JP2013244114A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which allows a player to easily participate in selection of a profit state without directly affecting a variation rate of symbols.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: a profit state selection means 72 for selecting one of two or more kinds of profit states on the basis of a distribution result by a distribution means 34 which distributes game balls that enter a ball entrance; a command transmission means 70, provided on a main control board 47, for transmitting a distribution state command related to the state of the distribution means 34 to a performance control board 48; an operation guide reporting control means 85a, provided on the performance control board 48, for executing operation guide reporting on the basis of the state of the distribution means 34 obtained by the distribution state command; and a backup means for holding game data on the side of the main control board 47 when power is interrupted. When power interruption is restored, the distribution state command is transmitted from the main control board 47 to the performance control board 48.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, an arrange ball machine, and a slot machine.

  A gaming machine such as a pachinko machine is configured to display a symbol variation based on an internal lottery that is triggered by a start winning, etc., and to generate a profit state based on the stop symbol after the variation becoming a specific mode. Is common.

  Among this type of gaming machine, for example, in the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, there are provided a plurality of types of profit states that occur based on the fact that the stop symbol after the change becomes a specific mode, and any of the plurality of start winning awards By configuring so as to select the type of profit state according to whether or not a prize has been won, it is possible to allow the player to intervene in technology and avoid the monotony of the game.

JP 2008-183044 A

  In the pachinko machine described in Patent Document 1, in order for the player to be involved in the selection of the profit state, it is necessary for the player to intentionally win a game ball at a specific start winning opening. Due to the nature of the mouth, it is practically impossible for the player to freely control the winnings at a plurality of starting winning mouths. In this case, since the start winning opening has a function as a profit state selection means in addition to a function as a symbol start means, it is difficult to adjust both functions. There is also a problem in that the rate of change of the symbol is directly affected by making the player more easily involved.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a gaming machine that allows a player to easily participate in the selection of a profit state without directly affecting the rate of change of symbols. With the goal.

  The present invention relates to a symbol display means 26 for variably displaying a symbol based on the establishment of a symbol start condition, and a profit state for generating any one of a plurality of types of profit states based on the symbol being stopped in a specific manner. In the gaming machine provided with the generating means 66 on the main control board 47, the launching means 6 for launching a game ball toward the game area 16 based on the operation of the launch handle 12, and the inside of the game area 16 A distribution unit 34 that distributes the game balls that have passed the specific position 31 to a plurality of areas 32a and 32b, and a distribution result detection that detects which of the plurality of areas 32a and 32b is guided by the distribution unit 34. Means 35a, 35b and the vibrations provided on the main control board 47 and during a specific period starting after the symbol has stopped in the specific mode. Profit state selection means 72 for selecting one of the plurality of types of profit states based on the detection results by the division result detection means 35a, 35b, and distribution relating to the state of the distribution means 34 provided on the main control board 47 Based on the state of the command transmission means 70 for transmitting a status command to a predetermined sub-control board 48 and the status of the distribution means 34 provided on the sub-control board 48 and obtained by receiving the distribution status command, the specific period The backup unit includes an operation guide notification control unit 85a for executing an operation guide notification including a notification regarding the state of the distribution unit 34, and a backup unit for holding game data on the main control board 47 side when the power is turned off. Based on the game data held by the During power failure recovery to be opened, in which are configured to send the distribution status command to the sub-control board 48 from the main control board 47.

  In addition, an origin position detection means 33a for detecting that the distribution means 34 is at a predetermined origin position is provided, and when the power supply is restored, the distribution state command is obtained based on the detection result of the origin position detection means 33a. You may comprise so that the distribution means 34 may transmit the origin position confirmation command which shows that it exists in the said origin position. In this case, it is desirable to perform a process of returning to the origin position when the distribution unit 34 is not at the origin position when the power supply is restored.

  According to the present invention, it is possible for the player to easily participate in the selection of the profit state without directly affecting the rate of change of the symbol. Further, since the distribution state command is transmitted from the main control board 47 to the sub-control board 48 at the time of power-off recovery, to the sub-control board 48 in which the state of the distribution means 34 before power-off is not stored, It is possible to recognize the state of the distribution unit 34 at the time of power-off recovery, and to accurately synchronize the notification content of the operation guidance notification after the game resumes with the actual operation state of the distribution unit 34.

1 is an overall front view of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the distribution means in the same pachinko machine. It is a block diagram of a control system in the pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence of the kind of jackpot aspect in the same pachinko machine, the kind of special profit state, and a special game state. It is a figure which shows an example of the processing content by the jackpot operation status in the same pachinko machine, and the special profit state generation means corresponding to them. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the jackpot start process in the same pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the round number selection process in the same pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the main process in the same pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing of the completion | finish (start of a special profit state) timing of the round number selection period in the pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the round number selection operation alerting | reporting image in the same pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the error alerting | reporting image in the same pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the priority regarding the display to the image display means in the pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the round number selection operation alerting | reporting process in the pachinko machine which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a whole front view in the pachinko machine concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the round number selection process in the same pachinko machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the round number selection operation alerting | reporting image in the same pachinko machine. It is a whole front view in the pachinko machine concerning a 4th embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the round number selection operation alerting | reporting image in the same pachinko machine.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. 1 to 12 illustrate a first embodiment in which the present invention is employed in a pachinko machine. In FIG. 1, a gaming machine main body 1 includes a rectangular outer frame 2 and a front frame 4 pivotally attached to a front side of the outer frame 2 by a hinge 3 on one side, for example, the left side. . On the front side of the front frame 4, the game board 5 and the like are arranged on the upper side, and the launching means 6 and the like for launching a game ball toward the game area 16 on the front side of the game board 5 are arranged on the lower side, respectively. The front door 8 is pivotally supported by a hinge 9 on the same side as the hinge 3 so as to be openable and closable, corresponding to the front side of the launching means 6 and the like.

  On the front side of the front plate 8, an upper tray 10 that stores game balls paid out from the payout means (not shown) and supplies them to the launching means 6 is arranged on the upper side, and on the lower side of the upper plate 10. For example, when the upper plate 10 is full, a lower plate 11 for storing the excess balls is provided on the left end side, and a firing handle 12 for operating the firing means 6 is provided on the right end side. Further, for example, a production operation button 14 is provided on an upper plate cover 13 that covers the upper plate 10 and the like from the front side.

  On the front side of the game board 5, a guide rail 15 for guiding a game ball launched from the launching means 6 is annularly mounted, and a center case 17 and a normal symbol are placed in a game area 16 inside the guide rail 15. Various game parts such as a starting means 18, a special symbol starting means 19, a big winning means 20, and a normal winning means 21 are arranged.

  The center case 17 is disposed, for example, in the approximate center of the game area 16 and includes a substantially rectangular display window 23 corresponding to the image display means 22 such as a liquid crystal display. The center case 17 is placed on a decorative frame 24 surrounding the display window 23. For example, in addition to various display means such as a normal symbol display means 25, a special symbol display means 26, and a normal reserved number display means 27, a stage 28, a round number selection effect means 29 and the like are provided.

  The stage 28 is arranged in the left-right direction on the lower front side of the image display means 22, and after freely rolling the game ball flowing into the side part of the center case 17, for example, the warp inlet 30 provided on the left side, For example, it is made to fall to the front side from the central drop part at the center in the left-right direction or the side drop parts on the left and right sides.

