) And a non-specific passage switch 447 ([non-specific area entering medium] 10) and a specific passage switch 448 ([special area entering medium detection means]; see FIGS. 10 and 14) and a starter 436 ([start 6) and a start switch 446 (a [start medium detecting means]; see FIG. 14).

  As described above, the main control board 920 determines the first special symbol by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the middle start winning switch 441 (a kind of [first special symbol determining means]), and the right start winning prize. The second special symbol is determined by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the switch 442 (a kind of [second special symbol determination means]), and the normal symbol is determined by lottery based on the detection of the game medium by the start switch 446. (A kind of [ordinary symbol determining means]).

  Further, the main control board 920 controls the operation of the right entry restriction solenoid 462 (a kind of [start winning action control means]) when winning in the normal symbol lottery, and the second special symbol in the second special symbol lottery. Control the operation of the upper entry restricting solenoid 464 and the distribution switching solenoid 465 in the upper prize winning device 434 ([second second big] A kind of winning action control means). In addition, when winning the big jackpot in the first special symbol lottery (a kind of [first operation opportunity]), when winning in the first special symbol lottery (a kind of [second action opportunity]), the second When winning a special jackpot in the special symbol lottery (a type of [3rd operation opportunity]), when winning a short time bonus in the second special symbol lottery (a type of [fourth operation opportunity]), the normal gaming state and the short-time game When a game ball is detected by the specific passage switch 448 during a predetermined valid period in the second special symbol lottery in the state when it is won by a normal shiftable small hit (a kind of [fifth operation opportunity]) and short-time game When a game ball is detected by the specific passage switch 448 during a predetermined effective period when winning the short-time shiftable small hit in the second special symbol lottery in the state ([first (A kind of operation opportunity)), the game state is shifted to the special game state (a kind of [special game state transition means]), and the operation of the lower entry restriction solenoid 463 in the lower prize winning device 433 is controlled ([first A kind of large prize winning operation control means).

  In addition, the main control board 920 has a predetermined effective period after winning the normal big hit in the first special symbol lottery, the normal big hit in the second special symbol lottery, and the normal shiftable small lot in the second special symbol lottery. The game state is set to the normal game state based on the end of the special game state triggered by the detection of the game ball by the specific passage switch 448 in the meantime, while the winning of the time and shortage in the first special symbol lottery, the second special symbol lottery The game state based on the end of the special game state triggered by the detection of the game ball by the specific passage switch 448 in a predetermined valid period after winning the short-time shift in the second special symbol lottery in the second special symbol lottery Is set to the short-time gaming state (a kind of [specific gaming state]) (a kind of [gaming state update means]).

  Here, the structure of the upper prize winning device 434 will be described in detail. 21 and 22 are exploded perspective views of the front view and the rear view, respectively, illustrating an example of the top prize winning device. FIG. 23 is a perspective view for explaining the operation of the sorting mechanism in the upper prize winning device, and FIGS. 23A and 23B show the non-guided posture and the guided posture of the sorting mechanism, respectively. Has been.

