JP2012029837A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of suppressing the decrease of interest in the game machine in which a lottery of an accessary is performed in a visible form through a predetermined process.SOLUTION: A rotating type sorting device 294 for performing the lottery of the accessary in such a form that the lottery process can be visually confirmed using a game ball approaching from an upper large prize-winning opening 141 is provided to perform a large winning game based on having won the lottery of the accessary. In a normal game, a predetermined result can be obtained in a point lottery, and a specified result is obtained in an approaching lottery, and furthermore, even when based on obtaining the predetermined result, a game ball approaches from the opened upper large prize-winning opening 141, the lottery of the accessary is performed so as to win a prize only by a specified probability. In an appearance expecting game, even though prize-winning is only obtained by the substantially same probability as the predetermined expected value, it is possible to give a feeling of expectation as if the degree of advantage might be higher than the normal game.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine (generally also referred to as a “pachinko machine”).

  Conventionally, when a game ball is received at the first entrance, a first lottery process is performed. If the result of the first lottery process is a predetermined result, the game ball can be received at the second entrance. There is a gaming machine that becomes. When a game ball is received at the second entrance, a second lottery process is performed, and when the result of the second lottery process is a specific result, a predetermined entrance is opened and a lottery drawing is performed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  The gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 is different from a gaming machine in which a winning is determined based on an internal lottery result performed with a prize at the start opening, and the winning lottery is visually recognized by the player. Since the lottery process is interesting, the lottery process up to the big hit is interesting, but since there is no opportunity for a lottery without passing through the predetermined process, there is a tendency to feel the way to the big hit. Therefore, there is a gaming machine in which an opportunity for lottery drawing is easily obtained within a predetermined period, for example, after the big hit game is finished.

JP 2008-148895 A

  However, in a gaming machine in which the lottery drawing is performed in a way that the player can see the lottery process, it may be detected that the game ball will be lost when the game ball enters the feature. Yes, even if there is a period in which the opportunity for lottery drawing is easy to obtain, there is a risk that the interest will decline.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to suppress a decrease in interest in a gaming machine in which an object drawing is performed in a form that is visible through a predetermined process.

  In order to achieve such an object, the invention described in claim 1 is related to allowing a game ball to enter a predetermined entrance when a predetermined result is obtained in a first lottery performed when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Based on the fact that an entry lottery is performed and a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery, by opening the predetermined entrance that is always closed, the game ball to the predetermined entrance is released. An entry admission control means for allowing entry, and an object lottery means for performing the object lottery in such a manner that the lottery process can be visually recognized in performing the object lottery using the game ball entered from the predetermined entrance; A jackpot game executing means for executing a jackpot game based on winning the prize lottery, and a game ball from the predetermined entrance opened based on the specific result obtained in the entry lottery Even if the A normal game executing means for executing a normal game in which the character lottery is performed so as to win only with a certain probability, and the bonus so that a winning can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game. Appearance expectation game execution means capable of executing the appearance expectation game in which the accessory lottery is performed as if it is won with a probability higher than the predetermined probability in spite of the fact that the lottery is performed In the prize lottery performed in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, the appearance expectation game can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game, but more than the normal game. The gist is to give a sense of expectation as if the degree of advantage is high.

  As mentioned above, in gaming machines where a lottery drawing that allows visual recognition of the lottery process is performed, unlike the gaming machines in which internal lottery processing is performed by software control, the process up to the big hit is interesting. You can have it. However, since there is no chance of winning a lottery without going through the predetermined process, there is a tendency to feel the distance to the big hit, so there is a game during the execution of a normal game that is won only with a predetermined probability May become monotonous and interest may decline.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine, the appearance expectation game can be executed so that the player can enjoy the prize drawing with a sense of expectation when the prize drawing is performed. In this appearance-expected game, although a lottery is performed so that winning is performed with the same predetermined probability and substantially the same probability as a normal game, the game has a sense of expectation as if the degree of advantage is higher than that of the normal game. It is a game that can be given to a person.

  In this way, while the lottery is performed in such a way that the lottery process can be visually confirmed, the winning lottery is actually won even though the lottery that only wins with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability is performed. By giving the player a sense of expectation as if easy, it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest and, in turn, a decrease in gaming motivation.

  In addition, it is possible to always execute the appearance expectation game instead of the normal game, but in such a case, it seems that it will be easy to win the lottery, and the actual probability is substantially the same as the predetermined probability. There is a possibility that the player may be aware that a game that is won only in the game is always being executed. Therefore, it is preferable not to always execute the appearance expectation game but to execute the normal game and the appearance expectation game in a mixed manner.

  According to the present invention, there is a gaming machine in which an object lottery is performed in a form that is visible through a predetermined process, and a decrease in interest can be suppressed.

It is a perspective view which shows the state by which the main body frame was opened by the one side of the outer frame of a pachinko machine, and the front frame was opened by the one side of the main body frame. It is a front view which shows the whole front side of a pachinko machine. It is an enlarged front view which shows a game area | region. It is a perspective view which isolate | separates the main body frame and game board of a pachinko machine, and shows from diagonally upper right front. It is a rear view which shows the whole rear side of a pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which shows the whole rear side of a pachinko machine from upper right back. It is a perspective view which shows the state which removed the back cover, various control boards, etc. from the perspective view of the pachinko machine shown in FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the state by which various members were assembled | attached to the main body frame of the pachinko machine from diagonally upper right back. It is a perspective view which shows a main-body frame simple substance from diagonally upper right back. It is a perspective view which shows the game board with which various control board boxes were mounted | worn from lower right back. It is a perspective view which shows a game area | region from the upper right front. It is a front view which shows a display apparatus frame. It is a perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated the front unit and the rear unit of the display apparatus frame from the upper right front. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure in a front unit from the upper right front. It is a perspective view which shows a front unit from the upper left front. It is a perspective view which shows a front unit from upper right back. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure in a rear unit from the upper right front. It is explanatory drawing which shows the opening / closing mechanism of a movable piece. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure of the opening-and-closing member drive mechanism from upper left back. It is a top view which shows a composite rolling distribution apparatus. It is sectional drawing in AA of a composite rolling distribution apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of an understage electrical decoration. It is a perspective view which shows a rotary distribution apparatus from the upper left front. It is a front view which shows a rotary distribution device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which removed the rotary body and the carrying-in piece from the rotary distribution device. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure of the rotary distribution device from the upper left front. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure of the rotary distribution apparatus from upper left back. It is explanatory drawing which shows the internal structure of a rotary distribution device. It is a front view which shows a special starting port unit. It is a perspective view which shows a special starting port unit from the upper right front. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state which isolate | separated each structure of the special starting port unit from upper left back. It is the cutting | disconnection perspective view which cut | disconnected the special starting port unit to the vertical direction. It is a front view which shows a winning opening unit. It is a perspective view which shows a winning opening unit from the upper right front. It is sectional drawing which shows the BB cross section in FIG. The electrical configuration of the pachinko machine is shown as a block diagram. It is a functional block diagram which shows roughly the functional structure of a main board | substrate and a peripheral board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main control side power-on process. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a continuation of main-control-side power-on processing in FIG. 38. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main control side timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prize ball command and a self-check command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an ACK signal input determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a 1st game process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a 1st start detection process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol lottery / change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol lottery fluctuation display pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a usual figure change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a common object operation | movement process per common figure. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a 2nd game process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a 2nd start detection process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol lottery / change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol lottery fluctuation display pattern setting process. It is a list which shows an example of the fluctuation | variation display pattern selected in a special figure fluctuation | variation display pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special figure change process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a small winning combination act | operation process. It is a time chart which shows the operation principle of the detection timer of a winning opening sensor, a solenoid, and a rotary sorter which detects that a special ball, a big winning opening, and a game ball won a big winning opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit opening process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special electric utility big hit control process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process at the time of power-on of the payout control side. 60 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the payout control side power-on processing of FIG. 59. FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the payout control side power-on process following FIG. 60. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the payout control side timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the prize ball stock number addition process for prize balls. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the number-of-use prize ball stock number addition process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a stock monitoring process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a payout ball removal determination setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a payout setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a ball removal setting process. It is a prize ball number information table which shows an example of the command regarding payout. 3 is a table showing an example of a status command. It is a table which shows an example of the shaping state command which shaped the state command. The contents of the control processing in the sub-integrated substrate and the control processing in the liquid crystal control substrate are shown. It is a figure for demonstrating the display area displayed on an effect display apparatus. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation which urges aiming at a game ball toward a special symbol starting port. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation which urges aiming at a game ball toward a big winning opening. It is an interval pattern table referred when an interval pattern is determined.

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a “pachinko machine”) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[Overall configuration of pachinko machine]
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a main body frame is opened on one side of an outer frame of a pachinko machine and a front frame is opened on one side of the main body frame. Note that FIG. 1 shows a view in which the decorative member in the game area is omitted.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a main body frame 3, a front frame 4, a game board 5, and the like. The outer frame 2 is formed into a vertically-rectangular frame shape using upper, lower, left, and right wooden frame members. On one side of the front surface of the outer frame 2, the main body frame 3 is attached by a hinge mechanism 7 so as to be opened and closed forward. The outer frame 2 may be formed of a light metal such as resin or aluminum.

[About the frame structure]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the entire front side of the pachinko machine, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the main body frame and the game board of the pachinko machine separated from the diagonally upper right front.

  The main body frame 3 is configured by integrally molding the front frame body 11, the game board mounting frame 12, and the mechanism mounting body 13 with a synthetic resin material. The front frame body 11 of the main body frame 3 is formed in a rectangular frame shape having a size corresponding to the outer shape excluding the support plate 6 on the front side of the outer frame 2 (see FIG. 1). A main body frame side hinge device 15 is fixed to the upper and lower portions on one side of the front frame body 11, and a hinge pin and a hinge are connected to the outer frame side hinge device 14 fixed to the upper and lower portions on one side of the outer frame 2. It is mounted so that it can be opened and closed by a hole. That is, the hinge mechanism 7 is configured by the outer frame side hinge tool 14, the main body frame side hinge tool 15, the hinge pin, and the hinge hole.

  On the front side of the front frame body 11, a speaker box portion 16 is integrally formed in the front lower left area of the front frame body 11 positioned below the game board mounting frame 12, and is formed in the front opening portion of the speaker box portion 16. The speaker mounting plate 17 is mounted so as to close the opening. A speaker 18 is mounted on the speaker mounting plate 17. In addition, in the lower region of the front surface of the front frame 11, a firing rail 19 is attached to the upper half of the front frame 11 in an inclined manner. A lower front plate 30 is mounted on the lower half of the lower area of the front surface of the front frame 11. A lower tray 31 capable of storing game balls is provided at a substantially central portion of the front surface of the lower front plate 30, an operation handle 32 is provided on the right side, and an ashtray 33 is provided on the left side. . The lower plate 31 is provided with a ball discharge lever 34 for discharging the game ball downward.

[About front frame configuration]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. The front frame 4 is mounted on one side of the front surface of the front frame body 11 so as to cover a portion extending from the upper end of the front frame body 11 to the upper edge of the lower front plate 30 so as to be opened and closed forward by a hinge mechanism 36. Yes. In addition, a substantially circular opening window 38 through which the game area 37 of the game board 5 can be seen through from the front is formed at a substantially central portion of the front frame 4. Further, a window frame 39 having a rectangular frame shape larger than the opening window 38 is provided on the rear side of the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 50 such as a glass plate or a transparent resin plate is mounted on the window frame 39. . Further, substantially the entire front surface of the front frame 4 is decorated by a front decoration member in which a lamp or the like is provided, and an upper plate 51 is formed at the lower part of the front surface of the front frame 4. Specifically, around the opening window 38, a side decoration device 52 is mounted on the left and right sides, an upper plate 51 is mounted on the lower portion, and an acoustic decoration device 53 is mounted on the upper portion. The side decoration device 52 is mainly configured by a side decoration body 54 in which a lamp substrate is disposed and formed of a synthetic resin material. A plurality of slit-like opening holes that are long in the horizontal direction are arranged in the side decoration body 54 in the vertical direction, and a lens 55 corresponding to a light source disposed on the lamp substrate is incorporated in the opening hole. The acoustic illumination device 53 includes a transparent cover body 56, a speaker 57, a speaker cover 58, a reflector body (not shown), and the like, and these constituent members are assembled together to form a unit.

[About the configuration of the locking device]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. A function of locking the main body frame 3 with respect to the outer frame 2 and a function of locking the front frame 4 with respect to the main body frame 3 on the rear side of the free end side opposite to the hinge mechanism 36 of the front frame body 11 The locking device 70 having both of the above is mounted. That is, in this embodiment, the locking device 70 includes a plurality of upper and lower body frame locking hooks 72 that detachably engage with a closing tool 71 provided on the outer frame 2 to lock the body frame 3 in a closed state, From the front of the pachinko machine 1, a plurality of upper and lower door locking hooks 74 that detachably engage with a closing tool 73 provided on the rear side of the front end of the front frame 4 to lock the front frame 4 in a closed state. And a cylinder lock 75 that is exposed through the front frame 11 and the lower front plate 30 so that the key can be inserted and unlocked. Then, a key is inserted into the key hole of the cylinder lock 75 and rotated in one direction, so that the engagement between the main body frame locking hook 72 and the closing tool 71 of the outer frame 2 is released, and the main body frame 3 is unlocked. By rotating in the opposite direction, the engagement between the door locking hook 74 and the closing tool 73 of the front frame 4 is released and the front frame 4 is unlocked.

[Configuration of game board mounting frame and game board]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 5, and 11. 3 is an enlarged front view showing the configuration of the game area, FIG. 5 is a rear view showing the entire rear side of the pachinko machine, and FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the game area from the diagonally upper right front.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the game board mounting frame 12 of the main body frame 3 is provided on the rear side of the front frame body 11, and the game board 5 is mounted so as to be attachable / detachable from the front. . The game board 5 is composed of a game board 5a in a substantially square plate shape having a size to be fitted from the front of the game board mounting frame 12. A guide rail 78 including an outer rail 76 and an inner rail 77 is provided on the board surface (front surface) of the game board 5 (game board 5 a), and a game area 37 is defined inside the guide rail 78. . A predetermined gap is provided between the launch rail 19 and the guide rail 78, and when the launched game ball returns to the guide rail 78, the game ball is discharged from the gap. It is configured to be guided to the lower plate 31. Further, a front structural member 79 made of synthetic resin is mounted on the front surface of the game board 5 (game board 5a) in the outer region of the guide rail 78. Further, a center role 91 to be described later is attached to a substantially central portion of the game board 5 (game board 5a), and an opening 124 is formed so that the effect display device 115 located behind the game board 5a can be seen. An opening (not shown) is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 11, in the game area 37, a number of obstacle nails (not shown) are provided in a predetermined gauge arrangement, and a windmill (not shown) is placed at an appropriate position in the middle thereof. Is provided. A center accessory 91 is disposed at a substantially central position of the game area 37, and the model of the pachinko machine 1 and the game concept are characterized by the design of the center accessory 91. Details of the center accessory 91 will be described later.

  In addition, an effect display device 115 for effect display of the lottery result is provided behind the center accessory 91. As the effect display device 115, an appropriate display device capable of displaying image information obtained by combining decorative symbol image information, background image information, character image information, and the like is used. In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 115.

  On the other hand, a normal symbol starting port 96 is arranged below the center accessory 91 in the game area 37. When a game ball enters the normal symbol starting port 96, a normal symbol lottery is performed and the normal symbol is displayed. Fluctuation display is made. Also, on the left side of the center role 91, there is an ordinary electric accessory 81 that is opened for a short time when a winning is made in the normal lottery, and a special symbol start port 82 that allows a game ball to be won by this opening. It is arranged. When a game ball wins the special symbol start opening 82, a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is performed and the special symbol is changed.

  Further, in the game area 37, an attacker device 98 (generally also referred to as a big winning port or a lower big winning port) is disposed at a position further below the above normal symbol starting port 96, and this attacker device. 98 opens and closes the lower large winning opening 83 by opening and closing the opening and closing member 99 in the front-rear direction with the lower end portion of the opening and closing member 99 as an axis. Further, a ball out port 90 through which game balls flowing down the game area 37 are discharged is provided below the lower side big winning port 83. Details of the normal symbol starting port 96, the ordinary electric accessory 81, the special symbol starting port 82, the attacker device 98, and the like will be described later.

  Further, at the lower left corner of the center accessory 91, there are three LEDs 84 functioning as a normal symbol display 333 (details will be described later), and four LEDs 85 functioning as a normal holding ball lamp 323 indicating a normal lottery holding state. Is provided. The normal holding ball lamp 323 is configured such that the LED 85 is turned on for the number of times of holding (up to 4 times) in the normal lottery. In addition, four LEDs 86 functioning as a special symbol display 332 (details will be described later) for displaying a lottery result in the big hit lottery are provided on the upper left of the center accessory 91. For example, when the start winning prize is triggered, the four LEDs 86 are blinked in various patterns to display the variation state of the special symbol. When the variation of the special symbol is finished, the determined special symbol is displayed in a stopped state by the lighting / extinguishing display patterns of the four LEDs 86. That is, the lottery result information is notified by turning on / off the LED 86. The special symbol variation display and stop display control by turning on / off the LED 86 is performed by the main control board 765 (see FIG. 36).

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, at the lower rear side of the game board 5, as a collective bag for receiving the game balls flowing into various winning devices and guiding the game balls to a predetermined position in a portion extending from the center portion to the lower portion. A box mounting base 118 having both the above function and the function as a box mounting portion is provided. A sub-control board box 130 in which the sub-integrated board 763 is housed is mounted on the box mounting base 118, and the main control board 765 in which the main control board 765 is housed is stacked on the rear side of the sub-control board box 130. A control board box 132 is mounted. Further, in a state where the box mounting base 118, the sub control board box 130 and the main control board box 132 are respectively mounted on the rear side of the game board 5, the game board 5 is moved from the front of the game board mounting frame 12 of the main body frame 3. The box mounting base 118, the sub control board box 130, and the main control board box 132 are arranged so as not to protrude outward from the outline of the game board 5 so that they can be fitted and installed.

[About the position, size, and range of the game area and image display area]
A description will be given with reference to FIGS. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the front frame 4 is attached to the main body frame 3, the front frame 4 occupies at least two-thirds or more of the main body frame 3 in a front view. Then, the game area 37 having substantially the same circular shape and size as the transparent plate 50 can be visually recognized through the transparent plate 50 formed at the approximate center of the front frame 4. In addition, by arranging the outer rail 76 so as to form a substantially inscribed circle with respect to the square game board 5a of the game board 5, a game having a circular shape that is as wide as possible with respect to the square game board 5a. The area 37 is secured, and here the game area 37 has an area of at least three-fourths or more of the game board 5a.

  Further, the effect display device 115 provided at the rear of the game board 5 and located substantially in the center of the game area 37 in a front view has a horizontally-long rectangular image display area (an image display area 1150 described later). The image display area is visible through an opening 124 formed in the game board 5. This effect display device 115 is implemented as a large-sized liquid crystal display having a wider image display area in order to perform effects using various images and designs. Specifically, the width of the image display area of the effect display device 115 is approximately two-thirds the width of the game board 5, and the height of the image display area of the effect display device 115 is It has a size that is approximately one half of the vertical width of the game board 5. Since the image display area of the effect display device 115 has an area that is at least one third of the game area 37, the image display area of the effect display device 115 occupies a large proportion of the game area 37. It is an area.

  On the other hand, on the rear side of the game board 5, a rotary sorter 294, which is a circular large accessory in front view, straddles the inside of the game area 37 and the outside of the game area 37 (details will be described later). ) Is arranged. The “inside of the game area” is an inner area defined by the outer rail 76 in front view, and more specifically, an area sandwiched between the opening 124 and the outer rail 76 in front view. . The “outside of the game area” is an outer area defined by the outer rail 76 in front view, and more specifically, an area in which the front component member 79 is formed in front view.

  The rotary distribution device 294 includes one corner (here, the upper right corner) of the image display area of the effect display device 115, a part of the long side forming the corner, and the corner. It arrange | positions so that a part may overlap with the production | presentation display apparatus 115 so that the area | region containing 1/2 or more of the short side which forms a part may be concealed. Specifically, the rotary sorter 294 overlaps with a part of the image display area so as to hide approximately 15% of the image display area of the effect display device 115 in a front view, and to the right of the opening 124. It is arranged along the part. Further, a guide passage 340 described later overlaps with the image display area so that a bonus action using a game ball described later is executed in a portion overlapping the image display area of the rotary sorter 294. Has been placed. As described above, a part of the rotary sorting device 294 is arranged so as to overlap with the effect display device 115, and a part of the rotary sorting device 294 is arranged outside the game area 37. Can be appropriately attached to the game board 5. Furthermore, a portion (a viewable area 294a described later) in which an accessory action using a game ball by the rotary sorter 294 is executed is arranged inside the game area 37, so that a role by the rotary sorter 294 is used. The visibility of the object movement can be ensured and the original role can be executed.

  The game balls guided by the inner rail 77 and driven into the game area 37 are discharged from the ball out port 90 after flowing down the game area 37 along the left side of the opening 124. That is, in the game area 37, nails, windmills, and the like are provided along a specific area (the left side of the opening 124) where the game ball flows down, and a special symbol start port 96 described later is also provided. Yes. In the specific area where the game ball flows down, the rotary sorter 294 is not provided. Therefore, the rotary sorter 294 does not hinder the flow of the game ball, and the rotary sorter 294 is not disturbed. Even if the distribution device 294 is increased in size, the game can proceed smoothly.

  With such a configuration, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, most of the game area 37 (1/2 or more) is composed of the viewable area of the rotary sorting device 294 and the image display area of the effect display device 115. Will occupy. Therefore, in addition to enabling a more varied and impactful game effect using the rotary distribution device 294 and the effect display device 115, the rotary distribution device 294 and the effect display device 115 are connected to the game board 5 (game board). 5a) can be appropriately arranged, and does not hinder the flow of the game ball in the game area 37 (in other words, the progress of the game).

[Configuration of body frame mechanism mounting body, ball tank and tank rail]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the state in which various members are assembled to the main body frame of the pachinko machine from diagonally upper right rear, and FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the main body frame from diagonally upper right rear.

  A tank mounting portion 133, a rail mounting portion 134, a dispensing device mounting portion 135, and the like are formed on the mechanism mounting body 13 of the main body frame 3, and a ball tank 136 is mounted on the tank mounting portion 133. The ball tank 136 is made of a transparent synthetic resin material, and is formed in a box shape opening upward so that a large number of game balls supplied from the island facility can be stored. The storage state of the game balls in the ball tank 136 is visible through the rear side wall of the ball tank 136. In addition, a discharge port 138 that discharges a game ball is formed at the rear corner of the bottom plate portion 137 of the ball tank 136, and the bottom plate portion 137 is formed on an inclined surface that is inclined downward toward the discharge port 138. .

  The mechanism mounting body 13 of the main body frame 3 is integrally formed with a rail mounting portion 134 so as to approach the tank mounting portion 133 downward, and the rail component 139 is mounted on the rail mounting portion 134 so that the tank rail 150 is configured. That is, in this embodiment, the rail mounting portion 134 is formed in a state in which the upper lateral portion of the main body frame 3 is recessed by a predetermined depth, and the back side wall of the recess is used as the front wall portion 151 of the tank rail 150. An inclined rail shelf 155 is formed along the lower edge of the concave portion so as to incline downward from one end (left end toward FIG. 9) to the other end (right end toward FIG. 9). An upward surface extending in the lateral direction of the rail shelf 155 is a rail receiving portion 158.

  The rail constituting member 139 that is mounted on the rail mounting portion 134 and constitutes the tank rail 150 includes a rear wall portion 152 that forms a rail passage between the rail mounting portion 134 and the front wall portion 151, and an inclined lower plate And a partition wall (both not shown) that project along the center in the front-rear direction of the upper surface of the lower plate part and divide the rail passage into front and rear rows (in this embodiment, front and rear rows). It is formed in preparation. The rail constituting member 139 is attached to the rail attaching portion 134 by an appropriate attachment means, thereby forming a tank rail 150 having a plurality of front and rear rows of rail passages. Then, after the game balls discharged from the discharge port 138 of the ball tank 136 (dropped by its own weight) are received at one end of the rail passages in the front and rear rows of the tank rail 150, the game balls are moved along the rail passage by their own weight. And rolling toward the other end of the rail passage. Further, in this embodiment, the rail component member 139 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, whereby the flow state of the game balls in the rail passage is visually recognized through the rear wall portion 152 of the rail component member 139. It is possible.

  The front wall portion 151 of the tank rail 150 (rail mounting portion 134) has a first space portion to avoid interference with the upper end portion of the rear portion of the equipment (for example, the center accessory 91) protruding rearward of the game board 5. It is provided in a separated state. In this embodiment, the rear end of the rail shelf 155 serving as the rear end portion of the main body frame 3 and the rear wall portion of the tank rail 150 are substantially flush with the rear side wall of the ball tank 136. In other words, the tank rail 150 is arranged behind the rear surface of the game board 5 so that the rear wall portion of the ball tank 136 is substantially flush with the rear wall portion of the ball tank 136. Accordingly, a first space portion for avoiding interference with the rear portion of the center accessory 91 is provided between the rear side of the game board 5 and the front wall portion 151 of the tank rail 150.

  Above the tank rail 150, a rectifying body 156 for aligning the game balls flowing in the rail passage without overlapping each other is mounted on the upper portion thereof so as to be swingable about the shaft 157. The rectifier 156 is provided with a weight from the center to the bottom.

[Configuration of payout device mounting part and ball payout device]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. A vertically long paying device mounting portion 135 corresponding to a ball paying device (ball paying unit) 170 described below is formed in the vertical direction of one side of the mechanism mounting body 13 of the main body frame 3. The dispensing device mounting portion 135 is formed in a concave shape having an opening on the rear side. In addition, an opening 173 through which a payout motor 172 (see FIG. 4) of the ball payout device 170 can project is formed at a predetermined position of a back wall portion (not shown) having a stepped shape of the payout device mounting portion 135. .

  In a state where the ball paying device 170 is mounted in the recess of the paying device mounting portion 135, a second space portion is provided between the game board 5 and the first space portion, which is at substantially the same level in the front-rear direction. . Thus, the rail passage and the ball passage are arranged at substantially the same level in the front-rear direction. Further, the rear end of the body frame 3, that is, the rear end of the peripheral wall portion of the dispensing device mounting portion 135, the rear end of the rail shelf 155, the rear surfaces of the ball tank 136, the tank rail 150, and the ball dispensing device 170 are substantially the same surface. ing.

  The ball payout device 170 has a vertically long box shape that is substantially the same size as the recess of the payout device mounting portion 135, and is unitized by mounting various parts related to payout. The ball payout device 170 is fitted from the rear opening of the concave portion of the payout device mounting portion 135 and is mounted by appropriate mounting means (for example, mounting means such as an elastic clip, a locking claw, and a screw). It has become.

  Although not shown, the ball dispensing device 170 is formed by dividing the ball passages having inflow ports respectively communicating with the outlets of the rail passages in the tank rail 150 into a plurality of front and rear rows (for example, front and rear rows). Also, the downstream portions of the front and rear rows of ball passages formed in the interior are bifurcated to form front and rear rows of prize balls, a ball rental ball passage and a ball removal ball passage. In addition, a payout member (not shown) made of a rotating body for distributing and paying out game balls to any of the passages is rotated in the forward and reverse directions at a branch portion between the winning ball and the ball passage for lending and the ball passage for ball removal. It is arranged to be possible.

[Equipment on the lower rear of the main frame]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. On the rear side of the front frame body 11 of the main body frame 3, one side (left side in FIG. 5) of the rear lower region of the front frame body 11 located below the game board mounting frame 12 is below the launch rail 19. A launching device 194 that is unitized by assembling a launching hammer (not shown) for launching a game ball sent to the launching position of the tilted end, a launching motor 192 that operates the launching hammer, and the like onto the mounting substrate 193 is provided. It is installed. In addition, a power supply board box 196 that houses the power supply board 195 is mounted at a substantially central portion of the rear lower region of the front frame body 11, and the dispensing control board 775 is placed in a state of being superimposed on the rear side of the power supply board box 196. A payout control board box 198 is mounted. The payout control board 775 includes a RAM that stores the number of game balls to be paid out, and transmits a control signal for paying out game balls in accordance with a payout signal transmitted from the main control board 765 to a relay circuit board (not shown). Thus, the operation of the dispensing motor 172 is controlled.

[Configuration of rear cover body]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the entire rear side of the pachinko machine from the upper right rear.

  The rear end portions of the display device control board box 117 (see FIG. 10) and the main control board box 132 arranged on the rear surface of the game board 5 protrude toward the window opening portion opened in the center portion of the mechanism mounting body 13. . And between the side wall part which comprises one side wall of the window opening part of the mechanism mounting body 13, and the one side wall of the dispensing device mounting part 135 which comprises the other side wall, a substantially square box shape is formed by an opaque synthetic resin material. The formed rear cover body 210 is detachably mounted by a cover hinge mechanism 211.

  The rear cover body 210 is configured integrally with a substantially rectangular rear wall portion 212 and a peripheral wall portion 213 that protrudes forward from the outer peripheral edge of the rear wall portion 212. Of the peripheral wall portion 213 of the rear cover body 210, the wall portion 213 a on one side is attached and detached from above the hinge holes of the hinge body 214 formed at a total of three locations above and below the side wall portion of the mechanism mounting body 13. A hinge body 216 having a hinge pin 215 that can be fitted downward is integrally formed. Further, of the peripheral wall portion 213 of the rear cover body 210, the other wall portion 213b has a locking claw that can be elastically engaged with a locking hole formed in one side wall of the dispensing device mounting portion 135. An elastic closing body 217 is integrally formed.

  That is, in the rear cover body 210, the hinge pins 215 of the upper and lower and intermediate hinge bodies 216 are fitted from above the hinge holes of the hinge body 214 on the side wall portion of the mechanism mounting body 13. In this state, the rear cover body 210 is rotated toward the other side of the mechanism mounting body 13 around the hinge pin 215, and the elastic closing body 217 is inserted into the locking hole on one side wall of the dispensing device mounting portion 135. The rear cover body 210 is held in a closed state on the rear side of the mechanism mounting body 13 by being elastically engaged. Then, the rear cover body 210 covers the entire display device control board box 117 (see FIG. 11) on the rear surface of the game board 5 and a portion extending from the substantially middle portion to the upper end of the main control board box 132 by the rear cover body 210. ing. As a result, the board connector of the main control board 765 exposed to the upper part of the main control board box 132 (mainly a board connector for connecting to the liquid crystal control board 758) is hidden from view behind.

  Further, a portion from the substantially middle portion to the lower end of the main control board box 132 is exposed without being covered by the rear cover body 210. The inspection connector 218 disposed on the main control board 765 is exposed below the main control board box 132, and the inspection connector on the main control board 765 is closed with the rear cover body 210 closed. A board inspection device (not shown) can be connected to the connector 218 for inspection.

  A large number of heat radiation holes 230, 231, 232, and 233 are provided in the rear cover body 210, and internal heat is released from these many heat radiation holes 230, 231, 232, and 233. . In this embodiment, the rear cover body 210 is provided with a large number of slit-like heat radiation holes 230 extending from the peripheral wall portion 213 to the rear wall portion 212, and from the substantially middle height position of the rear wall portion 212 to the upper portion. A large number of elliptical, elliptical, etc. heat radiation holes 231 are provided therethrough, and a large number of elliptical, elliptical, etc. heat radiation holes 232 and a predetermined number of horizontally elongated rectangular heat radiation holes 233 pass through the lower portion of the rear wall 212. It is installed.

  Further, the horizontally long rectangular heat radiation holes 233 have a size corresponding to the size and arrangement position of a plurality of parallel seal portions 235 sealed by the seal screws (sealing members) of the main control board box 132. It penetrates the position. As a result, even when the opaque rear cover body 210 is closed, the plurality of parallel sealing portions 235 of the main control board box 132 are exposed so as to be visible at the portion of the heat radiation hole 233. For this reason, even when the rear cover body 210 is closed, the sealing state of the sealing portion 235 of the main control board box 132 can be easily visually confirmed. Further, since the opaque synthetic resin material can be easily used as a synthetic resin material that is recycled compared to the transparent synthetic resin material, the rear cover body 210 can be manufactured at low cost.

  Of the peripheral wall portion 213 of the rear cover body 210, a predetermined position (two places on the left and right in this embodiment) of the upper wall portion 213c is substantially C-shaped to hold a power cord (not shown) in an appropriately folded state. An elastically deformable cord holder 237 extends toward the rear wall surface of the upper tank rail 150 (the rear wall surface of the rail component 139). A knob for removing the power cord by elastically deforming the cord holder 237 is formed at the tip of the cord holder 237.

  One end of the power cord is detachably connected to the board connector 239 of the distribution board 238, and the power plug at the other end is inserted into a power outlet. As described above, the cord holder 237 is integrally formed on the rear cover body 210 to hold the power cord, so that the power cord hangs and gets caught by foreign objects when the pachinko machine is transported and stored. Problems can be prevented.

[About the configuration of ball derivatives etc. for the lower pan in the rear lower part of the body frame]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which the rear cover and various control boards are removed from the perspective view of the pachinko machine shown in FIG.

  A lower dish ball derivative 253 is attached to the other side portion (hinge portion) of the rear lower region of the main body frame 3 in the recessed portion of the rear step portion of the speaker box portion 16. The lower tray ball derivative 253 is used when the game balls paid out to the upper plate 51 through the upper plate connection path (not shown) from the award and rental ball passages of the ball dispensing device 170 are full. The game ball on the upper plate communication path is for guiding the game ball to the lower plate 31.

  In this embodiment, a board box 254 that houses the interface board 252 is mounted on the outer surface of the rear wall of the lower plate ball derivative 253. The interface board 252 is interposed between the ball lending machine installed adjacent to the pachinko machine 1 and the payout control board 775, and transmits / receives a signal related to ball lending between the ball lending machine and the payout control board 775. Electrical connection is possible.

[Concerning the specific composition of the Center character]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 is a front view showing the center accessory, FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing a state where the front unit and the rear unit of the center accessory are separated, and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the front unit separated in functional units. 15 is an exploded perspective view showing a state, FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the front unit from obliquely upper left front, FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the front unit obliquely from upper right rear, and FIG. 17 is a functional unit of the rear unit. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the state isolate | separated by.

  As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the center accessory 91 has a frame-like appearance, and is arranged in the center of the game area 37, and the outer peripheral portion extending from the upper side to the right side is the game area 37. It extends to the right edge. That is, the substantial game area 37 is not formed on the right side of the center accessory 91 so that the game ball does not pass through. Although the size of the center accessory 91 is not particularly limited, in this example, the center accessory 91 is constructed as an extremely large accessory that occupies about 2/3 of the entire game area 37.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 to 17, the center accessory 91 is roughly divided into a front unit 120 arranged on the front side and a rear unit 121 arranged on the rear side. The front unit 120 and the rear unit 121 are joined by sandwiching the game board 5 from the front and rear. The front unit 120 is disposed in a state of protruding forward from the game area 37 and includes a decorative frame 125 that partitions the game area 37 and the internal space. A guide wall 123 for guiding the game ball is formed on the left side of the outer peripheral surface of the decorative frame 125, and an opening 124 functioning as a display window is provided in the center of the decorative frame 125. It has been.

  The decoration frame 125 has a decoration on the surface, and an electric decoration body 129 including a plurality of light emitting means is provided on the right side. Further, in the decorative frame 125, the upper right portion protrudes upward from the upper left portion, and an expansion opening 140 is formed inside thereof. The expansion opening 140 functions as a space for accommodating a rotary sorting device 294 described later, and is formed in a state of communicating with the opening 124. The guide wall 123 on the left side wall of the extended opening 140 is provided with an upper prize opening 141 through which the game ball can be won, penetrating the peripheral surface of the decoration frame 125 and can be opened and closed by the movable piece 142. Yes. Note that the drawing shows a state in which the upper prize winning opening 141 is closed by the movable piece 142, and in this state, it is not possible to make a game ball win at the upper prize winning opening 141. The game ball that has opened the movable piece 142 and won the upper prize winning opening 141 is guided by a guide passage 340 made of a transparent resin member, and is sent to a rotary sorter 294 described later.

  Further, a warp inlet 63 (see FIG. 15) through which a game ball can enter is provided on the left side surface of the decoration frame 125. It is possible to incorporate. On the inner bottom surface of the decorative frame 125, there is provided an outflow portion 62 for guiding a game ball flowing out from the stage 20 described later to the vicinity of the normal symbol starting port 96. A plurality of light emitting decorative bodies 61 simulating a light projector are arranged inside the decorative frame 125.

  Hereinafter, each of the above-described components assembled to the decorative frame 125 will be described in more detail.

[About the movable piece and its drive mechanism]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 13, 14, 15, 18, and 19. FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing the opening / closing mechanism of the movable piece, and FIG.

  The movable piece 142 that opens and closes the top prize winning opening 141 is positioned above the front side of the big winning prize opening unit 146 and is slidably sandwiched by the upper lid 143 and the middle frame 145, and is moved back and forth by the special prize opening opening / closing driving means 160 described later. Is slid in the direction. In addition, the rear unit 121 of the center accessory 91 is provided with a special prize opening attachment base 296 that is a box body for accommodating and fixing the special prize opening opening / closing drive means 160 therein. In the front unit 120 of 91, a large winning opening attaching window 302 is formed, which is a window portion that allows the large winning opening opening / closing driving means 160 disposed on the large winning opening attaching base 296 to be visually recognized from the front side.

  The movable piece 142 rotates the link arm 163 about the link shaft 164 as a rotation axis by the movement of the plunger 162 of the solenoid 161. The link arm 163 slides the movable piece 142 back and forth by a link mechanism. In this manner, the reciprocating motion of the plunger 162 is converted into the reciprocating motion of the movable piece 142, and can be displaced from the protruding state (closed state) to the retracted state (open state). Note that the plunger 162 is lowered when not energized, and the movable piece 142 is kept in a protruding state via the link arm 163.