  The round number selection effect means 29 is used in the round number selection process described later, and is disposed, for example, at the upper part of the center case 17 and can be used to enter a game ball as shown in FIGS. For example, two first and second passages 32a and 32b for discharging the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 to the game area 16 and entered the entrance 31 (passing a specific position) The distribution means 34 for distributing the game balls to the first and second passages 32a, 32b (plural areas) by the distribution movable body 33, and the game balls guided to the first passage 32a side by the distribution means 34 are detected. The first game ball detecting means 35a that performs the second game ball detecting means 35b that detects the game ball guided to the second passage 32b by the distributing means 34, and the distribution movable body 33 are at a predetermined origin position. And a home position detecting means 33a for detecting and.

  The entrance 31 is opened upward, for example, on the upper side of the center case 17, and guides the entered game ball to the distribution means 34 on the downstream side. In addition, the entrance 31 is configured to be able to stop, for example, one incoming game ball before it is subjected to a sorting process by the sorting means 34. The distribution movable body 33 of the distribution means 34 is accommodated in the distribution chamber 36, and the entrance 31 communicates with the upper side of the distribution chamber 36 on the downstream side.

  The upstream and downstream ends of the first and second passages 32 a and 32 b communicate with, for example, the left and right side surfaces of the sorting chamber 36, and the discharge ports 37 a and 37 b of the downstream end portion are respectively connected to the left and right side surfaces of the center case 17, for example. The game ball that is open and flows into the upstream end by the sorting movable body 33 is caused to flow down by its own weight and is discharged to the game area 16 from the discharge ports 37a and 37b. The first and second game ball detecting means 35a and 35b are arranged at predetermined positions on the first and second passages 32a and 32b, for example, in the vicinity of the upstream end.

  The distribution means 34 includes a distribution movable body 33 and a distribution drive means 38 that rotationally drives the distribution movable body 33. The distribution movable body 33 is formed, for example, in a substantially circular shape when viewed from the front, and is disposed in the distribution chamber 36 in a state where the outer peripheral surface thereof is close to the inner peripheral surface of the distribution chamber 36, and the central axis is driven by the distribution drive means 38. It can be rotated around. On the outer periphery of the sorting movable body 33, for example, one concave ball holding portion 39 capable of receiving one game ball that has entered the ball entrance 31 is provided. The game ball stopped in the entrance 31 flows into the ball holder 39 (FIG. 2A) when it coincides with the ball entrance 31 (hereinafter referred to as the receiving position) (FIG. 2A). Is coincident with the left first passage 32a (hereinafter referred to as a first discharge position), the game ball held in the ball holding portion 39 is discharged into the first passage 32a (FIG. 2B), When the ball holding part 39 coincides with the second passage 32b on the right side (hereinafter referred to as a second discharge position), the game ball held in the ball holding part 39 is discharged into the second path 32b (FIG. 2). (C)).

  The distribution drive means 38 is constituted by a stepping motor or the like, and is mounted on the back side of the center case 17, for example, and the distribution movable body 33 is moved to a first discharge position (on the left side of the receiving position (FIG. 2 (a)) ( The distribution state by the distribution drive means 38 is switched by, for example, continuously swinging and driving between the second discharge position (FIG. 2C) and the second discharge position (FIG. 2B). As a result, during the period from when the sorting movable body 33 passes the receiving position toward the first discharging position until it reaches the receiving position (for example, in the state shown in FIG. 10B), the ball enters The game ball that has entered the mouth 31 is guided to the second passage 32b side (this period is hereinafter referred to as a second passage distribution period), and the distribution movable body 33 passes through the receiving position toward the second discharge position. The game ball that has entered the entrance 31 during the period from the first to the next reception position (for example, in the state shown in FIG. 10A) is guided to the first passage 32a (hereinafter referred to as this The period is referred to as a first passage allocation period).

  Further, when the player operates the launch handle 12 aiming at the entrance 31, the distribution movable body 33 determines whether the entrance timing to the entrance 31 is during the first passage allocation period. It is assumed that the motor is driven at a speed (for example, a cycle of 10 seconds) that allows easy control of whether or not the passage is being distributed. Note that, other than during the round number selection period described later, the sorting movable body 33 may be driven at a higher speed than during the round number selection period.

  The origin position detection means 33a is, for example, a photosensor, and when the sorting movable body 33 comes to a predetermined origin position (here, the receiving position shown in FIG. 2A is the origin position) It arrange | positions so that to-be-detected part (illustration omitted) may be detected.

  Further, the round number selection effect means 29 can visually recognize from the front side of the gaming machine body 1 that the game balls that have entered the entrance 31 are distributed to the first passage 32a and the second passage 32b by the distribution movable body 33. As such, at least a part thereof is formed to be transparent.

  The entrance 31 is an example of a specific position in the game area 16, and the first and second passages 32a and 32b are examples of a plurality of areas to which the distribution means 34 distributes the game balls. The two game ball detection units 35a and 35b are an example of a distribution result detection unit that detects which of the plurality of areas the game ball has been guided by the distribution unit 34.

  The normal symbol display means 25 is for variably displaying the normal symbol, and is composed of, for example, two light emitters (for example, LEDs) corresponding to two types of normal symbols “O” and “X”. Under the condition that the normal symbol starting means 18 comprising a gate detects a game ball, the two light emitters blink alternately for a predetermined time, and the hit determination random number value acquired when the normal symbol starting means 18 detects the game ball is obtained. If it matches the predetermined hit determination value, the “◯” side illuminant corresponding to the hit mode is in a light-emitting state; otherwise, the “×” side illuminator corresponding to the detachment mode is set. The blinking ends when the light is emitted.

  Further, when the normal symbol starting means 18 detects a game ball during the fluctuation display of the normal symbol display means 25 or during the normal profit state described later, a hit determination random number value acquired at the time of detection is determined in advance. The upper limit number, for example, four is stored as a limit, and the normal number-of-holds display means 27 made up of the same number of light emitters as the upper limit number, for example, stores the number of random numbers to be determined according to the number of light emission (hereinafter, the normal number of reservations). Is displayed, and the player is notified of the number of normally reserved items at that time.

  The special symbol starting means 19 is for starting the symbol variation by the special symbol display means 26, and comprises two upper and lower special starting ports 19a, 19b and an opening / closing means 41 for opening and closing the lower special starting port 19b. Arranged below the center case 17. The upper special start port 19a is a non-actuated winning port that does not have an opening / closing means or the like. The lower special start opening 19b is an actuated winning opening that can be switched between an open state in which a game ball can win a prize and a closed state in which a prize cannot be won by the opening / closing means 41. When the ordinary profit state occurs as an aspect, the opening / closing means 41 is configured to change from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined time and a predetermined number of times.

  The special symbol display means (symbol display means) 26 is composed of one or a plurality of, for example, one special symbol (symbol), such as a seven-segment display means that can display the variable symbols. Detecting a game ball (an example of establishment of a symbol start condition), that is, displaying a special symbol fluctuating for a predetermined time on condition that a game ball wins in one of the two upper and lower special start ports 19a, 19b, Stop in a predetermined jackpot mode when the jackpot determination random number value acquired at the time of winning the special start ports 19a and 19b matches a predetermined jackpot determination value, and stop in a losing mode otherwise. It has become. The special symbol is provided with, for example, one or more types of jackpots and disengages. Each of these aspects may be assigned a numerical symbol or the like, or a special combination of arbitrary lines and points so that the player cannot easily distinguish the type of the special symbol. You may assign a design that has no meaning.

