JP2014064853A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of supplying a game ball to a distribution device at an appropriate timing.SOLUTION: A supply device 50 includes a slope 41; a recessed portion 42 positioned in a downstream side of the slope 41 and having a space necessary for a game ball to be put in; a wall portion 43, as a block member, distanced from the slope 41 and having a bounce face 43f for bouncing the game ball falling on the slope 41 toward the recessed portion 42; and a protrusion portion 47 which affects behavior of the game ball with respect to the recessed portion 42. The game ball falling on the slope 41 will contact with another game ball at a position nearer to the downstream side of the slope 41 due to the protrusion portion 47, thus falling to the downstream side of the slope 41 due to its own weight to continue to fall down. Therefore, jamming of the game ball on the slope 41 can be prevented.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that draws a jackpot by winning a game ball.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a big hit lottery is performed when a game ball wins a prize such as a start opening. When the jackpot is won, the gaming machine is put into a jackpot gaming state in which the jackpot is opened and many winning balls can be obtained. In the gaming machine, various effects such as display on the image display unit, lighting of various lamps, and sound by a speaker are performed in accordance with the game of the game ball by the player.

  Conventionally, various structures for enhancing interest using a game ball have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This Patent Document 1 includes a winning device arranged on a game board and a rotating body having ten accommodating portions along the circumference, and a game ball is guided to a specific area in a normal gaming state. Accordingly, in a gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state advantageous to the player, when the game ball wins into the winning device in the normal gaming state, the first passing port is closed by the shutter, and the gaming ball is accommodated in the third storage. When the rotary body rotates and the third storage portion and the third passage opening coincide with each other, the gaming ball is led from the third passage opening to the specific area and becomes a big hit state. It is disclosed.

JP 2004-73872 A

Here, when a distribution device that distributes game balls is installed and a game ball is supplied to the distribution device by launching the game balls, the game balls are fired in a timely manner depending on the distribution structure. It may be difficult to play, and there is a risk that the enjoyment of the game will be diminished.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can supply a game ball to a sorting device with good timing.

A gaming machine to which the present invention is applied is a gaming machine 100 in which a game ball is launched into the game area 111 and a game is played. The game machine 111 receives the game ball and distributes the game ball, and the game area 111. A stop space 42 is formed, which is a space for temporarily stopping game balls launched in the game, and a game ball temporarily stopped in the stop space 42 is provided to the distribution means 10 in a predetermined case. The device 50 and a restriction unit that restricts another game ball that flows down outside the stop space 42 from entering the stop space 42 in a state where the game ball is stopped in the stop space 42 of the providing device 50 47.
Here, the restriction unit 46 is caused by the fact that the other game balls rolling on the slope 41 arranged in the game area 111 come into contact with the game balls temporarily stopped in the stop space 42 of the providing device 50. Thus, it is possible to limit the intrusion into the stop space 42 so as not to stop on the slope 41. In this case, it is possible to more reliably prevent the occurrence of clogging.

  In addition, the said code | symbol in this column is attached | subjected illustratively in the description of this invention, and this invention is not reduced by this code | symbol.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to supply the game balls to the sorting device with good timing.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is the elements on larger scale of the pachinko gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a round start switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting | standby setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a round start flag determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the production | presentation control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of command reception processing. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting of the mode flag in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the change effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during completion | finish of a fluctuation production. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the waiting process of an association apparatus operation | movement. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the combination apparatus operation | movement effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the win production | presentation selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the ending effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting command reception process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of effect button processing. It is a time chart explaining the control from the change of a special symbol to the big prize opening and closing. It is a figure explaining the special prize opening unit which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure explaining a big prize opening unit. It is a figure explaining the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a top view explaining the distribution function of a distribution apparatus. It is a top view explaining the structure of the distribution apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the distribution function of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the distribution function of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the distribution function of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the big prize opening unit which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and displays a decorative symbol for notifying the player of a symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) as the game progresses by the player, An effect image by the appearance of a character or an item is displayed.
In addition, a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 110. The movable accessory 115 performs various effects by operating on the game board 110, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various functions related to winning and lottery, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 that win when a game ball enters and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) starts, A lottery gate 124 that starts a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) when it passes is arranged on the game board 110.
Here, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 refer to a winning port related to winning a game ball that activates one predetermined special symbol display.
The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers opened and closed by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blade is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122, but when the blade is opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 is expanded and the game ball is moved to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.
The lottery gate 124 is provided in the game area 111 so that game balls pass through it, and is used to create an opportunity for the normal symbol lottery unit 232 to perform the normal symbol lottery. Further, one lottery gate 124 is arranged on each of the left and right sides of the game area 111 so that a left-handed game ball can pass and a right-handed game ball can pass. It is arranged.