  In the special prize opening / closing driving means 160, the solenoid 161 is sandwiched in the vertical direction by the middle frame 145 and the receiving part 144, and the link shaft 164 is fitted in the receiving part 144 to be received in the special prize opening unit 146. Established. A solenoid support portion 148 is joined to the rear side of the solenoid 161, and serves as a guide for fixing the special prize opening unit 146. The big prize opening unit 146 is inserted and fixed to the big prize opening attachment window 302 and the big prize opening attachment base 296 so that the movable piece 142 and the upper big prize opening 141 are exposed forward. In addition, a game ball detecting means 147 (winning hole sensor 330) is provided in the middle of the game ball that has won a prize at the upper prize winning opening 141 flowing into the guide passage 340, and the game ball detecting means 147 provides an upper prize winning opening 141. It is detected that the game ball has won.

[Stage and compound rolling distribution device]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, and 22. FIG. 20 is a plan view showing the composite rolling distribution device, FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the composite rolling distribution device, and FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the under-stage illumination. .

  A stage 20 capable of rolling the game ball on the upper surface is provided at the center lower portion (that is, the inner bottom surface) of the front unit 120. A compound rolling distribution device 21 surrounded by an outer peripheral wall 41 (see FIG. 21) is formed at the center of the stage 20, and a stage left margin 42 and a right canopy 43 are formed at the outer edge thereof. . An approach path 45 (see FIG. 16) connected to the outer edge portion of the composite rolling distribution device 21 is formed at the left rear side of the stage 20. The upstream end of the approach path 45 is connected to a warp outlet 44, and the warp outlet 44 communicates with a warp inlet 63 that opens toward the game area 37 through a warp passage 60. A partition plate 40 is erected on the player side of the stage 20, and an outflow portion 62 including a specific outflow channel 26 and a normal outflow channel 27 is formed below the partition plate 40.

  The stage 20 as a whole is integrally formed of a light-transmitting plastic, and an under-stage electrical decoration 100 (see FIG. 22) is disposed on the entire surface below the stage 20. A light projecting decorative body 61 is disposed below the right canopy 43 and is visible through the right canopy 43. The floodlight decorative body 61 will be described later.

  The complex rolling distribution device 21 is formed with a concave second rolling region 23 in which one specific outlet 24 and two normal outlets 25 are formed at the center, and an outer edge thereof. A first rolling region 22 is formed which is in an oval shape in plan view and has a slope that is higher at the outer edge than the inner edge. A step portion 28 is formed at the boundary between the first rolling region 22 and the second rolling region 23, and the first rolling region 22 is slightly higher than the second rolling region 23 in a step shape. Yes. The specific outlet 24 is connected to a specific outflow path 26 of the outflow portion 62 formed at the front and lower side of the stage 20, and the normal outlet 25 is connected to the normal outflow path 27. The normal game start port 96 is allowed to flow out into the game area 37 (see FIG. 3).

  The game ball that has entered the warp inlet 63 passes through the curved warp passage 60 and descends onto the stage 20 from the warp outlet 44. The game ball that has gained speed by descending the warp passage 60 rolls on the approach path 45 and enters the first rolling region 22 of the composite rolling sorting device 21. The game ball proceeds in a direction crossing from the left to the right on the first rolling area 22 according to the orientation of the approach path 45, and gradually turns clockwise in accordance with the gradient of the first rolling area 22. The game ball turns around the second rolling area 23, travels a portion of the first rolling area 22 closer to the player than the second rolling area 23, and eventually the first rolling area 22 and the second rolling area 23 It flows into the second rolling region 23 beyond the step 28 formed at the boundary with the second rolling region 23.

  Unlike the first rolling region 22, the second rolling region 23 has a circular planar shape. A step portion 28 is formed at the boundary between the second rolling region 23 and the first rolling region 22, and the outer edge portion of the second rolling region 23 is lower than the inner edge portion of the first rolling region 22. ing. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed into the second rolling region 23 does not flow back to the first rolling region 22 beyond the step portion 28. When the game ball passes the stepped portion 28 and enters the second rolling region 23, the second rolling region 23 has a circular planar shape, so that the game ball is guided by the stepped portion 28 and the gaming ball is moved to the first rolling region 22. It turns with a trajectory that is harder than the upper trajectory. Eventually, the game ball approaches the central portion according to the gradient of the second rolling region 23 and is immersed in either the specific outlet 24 or the normal outlet 25.

  The game ball immersed in the specific outlet 24 flows down the specific outflow path 26 connected to the specific outlet 24 toward the player side, and at a position directly above the normal symbol starting port 96 from the center of the outflow portion 62. It flows out to the game area 37. On the other hand, the game ball immersed in the normal exit 25 flows down the normal outflow path 27 and flows out from the left or right opening of the outflow portion 62 to the game area 37. Since the opening part of the normal outflow path 27 is shifted from the center to the left and right, the game ball hardly enters the normal symbol starting port 96. On the other hand, when it flows out from the specific outflow path 26 to the game area 37, almost all enters the normal symbol starting port 96. In this way, the composite rolling distribution device 21 performs a function of distributing the winnings to the normal symbol starting port 96 and other results on the stage 20.

  The complex rolling distribution device 21 is a rolling distribution device having a size that occupies most of the lower center of the center accessory 91, and is planar compared to a conventional concave rolling distribution device. Since the game ball rolls in a wide area, it is an attractive feature for the player.

  Moreover, according to the composite rolling distribution apparatus 21, since the rolling surface is large, the possibility that the game balls come into contact with each other even when a plurality of game balls flow in is reduced. As a result, the trajectory of the game ball changes, and it flows out of the specific outlet 24 or the normal outlet 25 earlier than when it does not collide, or conversely stays on the rolling surface without easily flowing out. There is an effect to prevent.

  In addition, the composite rolling distribution device 21 has an entrance path 45 through which the first rolling area 22 extends in the outer extending portion of the second rolling area 23 and allows game balls to flow from the outer edge of the first rolling area 22. This is a two-dimensionally-structured object and does not impair the visibility of the effect display device 115 by creating a shielding part in front of the effect display device 115. It has a shape suitable as an accessory positioned below.

  The complex rolling distribution device 21 includes a first rolling region 22 and a second rolling region 23 which are rolling surfaces, a specific outlet 24 and a normal outlet 25, and is driven by a motor or the like. There are no movable members. Therefore, for example, there is no problem of aiming at a specific area due to intermittent games measured by the player, which is likely to be a problem in a power-driven distribution device. Further, since there is no movable member, there is an advantage that there is little risk of damage or wear due to use, and it is difficult to cause a failure.

[Partition plate]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. The partition plate 40 is a thin plate made of a light-transmitting plastic, has a substantially oval shape with a part cut away in a front view, and is located at the forefront below the center of the player-side opening 124 of the front unit 120. Established. The surface of the partition plate 40 is formed with irregularities that cause a slight change in thickness, and a double ellipse pattern is drawn. This brings about a design effect that suggests the shape of the combined rolling distribution device 21 and emphasizes the existence of the outflow portion 62.

  The partition plate 40 is erected at the forefront portion of the stage 20 on the player side, and prevents the game ball from flowing out from the front. If there is no partition plate 40 and the game ball flows out from the front of the stage 20, the game ball that has flowed in from the approach path 45 does not necessarily pass through the combined rolling distribution device 21, and the game area 37. May flow out from the opening 124 forward. Due to the presence of the partition plate 40, the game ball that has flowed into the stage 20 always flows out from the specific outlet 24 or the normal outlet 25 of the composite rolling distribution device 21, and the game ball is stably and at a predetermined probability. It can be made to enter the normal symbol starting port 96. This makes it possible for manufacturers to provide a gaming machine with a stable winning rate, which will stabilize the profits of the amusement store and allow players to tackle the game with peace of mind.

  Further, when the game ball flows into the combined rolling distribution device 21 vigorously, or when the game ball can flow into the stage 20 from a place other than the warp inlet 63, the game ball is caused by a bullet or the like. Although there is a possibility of flowing out from the opening 124 to the player side, since the partition plate 40 is sufficiently high in height, it is possible to prevent outflow from the front even when the game ball bounces.

  Conversely, a game ball that flows down the game area 37 and is bulleted by a nail or the like disposed on the game board 5 passes through the opening 124 and enters the center accessory 91. 40. The upper and left sides of the center accessory 91 are partitioned by a decorative frame 125, and the game balls flowing down the game area 37 do not enter the stage 20 except through the warp inlet 63. Further, below the center accessory 91, the partition plate 40 has a sufficient height even if the game ball jumps upward, and prevents the game ball from entering the center accessory 91. The kinetic energy obtained by the game ball flowing down the game area 37 is insufficient to jump over the partition plate 40 and enter the stage 20, and even when the game ball is shot by a nail or the like. Since there is no contact with other game balls on the stage 20, there is no possibility of affecting the distribution of the game balls in the composite rolling distribution device 21.

  Moreover, since the upper part of the opening part 124 is not covered with the partition plate 40, an operator can insert a hand or a tool at the time of maintenance or the like, and the workability is excellent. Also, since there are no moving parts, it is difficult to cause a failure.

  Moreover, although the partition plate 40 is erected on the player side from the stage 20, since it is formed of a translucent material, it impedes the visibility of the effect display device 115 and the like located in the back. There is nothing.

  Further, since the partition plate 40 is installed in the portion closest to the player side of the center actor 91, it is visually conspicuous, but the whole is a substantially elliptical plate shape and a part of the thickness is thin. Since it has an appearance that two large and small ellipses overlap, it has a design reminiscent of the relationship with the shape of the composite rolling distribution device 21. Moreover, the thin part of said partition plate 40 is formed in the location close | similar to the outflow part 62, and the effect which recalls the shape of the opening part of the outflow part 62 can also be anticipated. Thereby, it can prevent that the partition plate 40 becomes obstructive also in the forefront part of the center accessory 91 as a design structure.

[About the stage lighting]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. The stage 20 is made of a light-transmitting plastic, and the under-stage electrical decoration 100 disposed below the stage is visible through the stage 20. The understage electrical decoration 100 includes an LED substrate 104, a lens 101, and a reflector 102, and a circular notch 103 is formed at the center. Above the circular notch 103, the second rolling region 23 of the composite rolling distribution device 21 is located, and the specific outlet 24 and the normal outlet 27 connected to the specific outlet 24 and the normal outlet 25 are the circular notch 103. It penetrates through the gap.

  The lens 101 is formed of a light-transmitting plastic. On the other hand, the reflector 102 is formed of an opaque plastic, a large number of small rectangular holes are opened on the upper surface, and a glossy surface is formed on the upper surface. The lens 101 and the reflector 102 are combined, and a small hole of the reflector 102 has a light-transmitting window shape. The LED board 104 includes a large number of LEDs facing upward at positions corresponding to the small holes of the reflector 102, and the upper surface of the stage 20 is caused to emit light through a window-like portion of the lens 101 disposed above the LED board 104. Directing. The LED on the LED substrate 104 is transmitted upward through the window-shaped portion of the lens 101, but the transmitted light is diffused by the lens 101, reflected by the upper surface of the reflector 102, and passed through the stage 20 from below. Irradiate overall.

[About floodlight decoration]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. The floodlight decorative body 61 has an external appearance imitating a television camera. An LED is provided at the center of the light projecting decorative body 61, and is controlled by a sub-integrated board 763 (see FIG. 36) to emit light and visually produce the periphery of the stage 20. There are three light projecting decorative bodies 61 in total, one each arranged on the upper left side, the left side inside the opening 124 of the front unit 120, and below the right canopy 43.

[Schematic configuration of rear unit]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. The rear unit 121 includes a frame-shaped rear frame 292 having an opening 291 through which the effect display device 115 can be visually recognized, a grand prize opening unit 146 disposed on the upper left of the rear frame 292, and a rear frame 292. A game that is arranged on the right side and that is guided from the top prize winning opening 141 by a rotating body, and a game that flows out of the rotary sorter 294 that is arranged below the rear frame 292. There is a right discharge path unit 273 in which a sorting apparatus discharge path 274 for discharging balls is formed, and a left start port discharge path 272 for discharging game balls flowing out from the special start port unit 530 (see FIG. 29, etc.). And a discharge path unit 271 formed in the above. Hereinafter, each component in the rear unit 121 will be described in detail.

[About rear frame]
This will be described with reference to FIG. The rear frame 292 is a substantially quadrangular frame-shaped member whose front surface is open, and includes a plate-like back plate 300 in which an opening 291 is formed, and a side plate 301 that extends forward from the periphery of the back plate 300. It consists of and. That is, each of the above-described components is formed in a box shape so as to be accommodated in the rear frame 292. Although not shown, a guide passage component for guiding a winning game ball or a discharged game ball to a predetermined portion is assembled around the rear frame 292, particularly on the left side and the lower right side. It is supposed to be.

[Rotating sorter]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing the rotary sorting device from the upper left front, FIG. 24 is a front view showing the rotary sorting device, and FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the rotary sorting device with the rotating body and carry-in pieces removed. FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which the components of the rotary sorter are separated from the upper left front, and FIG. 27 is a state in which the components of the rotary sorter are separated. FIG. 28 is an explanatory view showing the internal configuration of the rotary sorter.

  As shown in FIGS. 23 to 28, the rotary sorting device 294 has a disk-shaped rotating body 297 that has a concave specific area 343 and a normal area 344 as a plurality of areas, and is rotatably supported. The rotating body driving means 405 and a rotating body case 342 having an outer peripheral wall 346 surrounding the rotating body 297 are provided. The rotary sorter 294 is fixedly attached to the back of the game board 5a so that the surface of the rotating body 297 and the surface of the game board 5a are parallel to each other. Specifically, the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 are formed so as to cut out the outer peripheral edge of the rotating body 297.

  The rotary sorter 294 has a rotating body 297 that normally stops rotating. In the present embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol based on the winning of the game ball at the special symbol start opening 82 is completed, the rotation of the rotating body 297 starts almost simultaneously, and the winning prize is received at the upper prize winning port 141 to guide the passage. The game ball that has flowed down 340 is divided into an advantageous state and an unfavorable state by the rotating body 297. In the present embodiment, the state in which the game ball which has won the upper prize winning opening 141 and has flowed down the guide passage 340 is received in the specific area 343 is advantageous, and the state where the game ball is received in the normal area 344 is disadvantageous. It is. Then, after the game ball received in the specific area 343 or the normal area 344 flows out from the specific outlet 360 or the normal outlet 361 described later, the rotation of the rotating body 297 is stopped.

  The rotation of the rotating body 297 is always stopped at the same position of the specific area 343 so that the specific area 343 always starts rotating from the same position when starting to rotate clockwise. Specifically, the rotator 297 is stopped when the specific region 343 is at a position slightly above the left (a position at 46.5 minutes), and starts rotating from the position at 46.5 minutes. The If the specific area 343 is stopped when the specific area 343 is at the position of 46.5 minutes, as will be described later, the specific area 343 and the inflow port 347 are stopped.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 25, an inlet 347 that is temporarily communicated with the specific area 343 or the normal area 344 as the rotating body 297 rotates is formed in the outer peripheral wall 346 of the rotating body case 342. . Further, the rotating body receiving surface 349 that accommodates the rotating body 297 in the rotating body case 342 has a specific outlet 360 that allows the game ball received in the specific area 343 to flow out of the machine, and a game ball received in the normal area 344. And a normal outlet 361 for allowing the gas to flow out of the apparatus. Further, as shown in FIG. 28, a game ball detecting means 384 (V winning sensor 331) is provided in the middle of the first outflow path 387 through which the game ball flowing out from the specific outlet 360 flows down. When a game ball is detected by 384, a special electric utility big hit process is performed, and a special game (big hit game) that is advantageous to the player is generated. On the other hand, a game ball detection means 385 (discharge sensor 313) is provided in the middle of the second outflow path 388 through which the game balls flowing out from the normal outlet 361 flow down, and the game balls are detected by the game ball detection means 385. However, the big hit game that is advantageous to the player does not occur.

  Specifically, the special game (big hit game) is a round game that repeats up to 15 rounds of opening and closing the attacker device 98 in a fixed pattern for a maximum of 30 seconds. It is called. The player can obtain a lot of prize balls by winning the game balls in the lower big prize opening 83 during the big hit game. Note that each round operation ends when either 30 seconds elapses or 10 winning balls are counted. The big hit game ends when the round operation is completed 15 times.

  The rotating body 297 is rotatably supported by a rotating shaft 364 having an axial center provided in the front-rear direction of the gaming machine, and has a disk shape. At the periphery thereof, there are provided three specific regions 343 that are arranged at equal intervals and open in the radial direction, and fifteen normal regions 344 formed at equal intervals between the specific regions 343. ing. That is, the phase difference between the specific areas 343 is 120 °, and five normal areas 344 are arranged between the specific areas 343. Through holes that can discharge game balls are formed in the bottom surfaces of the respective regions 343 and 344, and the game balls flow out by a combination of the through holes and an outlet formed in the rotating body receiving surface 349. The state and the state where it is not discharged are switched. More specifically, the through hole in the specific area 343 is formed at a position that matches the specific outlet 360 formed in the rotor receiving surface 349 and does not match the normal outlet 361, while the through hole in the normal area 344 Is formed at a position that matches the normal outlet 361 formed on the rotating body receiving surface 349 and does not match the specific outlet 360. Here, “match” indicates a state where the game balls are communicated with each other at least to the extent that the game balls can be discharged, and “does not match” means that the communication portion is larger than the diameter of the game balls even if they overlap. A small game ball is not allowed to pass through. Therefore, when a game ball is received in the specific area 343, the game ball rotates together with the rotating body 297, and flows out of the specific outlet 360 when the specific area 343 matches the specific outlet 360. When a game ball is received in the normal area 344, the game ball rotates with the rotating body 297, and flows out from the normal outlet 361 when the normal area 344 matches the normal outlet 361. Note that a V winning sensor 331 (see FIG. 36) is disposed in the first outflow path 387 that communicates with the specific outlet 360 and flows down the game ball that has flowed out of the specific outlet 360. Is detected by the V winning sensor 331. In addition, a discharge sensor 313 (see FIG. 36) is disposed in the second outflow path 388 that communicates with the normal outlet 361 and flows down the game ball that has flowed out of the normal outlet 361. Is discharged by the discharge sensor 313.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 24, if a threshold (area length of the specific area 343) from the normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343 to the specific area 343 is R, from any one of the normal areas 344 The distance to the normal area 344 after the normal area 344 (the length of the normal area 344) is 1.8R. Further, the distance from the specific area 343 to the normal area 344 immediately after the specific area 343 (the area length of the normal area 344) is 1.8R.

  Here, the “normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343” means the normal area 344 that is one area before the specific area 343 in the rotation direction of the rotary sorter 294. That is, the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 sequentially reach the inflow port 347 by the rotation of the rotary sorter 294, but the normal area 344 reaches the inflow port 347 one ahead of the specific area 343. Of the specific area 343 provided at the periphery of the rotator 297, the opening that can receive the game ball is the “special selection port” of the present invention, and the opening of the normal area 344 provided at the periphery of the rotator 297. Among them, the opening that can receive the game ball is the “normal selection port” of the present invention. Further, in the specific region 343, a wall portion interposed from the “special selection port” to the “normal selection port” adjacent to the accessory rotation direction (that is, the previous “normal selection port”) is the present invention. From the “normally selected port” of the normal region 344 to another “normally selected port” (that is, the previous “normally selected port”) adjacent to the accessory in the direction of rotation. The wall portion interposed between the two is the “normal peripheral wall” of the present invention.

  Further, “the interval from the normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343 to the specific area 343” means “from the left end of the normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343 to the left end of the specific area 343” Meaning “Kyori to the Department”. Similarly, “from one of the normal areas 344 to the normal area 344 immediately after the normal area 344” and “from the specific area 343 to the normal area 344 after the specific area 343” Respectively, “from the left end of the opening of any one of the normal areas 344 to the left end of the opening of the normal area 344 immediately after the normal area 344” and “the specific area from the left end of the opening of the specific area 343” This means “the distance to the left end of the opening of the normal region 344 one after 343”.

  Note that the opening length of the specific region 343 and the opening length of the normal region 344 are approximately the same size. In other words, the gap from the left end of the opening of any one of the normal areas 344 to the right end of the opening of the normal area 344 immediately after the normal area 344 is the opening of the normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343. It is formed larger than the distance from the left end portion to the right end portion of the opening of the specific region 343. Similarly, the gap from the left end of the opening of the specific area 343 to the right end of the opening of the normal area 344 immediately after the specific area 343 is also determined from the left end of the normal area 344 immediately before the specific area 343. The area 343 is formed to be larger than the gap to the right end of the opening.

  Here, the “opening length of the specific region 343 (special selection port)” means the length of the specific region 343 (special selection port) in the rotation direction at the peripheral edge of the rotary sorter 294, and the “normal region” The “opening length of 344 (normal selection port)” means the length in the rotation direction of the normal region 344 (normal selection port) at the periphery of the rotary sorter 294.

  By the way, even if the game ball that has flowed down the guide passage 340 reaches the inflow port 347, the inflow port 347 communicates with the specific region 343 (special selection port) or the normal region 344 (normal selection port) in the rotating body 297. Stays at that location, and when the inflow port 347 and one of the regions (selection ports) 343 and 344 face each other as the rotating body 297 rotates, the specific region 343 (special selection port) or the normal region 344 Accepted (normally selected). As a result, by making the rotational speed of the rotary sorter 294 constant, the probability of accepting the specific area 343 (special selection port) on the accessory is theoretically 1/10 (on the accessory) The acceptance probability to the normal accessory driving mechanism 334 is 9/10). Accordingly, the probability of acceptance into the specific area 343 (special selection port) is actually 1/10, but at first glance (hereinafter referred to as “apparent acceptance probability of the specific area 343”). It has a visual effect that it can be seen, and in turn, it has the effect of promoting the player's willingness to play. Then, the game balls received in the specific area 343 (special selection port) flow out of the machine from the specific exit 360, and the game media received in the normal area 344 (normal selection port) flow out of the normal port 361. To do. Further, based on the fact that the game ball has flowed out from the specific area 343, a special game (big hit game) that is advantageous to the player is generated. In the present embodiment, the time (rotation cycle) required for one rotation of the rotating body 297 is 10800 [ms / rotation]. The specific area 343 or the normal area 344 faces the inflow port 347 when the specific area 343 or the normal area 344 is at a specific position such as 46.5 minutes (a position slightly above the left). .

  On the other hand, the opening area width (opening width) of the specific area 343 is formed larger than the opening area width (opening width) of the normal area 344. More specifically, a wall 3431 that closes a part of the opening of the specific region 343 is formed at the peripheral edge of the rotary sorter 294. By this wall 3431, the boundary from the left end of the opening of the specific area 343 to the right end of the opening of the normal area 344 immediately after the specific area 343 is changed from the left end of the opening of any one of the normal areas 344 to the normal area 344. The size is almost the same as the size up to the right end of the opening of the normal region 344 after the first. Further, the normal region 344 is formed so that the opening length and the opening region width are substantially the same size. That is, the wall 3431 not only narrows the “special selection port”, but also places the game ball in the “normal selection port” (that is, the “normal selection port” one after) adjacent to the direction opposite to the direction of the accessory rotation. It functions as a “normal wall” for acceptance.

  Here, the “opening region width (opening width)” means the length in the rotation direction on the rotation center side (diameter inside) with respect to the peripheral portion of the rotary sorting device 294.

  Thus, although the opening length of the specific region 343 (special selection port) and the opening length of the normal region 344 (normal selection port) are substantially the same size, the opening region width of the specific region 343 is the normal region 344. Since it is larger than the opening area width, the ease of accepting the game ball into the specific area 343 (special selection port) is the apparent acceptance probability (1/6) of the game ball into the specific region 343 (special selection port). ) Is more visible (but the theoretical acceptance probability is 1/10). Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the opening depth (radial depth) of the specific region 343 is formed larger than the opening depth (radial depth) of the normal region 344. Thereby, a further visual effect that the specific region 343 (special selection port) is more easily accepted than the normal region 344 (normal selection port) is exhibited, and the player's willingness to play is promoted.

  In addition, a game ball carry-in device 380 is interposed in the guide passage 340 so that the game ball flowing down the guide passage 340 can be lifted to the inlet 347 of the rotary sorter 294. . The game ball carry-in device 380 has a carry-in piece 341 that allows only one game ball to reach the inflow port 347, and a carry-in piece 341 that is lowered to a position facing the guide passage 340 so that a game ball can be received, And a distribution device drive mechanism 336 (see FIG. 36) for raising the game ball held in the carry-in piece 341 and rotating it between the charging position where it can flow into the inflow port 347. Yes. The distribution device drive mechanism 336 includes a solenoid 400, a plunger 401, a link arm 402, and a distribution device drive sensor 403. The game ball in the carry-in piece 341 is temporarily stopped by the carry-in piece 341 and flows into the inflow port 347 at a predetermined timing. That is, the carry-in piece 341 also has a function as a stopping device for temporarily stopping the game ball at the carry-in piece 341. Note that the game ball in the carry-in piece 341 flows into the specific area 343 when the specific area 343 enters the inflow port 347 at a timing when the specific area 343 is at a position of 46.5 minutes, and a big hit game is generated.

  Then, the game ball carry-in device 380 rotates the link arm 402 about the link shaft 404 as a rotation axis by the movement of the plunger 401 of the solenoid 400. The link arm 402 slides the carry-in piece 341 back and forth by a link mechanism. In this way, the reciprocating motion of the plunger 401 is converted into the reciprocating motion of the loading piece 341 and can be displaced from the receiving position to the loading position. Note that the plunger 401 protrudes leftward when not energized, and the carry-in piece 341 is kept at the closing position via the link arm 402. Further, whether the carry-in piece 341 is displaced to the receiving position or the loading position can be detected by the sorting device drive sensor 403. That is, if the link arm 402 is detected by the sorting device drive sensor 403, the carry-in piece 341 is located at the loading position, while if the link arm 402 is not detected by the sorting device drive sensor 403, the carry-in piece 341 is loaded. The piece 341 is located at the receiving position.

  A discharge port 348 that discharges a game ball that does not fit in the carry-in piece 341 when the carry-in piece 341 is in the loading position is formed to open at the end of the guide passage 340, and the game ball that has flowed into the discharge port 348 Flows down from the third outflow passage 389 to the sorting device discharge passage 274 (see FIG. 17). In addition, when a plurality of game balls flow down the guide passage 340 one after another, only one game ball is accommodated in the carry-in piece 341 even when the carry-in piece 341 is in the receiving position, and other game balls are carried in It contacts the game ball contained in the piece 341 and stays in the guide passage 340, resumes rolling as the carry-in piece 341 rises, and flows into the discharge port 348. A game ball detection means 386 is provided in the middle of the third outflow path 389 through which the game ball flowing out from the discharge port 348 flows down, and flows into the discharge port 348 by this game ball detection means 386 (that is, a specific A game ball that has not won any of the area 343 and the normal area 344 is detected and counted.

  As described above, since the carry-in piece 341 is provided in the game ball carry-in device 380, a game that can be received in the specific area 343 of the rotator 297 even if the number of game balls to be won in the upper large prize opening 141 is increased. The number of spheres can be limited. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that is fair to all without acting favorably for an advanced player having a skill capable of winning a large amount of game balls in the upper prize winning opening 141.

  The rotating body driving means 405 that rotates the rotating shaft 364 includes a rotating body motor 369 that generates a rotating force that rotates the rotating body 297, a rotating drive gear 368 that transmits power of the rotating body motor 369, a rotating shaft 364, and a rotating body. A rotating body back cover 382 that supports the motor 369 and the middle frame 383 and rotatably supports the rotating shaft 364 of the rotating body 297 is provided. A rail-shaped rotational position detection plate 363 is provided on the back surface of the rotating body 297 so as to protrude. The rotational position detection plate 363 is detected by a rotational position sensor 362 disposed substantially at the center of the rotational body case 342, whereby the rotational position of the rotational body 297 is specified.

  Note that the rotary sorter 294 has a configuration for decorating the rotating body 297 with light emitting means provided therein. In other words, the decorative plate 366 and the LED substrate 365 are disposed on the back side of the rotating body 297 so as to overlap each other in the gap with the rotating body case 342. The decorative plate 366 is a disc body having a slightly smaller diameter than the rotating body 297 and formed of a light-transmitting plastic. The LED substrate 365 is a substantially circular substrate having a substantially same diameter as the rotating body 297 and having a plurality of LEDs disposed thereon. Further, an LED substrate 381, which is a substantially arc-shaped substrate on which a plurality of LEDs are arranged, is attached to the back surface of the middle frame 383. Further, three window portions 367 formed of a plastic transparent plate are provided, and the player can visually recognize the light emission mode inside the rotating body case 342 through these window portions 367. In particular, the three window portions 367 and the decorative plate 366 are provided with uneven surfaces so that the light emitted from the respective LEDs is diffusely reflected, and according to the rotational drive of the rotator 297, The light emission mode (irradiation mode of the rotating body 297) inside changes. In addition, the plurality of LEDs arranged on the semicircular arc on the LED board 381 has its light emitting mode changed from the player on the front side through the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 formed on the outer peripheral portion of the rotating body 297. Visible.

  Next, the prize opening unit 499 having the normal symbol start port 96 and the attacker device 98 and the special start port unit 530 having the normal electric accessory 81 and the special symbol start port 82 will be described.

[About the winning prize unit]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 33 is a front view showing the prize opening unit, FIG. 34 is a perspective view showing the prize opening unit from the upper right front, and FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG. is there.

  The winning a prize opening unit 499 includes a normal symbol starting port 96 disposed so as to protrude from the board surface of the game board 5 (see FIG. 3) to the player side, and a normal winning device disposed below the normal symbol starting port 96. 502, a distribution projection 507 that protrudes from the bottom of the normal winning device 502 to the player side, and an attacker device 98 that is disposed below the distribution projection 507. Has been.

  Here, the normal symbol start port 96 is a gate-type start port through which a game ball flowing down the game area 37 (see FIG. 3) can pass, and inside the normal symbol start port 96 there is a game ball at the normal symbol start port 96. A first start port sensor 317 is provided for detecting the passage. The normal lottery is performed based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port sensor 317. Further, on both the left and right sides of the normal symbol starting port 96, an arc-shaped entry preventing member 512 is extended obliquely downward, and the game ball passing outside the normal symbol starting port 96 is distributed. Rolling toward the projection 507 is prevented. That is, only the game balls that have passed through the normal symbol starting port 96 can reach the sorting protrusion 507.

  The normal winning device 502 includes a normal winning opening 500 that opens to the surface of the game board 5 and a winning passage 501 that communicates with the normal winning opening 500 and extends to the back side of the gaming board 5. It is possible to win a game ball in the winning path 501 from the normal winning opening 500. In addition, when a game ball wins the normal winning opening 500, it is detected by a win sensor (not shown), and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out based on this.

  The distribution protrusion 507 has an upper surface inclined portion 506 that is formed with a slight downward slope toward the game board 5 side (ordinary winning port 500 side), and a substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the upper surface inclined portion 506. The game ball that has fallen on the right side can be guided to the normal winning opening 500 along the upper surface inclined portion 506, and the game ball that has dropped to the vicinity of the left end or the right end of the upper surface inclined portion 506 is It can be discharged from. The distribution projection 507 is normally disposed directly below the symbol starting port 96 so that the maximum lateral width of the distribution projection 507 is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the game ball, and the lateral width becomes narrower toward the tip side. It is formed into a tapered shape in plan view (home base shape as a whole).

  The attacker device 98 is disposed below the sorting projection 507, and closes the horizontally long lower prize-winning port 83 and the lower side big prize-winning port 83 that allow a large amount of game balls to be won, and the lower end. An opening / closing member 99 supported so as to be rotatable in the front-rear direction with the portion as a rotation axis, a closed position for driving the opening / closing member 99 to close the lower side big prize opening 83, and an open position for opening the lower side big prize opening 83 An attacker drive mechanism 339 (see FIG. 36). In addition, a count sensor 319 (see FIG. 36) for detecting a game ball won in the lower side large winning opening 83 is provided inside the lower large winning opening 83. Based on the detection of the game balls by the count sensor 319, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out, and the number of game balls won in the lower large winning opening 83 is counted.

  Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 35, the lower surface 513 of the distribution projection 507 facing the upper surface of the opening / closing member 99 is formed in an upward gradient toward the game board 5 side. Thereby, the distance between the upper end of the opening / closing member 99 and the lower surface 513 of the sorting projection 507 can be made substantially constant regardless of the rotation position of the opening / closing member 99, and consequently the upper end of the opening / closing member 99. It is possible to prevent the game ball from being sandwiched between the lower surface 513 of the sorting projection 507 and so-called “ball biting”.

  Since the sorting projection 507 does not include a movable mechanism, even when the attacker device 98 having the attacker driving mechanism 339 is provided below the sorting projection 507, the sorting projection 507 can be arranged close to each other. The length from the lower side large winning opening 83 to the normal symbol starting port 96 can be made relatively short.

  By the way, the normal symbol starting port 96, the normal winning device 502, the sorting projection 507, and the attacker device 98 are attached to a common base plate 510 and integrally configured as one unit. In addition, a nail through hole 511 for allowing the obstacle nail 508 provided in the game board 5 to be inserted is formed between the normal symbol starting port 96 and the normal winning port 500 in the base plate 510. That is, the obstacle nail 508 provided on the game board 5 can be arranged inside the unit, although the normal symbol starting port 96 and the normal winning device 502 are integrally formed as one unit. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 33, the obstacle nail 508 is disposed between the normal symbol starting port 96 and the normal winning device 502, and swings by changing the rolling direction of the game ball that has passed through the normal symbol starting port 96. The dropping points on the minute projection 507 are dispersed. In particular, in this example, the obstacle nail 508 is composed of a right obstacle nail 508a and a left obstacle nail 508b arranged side by side in the left-right direction. When the reference line is used, the right obstacle nail 508a and the left obstacle nail 508b are biased toward one side so that the distances from the reference line to the right obstacle nail 508a and the left obstacle nail 508b are different from each other. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the rolling direction of the game ball from being changed significantly by passing the game ball between the obstacle nails 508. That is, almost all of the game balls that have passed through the normal symbol starting port 96 can be dropped onto the upper surface of the sorting projection 507. In addition, the game balls that have passed through the normal symbol starting port 96 can collide with the respective obstacle nails 508 in order, and the rolling direction can be reliably changed.

  The base plate 510 extends in the left-right direction, and on the right side, a winning opening 514 that opens upward is formed. In addition, a case member 516 is attached to the back surface of the base plate 510, and an attacker driving mechanism 339 is accommodated in the case member 516, and a game ball won in the lower large winning opening 83 is flowed out. A guide passage (not shown) for guiding to (not shown) is formed. Further, on the upper surface of the case member 516, a feeding passage 517 is provided for sending the game ball won in the winning passage 501 of the normal winning device 502 to a passage in the case member 516 (a passage different from the guide passage). ing.

  In this way, in the prize opening unit 499, when the game ball flowing down the game area 37 passes through the normal symbol start port 96, it is detected by the first start port sensor 317, and the game ball has passed through the normal symbol start port 96. Based on this, a normal lottery is executed. The rolling direction of the game ball that has passed through the normal symbol start port 96 is changed by the obstacle nail 508 disposed below the normal symbol start port 96. Also, an ordinary winning device 502 is provided below the obstacle nail 508. When a game ball wins the normal winning device 502, it is detected by a winning sensor (not shown) and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. .

  A distribution projection 507 is provided below the normal winning device 502 so as to protrude toward the player, and the distribution projection 507 is directed toward the game board 5 side (ordinary winning port 500 side). Since the upper surface inclined portion 506 formed with a slight downward slope is provided, it is possible to guide the game ball that has dropped onto the upper surface inclined portion 506 to the normal winning opening 500 along the upper surface inclined portion 506. In particular, since the width of the distribution projection 507 is substantially the same as the diameter of the game ball, it is guided from the side of the upper surface inclined portion 506 to the normal winning opening 500 along the upper surface inclined portion 506 (deviation). ). In other words, the game ball that has dropped to the substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the upper surface inclined portion 506 is guided to the normal winning opening 500 along the upper surface inclined portion 506, while the vicinity of the left end portion or the right end portion of the upper surface inclined portion 506 ( In other words, the game ball that has dropped to the vicinity of the corner portion is discharged from the side of the upper inclined portion 506.

[Special start unit]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 29 is a front view showing the special starter unit, FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing the special starter unit from the upper right front, and FIG. 31 shows a state in which the components of the special starter unit are separated from the upper left rear. 32 is a perspective view, and FIG. 32 is a cut perspective view showing a state where the special start port unit is cut in the vertical direction.

  The special start port unit 530 has a special symbol start port 82 opened to the board surface of the game board 5 (see FIG. 3), and a winning path that extends to the back side of the game board 5 in communication with the special symbol start port 82. 531 (see FIG. 30), a receiving device supported slidably between an immersion position located in the winning path 531 and a protruding position protruding from the special symbol starting port 82 toward the player. The stop guiding member 535 and the ordinary accessory driving mechanism 334 (see FIG. 36) for sliding the receiving guide member 535 in the front-rear direction are configured.

  The winning path 531 is formed in the winning device casing 538, and the front opening portion thereof serves as a special symbol starting port 82. The special symbol starting port 82 is formed in a convex shape so that the width on the lower side is wider than that on the upper side.

  The receiving guide member 535 is a tongue-like member having an inclined surface 534 formed in a downward slope toward the back side of the game board 5 (back side of the winning path 531), and the game area 37 (see FIG. 3). ) Is received at the protruding position, and the received game ball is guided to the special symbol starting port 82. A projection 536 is formed upward at the tip of the receiving guide member 535.