  In addition, when a game ball wins a special start opening 19a, 19b during a special symbol change display or a special profit state to be described later, a jackpot determination random number obtained at the time of winning is reserved for a predetermined upper limit. The number, for example, each of four is stored as a limit, and for example, the stored number of jackpot determination random number values (hereinafter referred to as a special reserved number) is displayed on the image display means 22, and the special reserved number at that time is played. The person is notified.

  The big winning means 20 is an actuating winning means having an opening / closing plate 42 that can be switched between an open state in which a game ball can be won and a closed state in which a prize cannot be won. During a special profit state (profit state) that occurs based on stopping in a mode (specific mode), the open / close plate 42 opens to the front side according to a predetermined release pattern, and the game ball that has fallen on it opens to the inside It is designed to win a prize.

  In addition, in the image display means 22, for example, the effect symbol 43 is variably displayed in parallel with the special symbol variability display by the special symbol display means 26, a hold display image 44 showing the number of special holds, and a round number selection to be described later. Various images such as a round number selection operation notification image 45 (FIG. 10 and the like) for notifying operation and an error notification image 46 (FIG. 11) for notifying various errors are displayed.

  Here, the production symbol 43 is composed of one or a plurality of, for example, three numeric symbols in the left-right direction, and the special symbol starting means 19 detects a game ball, that is, two special starting ports on the upper and lower sides. On the condition that a game ball wins either 19a or 19b, the left and right are started so that the change starts according to a predetermined change pattern simultaneously with the start of the change of the special symbol, and finally stops simultaneously with the stop of the change of the special symbol. It stops in a predetermined order such as middle. In the effect symbol 43, for example, a combination of all three symbols in the same symbol is a jackpot mode, and at least one different symbol is a miss mode. For example, a special symbol is a jackpot mode The symbol 43 is also a big hit mode, and when the special symbol is in the off mode, the effect symbol 43 is also in the out mode.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the control system of the pachinko machine. In FIG. 3, 47 is a main control board, 48 is an effect control board, and each of these control boards 47 and 48 collects the center case 17 mounted on the game board 5 and a plurality of other game parts from the back side. Each of them is housed in a substrate case that is detachably mounted at appropriate positions on the back side of the gaming machine main body 1 including the front frame 4 and the game board 5 such as the back side of the back cover to be covered.

  The main control board 47 controls game operations in an integrated manner, and includes a normal random number generation processing means 51, a normal starting port check processing means 52, a normal random number storage means 53, a normal symbol, which are constituted by a CPU, a ROM, a RAM and the like. Processing means 54, normal symbol display control means 55, normal profit state generation means 56, special random number creation processing means 61, special start port check processing means 62, special random number storage means 63, special symbol processing means 64, special symbol display control means 65, special profit state generation means 66, special game state generation means 67, error processing means 68, distribution drive control means 69, control command transmission means 70, and the like.

  The normal random number generation processing means 51 is configured to repeatedly generate a hit determination random number or the like used for determining whether or not the changed normal symbol is set to be a hit mode at predetermined time intervals. The normal starting port check processing means 52 performs processing based on the detection of the game ball by the normal symbol starting means 18, and based on the fact that the normal symbol starting means 18 detects the game ball, the normal random number creation processing means 51. One hit determination random number value is obtained, and the hit determination random number value is stored in the first-in first-out normal random number storage means 53 with a predetermined upper limit reserved number (for example, four) as a limit. Yes.

  The normal symbol processing means 54 performs processing related to the fluctuation display of the normal symbol. The normal symbol display means 25 is in a state in which the fluctuation display is possible, and one or more hit determination random number values are stored in the normal random number storage means 53. On the condition that the number of normal holdings is 1 or more, the first hit determination random number value is extracted from the hit determination random number queue stored in the normal random number storage means 53, and the hit determination random value A hit determination function for determining hit / miss according to whether or not matches a predetermined hit determination value, and the type of stop symbol after fluctuation of the normal symbol is selected based on the hit / miss determination result A normal stop symbol selection function, a variable time selection function for selecting a normal symbol variation time, and the like are provided.

  The normal symbol display control means 55 controls the display of the normal symbol display means 25 on the basis of the normal symbol processing by the normal symbol processing means 54. The normal symbol display means 25 is in a state in which the normal symbol display means 25 can be variably displayed and the normal random number storage means. On the condition that one or more hit determination random number values are stored in 53 (the number of normal holdings is 1 or more), the normal symbol display unit 25 starts the variation of the normal symbol, and the normal symbol processing unit 54 Based on the elapse of the selected variation time, the variation of the normal symbol is stopped at the stop symbol selected by the normal symbol processing means 54.

  The normal profit state generating means 56 generates a normal profit state in which the opening / closing means 41 of the lower special start port 19b changes to an open state in accordance with a predetermined opening / closing pattern. A normal profit state is generated when it becomes a mode.

  The special random number creation processing means 61 is a jackpot determination random number used for determining whether the special symbol after the change is a jackpot mode or an out-of-track mode, as well as a stop symbol when the special symbol after the change is a jackpot mode For selection of jackpot symbol random number used for selection, selection symbol random number used for selection of stop symbol when special symbol after fluctuation is out of mode, variation pattern selection random number used for selection of variation pattern of production symbol, selection of special profit state The special profit state selection random number to be used and other special random number generation processing for repeatedly generating a predetermined random number are performed.

  The special start opening check processing means 62 performs processing based on winning of a game ball to the special symbol start means 19, and when the special symbol start means 19 detects a game ball, that is, the special start opening 19a, 19b has a game. Based on the winning of the ball, the jackpot determination random number value, the jackpot symbol random number value, etc. created by the special random number generation processing means 61 are obtained one by one, and the hit determination random number value, the bonus symbol random number value, etc. are determined in advance. It is configured to store in the first-in first-out special random number storage means 63 with the upper limit reserved number (for example, four each) as a limit.

  In the present embodiment, the fluctuation pattern selection random number, the off symbol selection random number, and the special profit state selection random number are not acquired when the special symbol starting means 19 detects the game ball. The special profit state selection random numbers are acquired at the time when the second game ball detecting means 35b detects a game ball during the round number selection period, which will be described later. In the same way as the jackpot determination random number value, etc., the special symbol starting random number 19 is acquired when the special symbol starting means 19 detects the game ball and stored in the special random number storage means 63. May be.

  The special symbol processing means 64 performs processing related to the special symbol fluctuation display. The special symbol display means 26 is in a state where the special symbol display means 26 can be variably displayed, and the special random number storage means 63 stores one or more jackpot determination random numbers. The special jackpot determination random number value is extracted from the jackpot determination random value queue stored in the special random number storage means 63 and the jackpot determination random number value is obtained. Is a jackpot determination function for determining jackpot / miss according to whether or not matches a predetermined jackpot determination value, a jackpot determination / decision result, and a special jackpot determination random number value stored in the special random number storage means 63. Stop symbol after change of special symbol based on random jackpot symbol random number value or newly acquired missed symbol selection random number value, that is, jackpot mode / outside A special stop symbol selection function for selecting the type of aspect, a variation pattern selection function for selecting a variation pattern of a production symbol based on the determination result of jackpot / outage and a newly acquired variation pattern selection random value, etc. Yes. In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, four types of 0-3 are provided as the special symbol jackpot mode.

  The special symbol display control means 65 controls the display of the special symbol display means 26 based on the special symbol processing by the special symbol processing means 64. The special symbol display means 26 can be variably displayed and has a special random number storage means. The special symbol display means 26 starts the variation of the special symbol on the condition that one or more jackpot determination random number values are stored in 63 (the number of special reservations is 1 or more), and the special symbol processing means 64 Similarly, based on the fact that the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern of the selected effect symbol has elapsed, the variation of the special symbol is stopped at the stop symbol similarly selected by the special symbol processing means 64.