  As shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22, the upper prize winning device 434 includes the front frame member 11 in which the entrance 11A and the see-through window 11B are formed, and the front frame member 11 so as to close the see-through window 11B from the back side. A light-transmitting rear side window closing member 12 attached to the front side, a light-transmitting front side window closing member 13 attached to the front frame member 11 so as to close the transparent window 11B from the front side, and the front side A guide member 14 provided on the front side of the window closing member 13 and guiding a game ball that has not entered the upper prize winning device 434 to the center side of the game board 400, and a guide member disposed inside the guide member 14 A reinforcing member 15 that reinforces 14, a covering member 16 that covers the front surface of the guide member 14 so as to hide the reinforcing member 15, an entrance covering member 17 that covers the front side of the entrance 11A, and an entry restriction mechanism 454. Soleno, the top entry control that drives 464, a part of the entry restriction mechanism 454, an entry restriction member 20 that restricts the entry of the game ball into the entrance 11A, a part of the entry restriction mechanism 454, and the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 A power transmission member 30 that transmits the power of the vehicle to the entry restricting member 20, and a main approach passage 40A (a kind of [first passage]) that is disposed in the back of the entrance 11A and guides the game ball that has passed through the entrance 11A to the back. And a part of the main approach passage 40A that joins the main approach passage 40A and a penetrating passage member 40B that is disposed in the back of the entrance passage member 40 and guides the game ball that has passed through the main approach passage 40A downward. A hanging passage member 50 that forms a passage 50A (a part of [first passage]) and a game ball that is disposed in the back of the see-through window 11B and below the hanging passage member 50 and passes through the hanging passage 50A. left 60A (a part of a kind of [first passage]) that is gently inclined and a guide passage 60B (a kind of [first passage]) that guides a game ball that has passed through the inclination passage 60A downward. Part), a non-specific passage 60C (a kind of [non-specific area]) that guides the game ball that has passed through the guide passage 60B further downward, a branch passage 60D ([first part] that branches from the middle of the guide passage 60B and extends to the lower left. Distribution path member 60 that forms a specific path 60E (a type of [specific area]) that guides the game balls that have passed through the branch path 60D downward, and a distribution mechanism that drives the distribution mechanism 455. The switching solenoid 465 and a part of the distribution mechanism 455 are configured to guide the game ball that has entered the guide passage 60B to the branch passage 60D and guide it to the specific passage 60E or branch the game ball that has entered the guide passage 60B. Invite to 60D The distribution member 70 (a kind of [guidance member]) that switches whether to guide the specific passage 60C without passing through it, and a part of the distribution mechanism 455, and the power from the distribution switching solenoid 465 Is attached to the rear surface of the rear covering body 90 so as to accommodate the distribution passage member 60, the rear covering body 90 covering the rear surface side so as to accommodate the distributing passage member 60, and the upper entry restriction. And a relay board 98 that relays power supply to the solenoid 464 and the distribution switching solenoid 465. The upper prize winning switch 444 is provided across the entry passage member 40 and the hanging passage member 50, and the game ball traveling in the hanging passage 50A on the upstream side of the traveling path of the game ball from the non-specific passage 60C and the specific passage 60E. The non-specific passage switch 447 detects a game ball that is provided in the distribution passage member 60 and travels through the non-specific passage 60C, and the specific passage switch 448 is provided in the distribution passage member 60 and travels through the specific passage 60E. A game ball to be detected is detected.

  The upper prize winning device 434 includes an open / close sensor 494 for monitoring the operation of the entry restriction mechanism 454 and the upper entry restriction solenoid 464, and a distribution sensor for monitoring the operation of the distribution mechanism 455 and the distribution switching solenoid 465. 495 is provided. Further, a relay board 99 for relaying signals from the upper prize winning switch 444, the non-specific path switch 447 and the specific path switch 448 is provided on the back surface of the back cover 90 in the upper prize winning device 434. The relay board 98 is also provided with a vibration sensor 492 that detects vibration.

  The upper entry restriction solenoid 464 is sandwiched between the entry passage member 40 and the hanging passage member 50, and includes a fixed cylinder (not shown), a movable core 464B slidably inserted into the fixed cylinder, and a peripheral edge of the fixed cylinder. And a biasing body for biasing in a direction opposite to the direction in which the movable core is inserted into the fixed cylinder (hereinafter also referred to as “insertion direction”) (hereinafter also referred to as “anti-insertion direction”). And a pull type solenoid in which the movable core 464B moves in the insertion direction against the urging force from the urging body by the excitation of the solenoid coil 464C. The entry restricting member 20 constituting the entry restricting mechanism 454 protrudes in the left-right direction from the base 21 that closes the entrance 11A in the approach prohibition posture or captures the game ball in the approach allowance posture, and from the left and right ends of the base 21. The pair of pivot shafts 22A and 22B that are pivotally supported by the front frame member 11 and a pressed projection 23 that projects downward from the left end of the base 21 are included. Further, the power transmission member 30 constituting the entry restriction mechanism 454 projects in the front-rear direction from the base 31 and both front and rear ends of the base 31, and is a pair of rotating shafts that are pivotally supported by the entry passage member 40 and the hanging passage member 50. 32A, 32B, a projection that projects forward of the base 21, and a tip that is connected to a pressing projection 33 that is disposed immediately below the pressed projection 23 of the entry restriction member 20, and a movable core 464B that is connected to the upper entry restriction solenoid 464. Part 34. When the solenoid coil 464C is in a non-excited state, the pressing protrusion 33 is not in contact with the pressed protrusion 23, and takes an entry prohibition posture in which the entrance 11A is closed as the entry restriction member 20 rotates due to its own weight. The movable core 464B moves in the insertion direction in response to the excitation of the solenoid coil 464C, the power transmission member 30 rotates with the movement of the movable core 464B in the insertion direction, and the pressed protrusion as the power transmission member 30 rotates. 23 is pressed by the pressing protrusion 33, and the entry restricting member 20 rotates. As a result, the entry restricting member 20 takes an approach permitting posture for opening the entrance 11A in a non-excited state of the solenoid coil 464C.