  Thus, in the special start port unit 530, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the immersive position, it is impossible to receive the game ball that is accommodated in the winning path 531 and flows down the game area 37. That is, the special symbol starting port 82 cannot enter the game ball (rejected ball mode). On the other hand, when winning in the normal lottery, the normal accessory driving mechanism 334 is controlled, and the receiving guide member 535 is displaced from the retracted position to the protruding position (permissive ball mode). In this state, the tongue-shaped receiving guide member 535 protrudes from the special symbol start port 82 toward the player, and can receive the game ball flowing down the game area 37. Then, the game ball received by the inclined surface 534 of the receiving guide member 535 is guided to the special symbol starting port 82 according to the inclined surface 534. In other words, the game ball can be awarded to the special symbol start opening 82. At this time, even if the receiving guide member 535 moves, the protrusion 536 protrudes upward at the top end of the upper surface of the receiving guide member 535 in order to ensure that the game ball wins the special symbol starting port 82 according to the inclined surface 534. The game ball is prevented from spilling from the tip of the receiving guide member 535. Further, since the game ball rolls toward the special symbol starting port 82 side, even if the inclination degree on the inclined surface 534 of the receiving guide member 535 is relatively gentle, it is smooth toward the special symbol starting port 82. Can be guided to.

  In addition, since the inclined surface 534 of the receiving guide member 535 is formed with a slight downward slope toward the back side of the game board 5, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the protruding position, The substantial opening area of the special symbol start port 82 becomes wider than that. That is, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the immersive position, the tip of the receiving guide member 535, which is the highest position among the receiving guide members 535, is located near the special symbol starting port 82, The upper space (relatively narrow opening) is a substantial opening portion of the special symbol start opening 82. On the other hand, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the protruding position, the central portion or the root portion of the receiving guide member 535 that is lower than the tip of the receiving guide member 535 is located near the special symbol start port 82, A space above that portion (a relatively wide frontage) is a substantial opening of the special symbol starter 82. Therefore, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the protruding position, the opening area is increased and the winning of the game ball is ensured. On the other hand, when the receiving guide member 535 is in the immersed position, the opening area is reduced and the game area 37 ( The jumping of the game ball due to the rebound in FIG. 3) can be suppressed.

  By the way, the receiving guide member 535 has a pointed shape with a pointed tip toward the player so that the number of locations where the ball is bitten is extremely small. Therefore, when the tip of the receiving guide member 535 comes into contact with the center of the game ball, there is still a possibility of biting the ball, but even if the tip of the receiving guide member 535 is slightly from the center of the game ball. In the case of deviation, a force in a direction away from the tip of the receiving guide member 535 is applied to the game ball, and the game ball is not pinched. Since the protrusion 536 is also formed in a shape that exhibits a convex isosceles triangle toward the special symbol start port 82 in a plan view, the game ball can be slightly displaced from the center if it touches the game ball. Is not pinched. Further, the projection 536 reduces the opening area of the special symbol starting port 82 when the receiving guide member 535 is in the immersive position, so that the game ball is moved to the special symbol starting port 82 when the receiving guiding member 535 is in the immersive position. It is possible to prevent entry.

  In addition, wall portions 539 are erected from the left and right edge portions of the receiving guide member 535, and these wall portions 539 extend toward the back side of the winning path 531. According to this, the game ball received by the receiving guide member 535 can be guided toward the special symbol starting port 82 side without being discharged (dropped) from the left and right sides of the receiving guide member 535. . In addition, the receiving guide member 535 can be formed in a flat plate shape. As a result, even if the heights of the special symbol start port 82 and the winning path 531 are relatively low, the receiving guiding member 535 can be connected to the winning path 531. It is possible to provide a space for receiving the game ball to be housed inside and above the receiving guide member 535. In addition, since the front-end | tip part of the receiving guidance member 535 is formed in the flat shape which does not have the wall part 539 in a right-and-left edge part, even when a player sees the receiving guidance member 535 from right and left diagonally forward. The behavior of the game ball rolling on the receiving guide member 535 can be clearly seen. Further, by omitting the wall portion of the tip portion, the frontage side opening in the left-right direction is widened, and when the receiving guide member 535 returns to the immersive position, the game ball placed on the receiving guide member 535 is placed. Can be easily discharged from the distal end portion of the receiving guide member 535.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 32, an outlet 541 through which a game ball won in the special winning device 532 flows out from the winning passage 531 is formed in the center portion of the bottom surface of the winning device casing 538, and the receiving guiding member Between the pair of wall portions 539 on the rear side of 535, an opening portion 542 that always communicates with the outflow port 541 is formed regardless of the position of the receiving guide member 535. Therefore, not only when the receiving guide member 535 is in the protruding position, but also when the receiving guide member 535 is in the immersive position before the game ball flows out of the winning path 531, the opening portion 542 and the flow The game ball can be discharged through the outlet 541. In particular, a movable guide wall 543 that guides a winning game ball to the outlet 541 is provided between the pair of walls 539 behind the opening 542, and the movable guide wall 543 has a position where the receiving guide member 535 protrudes. It is comprised so that it may be located in the back vicinity of the outflow port 541 at the time. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the game ball that has won the special symbol starting port 82 from entering the rear of the movable guide wall 543 and to drop naturally toward the outlet 541. In addition, since the movable guide wall 543 is provided horizontally between the pair of wall portions 539, the pair of wall portions 539 can be supported in parallel and deformation of the wall portion 539 can be suppressed. The outflow port 541 is provided with a game ball detection means 553 (second start port sensor 318) for detecting a game ball passing through the outflow port 541. It is detected that the game ball has won.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 30, the winning device casing 538 is divided into an opaque front case portion 545 and a rear case portion 546 made of a light transmissive member, and is formed on the front surface of the front case portion 545. The flange portion 547 is fixed to the board surface of the game board 5. That is, three attachment holes 557 are formed in the flange portion 547, and screws or the like (not shown) are inserted into the attachment holes 557 and screwed to the game board 5, so that the board surface of the game board 5 is formed. Mounted. Inside the rear case portion 546, a guide portion that restricts sliding of the pair of wall portions 539 in the front-rear direction is formed so as to sandwich the wall portion 539, and the receiving guide member 535 is smoothly slid. Making it possible.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, a solenoid 548 that transmits power by the transmission mechanism 540 and functions as a drive source of the receiving guide member 535 is accommodated in the rear case portion 546. The solenoid 548 is disposed so that the tip of the plunger 549 faces the player side. An arm member 551 is provided between the plunger 549 and the wall portion 539 so that the reciprocating linear motion of the plunger 549 is reversed and transmitted to the wall portion 539.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 30, a braking gate member 554 formed so as to protrude from the board surface of the game board 5 to the player side is provided above the special symbol starting port 82. The brake gate member 554 allows the game ball flowing down the game area 37 to pass while being braked, and is set so that the inner diameter is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball. According to this, since the game ball that has passed through the brake gate member 554 and the momentum is suppressed is placed on the upper surface of the receiving guide member 535, the game ball can be settled on the receiving guide member 535. Therefore, it is possible to reliably guide the game ball dropped on the receiving guide member 535 toward the special symbol starting port 82. Further, the impact received by the receiving guide member 535 is weakened, and the receiving guide member 535 can be prevented from being deformed or damaged.

  A pair of entry preventing members 558 extend obliquely downward on both the left and right sides of the brake gate member 554. The entry preventing member 558 prevents the game ball passing outside the braking gate member 554 from rolling toward the receiving guide member 535, and according to this, the passing ball has passed through the braking gate member 554. Only the game ball can be placed on the receiving guide member 535, and the game ball received by the receiving guide member 535 is not affected by another game ball that does not pass through the braking gate member 554, that is, a game ball with strong momentum. It can be prevented from being played.

  According to the pachinko machine 1 of the present example having the above-described physical configuration, the lower portion of the opening 124 is partitioned by the partition plate 40, and the game ball flowing down the game area 37 passes through the opening 124. Since the entry to the stage 20 is prevented, the game ball that has entered from the opening 124 comes into contact with another game ball that rolls on the stage 20 to change the trajectory of the game ball, and in the distribution process It is possible to suppress the possibility that the player feels uncomfortable by influencing. In addition, since the game balls do not flow into the stage 20 from other than the warp inlet 63, it is possible to reduce the variation in the winning rate of the game balls via the stage 20. That is, when a game ball flows from the opening 124, the rate at which the game ball flows into the stage 20 increases, and the route through which the game ball flows into the stage 20 increases. Therefore, the game store determines the winning probability of the game ball via the stage 20. Although it tends to be difficult to control and results in destabilization of the profits of the game shop, according to the pachinko machine 1 of this example, in order to prevent the game ball from entering the stage from the opening 124, such a problem occurs. Can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present example, the partition plate 40 is erected on the player side of the stage 20, blocks the lower part of the opening 124 of the center accessory 91, and prevents the game ball from flowing out. The game ball that has flowed into the stage 20 does not flow out of the stage 20 in a very short time, and the player can be shown to the player how the game ball rolls on the stage 20.

  In addition, in order to prevent the partition plate 40 from flowing out from the opening 124, the game ball that has flowed into the stage 20 always flows out from the specific outlet 24 or the normal outlet 25, and the game ball flows to the specific outlet 24 at a predetermined rate. The ball enters and flows down the specific outflow path 26. Therefore, the variation in the probability of entering the normal symbol starting port 96 is reduced. Since the game ball that has flowed into the stage 20 does not deviate from the opening 124, the unwilling situation for the player is reduced, and the player can enjoy the game with confidence without causing the player to feel distrust. be able to.

  Further, according to the pachinko machine 1 of this example, since the partition plate 40 is a plate-like member, there is almost no risk of failure or damage, and even if the partition plate 40 is erected on the player side of the stage 20, a game It will not be a burden on the store. The player can tackle the game with peace of mind because the game is not interrupted by a failure caused by the partition plate 40 or an accident occurs.

  Further, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present example, the partition plate 40 is erected at the lower portion of the opening 124 and functions as a wall at the lower end portion of the front edge of the opening 124, but is formed of a translucent material. Therefore, the visibility of the stage 20 and the effect display device 115 located in the back is not impaired. In other words, since the partition plate 40 does not obstruct the field of view and the game is not hindered, the possibility that the player feels dissatisfied can be reduced.

  Moreover, since the upper part of the partition plate 40 is open, it is not necessary to remove the partition plate 40 when performing maintenance such as cleaning and adjustment inside the center accessory 91, and the maintenance work can be performed smoothly. Since the partition plate 40 is a substantially oval member, there is no protruding portion such as a corner upward, and the occurrence of an accident in which a maintenance operator is injured or damages the partition plate 40 can be suppressed.

  Furthermore, according to the pachinko machine 1 of the present example, the partition plate 40 is formed of a translucent material, and the visual effect around the stage 20 can be enhanced by changing the transmitted light. it can. In this example, a part of the partition plate 40 is thin in the vicinity of the outflow portion 62, so that the player can pay attention to the outflow portion 62.

[Electric configuration of pachinko machine]
Next, the electrical configuration of such a pachinko machine 1 will be described in detail. FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 according to this embodiment.

The pachinko machine 1 is mainly configured to include a main board 780 and a peripheral board 781.
Here, the main substrate 780 is
-Detection of game balls.
-Judgment processing (lottery processing) related to winning for each type.
-Fluctuation display control for special symbols and normal symbols.
・ Control for paying out prize balls (payout control).
It is a part that performs various controls so that the game progresses according to a predetermined rule.

On the other hand, the peripheral substrate 781 includes:
・ Lighting control of production lamp.
・ Sound control.
-Display control of production images.
In other words, it is a part that adds various effects to the game progressed by the main board 780, thereby improving the interest of the game.

[Main board]
The main board 780 includes a main control board 765 and a payout control board 775. Among them, the main control board 765 includes a main control MPU 765a as a microprocessor, a main control I / O port 765b as an input / output device (I / O device), the inspection connector 218, and a RAM described later. A clear switch 769 and the like are provided.

  Here, the main control MPU 765a includes a ROM as a read-only memory in which a control program and various commands relating to the progress of the game are stored, a RAM as a readable / writable memory in which stored data is updated each time, and those It has a watchdog timer for monitoring the operation (system), various functions for preventing fraud, and so on. The main control MPU 765a includes the first start port sensor 317, the second start port sensor 318, the count sensor 319, the winning port sensor 330, the V winning sensor 331, the discharge sensor 313, and the like. Detection signals from various sensors are input via the main control I / O port 765b.

  That is, by executing a control program stored in the ROM based on such a detection signal, an ordinary accessory driving mechanism 334, a prize winning opening / closing mechanism 335, a sorting device driving mechanism 336, an attacker driving mechanism 339, and the like. As a result, drive signals are appropriately output to various actuators, whereby various games played in the pachinko machine 1 proceed according to predetermined rules. As will be described later, the main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 controls the display of the special symbol display 332, the normal symbol display 333, and the normal holding ball lamp 323, the peripheral board 781, and the payout. The control board 775 also outputs a signal (effect command, payout command) indicating the progress of the game.

  In this embodiment, the main control MPU 765a outputs various information (game information) related to the game to the external terminal board 371 via the main control I / O port 765b. The external terminal board 371 is a part connected to a hall computer (not shown), so that the hall computer can grasp and monitor the progress of the game of the pachinko machine 1.

  As will be described later, the main control MPU 765a transmits a command regarding a display mode of the effect image displayed on the effect display device 115 to the peripheral board 781 described later via the main control I / O port 765b. .

  The main control board 765 is supplied with power from a power supply board (not shown). The power supply board includes an electric double layer capacitor (hereinafter simply referred to as “capacitor”) as a backup power supply that supplies power to the main control board 765 for a predetermined time even when the power is shut off. The main control MPU 765a can store various types of information in its built-in RAM in the power-off process even when the power is shut off, as will be described in detail later, by the power supplied by the capacitor. The stored information is erased (cleared) from the built-in RAM when the RAM clear switch 769 of the main control board 765 is operated when the power is turned on.

  On the other hand, the payout control board 775 is a part that outputs a drive signal to the ball payout device 170 based on a payout command from the main control board 765. The payout control board 775 is largely a payout control MPU775a as a microprocessor, and an I / O. A payout control I / O port 775b as a device, an error LED display 777, an error release switch 778, a ball removal switch 779, and the like are provided.

  The payout control board 775 is connected to the ball payout device 170 via the payout relay board 108, and commands (drive signals) are exchanged with the ball payout apparatus 170 via the payout relay board 108. The ball payout device 170 includes a payout motor 172 that rotates to cut out game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 into various ball guide passages or various ball discharge passages by a ball cutout member (not shown), a ball cutout member A rotation angle switch 106 for detecting a rotation position (not shown), a counting switch 105 for counting the number of game balls actually paid out, and the like are provided.

  Here, the payout control MPU 775a includes a ROM as a read-only memory storing a control program and various commands for paying out a game ball (prize ball) to the player according to the progress of the game, and storage. It includes a RAM as a readable / writable memory in which data is updated each time, various functions for preventing fraud, and the like. The payout control MPU 775a receives a payout command related to payout from the main control board 765 and an operation signal (detection signal) of the RAM clear switch 769 via the payout control I / O port 775b. It has become. That is, the control program stored in the ROM is executed based on the payout command received in this manner, so that a drive signal is output to the payout motor 172. As a result, according to the received payout command, Game balls will be paid out for the number of prize balls shown. In this embodiment, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 is used for the winning ball to be paid out to the player when the winning ball sensor 330 detects the entry of the game ball into the center accessory 91. Control over the payout of the game ball so that more prize balls are paid out when the count sensor 319 detects the winning of the game ball to the lower large winning opening 83 than the number It has become.

  In the same payout control MPU 775a, when the ball removal switch 779 is operated, the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged (ball removal) based on this operation signal (detection signal). Therefore, a drive signal to the payout motor 172 is also output. Furthermore, when a rent request signal from the prepaid card unit 1a is input via the interface board 252 described above, a drive signal to the payout motor 172 is also output based on the rent request signal.

  The payout control MPU 775a transmits various commands related to the state of the pachinko machine 1 to the main control board 765 via the payout control I / O port 775b, or fills up the switch 107. When the detection signal is input, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 172 is stopped based on this detection signal, or the number of game balls actually paid out is calculated and is used as the payout control I / Or output to the external terminal board 371 via the O port 775b. Thereby, the hall computer can grasp the total number of game balls paid out from the pachinko machine 1.

  When the prepaid card unit 1 a is connected to the interface board 252, a game ball launch permission signal from the prepaid card unit 1 a is input to the above-described launch control board 372 via the interface board 252 and the payout control board 775. It is like that. When this launch permission signal is input, the launch control board 372 becomes ready to launch a game ball by the launch device 194 described above. As a result, when the operation handle 32 is operated, a detection signal from a touch sensor (not shown) provided on the operation handle 32 is input to the launch control board 372, so that the game is played by the launch device 194. A ball is fired. That is, when the operation handle 32 is operated, the detection signal from the full switch 107 is input to the payout control MPU 775a, and the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 172 is stopped. In addition, the game ball is launched by the launching device 194. In this way, the game ball launched from the launching device 194 is guided along the guide rail 78 to the launch opening 78a formed above the game area 37, and is driven toward the game area 37 from this launch opening. .

  Power is supplied to the payout control board 775 from a power supply board (not shown) in the same manner as the main control board 765. The power supply board includes a capacitor that supplies power to the payout control board 775 for a predetermined time even when the power is shut off. With the power supplied from this capacitor, the payout control MPU 775a can store various payout information related to payout in its built-in RAM even when the power is shut off. The stored payout information is erased (cleared) from the built-in RAM when the RAM clear switch 769 of the main control board 765 is operated when the power is turned on.

[About peripheral boards]
As shown in FIG. 36, the peripheral board 781 includes a sub-integrated board 763 and a liquid crystal control board 758.

  The sub-integrated board 763 includes a sub-integrated MPU 763a as a microprocessor, a sub-integrated ROM 763b that stores various processing programs and various commands, a sound source IC 763c that performs high-quality sound, and music that the sound source IC 763c refers to. And a sound ROM 763d in which sound information such as sound effects is stored. That is, when the production command is received from the main control board 765, the sub-integrated MPU 763a executes the control program based on the command, thereby sending a lighting signal to the decoration lamp 394 which is a lamp on the outer frame side. Or a lighting signal is output to the prize ball lamp 396. Further, a lighting signal is output to the effect lamp 395 that is a decorative lamp of the game board 5 or a gradation lighting signal is output to the gradation lamp 397 via the lamp driving board 46.

  Further, the effect command from the main control board 765 received by the sub integrated MPU 763a is output to the sound source IC 763c and the liquid crystal control board 758. Thus, the sound source IC 763c reads sound information from the sound ROM 763d based on the effect command output from the sub-integrated MPU 763a, so that music, sound effects, etc. adapted to various effects are output from the speakers 18, 57 as sound outputs. Will come to be.

  On the other hand, the liquid crystal control board 758 includes a liquid crystal control MPU 758a as a microprocessor, a liquid crystal control ROM 758b that stores various processing programs and various commands, and a VDP (abbreviation of video display processor) 758c that controls display of the effect display device 115. An image ROM 758d for storing various images to be displayed on the effect display device 115.

  When the liquid crystal control MPU 758a receives the effect command described above from the sub-integrated board 763, the liquid crystal control MPU 758a controls the VDP 758c based on the effect command. The VDP 758c reads out an image from the image ROM 758d and controls display of the effect display device 115. If the liquid crystal control MPU 758a is operating normally, it outputs an operation signal to that effect to the sub-integrated board 763.

[Functional configuration of main board and peripheral board]
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 37 is a functional block diagram schematically showing functional configurations of the main board and the peripheral board.

  As shown in FIG. 37, the main board 780 includes a normal symbol per-determining random number extracting means 601, a normal symbol success / failure determining means 602, a first holding means 603, a first hold releasing means 604, and a normal symbol display. Control means 605, normal symbol hold display control means 606, normal hit game execution means 607, and advantageous game execution means 608 are provided. In addition, a special symbol per-determination random number extraction unit 611, a special symbol success / failure determination unit 612, a special symbol display control unit 615, a big hit game execution unit 617, and a small hit game execution unit 618 are provided. Further, a command transmission unit 620, a discharge determination unit 621, a winning determination unit 622, and a prize ball payout unit 623 are provided.

  Here, the normal symbol per-determining random number extraction means 601 determines whether or not a game ball has entered the normal symbol start port 96 based on the output signal from the first start port sensor 317. At the same time (open mouth determination means), a random number is extracted when it is determined that the ball has been entered. The extracted random numbers are held by the first holding means 603 up to a first predetermined number (for example, four), and the normal symbol variation display control is put on hold. On the other hand, such a hold state is released by the first hold release unit 604 when a predetermined release condition (for example, that the previous variable display control for the normal symbol has been completed) is satisfied. Then, the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 determines whether or not the normal winning (long winning or short winning) is won based on the released random number (normal symbol lottery).

  However, in this embodiment, the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 changes the display mode of the effect image displayed on the effect display device 115 according to the determination result of whether or not the normal winning is won. It also functions as a part to be determined in the substrate 780. Then, the display mode determined internally in this manner is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 333 by the normal symbol display control means 605 for a predetermined fluctuation time. The number of holds by the first holding means 603 is displayed on the normal symbol holding ball lamp 323 (LED 84) by the normal symbol holding display control means 606. In addition, when the lottery result by the normal symbol winning / determining means 602 is a normal winning, the normal winning game executing means 607 controls the driving of the normal accessory driving mechanism 334 so that the game ball is awarded to the special symbol starting port 82. The ordinary electric accessory 81 is operated so as to be possible.

  Further, the advantageous game execution means 608 variably sets the probability of accepting a game ball to the special symbol start port 82 to a higher probability when a predetermined condition (for example, that the big hit game has ended) is satisfied. To do. More specifically, it will be described later whether or not it is in a high-probability advantageous state or a low-probability advantageous state (in this embodiment, a high-probability advantageous state or a low-probability advantageous state in the short-time gaming state when the time-shortening function is activated). Is determined based on the result of determination by the random number extraction means 611 for determining per special symbol, and when it is determined that it is in the advantageous state (a general term for a high-probability advantageous state and a low-probability advantageous state described later) It outputs to the hit game execution means 607. As a result, the normal hit game execution means 607 operates a so-called opening extension function (time reduction function). If the short function is activated at this time, the probability of winning the normal hit in the normal symbol lottery does not change, but the operating time of the long hit described later (for example, “5700 ms”) is always adopted as the operating time of the normal electric accessory 81. At the same time, when the result of the normal symbol lottery is lost and the reach effect is not performed, the fluctuation time is longer than that in the normal game state in which the time reduction function does not operate (during normal game execution). Shortening is achieved (a change display pattern with a short change time is set in step S8850 described later).

  In this advantageous state in which the time reduction function is activated, the operation time of the long hit is always adopted as the operation time of the ordinary electric accessory 81. It will be in a state where it is particularly easy to win, and the next jackpot game can be executed at an early stage.

  In the advantageous state, by increasing the probability of winning the normal winning in the normal symbol lottery higher than that in the normal game state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win a special symbol starting hole 82 than in the normal game state. You may do it.

  As will be described in detail later, the advantageous state includes a highly probable advantageous state and a low probable advantageous state. In the highly probable advantageous state, the variation time is shortened compared to the normal gaming state, so that the frequency of performing the lottery by the rotary sorter 294 is increased, and in the bonus lottery, the specific region 343 is entered. This is a state where the theoretical acceptance probability is higher than that in the normal gaming state (however, the operating mode of the rotary sorter 294 is the same as in the normal gaming state). In addition, the low-probability advantageous state has a specific area in the lottery, although the frequency of performing the lottery by the rotary sorter 294 is increased by shortening the variation time compared to the normal gaming state. The theoretical acceptance probability for 343 is the same as in the normal gaming state.

  In the present embodiment, when the highly probable advantageous state continues, as a theoretical probability, the probability that the big hit game occurs in the high probable advantageous state (continuation probability) is 75% (that is, the big hit game is in the high probable advantageous state). The probability that the operation of the short-time function stops without occurring is 25%). However, if a big hit game is repeatedly generated and the predetermined number of game balls is acquired without completing the high-probability advantageous state (when a predetermined number of balls are obtained), the time-saving function is forced. Is stopped (or even if the big hit game is over, the time saving function is not activated). Note that details of the mechanism that the probability of occurrence of a big hit game in the highly probable advantageous state is 75% will be described later.

  On the other hand, the random number extraction means 611 for determination per special symbol determines whether or not a game ball has been won at the special symbol start port 82 based on the output signal from the second start port sensor 318. When it is determined that the winning has been made, this is a part for extracting a random number. Only one of the extracted random numbers is held by the second holding means 613, and immediately after that, the holding is released by the second holding releasing means 614, and the special symbol success / failure determining means 612 makes a special hit (here, a big hit or Judgment processing (special symbol lottery) is performed to determine whether or not the winning has been made. It should be noted that the second holding means 613 is provided only for convenience, and is not necessarily provided, and whether or not the special winning is immediately won based on the winning of the game ball to the special symbol starting port 82 Such a determination may be made.

  Note that the result of determination by the special symbol determination unit 612 (special symbol lottery result) is variably displayed on the special symbol display 332 by the special symbol display control unit 615. If the lottery result by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a small hit, the small hit game executing means 617 controls the driving of the big prize opening / closing mechanism 335 so that the upper big prize opening 141 is opened. By operating 142, a game ball can enter the area in the center accessory 91 (small hit game). If the lottery result by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a big hit, the big hit game execution means 618 controls the attacker drive mechanism 339 to enter the game ball into the lower big prize opening 83 through the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member 99. Is possible (big hit game).

  In addition, the command transmission unit 620 is configured to determine the result of the determination by the normal symbol determination unit 602 and the special symbol determination unit 612 (the result of the normal symbol lottery and the result of the special symbol lottery), information related to the lottery result, and the like. This is a part for transmitting a command indicating the above to the peripheral board 781. The “information related to the lottery result” corresponds to, for example, the display mode of the effect image determined internally, the effect time, and the like.

  Further, the discharge determining means 621 detects that the game ball has flowed out of the specific area 343 by the V winning sensor 331 or has detected that the game ball has flowed out of the normal area 344 by the discharge sensor 313. On the basis of the above, it is detected that the game ball is discharged from the center accessory 91.

  In addition, the winning determination means 622 determines whether the game ball has won in either the upper large winning port 141 or the lower large winning port 83 based on the detection of the gaming ball by the winning port sensor 330 and the detection of the gaming ball by the count sensor 319. It is a part to judge. Then, according to the determination result by the winning determination means 622, the winning ball payout means 623 controls the ball payout operation of the ball payout device 170, and according to the winning at the upper large winning opening 141 or the lower large winning opening 83. Pay out the game balls. When winning at the lower side big winning opening 83, more prize balls are paid out than when winning at the upper large winning opening 141. In this embodiment, the prize ball payout means 623 is provided as the payout control board 775, and a predetermined number of game balls are also paid out even when winning a special symbol start port 82 (second start port sensor 318).

  On the other hand, the peripheral board 781 includes command receiving means 630, normal symbol image display control means 631, and special symbol image display control means 632.

  Here, the command receiving unit 630 determines the result of the determination by the normal symbol determination unit 602 and the special symbol determination unit 612 (the result of the normal symbol lottery and the result of the special symbol lottery), and information related to the lottery result. The command indicating the above is received from the command transmitting means 620 of the main board 780.

  The normal symbol image display control means 631 is a part for variably displaying the effect image displayed on the effect display device 115 based on the command related to the normal hit among the commands received by the command receiving means 630. It is. More specifically, the normal symbol image display control means 631 is configured such that the display mode according to the lottery result for the normal hit determined in the main board 780 is the main effect image on the effect display device 115. And the variable display output in the form that the display mode appears as a modest effect image than the main effect image.

[Various control processing of main control board]
Next, various control processes performed by the main control board 765 in accordance with the progress of the game of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. First, various random numbers used for game control will be described, followed by main control side power-on processing, main control side timer interruption processing, prize ball command and self-check command transmission processing, and ACK signal input determination processing. FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of main control-side power-on processing, FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing continuation of main-control-side power-on processing in FIG. 38, and FIG. 40 is an example of main control-side timer interrupt processing. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of a prize ball command and self-check command transmission process, and FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing an example of an ACK signal input determination process. The prize ball command and self-check command transmission process and the ACK signal input determination process are performed as one process of the prize ball control process in step S80 in the main control timer interruption process described later.

<1. Various random numbers>
As various random numbers used for game control, the normal symbol hit determination random number used for the determination process regarding the hit per long or short hit that triggers the operation of the ordinary electric accessory (movable member) 81, and the normal symbol For determining the initial value of the normal symbol hit determination used to determine the initial value of the random number for hit determination, and for determining the variable display pattern of the normal symbol used for determining the variable display pattern to be displayed on the normal symbol display 333 A random number and a random number for determining a normal symbol used for a lottery process for a variable display pattern when the variable symbol display is stopped are prepared. Also, a special symbol hit determination random number used in the determination process for small hits and big hits and a special symbol hit determination initial value used for determining the initial value of the special symbol hit determination random number The random number for use, the random number for determining the variable display pattern of the special symbol used to determine the variable display pattern to be displayed on the special symbol display 332, and the random display for the variable display pattern when the variable symbol display of the special symbol is stopped are used. Special design random numbers are available.

<2. Main control side power-on processing>
When the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 performs main control side power-on processing as shown in FIGS. When the main control side power-on process is started, an interrupt mode is set (step S10). This interrupt mode sets the priority order of interrupts of the main control MPU 765a. In the present embodiment, a main control timer interrupt process, which will be described later, is set as the highest priority, and when an interrupt of the main control timer interrupt process occurs, the process is preferentially performed. Subsequent to step S10, input / output setting (I / O input / output setting) is performed (step S12). In this I / O input / output setting, input / output setting of the I / O port of the main control MPU 765a is performed. Following step S12, the watchdog timer built in the main control MPU 765a is set to be valid (step S14). This watchdog timer is for monitoring the operation (system) of the main control MPU 765a, and when it is not cleared for a certain period of time, the main control MPU 765a is reset (whether the system of the main control MPU 765a is out of control). Diagnose regularly).

  Following step S14, wait timer processing 1 is performed (step S16). The voltage does not increase immediately from when the power is turned on until the voltage reaches the predetermined voltage. On the other hand, when a power outage or a momentary power failure (a phenomenon in which the supply of power is suddenly stopped) occurs, the voltage decreases, and when the voltage falls below the power outage warning voltage, a power outage signal is input as a power outage notice. A power failure signal is input when the voltage falls below the power failure warning voltage from when the power is turned on to when the voltage rises to a predetermined voltage. Therefore, in the wait timer process 1, after the power is turned on, the process waits until the voltage becomes higher than the power failure notice voltage. In this embodiment, 200 milliseconds (ms) is set as the waiting time (wait timer). Subsequent to step S16, it is determined whether or not the RAM clear switch 769 is operated (step S18). This determination is performed based on whether or not the RAM clear switch 769 of the main control board 765 is operated and an operation signal (detection signal) is input to the main control board 765. When the detection signal is input, it is determined that the RAM clear switch 769 is operated. On the other hand, when the detection signal is not input, it is determined that the RAM clear switch 769 is not operated.

  When the RAM clear switch 769 is operated in step S18, the RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is set to a value 1 (step S20). On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch 769 is not operated in step S18, the RAM clear is cleared. A value 0 is set in the notification flag RCL-FLG (step S22). This RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is stored in a RAM (hereinafter referred to as “main built-in RAM”) built in the main control MPU 765a, and game information relating to games such as game state and unpaid prize balls. Is a flag indicating whether or not to be erased, and is set to a value of 1 when erasing game information and a value of 0 when not erasing game information. The RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG set in step S20 and step S22 is stored in the general-purpose storage element (general-purpose register) of the main control MPU 765a.

  Following step S20 or step S22, wait timer processing 2 is performed (step S24). In this wait timer process 2, the system waits until the system that performs display control of the effect display device 115 by the liquid crystal control board 758 is activated (booted). For example, various control programs compressed from the liquid crystal control ROM 758b are read out and stored in the RAM built in the liquid crystal control MPU 758a. In this embodiment, 2 seconds (s) is set as a time until booting (boot timer). Subsequent to step S24, a setting for permitting access to the main internal RAM is performed (step S26). With this setting, the main internal RAM can be accessed, and for example, game information can be written (stored) or read. Subsequent to step S26, the stack pointer is set (step S28). The stack pointer indicates, for example, the address accumulated on the stack to temporarily store the contents of the memory element (register) being used, or temporarily returns the return address of this routine when returning to this routine after completing the subroutine. It indicates the address that is stacked on the stack for storage, and the stack pointer advances each time the stack is stacked. In step S28, an initial address is set in the stack pointer, and from this initial address, the contents of the register, the return address, etc. are stacked on the stack. Then, the stack pointer returns to the initial address by sequentially reading from the last stacked stack to the first stacked stack.

  Following step S28, it is determined whether or not the RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is 0 (step S30). As described above, the RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is set to a value 1 when erasing game information and a value 0 when not erasing game information. When the RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is 0 in step S30, that is, when the game information is not deleted, a checksum is calculated (step S32). This checksum is calculated by considering the game information stored in the main built-in RAM as a numerical value. Subsequent to step S32, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum value matches a checksum value stored in a main control side power-off process (power-off) described later (step S34). . If they match, it is determined whether or not the backup flag BK-FLG is 1 (step S36). This backup flag BK-FLG indicates whether backup information such as game information, a checksum value, and a backup flag BK-FLG value is stored in the main built-in RAM in the main control side power-off process described later. It is a flag, and is set to a value of 1 when the main control side power-off process is normally terminated, and a value of 0 when the main control-side power-off process is not terminated normally.

  When the backup flag BK-FLG has a value of 1 in step S36, that is, when the main control side power-off process has been completed normally, the work area of the main internal RAM is set as the time of power recovery (step S38). In this setting, in addition to setting the backup flag BK-FLG to 0, the power recovery time information is read from the ROM built in the main control MPU 765a (hereinafter referred to as “main internal ROM”). Information is set in the work area of the main internal RAM. Here, “at power recovery” includes not only a state in which the power is turned off but also a state in which the power is turned on, and also a state in which power is restored after a power failure or a momentary power failure. Subsequent to step S38, power-on command creation processing is performed (step S40). In the power-on command creation process, game information is read from the backup information, and various commands corresponding to the game information are stored in a predetermined storage area of the main internal RAM. Note that various commands will be described later.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear notification flag RCL-FLG is not 0 (value 1) in step S30, that is, when the game information is erased, or when the checksum values do not match in step S34, or step S36. When the backup flag BK-FLG is not 1 (ie, 0), that is, when the main control side power-off process has not ended normally, the entire area of the main internal RAM is cleared (step S42). As a setting, the work area of the main internal RAM is set (step S44). In this setting, the initial information is read from the main internal ROM and the initial information is set in the work area of the main internal RAM. Subsequent to step S44, RAM clear notification and test command creation processing is performed (step S46). In this RAM clear notification and test command creation processing, a RAM clear notification command for notifying the sub-integrated board 763 that the main built-in RAM has been cleared and initial setting has been performed, and various inspections of the sub-integrated board 763 are performed. And a test command for generating the test command, and storing it as transmission information in the transmission information storage area of the main internal RAM. When the sub-integrated board 763 receives the RAM clear notification command, the RAM clear notification command is transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 758. On the other hand, when the test command is received, the sound source IC 763c, the liquid crystal control board 758, and the lamp driving board 46 are changed. Send a test command for inspection.

  Subsequent to step S40 or step S46, interrupt initialization is performed (step S48). This setting is to set an interrupt cycle when a main control timer interrupt process described later is performed. In this embodiment, it is set to 4 ms. Subsequent to step S48, interrupt permission is set. (Step S50). With this setting, the main control timer interruption process is repeated every interruption cycle set in step S48, that is, every 4 ms.

  Subsequent to step S50, a value A is set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL (step S52). The watchdog timer is cleared by setting the value A, the value B, and the value C in this watchdog timer clear register WCL in order. Following step S52, it is determined whether a power failure signal is input (step S54). As described above, when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is shut off, or when a power failure or a momentary power failure occurs, a power failure signal is input as a power failure warning when the voltage is equal to or lower than the power failure warning voltage. The determination in step S54 is made based on this power failure signal. When no power failure signal is input in step S54, non-winning random number update processing is performed (step S56).

  In this non-winning random number update process, the above-described normal symbol hit determination initial value determination random number, variable display pattern determination random number, and the like are updated. For example, the counter that updates the normal symbol hit determination random number increases the range from the lower limit value to the upper limit value of the normal symbol hit determination random number by 1 each time the main control timer interrupt processing described later is performed. (Count up). This counter counts up to the upper limit from the random number for determining the initial value for hit determination of the normal symbol, when the random value for determining the initial value for determining the hit of the normal symbol is set (updated) by the non-winning random number update process, Subsequently, it counts up from the lower limit value to the random value for determining the initial value for determining the normal symbol hit. Then, the random value for determining the initial value for determining the hit of the normal symbol is updated again by the non-winning random number update process. In this way, in the non-winning random number update process, random numbers that are not involved in the winning determination (big hit determination) are updated. It should be noted that the above-described special symbol hit determination initial value determination random number, variable display pattern determination random number, and the like are also updated by this non-winning random number update processing. The random number for determining the initial value for determining the hit of the special symbol is the same as the method for updating the random number for determining the initial value for determining the hit of the normal symbol, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Following step S56, the process returns to step S52 again to set the value A in the watchdog timer clear register WCL. In step S54, it is determined whether or not there is a power failure signal. The non-winning random number update process is performed, and steps S52 to S56 are repeated. The processing from step S52 to step S56 is referred to as “main control side main processing”.