The game board 110 includes a distribution device 10 for distributing game balls launched into the game area 111 to any one of a plurality of predetermined distribution destinations. A distribution device 10 that is indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 1 is located on the right side of the game area 111 when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is viewed from the front. In other words, the sorting device 10 sorts game balls that have been hit right.
Although the details will be described later, the sorting device 10 is exclusively used to start the operation (round) of the accessory continuous operation device, and the first round start gate 141, the second round start gate 142, and the third round start third. A gate 143 (see FIG. 29A) is provided. Hereinafter, the first round start gate 141, the second round start gate 142, and the third round start gate 143 may be referred to as round start gates 141 to 143.

  These round start gates 141 to 143 are different from the lottery gate 124 shown in FIG. In other words, the round start gates 141 to 143 are not for normal symbol lottery but for exclusive use for starting a round. The round start gates 141 to 143 are arranged on the game board 110 via the distribution device 10. More specifically, the round start gates 141 to 143 are provided outside the special winning opening 125 and are examples of specific gates.

Although details will be described later, the first round start gate 141, the second round start gate 142, and the third round start gate 143 of the sorting device 10 are sequentially started to detect the passing of a game ball. 1 switch 225, round start 2nd switch 226, and round start 3rd switch 227 (refer to Drawing 3) are installed. Hereinafter, the round start first switch 225, the round start second switch 226, and the round start third switch 227 may be referred to as round start switches 225 to 227.
A round start flag is set when the round start switches 225 to 227 are detected (see FIG. 7-2), and the maximum number of rounds (Rx) corresponding to the detected round start switches 225 to 227. Is set (see FIG. 7-2). Thereafter, the continuous opening / closing operation of the door (movable member) 128 of the special winning opening 125 is controlled by the set round start flag (see FIG. 14-3). The control of the continuous opening / closing operation is performed until the set number of rounds is completed. Although different from the present embodiment, a configuration example in which the round start gates 141 to 143 are controlled so as to also serve as a normal symbol lottery using a conventionally known or well-known technique is also conceivable.

  In the case of the pachinko gaming machine 100, when the jackpot probability of winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition (from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30)) Variation). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. It may be shortened, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be extended, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be opened.

Further, in the present embodiment, as other features related to winning and lottery, a large winning opening 125 that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and a normal winning opening 126 that does not start the lottery even if a game ball wins, Are arranged on the game board 110. The special winning opening 125 is provided with a door 128 that is opened and closed by an opening / closing mechanism (not shown) under the control of the game control unit 200 (see FIG. 3). The door 128 is an example of a special electric accessory that opens or enlarges the entrance of the grand prize winning opening 125. Further, the special prize opening operation control unit 238 (see FIG. 4) and the opening / closing mechanism unit (not shown) of the game control unit 200 are an example of an accessory continuous operation device that can operate the door 128 continuously.
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration example is also conceivable. In the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

  Also, on the back side of the game board 110, there are a game control board that performs internal lottery and determination of winning, an effect control board that comprehensively controls effects, an image control board that controls effects by images and sounds, various lamps, Various substrates (not shown) such as a lamp control substrate for controlling the effect by the movable accessory 115 are attached. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power source into a DC power source and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the back surface of the game board 110.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game ball at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the lottery gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display 223 displays the lottery result by variably displaying the normal symbol when the game ball passes through the lottery gate 124. Each of the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223 is composed of an LED display device, and a symbol representing each lottery result is displayed according to its lighting mode.

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. Each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is configured by an LED display device, and the number of holds is displayed by its lighting mode.

  Here, the hold will be described. If there is a prize with another game ball during the fluctuation display operation of special symbols or normal symbols (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the winning game ball will be A predetermined number (for example, four) is held until the variation display operation for the game ball won in is completed. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball.

  As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, the effect control board as the sub board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, it holds up to the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lottery, or the game ball continuously holds the lottery gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) of the undrawn lots when passing.
In addition, the game control unit 200 performs a round in which the door 128 is kept open until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Control to repeat a predetermined number of times. Furthermore, the game control unit 200 controls the opening / closing operation interval when the door 128 of the special winning opening 125 is opened.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the lottery gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction with the game ball.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) as an example of a detection unit that detects winning of a game ball to the first start port 121. 211, a second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 as an example of a detecting means for detecting a winning of a game ball to the second start port 122, and an electric tulip that opens and closes the electric tulip 123 The opening / closing part 213 and a gate detection part (gate switch (SW)) 214 for detecting the passage of the game ball to the lottery gate 124 are connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display unit 220 that displays the number of reserved lots for the undrawn lottery started by the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) started by passing the game ball to the lottery gate 124 within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 for displaying the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning, a normal symbol display 223 for displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery, and a status indicator 224 for displaying the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 , Is connected.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a round start first detection unit (round start first switch (round start first SW)) 225 for detecting the passage of game balls to the round start gates 141 to 143, a round start second A detection unit (round start second switch (round start second SW)) 226 and a round start third detection unit (round start third switch (round start third SW)) 227 are connected. In addition, the detection of the round start switches 225 to 227 does not trigger the special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery. The round start switches 225 to 227 are examples of switches or dedicated switches. Note that the round start switches 225 to 227 are provided for gates (round start gates 141 to 143 (see FIG. 29A)) other than the gate (lottery gate 124) where a normal symbol lottery is performed when a game ball passes. It is arranged.