  The distribution switching solenoid 465 is sandwiched between the distribution passage member 60 and the back cover 90, and includes a fixed cylinder (not shown), a movable core 465B slidably inserted into the fixed cylinder, and a fixed cylinder. A solenoid coil 465C disposed on the periphery and a biasing body that biases in a direction (hereinafter also referred to as “anti-insertion direction”) opposite to a direction in which the movable core is inserted into the fixed cylinder (hereinafter also referred to as “insertion direction”). And a pull-type solenoid in which the movable core 465B moves in the insertion direction against the urging force from the urging body by excitation of the solenoid coil 465C. The distribution member 70 constituting the distribution mechanism 455 does not substantially change the flow of the game ball in the non-guided posture, and guides the game ball flowing down the guide passage 60B to the branch passage 60D in the guide posture. 71, a pivot shaft 72 projecting rearward from the guide portion 71 and pivotally supported by a bearing hole 62 formed in the distribution passage member 60, and projecting rearward from the guide portion 71 to the distribution passage member 60. And a pressed protrusion 73 penetrating through the opening 63 formed in the. Further, the power transmission member 80 constituting the distribution mechanism 455 includes a connecting portion 84 connected to the pressing portion 83 engaged with the pressed protrusion 73 of the distributing member 70 and the movable core 465B of the distribution regulating solenoid 465. Including.

  In the non-excited state of the solenoid coil 465C, as shown in FIG. 23A, the anti-insertion-direction side wall 83A of the pressing portion 83 is in contact with the pressed protrusion 73, and the guiding portion 71 of the distribution member 70 Is arranged outside the guide passage 60B so as to constitute a part of the side wall of the guide passage 60B (see FIG. 11A), and does not substantially change the flow of the game ball in the guide passage 60B. Take a posture. The movable core 465B moves in the insertion direction against the biasing force from the biasing body in response to the excitation of the solenoid coil 465C, and the power transmission member 80 moves in the insertion direction as the movable core 465B moves in the insertion direction. Then, as the power transmission member 80 moves in the insertion direction, the anti-insertion direction side wall 83B of the pressing portion 83 is pressed by the pressed protrusion 73, and the sorting member 70 rotates. As a result, in the excited state of the solenoid coil 465C, as shown in FIG. 23B, the guiding portion 71 of the sorting member 70 moves toward the non-specific passage 60C side of the game ball at the intermediate portion of the guiding passage 60B. Arranged so as to block the flow down (see FIG. 11B), the game ball flowing down the guide passage 60B collides with the guide portion 71 and takes a guide posture to guide it to the branch passage 60D. Conversely, the movable core 465B moves in the anti-insertion direction based on the biasing force from the biasing body in response to demagnetization of the solenoid coil 465C, and the power transmission member 80 moves along with the movement of the movable core 465B in the counter-insertion direction. As the power transmission member 80 moves in the anti-insertion direction, the anti-insertion direction side wall 83 </ b> A of the pressing portion 83 is pressed by the pressed protrusion 73 and the distribution member 70 rotates. As a result, the guide portion 71 of the sorting member 70 returns to the non-guide posture.

  The non-specific path switch 447 and the specific path switch 448 have substantially the same path length of the game ball from the top prize winning switch 444, and the game ball detected by the top prize winning switch 444 is substantially detected from the detection. It arrange | positions so that it can detect after the same time.

  Here, the advancing operation of the game ball in the upper prize winning device 434 will be described in detail. Each of FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the proceeding operation of the game ball in the top prize winning device 434, and is detected by the top prize winning switch 444 in FIG. 24 (A) and FIG. 25 (A). FIG. 24 (B) and FIG. 25 (B) show the progress of the game ball until it is detected, and FIG. 24 (B) shows the game ball until it is detected by the non-specific path switch 447. FIG. 24 (C) and FIG. 25 (C) show the progress of the game ball from detection by the top prize winning switch 444 to detection by the specific path switch 448. 25 (A), FIG. 25 (B), and FIG. 25 (C) are cross sections taken along the line AA ′ in FIG. 24 (A), the cross section taken along the line BB ′ in FIG. The CC 'arrow cross section in FIG.24 (C) is shown.