  On the other hand, when a power failure signal is input in step S54, interrupt prohibition setting is performed (step S58). With this setting, the main control side timer interrupt processing described later is not performed, writing to the main internal RAM is prevented, and rewriting of game information is protected. Subsequent to step S58, a checksum is calculated and the calculated value is stored (step S60). The checksum is calculated by regarding the game information in the work area of the main internal RAM as a numerical value, excluding the storage area for the checksum value and backup flag BK-FLG described above. Subsequent to step S60, the value 1 is set to the backup flag BK-FLG. (Step S62) This completes the storage of the backup information. Subsequent to step S62, prohibition of access to the main internal RAM is set (step S64). With this setting, access to the main internal RAM is prohibited, and writing and reading cannot be performed, and the backup information stored in the main internal RAM is protected. Subsequent to step S64, the watchdog timer is cleared (step S66). As described above, the clear setting is performed by sequentially setting the value A, the value B, and the value C in the watchdog timer clear register WCL. Following step S66, an infinite loop is entered. In this infinite loop, the value A, the value B, and the value C are not sequentially set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL, so that the watchdog timer is not cleared. For this reason, the main control MPU 765a is reset, and the main control MPU 765a performs the main control side power-on process again. Note that the processing of step S58 to step S66 and the infinite loop are referred to as “main control side power-off processing”.

  The pachinko machine 1 (main control MPU 765a) is reset when a power failure occurs or when an instantaneous power failure occurs, and the main control side power-on process is performed by subsequent power recovery.

  In step S34, it is checked whether the backup information stored in the main built-in RAM is normal, and in step S36, it is checked whether the main control side power-off process has been normally completed. is doing. In this way, by checking the backup information stored in the main built-in RAM twice, it is inspected whether the backup information is stored by fraud.

<3. Main control timer interrupt processing>
Next, the main control timer interrupt process will be described. The main control side timer interrupt process is repeatedly performed every interrupt period (4 ms in the present embodiment) set in the main control side power-on process shown in FIGS.

  When the main control side timer interrupt process is started, the main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 sets the timer interrupt to be prohibited and switches (saves) the register as shown in FIG. 40 (step S70). Here, the general-purpose storage element (general-purpose register) used in the main process on the main control side is switched to the auxiliary register. By using this auxiliary register in the timer interrupt processing on the main control side, the value of the general register is not overwritten. This prevents the contents of the general-purpose register used in the main process on the main control side from being destroyed.

  Subsequent to step S70, the value B is set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL (step S72). At this time, the value B is set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL following the value A set in step S52 of the main control side power-on process (main control side main process).

  Subsequent to step S72, switch input processing is performed (step S74). In this switch input process, various signals input to the input terminal of the main control I / O port 765b are read and stored as input information in the input information storage area of the main built-in RAM. For example, a detection signal from a first start port sensor 317 that detects a game ball that has entered the normal symbol start port 96, and a detection signal from a second start port sensor 318 that detects a game ball that has won a special symbol start port 82. , A detection signal from the winning hole sensor 330 for detecting the game ball won in the upper big winning opening 141, a detection signal from the count sensor 319 for detecting the gaming ball won in the lower big winning opening 83, and the outflow from the specific area 343 The payout control of the detection signal from the V winning sensor 331 for detecting the game ball, the detection signal from the discharge sensor 313 for detecting the game ball flowing out from the normal area 344, and a prize ball command transmitted in the prize ball control processing described later. The ACK signal from the payout control board 775 that informs that the board 775 has been received normally is read and stored in the input information storage area.

  Subsequent to step S74, timer subtraction processing is performed (step S76). In this timer subtraction process, for example, the time during which the special symbol display 332 is turned on in accordance with the variable display pattern determined in the special symbol and special electric accessory control process described later, determined in the normal symbol and normal electric accessory control process described later. In addition to the time during which the special symbol display 332 is turned on in accordance with the normal symbol variation display pattern, an ACK signal is transmitted that indicates that the payout control board 775 has normally received various commands transmitted by the main control board 765 (main control MPU 765a). Time management such as an ACK signal input determination time set as a determination condition when determining whether or not the signal is input is performed. Specifically, when the fluctuation time of the special symbol fluctuation display pattern or the normal symbol fluctuation display pattern is 5 seconds, the timer interruption period is set to 4 ms. Is subtracted every 4 ms, and the subtraction result becomes 0, so that the fluctuation time of the fluctuation display pattern of the special symbol or the fluctuation display pattern of the normal symbol is accurately measured.

  In this embodiment, 100 ms is set as the ACK signal input determination time, and every time this timer subtraction process is performed, the ACK signal input determination time is subtracted by 4 ms, and the result of the subtraction becomes 0 so that the ACK signal input is determined. Judgment time is accurately measured. These various times and the ACK signal input determination time are stored as time management information in the time management information storage area of the main built-in RAM.

  Subsequent to step S76, a winning random number update process is performed (step S78). In this winning random number update process, the above-described normal symbol hit determination random number and normal symbol determination random number are updated. In addition to these random numbers, the normal symbol hit determination initial value determination random number and the like updated in the non-winning random number update process in step S56 in the main control side power-on process (main control side main process) are also updated. To do. Randomness for determining the initial value for determining the normal symbol hit is updated in the main control side main process and the main control side timer interrupt process, thereby increasing the randomness. On the other hand, since the normal symbol hit determination random number and the normal symbol determination random number are random numbers related to the winning determination (ordinary winning determination), each counter is incremented only when the winning random number update process is performed. For example, the counter for updating the normal symbol hit determination random number counts up the range from the lower limit value to the upper limit value of the normal symbol hit determination random number every time the main control timer interrupt processing is performed. This counter counts up from a random number for determining an initial value for determining a normal symbol to an upper limit value, and then counts up from a lower limit value to an initial value. When the counter finishes counting up the range from the lower limit value to the upper limit value of the normal design hit determination random number, the normal symbol hit determination initial value determination random number is updated by this winning random number update processing. The special symbol hit determination random number and the hit determination initial value determination random number described above are also updated by the winning random number update process. The special symbol hit determination random number and the like are the same as the method for updating the normal symbol hit determination random number described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Subsequent to step S78, prize ball control processing is performed (step S80). In this prize ball control process, the input information is read from the above-described input state storage area, and a prize ball command for paying out a game ball is created based on this input information, or the board of the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775. Or create a self-check command to check the connection status. Then, the created prize ball command or self-check command is transmitted to the payout control board 775. For example, when one game ball is won at the lower side large winning opening 83, a prize ball command for paying out 15 balls as a prize ball is created and transmitted to the payout control board 775, or the prize ball command is sent to the payout control board. When the ACK signal notifying that 775 has been normally received is not input within a predetermined time, a self-check command for confirming the connection state between the main control board 65 and the payout control board 775 is created to the payout control board 775. Or send. Detailed descriptions thereof will be described later.

  Subsequent to step S80, a prize ball check process is performed (step S82). In this prize ball check process, an abnormal state related to the prize ball is confirmed. For example, when a game ball is won in the lower side big winning opening 83 when not in the big hit game state, a prize ball abnormality notification command is created as an abnormal state and stored as transmission information in the transmission information storage area described above. (This abnormal state is confirmed based on the input information read from the input information storage area). Following step S82, command reception processing is performed (step S84). The payout control board 775 transmits a state command such as a state in which the ball payout device 170 does not pay out the game ball due to the ball staking, as will be described in detail later. In the command reception process of step S84, when this status command is normally received, information that informs the payout control board 775 to that effect is stored as output information in the output information storage area of the main internal RAM. Although the detailed description thereof will be described later, the normally received status command is shaped and stored as transmission information in the transmission information storage area described above.

  Subsequent to step S84, a special symbol and special electric accessory control process is performed (step S86). In this special symbol and special electric accessory control process, the input information is read from the above-described input information storage area, and whether or not the detection signal from the second start port sensor 318 is input to the input terminal based on this input information. Determine whether. Based on the determination result, when the detection signal is input to the input terminal, the values of various counters for updating the above-described special symbol hit determination random number, variation display pattern determination random number, etc. are extracted as start information. Store in the processing area of the main internal RAM 316. Note that only one start information storage block is provided in this start information storage area, and start information is stored in this start information storage block. This start information corresponds to the special symbol hold, and in this embodiment, the maximum number of special symbols held is “1” as described above. Then, the output of the lighting signal is set so that the number of the start information storage blocks is the holding ball and the special holding ball lamp 322 is turned on, and the output information is stored in the output information storage area described above.

  Then, based on the start information read from the start information storage block to the processing area of the main built-in RAM 316, a special symbol hit determination random number value is extracted and stored in advance in the main built-in ROM. It is determined whether or not they match (determination as to whether the game is a big hit or a small hit), and the gaming state determined by these determination results is determined. In the determined gaming state, a special symbol variation display pattern is determined based on the above-described special symbol variation display pattern determination random number, and a game effect command is created and stored as transmission information in the transmission information storage area described above. To do. Further, according to the game state to be generated, for example, when a big hit game is generated, the output of the drive signal to the attacker drive mechanism 339 is set so as to open and close the lower side large winning opening 83, and the output described above as the output information. Store in the information storage area. Further, when the small winning game state is entered, the output of the drive signal to the big winning opening / closing mechanism 335 is set so as to open / close the upper winning opening 141, and is stored as output information in the above-described output information storage area. Details of the special symbol and the special electric accessory control process will be described later.

  Subsequent to step S86, normal symbol and normal electric accessory control processing is performed (step S88). Here, in the ordinary electric accessory control process, operation control of the ordinary electric accessory 81 is performed. In this normal symbol and normal electric accessory control process, the input information is read from the above-described input information storage area, and based on this input information, whether or not the detection signal from the first start port sensor 317 is input to the input terminal. Determine whether. Based on the determination result, when a detection signal is input to the input terminal, the values of various counters that update the normal symbol hit determination random number and the variable display pattern determination random number described above are extracted as start information. Store in the startup information storage area of the main internal RAM. In this start information storage area, start information storage blocks 0 to 3 (four start information storage blocks) are provided, and start information is stored in time series in each start information storage block. In addition, each starting information is corresponded to the holding | maintenance of a normal symbol, and the maximum number of holdings of a normal symbol is "4" in this embodiment. Then, the number of start information storage blocks is set as a holding ball, the output of a lighting signal is set so that the normal holding ball lamp 323 is turned on, and the output information is stored in the output information storage area described above.

  Then, based on the start information read from the start information storage block 0 to the processing area of the main internal RAM 316, the normal symbol hit determination random number value is extracted and stored in the main internal ROM in advance. And the gaming state determined by these determination results is determined. Based on the above-mentioned determined gaming state, the normal symbol variable display pattern determination random number is determined based on the above-described normal symbol variable display pattern determination random number, and a game effect command is created and stored as transmission information in the transmission information storage area described above. To do. Further, depending on the game state to be generated, for example, when the normal hit game state is established, the drive signal of the normal accessory drive mechanism 334 is switched so that the special symbol start port 82 is switched to a winning mode (allowed ball mode). The output is set and stored as output information in the output information storage area described above. The details of the normal symbol and normal electric accessory control process will be described later.

  Subsequent to step S88, port output processing is performed (step S90). In this port output processing, output information is read from the output information storage area described above from the output terminal of the main control I / O port 765b, and various signals are output based on this output information. For example, an ACK signal is output to the payout control board 775 when the status command from the payout control board 775 is normally received from the output terminal based on the output information, or when the big hit game is being played, the lower side big winning opening 83 A drive signal is output to the attacker drive mechanism 339 that performs the opening / closing operation of the player, or a jackpot signal that indicates that a jackpot game is being played is output to the external terminal board 371.

  Subsequent to step S90, sub-integrated board command transmission processing is performed (step S92). In the sub-integrated board command transmission process, the transmission information is read from the transmission information storage area described above, and the transmission information is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 763. As described above, the transmission information includes a game effect command, a RAM clear notification command, a test command, a prize ball abnormality notification command, a status command, and the like. In addition to this transmission information, connection is established when there is a malfunction in the connection state based on the value of the self-check flag set when the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 is confirmed. A failure command is created and transmitted to the sub-integrated board 763.

  Subsequent to step S92, a value C is set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL (step S94). At this time, the value C is set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL following the value B set in step S72. As a result, the value A, the value B, and the value C are sequentially set in the watchdog timer clear register WCL, and the watchdog timer is cleared. Subsequent to step S94, the register is switched (returned) (step S96). This return is performed by reading the contents saved on the stack in step S70 and writing them in the register. Subsequent to step S96, interrupt permission is set (step S98), and this routine is terminated.

<4. Prize ball command and self-check command transmission processing>
Next, prize ball command and self-check command transmission processing will be described. In this prize ball command and self-check command transmission process, a prize ball command for instructing the number of game balls to be paid out as a prize ball and a self-check for checking the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775. The command is transmitted to the payout control board 775.

  When the prize ball command and self-check command transmission process is started, the main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 determines whether or not the self-check flag SCHK-FLG is a value 1 as shown in FIG. Step S100). This self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set when a self-check command for confirming the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 is generated and transmitted in an ACK signal input determination process described later. This flag is set to a value of 1 when a self-check command is transmitted and a value of 0 when a self-check command is not transmitted. The self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set to an initial value of 0, that is, a state in which no self-check command is transmitted.

  When the self-check flag SCHK-FLG is not a value 1 (value 0) in step S100, that is, when no self-check command is transmitted, a problem occurs in the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775. If not, a prize ball command transmission process is performed (step S102). In this award ball command transmission process, for example, when one game ball is won in the lower large winning opening 83, a prize ball command for paying out 15 balls as a prize ball is created and transmitted to the payout control board 775. When the prize ball command is transmitted to the payout control board 775, the prize ball command is erased. That is, the created prize ball command can be transmitted only once from the main control board 765 (main control MPU 765a) to the payout control board 775, and is discarded after transmission.

  On the other hand, when the self-check flag SCHK-FLG is 1 in step 100, that is, when a self-check command is transmitted, it is assumed that there is a problem in the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775. The self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set to 0 (step S104), self-check command transmission processing (step S106) is performed, and this routine is terminated. In this self-check command transmission process, a self-check command for confirming the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 is created and transmitted to the payout control board 775. When the prize ball command transmission process in step S102 and the self-check command transmission process in step S106 are started, the above-described time measurement of the ACK signal input determination time (100 ms in this embodiment) is started.

  By setting the value of the self-check flag SCHK-FLG to the value 0 in step S104 (that is, by setting the value of the self-check flag SCHK-FLGK from the value 1 to the value 0), the self-check command transmitted in step S106 However, when an ACK signal indicating that the payout control board 775 has normally received the self-check command is input in an ACK signal input determination process described later, a prize ball command transmission process is performed in step S102. At this time, in the prize ball command transmission process, if there is a game ball to be paid out as a prize ball, a prize ball command of that number is created and transmitted to the payout control board 775. On the other hand, if the self-check command transmitted in step S106 does not receive an ACK signal indicating that the payout control board 775 has normally received the self-check command in the ACK signal input determination process described later, the self-check command is issued again in step S106. The self-check command is repeatedly transmitted to the payout control board 775 unless the ACK signal is input.

  In this way, the main control board 765 (main control MPU 765a) transmits a prize ball command to the payout control board 775 and transmits a check command to the payout control board 775 when the ACK signal from the payout control board 775 is not input. Thereby, for example, it is possible to easily confirm a connection failure such as a cable connector that electrically connects the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 is disconnected or the cable is disconnected. Can do.

  Further, for example, an illegal board (so-called hanging board) is provided separately from the payout control board 775 so that the ACK signal is not input to the main control board 765, and the player starts the illegal board program by remote control operation. Even if the act is performed, the main control board 765 (main control MPU 765a) transmits the check command to the payout control board 775 instead of retransmitting the prize ball command when the ACK signal is not input. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a player from illegally acquiring a game ball by an illegal act using an illegal board, and to safely check a connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775. it can. A detailed description of the above-described prize ball command and self-check command will be given later.

<5. ACK signal input determination processing>
Next, the ACK signal input determination process will be described. In this ACK signal input determination process, it is determined whether or not the payout control board 775 has normally received a prize ball command or a self-check command.

  When the ACK signal input determination process is started, the main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 determines whether or not the ACK signal input determination time has elapsed as shown in FIG. 42 (step S110). This determination is made based on the ACK signal input determination time subtracted in the timer subtraction process in step S76 in the main control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. Specifically, the ACK signal input determination time is stored as time management information in the time management information storage area of the main internal RAM. In step S110, the time management information is read from the time management information storage area to determine whether or not the ACK signal input determination time has elapsed.

  If it is determined in step S110 that the ACK signal input determination time has not elapsed, it is determined whether an ACK signal is input (step S112). This determination is made based on the ACK signal from the payout control board 775 in the switch input process in step S74 in the main control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. Specifically, the ACK signal is stored as input information in the input information storage area of the main built-in RAM. In step S112, input information is read from this input information storage area, and it is determined whether or not an ACK signal is input.

  When the ACK signal is input in step S112, the self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set to 0 (step S114), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the ACK signal is not input in step S112, this routine is terminated as it is. The self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set to a value of 1 when transmitting a self-check command for confirming the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 and to a value of 0 when not transmitting the self-check command. ing. When the ACK signal is input, the self-check flag SCHK-FLG is set to 0 in step S114, that is, the self-check command is not transmitted. The value of the check flag SCHK-FLG is prevented from changing.

  On the other hand, when the ACK signal input determination time has elapsed in step S110, the self-check flag SCHK-FLGK is set to a value of 1, that is, the self-check command is transmitted (step S116), and this routine is terminated. By setting the self-check flag SCHK-FLGK to 1 in step S116, the self-check command transmission process is performed in step S106 in the prize ball command and self-check command transmission process shown in FIG. To the payout control board 775.

<6. Normal symbol and normal electric accessory control processing>
Next, the details of the normal symbol and normal electric accessory control process (first game process) will be described. 43 is a flowchart showing an example of the first game process, FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing an example of the first start detection process, and FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol lottery / variation start process. 46 is a flowchart showing an example of a normal symbol lottery fluctuation display pattern setting process, FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing an example of a normal figure changing process, and FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing an example of a universal symbol hitting action operation process. .

  In the following, the normal symbol and normal electric accessory control process in step S88 in the main control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 40 will be described as “first game process”. As shown in FIG. 43, the main control MPU 765a performs the first start detection process (step S8800), the normal symbol lottery / variation start process (step S8802), and the normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process as the “first game process”. (Step S8804), the normal-fluctuating process (Step S8806), and the universal action operation process (Step S8808) are sequentially performed. Details of each process will be described below.

  First, as shown in FIG. 44, when the first start detection process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the first start detection flag is ON (step S8810). The first start detection flag is set to ON by the switch input process (step S74) when the first start port sensor 317 detects that a game ball has entered the normal symbol start port 96. If the first start detection flag is ON (YES in step S8810), it is further determined whether or not the number of reserved balls in the usual figure by the first holding means 603 is smaller than 4 (step S8812). If the usual figure reserved ball count is smaller than 4 (YES in step S8812), a first start storage storing process for holding the random number extracted by the random number extraction means 601 for normal symbol per symbol in the first hold means 603 is executed ( Step S8814). Specifically, in this first start storage storing process, a normal symbol hit determination random number, a variable display pattern determination random number, and the like are stored as start information in the start information storage area of the main map hold in the main internal RAM. . Note that after the first start storage storage process (step S8814), the first start detection process is terminated. Further, the first start detection process is also ended when the first start detection flag is OFF (NO in step S8810) or when the general-purpose reserved ball count is 4 or more (NO in step S8812).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 45, when the normal symbol lottery / variation start process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the first job flag is “0” (step S8820). The first job flag is a flag for instructing a processing stage relating to a normal symbol. Here, when the symbol variation of the normal symbol is not performed (for example, the state where the demonstration screen is displayed on the effect display device 115), the first job flag is set to “0”. If the first job flag is not “0” (NO in step S8820), other processing related to the normal symbol (for example, during normal symbol variation) is being executed, so the normal symbol lottery / variation start processing is performed. Exit.

  If the first job flag is “0” (YES in step S8820), it is further determined whether or not the first hold means 603 has a first start memory (step S8822). If there is a first start memory (YES in step S8822), a first start memory transfer process is executed (step S8824). Specifically, in the first start memory transition process, the start information stored in the general information hold start information storage block 0 is read out and stored in a predetermined processing area. Thereafter, the start information in the start information storage block 1 is in the start information storage block 0, the start information in the start information storage block 2 is in the start information storage block 1, and the start information in the start information storage block 3 is in the start information storage block 2. The start information in the start information storage block 4 is shifted to the start information storage block 3, respectively. If the first start memory is 0 in step S8822 (NO in step S8822), the normal symbol lottery / variation start process is terminated.

  After performing the first start-up memory transition process in step S8824, it is determined whether or not the hit determination random number of the start information stored in the predetermined processing area is a long hit value (step S8826). At this time, if it is a long hit value (YES in step S8826), the long hit flag is turned ON (step S8828). The long hit flag is a flag that is set when a long win is won in the normal symbol lottery. If it is not the long hit value (NO in step S8826), it is determined whether or not the hit determination random number of the start information stored in the predetermined processing area is a short hit value (step S8830). At this time, if it is a short hit value (YES in step S8830), the short hit flag is turned ON (step S8832). The short hit flag is a flag that is set when a short win is won. If neither the long hit value nor the short hit value is determined (NO in step S8830), neither the long hit flag nor the short hit flag is turned ON (is kept OFF). Thereafter, “1” is set to the first job flag described above (step S8834), and the normal symbol lottery / variation start process is terminated.

  In the present embodiment, only 107 types of random numbers for normal symbol hit determination are prepared. Of these hit determination random numbers, 53 types of random values coincide with the hit determination values (that is, the long hit value and the short hit value) indicating that the win is won, and 54 types of random number values are lost. It matches the hit judgment value indicating that it is (losing). Furthermore, out of the hit determination values indicating that the winning is won, two types of random number values coincide with the hit determination values (that is, the long hit value) indicating that the winning is per long, and there are 51 types of randomness values. The numerical value coincides with the hit determination value (that is, the short hit value) indicating that the short win is won. That is, in the present embodiment, the probability of winning per short win is set to be significantly higher than the probability of winning per long win. In other words, in the normal gaming state, the probability of winning per long is 2/107, and the probability of winning per short is 51/107.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 46, when the normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the first job flag is “1” (step S8840). If the first job flag is not “1” (NO in step S8840), the normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is terminated.

  If the first job flag is “1” (YES in step S8840), it is further determined whether or not the long hit flag is ON (step S8842). At this time, if the long hit flag is ON (YES in step S8842), the long fluctuation display pattern setting process is executed (step S8844). This long-time variation display pattern setting process is a process of setting a variation display pattern corresponding to a lottery result per long.

  If the long hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8842), it is determined whether or not the short hit flag is ON (step S8846). At this time, if the short hit flag is ON (YES in step S8846), a short hit fluctuation display pattern setting process is executed (step S8848). The short hit fluctuation display pattern setting process is a process of setting a fluctuation display pattern corresponding to the short win lottery result.

  On the other hand, if the short hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8846), since both the long hit flag and the short hit flag are OFF, the normal symbol lottery loss variation display pattern setting process is executed (step S8850). . This normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is a process of setting a variable display pattern corresponding to the lottery result of the loss.

  After that, set the variation time corresponding to the variation display pattern set in any of the long-hit fluctuation display pattern setting process, short-hit fluctuation display pattern setting process, and normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process to the timer. (Step S8852), the normal LED operation flag is set to ON (Step S8854). When the normal LED activation flag is set to ON, symbol variation on the normal symbol display 333 (LED 84) is started. Thereafter, “2” is set to the first job flag described above (step S8856), and the normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is terminated.

  The variation display pattern set in the normal symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is transmitted to the sub integrated board 763 by the sub integrated board command transmission process (step S92) shown in FIG.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 47, when the process during normal map change is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the first job flag is “2” (step S8860). If the first job flag is not “2” (NO in step S8860), the process of changing the normal map is terminated. On the other hand, if the first job flag is “2” (YES in step S8860), it is further determined whether or not the variation time set in the timer in step S8852 has expired (step S8862). If the variation time set in the timer has not timed up (NO in step S8862), the normal variation processing is terminated.

  If the variation time set in the timer has expired (YES in step S8862), the ordinary LED operation flag is set to OFF (step S8864). When the normal symbol LED operation flag is set to OFF, the symbol variation on the normal symbol display 333 (LED 84) is terminated. Then, the symbol change of the normal symbol executed by the sub-integrated board 763 is stopped, and a confirmation stop command for confirming and displaying the lottery result is set on the effect display device 115 (step S8866). This fixed stop command is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 763 by the sub-integrated board command transmission process (step S92) shown in FIG.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the long hit flag or the short hit flag is ON (step S8868). If the long hit flag or the short hit flag is ON (YES in step S8868), “3” is set to the first job flag described above (step S8870), and the normal-fluctuation changing process is ended. On the other hand, if neither the long hit flag nor the short hit flag is ON (NO in step S8868), “0” is set to the first job flag described above (step S8872), and the processing during normal map change ends. To do.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 48, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the first job flag is “3” when the universal action operation process is started (step S8880). If the first job flag is not “3” (NO in step S8880), the bonus hitting process is terminated.

  If the first job flag is “3” (YES in step S8880), it is further determined whether or not the aforementioned long hit flag is ON (step S8882). At this time, if the long hit flag is ON (YES in step S8882), the long open time (for example, “5700 ms”) is set as a timer as the operation time of the ordinary electric accessory 81 (open time of the special symbol start port 82). (Step S8884).

  Then, a long hit electric role release effect pattern command, which is a command for instructing an effect pattern corresponding to the long hit executed by the sub-integrated board 763, is transmitted (step S8886).

  On the other hand, if the long hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8882), it means that the short hit flag is ON. Therefore, it is determined whether or not it is in an advantageous state (whether or not the time reduction function is activated) (step S8888), and if it is in an advantageous state (YES in step S8888), it is a short hit despite being short hit. As the operating time of the ordinary electric accessory 81 (the opening time of the special symbol start port 82), a long opening time (for example, “5700 ms”) is set in the timer (step S8884), and the long hitting electric power is released as described above. An effect pattern command is transmitted (step S8886).

  On the other hand, if it is not in the advantageous state (NO in step S8888), the short opening time (for example, “108 ms”) is set in the timer as the operation time of the ordinary electric accessory 81 (opening time of the special symbol start port 82). (Step S8890). If a short win is won in a state where the game is not in a short-time game, the long hit electric role release effect pattern command is not transmitted as in step S8886. In other words, even if the short win is won, the effect display device 115 does not display that the short win has been won, and the special symbol start opening 82 is opened only for a short period by the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 81. Become.

  Thereafter, the ordinary electric accessory 81 is operated by the ordinary accessory driving mechanism 334 to perform the electric character opening control for opening the special symbol starting port 82 (step S8892). Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (long open time or short open time) for which the timer is set has elapsed (step S8894). If the timer has elapsed (YES in step S8884), the ordinary electric accessory 81 is stopped by the ordinary accessory driving mechanism 334, and the electric symbol closing control for closing the special symbol starting port 82 is performed. (Step S 8896), “0” is then set to the first job flag (step S 8898). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S8894), the process returns to step S8894, and the power release control is executed until the predetermined time elapses.

  48 is actually executed independently of the processing on the main control board 765 and the processing on the sub-integrated board 763 according to the timer interrupt on each board. However, in this embodiment, for convenience of explanation and easy understanding, the processing in the main control board 765 and the processing in the sub-integrated board 763 are described as sequential processes that are continuous as a series of processes.

<7. Special design and special electric accessory control processing>
Next, details of the special symbol and the special electric accessory control process (second game process) will be described. 49 is a flowchart showing an example of the second game process, FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing an example of the second start detection process, and FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol lottery / variation start process. 52 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol lottery fluctuation display pattern setting process, FIG. 53 is a list showing an example of the fluctuation display pattern selected in the special figure fluctuation display pattern setting process, and FIG. 54 is a special figure fluctuation. FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing an example of a small winning combination actuating process, and FIG. 56 detects that a game ball has won a special symbol, an upper prize winning opening, and an upper winning prize opening. FIG. 57 is a time chart showing the operating principle of the winning timer sensor detection timer, solenoid, and rotary sorter (rotating body). A flow chart showing an example of a ring processing, FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing an example of a special electric won game jackpot controlled process.

  The special symbol and the special electric accessory control process in step S86 in the main control timer interruption process shown in FIG. 40 will be described as “second game process” below. As shown in FIG. 49, the main control MPU 765a performs, as “second game processing”, second start detection processing (step S8600), special symbol lottery / variation start processing (step S8602), special symbol lottery variation display pattern setting processing. (Step S8604), special figure changing processing (Step S8606), small hitting member operation processing (Step S8608), big hit opening process (Step S8610), and special electric accessory big hit control processing (Step S8612) are performed in order. Details of each process will be described below.

  First, as shown in FIG. 50, when the second start detection process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second start detection flag is ON (step S8620). The second start detection flag is set to ON by the switch input process (step S74) when it is detected by the second start port sensor 318 that a game ball has won the special symbol start port 82. If the second start detection flag is ON (YES in step S8620), an illegal winning confirmation process for confirming whether or not the special symbol starting port 82 has been illegally executed is executed (step S8622). For example, in this illegal winning confirmation process, the special symbol starting port 82 is opened by the ordinary electric accessory 81 at a timing that is not the original opening timing of the special symbol starting port 82 or the second starting port sensor 318 plays a game ball. In the event that is detected, processing such as issuing a warning is performed. And it is discriminate | determined whether the special figure reservation ball number count by the 2nd holding means 613 is smaller than 1 (step S8624). If the special figure reserved ball count is smaller than 1 (YES in step S8624), a second start storage storage process is executed in which the random number extracted by the special symbol determination random number extracting means 611 is held in the second holding means 613 ( Step S8626). Specifically, in this second start storage storing process, a special symbol hit determination random number, a variable display pattern determination random number, and the like are stored as start information in the start information storage area for the special figure hold in the main internal RAM. . Note that after the second start storage storage process (step S8626) is executed, the second start detection process is terminated. The second start detection process is also ended when the second start detection flag is OFF (NO in step S8620) or when the special figure reservation ball count is 1 or more (NO in step S8624).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 51, when the special symbol lottery / variation start process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “0” (step S8630). The second job flag is a flag for instructing a processing stage relating to a special symbol. Here, when the symbol variation of the special symbol is not performed (for example, the state where the demonstration screen is displayed on the effect display device 115), the second job flag is set to “0”. If the second job flag is not “0” (NO in step S8630), the special symbol lottery / variation start process is performed because other processing related to the special symbol (for example, during the special symbol variation) is being performed. Exit.

  If the second job flag is “0” (YES in step S8630), it is further determined whether or not there is a second start-up memory in second holding means 613 (step S8632). If there is a second start memory (YES in step S8632), a second start memory transfer process is executed (step S8634). Specifically, in the second start memory transition process, the start information stored in the start information storage block with special figure hold is read out and stored in a predetermined processing area. If the second start memory is 0 in step S8632 (NO in step S8632), the special symbol lottery / variation start process is terminated.

  After performing the second start memory transition process in step S8634, it is determined whether or not the hit determination random number of the start information stored in the predetermined processing area is a big hit value (step S8636). At this time, if it is a big hit value (YES in step S8636), the big hit flag is turned ON (step S8638). The big hit flag is a flag that is set when a big win is won in the special symbol lottery. On the other hand, if it is not a big hit value (NO in step S8636), it is determined whether or not the hit determination random number is a small hit value (step S8640). At this time, if it is a small hit value (YES in step S8640), the small hit flag is turned ON (step S8642). The small hit flag is a flag that is set when a small hit is won. If neither the big hit value nor the small hit value is determined (NO in step S8640), neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is turned ON (it remains OFF). Thereafter, “1” is set to the second job flag described above (step S8644), and the special symbol lottery / variation start process is terminated.

  In the present embodiment, only 337 types of special symbol hit determination random numbers are prepared. Of these hit determination random numbers, the two types of random number values coincide with the hit determination value (that is, the big hit value) indicating that the big hit is won, and 333 types of random number values are won for the small hit. Matches the hit determination value (that is, the small hit value), and matches the hit determination value indicating that the two types of random numbers are lost (losing). In other words, in the present embodiment, the probability of winning the jackpot is set much higher than the probability of winning the jackpot. However, it is not always necessary to prepare the random number value of the lose, and if the big win is not won, the random number may be always won.

  Thus, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, a big hit game occurs when the result of the determination process (special symbol lottery) by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a big hit. Further, even if the result of the determination process by the special symbol success / failure determination unit 612 is not a big hit, the result of the lottery by the special symbol success / failure determination unit 612 is a small hit and the game is placed in the specific area 343 of the rotary sorter 294 A big hit game is also generated when the ball is accepted.

  In other words, even if the result of the determination process by the special symbol winning / failing determination means 612 is not a big win, the player wins almost a small winning (always wins a small winning if there is no losing) and wins the upper winning prize opening 141. An opportunity to accept the played game ball in the specific area 343 (that is, an opportunity to generate a big hit game) is given. When the result of the determination process by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a big hit, the big big prize game 141 is generated without opening and closing the top big winning opening 141.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 52, when the special symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “1” (step S8650). If the second job flag is not “1” (NO in step S8650), the special symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is terminated.

  If the second job flag is “1” (YES in step S8650), it is further determined whether or not the aforementioned jackpot flag is ON (step S8652). At this time, if the big hit flag is ON (YES in step S8652), a special symbol lottery big hit variation display pattern which is a variable display pattern corresponding to the big win lottery result is selected (step S8654). More specifically, any one of the tables 7 to 9 of the list of variable display patterns to be described later is selected and determined. In step S8654, the stop (lighting) mode of the special symbol display 332 (LED 87) is also determined.

  If the big hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8652), it is further determined whether or not the aforementioned small hit flag is ON (step S8656). At this time, if the small hit flag is ON (YES in step S8656), a special symbol lottery small hit variation display pattern which is a variation display pattern corresponding to the lottery lottery result is selected (step S8658). Specifically, any one of the tables 4 to 6 of the list of variable display patterns to be described later is selected and determined. In step S8656, the stop (lighting) mode of special symbol display 332 (LED 87) is also determined.

  On the other hand, if the small hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8856), since both the big hit flag and the small hit flag are OFF, the special symbol lottery variation is a variation display pattern corresponding to the lottery result of the loss. A display pattern is selected (step S8660). Specifically, any one of the tables 1 to 43 of the list of variable display patterns to be described later is selected and determined. In step S8660, the stop (lighting) mode of special symbol display 332 (LED 87) is also determined.

  Thereafter, any one of the special symbol lottery big change display pattern, the special symbol lottery small change display pattern, and the special symbol lottery change display pattern is selected as a winning information command (i.e. The command is set together with a command indicating any one of big hit, small hit and lost (step S8662). In addition, a special symbol lottery large fluctuation display pattern, a special symbol lottery small fluctuation display pattern, and a special symbol lottery fluctuation display pattern can be used. (Step S8664), and the special figure LED operation flag is set to ON (step S8666). When the special symbol LED operation flag is set to ON, symbol variation on the special symbol display 332 (LED 87) is started. Thereafter, “2” is set in the second job flag described above (step S8668), and the special symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is terminated.

  By the way, the variation display pattern set in the special symbol lottery variation display pattern setting process is transmitted to the sub integrated board 763 by the sub integrated board command transmission process (step S92) shown in FIG.

  Here, a list of variable display patterns will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the jackpot flag is ON, Table 7 and Table 8 are selected and determined at a ratio of 30%, and Table 9 is selected and determined at a ratio of 40%. When the table 7 is selected and determined, the music A is output, when the table 8 is selected and determined, the music B is output, and when the table 9 is selected and determined, the music C is output. In any of the tables 7, 8 and 9, the display pattern is selected and determined as one of the following display patterns: “pause after temporary stop with“ prelude ”” and “display big win after singing”. However, five display patterns are stored as these display patterns. In other words, the display pattern is selected and determined from any of 10 display patterns in total, including 5 patterns of “Pre-play” after a pause and a jackpot display after singing and 5 patterns of “Big hit display after singing”. The

  When both the big hit flag and the small hit flag are OFF, Table 1 and Table 2 are selected and determined at a ratio of 40%, and Table 3 is selected and determined at a ratio of 20%. When table 1 is selected and determined, song A is output, when table 2 is selected and determined, song B is output, and when table 3 is selected and determined, song C is output. In Table 1, Table 2, and Table 3, any of the five display patterns “Stop at Prelude” is selected and determined.

  When the small hit flag is ON, Table 4 and Table 5 are selected and determined at a ratio of 40%, and Table 6 is selected and determined at a ratio of 20%. When table 4 is selected and determined, song A is output, when table 5 is selected and determined, song B is output, and when table 6 is selected and determined, song C is output.

  In Table 4, Table 5, and Table 6, the variation display pattern is any one of 10 variation display patterns (10 patterns “stop at“ first phrase ”” to “stop at“ 10th phrase ”). , Each is selected and determined with the same probability (10%).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 54, when the special chart changing process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “2” (step S8670). If the second job flag is not “2” (NO in step S 8670), the special figure changing process is terminated. On the other hand, if the second job flag is “2” (YES in step S 8670), it is further determined whether or not the variation time set in the timer in step S 8660 has expired (step S 8672). If the variation time set in the timer has not expired (NO in step S8672), the special figure variation processing is terminated.

  If the variation time set in the timer has expired (YES in step S8672), the special figure LED operation flag is set to OFF (step S8674). When the special symbol LED operation flag is set to OFF, the symbol variation on the special symbol indicator 332 (LED 87) is terminated. Then, the symbol variation of the special symbol executed by the sub-integrated board 763 is stopped, and a confirmation stop command (deleting a specific example) for confirming and displaying the lottery result is set on the effect display device 115 (step S8676). This fixed stop command is transmitted to the sub-integrated board 763 by the sub-integrated board command transmission process (step S92) shown in FIG.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is ON (step S8678). If the big hit flag is ON (YES in step S 8678), “4” is set to the second job flag described above (step S 8680), and the special figure changing process ends. On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8678), it is determined whether or not the small hit flag is ON (step S8682). If the small hit flag is ON (YES in step S8682), “3” is set to the above-described second job flag (step S8864), and the special figure changing process ends. On the other hand, if neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is ON (NO in step S8682), the above-described second job flag is set to “0” (step S8866), and the special figure changing process ends.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 55, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “3” when the small winning combination actuating process is started (step S8690). If the second job flag is not “3” (NO in step S 8690), the small winning combination actuating process is terminated.