  The special profit state generating means (profit state generating means) 66 is for generating a special profit state in which the special winning means 20 is opened in accordance with a predetermined opening pattern. A special profit state is generated based on stopping at.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, as a special profit state (that is, an opening pattern of the big winning means 20), a 2R opening pattern in which a short-time opening (for example, 0.2 seconds) is repeated for two rounds is released. A 15R release pattern that repeats 15 rounds of a closing operation (hereinafter referred to as a normal opening operation) on condition that a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls wins There are 5 types of 8R opening pattern that repeats the opening operation for 8 rounds, 4R opening pattern that repeats the normal opening operation for 4 rounds, and 12R opening pattern that repeats the normal opening operation for 12 rounds (an example of multiple types of profit status). Any one of these five types of release patterns is selected based on the type of aspect.

  In the example of FIG. 4, the 2R opening pattern is selected for the jackpot mode 0, the 15R opening pattern is selected for the jackpot modes 1 and 2, and the special symbol is the jackpot mode 3 for the jackpot mode 3. The fixed selection system in which the 8R release pattern (first profit state) is always selected by the round number selection process (specific period) that is started after stopping at the round, and the fixed selection system Either the 4R opening pattern (second profit state) that is disadvantageous to the player or the 12R opening pattern (third profit state) that is advantageous to the player is selected by lottery. The adoption is determined based on the player's selection operation.

  Here, whether the fixed selection system or the variable selection system is adopted is determined by whether a game ball launched during the round number selection period (specific period) enters the entrance 31 of the round number selection effect means 29. In the present embodiment, the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 is guided to the first passage 32a side and the first game is determined. When the ball detecting means 35a detects the game ball, a fixed selection system is adopted, and conversely, when the second game ball detecting means 35b detects the game ball, it is guided to the second passage 32b side and fluctuates. A selection system has been adopted. That is, the player can substantially arbitrarily select the fixed selection system and the variable selection system by adjusting the timing of launching the game ball toward the entrance 31 during the round number selection period.

  In the special profit state generating means 66, when the special symbol of the special symbol display means 26 is stopped in the big win mode after the fluctuation, the jackpot operation status is 00H to 05H in order to control the opening operation of the big winning means 20 in the special profit state. Depending on which one of them, processing corresponding to each state is executed. That is, the special profit state generating means 66 includes a jackpot starting means 71, a round number selecting means 72, a round starting means 73, a rounding means 74, a round continuation determining means 75, a jackpot ending means 76, etc. As shown in the figure, when the jackpot operation status is 00H, the “big hit start process” by the jackpot start means 71 is 01H, and when the jackpot operation status is 01H, the “round number selection process” by the round number selection means 72 is 02H. The “round start process” by the round start unit 73 is “03H”, the “round process” by the round unit 74 is 04H, and the “round continuation determination process” by the round continuation determination unit 75 is 04H. Is 05H, the “big hit end process” by the big hit end means 76 is executed. It is.

  The jackpot start process executed by the jackpot starter 71 when the jackpot operation status is 00H will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 6, it is first determined whether or not the type of jackpot mode is “3”. (S1).

  When it is determined in S1 that the type of the big hit mode is not “3” (S1: No), the accessory continuous operation device operation flag is set to ON (the accessory continuous operation device is operating) and the special advantage An initial value of 01H is set in a round number counter that counts the number of rounds in the state (S2). In addition, an accessory continuous operation apparatus means the function part for making the opening operation | movement for 1 round of the big winning means 20 continue a predetermined number of times.

  Subsequently, various data such as the maximum number of rounds, round number display data, jackpot start interval time, jackpot start interval command, etc. are set according to the open pattern (2R or 15R) corresponding to the jackpot mode types 0 to 2 ( S3) A jackpot start interval command is transmitted to the effect control board 48 (S4), and 02H corresponding to the “round start process” is set in the jackpot operation status (S5), and the jackpot start process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S1 that the type of jackpot mode is “3” (S1: Yes), the timer 72a (FIG. 3) of the round number selection means 72 corresponds to the time limit of the round number selection period. The value is set (S6), and the round number selection period is started. Here, the round number selection period is a period during which the round number selection process is executed, that is, a period in which the jackpot operation status is 01H. In the present embodiment, a predetermined time limit (for example, 30) is included in this round number selection period. Second) is set. Note that the value of the timer 72a is subtracted as time passes from the time when the initial value is set (S6), and becomes 0 when a predetermined time limit elapses from the start of the round number selection period. To do.

  Then, 01H corresponding to the “round number selection process” is set in the jackpot operation status (S7), and the jackpot start process ends.

  Next, the round number selection process (FIG. 7) executed by the round number selection means 72 when the jackpot operation status is 01H will be specifically described. The distribution movable body 33 of the round number selection effect unit 29 is always oscillated at a constant speed (for example, a cycle of 10 seconds) by the drive control of the distribution drive unit 38 by the distribution drive control unit 69, for example, during the gaming state. Shall. The round number selection means 72 is one of a plurality of types of profit states (special profit states) based on the detection results by the distribution result detection means (first and second game ball detection means 35a, 35b) during a specific period. It is an example of the profit state selection means for selecting.

  In the round number selection process (FIG. 7), it is first determined whether or not the value of the timer 72a is 0, that is, whether or not the time limit has elapsed since the start of the round number selection period (S11). If the value of the timer 72a is not 0, that is, if the time limit has not yet elapsed since the start of the round number selection period (S11: No), the first game ball detection means 35a and the second game ball detection means 35b. Are determined (whether or not a game ball is detected) (S12, S17). When both the first game ball detection unit 35a and the second game ball detection unit 35b are not turned on (S12: No → S17: No), the round number selection process ends at that time.

  When it is determined that the first game ball detection unit 35a is turned on (S12: Yes), that is, when the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 is guided to the first passage 32a side by the distribution unit 34 , The accessory continuous actuator operating flag is set to ON (the accessory consecutive actuator operating), the initial value 01H is set to the round number counter (S13), and the fixed selection system is adopted. An 8R release pattern is selected, and various data such as the maximum number of rounds (8R), round number display data, jackpot start interval time, and round number determination display command are set corresponding to the 8R release pattern (S14).

  Then, the round number determination display command is transmitted to the effect control board 48 (S15), and 02H corresponding to the “round start process” is set in the jackpot operation status (S16). As a result, the round number selection process ends, and the round number selection period also ends (FIG. 9A).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the second game ball detection means 35b is turned on (S12: No → S17: Yes), that is, the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 is distributed by the distribution means 34 to the second passage 32b. When it is guided to the side, the accessory continuous operating device operating flag is set to ON (the accessory continuous operating device is operating), and the initial value 01H is set to the round number counter (S18). A selection system is adopted, and a round number lottery process (S19) for determining either the 4R opening pattern or the 12R opening pattern is executed. In this round number lottery process (S19), for example, one special profit state selection random number created by the special random number creation processing means 61 is acquired, and using the special profit state selection random number value, the 4R release pattern and the 12R release pattern And a predetermined selection rate (for example, the same selection rate). The special profit state selection random number value may be acquired when the special symbol starting unit 19 detects a game ball, and may be stored in the special random number storage unit 63 or the like.

  When the round number lottery process (S19) ends, the maximum number of rounds (4R or 12R), round number display data, jackpot start interval time, number of rounds corresponding to the open pattern (4R or 12R) determined in the lottery Various data such as a decision display command are set (S20). Then, as in the case where the fixed selection system is adopted, a round number determination display command is transmitted to the effect control board 48 (S15), and 02H corresponding to the “round start process” is set in the jackpot operation status. (S16). As a result, the round number selection process ends and the round number selection period also ends (FIG. 9B).