  As shown in FIGS. 24 (A) and 25 (A), the game ball captured by the entry restriction member 20 of the entry restriction mechanism 454 is guided forward of the main entry passage 40A, and the main entry passage 40A. Enter. In the case where the entry restriction mechanism 454 is in the entry allowable posture, the bottom surface of the entry restriction member 20 is inclined toward the front side of the main entry passage 40A, and other than the front of the main entry passage 40A, that is, the auxiliary entry passage 40B. In front of (see FIG. 21), the distance between the bottom surface of the entry restricting member 20 and the upper wall of the front frame member 11 forming the entrance 11A is equal to or less than the diameter of the game ball. However, when the entry restriction mechanism 454 shifts from the entry restriction posture to the entry prohibition posture, the game ball can also enter the sub-entry passage 40B according to the rotation of the entry restriction member 20, and the entry restriction mechanism 454 moves accordingly. Can be completed quickly.

  The guidance direction by the entry restriction member 20 and the entry direction to the main entry passage 40A are substantially orthogonal, and the game ball captured by the entry restriction member 20 when the entry restriction mechanism 454 is in the entry allowable posture is captured. The main approach passage 40A is entered at a substantially constant speed and a substantially constant direction without substantially depending on the speed and direction. In addition, the width of the main approach passage 40A is adjusted to a width that allows one game ball to pass through, and the game balls proceed while being separated one by one. As can be seen from the arrangement of the start winning device 432 and the arrangement of the nails provided above the large winning device 435, it is substantially that the game ball is captured at a portion of the entry restricting member 20 in front of the main entry passage 40A. Not.

  The bottom surface of the main approach passage 40A is gently inclined downward toward the back side, and the game balls that have entered the main approach passage 40A are guided above the drooping passage 50A provided at the back of the main entry passage 40A. And enters the hanging passage 50A. The guiding direction by the main approach passage 40A and the approach direction to the hanging passage 50A are substantially orthogonal, the speed of traveling through the main approach passage 40A is reduced, and the speed difference for each game ball is reduced, so that the hanging passage 50A is changed. You will enter. It should be noted that the game ball follows a bent path when traveling from the main approach passage 40A to the hanging passage 50A, but because the guide balls are guided one by one apart, the collision between the preceding ball and the following ball, etc. There is substantially no interference between the game balls.

  The game ball that has entered the hanging passage 50A is guided above the inclined passage 60A provided below the hanging passage 50A and enters the inclined passage 60A. Note that the game ball that has entered the drooping passage 50A is detected by the top prize winning switch 444 in the course of traveling through the drooping passage 50A. The guiding direction by the hanging passage 50A and the approaching direction to the inclined passage 60A are substantially orthogonal, and the speed of traveling through the hanging passage 50A is reduced and the speed difference for each game ball is further reduced to enter the hanging passage 50A. Will be. It should be noted that the game ball generally follows a curved path when proceeding from the hanging passage 50A to the inclined passage 60A, but since the guide is guided one by one at a time, interference of the game ball does not substantially occur. .

  The bottom surface of the inclined passage 60A is gently inclined downward on the left side, and the game balls that have entered the inclined passage 60A are shown in FIGS. 24 (B), 25 (B), 24 (C), and 25 ( As shown in C), the vehicle is guided by the guide passage 60B provided on the left side of the inclined passage 60A and enters the guide passage 60B. The guiding direction by the hanging passage 50A and the approaching direction to the inclined passage 60A are substantially perpendicular to each other, but the game ball smoothly enters the hanging passage 50A along the curved path when traveling from the inclined passage 60A to the guiding passage 60B. Will be. It should be noted that the interference of the game ball is not substantially generated when traveling from the inclined path 60A to the guide path 60B.