  If the second job flag is “3” (YES in step S 8690), a small hit release effect pattern command that is a command for instructing an effect pattern corresponding to the small hit executed by the sub-integrated board 763 is transmitted (step S 8690). S8692). Specifically, the sub-integrated board 763, which has received the small hit opening effect pattern command, displays an effect pattern on the effect display device 115 that makes the player aim the upper prize winning opening 141. Will be described later.

  Then, the operating time of the movable piece 142 (the opening time of the upper prize winning opening 141) is set in the timer (the first timer for opening the small hitting is set) (step S8694), and the movable piece 142 is moved by the big winning opening opening / closing mechanism 335. It is operated to perform the upper special electric accessory opening control for opening the upper prize winning opening 141 (step S 8696). Then, it is determined whether or not a prize has been won in the center accessory 91 based on whether or not a game ball is detected by the prize opening sensor 330 (step S8698). When winning in the center bonus 91 (YES in step S8698), a bonus input signal indicating winning in the center bonus 91 is output to the sub-integrated board 763 (step S8700). Based on the accessory input signal, a predetermined effect operation is performed in the effect display device 115 or the like.

  Then, a timer that counts the elapsed time since the game ball has won the upper prize winning opening 141 is set (set a second timer for releasing a small hit) (step S8702), and whether the upper prize winning opening 141 is open. It is determined whether or not the movable piece 142 is in an open state (step S8704). If the top prize winning opening 141 is open (YES in step S8704), it is determined whether or not the small hit release first timer has passed a predetermined time (step S8706). If the small hit opening first timer has elapsed (YES in step S8706), the upper special electric combination for operating the movable piece 142 by the special prize opening / closing mechanism 335 and closing the upper special prize opening 141 is performed. Object closing control is performed (step S8708).

  After the upper special electric accessory closing control (step S8708) is executed, if the upper prize winning opening 141 is not being opened (NO in step S8704), or if the predetermined time has not elapsed in the small hit opening second timer (NO in step S8706), it is determined whether or not a game ball is detected by the V winning sensor 331 (that is, the V winning sensor 331 is ON) (step S8710). If the V winning sensor 331 is ON (YES in step S8710), an in-function specific detection signal indicating that a game ball has won in the specific area 343 in the center bonus 91 is output to the sub-integrated board 763 (step S8710). In step S8712), the sub-integrated board 763 performs a predetermined effect operation in the effect display device 115 and the like based on the in-object specific detection signal. Then, the small hit game big hit flag is turned ON (step S8714), the above-mentioned second job flag is set to “4” (step S8682), and the small hit bonus item operation processing is ended. The small hit game big hit flag is a flag that is set when the big hit is won via the small hit game.

  On the other hand, if the V winning sensor 331 is not ON (NO in step S8710), it is determined whether or not a game ball is detected by the discharge sensor 313 (that is, the discharge sensor 313 is ON) (step S8718). If the discharge sensor 313 is not ON (NO in step S8718), it is further determined whether or not the small hit release second timer has passed a predetermined time (here, 20 seconds) (step S8720). If the predetermined time has passed for the small hit release second timer (YES in step S8720), since the elapsed time from winning the top prize winning port 141 has passed 20 seconds, a discharge detection signal described later is output. (Step S8722), “0” is set to the second job flag described above (step S8726), and the small winning combination actuating process is terminated. As a result, when 20 seconds elapse after the game ball wins the specific area 343 (that is, V winning), the process proceeds to the next process regardless of whether or not the game ball remains in the center accessory 91. Is possible. If the small hit release second timer has not passed the predetermined time (NO in step S8720), the process returns to step S8704.

  On the other hand, if the discharge sensor 313 is ON (YES in step S8718), it means that the game ball has won the normal area 344 in the center accessory 91. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the number of detections (winning number) by the winning mouth sensor 330 and the number of detections (discharge number) by the discharge sensor 313 are the same. (Step S8724). If the number of winnings and the number of discharges are the same (YES in step S8724), a discharge detection signal indicating that the game balls have been discharged from the center accessory 91 is output to the sub-integrated board 763 (step S8722). ), The sub-integrated board 763 performs a predetermined effect operation in the effect display device 115 or the like based on the discharge detection signal. Then, “0” is set to the above-described second job flag (step S8726), and the small winning combination actuating process is terminated. On the other hand, if the number of winnings and the number of discharges are not the same (NO in step S8724), it indicates that the game balls have not been discharged from the center accessory 91, and the process returns to step S8704.

  If no prize has been won in the center bonus item 91 (NO in step S8698), it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed for the first timer for small hit release (step S8728). If the predetermined time for the small hit release first timer has elapsed (YES in step S8728), the upper special electric accessory closing control is performed in the same manner as described above to close the upper prize winning opening 141 (step S8729). On the other hand, when the small hit release second timer has not passed the predetermined time (NO in step S8706), the process returns to step S8698.

  Here, the operation principle of the small hit game will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the normal gaming state, when the small hit flag is ON, when the special symbol change stops, it passes through a predetermined interval period (the period from the end of the special symbol change until the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened). Then, the top large winning opening 141 is opened, the detection timer of the winning opening sensor 330 is activated, and the solenoid 400 is turned ON. As a result, when a game ball wins the upper large winning opening 141, a winning opening is detected by the winning opening sensor 330, and the carry-in piece 341 changes from the input position to the receiving position. The detection timer is activated when the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened because the game ball is forcibly awarded to the upper winning prize opening 141 due to fraud etc. even though the upper prize winning opening 141 is not opened. This is to prevent detection when it is made to occur. The reason why the solenoid 400 is turned on when the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened is to extend the life of the solenoid 400 by shortening the energization time. Accordingly, the carry-in piece 341 is always in the loading position, and becomes the receiving position after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened.

  The upper large winning opening 141 is opened for a maximum of 1600 ms, for example, but is closed when a winning of a game ball is detected by the winning opening sensor 330 during opening. The winning opening sensor 330 is provided in the middle of the guide passage 340, and a predetermined time is required until the game ball reaches the winning opening sensor 330 after winning the game ball at the upper large winning opening 141. Therefore, the operating time of the detection timer of the winning prize opening sensor 330 is set longer than the opening time of the upper large winning opening 141. In the present embodiment, the operating time of the detection timer of the winning opening sensor 330 is set to 3100 ms after the upper large winning opening 141 is opened. Further, the upper university winning opening 141 is closed when one game ball is won, but it takes a predetermined time from the game ball winning the upper university winning opening 141 to the winning opening sensor 330. In some cases, two or three balls may be won. However, only one game ball can be held in the carry-in piece 341, and the second and subsequent game balls are discharged from the discharge port 348 when the carry-in piece 341 reaches the input position.

  Further, the solenoid 400 turns from ON to OFF after 3600 ms has elapsed since the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened. When the solenoid 400 is turned from ON to OFF, the loading piece 341 changes from the receiving position to the loading position, and the game ball held in the loading piece 341 reaches the inflow port 347 and is received in the specific area 343 or the normal area 344. The reason that the time during which the solenoid 400 is ON is longer than the operation time of the detection timer of the winning port sensor 330 is that the game ball detected by the winning port sensor 330 is discharged from the outlet 348 without reaching the inlet 347. This is to prevent this from happening. As described above, one game ball that has won the upper prize winning opening 141 surely reaches the inflow port 347 and is surely accepted in either the specific area 343 or the normal area 344.

  By the way, the solenoid 400 is switched from ON to OFF after a certain time of 3600 ms has elapsed since the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, which is unchanged. However, the timing at which a game ball wins the upper university winning opening 141 is different each time. Therefore, the player wins the game ball in the top prize winning opening 141 even though the time from when the top winning prize opening 141 is opened until the carry-in piece 341 is displaced from the receiving position to the throwing position is constant. There is a possibility of an illusion that the specific area 343 can be accepted depending on the timing of the movement. This is because the time from when the game ball is won to the upper university winning opening 141 (after the upper university winning opening 141 is closed) until the carry-in piece 341 is displaced from the receiving position to the inserting position is different each time. Is due to. In other words, whether or not it is accepted by the specific area 343 is not something that can be operated by the player himself, but is determined by an interval pattern (to be described later) selected and determined, The illusion is that there is a possibility of being accepted by the specific area 343 depending on the timing of winning. This is caused by closing the upper prize winning opening 141 when the winning opening sensor 330 detects that one game ball has won the upper prize winning opening 141.

  By the way, the main control MPU 765a in the present embodiment is based on the fact that the result of the special symbol lottery in the normal gaming state is a small hit (YES in step S8640), after the variation of the special symbol stops, Interval pattern determining means 624 is provided for determining the time required for the interval until the release. The interval refers to the time when the special symbol variation is stopped and the image indicating that it is a small hit is displayed on the effect display device 115, and the movable piece 142 operates in such a manner that the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened. This is the time until the game ball can be received into the upper prize winning opening 141. The interval pattern determination means 624 includes a normal time determination means 625, a high probability advantage determination means 626, and a low probability advantage time determination means 627.

  Here, FIG. 76 is an interval pattern table referred to when the interval pattern is determined by the interval pattern determining means 624. This interval pattern table is stored in the ROM of the main control board 765.

  In the normal gaming state, the interval pattern table in FIG. At this time, as to which of 10 interval patterns is selected, each of the interval patterns is selected with a probability of 128/1280 (1/10).

  Further, the number of interval patterns (10 patterns) matches the reciprocal of the theoretical acceptance probability for the specific area 343 formed in the rotary sorter 294. One of the 10 interval patterns corresponds to the specific area 343. That is, among the 10 interval patterns, the rotary sorter 294 (rotary body 297) is selected from any one of the specific regions 343 between the time differences between the pattern having the shortest interval time and the pattern having the longest interval time. The rotary sorter 294 rotates to the normal area 344 immediately before the next specific area 343 in the rotation direction. In other words, the rotation of the rotary sorter 294 causes any one specific region 343 to pass through the inflow port 347 and then the normal region 344 immediately before the next specific region 343 passes through the inflow port 347. The time until is equivalent to the time of the difference between the pattern having the longest interval time and the pattern having the shortest interval time.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 76, the 10 interval patterns include the first pattern (1080 ms), the second pattern (1440 ms), the third pattern (1800 ms), the fourth pattern (2160 ms), and the fifth pattern ( 2520 ms), the sixth pattern (2880 ms), the seventh pattern (3240 ms), the eighth pattern (3600 ms), the ninth pattern (3960 ms), and the tenth pattern (4320 ms). Note that the time in the parentheses is the interval time.

  Thus, the time difference between the pattern having the shortest interval time and the pattern having the longest interval time is 3240 ms. In the rotary sorter 294, any one specific area 343 always passes through the inlet 347 (see FIG. 24) during this 3240 ms (any one specific area 343 and the inlet 347 ( (See FIG. 24). Any one of the 10 interval patterns is set to a time during which a game ball that has won a prize at the upper prize winning opening 141 is always accepted by the carry-in piece 341 into the specific area 343.

  Also, the game ball held in the carry-in piece 341 is lifted to the inflow port 347 (that is, the carry-in piece 341 is moved from the receiving position to the throw-in position (in other words, the storage of the game ball is released). )), After a certain period of time (3600 ms) has passed since the upper prize winning opening 141 opened. Therefore, the theoretical acceptance probability that the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received in the specific area 343 is always 1/10 regardless of the winning timing at the special symbol starting opening 82 or the variation time of the special symbol. It becomes. That is, whether or not a game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received by the carry-in piece 341 in the specific area 343 is determined only by which interval pattern is selected from among the 10 interval patterns.

  In order for the theoretical acceptance probability that a game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is always received by the specific area 343, the inverse of the theoretical acceptance probability to the specific area 343 and the interval The number of patterns does not necessarily have to be the same, and the number of interval patterns to be selected and determined may be an integer multiple of the reciprocal of the theoretical acceptance probability for the specific region 343.

  Here, the theory that the theoretical acceptance probability that the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received in the specific area 343 by the carry-in piece 341 is always constant (in this embodiment, 1/10) will be described.

  According to the present embodiment, the inflow port 347 (see FIG. 24) and the specific area 343 face each other at a fixed time (4000 ms in the present embodiment) (that is, the winning timing is shifted every fixed time). In addition, this fixed time corresponds to a value obtained by multiplying the number of interval patterns (10 patterns in the present embodiment) and a time difference between the interval patterns (corresponding to the predetermined time described below, 400 ms in the present embodiment). To do. The specific time as the winning timing (the time at which the game ball that won the upper prize winning port 141 when the winning timing of one time is lost can be received by the specific area 343, 400 ms in this embodiment) is each interval. The time is almost the same as the pattern time difference. Expressed by a mathematical expression, a certain time is T [ms], the number of interval pattern patterns is N [pieces], a predetermined time is Δs [ms], a specific time is t [ms], and a winning interval pattern (top prize winning opening 141 When the number of game balls won in the specified area 343 is an n pattern, both “T × α≈N × Δs” and “t × α≈n × Δs” are satisfied. Is a requirement. However, α is a constant (integer), and when n = 1 as in this embodiment, α = 1.

  When both the above formulas are established, the value obtained by dividing n (1 in the present embodiment), which is the number of winning interval patterns, by the number N of patterns of a plurality of interval patterns (1/10 in the present embodiment) is constant. The ratio of the specific time t to the time T (1/10 in this embodiment) is the same time. As a result, one of the plurality of interval patterns (interval pattern that is the winning timing) is selected unless the interval pattern determining unit 624 selects and determines the interval pattern so that it is intentionally biased to any one of the interval patterns. Only when it is determined, one game ball out of the game balls received from the upper prize winning opening 141 is guided to the mechanical lottery device (rotary sorting device 294) at the winning timing. That is, the relational expression “n / N = t / T” (n = 1 in the present embodiment) is established, and the specific area 343 is entered regardless of the winning timing at the special symbol start port 82 and the variation time of the special symbol. The probability of accepting a game ball is always constant.

  Therefore, the ratio of the number n of the winning interval patterns to the number N of the plurality of interval patterns (in this embodiment, 10 minutes) regardless of the timing of accepting the game ball to the special symbol start opening 82 and the variation time of the special symbols. 1) and the ratio of the specific time t to the constant time T (1/10 in this embodiment) are substantially the same. Therefore, since the probability that a big hit game will occur does not change depending on the skill of the player, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that ensures fairness for any player. Note that “substantially the same” means that it is sufficient that the probability that a big hit game is generated changes depending on the skill of the player, but it is preferable that they are very close to each other.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, when the small hit flag is ON in the normal gaming state, depending on which interval pattern is selected and determined from among a plurality of interval patterns (10 patterns having different interval times), The interval time from the end of the change of the special symbol to the opening of the top prize winning opening 141 is different. Here, the winning interval pattern is only one pattern among the ten interval patterns. In addition, as to which interval pattern is selected and determined from among a plurality of interval patterns, any interval pattern is selected and determined with the same probability (that is, the probability of selecting and determining any interval pattern is 10). 1). Moreover, the operation of the rotating body 297 is started when the variation of the special symbol is finished. Further, the time from when the upper prize winning opening 141 is released until the game ball held (stopped) in the carry-in piece 341 is released (stopped) is always a fixed time (3600 ms in this embodiment). . Therefore, whether or not the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received in the specific area 343 depends on which interval pattern is selected and determined from among a plurality of interval patterns (10 patterns in the present embodiment), The probability (probability that a game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is accepted by the specific area 343) is the reciprocal (one-tenth) of the number of interval patterns.

  By the way, in this embodiment, the inflow port 347 (see FIG. 24) and the specific area 343 face each other at a certain time (4000 ms in this embodiment) (that is, the winning timing shifts every certain time). The rotary sorter 294 operates at regular intervals at regular intervals, and the winning timing is shifted at least once within one period (one rotation). If the following conditions are satisfied, the opening and closing device can be used regardless of the timing at which the special symbol changes (that is, the timing at which the game ball wins the special symbol start port 82) or the special symbol fluctuation time. The theoretical probability that a game ball won in the winning opening 141 is accepted by the specific area 343 is always constant.

  In the present embodiment, when the top prize winning opening 141 is opened, the winning timing is shifted at least once in one cycle in which the rotary sorter 294 operates at a regular cycle at regular intervals. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and after the upper prize winning unit 141 as an opening / closing device is opened, the upper prize winning opening 141 is closed without any delay in the winning timing. Also good.

  By the way, there is a possibility that the theoretical acceptance probability of a game ball in the specific area 343 can be increased by winning a special ball at the special symbol starting port 82 at a specific timing. More specifically, when the result of the determination process in step S8640 in FIG. 51 is a small hit, the game ball held in the carry-in piece 341 is raised to the inflow port 347 after the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened. The time is constant. Therefore, if the time from when the game ball is won at the special symbol starting port 82 until the upper prize port 141 is released is assumed to be constant, the theoretical acceptance probability of the game ball into the specific area 343 is increased. Can be done. However, in the present embodiment, 10 interval patterns having different interval times are stored. That is, the time from the end of the change of the special symbol to the opening of the top prize winning opening 141 varies depending on the interval pattern selected and determined. Further, the inverse number of the theoretical acceptance probability for the specific area 343 when the rotational speed of the rotary sorter 294 is constant is the same as the number of interval patterns. Further, the time of any one of the 10 patterns is the timing at which the specific area 343 passes through the inflow port 347 and the game ball held in the carry-in piece 341 is raised to the inflow port 347. Since the timing is set to match, the theoretical acceptance probability to the specific area 343 is always constant regardless of the winning timing of the game ball at the special symbol start opening 82 and the variation time of the special symbol. It becomes 1/10. As a result, in the normal gaming state, it becomes impossible to play a game with the aim of accepting a game ball in the specific area 343. Therefore, regardless of the skill of the player, the specific area The theoretical acceptance probability of a game ball to 343 does not change.

  By the way, conventionally, when a game ball is received from a predetermined opening / closing device, for example, the game ball rolls around a plurality of selection openings formed inside the rotary type accessory, and the game ball is specified. In general, a mechanical lottery process is performed to determine whether or not a winning entry is accepted. In such a conventional gaming machine, it is very difficult to predict a lottery result until a game ball is actually received in one of the selection ports. Conversely, a player wins a mechanical lottery. The pleasure of predicting whether or not was completely undermined.

  In this regard, in the present embodiment, the game balls that have won the upper prize winning opening 141 are once held by the carry-in piece 341 and then put into the rotary sorter 294 at a predetermined timing to perform mechanical lottery. . Therefore, it is possible to predict to some extent in advance whether or not the game ball is distributed to the specific area 343 depending on the timing when the game ball is thrown in by the carry-in piece 341 without causing the game ball to rotate unnecessarily during mechanical lottery. It is. In other words, the player not only has the pleasure of predicting the winning of the mechanical lottery, but can get more excitement and joy when the prediction is a winning. Also, the timing at which the game ball is thrown in by the carry-in piece 341 is always after a certain period of time has elapsed since the opening and closing device is in the open state. I don't embrace it.

  Further, in the conventional gaming machine, an image effect is executed by the effect display device 115 based on a winning at the special symbol start opening 82, while a mechanical lottery is performed when the mechanical lottery process is performed in parallel. The player's interest is concentrated only on the movement of the game ball used in the game, and the image production on the production display device 115 is meaningless. However, in this embodiment, the time from when a game ball is won to the upper prize winning opening 141 until the game ball is distributed to any area by the rotary sorter 294 is the predetermined opening and closing of the game ball in a conventional gaming machine. The time from when it is received by the apparatus until it is distributed to one of the selection ports by the rotary type tool is significantly shorter. That is, in this embodiment, when the mechanical lottery is performed, the movement of the game ball is not interesting, but the game ball received from the opening / closing device is merely rolled to the mechanical lottery device. . Therefore, even if the image effect and the mechanical lottery on the effect display device 115 are executed at the same time, it is possible to afford time enough to watch the image effect and the movement of the game ball at different timings. The image production at 115 does not become meaningless, and the player can enjoy the mechanical lottery with peace of mind.

[Highly favorable condition]
As described above, when a small win is won in the normal gaming state, any one of the 10 interval patterns is selected and determined with a probability of 1/10, whereby the top prize winning port 141 is selected. The probability that a game ball that won a prize will be accepted by the specific area 343 is one-tenth.

  On the other hand, when a small win is won in the highly probable advantageous state, the interval pattern table of FIG. 76 is referred to, and the highly probable advantageous time determining means 626 always selects any one of the five specific patterns. The interval pattern is selected and determined. In this embodiment, when winning a small hit in the highly probable advantageous state, the sixth pattern (2880 ms), the seventh pattern (3240 ms), the eighth pattern (3600 ms), the ninth pattern (3960 ms), and the One of the 10 patterns (4320 ms) is selected and determined.

  Here, as described above, the rotating body 297 is stopped in a state where the specific region 343 faces the inflow port 347, and after 3600 ms has elapsed since the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, the upper prize winning opening. The game ball won in 141 is lifted to the inlet 347 by the carry-in piece 341. Therefore, when the 8th pattern with an interval time of 3600 ms is selected and determined, the time from the end of the change in the special symbol to the time when the game ball that has won the upper prize winning port 141 is raised to the inflow port 347 is: The sum (7200 ms) of the interval time (3600 ms) and the time (3600 ms) from when the upper prize winning opening 141 is released until the game ball that has won the upper prize winning opening 141 is raised to the inlet 347 by the carry-in piece 341 )

  In addition, the rotation of the rotating body 297 starts from the position where the specific area 343 and the inflow port 347 face each other (the position of 46.5 minutes) when the variation of the special symbol is finished. Further, since the rotational speed of the rotating body 297 is 10800 ms and the number of the special areas 343 is 3, when a time that is an integral multiple of 3600 ms has elapsed from when the rotation of the rotating body 297 is started, The special region 343 and the inflow port 347 are opposed to each other.

  As described above, when the small win is won and the interval time is selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms) in the highly probable advantageous state, when the variation of the special symbol is finished (the rotation of the rotating body 297 is started). The time (7200 ms) from when the game ball won at the upper prize winning opening 141 is raised to the inflow port 347 is an integral multiple of 3600 ms. Therefore, when the 8th pattern is selected and determined by the highly probable advantageous time determining means 626, the game balls that have won the upper prize winning opening 141 are always displayed in the special area by the game ball carry-in device 380 (see FIG. 24). 343 and the inflow port 347 are lifted at the timing of facing each other (that is, a big hit game is generated).

  On the other hand, if the sixth pattern (2880 ms) is selected and decided, the game ball that won the top university winning opening 141 should have been accepted if the eighth pattern (3600 ms) was selected and decided. It is received in the normal area 344 two before the special area 343. The normal area 344 that is two before is the normal area 344c (see FIG. 24) that is adjacent to the special area 343 on the rotation direction (clockwise) side of the rotating body 297.

  If the seventh pattern (3240 ms) is selected and determined, the special ball 343 that would have been accepted if the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 was selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms). Is received in the normal area 344 one before. The normal area 344 one before is a normal area 344 that is adjacent to the rotation area (clockwise) side of the rotating body 297 with respect to the special area 343.

  If the ninth pattern (3960 ms) is selected and determined, the special ball 343 that would have been accepted if the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 was selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms). Is received in the normal area 344 one after. The next normal area 344 is a normal area 344 adjacent to the special area 343 on the opposite side to the rotation direction (clockwise) of the rotating body 297.

  Furthermore, when the 10th pattern (4320 ms) is selected and determined, the special area 343 that should have been accepted if the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is selected and determined in the 8th pattern (3600 ms). Is received in the normal area 344 two behind. The normal area 344 that is two behind is an adjacent normal area 344d (see FIG. 24) adjacent to the side opposite to the rotation direction (clockwise) of the rotating body 297 relative to the special area 343.

  In this embodiment, when winning a small hit in the highly probable advantageous state, the highly probable advantageous time determining means 626 selects and determines the sixth pattern (2880 ms) with a probability of 80/1280 (1/16), The second pattern (3240 ms) is selected and determined with a probability of 240/1280 (3/16), and the eighth pattern (3600 ms) is selected and determined with a probability of 640/1280 (1/2). The third pattern (3960 ms) is selected with a probability of 320 (3/16 ms), and the sixth pattern (2880 ms) is selected with a probability of 80/280 (1/16). That is, if a winning is made once per small win in the highly probable advantageous state, as long as a game ball wins in the upper winning hole 141 when the upper winning hole 141 is opened based on the winning of the small win, A big hit game will be generated with a probability of one-half for each winning. Therefore, in the highly probable advantageous state, the lottery by the rotary sorter 294 is performed in a mode in which a big hit game is more likely to occur than in the normal gaming state (a mode advantageous to the player) (as described above, In the game state, a big hit game is generated with a probability of one-half for each win per small win).

  In the present embodiment, when the highly probable state is reached, the highly probable state continues until the special symbol change (special symbol lottery) is performed twice. Here, the probability that a big hit game will occur at the first small hit (the probability that the eighth pattern will be selected and decided at the time of the first small hit win) is that the big hit game will occur at the 1/2 small hits Probability (6th pattern, 7th pattern, 9th pattern and 10th pattern are selected and determined at the time of the 1st small win, and the 8th pattern is selected and determined at the time of the 2nd small win. (Probability) is 1/4, so the probability that a big hit game will occur in a highly probable advantageous state is 3/4 (75%). On the other hand, the probability of ending this highly probable advantageous state without generating a big hit game in the highly probable advantageous state (the sixth pattern, the seventh pattern in both the first small hit win and the second small hit win, The probability that any one of the ninth pattern and the tenth pattern is selected and determined) is ¼ (25%). In this way, it is possible to realize a mechanism in which the probability that a big hit game will occur in a highly probable advantageous state is 75%.

[About low-probability advantage]
Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, as the advantageous state, a low-probability advantageous state is prepared in addition to the above-described highly-probable advantageous state. When winning a small hit in this low probability advantageous state, the interval pattern table of FIG. 76 is referred to and the low probability advantageous time determining means 627 is always the same as when winning a small hit in the high probability advantageous state. Any one of the five patterns is selected and determined. That is, when a small win is won in the low probability advantageous state, the sixth pattern (2880 ms), the seventh pattern (3240 ms), the eighth pattern (3600 ms), the ninth pattern (3960 ms) and the tenth pattern ( 4320 ms) is selected and determined as one of the interval patterns.

  As described above, when winning a small hit in the low-probability advantageous state, one of the same five patterns as in the case of winning a small hit in the high-probability gaming state is selected and determined. As can be seen, the probability of being selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms) is 128/1280 (1/10) as in the normal gaming state. The probability that the sixth pattern (2880 ms) is selected and determined is 128/1280, the probability that the seventh pattern (3240 ms) is selected and determined is 448/1280, and the probability that the ninth pattern (3960 ms) is selected and determined. Is 448/1280, and the probability of being selected and determined for the tenth pattern (4320 ms) is 128/1280. Therefore, when a small win is won in the low probability advantageous state, the probability of being selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms) (the probability that a game ball won in the big winning opening 141 is accepted by the specific area 343) is a normal game. Although it is the same as when winning a small hit in the state, in the normal areas 344a and 344b (see FIG. 24) adjacent to the special area 343 that should have been accepted if selected and determined in the eighth pattern (3600 ms), The probability that a game ball won in the big prize opening 141 will be accepted is the highest.

  Therefore, when a small win is won in the low probability advantageous state, the probability that the game ball won in the big winning opening 141 is accepted by the specific area 343 is the same as when the small win is won in the normal gaming state. First, a specific area (two normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to both sides of the special area 343, a normal area 344c two before the special area 343, and a normal area 344d two behind the special area 343 (both shown in FIG. The player is in a state of being regrettable by being accepted in any of the normal areas, and in the normal game state, in the high probability advantage state, and in the low probability advantage state. The operation mode of the body 297 is the same, so that in a low-probability advantageous state, the game ball won in the big winning opening 141 is received in the specific area 343. Even though the probability is the same as when it was elected to Koatari in the normal gaming state, it is possible to give a sense of expectation, such as if there is indeed a high 確有 interest state to the player.

  The rotating body 297 stops in a state where the specific area 343 faces the inflow port 347 regardless of the gaming state, and after 3600 ms has elapsed since the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, the upper prize winning opening. The game ball won in 141 is lifted to the inlet 347 by the carry-in piece 341. In addition, the rotating body 297 rotates clockwise from the position where the specific area 343 and the inflow port 347 face (position of 46.5 minutes) when the change of the special symbol is finished regardless of the gaming state. Be started. Furthermore, since the rotational speed of the rotating body 297 is 10800 ms and the number of the special areas 343 is 3, when a time that is an integral multiple of 3600 ms has elapsed since the rotation of the rotating body 297 is started, As described above, the special region 343 and the inflow port 347 face each other.

  As described above, although the operation mode of the rotating body 297 is the same between the normal gaming state, the high probability advantageous state, and the low probability advantageous state, the small hit in the high probability advantageous state. When the winning is won, the probability that the game ball won in the upper large winning opening 141 is received in the special area 343 is higher than that in the normal gaming state or the low probability advantageous state. In addition, even if a game ball won in the upper grand prize opening 141 is not accepted in the special area 343, it is accepted in any one of the two normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to both sides of the special area 343. , It will be regrettable for the player. In addition, when a small win is won in the low probability advantageous state, the probability that the game ball won in the upper prize winning port 141 is accepted by the special area 343 is the same probability as when the small win is won in the normal gaming state. , The game ball that won the upper grand prize opening 141 is adjacent to the two normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to both sides of the special area 343, the normal area 344c two before the special area 343, and the normal two behind the special area 343. It becomes a regrettable state for the player to be accepted in any one of the areas 344d.

  When a mechanical lottery (combination lottery) like the rotary sorter 294 of the present embodiment is performed, unlike the internal lottery, the player himself can visually recognize the lottery process. When a lottery is performed in a manner that is advantageous to the player in the lottery, the player may grasp that the lottery is advantageous to the player at a glance.

  However, in the present embodiment, the lottery structure by the rotator 297 is the same between the normal game state, the high probability advantage state, and the low probability advantage state (of the rotator 297). Even though the operation mode is the same), when the small win is won in the high probability advantageous state, the rotary sorter 294 is used more than when the small hit is won in the normal gaming state or the low probability advantageous state. The lottery for the feature is performed in an advantageous manner for the player. That is, when winning a small hit in the high probability advantageous state, it is more likely that a big hit will be generated by the lottery with the rotary sorter 294 than when winning the small hit in the normal gaming state or the low probability advantageous state. This makes it difficult for players to grasp. In addition, when winning a small hit in the low probability advantageous state, the probability that a big hit will be generated in the lottery by the rotary sorter 294 is the same as when winning a small hit in the normal gaming state. However, it is difficult for players to understand.

  As a result, it is difficult for the player to know whether or not the lottery by the rotating body 297 is advantageous to the player only by visually confirming the operating mode of the rotating body 297. Since the winning game balls are easily received in the special area 343 (even if they are not received in the special area 343, they are accepted in the normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent thereto) It is possible to create a state where the player feels “is it likely to occur?”.

  In addition, if the frequency at which the game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received in the special area 343 or in the vicinity thereof is increased, the player may be informed that the player is in a highly advantageous state. However, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, in addition to the fact that it is difficult for the player to grasp whether or not the lottery by the rotating body 297 is advantageous to the player only by visually confirming the operating mode of the rotating body 297, The probability that a game ball won in the special winning opening 141 is accepted in the special area 343 is made the same as that in the normal game state, and the special area 343, the normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to the special area 343, and the two previous normal areas 344c. Alternatively, since a low-accuracy advantageous state that can be accepted only in the two normal areas 344d is created, it is difficult for the player to know whether or not the lottery with the rotating body 297 is advantageous.

  That is, a normal gaming state in which a lottery is performed with a predetermined winning probability without being noticed by a player while adopting a role lottery by a rotary sorter 294 that can visually check the lottery process, and this normal gaming state It is possible to create a highly probable advantageous state in which a lottery is performed in a manner that is more advantageous to the player, and a low probable advantageous state as if the winning probability is the same as the normal gaming state but it is a highly probable advantageous state It becomes possible. The high probability advantage state and the low probability advantage state where the lottery is performed in an advantageous manner for such a player are the high probability advantage determination means 626, the low probability advantage determination means 627, the small hit game execution means 617, and Produced by the rotator drive means 405.

  In addition, the operating mode of the rotating body 297 is the same in the normal gaming state, in the high probability advantageous state, and in the low probability advantageous state. It is difficult to grasp whether or not the lottery by the sorter 294 is advantageous to the player) and whether or not the player is in a low-probability advantageous state by simply viewing the operating mode of the rotating body 297. It has become. Also, whether or not a game ball that has won a prize at the timing when the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened and is placed in the carry-in piece 341 enters the specific area 343 depends on whether the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened or not. Since the time until the piece 341 is lifted is an invariable constant time, it is determined by the position of the specific area 343 (that is, the interval time) when the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened. Thus, in the highly probable advantageous state, the player can grasp the operation mode of the rotating body 297 only by visually determining the operation mode of the rotating body 297 only by determining the specific interval pattern (any one of the sixth to tenth patterns). In this way, it is possible to increase the probability of generating a big hit game as compared to the normal game state and the low probability advantage state. In addition, just by determining the interval pattern to a specific interval pattern (any one of the sixth to tenth patterns), the probability of generating a big hit game is the same as that in the normal gaming state, but it seems to be a highly probable advantageous state. Since it is possible to create a low probability advantageous state that can give the player a sense of expectation that a big hit is likely to occur, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the player senses that the player is in the high probability advantageous state.

  Since the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294 does not change at all between the normal gaming state, the high probability advantageous state, and the low probability advantageous state, the normal time determination means 625 or When the 8th pattern (3600 ms) is selected and determined by the low probability advantageous time determination means 627, when the top prize winning opening 141 is opened based on the determination result by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 being a small hit. A game ball is won in the upper prize winning opening 141, and the game ball is once accommodated in the carry-in piece 341 and stopped. Then, the game ball is received in the specific area 343 and a big hit game is generated.

  As for “the operation mode of the rotator 297 is the same”, in this embodiment, the operation mode is the same between the normal game state, the high probability advantage state, and the low probability advantage state. As long as it looks the same in appearance from the player's point of view, it is sufficient. “The operation mode is the same” means that the rotation speed is the same for constant speed rotation, and the same period for the non-constant speed rotation.

  By the way, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, whether or not the advantageous state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the high probability advantageous state or the low probability advantageous state has been confirmed. Based on (for example, that a game ball has been received in the specific area 343 or that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit), it is determined by lottery. When it is determined that the high probability advantageous state is determined in the lottery, the high probability advantageous state is controlled while the time reduction function is operating, and when the low probability advantageous state is determined in the lottery, the time reduction is determined. While the function is activated, it is controlled to a low probability advantage state.

  In the advantageous state, it is not always necessary to activate the time reduction function. For example, the time reduction function may be activated after the big hit game is completed only when the condition for operating the time reduction function is satisfied. Further, even if the time-shortening function does not operate, the lottery mode in the accessory lottery is the same as that in the high-probability advantageous state although the time-shortening function does not operate (mode in the high-probability advantageous state in the interval pattern table of FIG. 76). It is good also as the gaming state (high probability normal state) where the character lottery is performed in the same manner as in the low probability advantageous state although the time reduction function does not operate (mode in the low probability advantageous state in the interval pattern table of FIG. 76). It is good also as a gaming state (low-probability normal state) in which an object lottery is performed.

  Also, even if the game is in the normal gaming state, when the condition for the advantageous state is satisfied, regardless of whether or not the big hit game is executed, the advantageous state in which the time-saving function is activated from the middle of the normal gaming state is set. You may do it. By doing so, it becomes possible for the player to play the game while having a sense of expectation that the player can always be in an advantageous state, and the decrease in interest can be suppressed. Further, at this time, it may be determined by lottery whether the high probability advantageous state or the low probability advantageous state is set.

  In addition, not only in the advantageous state after the big hit game is ended, but when a specific condition is satisfied in the normal gaming state, the high-probable advantageous state, the high-probable normal state, the low-probable advantageous state or the low-probable normal state In the gaming machine, the player grasps whether or not the game ball that has entered from the upper prize winning opening 141 easily enters the specific area 343 only by looking at the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294. It is difficult to do. Therefore, similarly to this, it is difficult for the player to grasp the state change between the game states only by looking at the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294. Thereby, it becomes possible to make the lottery contents sharp without giving distrust to the player with respect to the lottery itself. In addition, since it is difficult for the player to know the state change described above, even if the player is in the normal game state, the player is expected to have a game state (for example, a highly accurate normal state) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. A feeling can be given to the player.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 57, when the big hit opening process is started, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “4” (step S8730). If the second job flag is not “4” (NO in step S8730), the big hit opening process is terminated.

  If the second job flag is “4” (YES in step S8730), it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is ON (step S8732). Here, if the big hit flag is ON (YES in step S8732), it indicates that the big win is won by a combination of special symbols, so an effect pattern corresponding to the big hit start round executed by the sub-integrated board 763 is indicated. A jackpot opening command that is a command to be executed is set (step S8734). Specifically, the jackpot opening command is transmitted, and the sub-integrated board 763 that has received the command displays an effect pattern for starting the jackpot game on the effect display device 115. Then, a jackpot opening timer for counting the execution time of the jackpot game start round is set (step S8736), and “1” of the jackpot game start round is set in the round counter (step S8738). Then, “5” is set to the second job flag described above (step S8740), and the big hit opening process ends.