  Thus, when a game ball launched by the player's handle operation enters the entrance 31 during the round number selection period started after the special symbol is stopped in the jackpot mode 3, the game If the ball is guided to the first passage 32a side by the sorting means 34, the fixed selection system is adopted, and if the ball is guided to the second passage 32b side, the variable selection system is adopted. If the fixed selection system is adopted, 8R is adopted. When the variable selection system is adopted as the opening pattern, either the 4R opening pattern that is disadvantageous to the player or the 12R opening pattern that is advantageous to the player as compared to the 8R opening pattern in the case of the fixed selection system is selected by lottery. Is selected.

  Therefore, when the player wants to reliably obtain a moderate profit while avoiding the risk, the player launches the game ball at the timing of entering the entrance 31 during the first passage allocation period, and the profit If you want to bet on the possibility that you will be able to get a larger profit even if you take the risk that the game will become smaller, you can launch a game ball aiming at the timing of entering the entrance 31 during the second passage allocation period That's fine.

  However, even if the special symbol is stopped in the jackpot mode 3 and the round number selection period is started, the player cannot perform the launch operation, or the game ball cannot enter the entrance 31. In this case, since neither the first or second game ball detection means 35a, 35b is turned on, the round number selection period proceeds without selecting either the fixed selection system or the variable selection system. Then, when a predetermined time limit has elapsed from the start of the round number selection period, it is determined in S11 that the timer is zero. In this case (S11: Yes), the processing from S13 onward is executed as in the case where the game ball is guided to the first passage 32a at that time. That is, the fixed selection system is forcibly adopted, and the 8R opening pattern is selected (FIG. 9C).

  As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the special profit state is not started indefinitely due to a reason that the player does not perform the launch operation in spite of the start of the round number selection period. In addition, in this case, the fixed selection system having a lower risk than the variable selection system is adopted, and the 8R release pattern is selected, so that there is no unexpected disadvantage for the player.

  As described above, when the special symbol displayed by the special symbol display means 26 is stopped in the big hit mode after the fluctuation, if the type of the big hit mode is any of “0” to “2”, the big hit operation status is 00H (big hit start If the type of jackpot mode is “3”, the jackpot operation status (FIG. 5) changes from 00H (jackpot start process) to 01H (round number selection process). After that, the process changes to 02H (round start process). Thereafter, a series of 02H (round start process) → 03H (in-round process) → 04H (round continuation process) corresponding to the release operation for one round according to the selected release pattern, regardless of the type of the jackpot mode. After the process is repeated for the number of rounds of the open pattern, the special profit state is terminated by changing to 05H (big hit end process).

  In the present embodiment, the detection signals of the first and second game ball detecting means 35a and 35b are ignored except during the round number selection period. For example, an opening / closing means is provided at the entrance 31 and the round number selection period. Alternatively, the opening / closing means may be opened to allow entry into the entrance 31. Alternatively, except during the round number selection period, by operating the sorting movable body 33 at a higher speed than during the round number selection period, it is possible to advance the game more quickly and smoothly.

  The special game state generating means 67 is for generating a special game state advantageous to the player in a predetermined period after the occurrence of the special profit state. For example, the big hit determination random number stored in the special random number storage means 63 is a big hit determination Based on the jackpot symbol random number value when it matches the value, the jackpot symbol random number value is configured to generate a short time state if it does not match a predetermined probability variation determination value, and if it matches, a probability variation state is generated. ing. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the probability variation state is set to occur when the type of jackpot mode is “0”, “2”, “3”, and the time shortening state is generated when it is “1”. It shall be. Of course, this is only an example. For example, when the type of jackpot is “3”, the type of special gaming state may be different between the case of the fixed selection system and the case of the variable selection system.

  During the short-time state, the variation time of the special symbol display means 26 is switched to the shortened variation time shorter than the normal variation time for the special symbol, and the hit probability for the normal symbol is a normal probability (for example, 1/10) to a high probability (for example, 1/10). For example, to 1 / 1.3), the fluctuation time is changed from the normal fluctuation time (for example, 27 seconds) to the shortened fluctuation time (for example, 2.7 seconds), and the opening / closing pattern of the opening / closing means 41 of the lower special start port 19b is the normal opening / closing pattern ( For example, it can be switched to a special opening / closing pattern (for example, 2 seconds × 3 times opening) from 0.2 seconds × 1 time opening. The time-short state is terminated when, for example, the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times (for example, 50 times) after the start or when the next special profit state has occurred so far.

  During the probability variation state, the number of jackpot determination values is increased from 1 to 10, for example, compared to other normal probability states, so that the probability that the special symbol is a jackpot mode is a normal probability (for example, 1/350). Is switched to a higher probability (for example, 1/35) than that, and for example, processing similar to the time-short state is also performed. Note that the probability change state ends when the next special profit state occurs, for example, but the predetermined end condition is satisfied by the time the next special profit state occurs (special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times, wins the falling lottery, etc.) In such a case, the process may be terminated at that time.

  The error processing means 68 performs processing relating to various error states. Based on detection signals from sensors arranged in each part of the gaming machine main body 1, for example, a dish full error when the upper dish 10 is full , An out-of-supply error when the number of game balls for payout decreases, a payout error when a payout of a game ball is not detected despite a payout command being issued, a glass door 7 and a front plate 8 during a game operation Monitors the occurrence of various error conditions such as door opening error when the etc. are opened, illegal prize error when a winning signal is obtained from the winning winning means, and if an error condition occurs, the error An error process corresponding to the state (for example, in the case of a dish full error, a payout stop command is output to the payout control means) and the control command sending means 70 is used. An error command corresponding to the error state is transmitted to the output control board 48 or the like, and when the error state is resolved, an error canceling process corresponding to the error state (for example, paying out when the dish full error is resolved) A payout start command is output to the control means), and an error release command corresponding to the error state is transmitted to the effect control board 48 and the like via the control command transmission means 70.

  The control command transmission means 70 is for transmitting a predetermined control command to the sub-control board side such as the effect control board 48 by one-way communication and giving a control command. Based on the special symbol processing by the special symbol processing means 64. In this order, the hold reduction command that specifies the reduction of the number of special hold, the change pattern specification command that specifies the change pattern of the production symbol, and the stop symbol command that specifies the type of stop symbol of the special symbol when the change of the special symbol starts. Is sent to the effect control board 48 side, and when the special symbol change ends, a function to send a change stop command for instructing the stop of change of the effect symbol to the effect control board 48 side, after the increase when the special symbol starting means 19 detects the game ball A function for transmitting a hold increase command for designating the number of special hold, etc. to the effect control board 48 side, special by special profit state generating means 66 With regard to the profit state, for example, a function for transmitting a jackpot start interval command, a round number determination display command, etc. to the effect control board 48 side at the time of start, an error command, an error release command, etc. are produced based on error processing by the error processing means 68 A function of transmitting to the control board 48 side is provided.

  In the main control board 47 configured as described above, main processing as shown in FIG. 8 is started when power is turned on from the outside. Note that, when the power is turned on, the power is turned on with the initialization switch (not shown) being turned on, for example, when the game hall is opened (hereinafter referred to as “when the power is initially turned on”). And when the power is turned on while the initialization switch is in the OFF state (hereinafter referred to as “when power is restored”), such as when recovering from a power failure state.