  When the distribution mechanism 455 is in the non-guided posture, the game ball that has entered the guide passage 60B is guided to the guiding portion 71 of the sorting member 70 as shown in FIGS. 24 (B) and 25 (B). Is arranged outside the guide passage 60B so as to constitute a part of the side wall of the guide passage 60B, and thus is guided straight through the guide passage 60B to the non-specific passage 60C. On the other hand, when the distribution mechanism 455 is in the guiding posture, the game ball that has entered the guiding path 60B is in a straight traveling process of the guiding path 60B as shown in FIGS. 24 (C) and 25 (C). It collides with the guiding portion 71 of the distribution switching member 70 and is guided to the branch path 60D, and is guided to the specific path 60E via the branch path 60D. When the distribution mechanism 455 is in the non-guided posture, the game ball entry path to the branch path 60D is not blocked, but due to the configuration of the guide path 60B, the game ball does not enter the branch path 60D. . Further, in the transition from the guidance posture of the distribution mechanism 455 to the non-guidance posture, a phenomenon that the game ball is sandwiched and held by the guidance portion 71 and the side wall of the guidance passage 60B or the branch passage 60D does not occur, In the non-guided posture of the distribution mechanism 455, the game ball does not stay inside the upper prize winning device 434.

  If the game ball collides with the guiding portion 71 after the distribution mechanism 455 completes the transition from the non-guided posture to the guided posture and before the transition to the non-guided posture, the game is caused by the collision. The course of the sphere is changed to the branch passage 60D side. In addition, since the distribution switching solenoid 465 that operates the guide unit 71 is a pull-type solenoid, in the collision between the game ball and the guide unit 71, the game ball is counteracted by the movement of the guide unit 71 returning to a slight non-guided posture. The jump is suppressed and is smoothly guided to the branch passage 60D.

  If the game ball collides with the guide unit 71 after the distribution mechanism 455 starts the transition from the guided posture to the non-guided posture and before the transition to the non-guided posture is completed, the guide unit 71 is Since the distribution switching solenoid 465 to be actuated is a pull-type solenoid, a force that suppresses the force that promotes the movement of returning the guide portion 71 to the non-guide posture does not work. 71 is pushed away and it goes straight.

  When the game ball collides with the guiding unit 71 after the distribution mechanism 455 starts the transition from the non-guided posture to the guided posture and before the transition to the guided posture is completed, the transition to the guided posture is completed. The game ball may be guided to the branch passage 60D with a rebound of the game ball larger than the case, and the time for passing through the branch passage 60D and the specific passage 60E due to the vibration of the game ball in the branch passage 60D or the specific passage 60E. May be longer than when the transition to the guiding posture is completed. However, since the distribution switching solenoid 465 that operates the guide unit 71 is a pull-type solenoid, the game ball recoils due to the movement of the guide unit 71 returning to a slight non-guided posture in the collision between the game ball and the guide unit 71. Therefore, the occurrence of such a phenomenon can be suppressed as compared with the case of driving by a motor or the like.

  Here, the operation of the top prize winning device 434 and the setting method of the effective period for the specific passage switch 448 when winning a small win in the second special lottery will be described. Each of FIG. 26 to FIG. 28 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of the top prize winning device. FIG. 26 shows a case where the game ball does not enter the upper prize device 434, FIG. 27 shows a case where the game ball entered the upper prize device 434 is guided to the non-specific passage, and FIG. Shows a case where a game ball that has entered the upper prize winning device 434 is guided to a specific passage. In the following, FIGS. 18 to 20 are also referred to.

  First, as shown in FIG. 26, a case where the game ball does not enter the upper prize device 434 will be described. The special symbol related state identification value is changed from “2” to “3” in accordance with the end of the final display of the second special symbol at time t1, and the special symbol related control timer is set to the effective time Ta for the top prize winning switch 444. The corresponding value is set, and the operation flag of the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 is set (special symbol variation start processing S1206: see FIG. 17). As a result, in the next timer interrupt process, the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 shifts from the non-excitation state to the excitation state (control signal output process S1108: see FIG. 16), and as a result, the entry restriction mechanism 454 is allowed to enter from the entry prohibition posture. Start transition to posture. Note that the special symbol related control timer is decremented by “1” for each timer interrupt (timer update processing S1110: see FIG. 16).

  At time t2 when the guidance start waiting time TB elapses from time t1 and the special symbol related control timer becomes the guidance start value corresponding to time Tb (S1318: Y), the operation flag of the distribution switching solenoid 465 is set ( The specific passage valid flag is set together with S1319) (S1320). As a result, the distribution switching solenoid 465 shifts from the non-excited state to the excited state in the next timer interrupt processing (control signal output processing S1108), and as a result, the distribution mechanism 454 shifts from the non-guided posture to the guided posture. The valid period TE ′ for the specific path switch 448 is started by setting the specific path valid flag.