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not ON (NO in step S8732), it indicates that the big hit has been won through the specific area 343, so the big round game start round via the small hit game executed by the sub-integrated board 763 A small hit game big hit opening command which is a command for designating an effect pattern corresponding to is set (step S8742). Specifically, the command is transmitted as a small hit game big hit opening command, and the sub-integrated board 763 having received the command displays an effect pattern for starting the big hit game in an effect mode different from the big hit by a combination of special symbols. 115. Then, a big hit game big hit opening timer for counting the execution time of the big hit game start round is set (step S8744), and “2” of the big hit game start round is set in the round counter (step S8746). This is because “1” in the big hit game start round is considered to have already been executed by the opening operation of the top big prize opening 141 in the small hit game. Then, “5” is set to the second job flag described above (step S8740), and the big hit opening process ends.

  It should be noted that the effect pattern (big hit opening command and small hit game big hit opening command) set in the big hit opening process is transmitted to the sub integrated board 763 by the sub integrated board command transmission process (step S92) shown in FIG. .

  Next, as shown in FIG. 58, the main control MPU 765a determines whether or not the second job flag is “5” when the special electric utility big hit process (special game) is started (step S8750). ). If the second job flag is not “5” (NO in step S8750), the special electric utility jackpot process is terminated.

  If the second job flag is “5” (YES in step S8750), it is determined whether or not the big hit opening time counted by the big hit opening timer or the small hit game big hit opening timer has increased (step S8752). If the jackpot opening time is not up (NO in step S8752), the special electric utility jackpot process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the big hit opening time is up (YES in step S8752), the lower drive hole 83 (opening / closing device) is opened by the attacker drive mechanism 339 (step S8754). Then, it is determined whether or not the opening time of the opening / closing device has passed (step S8756), and if the opening time has passed (YES in step S8756), the lower large winning opening 83 (opening / closing device) is operated by the attacker drive mechanism 339. Is closed (step S8758). Even if the opening / closing time of the switchgear has not elapsed (NO in step S8756), if the maximum number of game balls is won in the switchgear (YES in step S8760), the attacker drive mechanism 339 lowers The side big prize opening 83 (opening / closing device) is closed (step S8758). If the maximum number of game balls has not won in the switchgear (NO in step S8760), the process returns to step S8756.

  After closing the lower large winning opening 83 (opening / closing device), it is determined whether the opening / closing operation of the opening device has reached a predetermined number of rounds (here, 15 rounds) (step S8762). Specifically, the determination of the number of rounds is executed based on whether or not the value stored in the round counter reaches “15”. If the predetermined number of rounds has been reached (YES in step S8762), the big hit flag (big hit flag or small hit game big hit flag) is set to OFF (step S8764). Then, “0” is set to the second job flag described above (step S8766), and the special electric accessory big hit process is terminated. On the other hand, if the predetermined number of rounds has not been reached (NO in step S8762), 1 is added to the round counter (step S8768). And the interval command which is a command which instruct | indicates the production | presentation pattern corresponding to the interval between the big hit game rounds performed by the sub integrated board 763 is transmitted (step S8770), and it returns to step S8754.

  By the way, although not shown, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a predetermined number of rounds is executed by the special electric utility big hit process (that is, a series of operations of the big hit game is executed)). On the condition, the short-time function activation process is executed as a post-process of the special electric utility jackpot process. The short-time function activation process is a process for variably setting the probability of accepting a game ball to the special symbol start port 82 to a higher probability than in the normal game state. More specifically, when it is determined that the advantageous game execution means 608 is in the advantageous state, the fact is output to the normal hit game execution means 607. As a result, the normal hit game execution means 607 operates a so-called opening extension function, and always uses a long opening time (for example, “5700 ms”) as the operation time of the normal electric accessory 81.

  55 and the special electric accessory big hit process shown in FIG. 58 are actually the process in the main control board 765 and the process in the sub-integrated board 763. Are executed independently. However, in this embodiment, for convenience of explanation and easy understanding, the processing in the main control board 765 and the processing in the sub-integrated board 763 are described as sequential processes that are continuous as a series of processes.

[Various control processing of payout control board]
Next, various control processes performed by the payout control board 775 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the payout control side power-on process will be described, followed by the payout control side timer interruption process, various prize ball stock addition processes, prize ball stock monitoring process, payout ball removal determination setting process, payout setting process, ball removal setting Processing will be described. FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing an example of processing at the time of power-on of the payout control side. FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing the continuation of the payout control side power-on process of FIG. FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the payout control side power-on process following FIG. FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing an example of the payout control side timer interrupt process. FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing an example of the prize ball stock number addition process for prize balls. FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing for adding the number of winning ball stocks. FIG. 65 is a flowchart showing an example of the stock monitoring process. FIG. 66 is a flowchart showing an example of the payout ball removal determination setting process. FIG. 67 is a flowchart showing an example of the payout setting process. FIG. 68 is a flowchart showing an example of the ball removal setting process. The award ball stock number adding process, the winning ball stock number adding process, the stock monitoring process, and the payout ball removal determination setting process are the main operation setting processes in step S264 in the payout control side power-on process described later. The priority order is set in the order of a prize ball stock number addition process for a prize ball, a prize ball stock number addition process for a rented ball, a stock monitoring process, and a payout ball removal determination setting process.

<1. Discharge control side power-on processing>
When the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 performs payout control side power-on processing as shown in FIGS. When the payout control side power-on process is started, the payout control MPU 775a sets an interrupt mode (step S200). This interrupt mode is for setting the priority order of the interruption of the payout control MPU 775a. In this embodiment, a payout control side timer interrupt process, which will be described later, is set as the highest priority, and when this payout control side timer interrupt process is interrupted, the process is preferentially performed. Subsequent to step S200, input / output setting (I / O input / output setting) is performed (step S202). In this I / O input / output setting, an I / O port input / output setting of the payout control MPU 775a is performed. Following step S202, wait timer processing 1 is performed (step S204). The voltage does not increase immediately from when the power is turned on until the voltage reaches the predetermined voltage. On the other hand, when a power outage or a momentary power failure (a phenomenon in which the supply of power is suddenly stopped) occurs, the voltage decreases, and when the voltage falls below the power outage warning voltage, a power outage signal is input as a power outage notice. A power failure signal is input when the voltage falls below the power failure warning voltage from when the power is turned on to when the voltage rises to a predetermined voltage. Therefore, in the wait timer process 1, after the power is turned on, the process waits until the voltage becomes higher than the power failure notice voltage. In this embodiment, 200 milliseconds (ms) is set as the waiting time (wait timer). Subsequent to step S204, it is determined whether or not the RAM clear switch 769 is operated (step S206). This determination is made based on whether or not the RAM clear switch 769 is operated and the operation signal (detection signal) is input to the payout control MPU 775a. When the detection signal is input, it is determined that the RAM clear switch 769 is operated. On the other hand, when the detection signal is not input, it is determined that the RAM clear switch 769 is not operated.

  When the RAM clear switch 769 is operated in step S206, the payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG is set to a value 1 (step S208), while when the RAM clear switch 769 is not operated in step S206, the payout A value 0 is set to the RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG (step S210). The payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG is stored in a RAM (hereinafter referred to as “payout built-in RAM”) incorporated in the payout control MPU 775a, for example, award ball stock number, real ball count, drive command, etc. This is a flag indicating whether or not to delete payout information (details will be described later) relating to payout, such as the number and various flags (and various information stored in various information storage areas). A value of 1 is set when deleting, and a value of 0 is set when not paying out information. The payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG set in step S208 and step S210 is stored in a general purpose storage element (general purpose register) of the payout control MPU 775a.

  Following step S208 or step S210, it is determined whether or not the ball removal switch 779 is operated (step S212). This determination is made based on whether or not the ball removal switch 779 is operated and an operation signal (detection signal) is input to the payout control MPU 775a. When the detection signal is input, it is determined that the ball removal switch 779 is operated. On the other hand, when the detection signal is not input, it is determined that the ball removal switch 779 is not operated.

  When the ball removal switch 779 is operated in step S212, a value 1 is set to the ball removal flag RMV-FLG (step S214). On the other hand, when the ball removal switch 779 is not operated in step S212, the ball removal flag 7 A value 0 is set in RMV-FLG (step S216). This ball removal flag RMV-FLG is a flag indicating whether or not the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged. Each value is set to 0. Note that the ball removal flag RMV-FLG set in step S214 and step S216 is stored in a general-purpose storage element (general-purpose register) of the payout control MPU 775a.

  Subsequent to step S214 or step S216, a setting for permitting access to the payout internal RAM is performed (step S220). With this setting, the payout internal RAM can be accessed, and for example, payout information can be written (stored) or read out. Subsequent to step S220, the stack pointer is set (step S222). The stack pointer indicates, for example, the address accumulated on the stack to temporarily store the contents of the memory element (register) being used, or temporarily returns the return address of this routine when returning to this routine after completing the subroutine. It indicates the address that is stacked on the stack for storage, and the stack pointer advances each time the stack is stacked. In step S222, an initial address is set in the stack pointer, and the contents of the register, the return address, etc. are stacked on the stack from this initial address. Then, the stack pointer returns to the initial address by sequentially reading from the last stacked stack to the first stacked stack.

  Subsequent to step S222, it is determined whether or not the payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG has a value of 0 (step S224). As described above, the payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG is set to a value of 1 when the payout information is erased and to a value of 0 when the payout information is not erased. When the payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG is 0 in step S224, that is, when the payout information is not erased, a checksum is calculated (step S226). This checksum calculates the sum by regarding the payout information stored in the payout internal RAM as a numerical value. Subsequent to step S226, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value stored in the payout control side power-off processing (power-off) described later (step S228). . If they match, it is determined whether or not the payout backup flag HBK-FLG is 1 (step S230). This payout backup flag HBK-FLG stores or holds payout backup information such as payout information, a checksum value, and a value of the payout backup flag HBK-FLG in the payout built-in RAM in the payout control side power-off process described later. This flag is set to a value of 1 when the payout control side power-off process is normally terminated, and a value of 0 when the payout control side power-off process is not normally terminated.

  When the payout backup flag HBK-FLG has a value of 1 in step S230, that is, when the payout control side power-off process has been completed normally, the work area of the payout internal RAM is set as power recovery (step S232). In this setting, in addition to setting the payout backup flag HBK-FLG to a value of 0, the power recovery time information is read from a ROM built in the payout control MPU 775a (hereinafter referred to as “payout built-in ROM”). Time information is set in the work area of the payout internal RAM. Here, “when power is restored” includes, in addition to the state where the power is turned on from the state where the power is turned off, as well as the state where the power is restored after a power failure or a momentary power interruption as described above.

  On the other hand, when the payout RAM clear notification flag HRCL-FLG is not 0 (value 1) in step S224, that is, when the payout information is deleted, or when the checksum values do not match in step S228, or step If the payout backup flag HBK-FLG is not a value 1 (value 0) in S230, that is, if the payout control side power-off process has not ended normally, the entire area of the payout built-in RAM is cleared (step S234). Then, the work area of the payout built-in RAM is set as an initial setting (step S236). In this setting, the initial information is read from the payout built-in ROM, and this initial information is set in the work area of the payout internal RAM.

  Subsequent to step S232 or step S236, interrupt initialization is performed (step S238). This setting is to set an interrupt cycle when a payout control side timer interrupt process to be described later is performed. In this embodiment, it is set to 1.75 ms. Subsequent to step S238, interrupt permission is set (step S240). With this setting, the payout control side timer interrupt process is repeated every interrupt cycle set in step S238, that is, every 1.75 ms.

  Following step S240, it is determined whether a power failure signal is input (step S242). As described above, when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is shut off, or when a power failure or a momentary power failure occurs, a power failure signal is input as a power failure warning when the voltage is equal to or lower than the power failure warning voltage. The determination in step S242 is performed based on this power failure signal. When no power failure signal is input in step S242, it is determined whether or not the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is 1 (step S244). This 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is a flag that counts 1.75 ms in a payout control side timer interrupt process processed every 1.75 ms, which will be described later. The value is set to 0 when 75 ms has not elapsed. When the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is 0 in step S244, that is, when 1.75 ms has not elapsed, the process returns to step S242 to determine whether or not a power failure signal is input. On the other hand, if the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is 1 in step S244, that is, if 1.75 ms has elapsed, the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is set to 0 (step S246), and the external watchdog is set. A clear signal is turned ON to the timer (external WDT) 775c (step S248). The external WDT 775c is for monitoring the operation (system) of the payout control MPU 775a. When the external WDT 775c is not cleared within a certain period, the payout control MPU 775a is reset (whether the system of the payout control MPU 775a is not running out of control). Diagnosed).

  Subsequent to step S248, port output processing is performed (step S250). In this port output process, various information is read from the output information storage area of the payout built-in RAM from the output terminal of the payout control I / O port 775b, and various signals are output based on the various information. In the output information storage area, for example, ACK information indicating that various commands relating to payout from the main control board 765 have been normally received, drive information for controlling drive to the ball payout device 170, and the ball payout device actually playing the game Various information such as information on the number of balls that have been paid out, LED display information displayed on the error LED display 777, and reception completion information that indicates that a rent request signal from the prepaid card unit 1a has been received normally. The ACK signal is output to the main control board 765 when the various commands relating to the payout from the main control board 765 are normally received from the output terminal based on the output information, and the driving signal is sent to the ball payout device 170. Or the number of balls actually paid out by the ball dispensing device 170 as a prize ball number signal (in this embodiment, Each time the dispensing device 170 actually pays out 10 game balls, a prize ball number signal is output.), A display signal is output to the error LED display 777, or a loan request from the prepaid card unit 1a. When the signal is normally received, a reception completion signal is output to the prepaid card unit 1a.

  Subsequent to step S250, port input processing is performed (step S252). In this port input process, various signals input to the input terminal of the payout control I / O port 775b are read and stored as input information in the input information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. For example, an operation signal of the error release switch 778, a detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106, a detection signal from the counting switch 105, a detection signal from the full switch 107, a renting request signal and a connection signal from the prepaid card unit 1a, An ACK signal from the main control board 765 that indicates that the main control board 765 has normally received various commands transmitted in a command transmission process described later is read and stored as input information in the input information storage area.

  Subsequent to step S252, timer update processing is performed (step S254). In this timer update process, the detailed description thereof will be described later, but when the ball dispensing device 170 determines whether or not the sphere is caused, the sphere detection time, the sphere detection time set as the determination condition is set. The ball removal determination time set when the game balls stored in the tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged, and is set as a determination condition when determining whether or not the lower plate 31 is full. Whether or not the number of game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number based on a detection signal from a ball break switch (not shown) provided in the ball payout device 170. Time management such as the ball breakage determination time set as the determination condition when performing the above. For example, when the sphere collision determination time is set to 5005 ms, the timer interruption period is set to 1.75 ms. Therefore, every time this timer update process is performed, the sphere collision determination time is subtracted by 1.75 ms. Since the subtraction result is a value of 0, the sphere collision determination time is accurately measured.

  In the present embodiment, the ball removal determination time is set to 60060 ms, the full tank determination time is set to 504 ms, and the ball breakage determination time is set to 119 ms. By subtracting 1.75 ms at a time and the subtraction result becomes 0, the ball removal determination time and the full tank determination time are accurately measured. These various determination times are stored in the time management information storage area of the payout internal RAM as time management information.

  Following step S254, CR communication processing is performed (step S256). In this CR communication process, the input information is read from the above-mentioned input information storage area, and based on this input information, it is determined whether or not the lending request signal from the prepaid card unit 1a is input, or the prepaid card unit It is determined whether or not the connection signal from 1a is input. When a lending request signal is input and the lending request signal is normally received, reception completion information indicating that is stored in the output information storage area described above, and the lending request signal is paid out as lending information. Store in the rented ball information storage area of the built-in RAM. On the other hand, when the ball rental request signal cannot be normally received, the ball rental request error information to that effect is stored in the state information storage area of the payout built-in RAM.

  When a connection signal is input, CR connection information that indicates that the connection with the prepaid card unit 1a is normal is stored in the state information storage area. When no connection signal is input, CR connection information indicating that the connection with the prepaid card unit 1a is abnormal is stored in the state information storage area.

  Subsequent to step S256, a full tank and out of ball check process is performed (step S258). In this full tank and out-of-ball check process, the input information is read from the above-mentioned input information storage area, and based on this input information, the lower plate 31 is filled with game balls based on the detection signal from the full tank switch 107. It is determined whether or not the number of game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number based on a detection signal from a ball break switch provided in the ball payout device 170. Or For example, whether or not the lower tray 31 is full of game balls is determined by using a timer interruption period of 1.75 ms, and a detection signal from the full tank switch 107 in the current full tank and out of ball check processing. Is ON, and when the detection signal from the full tank switch 107 is turned OFF in the previous full (1.75 ms before) full ball and out of ball check process, that is, the detection signal from the full tank switch 107 is changed from OFF to ON. In some cases, the timer update process in step S254 starts counting the full tank determination time (504 ms) described above. When the full tank determination time becomes 0 in the timer update process, that is, when the full tank determination time is reached, whether or not the detection signal from the full tank switch 107 is ON in this full tank and out-of-ball check process. Determine whether. In this determination, when the detection signal from the full tank switch 107 is ON, the full tank information indicating that the lower tray 31 is full of game balls is stored in the state information storage area. On the other hand, when the detection signal from the full tank switch 107 is OFF, it is stored in the state information storage area area that the lower plate 31 is filled with the game ball and the fact that it is not full is informed.

  Whether or not the number of game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number is also determined by using the timer interruption period 1.75 ms, When the detection signal from the switch is ON, the detection signal from the ball break switch is turned OFF in the previous full (1.75ms before) full ball and ball break check processing, that is, the detection signal from the ball break switch is ON from OFF When the transition is made, the timer update process in step S254 starts counting the ball breakage determination time (119 ms) described above. When the ball break determination time becomes 0 in the timer update process, that is, when the ball break determination time is reached, whether or not the detection signal from the ball break switch is ON in the full tank and ball break check processing. Determine. In this determination, when the detection signal from the ball break switch is ON, ball break information indicating that the number of game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number is stored in the state information storage area. On the other hand, when the detection signal from the ball break switch is OFF, ball break information indicating that the number of game balls taken into the ball payout device 170 is not more than a predetermined number is stored in the state information storage area. To do.

  Following step S258, command reception processing is performed (step S260). In this command reception process, various commands relating to payout from the main control board 765 are received. When the various commands are normally received, ACK information indicating that is stored in the output information storage area. On the other hand, when various commands cannot be received normally, connection abnormality information that indicates that an abnormality has occurred in the connection between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775 is stored in the state information storage area described above. . A detailed description of various commands related to payout from the main control board 765 will be described later.

  Following step S260, command analysis processing is performed (step S262). In this command analysis processing, the command received in step S260 is analyzed, and the analyzed command is stored as received command information in the received command information storage area of the payout built-in RAM.

  Subsequent to step S262, main operation setting processing is performed (step S264). In this main operation setting process, operation settings such as winning balls, lending balls, ball removal and ball scoring are performed, and the number of unpaid balls (prize ball stock number) is monitored. A detailed description of these operation settings and monitoring will be described later.

  Following step S264, LED display data creation processing is performed (step S266). In this LED display data creation process, various types of information are read from the state information storage area described above, display data to be displayed on the error LED display 777 of the payout control board 775 is created, and LED display information is stored in the output information storage area described above. Remember. For example, the above-mentioned ball piece information is read from the state information storage area, display data corresponding to this ball piece information is created, and LED display information is stored in the output information storage area.

  Following step S266, command transmission processing is performed (step S268). In this command transmission process, various information is read from the state information storage area described above, a command is created based on the various information, and is transmitted to the main control board 765.

  Following step S268, the clear signal to the external watchdog timer (external WDT) 775c is turned OFF (step S270). As a result, the external WDT 775c is cleared, the payout control MPU 775a is not reset, and the external WDT 775c is started to time.

  Following step S270, the process returns to step S242 again to determine whether or not a power failure signal is input. If this power failure signal is not input, the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG is 1 in step S244. When the 1.75 ms elapse flag HT-FLG is a value 1, that is, when 1.75 ms elapses, the value 1. is set in the 1.75 ms elapse flag HT-FLG in step S246, and the step In step S248, a clear signal is output to the external WDT 775c, port output processing is performed in step S250, port input processing is performed in step S252, timer update processing is performed in step S254, CR communication processing is performed in step S256, and step S258 is performed. Perform full tank and out of ball check processing, receive command in step S260 In step S262, command analysis processing is performed. In step S264, main operation setting processing is performed. In step S266, LED display data creation processing is performed. In step S268, command transmission processing is performed. In step S270, the external WDT 775c is cleared. A signal is output, and Steps S242 to S270 are repeated. The processing from step S242 to step S270 is referred to as “payout control main processing”.

  Depending on the progress of the game by the main control board 765, the processing content of the payout control side main process varies. For this reason, the time required for the process of the payout control MPU 775a varies. Accordingly, the payout control MPU 775a preferentially outputs to the main control board 765 an ACK signal notifying that various commands relating to payout from the main control board 765 have been normally received in the port output processing of step S250. As a result, the payout control MPU 775a secures the processing time so that other fluctuating processes can be sufficiently performed.

  On the other hand, when a power failure signal is input in step S242, interrupt prohibition setting is performed (step S272). With this setting, payout control side timer interrupt processing, which will be described later, is not performed, writing to the payout internal RAM is prevented, and rewriting of the payout information described above is protected. Subsequent to step S272, the output of the drive signal to the ball payout device 170 is stopped (step S274). Thereby, payout of the game ball is stopped. Following step S274, the clear signal is turned ON / OFF to the external WDT 775c (step S276). This clears the external WDT 775c. Subsequent to step S276, a checksum is calculated and the calculated value is stored (step S278). The checksum is calculated by regarding the payout information in the work area of the payout built-in RAM as a numerical value, excluding the storage area of the checksum value calculated in step S226 and the payout backup flag HBK-FLG. Subsequent to step S278, a value 1 is set to the payout backup flag HBK-FLG. (Step S280) This completes the storage of the payout backup information. Subsequent to step S280, prohibition of access to the payout internal RAM is set (step S282). With this setting, access to the payout internal RAM is prohibited, and writing and reading cannot be performed, and the payout backup information stored in the internal payout RAM is protected. Following step S282, an infinite loop is entered. In this infinite loop, the clear signal is not turned ON / OFF to the external WDT 775c. For this reason, the payout control MPU 775a is reset, and then the payout control MPU 775a performs the payout control side power-on process again. The processing from step S272 to step S282 and the infinite loop are referred to as “payout control side power-off processing”.

  The pachinko machine 1 (payout control MPU 775a) is reset when a power failure occurs or when an instantaneous power failure occurs, and the payout control side power-on process is performed by power recovery thereafter.

  In step S228, it is checked whether or not the payout backup information stored in the payout built-in RAM is normal. In step S230, it is checked whether or not the payout control side power-off process has been normally completed. I am inspecting. In this way, by checking the payout backup information stored in the payout built-in RAM twice, it is inspected whether the payout backup information is stored by fraud.

<2. Payout control side timer interrupt processing>
Next, payout control side timer interrupt processing will be described. This payout control side timer interrupt process is repeatedly performed every interrupt period (1.75 ms in the present embodiment) set in the payout control side power-on process shown in FIGS.

  When the payout control side timer interrupt process is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 sets the timer interrupt to be prohibited and switches (saves) the register as shown in FIG. 62 (step S290). Here, the general-purpose storage element (general-purpose register) used in the above-described payout control-side main process is switched to the auxiliary register. By using this auxiliary register in the payout control side timer interrupt process, the value of the general-purpose register is not overwritten. This prevents the contents of the general-purpose register used in the payout control side main process from being destroyed.

  Subsequent to step S290, a value 1 is set in the 1.75 ms elapsed flag HT-FLG (step S292). The 1.75 progress flag HT-FLG is a flag that counts 1.75 ms every time the payout control side timer interrupt process is performed, that is, every 1.75 ms. Each value is set to 0 when .75 ms has not elapsed. Subsequent to step S292, the register is switched (returned) (step S294). This return is performed by reading the contents saved on the stack in step S290 and writing them to the register. Subsequent to step S294, interrupt permission is set (step S296), and this routine is terminated.

<3. Various prize ball stock addition processing>
Next, various prize ball stock number addition processing will be described. The prize ball stock number addition process includes a prize ball prize ball number addition process and a rental ball prize ball number addition process. The prize ball prize ball number addition process is performed from the main control board 765. This is a process of adding the number of balls to be paid out based on a prize ball command, which will be described later. It is. First, the award ball stock number addition process for prize balls will be described, and then the award ball stock number addition process for rental balls will be described. In this embodiment, the prize ball stock number addition process for prize balls is set to be performed preferentially, and according to the number of prize balls stock added in this prize ball stock number addition process. After the game balls are paid out by the ball payout device 170, a setting is made such that the number of winning ball stocks for lending is added.

  When the prize ball stock number addition processing for the prize ball is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 determines whether or not there is a prize ball command as shown in FIG. 63 (step S300). This determination is made based on the command analyzed in the command analysis process in step S262 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the analyzed command is stored as received command information in the received command information storage area of the payout internal RAM. In step S300, the received command information is read from the received command information storage area to determine whether the command is a prize ball command.

  If the received command information is a prize ball command in step S300, the prize ball number PBV corresponding to the prize ball command is read from the prize ball number information table (step S302). The prize ball number information table, which will be described in detail later, is an information table stored in advance in the payout control ROM in association with the prize ball command and the prize ball number PBV. Subsequent to step S302, the winning ball stock number PBS is read from the payout built-in RAM (step S304). This award ball stock number PBS represents the number of game balls that have not yet been paid out by the ball payout device 170, that is, the number of unpaid balls, and in this embodiment has a storage capacity of 2 bytes (16 bits). ing. As a result, the award ball stock number PBS can store the number of unpaid balls from 0 to 65535. The prize ball number PBV read in step S302 is added to the prize ball stock number PBS read in step S304 (step S306), and this routine ends. After the addition in step S306, the prize ball command read in step S300 is erased from the received command information storage area.

  On the other hand, if the received command information is not a prize ball command in step S300, this routine is ended as it is.

  Next, the processing for adding the number of winning ball stocks will be described. When the processing for adding the number of winning ball stocks is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 determines whether or not there is a loan request signal as shown in FIG. 64 (step S310). This determination is made based on the lending request signal from the prepaid card unit 1a in the port input process of step S252 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the lending request signal is stored as input information in the input information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. In step S310, input information is read from this input information storage area, and it is determined whether or not there is a lending request signal.

  When there is a lending request signal in step S310, the award ball stock number PBS is read from the payout built-in RAM (step S312), the lending number RBV is added to the award ball stock number PBS (step S314), and this routine is terminated. To do. The number of rented balls RBV is a fixed value and is stored in advance in the payout control ROM. In the present embodiment, the value 25 is set as the number of rented balls RBV. In addition, after adding in step S314, the rent request signal read in step S310 is deleted from the input information storage area. In the present embodiment, priority is given to prize balls (the prize balls and the rental balls are managed separately). For this reason, even when there is a ball rental request signal, the ball rental request signal is held, and when the prize ball is paid out, the ball is paid out. Accordingly, the rented ball is paid out after the prize ball stock PBS becomes zero.

  On the other hand, when there is no lending request signal in step S310, this routine is ended as it is.

<4. Stock monitoring process>
Next, the stock monitoring process will be described. This stock monitoring process is a process for monitoring whether or not the game is continued in a state where the player has filled the game ball in the lower plate 31 during the game (stocked state).

  When the stock monitoring process is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 reads the prize ball stock number PBS from the payout built-in RAM as shown in FIG. 65 (step S320). It is determined whether or not the threshold value is equal to or greater than the alert threshold value TH1 (step S322). The alert threshold TH1 is set to a value of 50 in this embodiment. If the prize ball stock PBS is greater than or equal to the attention threshold TH1 in step S322, the value 1 is set to the attention flag CA-FLG (step S324). This caution flag CA-FLG indicates that the player has started to stock game balls in the lower plate 31, and that the number of game balls that have not been paid out (the number of prize ball stocks described above) has reached or exceeded the caution threshold TH1. Is set to a value of 1 when the threshold value exceeds the caution threshold value TH1, and is set to a value of 0 when the threshold value does not exceed the threshold value TH1.

  Subsequent to step S324, it is determined whether or not the prize ball stock number PBS read out in step S320 is greater than or equal to the warning threshold value TH2 (step S326). The warning threshold value TH2 is set to a value 300 in this embodiment. When the prize ball stock PBS is greater than or equal to the warning threshold value TH2 in step S326, the warning flag WA-FLG is set to a value 1 (step S328), and this routine is terminated. This warning flag WA-FLG indicates that the player has started to stock game balls on the lower plate 31, and that the number of game balls that have not been paid out (the number of prize ball stocks described above) has reached or exceeded the warning threshold value TH2. Is set to a value of 1 when the warning threshold value TH2 or more is reached, and a value of 0 when the warning threshold value TH2 or more is not reached.

  On the other hand, if the prize ball stock PBS is less than the caution threshold TH1 in step S322, the caution flag CA-FLG is set to 0 (step S330), and this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the winning ball stock number PBS is less than the warning threshold value TH2 in step S326, the warning flag WA-FLG is set to 0 (step S332), and this routine is terminated.

  If the gaming state becomes a big hit and the player relaxes and sees an effect unfolded on the effect display device 115, or looks into the action of the ornament main body 302, the player inadvertently makes one round. During this time, the game balls paid out as prize balls may not be removed from the lower plate 31 by operating the lower plate ball discharge button (not shown). If the game is continued in this state, as described above, the value of the prize ball stock PBS increases to become a warning threshold value TH1 and a warning threshold value TH2, which will be described in detail later. As a warning effect, a guidance voice flows from the speakers 18 and 57. Then, even if the player can be in a relaxed state where the game state is a big hit, if the game ball is not inadvertently pulled out from the lower plate 31, a warning effect will be performed, which will be annoying. It might be.

  Therefore, in order to prevent such discomfort as much as possible, in this embodiment, as described above, the value 300 is set to the warning threshold value TH2. This warning threshold TH2 is set to the number of game balls to be paid out as award balls for two rounds. For example, when one game ball is won at the lower side big winning opening 83, when 15 balls are paid out, one round (in this embodiment, the lower side big winning opening 83 is changed from the closed state to the opened state). As a result, the lower side big winning opening 83 returns from the open state to the closed state again after 30 seconds from the winning or opening state of 15 game balls. The number of game balls to be paid out is 150 (= 15 × 10) when 10 game balls are awarded in the lower large winning opening 83, and 300 (150 × 2) for two rounds. If the storage capacity of the prize ball stock PBS is 1 byte (8 bits), only 0 to 255 unpaid balls can be stored. Then, by setting the storage capacity of the prize ball stock PBS to 2 bytes (16 bits), it is possible to store 256 or more unpaid balls.

  On the other hand, the alert threshold value TH1 is set to a value of 50, which is a stage before the prize ball stock PBS reaches the alert threshold value TH2, and will be described in detail later. By turning on the award ball lamp 396 as an effect, for example, the hall clerk can be informed that the player is careful about the game of the player, and the hall clerk informs the player that the game ball is to be removed from the lower plate 31 I can tell you. Thereby, the player can prevent the game from continuing further in a state where the game ball is full in the lower plate 31. In addition, even if the player is in a relaxed state where the gaming state is a big hit, even if the player does not inadvertently pull out the game ball from the lower plate 31, the player in the hall will not be able to The fact that the game ball is to be pulled out from the lower plate 31 is notified, and an annoying situation can be prevented.

  In the present embodiment, the alert threshold value TH1 is set to a value 50 corresponding to about one fifth of the upper limit value 255 that can be represented by 1 byte (8 bits). It is set to 1/6 of the value 300 of TH2. As a result, it is possible to inform the hall clerk that the player should be alerted to the game as early as possible.

<5. Dispensing ball removal determination setting process>
Next, the payout ball removal determination setting process will be described. In the payout ball removal determination setting process, the game balls are paid out to the upper plate 51 and the lower plate 31 by the ball paying device 170, or the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged from the pachinko machine 1. This is a process for setting whether to perform such payout or discharge.

  When the payout ball removal determination setting process is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 determines whether or not the ball ball flag PBE-FLG is a value 1 as shown in FIG. S340). The ball ball flag PBE-FLG will be described in detail later, but is set to a value of 1 when the ball payout device 170 performs a ball ball movement operation, and to a value of 0 when the ball ball ball movement operation is not performed. Is set.

  In step S340, when the ball ball flag PEB-FLG is not a value 1 (value 0), that is, when the ball ball movement operation is not performed, the prize ball stock number PBS is read from the payout internal RAM (step S342), It is determined whether or not the read prize ball stock number PBS is greater than 0 (step S344). In this determination, it is determined whether or not there is a number of unpaid balls in the game ball payout by the ball payout device 170.

  When the prize ball stock number PBS is larger than 0 in step S344, that is, when there is an unpaid ball number, it is determined whether or not the lower tray 31 is full of game balls (step S346). This determination is performed based on the full tank information stored in step S258 and the full ball check process in step S258 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the full tank information is stored in the state information storage area of the payout internal RAM. In step S346, the full tank information is read from the state information storage area to determine whether or not the lower tray 31 is full of game balls.

  When the lower tray 31 is not full of game balls in step S346, a payout setting process described later is performed (step S348), and this routine is ended. As a result, the game balls are paid out to the upper plate 51 and the lower plate 31. On the other hand, when the lower plate 31 is full of game balls in step S346, this routine is finished as it is. In the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the ball dispensing device 170 is forcibly stopped when the lower tray 31 is full of game balls. When a prize ball is generated while the ball dispensing device 170 is forcibly stopped, the number of balls that have not been paid out by the ball dispensing device 170 increases, and the prize ball stock number PBS is calculated by the prize ball stock number calculation process shown in FIG. It will be added to increase.

  On the other hand, in step S340, when the ball pitching flag PBE-FLG has a value of 1, that is, when the ball pitching operation is performed, or in step S344, the prize ball stock number PBS is not greater than the value 0 (value 0). That is, when there is no unpaid ball number, it is determined whether or not the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is a value 1 (step S350). As described above, the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is a flag indicating whether or not the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are to be discharged. The value is set to 0 when the ball is not discharged. The determination in step S350 is made based on the determination result in step S214 in the payout control side power-on process shown in FIG. That is, when an operation signal is input from the ball removal switch 779 of the payout control board 775, the value 1 is set to the ball removal flag RMV-FLG in step S214 in the payout control side power-on process, while the operation signal is If not input, a value 0 is set to the ball removal flag RMV-FLG in step S216 in the payout control side power-on process.

  When the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is 1 in step S350, that is, when the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged, a ball removal setting process described later is performed (step S352). End the routine. Thereby, the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are discharged.

  Here, when the power is turned off and then the power is turned on while the ball removal switch 779 is pressed, the ball removal setting process is performed in step S352 of the payout ball removal determination setting process, and the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are stored. The game balls that have been made can be discharged. When this discharge is completed, a value 0 is set in the ball removal flag RMV-FLG.

  On the other hand, when the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is 0 in step S350, that is, when the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are not discharged, this routine is finished as it is. As a result, game balls are not paid out or discharged.

  Next, the payout setting process will be described. This payout setting process is a process for driving the ball payout device 170 to make a setting for paying out game balls.

  When the payout setting process is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 reads the drive command number DRV from the payout built-in RAM as shown in FIG. 67 (step S360). This drive command number DRV commands the number of game balls to be paid out by the ball payout device 170, and is equivalent to the prize ball stock number PBS. Subsequent to step S360, it is determined whether or not the drive command number DRV is 0 (step S362). In this determination, it is determined based on the drive command number DRV whether or not the number of game balls to be paid out by the ball payout device 170 remains. When the drive command number DRV is 0 in step S362, that is, when the number of game balls paid out by the ball payout device 170 is zero, output stop (stop) of the drive signal to the ball payout device 170 is set. (Step S364). In this setting, drive information for stopping the drive signal is set in the ball payout device 170 and stored in the output setting storage area of the above-described payout internal RAM. Subsequent to step S364, the winning ball stock number PBS is read from the payout built-in RAM (step S366), and the real ball count PB is read (step S368). The actual ball count PB is obtained by counting the number of game balls actually paid out by the ball payout device 170. This count will be described in detail later, but in the port input process in step S252 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Based on the detection signal.

  Subsequent to step S368, the value obtained by subtracting the actual ball count PB read in step S368 from the prize ball stock number PBS read in step S366 is set in the prize ball stock number PBS and the drive command number DRV (step S370). The actual ball count PB is set to 0 (step S372), and this routine is terminated. When the drive command number DRV and the real ball count PB are 0, in step S372, the value of the prize ball stock number PBS read in step S366 is set to the drive command number DRV as it is.

  On the other hand, when the drive command number DRV is not 0 in step S362, that is, when there is a number of game balls to be paid out by the ball payout device 170, an output of a drive signal to the ball payout device 170 is set. (Step S374). In this setting, drive information for outputting a drive signal is set in the ball payout device 170 and stored in the output setting storage area. Following step S374, it is determined whether there is a detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106 (step S376). This determination is performed based on the detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106 in the port input process in step S252 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the detection signal is stored as input information in the input information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. In step S376, the input information is read from the input information storage area, and it is determined whether or not there is a detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106.

  When there is a detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106 in step S376, the drive command number DRV is decremented by 1 (decremented, step S378), and it is determined whether there is a detection signal from the counting switch 105 (step S380). ). This determination is performed based on the detection signal from the count switch 105 in the port input process of step S252 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the detection signal is stored as input information in the input information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. In step S380, input information is read from this input information storage area, and it is determined whether or not there is a detection signal from the counting switch 105.

  When there is a detection signal from the counting switch 105 in step S380, the actual ball count PB is incremented by 1 (incremented, step S382), and this routine is terminated. In step S382, the real ball count PB is incremented by incrementing the real ball count PB. On the other hand, when there is no detection signal from the counting switch 105 in step S380, this routine is finished as it is.