  When the main process (FIG. 8) is started, an initial setting process (S21) is first performed. In this initial setting process, for example, the RAM is set to write-protection, and the peripheral circuits such as the input / output ports and the random number generating means are set to the initial state. Then, after the predetermined interrupt mode is set, the value of the RAM clear signal is confirmed (S22). The RAM clear signal is a signal indicating whether or not the entire area of the RAM is to be initialized, and has a value corresponding to, for example, the ON / OFF state of the initialization switch.

  When the RAM clear signal is OFF as in the case of power-off recovery (S22: No), it is determined whether the backup data stored in the backup RAM is valid (S23). Whether or not the backup data is valid is determined based on, for example, the error detection code stored in the backup RAM together with the backup data immediately before the power is shut off. It is done by judging whether or not. This backup RAM is an example of backup means for holding game data on the main control board 47 side when the power is shut off.

  When it is determined that the backup is valid (S23: Yes), a backup return command is transmitted to the sub-control board such as the effect control board 48 (S24), and a game restoration process (S25) is performed. Is called. In this game restoration process (S25), for example, with respect to the round number selection effect means 29, an operation confirmation process of the sorting movable body 33 is executed, and it is confirmed in this action confirmation process that the sorting movable body 33 is at the origin position. In this case, an origin position confirmation command (an example of a distribution state command) is transmitted to the effect control board 48, and at the same time, driving of the distribution movable body 33 by the distribution drive means 38 is started. Thereby, the state of the sorting movable body 33 at the time of power-off recovery can be accurately transmitted to the effect control board 48 whose memory is cleared by power-off. If it is not possible to confirm that the distribution movable body 33 is at the origin position, a distribution error command is transmitted to the effect control board 48 instead of the origin position confirmation command.

  Here, the operation confirmation process of the sorting movable body 33 is performed in the following procedure, for example. That is, it is first determined whether or not the origin position detecting means 33a is ON (whether or not the sorting movable body 33 is at the origin position). If not, the sorting drive is performed until the origin position detecting means 33a is turned on. The means 38 is operated in a specific direction (for example, clockwise). Subsequently, the operation confirmation process toward the first passage 32a, that is, the distribution drive means 38 is operated toward the first passage 32a until the origin position detection means 33a is turned off, and then the origin position detection means 33a is again operated. The distribution drive means 38 is operated in the opposite direction until the ON position is reached, and further, the distribution drive means 38 is operated for a predetermined step toward the first passage 32a until the distribution movable body 33 reaches the first discharge position. A process for operating the sorting drive means 38 in the opposite direction is performed until the detection means 33a is turned on, and similarly an operation confirmation process for the second passage 32b is performed. By completing the operation confirmation process as described above without any abnormality, it can be confirmed that the sorting movable body 33 is at the origin position and that the sorting movable body 33 is in a normally operating state.

  When the game recovery process (S25) is completed, the game is resumed from the state before the power is shut off based on the backup data stored in the backup RAM (S26).

  On the other hand, if it is determined at S22 that the RAM clear signal is ON (S22: Yes) or the backup data is not valid (S23: No) at S22 as in the case of initial power-on, the stored contents of the RAM. Is initialized (S27), and an initialization command is transmitted to a sub-control board such as the effect control board 48 (S28). Then, the interrupt enabled state is set (S29), and thereafter, a counter update process for updating initial values such as various random numbers is executed in an infinite loop (S30).

  Even when the power is initially turned on, it is desirable to execute the operation confirmation process of the distribution movable body 33 and transmit an origin position confirmation command (an example of a distribution state command) or a distribution error command to the effect control board 48. Further, the operation confirmation process of the sorting movable body 33 may be executed at a predetermined timing other than when the power is initially turned on and when the power is turned off. Further, for example, during normal operation of the sorting movable body 33, an origin position different from the origin position confirmation command, for example, at a predetermined timing based on the detection by the origin position detection means 33a (for example, every detection by the origin position detection means 33a). A detection command (an example of a distribution state command) may be transmitted to the effect control board 48.

  The effect control board 48 is for controlling various effect means such as the image display means 22, the sound output means 81, and the illumination means 82, and the symbol variation effect control means 83, the special reserved number display control means 84, the notification control. Means 85 and the like are provided.

  The symbol variation effect control means 83 controls the variation display control of the effect symbol 43 and the accompanying voice output means 81, the illumination means 82, etc., receives a variation pattern designation command from the main control board 47, and then On the condition that the stop symbol command is received within the time, the stop symbol after the change of the effect symbol 43 is determined by lottery and on the image display means 22 based on the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command. When the change of the effect symbol 43 is started together with the effect image, and the change stop designation command is received, the change of the effect symbol 43 is stopped at the stop symbol determined by the lottery, and the change of the effect symbol 43 is displayed. A predetermined sound effect is output from the sound output means 81, and the electric decoration means 82 is made to emit light in a predetermined pattern.

  The special reserved number display control means 84 controls the display of the special reserved number on the image display means 22, and a new game ball is detected by the special symbol starting means 19, and a reserved increase command is received from the main control board 47. When this is done, an additional hold display image 44 is additionally displayed on the image display means 22 based on the number of the hold storage corresponding to the hold increase command. When a hold reduction command is received from the main control board 47 at the start, the hold display image 44 corresponding to the first hold is erased and the hold display image 44 corresponding to the second and subsequent holds is shifted forward. It is like that.

  The notification control means 85 performs control related to notification of various information to a player or the like using the image display means 22, the sound output means 81, the decoration means 82, and the like. The round number selection notification control means 85a, the error notification Control means 85b and the like are provided.

  The round number selection notification control means 85a notifies the player of a round number selection operation during the round number selection period. For example, a round number selection operation notification image 45 is displayed on the image display means 22 ( 10), a predetermined notification sound is output from the sound output means 81 in accordance with the display of the round number selection operation notification image 45, and the electric decoration means 82 emits light in a predetermined pattern.

  The round number selection operation notification image 45 includes various information such as the operation content to be performed by the player during the round number selection period, the time limit of the round number selection period, and the state of the sorting movable body 33. Information related to the operation content that the player should perform during the round number selection period includes, for example, “↑ Launch here!”, “8R fixed when guided left, 4R / 12R lottery when guided right”, etc. Can be considered (FIGS. 10A and 10B). As information related to the time limit for the round number selection period, for example, information that displays the remaining time until the end of the round number selection period, such as “15 seconds remaining”, can be considered (FIGS. 10A and 10B). . Further, as information on the state of the sorting movable body 33, “8R if it enters now” (FIG. 10A) during the first passage sorting period according to the state of the sorting movable body 33 (FIG. 10A), It is conceivable to display “4R / 12R if now entered” (FIG. 10B).

  Thereby, it is possible to make the player surely understand the operation content to be performed during the round number selection period, for example, a player who does not understand the game specifications despite the start of the round number selection period, It is possible to effectively prevent the situation where the launch operation is not performed until the occurrence of the special profit state. Further, in this embodiment, a time limit is provided in the round number selection period. However, informing the player of the round number selection operation during the round number selection period is a time limit in the round number selection period. This is more effective when no is provided.

  In the round number selection notification control unit 85a, the round number selection period and the state of the sorting movable body 33 are managed based on a command from the main control board 47. That is, regarding the round number selection period, the round number selection notification control means 85a receives the stop symbol command corresponding to the jackpot mode 3 from the main control board 47, and then receives the variable stop command and then the number of rounds. In addition to recognizing the start of the selection period, it is possible to recognize the end of the round number selection period based on receiving a round number determination display command from the main control board 47 thereafter.