  At time t3 when the maximum induction time TC elapses from time t2 and the special symbol related control timer reaches the induction end value corresponding to time Tc (S1321: Y), the operation flag of the distribution switching solenoid 465 is released ( S1322). As a result, in the next timer interrupt process, the distribution switching solenoid 465 shifts from the excited state to the non-excited state (control signal output process S1108), and as a result, the distribution mechanism 455 shifts from the guidance posture to the non-guidance posture. Start.

  At time t4 when the maximum allowable entry time TD elapses from time t1 and the special symbol related control timer becomes the solenoid operation end value corresponding to the detection allowable extension time Td of the upper prize winning switch 444 (S1323: Y), the upper entry restriction The operation flag of the solenoid 464 is released (S1324), and the solenoid operation end flag is set (S1326). As a result, in the next timer interrupt process, the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 shifts from the excited state to the non-excited state (control signal output process S1108), and as a result, the entry restriction mechanism 454 shifts from the allowed entry position to the prohibited entry position. To start. In addition, by setting the solenoid operation end flag, various processes for operating and stopping the upper entry restriction solenoid 464 and the distribution switching solenoid 465 in the next and subsequent timer interrupt processes (S1318 to S1326). Will no longer be executed. Further, at time t4, the detection allowable extension time TE of the specific path switch 448 elapses from time t3, and the specific path valid flag is canceled (S1325). As a result, the effective period TE ′ for the specific path switch 448 ends.

  After the time t4, the special symbol related state identification value is “7” at the time t5 when the detection allowable extension time Td further elapses and the special symbol related control timer is cleared to “0” (S1316: Y). Is changed to "8" (S1327), and the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the maximum discharge waiting time. Further, after time t5, the process waits until the value of the discharge counter becomes equal to or greater than the value of the top prize winning counter (S1406 to S1410). In the case shown in FIG. 26, the timer interrupt immediately after time t5 is reached. In order to satisfy this condition in the processing (S1410: Y), the special symbol related state identification value is changed from “8” to “0” at the time t6 and the special symbol related control timer is canceled (S1413). As a result, the unit game control related to the next special symbol is entered.

  As shown in FIG. 26, when a game ball does not enter the top prize winning device 434, the detection flag of the top prize winning switch 444 is not set (S1308: Y), and accordingly. The detection flag of the non-specific passage switch 447 is not set (S1301: Y), and similarly, the detection flag of the specific passage switch 448 is not set (S1303: Y). Therefore, the big prize counter and the discharge counter do not change (S1302, S1304 and S1311 skip), and the big hit flag is not set (S1307 skip). Further, the entry is not forcibly shifted from the entry-permitted state to the entry-prohibited state based on the upper limit of the number of game balls that can enter the upper prize winning device 434 (S1314 to S1315 are skipped).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 27, only a different part from the case shown in FIG. 26 will be described in detail when the game ball that has entered the upper prize device 434 is guided to the non-specific passage 60C. . When the detection flag of the big prize switch 444 is set at time t7 prior to time t2 (S1308: N), the top big prize counter is incremented by “1” (S1309), and the non-specific path switch 447 is obtained at time t8. Is set (S1301: N), the discharge counter is incremented by “1” (S1302). When the game ball is guided to the non-specific passage 60C, the valid period TE 'for the specific passage switch 448 is the same as that in FIG. 26, and does not depend on the detection timing of the game ball by the big winning switch 444. Further, as shown in FIG. 27, even if the detection flag of the non-specific path switch 448 is set in the effective period TE ′ for the specific path switch 448, the big hit flag is not set (S1307 skip). 27, even if the detection flag of the big prize switch 444 is set at the time t7 ′ after the time t2 and the detection flag of the non-specific path switch 447 is set at the time t8 ′, as shown by the broken line in FIG. The valid flag is not set.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 28, only the parts different from the case shown in FIG. 26 will be described in detail when the game ball that has entered the upper prize winning device 434 is guided to the specific passage 60E. When the detection flag of the big prize switch 444 is set at time t17 prior to time t2 (S1308: N), the top prize winning counter is incremented by “1” (S1309), and at time t18, the specific path switch 448 When the detection flag is set (S1303: N), the discharge counter is incremented by “1” (S1304). Further, when the big prize counter is set and the specific passage valid flag is set (S1305: N; S1306: Y), the specific passage valid flag is canceled and the big hit flag is set. As a result, the effective period TE "for the specific path switch 448 ends without waiting for the elapse of the maximum effective time TE, unlike the case shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 (broken line in FIG. 28).