  On the other hand, when there is no detection signal from the rotation angle switch 106 in step 276, it is determined whether or not the ball collision determination time has elapsed (step S384). This determination is made based on the ball collision determination time updated in the timer update process of step S254 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the ball collision determination time is stored as time management information in the time management information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. In step S384, the time management information is read from the time management information storage area, and it is determined whether or not the ball collision determination time has elapsed. It should be noted that the ball dispensing device 170 performs a ball collision operation during the ball collision determination time. This ball collapsing operation is performed in order to eliminate a state where a game ball taken into the ball passage (not shown) of the ball dispensing device 170 is clogged.

  If it is determined in step S384 that the ball collision determination time has not elapsed, an output of a drive signal to the ball dispensing device 170 is set so as to perform the ball collision operation (step S386). In this setting, drive information for outputting a drive signal to the ball payout device 170 is set and stored in the output setting storage area of the payout built-in RAM described above. Subsequent to step S386, a value of 1 is set in the sphere ball flag PBE-FLG (step S388), and this routine is terminated. This in-between-sphere flag PBE-FLG is set to a value of 1 when a ball-bending operation by the ball dispensing device 170 is performed, and to a value of 0 when a ball-bending operation is not performed. On the other hand, when the ball collision determination time has elapsed in step S384, stop of the drive signal to the ball dispensing device 170 is set so as to end the ball collision operation (step S390). In this setting, drive information for stopping the drive signal is set in the ball payout device 170 and stored in the output setting storage area. Subsequent to step S390, a value of 0 is set in the sphere ball flag PBE-FLG (step S392), and this routine is terminated.

  Next, the ball removal setting process will be described. In this ball removal setting process, the ball dispensing device 170 is driven to discharge the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150.

  When the ball removal setting process is started, the payout control MPU 775a of the payout control board 775 determines whether or not the ball removal determination time has elapsed as shown in FIG. 68 (step S400). This determination is made based on the ball removal determination time updated in the timer update process in step S254 in the payout control side power-on process (payout control side main process) shown in FIG. Specifically, the ball removal determination time is stored as time management information in the time management information storage area of the payout built-in RAM. In step S400, the time management information is read from this time management information storage area to determine whether or not the ball removal determination time has elapsed. During the ball removal determination time, the ball dispensing device 170 performs a ball removal operation. This ball removing operation is performed to discharge the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150.

  When the ball removal determination time has not elapsed in step S400, the output of the drive signal to the ball dispensing device 170 is set to perform the ball removal operation (step S402). In this setting, drive information for outputting a drive signal to the ball payout device 170 is set and stored in the output setting storage area of the payout built-in RAM described above. Subsequent to step S402, the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is set to 1 (step S404), and this routine is terminated. As described above, the ball removal flag RMV-FLG is a flag indicating whether or not the game balls stored in the ball tank 136 and the tank rail 150 are to be discharged. The value is set to 0 when the ball is not discharged. On the other hand, when the ball removal determination time has elapsed in step S400, a stop of the drive signal to the ball dispensing device 170 is set to end the ball removal operation (step S406), and this routine is finished. In this setting, drive information for stopping the drive signal is set in the ball payout device 170 and stored in the output setting storage area.

[Various commands related to payout]
Next, various commands related to payout will be described. First, a payout command (prize ball command) transmitted from the main control board 765 to the payout control board 775 will be described, followed by a status command of the pachinko machine 1 transmitted from the payout control board 775 to the main control board 765, and this status command. A shaping state command obtained by shaping is described. 69 is a prize ball number information table showing an example of a payout command, FIG. 70 is a table showing an example of a status command, and FIG. 71 is a table showing an example of a shaping status command obtained by shaping the status command.

<1. Prize ball command>
The prize ball command is a command having a storage capacity of 1 byte (8 bits), and is a command related to payout transmitted from the main control board 65 to the payout control board 775. For example, a prepaid card unit 1a is connected to the pachinko machine 1 (a device that communicates with the pachinko machine and supplies the pachinko machine to the pachinko machine as a rental ball by driving a payout motor of the pachinko machine ("CR machine"). 69) are arranged adjacent to each other, as shown in FIG. 69 (a), the prize ball commands transmitted from the main control board 765 to the payout control board 775 include commands 10H to 1EH ( “H” represents a hexadecimal number.), One award ball is designated by the command 10H, two award balls are designated by the command 11H, and a prize ball 15 is designated by the command 1EH. The payout control board 775 controls the payout device 170 to drive out the game balls by the designated number of prize balls.

  Further, in the case where a ball rental machine (a device for directly paying out game balls as a rental ball on the upper plate (referred to as “general machine (cash machine)”)) is disposed adjacent to the pachinko machine 1, FIG. As shown in FIG. 5B, command 20H to command 2EH are prepared for the prize ball command transmitted from the main control board 765 to the general machine. One prize ball is designated by the command 20H, and the prize is given by the command 21H. Two balls are designated, and the prize ball 15 is designated in the command 2EH. The general machine performs control for paying out game balls for the designated number of prize balls.

  As shown in FIG. 69 (c), a command 30H is prepared as a command common to the CR machine and the general machine (self-check command), and the self-check is designated in the command 30H. This self-check command is not for paying out a prize ball, but for checking the connection state between the main control board 765 and the payout control board 775, and is common to CR machines and general machines. Used.

  Here, a CR machine and a general machine (cash machine) will be described. In the CR machine, a prepaid card corresponding to the number of balls to be lent is purchased in advance at a ticket vending machine, and the prepaid card unit 1a disposed adjacent to the pachinko machine 1 is inserted into the pachinko machine 1 (ball A game ball is paid out as a rental ball from the payout device 170). Specifically, when the prepaid card is inserted into the prepaid card unit 1a, the balance information is read from the prepaid card by a card reader built in the prepaid card unit (not shown). The prepaid card unit 1a outputs a ball rental request signal to the pachinko machine 1 based on the balance information, and the pachinko machine 1 pays out a game ball as a ball from the ball payout device 170. On the other hand, in a general machine (cash machine), a dedicated machine for rental balls is arranged adjacent to the pachinko machine 1 '. By putting cash in the dedicated machine for renting a ball, the dedicated machine for renting a ball pays out a game ball as a rented ball based on the cash.

  The CR machine has a probability variation function that is not permitted for general machines, and is more popular among players in terms of euphoria than general machines. For this reason, sales of CR machines are managed by a third-party organization as a countermeasure against tax evasion of the hall. Specifically, the prepaid card unit 1a can perform infrared communication with the sales information collection terminal, and the sales information collection terminal is connected to the information collection center of the prepaid card company by wire. As a result, the prepaid card company can manage the sales information of the hall.

  By the way, when a game machine 5 for CR machine having a probability variation function is mounted on a pachinko machine 1 ′ equipped with a payout control board 775 ′ for a general machine instead of the game board 5 ′ for a general machine, In spite of the pachinko machine 1 ′ for general machines, it is possible to allow a player to play a game using a CR machine having a probability variation function. For this reason, the player likes to play the popular CR machine and plays the game. Then, as described above, the pachinko machine 1 ′ on which the payout control board 775 ′ is mounted for a general machine is arranged adjacent to the pachinko machine 1 ′ and connected to the information collection center of the prepaid card company. As a result, sales information is not transmitted to third parties. As a result, the hall illegally acquires sales by providing such illegal games to players.

  In this embodiment, the prize ball command has a storage capacity of 1 byte, that is, 8 bits, and the upper 4 bits of the 8 bits are used as a prize ball command for a CR machine or a prize ball for a general machine. Used as information that can be identified in the command. On the other hand, the lower 4 bits of the 8 bits are used as information for designating the number of game balls to be paid out to the player. As described above, the prize ball command for the CR machine is preset to 10H to command 1EH, and the prize ball command for the general machine is preset to 20H to command 2EH. In this way, the value 1 is designated for the CR machine in the upper 4 bits and the value 2 is designated for the general machine in the upper 4 bits, so that a transmission register (not shown) is initialized when the power is turned on, and the value 0 is set. Even if it is (default value), the lower 4 bits have a value of 0 and one prize ball is indicated, but since the upper 4 bits have a value of 0, a prize ball command for a CR machine, a prize for a general machine Does not correspond to any of the ball commands. Thus, even when a default value is transmitted to the payout control board 775 when the power is turned on, the payout control board 775 is discarded as an invalid command. The self-check command also has a storage capacity of 1 byte, that is, 8 bits, and the upper 4 bits among the 8 bits are used as a self-check command that is a common command for the CR machine and the general machine. As described above, the self-check command is 30H. In this way, any one of the adjacent 2-bit information for the CR machine can designate a prize ball command for a CR machine, a prize ball command for a general machine, or a self-check command. In 775, upon receiving the award ball command and the self-check command for the CR machine, the award ball command and the self-check command for the CR machine are discriminated and accepted based on the same 2-bit information adjacent to each other. When the payout control board 775 ′ receives the prize ball command and the self-check command for the general machine, the prize ball command and the self-check command for the general machine are discriminated and accepted based on the adjacent 2-bit information. Thereby, for example, even if the game machine 5 for the CR machine equipped with the main control board 765 having the probability variation function is mounted on the pachinko machine 1 ′ for the general machine, the general machine mounted on the pachinko machine 1 ′. If the payout control board 775 ′ for the CR machine normally receives the award command for the CR machine, it outputs an ACK signal to that effect to the main control board 765, but discards the received award ball command for the CR machine. It is like that. Therefore, even if the game board 5 'for the general machine is replaced with the game board 5 for the CR machine and the player plays a game, the player does not pay out the game ball as a prize ball.

<2. Status command>
The status command is a command having a storage capacity of 1 byte (8 bits) and transmitted from the payout control board 775 to the main control board 765. As shown in FIG. 70, the status command is divided into a frame status, an error cancellation navigation, and a stock display. Priorities are set in the order of the frame status, error cancellation, and stock display. In the frame state, ball breakage, ball removal, connection abnormality, and CR disconnection are prepared. When the ball breaks, bit 0 (B0, “B” represents a bit) is set to 1 and the ball removal is performed. Among them, the value 1 is set to the bit 2 (B2), the value 1 is set to the bit 3 (B3) when the connection is abnormal, and the value 1 is set to the bit 4 (B4) when the CR is not connected. Of the status commands, bit 5 (B5) to bit 7 (B7) for indicating that the frame is in the state are set to a value of 1 for B5, a value of 0 for B6, and a value of 0 for B7.

  The error canceling navigation requires a ball, a count switch error, and a retry upper limit error. The value 1 is set to bit 2 (B2) in the case of a ball, and the value is set to bit 3 (B3) in the case of a count switch error. 1 is set, and the value 1 is set to bit 4 (B4) in the retry upper limit error. Here, the “counting switch error” indicates whether or not a malfunction of the counting switch 105 of the ball dispensing device 170 has occurred. The “retry upper limit error” indicates that a payout that is not consistent is repeatedly performed. Of the status commands, bit 5 (B5) to bit 7 (B7) for indicating that the error cancellation navigation is performed are set to a value 0 for B5, a value 1 for B6, and a value 0 for B7.

  The stock display requires 50 or more stocks and 300 or more stocks. In 50 or more stocks, bit 1 (B0) is set to value 1, and in stocks of 300 or more stocks. The value 1 is set in bit 1 (B1). Of the status commands, bit 5 (B5) to bit 7 (B7) for indicating the stock display are set to a value of 1 for B5, a value of 1 for B6, and a value of 0 for B7.

<3. Formatting command>
The main control MPU 765a of the main control board 765 transmits various commands to the sub integrated board 763. These various commands are commands having a storage amount area of 2 bytes (16 bits), have a storage capacity of 1 byte (8 bits), a status indicating the type of the command, and 1 byte (8 bits). It has a storage capacity and is composed of a mode that shows variations of performance. When the main control MPU 765a receives the above-described state command from the payout control board 775, as shown in FIG. 71, the main control MPU 765a sets the additional information “10000001B (= 81H)” to the status and sets the received state command to the mode. It is set and shaped into a shaping state command having a storage capacity of 2 bytes (16 bits). This shaping state command is performed as one process of the sub integrated board command transmission process of step S92 in the main control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 40, and is transmitted to the sub integrated board 763. Note that the detailed description of the shaping state command is the same as the contents of the state command described above, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[Details of effect display in effect display device]
This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 72 shows the contents of the control process on the sub-integrated board and the control process on the liquid crystal control board.

  As shown in FIG. 72, when the sub-integrated board 763 receives a normal symbol or special symbol fluctuation start command from the main control board 765 (YES in step S501), an effect display is performed based on these received fluctuation start commands. The variation pattern of the normal symbol or the special symbol in the device 115 is set (step S502). Specifically, the variable display pattern corresponding to the variable display pattern command is set, and the final stop symbol in the decorative symbol sequence is determined based on the success / failure command. The sub-integrated board 763 has a random number generating means (not shown), acquires a random number, and adds an effect mode of hitting notice according to the acquired random number. Further, the sub integrated substrate 763 sets these determined variation modes as a variation start command for the liquid crystal control substrate 758 (step S503). Specifically, a variable display pattern command, a final stop symbol command, an effect pattern command, and the like are set. Then, these set fluctuation start commands are transmitted to the liquid crystal control board 758 (step S504). As a result, the liquid crystal control board 758 can perform an effect display according to the lottery result, or can generate a sound or the like in accordance with the effect display.

  On the other hand, when liquid crystal control board 758 receives a change start command from sub integrated board 763 (YES in step S601), based on the change start command, a change mode in effect display device 115 is set (step S602), and thereafter The effect display device 115 is controlled (step S603). Specifically, the variable display pattern corresponding to the variable display pattern command is set, and the final stop symbol of the decorative symbol sequence is set based on the final stop symbol command. Further, an effect corresponding to the effect pattern command is determined, and a more specific effect mode is added. In other words, the liquid crystal control board 758 has a random number generation means (random counter), and can add a more specific effect form to each variable display pattern in the effect display device 115. . As described above, in this example, the selection process of the variable display pattern is shared by the main control board 765, the sub-integrated board 763, and the liquid crystal control board 758. Thus, in the main control board 765 and the sub-integrated board 763, In addition to reducing the processing load, the variation display pattern is complicated, and the entertainment is enhanced.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 72, only the reception process of the change start command related to the effect control is described, among the command reception processes in the sub-integrated board 763 and the liquid crystal control board 758. That is, here, processing for a command at power-on or a command at the time of abnormality is omitted.

  By the way, in the effect image displayed on the effect display device 115 of the present example, a decorative symbol that is variably displayed with periodicity, and a plurality of images are developed and displayed in stages according to a predetermined order during the variation of the decorative symbol. Step effects that can be performed are included. Hereinafter, the decorative design and the step effect will be described in detail.

[About decorative designs in effect display devices]
Next, the display mode in the effect display device 115 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 73 is a diagram for explaining a display area displayed on the effect display device.

  As shown in FIG. 73, the effect display device 115 has a rectangular image display area 1150 having a long side in the horizontal direction, and a part of this display area is covered by the rotary sorter 294. Yes. Specifically, the upper right corner of the rectangular image display region 1150, the right half of the upper side that forms this corner, and the upper half of the right side that also forms the upper right corner, The area including the is covered by the rotary sorter 294.

  Further, the rotary distribution device 294 is arranged on the rear side of the game board 5 (game board 5a) and straddling the inside of the game area 37 and the outside of the game area 37. Specifically, the disc-shaped rotary sorter 294 has an opening 124 formed in the game area 37 and the game area 37 in which the disk surface and the surface of the game board 5a are parallel to each other. It is fixedly attached to the game board 5a across the outside of 37. Therefore, when viewed from the front, the rotary sorting device 294 includes a part covered behind the game board 5 (game board 5a) and a part visible inside the game area 37 (viewable area 294a). And have. And in this visual recognition area | region 294a, it is comprised so that a player can visually recognize the accessory operation | movement of the rotary sorter 294. The effect display device 115 is disposed behind the game board 5a with a predetermined space between the display board 115 and the display surface of the image display area 1150 and the surface of the game board 5a. It has become. Thereby, the rotary sorter 294 and the display surface of the image display area 1150 become parallel.

  Here, the rotary sorter 294 rotates clockwise and covers the image display area 1150 at the upper right of the image display area 1150 when viewed from the player. Accordingly, in the squeezing region 115b, each region (specific region 343, normal region 344) moves from the bottom to the top in the cover region 115b.

  Further, the visible area 294a of the rotary sorting device 294 is almost half of the entire rotary sorting device 294. On the other hand, three specific regions 343 are provided at equal intervals (that is, provided at intervals of 120 degrees). Therefore, one or more specific areas 343 always appear in the visible area 294a. As a result, even if a game ball wins the grand prize opening unit 146 at any timing, it is possible to continue to have a sense of expectation that the game ball will always be accepted into the specific area 343, thereby suppressing a decrease in interest. it can.

  Further, the game balls that flow down the guide passage 340 and are held by the carry-in piece 341 are lifted to the inlet 347 of the rotary sorter 294 by the game ball carry-in device 380 as described above. And the inflow port 347 are both located in the visible region 294a. Moreover, the guide passage 340 is made of a transparent resin member so that a game ball rolling on the guide passage 340 can be visually recognized. Therefore, it is possible to observe the process until the game ball won in the special winning opening unit 146 is received in any of the areas (specific area 343 and normal area 344) provided in the rotary sorter 294. Moreover, since a big hit game is generated when the game ball is received in the specific area 343, the important carry-in piece 341, inflow port 347 and area (specific area 343, normal area 344) related to the occurrence of the big hit game are Is also located in the visible region 294a. That is, even if the rotary sorter 294 is arranged across the inside of the game area 37 and the outside of the game area 37, the important carry-in piece 341, the inflow port 347 and the area (specific Since the region 343 and the normal region 344) may be positioned at least in the visually recognizable region 294a, the size of the rotary sorter 294 can be increased and the game region 37 can be used effectively. In addition, since the rotational speed can be reduced by increasing the size of the rotary sorter 294, important carry-in pieces 341, inflow ports 347 and areas (specific area 343, normal area 344) related to the occurrence of the big hit game. Is positioned in the visually recognizable region 294a, it is possible to observe a mode in which the game ball is received in any region (specific region 343, normal region 344), and it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest.

  By the way, the rotary distribution device 294 is arranged behind the game board 5a and in the vicinity of the effect display device 115, more specifically, in a space provided between the game board 5a and the effect display device 115. Has been. Note that “behind the game board 5a and in the vicinity of the effect display device 115” means that it is closer to the effect display device 115 than the game board 5a in the depth direction. The arrangement position of the rotary sorter 294 will be specifically described. The disc surface of the rotary sorter 294 and the image display area 1150 of the effect display unit 115 face each other so as to substantially overlap each other. A dispensing device 294 is arranged. Thereby, the image display area 1150 of the effect display device 115 and the rotary sorter 294 become integrated. That is, the image display area 1150 of the effect display device 115 and the rotary sorter 294 are close to each other on the same plane without increasing the distance in the depth direction. Thereby, both the display in the image display area 1150 and the operation of the rotary sorter 294 are watched without feeling a sense of perspective between the image display area 1150 of the effect display device 115 and the rotary sorter 294. It becomes possible to observe. In particular, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a big hit game is generated when a game ball is received in a specific area 343 provided in the rotary sorter 294. That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game is generated depending on the winning timing of the game ball to the big winning opening unit 146. As described above, the winning timing of the game ball to the big prize opening unit 146 has a significant effect on whether or not the big hit game is generated. There is a close relationship between the action and the occurrence of the big hit game (that is, the position of the specific area 343 is important when winning the big prize opening unit 146). In addition, the timing of opening the special prize opening unit 146 is after a certain period of time has elapsed since the change display of the special symbol is stopped in the image display area 1150. By gazing at the same time as the operation of the device 294, it is possible to predict whether or not a big hit game will occur, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in interest.

  In the lottery information display area 1151, an effect on the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602, an effect on the special symbol success / failure determination means 612, or an accessory when a game ball enters the first game area in the center accessory 91. An effect related to the lottery is displayed. Note that the “effects related to the role drawing” refers to the lottery between the time when the game ball enters the first game area in the center role 91 and the time when the game ball is distributed by the rotary sorter 294. This is an effect displayed in the information display area 1151.

  In the lottery information display area 1151, only the two left and right decorative symbol columns that are displayed side by side in the horizontal direction are set as the decorative symbols corresponding to the normal symbols, and are variably displayed for each decorative symbol column. It has become so. In the present embodiment, since the horizontal direction is an effective line, the lottery result by the normal symbol success / failure determination unit 602 is displayed by a combination of two left and right decorative symbol rows. The series of decorative symbols is composed of a main decorative symbol with numbers “0” to “9” and sub-decorative symbols made up of pictures, and the main decorative symbols are in ascending or descending numerical order. A sub-decoration symbol is arranged between the main ornament symbols and a series of ornament symbol rows are formed. Then, the normal symbol image display control means 631 (see FIG. 37) performs variable display control of the main decorative symbol and the sub decorative symbol from the upper left to the lower right with periodicity.

  Thereafter, the display of the decorative symbols is changed in the order of left decorative symbol sequence → right decorative symbol sequence, and when the two decorative symbols are aligned with a combination of normal decorative symbols at the time of the stop, the normal symbol is displayed as “special symbol start port 82. “Operate to win a prize”, specifically, “put left” is displayed. In this embodiment, the combination of “3, 3” and the combination of “7, 7” are normal hits. When the stop symbol sequence (left decorative symbol sequence) that stops first among the two decorative symbol sequences stops at “3” or “7”, the reach state is determined by using these decorative symbols as reach formation symbols. To establish. However, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, even if the decorative symbols are aligned with, for example, “7, 7”, it is only possible to win a special start opening 96, and a big hit game can be played immediately. It does not occur. Therefore, by arranging two decorative symbol rows, for example, when the decorative symbols are arranged in the form of “7, 7”, even if the jackpot game is not generated immediately, the jackpot game is immediately generated. It is possible to suppress a decrease in interest due to the fact that it does not occur.

  By the way, the game information display area 1152 includes a hold corresponding display area 1153 corresponding to the display of the normal hold ball lamp 323, a normal symbol corresponding display area 1154 corresponding to the display of the normal symbol display 333, and the special symbol display 332. A special symbol corresponding display area 1155 corresponding to the display. That is, the hold-corresponding display area 1153 indicates the hold state of the normal symbol variation display control. Also, the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154, the normal symbol variation display, and the lottery result by the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 are displayed. Further, the special symbol corresponding display area 1155 displays the special symbol variation display and the lottery result by the special symbol appropriateness determination means 612.

  In the hold-corresponding display area 1153, a display mode corresponding to the number of normal symbols held is displayed. That is, in the hold corresponding display area 1153, for example, if the number of normal symbols held is 1, the display area for one scale is displayed in a bright color, and if it is 2, the display area for two scales is displayed in a bright color. Is done.

  In the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154, an elliptical display area is displayed in a blinking manner, and the lottery result by the normal symbol success / failure determining means 602 can be grasped according to the display mode. It should be noted that when the lottery result is derived by the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602, the normal symbol display unit 333 blinks and displays the elliptical display area while the normal symbol is changing.

  In the special symbol corresponding display area 1155, an elliptical display area is displayed in a blinking manner, and the lottery result by the special symbol determination unit 612 can be grasped according to the display mode. It should be noted that when the lottery result is derived by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612, the special symbol display 332 blinks and displays the elliptical display area while the special symbol is changing.

  Here, in the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154, while the normal symbol is changing on the normal symbol display 333, the elliptical display area is blinked and displayed in response to the change of the normal symbol. When the result of the normal symbol lottery is displayed on the symbol display 333, the display area is stopped and displayed in a manner in which it is turned on or extinguished. Therefore, even if the effect related to the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 is not displayed by displaying the effect related to the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 in the lottery information display area 1151, the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154 is displayed. The display area is displayed blinking.

  Also, in the special symbol corresponding display area 1155, while the special symbol is changed in the special symbol display 332, the elliptical display area is flashed and displayed in response to the change of the special symbol, and the special symbol display is performed. When the result of the special symbol lottery is displayed on the device 332, the display area is stopped and displayed in a manner in which it is turned on or extinguished.

  In this example, the variation of the decorative symbol sequence in the effect display device 115 is controlled by the normal symbol image display control unit 631 and the special symbol image display control unit 632 (see FIG. 37), and the variation start time is set to the normal symbol image display control unit 632. After the start of change, the stop of change in the decorative symbol sequence is set as before the stop of change of the normal symbol. As a result, when the normal symbol variation display is started and stopped, the effect display device 115 does not perform the effect display, thereby preventing the ordinary symbol variation display from being confused with the effect display device 115. In addition, it is possible to prevent the player from recognizing whether or not the normal hit is made during the production of the production display device 115, that is, to impair the effect of the production.

  By the way, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol starting port 96, the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 333 is started to change, and the two decorative symbols are started to be changed. Thereby, it can grasp | ascertain that the fluctuation | variation of the normal symbol started. Further, while the normal symbol is changing in the normal symbol display 333, and in the meantime, while the two decorative symbols are changing, the oval display area is blinked in the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154. Note that the variation of the normal symbol is performed on the premise of deriving the result of the determination process (normal symbol lottery) by the normal symbol determination unit 602.

  Then, if the game ball passes through the normal symbol start port 96 while the normal symbol changes, the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol start port 96 is within a predetermined range (4 in this embodiment). )), The variable symbol display control is suspended. It can be grasped from the display in the hold corresponding display area 1153 that the variable symbol variable display control is put on hold.

  The result of the determination process by the normal symbol appropriateness determination unit 602 is derived by a combination in a case where all symbols of the two decorative symbols for which the variable display is performed are stopped and displayed. These two decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in the order of left symbol → right symbol, but when the left symbol is stopped and displayed with a specific symbol (in this case, “7”), the effect of deriving the occurrence of the reach state Followed by reach fluctuations.

  Note that “reach fluctuation” means that a decorative symbol (left symbol in the present embodiment) other than the decorative symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (in this embodiment, the right symbol) continues for a predetermined time, In the embodiment, the state is “3” or “7”), the state is stopped, swinging, enlarged, reduced, or deformed, or a plurality of decorative symbols fluctuate in synchronization with the same symbol, This means that the position is changed and the possibility of a big hit is continuing before the final result is displayed.

  When the result of the determination process by the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 is a win, all of the two decorative symbols are stopped and displayed with the same specific symbol, and then the normal electric accessory 81 is activated to play the game ball at the special symbol start port 82. Makes it easier to win. Then, in the lottery information display area 1151, instead of displaying two decorative symbols, a display prompting the user to aim at the game ball toward the special symbol starting port 82 is performed (see FIG. 74). In the present embodiment, an arrow pointing to the left is displayed at the special symbol starting port 82 arranged on the left side of the effect display device 115 in order to urge the player to aim the game ball.

  In the lottery information display area 1151, even if the effect related to the special symbol success / failure determination unit 612 is performed instead of the effect related to the normal symbol determination / rejection determination unit 602, the variable symbol variable display control is suspended. For example, the lottery is performed by the normal symbol appropriateness determination means 602, and the suspension of the normal symbol variation display control is released, and the display mode of the variation display by the two decorative symbols is internally determined. When the lottery by the normal symbol determination unit 602 is a win (that is, when it is internally determined that all two decorative symbols are stopped and displayed with the same specific symbol), the special symbol determination unit 612 has an effect. Even if it is performed, the ordinary electric accessory 81 operates and it becomes easy to win a game ball in the special symbol starting port 82. In other words, regardless of whether or not the effect related to the normal symbol success / failure determining means 602 is displayed on the effect display device 115, if it is internally determined that all the two decorative symbols are stopped and displayed with the same symbol, the normal electric combination The thing 81 operates and it becomes easy to win a game ball in the special symbol start port 82. Thereby, the efficiency of the determination process by the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602 can be enhanced regardless of the presence / absence of the effect display on the special symbol success / failure determination means 612.

  Next, when a game ball wins in the special symbol start opening 82, a predetermined effect is performed in the lottery information display area 1151 while the special symbol fluctuates in the special symbol display 332.

  Then, if the result of the determination process by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a small hit, an image indicating that the result of the determination process is a small hit is displayed on the effect display device 115, and then the top big prize opening A display prompting the user to aim at the game ball toward 141 is performed (see FIG. 75). In the present embodiment, an arrow pointing up is displayed to urge the player to aim the game ball at the upper prize winning opening 141 formed above the effect display device 115.

  On the other hand, if the result of the determination process by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a big hit, a character “big hit” is displayed, and then a big hit game is generated.

  If the variation of the special symbol is stopped and the variation display control of the normal symbol is suspended when the variation of the special symbol is stopped, the variation of the normal symbol is started again in the normal symbol display 333, A series of processes 74 (a) to (e) are repeated. Also, in the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154, while the normal symbol is changing on the normal symbol display 333, the elliptical display area is blinked. However, at this time, in the normal symbol corresponding display area 1154, the display indicating that the game ball is urged to be aimed at the upper prize winning port 141 formed above the effect display device 115 is performed. Is not displayed.

  By the way, although the result of the determination process by the normal symbol success / failure determination unit 602 is a hit, a display prompting the user to aim the game ball toward the special symbol start port 82 in the lottery information display area 1151 is performed. When the game ball does not win the special symbol starting port 82, two decorative symbols are displayed again. However, at this time, even if the display mode of the variable display by the two decorative symbols is determined internally, the variable display by the specific display mode is performed instead of the variable display by the determined display mode. . In the present embodiment, this specific display mode is a display mode in which two decorative symbols are scrolled at high speed.

  When a game ball enters the upper prize winning opening 141 and the game ball enters the first game area in the center bonus 91, the game ball that has entered the first game area is distributed by the rotary sorter 294. Until it is done, the lottery information display area 1151 performs effects related to the lottery.

  And when a game ball lottery is performed when a game ball enters the first game area in the center game 91, an effect corresponding to the lottery result is displayed. In the present embodiment, when a game ball that has entered the first game area in the center accessory 91 is received in the specific area 344, a character “big hit” is displayed in the lottery information display area 1151, and then the big hit game is played. appear.

  On the other hand, when a game ball that has entered the first game area in the center accessory 91 is received in the normal area 345 instead of the specific area 344, the display returns to the variable display of two decorative symbols in the lottery information display area 1151 (FIG. 73). However, at this time, even if the display mode of the variable display by the two decorative symbols is determined, the specific display mode (two in the present embodiment) is not performed without performing the variable display by the determined display mode. Variation display is performed by a display mode in which the decorative symbols are scrolled at high speed.

[Special symbol display mode and rotational movement of rotary sorter]
As described above, the rotary sorter 294 is arranged so as to cover the display area in the upper right portion of the effect display apparatus 115 having a rectangular display area. Thereby, since the display mode of the special symbol in the effect display device 115 and the rotation operation of the rotary sorter 294 can be simultaneously recognized, the position of the specific region 343 when the fluctuation of the special symbol is stopped can be determined. It can be grasped (for example, refer to FIG. 73). Moreover, as described above, it is constant at 1000 ms from when the change of the special symbol is stopped until the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, and after the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, the carry-in piece 341 is moved from the receiving position. The time until it is displaced to the charging position is also constant at 3600 ms. Therefore, the timing at which the carry-in piece 341 is displaced from the receiving position to the loading position and the specific area 343 pass through the portion facing the inlet 347 depending on which rotational position the specific area 343 is in when the variation of the special symbol is stopped. It is possible to grasp whether or not the timing to match.

  Further, the rotary sorter 294 is covered with the game board 5 so that a part of the rotary sorter 294 cannot be visually recognized. The part where the rotary distribution device 294 is covered by the game board 5 is a part excluding the part covering the display area of the effect display device 115 and the part facing the inlet 347. Further, the inflow port 347 is provided at a position after the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 have passed through the portion covering the display area of the effect display device 115 and reach the portion covered by the game board 5. . In the present embodiment, the effect display device 115 is provided at a position along the upper side of the rectangular display area. Since the rotary distribution device 294 rotates clockwise, the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 flow before passing through the portion covering the display area of the effect display device 115 and reaching the portion covered by the game board 5. The entrance 347 will be reached. That is, the specific area 343 is always covered and hidden by the game board 5 and before reaching the part facing the inflow port 347 (that is, when the game ball is received in the specific area 343 or the normal area 344). Visible to only. Accordingly, it is possible to more easily grasp whether or not the timing at which the carry-in piece 341 is displaced from the receiving position to the loading position and the timing at which the specific region 343 passes through the portion facing the inlet 347 are matched. Become.

  By the way, if the result of the determination process by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612 is a small hit, the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened based on this. When two or more game balls are won in the upper prize winning opening 141, the game balls stay in the carry-in piece 341 and stay. When 3600 ms elapses after the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened, the carry-in piece 341 is displaced from the receiving position to the throw-in position, and the game ball held in the carry-in piece 341 is sent to the inflow port 347. When any of the regions 343 and 344 faces the inflow port 347 when the game ball stays in the inflow port 347, the game ball is received in the regions 343 and 344 facing the inflow port 347. Then, the game ball received in one specific area 343 flows out from the specific outlet 360, is detected by the game ball detection means 384, and a big hit game is performed. When the game ball is received in the normal area 344, the game ball flows out from the normal outlet 361, and at this time, the big hit game is not performed.

  In the present embodiment, the time of 10 patterns is set for the interval time, the rotational speed of the rotary sorter 294 is constant, and the game ball is received in the specific area 343 on the accessory. The probability is 1/10. Furthermore, there is only one specific area 343 that faces the inflow port 347 during the time difference between the longest time and the shortest time of the interval time. Therefore, in the normal gaming state, the theoretical probability that the game balls are accepted in each of the areas 343 and 344 is equally 10 minutes no matter what timing the player makes the special symbol start opening 82 win the game ball. It becomes 1 of. Therefore, the theoretical jackpot occurrence probability is also 1/10.

  On the other hand, in the high probability advantage state or the low probability advantage state, the interval pattern is always selected as one of the sixth pattern, the seventh pattern, the eighth pattern, the ninth pattern, and the tenth pattern. At the same time as the determination, the rotational operation of the rotating body 297 is started at the timing when the variation of the special symbol is completed. In addition, since the operation of the rotating body 297 is always started from the same specific position, when winning a small hit in the high probability advantageous state or the low probability advantageous state, the game ball won in the top large winning opening 141 is always special. It is accepted in the area 343, the normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to the area 343, the normal area 344c two before the special area 343, or the normal area 344d two behind the special area 343 (the top big prize per small hit) The probability that a game ball won in the mouth 141 is received in the special area 343 and a big hit game is generated is 1/2 in the high-probability advantageous state and 1/10 in the low-probability advantageous state. In addition, since the operation mode of the rotating body 297 is the same between the normal gaming state, the high probability advantageous state, and the low probability advantageous state, the lottery drawing by the rotary sorter 294 is performed. It is difficult to grasp whether or not it is advantageous to the player only by visually recognizing the operation mode of the rotating body 297. In particular, there is a possibility that the player may perceive that there is a highly probable advantageous state due to a bias in receiving destinations of game balls won in the upper prize winning opening 141, but the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has a low probable advantage. Since the state is provided, it becomes even more difficult to grasp whether or not the lottery drawing by the rotary sorter 294 is advantageous to the player by simply viewing the operating mode of the rotating body 297. Yes.

  Whether or not a game ball is received in the specific area 343 depends on the position of the specific area 343 when the upper prize winning opening 141 is opened. As a result, in the highly probable advantageous state, it is possible to increase the probability of generating a big hit game compared to the normal gaming state and the low probable advantageous state in a manner that is not grasped by the player simply by visually recognizing the operating mode of the rotating body 297. It becomes possible.

  In the present embodiment, three specific regions 343 are formed in the rotary sorting device 294, but this number is not limited, and as long as the rotational speed of the rotary sorting device 294 is constant, There may be only one specific region 343 facing the inflow port 347 between the difference time between the longest time and the shortest time of the interval.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the small hit flag in the normal gaming state is ON, 10 interval patterns having different interval times are provided, and the carry-in is carried out from the time when the special symbol variation ends. The total time of the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 is the elapsed time until it is put into the rotary sorter 294 by the piece 341 (in other words, the elapsed time until the rotary sorter 294 sorts to any area) The case where the number is the same as the number of 10 is illustrated. However, as long as a predetermined number (here, 10) can be provided as the elapsed time, another method may be adopted.

  For example, when the small hit flag in the normal gaming state is ON, instead of providing a plurality of interval patterns with different interval times, the operation start of the rotating body 297 is started with the interval time constant. A plurality of timing patterns having different timings may be provided. In this case, ten patterns may be stored in advance in the ROM as the standby time, and any one of the ten timing patterns may be selected from the ROM when the special symbol variation ends.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when a small win is won in the normal gaming state, the game ball that has won the upper prize winning opening 141 may be accepted in either the specific area 343 or all the normal areas 344. is there. On the other hand, when winning a small hit in the low probability advantageous state or the high probability advantageous state, the game ball that has won the upper prize winning opening 141 is a specific region 343 and a normal region 344a before and after the specific region 343. , 344b, the normal area 344c two before the specific area 343, and the normal area 344d two behind the specific area 343. When winning a small hit in the positive advantage state, the following mode may be used instead. For example, a game ball that has won a prize at the upper prize opening 141 may be accepted only in one of the specific area 343 and a normal area (such as the normal area 344a) before the specific area 343, The specific area 343 and the normal area behind the specific area 343 (such as the normal area 344b) may be accepted.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the receiving destination of the game ball that has won the upper prize winning port 141 when winning a small hit in the low probability advantage state or the high probability advantage state is the specific area 343 and the specific area 343. It is one of the front and rear ordinary areas 344a and 344b, the ordinary area 344c two before the specific area 343, and the ordinary area 344d two behind the specific area 343. It is preferable that the recipient of the winning game ball is determined so that, for example, the player cannot perform an illegal act. In a gaming machine in which this type of character lottery is performed, for example, the timing at which a game ball that has won a prize at the upper prize winning port 141 is accepted in the normal area 344 (timing that is not accepted in the specific area 343) Regardless, there are cases where cheating such as shaking or hitting the gaming machine is performed so that the game ball is received in the specific area 343. Although recent gaming machines have taken countermeasures against such fraud, for example, even if a fraudulent act such as shaking or hitting a gaming machine is performed, it should normally be accepted in the normal area 344. It is preferable that the game ball that is present is not received in the specific area 343. For example, when it is time for a game ball that has won a prize at the upper university winning opening 141 to be accepted into the normal area 344, for example, a fraudulent act such as shaking or hitting a gaming machine has been performed and the situation has been accepted into another area. However, it is preferable that the other area be the normal area 344.