  As for the state of the sorting movable body 33, the round number selection notification control means 85a recognizes that the sorting movable body 33 has been reset to the origin position based on receiving the origin position confirmation command from the main control board 47. For example, the state of the sorting movable body 33 can be confirmed and adjusted based on receiving an origin position detection command from the main control board 47. When the power is cut off due to a power failure or the like, the memory on the production control board 48 side is cleared, so it is not possible to recognize the state before the power cut off based on the contents of the memory when the power is turned off. In the case of the mode, since the origin position confirmation command is transmitted from the main control board 47 at the time of power-off recovery, the state of the sorting movable body 33 is newly recognized thereby, and the round number selection operation notification image 45 etc. after the game is resumed It is possible to accurately synchronize the notification content by the actual operating state of the sorting movable body 33.

  Here, the round number selection notification control unit 85a is an example of “an operation guide notification control unit that executes an operation guide notification including a notification regarding the state of the distribution unit during a specific period based on the state of the distribution unit”.

  The error notification control means 85b performs error notification related to the occurrence of various error states. Based on the reception of various error commands from the main control board 47, the image display means until the error release command is received thereafter, for example. 22, an error notification image 46 corresponding to the error state is displayed (FIG. 11).

  Here, regarding the image display on the image display means 22, for example, the display of the round number selection operation notification image 45 by the round number selection notification control means 85a and the display of the error notification image 46 by the error notification control means 85b compete. The notification control means 85 controls the display on the image display means 22 according to the priority order as shown in FIG. That is, when the error notification image 46 relates to a fraud related error related to a fraudulent act such as a door opening error or a fraud prize-winning error, the error notification image 46 related to the fraud related error is used as the round number selection operation notification image 45. If the error notification image 46 relates to a general error not related to fraud such as a full dish error, a replenishment error, a payout error, etc., an error related to the general error is displayed. The round number selection operation notification image 45 is given priority over the notification image 46 and is displayed on the image display means 22.

  As described above, the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment has the launching means 6 that launches the game ball toward the game area 16 based on the operation of the launch handle 12 and the entrance 31 in the game area 16. A distribution means 34 that distributes the game balls entered into the first and second passages 32a and 32b, and a first that detects whether the game balls are guided to the first and second passages 32a and 32b by the distribution means 34. , Second game ball detection means 35a, 35b, and first and second game ball detection means 35a provided on the main control board 47 and during the round number selection period started after the special symbol stops in a specific manner, Round number selection means 72 for selecting the number of rounds in the special profit state based on the detection result by 35b, and a distribution form for the state of the distribution means 34 provided on the main control board 47 Control command transmission means 70 for transmitting commands (origin position confirmation command, origin position detection command) to the production control board 48, and a distribution state command (origin position confirmation command, origin position detection command) provided on the production control board 48 The round number selection notification control means 85a for performing operation guidance notification including notification regarding the state of the distribution means 34 during the round number selection period based on the state of the distribution means 34 obtained by receiving the main control board when the power is shut off Backup control means for holding game data on the 47 side, and at the time of power-off recovery for restarting the game from the state before power-off based on the game data held by the backup means, the main control board 47 to the effect control board 48 Send the distribution status command (origin position confirmation command) to Therefore, it is possible for the player to easily participate in the selection of the profit state without directly affecting the fluctuation rate of the symbol, and the state of the distribution means 34 before the power is shut off. An effect control board 48 that is not stored recognizes the state of the distribution means 34 at the time of power-off recovery, and the notification content of the operation guidance notification after the game resumes is accurately synchronized with the actual operation state of the distribution means 34. It becomes possible.

  FIG. 13 exemplifies the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows an example in which the output of the notification sound in the notification related to the round number selection operation is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the round number selection period. ing.

  FIG. 13 shows a procedure of round number selection operation notification processing by the round number selection notification control means 85a of the present embodiment. This round number selection operation notification process is executed, for example, at a periodic interruption.

  In this round number selection operation notification process (FIG. 13), first, the state related to the round number selection period, that is, whether the round number selection period is started, whether the round number selection period is in progress, or whether the round number selection period has ended, Alternatively, it is determined whether it is other than that (except during the round number selection period) (S31, S35, S41).

  When it is determined that the round number selection period has started (S31: Yes), the display of the round number selection operation notification image 45 on the image display means 22 (S32), the light emission of the decoration means 82 (S33), and the sound The output of the notification sound by the output means 81 (S34) is started.

  When it is determined that the round number selection period is in progress (S31: No → S35: Yes), the display of the round number selection operation notification image 45 on the image display means 22 and the light emission of the illumination means 82 are performed. Is continued as it is, but the output of the notification sound is continued as it is when a predetermined time has not yet elapsed from the start of the round number selection period (S38: No) (S40), the round number selection period When a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the operation (S38: Yes), the operation is stopped at that time (S39). Here, this predetermined time needs to be set at least shorter than the time limit when a time limit (for example, 30 seconds) is provided in the round number selection period.

  When it is determined that the round number selection period has ended (S31: No → S35: No → S41: Yes), the display of the round number selection operation notification image 45 on the image display means 22 and the illumination means 82 are performed. Is stopped (S42, S43), and the output of the notification sound is also stopped at that time (S45) if it is still continuing (S44: Yes).

  Thereby, when the player temporarily leaves the seat during the round number selection period, it is possible to reduce the discomfort of surrounding players due to repeated notification sounds regarding the round number selection period. If there is no time limit for the round selection period, or if the time limit is set but it is very long, the player who understands the game specifications will use that period. Since it is assumed that it stands in a toilet etc., the structure like this embodiment is especially effective.

  In the present embodiment, only the output of the notification sound is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the round number selection period, but the illumination light emission may also be stopped together with the output of the notification sound. Then, all notifications regarding the round number selection operation including the round number selection operation notification image 45 may be stopped.

  14 to 16 exemplify the third embodiment of the present invention. The first embodiment is partially modified, and the round number selection effecting means 29 is not provided with the distributing means 34, and is entered into the entrance 31. An example is shown in which one game ball detecting means 35 for detecting a game ball that has been balled is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the round number selection effect unit 29 of the present embodiment includes a entrance 31 into which a game ball can enter and a game ball detection unit that detects a game ball that has entered the entrance 31. 35, and a game ball passage 32 for discharging the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 to the game area 16. The entrance 31 is opened upward, for example, on the upper side of the center case 17, and the entered game ball is detected by the game ball detecting means 35, and then guided to the game ball passage 32 and, for example, the center case. It is discharged toward the left side of 17.

  FIG. 15 shows a flowchart of the round number selection process executed by the round number selection means 72 of this embodiment. FIG. 16 shows an example of the round number selection operation notification image 45 in the present embodiment.

  In the round number selection process according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the processes after S13 when the fixed selection system is adopted and the processes after S18 when the variable selection system is adopted are shown in FIG. Although it is the same as the round number selection processing according to the first embodiment, the processing content regarding the determination of which one of the fixed / variable selection system is adopted is different.

  That is, in the round number selection process (FIG. 15) according to the present embodiment, it is first determined whether or not the value of the timer 72a is 0, that is, whether or not the time limit has elapsed since the start of the round number selection period. S11) If the value of the timer 72a is not 0, that is, if the time limit has not yet elapsed from the start of the round number selection period (S11: No), whether or not the game ball detecting means 35 is turned on, that is, It is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the entrance 31 (S17a).