  After the time t4, the special symbol related state identification value is “7” at the time t5 when the detection allowable extension time Td further elapses and the special symbol related control timer is cleared to “0” (S1316: Y). Is changed to "8" (S1327), and the special symbol related control timer is set to a value corresponding to the maximum discharge waiting time. Further, after time t5, the special symbol related state identification value is changed from “8” to “3” at the time t6 when the timer interrupt processing immediately after time t5 is executed, and the special symbol related control timer is on standby to start operation. The value corresponding to the time (opening time) is set, and the top prize winning counter, the discharging counter, and the big hit flag are canceled (S1414). As a result, the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state.

  In the case of the gaming machine 100, the guiding portion 71 of the sorting member 70 constituting the sorting mechanism 455 opens the branch passage 60D in both the non-guided posture and the guided posture, and the guide posture is changed to the non-guided posture. Even if the game ball collides with the guiding portion 71 during the return process, the force for directing the game ball toward the branch passage 60D does not become larger than that in the guiding posture. As a result, even when the game ball enters the branch passage 60D, the distribution mechanism smoothly passes through the branch passage 60D and proceeds to the specific passage 60E in the same manner as when the distribution mechanism is in the guidance posture. The time width required from the start of returning to the posture until the game ball is detected by the specific path switch 448 is smaller than in the conventional configuration in which the branch path 60D is closed. Therefore, the time that must be ensured after the start of the transition of the guiding portion 71 to the non-guided posture can be set short, the effective time for the specific passage switch 448 can be set short as a whole, and illegal acts against the top prize winning device 434 can be prevented. Transition to the forced special gaming state based on is suppressed.

  Further, in the case of the gaming machine 100, when the guiding portion 71 is in the non-guidance posture, even if the branch path 60D is opened, the branch path 60D is guided through the non-specific path 60C to guide the game ball. Since it is branched from the middle, it is difficult to perform an illegal act such as forcibly guiding the game ball to the specific passage 60E. Furthermore, the game ball that has entered the upper prize-winning device 434 includes a configuration in which the progress of the game ball is stopped halfway in order to proceed to the non-specific path 60C or the specific path 60E without stopping. Compared to the case where it can be determined whether or not the vehicle is guided to the passage, the game preference is improved.

  In the case of the gaming machine 100, the distribution switching solenoid 465 is a pull-type solenoid, and the induction unit 71 takes a non-induction posture and a guidance posture in the demagnetization state and the excitation state of the distribution switching solenoid 465, respectively. When the game ball collides with the guide part 71 on the way to return from the posture to the non-guided posture, the game ball is prevented from entering the branch passage 60D. This is because even if the force for forcibly returning to the non-guided posture due to the collision between the game ball and the guiding portion 71 is given to the sorting mechanism 455, the sorting switching solenoid 465 is already demagnetized. This is because the drag from the distribution switching solenoid 465 against the force is not substantially generated, and as a result, the game ball pushes the guiding portion 71 and advances through the guiding path 60B. Unlike the gaming machine 100, in the configuration using a motor or the like instead of the distribution switching solenoid 465, if a force for forcibly returning to the non-inductive posture is applied to the distribution mechanism, the force from the motor A strong drag force is generated, and the game ball may enter the branch passage 60D due to a recoil based on the drag force. Further, even if the game ball and the guiding unit 71 collide after the transition of the distribution mechanism 455 to the guidance posture is completed or in the process of transition of the distribution mechanism 455 from the non-guidance posture to the guidance posture, Since the rebound of the game ball is eased by the minute switching solenoid 465 and sent out to the branch passage 60D, the game ball smoothly passes through the branch passage 60D and proceeds to the specific passage 60E. This is because, unlike the gaming machine 100, in the configuration using a motor or the like instead of the distribution switching solenoid 465, when a force that promotes the transition to the non-guided posture is given to the distribution mechanism, This is because a strong drag force is generated from the motor, but in the case of a pull type solenoid, the drag force increases according to the forced change amount of the distribution mechanism. Therefore, the effective time for the specific passage switch 448 can be set short.