  In addition, for example, when an illegal act such as shaking or hitting a gaming machine is performed, even if a game ball won in the upper prize winning opening 141 is received in the specific area 343, an error is not generated without generating a big hit gaming state. There is a gaming machine that performs processing to prevent the game from progressing. Instead of this, or in addition to this, when an illegal act such as shaking or hitting a gaming machine is performed, so that the game ball won in the upper prize opening 141 is not physically received in the specific area 343. For example, the specific area 343 may be closed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the player is in the highly probable advantageous state or the low probable advantageous state, the game balls that have won the upper large winning opening 141 are the specific region 343, the normal regions 344a and 344b adjacent to the specific region 344, and the specific region. The normal area 344c two before the 343 and the normal area 344d two behind the specific area 343 may be accepted, but the specific area 343 and the front and back normal areas 344a and 344b adjacent to the specific area 343 may be accepted. You may make it accept only one of them.

  Although the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment has been described above, the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment has the following effects.

  That is, the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment can visually recognize the lottery process such as whether the game ball enters the specific area 343 or the normal area 344, unlike the lottery process internally performed by software control. In addition to reducing the distrust given to the player with respect to the lottery process, the process until the big hit game is executed can be interesting. However, when a lottery (mechanical lottery) is performed, if the winning lottery that is performed in the same way is not won every time, if the big hit game is not executed, the game may become monotonous, and the interest may be reduced. There is.

  In addition, in this gaming machine, the result of normal winning is obtained by the determination of success / failure by the normal symbol success / failure determination means 602, the result of winning / rejecting is determined by the determination of success / failure by the special symbol success / failure determination means 612, and further, An opportunity for a lottery for a prize can be obtained only after a game ball enters from the upper prize winning opening 141 opened based on the winning result. In addition, in the normal gaming state, even if an opportunity for lottery drawing is obtained, the lottery drawing is performed so that the game ball can be accepted into the specific area 343 only with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/10). So, if the game continues to be a lottery after breaking through various barriers, the player may feel that the path to the big hit is far away. There is.

  Therefore, in this gaming machine, without changing the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294, the game ball enters from the top prize winning port 141 with a probability higher than the probability that the game ball is received in the specific area 343 in the normal gaming state. It is possible to execute a highly reliable game in which an object lottery is performed so that the played game balls are received in the specific area 343.

  However, from the viewpoint of not distrusting the player with the lottery process of the lottery, the game ball that has just entered from the upper prize winning port 141 simply has to enter the specific area 343. In addition, only by looking at the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294, it is highly accurate that the player cannot grasp whether or not the game ball entering from the upper prize winning opening 141 is likely to enter the specific area 343. It is necessary to control the game to be executed. In addition, since the player can visually recognize the lottery process such as whether the game ball enters the specific area 343 or the normal area 344, when the high-probability game is executed, it can be seen that the high-probability game is being executed. As a result, the player may be able to grasp the game, and there is a risk that the interest will be reduced during the normal game.

  Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the game balls are moved from the specific area 344 to the normal area by operating the rotary sorter 294 in the same manner during the execution of the normal game and the high-probability game. Despite the fact that the lottery process is performed in such a way that the lottery process, such as whether to enter the region 344, can be visually recognized, the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294 indicates whether the normal game is being executed or not. By making it difficult to grasp whether or not a game is being executed, it is made secret that a highly-probable game is being executed. In this way, regardless of whether the normal game or high-probability game is being executed, it is shown that the determination result by the special symbol winning determination means 612 is a small hit when performing the character lottery. Each time an image is displayed, rotation of the rotary sorter 294 is started so that the displacement of the specific area 343 is started from the same position at the end timing of the variable display every time. Furthermore, since the specific area 343 is displaced with the same periodic movement as that during the execution of the normal game even during the execution of the high-probability game, the operation mode of the rotary sorter 294 determines that the normal game It is difficult to grasp whether the game is being executed or the high probability game is being executed.

  Moreover, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, although it is won in the lottery only with a predetermined probability in the same manner as in a normal game, whether it wins with a probability higher than the predetermined probability in appearance. An appearance expectation game in which such an object lottery is performed can be executed. In such an appearance expectation game, the player is given a sense of expectation as if the degree of advantage is higher than that of the normal game, even though the player can win with substantially the same probability as the normal game. Is possible.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment, various ideas are provided in order to make the production operation of the rotary sorter 294 more interesting. For example, as described above, the plurality of LEDs arranged on the semicircular arc on the LED board 381 are connected to the player on the front side through the specific area 343 and the normal area 344 formed on the outer peripheral portion of the rotating body 297. Therefore, the light emission mode is visible. The player can be more interested in the rendering operation of the rotary sorter 294 by the light emission mode of the plurality of LEDs included in the LED board 381.

  More specifically, when a variation display of two decorative symbols and a rank-up effect are executed in the lottery information display area 1151, at least behind the specific area 344 among the plurality of LEDs of the LED board 381. The light emission is controlled so that the LED located is emitted. From the viewpoint of the player, each LED on the LED board 381 seems to emit light sequentially in the clockwise direction so as to follow the specific area 344 rotated in the clockwise direction by the rotary sorter 294. As a result, the production operation of the rotary sorter 294 is gracefully decorated and the current position of the specific area 344 is suggested more emphasized, so that the player's sense of expectation can be further enhanced. .

  Further, when an effect for deriving the occurrence of a reach state or a hit (small hit or big hit) is executed in the lottery information display area 1151, light emission control is performed so that the plurality of LEDs of the LED board 381 are all lit. The As a result, the production operation of the rotary sorter 294 is further gracefully decorated, and the player has the greatest visual impact, so that the player can reach or hit (small or big hits). ) Can be ascertained reliably.

  The present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention as described below. And design changes are possible.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 is shown as a gaming machine, but if a symbol is displayed, a gaming machine other than the pachinko machine, for example, a pachislot machine, or a pachinko machine and a pachislot machine are fused. The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine or the like.

  In other words, a pachinko machine is a game in which an input medium such as a game ball that is a medium that a player inserts into the game machine and a game medium that is a medium used for a substantial game performed by the player are the same. This is a type of gaming machine in which a game is played using a medium such as a game ball that has been inserted. Specifically, “a launching device that launches a game ball in response to the operation of the operation handle, and appropriate equipment such as a number of obstacle nails, center objects, display means, etc. A game area provided with an appropriate entrance for a game ball such as a mouth, a passage opening, an arrival opening, etc., a rail for guiding the game ball from the launching device to the game area, and a game ball guided to the game area It is provided with a payout means for paying out a predetermined number of game balls as prize balls according to the entrance to the entrance and according to the entrance mode of the game balls to a plurality of entrances.

  There are various types of pachinko machines, which are generally represented by what is referred to as “digipachi”, “entrance state detection means for detecting the entrance state to the entrance (ie, game state) Detection means), lottery means for performing a predetermined lottery when a ball is detected by the entrance state detection means, and special symbol display means for changing the special symbol according to the lottery result of the lottery means and stopping the fluctuation. Or “additional effect image display means for displaying a decorative symbol sequence composed of a plurality of decorative symbols and causing characters or the like to appear at a predetermined timing” , Which is generally represented by what is referred to as a “multi-function machine”, comprising a lottery means for performing lottery by distributing game balls in an accessory and lottery means for performing lottery by winning at the start opening. ”, Represented by what is generally called“ Alepatchi ”“ For example, one game is played with a predetermined number of game balls, such as 16 games, and the game balls are placed in a plurality of entrances in one game. In accordance with this, “a payout of a predetermined number of game balls” can be exemplified.

  On the other hand, with a pachislot machine, a medal that is a game medium is inserted, and after inserting the medal, a symbol string composed of a plurality of symbols is displayed in a variable manner in accordance with the operation of the starting operation means (for example, an operation lever). It is a slot machine with a stop operation function that performs a substantial game of stopping the fluctuation of the symbol sequence in accordance with the operation of the stop operation means (for example, a stop button). If the stop operating means is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the change in the symbol sequence may be stopped when the predetermined time has elapsed. And, when the combination of symbols at the time of stopping the variation of the symbol row satisfies a specific condition, a predetermined number of medals can be paid out according to the satisfied condition, or the player can acquire a large amount of medals. In addition, a special gaming state advantageous to the player is generated. In this case, for example, the present invention can be applied as long as a symbol for performing an effect or the like is displayed on an image display device including a liquid crystal display or the like.

  In addition, a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a pachislot machine are combined is a plurality of (for example, five) game balls that are used as one unit of input medium. ) Is variably displayed in accordance with the operation of), and thereafter, the variation of the symbol string is stopped in accordance with the operation of the stop operation means (for example, stop button). If the stop operating means is not operated even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the change in the symbol sequence may be stopped when the predetermined time has elapsed. And, when the combination of symbols at the time when the variation of the symbol sequence is stopped satisfies a specific condition, a predetermined number of medals can be paid out according to the satisfied condition, or the player can acquire a large number of medals. A special gaming state advantageous to the player is generated.

  In addition, it seems that there is no gaming medium at first glance in a gaming machine that does not play a substantial game depending on the medium to be inserted, such as a pachislot machine or a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a pachislot machine are fused. However, even in such a gaming machine, it can be assumed that the game content played using a game ball or other appropriate article is included in the entire game content. Therefore, even such a gaming machine can be a target of a gaming machine in which a game is played using a gaming medium.

  In addition, the effect display device 115 in the above-described embodiment is preferably a liquid crystal display device, but is not necessarily limited to a liquid crystal display device. It may be a display device such as an EL display device, a plasma display device, and a CRT. That is, the mode is not limited as long as the symbols can be variably displayed.

  The pachinko machine 1 described in the embodiment for carrying out the invention can be expressed as the following technical idea. In the following, the terms described in the mode for carrying out the invention will be described as a general concept, and the terms described in the mode for carrying out the invention will be described. The above-mentioned “terms described in the mode for carrying out the invention” corresponding to “terms conceptualized” are described in parentheses in order to associate “ However, once the above-mentioned “terms described in the mode for carrying out the invention” corresponding to the “generalized terms” are described in parentheses, they are omitted in the subsequent descriptions in order to avoid duplicate descriptions. ing.

[Technology 1]
In the gaming machine described in the technical idea 1, when a predetermined result is obtained in a previous lottery performed when a predetermined condition is established, an entry lottery for allowing a game ball to enter a predetermined entrance is performed. Based on the fact that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery, the entrance allowance that allows the game ball to enter the predetermined entrance by opening the predetermined entrance that is always closed In performing the lottery using the control ball, the game ball that has entered from the predetermined entrance, the lottery means for performing the lottery in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, and the winning lottery Even if a game ball enters from the predetermined entrance opened based on the fact that the specific result was obtained in the entry lottery, the jackpot game execution means for executing the jackpot game based on the Only win with a certain probability The normal game execution means for executing the normal game in which the winning combination lottery is performed and the winning combination lottery so that the winning can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game. The appearance expectation game execution means capable of executing the appearance expectation game in which the object lottery is performed as if it is won with a probability higher than the predetermined probability, and can visually recognize the lottery process. In the game lottery performed in the form, although the appearance expectation game can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game, the degree of advantage is higher than that of the normal game It is intended to give a sense of expectation.

  In the gaming machine, when a predetermined condition is established, a first lottery (ordinary symbol success / failure determination unit 602) is performed by a first lottery (normal symbol success / failure determination unit 602), and a predetermined result is obtained in the first lottery. An entry lottery for allowing entry of game balls into the entrance (upper prize winning opening 141) is performed, and a predetermined result is obtained in the entry lottery. The entrance of the game is opened, and the game ball is allowed to enter the predetermined entrance.

  Further, the gaming machine includes display means (effect display device 115) for displaying a predetermined image, and display control means (liquid crystal control board 758) so that at least an image showing the result of the entry lottery is displayed. Display control. When the result of the entrance lottery is a specific result, it is preferable to perform an effect that inspires the player. Then, after an image indicating that the result of the entry lottery is a specific result is displayed on the display means, a predetermined entrance is displayed after a predetermined waiting time (interval time determined by the interval pattern determining means 624). Opened.

  A game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is used for an object lottery by an object lottery means (rotary sorter 294). The accessory lottery means has a winning opening (specific area 343) and a lost opening (normal area 344), and performs a predetermined movement so that at least the winning opening is displaced with a periodic movement. Then, when the game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is received by a hitting hole that is displaced with such a periodic movement, it is determined that the winning ball is won, and a big hit game is executed by the big hit game execution means 618. On the other hand, if it is accepted by the loser, it is discharged out of the gaming machine (at this time, the big hit game is not performed). Such a lottery process can be visually recognized from the outside (for example, a player).

  In this type of gaming machine, the game ball that has entered from the entrance is temporarily stopped by the stopping means (carrying piece 341) before being received in the winning entrance or the lost entrance (that is, before being used for the lottery). The vehicle is stopped at a predetermined stop position (a position within the carry-in piece 341). Then, when the stop is released by the stop release means (distributor drive mechanism 336), the game ball released from the stop is received by the hitting or losing mouth according to the timing at which the stop is released. However, the stopping by the stopping means is released after a predetermined time (3600 ms in the present embodiment) has elapsed after the predetermined entrance is opened. This fixed time is unchanged so as not to give distrust to the player. Details of the cancellation of the stop by the stop cancellation means will be described later.

  In addition, the lottery entrance including the winning entrance and the plurality of lose mouths are opposed to the predetermined stop position one by one in order, so that the game balls stopped at the predetermined stop position are released. Sometimes, the game ball can be received. In other words, a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is temporarily stopped at a predetermined stop position, and after the stop is released, it is received by a lottery opening that first faces the stop position. . However, it is not always necessary to temporarily stop the game ball that has entered from the predetermined entrance at the predetermined stop position, and first after the game ball reaches the predetermined position (the position corresponding to the predetermined stop position). You may make it accept in the lottery slot which faced.

  In addition, unlike the lottery process performed internally by software control, this gaming machine can visually recognize the lottery process of the lottery, so not only can reduce the distrust given to the player for the lottery process, It can be interesting to the process until the big hit game is played. However, as will be described later, in this type of gaming machine, there are various barriers up to the above-mentioned lottery drawing, and in particular, even though the lottery has been done, it continues to lose in that drawing. The distance to the jackpot is felt far away, and there is a problem that interest may decline.

  Here, the various barriers will be described before reaching the lottery. First, when a game ball flowing down the game area is received at the first receiving port (normal symbol start port 96), prior lottery (normal symbol success / failure determination unit 602) prior lottery (ordinary symbol success / failure determination unit 602). Symbol determination) is performed. When a predetermined result (ordinary hit) is obtained in this first lottery, the game ball can be received at the second receiving port (special symbol starting port 82). This second entrance is maintained in a rejected ball mode in which it is always difficult to receive a game ball flowing down the game area, and if a predetermined result is obtained in the first lottery, the game ball of the game ball is more than the rejected ball mode. It is displaced in a ball-tolerance mode that facilitates acceptance. The displacement from the rejected ball mode to the allowed ball mode is not limited to a case where a predetermined result is obtained in the first lottery.

  When a game ball flowing down the game area is received in the second reception port when the second reception port is in a permitted ball mode, the entry lottery means (special symbol success / failure determination means 612) moves to a predetermined entrance. An entrance lottery (special symbol winning / no-go determination) relating to the allowance of the game balls is performed. The predetermined entrance is always closed, and when the result of the entry lottery is a specific result (small hit), it is opened by the entry permission means (small hit game execution means 617) and flows down the game area. It is possible to enter a game ball to be played.

  In addition, a big hit lottery is performed based on the fact that the game balls flowing down the game area are received at the second entrance, and when the big hit lottery is won, the above-mentioned bonus lottery is not performed (or the bonus lottery is performed). The winning game may be executed even if the winning lottery result is lost). At this time, the big hit lottery is performed based on the reception of the game ball at the second receiving entrance, and the entry lottery may be performed when the result of the big hit lottery is a loss. Further, when an entry lottery is performed, a specific result may be always obtained.

  As described above, in this gaming machine, a predetermined result is obtained in the first lottery, a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery, and further, the entry that is released based on the fact that the specific result is obtained. Only when a game ball enters from the mouth can an opportunity to win a lottery. In addition, if a normal game (a normal game state in which the interval pattern is selected and determined by the normal time determination means 625) is being executed as described later, even if an opportunity for lottery drawing is obtained, it is possible to win only with a predetermined probability. Since a lottery will be held so that it will not be accepted by the mouth, even if it finally broke through various barriers and finally went to the lottery, it will continue to be a lottery for the player, There is a risk that the road to the big hit will be felt far away.

  Here, the normal game will be described. The normal game is a game executed by the normal game execution means (normal time determination means 625), and a game ball enters from a predetermined entrance opened based on a specific result obtained in the entry lottery. Even if it is, it is a game in which a lottery is performed so as to win only with a predetermined probability.

  Specifically, in the normal game executed by the normal game execution means (normal time determination means 625) in this gaming machine, an image indicating that a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery is displayed on the display means. From the predetermined waiting time (time of the interval pattern determined by the normal time determining means 625), the predetermined entrance is opened after passing through a different waiting time each time, so that the game ball that has entered from the entrance has a predetermined probability ( Only 1 / (N + 1) is allowed to be accepted by the winning mouth.

  More specifically, the game object lottery means (specifically, the rotating body 297) confirms that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery regardless of whether or not the normal game is being executed. Each time the displayed image is displayed on the display means, the operation of the accessory lottery means is started at the same timing so that the winning opening is displaced with a predetermined periodic movement. An image indicating that a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery is selected and determined as one of a plurality of patterns (interval patterns) having different waiting times (interval times) on the display means. Starting from the displayed time, a predetermined entrance is opened when the waiting time of the pattern selected and determined has elapsed. The multiple patterns include a hit pattern in which a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is received in a hit hole and a lose pattern in which the game ball is received in any of a plurality of lose holes. During execution of the above, there is no bias in the probability that any one of the plurality of patterns is selected and determined, and any pattern is selected with the same probability. In other words, during the normal game, a plurality of lottery entrances including a winning entrance and a plurality of losing exits, so that a plurality of game balls entering from a predetermined entrance are accepted with the same probability. One of the patterns is selected and determined.

  By the way, as described above, a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is temporarily stopped at a predetermined stop position. A game ball stopped at a predetermined stop position in this way is a predetermined standby time (interval time) starting from when an image indicating that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery is displayed on the display means. Then, the stop is released by the stop release means (distributor drive mechanism 336). In particular, during execution of a normal game, when any one waiting time is selected from a plurality of waiting times (first pattern to tenth pattern), and the selected one waiting time has elapsed, The stop of the game ball stopped at the stop position is released by the stop release means. Note that there is no bias in the probability that any one of the plurality of waiting times is selected, and any of the waiting times can be selected with the same probability. However, as described above, the stopping by the stopping means is released by the stopping releasing means after a certain fixed time has elapsed after the predetermined entrance is opened. The time from when the image indicating that a specific result is obtained is displayed on the display means until the predetermined entrance is opened is different.

  For example, when the number of winning holes included in the accessory lottery means is one and the number of loser openings included in the accessory lottery means is N (N is a natural number), the number of waiting times that can be selected is (N + 1). It is preferable that it is an integral multiple of (this number is M). In the normal game, the M waiting times are equally allocated to any one of (N + 1) hits and losers. Specifically, when an image indicating that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery is displayed on the display means, the stop is released after the selected waiting time has elapsed. When the game ball stopped at is released, the game ball will be accepted by any one of (N + 1) hits and losers with a probability of 1 / (N + 1). It becomes. In this way, in the normal state, even if an opportunity for lottery drawing is obtained, it can be accepted only by a probability of 1 / (N + 1).

  In detail, the winning lottery means of this gaming machine will be displayed every time an image indicating that a winning result has been obtained in the entrance lottery is that the winning mouth always stops at the same position (specific position). The operation of the accessory lottery means is started so as to be displaced with a predetermined periodic movement. Then, when the lottery for lottery is completed, the operation of the lottery for lottery is stopped when the winning slot is at the specific position. In this way, each time an image indicating that a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery is displayed, starting from the time when the image is displayed, the contact that stops at the specific position has a predetermined cycle. Since the operation of the lottery means is started so as to be displaced with a certain movement, whether or not the game ball stopped at the stop position is accepted by the entrance is released. It depends on the timing (that is, which pattern is selected from among a plurality of interval patterns).

  By the way, as described above, even if the game machine clears various barriers and has a chance to win a lottery, a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance only hits the door with a predetermined probability. During a normal game where a lottery is performed so that it will not be accepted, as described above, the player may feel a long way to the big hit, and there is a risk that the interest will be reduced. is there.

  Therefore, in this gaming machine, although the winning lottery is won only with a predetermined probability in the same manner as in a normal game, it looks like a winning character with a higher probability than the predetermined probability. The appearance expectation game in which the lottery is performed (the low probability advantageous state in which the interval pattern is selected and determined by the low probability advantage determination means 627) can be executed by the appearance expectation game execution means (the low probability advantage determination means 627). Yes. “The appearance lottery as if to win the game with a higher probability than the predetermined probability” means that, for example, a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance and is temporarily stopped at a predetermined stop position. Although it can be accepted only for a specific lottery slot (a winning slot and a missing outlet near the winning slot) out of the winning holes and a plurality of losing holes, it is actually only at a predetermined probability as in a normal game. This corresponds to a lottery of lottery performed in such a way that it is not accepted by the winning contact. In other words, in normal games, game balls that have entered from a predetermined entrance and have reached a predetermined stop position can be accepted universally at any of the lottery entrances and among the lottery entrances. In a game, the probability of being accepted by a winning mouth is the same as that of a normal game, but the probability of being accepted by a winning mouth near the winning mouth among a plurality of lost mouths is increased. In other words, in a normal game, the probability of accepting a lost mouth that is not in the vicinity of the winning mouth is assigned to the lost mouth near the winning mouth. The concept of “losing mouth near the winning mouth” differs depending on the total number of lottery mouths, but it corresponds to the missing mouth adjacent to the winning mouth, and further, the missing mouth adjacent to the winning mouth adjacent to the winning mouth ( It is also possible to correspond to the losing mouth next to the doorway.

  Note that the number of lost mouths needs to be at least three. This is because if the number of losers is two, both of these two losers will be adjacent to the winning hole, and it will be difficult to make a difference between the normal game and the appearance expected game. Therefore, in order to enjoy the effects of executing the normal game and the appearance expectation game, at least three or more lose mouths are required.

  Further, the appearance expectation game as described above is specifically performed as follows.

  First, the appearance expectation game executing means selects and determines a winning pattern with substantially the same probability as a predetermined probability so that a game ball is received at the winning opening with substantially the same probability as a normal game. As a result, the probability that a game ball released from the stop after entering from a predetermined entrance and temporarily stopping at a predetermined stop position will be accepted by the hit hole is substantially different between the normal game and the appearance expectation game. Have the same probability.

  However, the appearance expectation game execution means does not select and determine any one of the plurality of patterns that can be selected and determined in the normal game, but only the specific pattern including the winning pattern among the plurality of patterns. Select and decide as. Specifically, one of the specific patterns including a hit pattern and a hit near-miss pattern in which a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is received by the close-out near the hit mouth is selected and determined as one of the patterns. To do. As a result, in the appearance-expected game, game balls that have entered from a predetermined entrance can be accepted only in a specific lottery opening including only a winning opening and a lost opening in the vicinity of the corresponding opening.

  In this way, in the appearance-expected game, the winning pattern and the game ball that has entered from the predetermined entrance are accepted into the losing mouth near the winning opening, although the winning pattern is selected and determined with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability. By selecting and selecting one of the specific patterns including the hit-and-miss pattern near the target, the probability that a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance will be accepted by the hit hole is substantially equal to that of a normal game. Although the probability is the same, the game ball can be accepted only in the hit mouth and the loose mouth near the corresponding mouth. As a result, in the appearance expectation game, the player can be expected to feel that the degree of advantage is higher than that of the normal game even though the game can be won with the same probability as the normal game. Is possible.

  Also, it is possible to make it possible to execute a highly probable game with a higher probability of winning than a predetermined probability, but if the rate at which this highly probable game is executed is increased, the profit balance between the hall and the player will be lost. There is a risk that. Thus, by making the above-mentioned appearance expectation game executable, it is possible to increase the willingness to continue the game without losing the profit balance between the hall and the player.

  Note that the above “probability that is substantially the same as that of a normal game” is not limited to the same probability, but may be substantially the same probability (for example, the difference in probability is within a range of 10%). In addition, if the player cannot grasp whether the normal game is being executed or the appearance expectation game is being executed, the winning probability in the appearance expectation game is more than the winning probability (predetermined probability) in the normal game. May be higher, or the winning probability (predetermined probability) in the normal game may be higher than the winning probability in the appearance expectation game.

  Furthermore, in this gaming machine, regardless of whether the normal game is being executed or the appearance-expected game is being executed, the operating mode of the accessory lottery means (specifically, the rotating body 297) is changed. In other words, the accessory lottery means operates in the same manner. Thereby, despite the fact that the lottery is performed in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, it is difficult to grasp whether or not the normal game is being executed from the operating mode of the accessory lottery means. Specifically, regardless of whether or not a normal game is being executed, every time an image showing that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery is displayed at the same timing, The operation of the accessory lottery means (specifically, the rotating body 297) starts so as to start the displacement of the hitting opening from the same position. Furthermore, regardless of whether or not the normal game is being executed, the game lottery means is operated so that the winning opening is displaced with the same periodic movement each time, and the game ball entered from the predetermined entrance Is temporarily stopped and the stop is released after a predetermined time has elapsed since the predetermined entrance was opened. In this way, it is difficult to grasp the high probability that a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance will be accepted by the winning opening from the operating mode of the accessory lottery means. As described above, since the lottery is performed in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, only by looking at the operation mode of the accessory lottery means, a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance only hits with a predetermined probability. If it is found that a game that is unacceptable is being executed, the interest may be reduced. In this regard, according to this gaming machine, even if a game ball that has entered from a predetermined entrance is in the process of being accepted only at a predetermined probability, the lottery process can be visually recognized. Despite the fact that lottery is performed, it is possible to give a sense of expectation as if the probability that the game ball will be accepted by the winning mouth is higher than a predetermined probability, thereby suppressing a decrease in interest.

  As described above, the above technical idea 1 represents a core part of the technical idea of the gaming machine. However, the gaming machine described above is more specifically expressed as, for example, the following technical idea 2. be able to.

  In the gaming machine described in the technical idea 2, when a predetermined result is obtained in a previous lottery performed when a predetermined condition is established, an entry lottery for allowing entry of a game ball to a predetermined entrance is performed, Based on the fact that a specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery, the entrance allowance that allows the game ball to enter the predetermined entrance by opening the predetermined entrance that is always closed In performing the lottery using the control ball, the game ball that has entered from the predetermined entrance, the lottery means for performing the lottery in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, and the winning lottery Based on the fact that the jackpot game execution means for executing the jackpot game, display means for displaying at least an image showing the result of the entry lottery, and that the specific result is obtained in the entry lottery The predetermined opened Even if a game ball enters from the entrance, a normal game execution means for executing a normal game in which the winning lottery is performed so as to win only with a predetermined probability, and substantially with the predetermined probability in the normal game Despite the fact that the winning lottery is performed so that it can be won with the same probability, the appearance expectation game is executed in which the winning lottery is performed as if it was won with a higher probability than the predetermined probability. An appearance expectation game execution means capable of holding the game balls entered from the predetermined entrance at a predetermined stop position; and And a stop releasing means for releasing the stop of the game ball that has been released, and when the game ball released by the stop release means is received, a hitting hole where a big hit game is executed, and the game ball is received Even if it operates so that it can be accepted by any of the lottery ports including a plurality of losing ports where the big hit game is not executed, the specific result is obtained in the entrance lottery. A plurality of patterns having different times are prepared for the time from when the image to be displayed is displayed on the display means to when the stopping of the game ball by the stop releasing means is released. The game lottery is performed so that the game balls released by the stop release means can be received by the winning opening, and the normal game executing means The game balls released by the stop release means can be accepted for any lottery mouth including a plurality of lottery mouths, Of the plurality of patterns, the winning pattern is selected and determined with the predetermined probability so that it can be accepted with the predetermined probability (that is, any of the lottery ports including the winning port and the plurality of lost ports). The lottery opening is also selected and determined as one of the plurality of patterns so that the game balls released by the stop release means are accepted with the same probability), and the appearance expectation game execution means is the same as the normal game. Among the plurality of patterns, while selecting and determining the hit pattern with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability so that the game ball is received at the hit hole with substantially the same probability, The winning pattern is included among the plurality of patterns so that the game ball can be accepted only in a specific lottery opening including only a lost opening near the corresponding opening. In the game lottery performed in such a manner that only a predetermined pattern is selected as a control and the lottery process can be visually recognized, the appearance expectation game can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game. Nevertheless, an expectation can be given as if the degree of advantage is higher than that of the normal game.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 1a Prepaid card unit 2 Outer frame 3 Main body frame 4 Front frame 5 Game board 5a Game board 6 Lower receiving plate 7 Hinge mechanism 11 Front frame body 12 Game board mounting frame 13 Mechanism mounting body 14 Outer frame side hinge tool 15 Main body Frame side hinge device 16 Speaker box portion 17 Speaker mounting plate 18 Speaker 19 Launch rail 21 Compound rolling distribution device 22 First rolling area 23 Second rolling area 24 Specific outlet 25 Normal outlet 26 Specific outlet path 27 Normal outlet path 28 Stepped portion 30 Lower front plate 31 Lower plate 32 Operation handle 33 Ash tray 34 Ball discharge lever 36 Hinge mechanism 37 Game area 38 Open window 39 Window frame 40 Partition plate 41 Outer wall 42 Stage left margin 43 Right canopy 44 Warp exit 45 Approach path 46 Lamp driving substrate 50 Transparent plate 51 Upper plate 52 Side decoration device 53 Acoustic illumination device 54 Side decoration body 55 56 Transparent cover body 57 Speaker 58 Speaker cover 60 Warp passage 61 Floodlight decoration body 62 Outflow part 63 Warp inflow port 65 Main control board 70 Locking device 71 Locking tool 72 Body frame locking hook 73 Closing tool 74 Door locking hook 75 Cylinder lock 76 Outer rail 77 Inner rail 78 Guide rail 78a Launch port 79 Front component 81 Ordinary electric accessory 82 Special symbol start port 83 Lower side big prize port 84 LED
85 LED
86 LED
87 LED
90 Ball out port 91 Center accessory 96 Normal symbol start port 98 Attacker device 99 Opening / closing member 100 Under-stage illumination 101 Lens 102 Reflector 103 Circular notch 104 LED substrate 105 Count switch 106 Rotation angle switch 107 Full switch 108 Dispensing relay substrate 115 Production Display Device 117 Display Device Control Board Box 118 Box Mount 120 Front Unit 121 Rear Unit 123 Guide Wall 124 Opening 125 Decoration Frame 129 Electric Control Body 130 Sub Control Board Box 132 Main Control Board Box 133 Tank Mounting Section 134 Rail Mounting portion 135 Dispensing device mounting portion 136 Ball tank 137 Bottom plate portion 138 Discharge port 139 Rail component 140 Expansion opening 141 Large winning opening 142 Moving piece 143 Upper lid 144 Receiving portion 145 Middle frame 146 Large winning Unit 147 Game ball detecting means 148 Solenoid support part 150 Tank rail 151 Front wall part 152 Rear wall part 155 Rail shelf 156 Rectifier 157 Shaft 158 Rail receiving part 160 Big prize opening opening / closing drive means 161 Solenoid 162 Plunger 163 Link arm 164 Link Shaft 170 Ball delivery device 172 Delivery motor 173 Opening 192 Launch motor 193 Mounting substrate 194 Launch device 195 Power supply board 196 Power supply board box 198 Delivery control board box 210 Cover 210 Rear cover body 211 Cover hinge mechanism 212 Rear wall 213 Circumferential wall 213a Wall part 213b Wall part 213c Upper side wall part 214 Hinge body 215 Hinge pin 216 Hinge body 217 Elastic closing body 218 Inspection connector 230 Heat radiation hole 231 Heat radiation hole 232 Heat radiation hole 233 Heat radiation hole 235 Sealing 237 Code holder 238 Distribution board 239 Board connector 252 Interface board 253 Lower plate ball derivative 254 Board box 271 Discharge path unit 272 Left start port discharge path 273 Right discharge path unit 274 Sorting apparatus discharge path 276 Step 291 Opening 292 Rear frame 294 Rotary sorter 294a Visible area 296 Large winning opening attachment base 297 Rotating body 300 Back plate 301 Side plate 302 Decoration body 302 Large winning opening attachment window 313 Discharge sensor 317 First start opening sensor 318 First 2 Start-up sensor 319 Count sensor 322 Special holding ball lamp 323 Normal holding ball lamp 330 Winning port sensor 331 V Winning sensor 332 Special symbol display 333 Normal symbol display 334 Normal symbol drive mechanism 335 Large winning port opening / closing mechanism 336 Device drive mechanism 3 39 Attacker drive mechanism 340 Guide passage 341 Loading piece 342 Rotating body case 343 Specific region 344 Normal region 346 Outer wall 347 Inlet 348 Discharge port 349 Rotating body receiving surface 360 Specific outlet 361 Normal outlet 362 Rotation position sensor 363 Rotation position detection plate 364 Rotating shaft 365 Substrate 366 Decorative plate 367 Window portion 368 Rotation drive gear 369 Rotating body motor 371 External terminal plate 372 Firing control substrate 380 Game ball loading device 381 LED substrate 382 Rotating body back cover 383 Middle frame 384 Game ball detecting means 385 Game ball Detection means 386 Game ball detection means 387 First outflow path 388 Second outflow path 389 Third outflow path 394 Decoration lamp 395 Effect lamp 396 Prize ball lamp 397 Gradation lamp 400 Solenoid 401 Plunger 402 Link arm 403 Sorting device drive sensor 40 4 Link shaft 405 Rotating body drive means 433 Normal symbol variation control means 499 Winning slot unit 500 Normal winning slot 501 Winning path 502 Normal winning device 506 Upper surface inclined portion 507 Distributing projection 508 Obstacle nail 508a Right obstruction nail 508b Left obstruction nail 510 base plate 511 nail through hole 512 entry blocking member 513 bottom surface 514 prize opening 516 case member 517 special passage 530 special start opening unit 531 prize passage 532 special prize winning device 534 inclined face 535 receiving guide member 536 protrusion 538 winning device casing 539 wall 540 Transmission mechanism 541 Outlet 542 Opening 543 Movable guide wall 545 Front case 546 Rear case 547 Flange 548 Solenoid 549 Plunger 551 Arm member 553 Game ball detection means 554 Brake gate member 557 Mounting hole 558 Intrusion prevention member 601 Normal symbol per-determining random number extraction means 602 Normal symbol hit / fail judgment means 603 First hold means 604 First hold release means 605 Normal symbol display control means 606 Normal symbol hold display control means 607 Normal hit game execution means 608 Advantageous game execution means 611 Special symbol per-determining random number extraction means 612 Special symbol success / failure determination means 613 Second hold means 614 Second hold release means 615 Special symbol display control means 616 Special symbol hold display control means 617 Small hit game execution means 618 Big hit game execution means 620 Command transmission means 621 Ejection determination means 622 Winning determination means 623 Prize ball payout means 624 Interval pattern determination means 625 Normal time determination means 626 High probability advantage determination means 627 Low probability advantage determination means 630 Command reception means 631 Normal design image示制 control means 632 special symbol image display control means 758 LCD control board 758a liquid crystal control MPU
758b LCD control ROM
758c VDP
758d Image ROM
763 Sub-integrated board 763a Sub-integrated MPU
763b Sub-integrated ROM
763c Sound source IC
763d sound ROM
765 Main control board 765a Main control MPU
765b Main control I / O port 769 RAM clear switch 775 Dispensing control board 775a Dispensing control MPU
775b Payout control I / O port 775c External WDT
777 Error LED indicator 778 Error release switch 779 Ball removal switch 780 Main board 781 Peripheral board 1150 Image display area 1150a Visible area 1150b Concealed area 1151 Lottery information display area 1152 Game information display area 1153 Hold corresponding display area 1154 Normal symbol corresponding display area 1155 Special symbol display area

Claims (1)

When a predetermined result is obtained in the first lottery performed when the predetermined condition is satisfied, an entry lottery for allowing the game ball to enter the predetermined entrance is performed, and a specific result is obtained in the entry lottery. Based on what has been done, the entrance admission control means for allowing the game ball to enter the predetermined entrance by opening the predetermined entrance that is always closed,
In performing the lottery using the game balls that have entered from the predetermined entrance, the lottery means for performing the lottery in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized,
A jackpot game execution means for executing a jackpot game based on winning the prize drawing,
Even if a game ball enters from the predetermined entrance opened based on the fact that the specific result has been obtained in the entry lottery, the prize lottery is performed so that it is won only with a predetermined probability. Normal game execution means for executing a normal game;
Despite the fact that the winning lottery is performed so that it can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game, it looks as if it is won with a probability higher than the predetermined probability. Appearance expectation game execution means capable of executing the appearance expectation game in which the accessory lottery is performed;
In the role lottery performed in such a way that the lottery process can be visually recognized, the normal expectation game can be won with substantially the same probability as the predetermined probability in the normal game. A gaming machine characterized by giving a sense of expectation as if it has a higher degree of advantage.