  Here, when it is determined that the game ball detection means 35 is not turned on, that is, when a game ball is not entering the entrance 31 (S17a: No), the round number selection process is performed here. When it is determined that the game ball detecting means 35 is turned on, that is, when a game ball enters the entrance 31 (S17a: Yes), the processing after S18 corresponding to the variable selection system is performed. Is executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S11 that the value of the timer 72a is 0, that is, if the time limit has elapsed since the start of the round number selection period (S11: Yes), the processes in and after S13 corresponding to the fixed selection system Is executed.

  Thus, when a game ball launched by the player's handle operation enters the entrance 31 after the start of the round number selection period and before the time limit elapses, the 4R release pattern (the first (2 profit state) and 12R opening pattern (third profit state) are selected by lottery, and the time limit has passed without a game ball entering the entrance 31 A fixed selection system is employed in which the 8R opening pattern (first profit state) is fixedly selected.

  Therefore, if a player wants to obtain a moderate profit by avoiding the risk, after the start of the round number selection period, the player will stop the launch operation until the time limit has passed, and the risk that the profit will be reduced. If the player wants to bet on the possibility of obtaining a larger profit even if he / she wins, the launch operation may be performed aiming at the entrance 31 during the round number selection period.

  In the case of the present embodiment as described above, the special profit state depends on whether the game ball detecting means 35 has detected during the round number selection period or whether a predetermined time limit has elapsed since the start of the round number selection period without detection. Therefore, the distribution means 34 is not provided, and only the game ball detection means 35 for detecting the game ball that has entered the entrance 31 is provided, as in the first embodiment. Thus, it is possible to realize a configuration in which a fixed / variable selection system can be selected by player operation.

  Contrary to the case of this embodiment, the game ball launched by the player's handle operation entered the entrance 31 after the start of the round number selection period and before the time limit has elapsed. In this case, a fixed selection system may be employed, and a variable selection system may be employed when the time limit has elapsed without a game ball entering the entrance 31.

  FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The third embodiment is further modified to change the detection means of the normal symbol starting means 18 during the round number selection period. The example comprised so that it may use also as the game ball detection means 35 which concerns on a selection process is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the normal symbol starting means 18 constituted by a passage gate is provided with a game ball detection means 35 for detecting a game ball passing through the passage gate. On the condition that a game ball is detected, the normal symbol change by the normal symbol display means 25 is started.

  The round number selection process executed by the round number selection means 72 of this embodiment is the same as the round number selection process (FIG. 15) according to the third embodiment. FIG. 18 shows an example of the round number selection operation notification image 45 in the present embodiment.

  Thus, when the game ball launched by the player's handle operation passes through the normal symbol starting means 18 after the start of the round number selection period and before the time limit elapses, the 4R release pattern (first (2 profit state) and 12R release pattern (third profit state) are adopted by a variable selection system in which a selection is made by lottery, and the game ball has not passed through the normal symbol starting means 18 and the time limit has elapsed. A fixed selection system is employed in which the 8R opening pattern (first profit state) is fixedly selected.

  Therefore, if a player wants to obtain a moderate profit by avoiding the risk, after the start of the round number selection period, the player will stop the launch operation until the time limit has passed, and the risk that the profit will be reduced. If the player wants to bet on the possibility of obtaining a larger profit even if he / she is charged, the firing operation may be performed aiming at the normal symbol starting means 18 during the round number selection period.

  In the case of the present embodiment as described above, a fixed / variable selection system can be selected by a player's operation as in the first embodiment without newly providing the entrance 31 and the game ball detecting means 35. The configuration can be realized.

  In the case of the present embodiment as well, when the game ball launched by the player's handle operation passes through the normal symbol starting means 18 after the start of the round number selection period and before the time limit elapses. A fixed selection system may be employed, and the variable selection system may be employed when the time limit has elapsed without the game ball passing through the normal symbol starting means 18.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to these embodiment, A various change is possible in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of this invention. For example, in the embodiment, the example in which the round number selection effect means 29 including the entrance 31 and the distribution means 34 is provided on the center case 17 is shown, but it may be provided on a game component other than the center case 17. However, it may be arranged on the game area 16 in a state independent of other game parts.

  The distribution state command only needs to indicate the state of the distribution unit 34. For example, when a plurality of states can be detected for the distribution unit 34 on the main control board 47 side, which one of the plurality of states is detected. May be transmitted to the effect control board 48.

  In the embodiment, the predetermined state detection means 35a, 35b, 35 is configured to select either the fixed selection system or the variable selection system based on the detection of the predetermined state during the round number selection period. May be three or more. Further, all of the options may be a fixed selection system or a variable selection system.

  The profit state is also arbitrary. Based on the fact that the predetermined state detection means 35a, 35b, 35 detects the predetermined state during the round number selection period, for example, the type of special gaming state (probability change / time reduction, probability change or time reduction continuation) (Period etc.) may be selected.

  When the operation confirmation process of the sorting movable body 33 is performed at the time of power-on (at the time of power-off recovery, at the time of initial power-on), until it is confirmed by the operation confirmation process that the sorting movable body 33 is at the origin position, It is desirable not to determine the number of rounds by the round number selection process even if the first and second game ball detecting means 35a, 35b, etc. detect the game balls. Thereby, for example, when the power is cut off during the round number selection period, the player performs an unintended selection by the operation of the irregular sort movable body 33 during the operation check process performed at the time of the power-off recovery after that. Can be prevented.

  Further, the present invention can be similarly implemented in game machines other than ball game machines such as slot machines, in addition to various ball game machines such as arrange ball machines and sparrow ball game machines.

6 launching means 12 firing handle 16 game area 26 special symbol display means (symbol display means)
31 Entrance (specific position)
32a First passage (first region)
32b Second passage (second region)
33a Origin position detection means 34 Distribution means 35a First game ball detection means (distribution result detection means)
35b Second game ball detecting means (distribution result detecting means)
47 Main control board 48 Production control board (sub control board)
66 Special profit status generating means (profit status generating means)
70 Control command transmission means (command transmission means)
72 Round number selection means (profit status selection means)
85a Round number selection notification control means (operation guidance notification control means)

Claims (3)

The symbol display means for variably displaying the symbols based on the establishment of the symbol start condition, and the profit state generating means for generating any of a plurality of types of profit states based on the symbols being stopped in a specific manner. In a gaming machine provided on a control board, a launching means for launching a game ball toward a game area based on an operation of a launch handle, and a plurality of game balls that have passed a specific position in the game area And a distribution result detecting means for detecting to which of the plurality of areas the game ball has been guided by the distribution means, and the symbol is provided on the main control board and stops in the specific mode. Profit state selection for selecting one of the plurality of types of profit states based on a detection result by the distribution result detection means during a specific period started after A command transmission means provided on the main control board and transmitting a distribution status command relating to the status of the distribution means to a predetermined sub-control board; and receiving the distribution status command provided on the sub-control board. Based on the state of the distribution means obtained by the operation guidance notification control means for executing the operation guidance notification including notification regarding the state of the distribution means during the specific period, and the game data on the main control board side when the power is shut off Back-up means for holding, and upon power-off recovery to resume the game from the state before power-off based on the game data held by the backup means, the main control board to the sub-control board A gaming machine configured to transmit the distribution state command. Origin position detection means for detecting that the distribution means is at a predetermined origin position, and at the time of power-off recovery, the distribution means uses the origin position detection means as the distribution state command based on the detection result of the origin position detection means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is configured to transmit an origin position confirmation command indicating that it is in a position. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein at the time of the power-off recovery, the game machine is configured to execute a process of returning to the origin position when the distribution unit is not at the origin position.

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