  Further, in the case of the gaming machine 100, the speed at the time of collision with the guiding portion 71 is reduced because the difference between the speed and speed of each game ball immediately before the boundary portion between the main approach passage 40A and the hanging passage 50A is reduced. Is made slow and uniform. As a result, the traveling path when the game ball is guided to the branch path 60D is made constant, and the time width from when the game ball collides with the guide unit 71 until it is detected by the specific path switch 448 is reduced. Therefore, the effective time for the specific passage switch 448 can be set short. In addition, since the speed and speed difference of each game ball is reduced at the boundary portion between the hanging passage 50A and the inclined passage 60A and at each boundary portion between the inclined passage 60A and the guide passage 60B, Is further moderately slowed and made uniform. The bending direction at the boundary portion between the main approach passage 40A and the hanging passage 50A, the bending direction at the boundary portion between the hanging passage 50A and the inclined passage 60A, and the bending direction at the boundary portion between the inclined passage 60A and the guide passage 60B are as follows. Since they are different from each other, the difference between a plurality of directional components of the speed of each game ball is reduced, and the speed when colliding with the guiding portion 71 is further uniformized. In addition, since the direction in which the game ball is guided by the base 21 of the entry restricting member 20 and the direction of entry into the main approach passage 40A are substantially perpendicular to each other, the speed and speed difference for each game ball is reduced even at the boundary portion. Thus, the speed when colliding with the guiding portion 71 is reduced and made uniform. Furthermore, even if a plurality of game balls are captured by the base 21 of the entry restricting member 20 at substantially the same time, the game balls enter the main entry passage 40A one by one up to the non-specific passage 60C or the specific passage 60E and are separated. As a result, the interference with the preceding game ball and the subsequent game ball is suppressed. Thereby, the speed at the time of colliding with the guide part 71 is made extremely uniform.

  In the case of the gaming machine 100, since the guiding portion 71 and the specific passage switch 448 are separated from the entrance 11A with a bent portion, the distribution mechanism is illegally operated, or the specific passage switch 448 is turned on. It becomes difficult to perform fraudulent acts that cause unauthorized detection. The bending direction at the boundary portion between the entrance passage 40A and the hanging passage 50A, the bending direction at the boundary portion between the hanging passage 50A and the inclined passage 60A, and the bending direction at the boundary portion between the inclined passage 60A and the guide passage 60B are as follows. Since they are different from each other, it becomes more difficult to perform an illegal act of illegally sensing the specific path switch 448.

  The present invention is suitable for a gaming machine such as a ball game machine.

20: entry restriction member 21: base 40A: main entry passage 50A: hanging passage 60A: inclined passage 60B: guide passage 60C: non-specific passage 60D: branch passage 60E: specific passage 70: sorting member 71: guide portion 100: game Machine 434: Upper prize winning device 444: Upper prize winning switch 447: Non-specific passage switch 448: Specific passage switch 454: Entrance restriction mechanism 455: Distribution mechanism 464: Upper entry restriction solenoid 465: Distribution switching solenoid

Claims (1)

A profit providing device including a distribution change device that selectively distributes game media to one of the non-specific region and the specific region;
Specific area entering medium detecting means for detecting game media distributed to the specific area;
A distribution change control means for controlling the operation of the distribution change device;
Special gaming state transition means for transitioning the gaming state to a special gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal gaming state with respect to acquisition of the gaming medium, based on detection of the gaming medium by the specific area entering medium detecting means during a predetermined effective period;
A gaming machine including
A first path for guiding game media to the non-specific area and a second path for branching from the middle of the first path to guide game media to the specific area are formed in the profit providing device. And
The distribution changing device disengages the game medium that has entered the first passage from the middle of the first passage and the non-guided posture for guiding the game medium that has entered the first passage to the non-specific area. A distribution mechanism that takes a guidance posture to guide the two passages, and a distribution switching device that switches the posture of the distribution mechanism,
The distribution change control means controls the drive of the distribution change device to shift the distribution mechanism from the non-guided posture to the guided posture, and then a predetermined guidance time from the start of the transition to the guided posture Based on the progress of, return to the non-guided posture,
The predetermined effective period in the special gaming state transition means is started based on the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the guidance posture, and is a predetermined extended time from the start of transition of the distribution mechanism to the non-guide posture. It is a period that ends based on progress,
The distribution mechanism opens the second passage in both a non-guided posture and a guided posture;
A gaming machine characterized by that.

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