  The detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215, the normal winning port switch 217, and the round start switches 225 to 227 are used as game control units. 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, the normal symbol display 223, and the status display 224. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like, the contents of the effect according to the operation input may be set. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like (the effect button 161 and the effect key 162), the contents of the effect corresponding to the operation input may be set. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to an operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as an effect button, and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the setting of the effect. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling the image and sound representing the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc., and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed using the read image data.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of payout balls, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401 and the like. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is a storage, and whether or not the plate 153 in which a game ball used when a player plays a game or a prized ball to be held is full is detected. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units for executing various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237. The special symbol lottery unit 231 is an example of a lottery unit and is an example of a special symbol lottery unit.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the lottery gate 124.
The special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 controls the fluctuation of the special symbol according to the lottery result when the special symbol lottery is performed.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the “hit” is divided into a plurality of types according to the gaming state that occurs after the end of the jackpot game. Specifically, the type of jackpot is determined by a combination of the presence / absence of a short-time gaming state in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened and the presence / absence of a probability-changing gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot varies with high probability. In other words, the types of jackpots include jackpots in which both a short-time gaming state and a probability variable gaming state occur after the jackpot game ends, a jackpot in which only a short-time gaming state occurs, a jackpot in which only a probability-changing gaming state occurs, a short-time gaming state, and There can be a jackpot where none of the probable gaming states occur. Hereinafter, when distinguishing these jackpots, they are distinguished by describing as “with time reduction”, “without time reduction”, “with certainty change”, “without certainty change”, etc., based on the gaming state that occurs after the end of the jackpot game. Each of these jackpots is associated with an individual special symbol, and the type of jackpot is determined according to the type of special symbol won in the special symbol lottery.

  In addition, the “bonanza” may be divided into a jackpot that can be expected to pay out a large amount of gaming balls for a long time, and a jackpot that can hardly be expected to pay out gaming balls because the jackpot game time is short. The former is called “long hit” and the latter is called “short hit”. For example, in “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, a predetermined time has elapsed or a predetermined number of game balls have been won) is repeated a predetermined number of times. In the “short win”, a round in which the big prize opening 125 is opened for a predetermined time is repeated a predetermined number of times. Usually, a jackpot where a short-time gaming state occurs (with time saving) after the jackpot game ends is a long win, and a jackpot where no short-time gaming state occurs (no time saving) is a short win. The long hit is an example of a first hit with a large number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory, and the short hit is an example of a second hit with a small number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory.

  Note that a jackpot in which a probability change gaming state occurs (with probability change) after the jackpot game ends is also referred to as a “probability change jackpot”, and a jackpot in which a probability change gaming state does not occur (without probability change) is also referred to as a “normal jackpot”. Also, depending on the game mode, only a probabilistic gaming state occurs after the jackpot game ends, and a short-time gaming state does not occur (with probability variation + no time shortening). Also called etc. In addition, “probability jackpot” may be distinguished as “15 round (15R) probability jackpot”, “2 round (2R) probability jackpot” or the like based on the number of rounds in which the winning prize opening 125 is open. is there.

In addition, the “small win” in the case of not winning a big win is, for example, a small win game in which the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 is opened and closed a predetermined number of times, and the game state at the time of winning the small win even after the completion Is to continue. That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction is made, the normal gaming state is continued even after the end of the small hitting game, The gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “out of game”, neither “big hit” nor “small win” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set.

The variation pattern selection unit 235 displays the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Select. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or lost”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result. The winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is high when there is a winning support (so-called electric chew support) to the second starting port 122 by opening the electric tulip 123 which is performed mainly in the short-time gaming state.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time and a specified number of times, and a state in which the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122 is increased is generated. During the above winning support (electrical chew support), the specified number of times and the specified time increase. In addition, when it is determined as “displacement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 does not occur.

The special winning opening operation controller 238 controls the opening operation of the door 128 of the special winning opening 125. That is, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the continuous opening and closing of the door 128 at the special winning opening 125 reflecting the lottery result of the special symbol to the round start gates 141 to 143 by the round start switches 225 to 227. Starts after game ball passing is detected. In other words, the grand prize opening operation control unit 238 continuously opens and closes the door 128 at the big prize opening 125 until the round start switches 225 to 227 detect the passing of the game ball to the round start gates 141 to 143. Do not start control.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the management of the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Then, under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 5, a random number update process, a switch process, a symbol process, an electric accessory process, a prize ball process, and an output process are sequentially executed (steps 501 to 506).

  In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.

As the switch process (step 502), a start port switch process, a gate switch process, and a round start switch process are performed.
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. Processing for symbol lottery is executed.
In the gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3 and executes a process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on.
In the round start switch process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the round start switches 225 to 227 in FIG. When is turned ON, the round start flag processing is executed. The winning game flag here will be described later. In addition, it can be grasped that the condition device has been activated when the winning game flag is turned ON.
Details of these switch processes will be described later.

As the symbol processing (step 503), special symbol processing and normal symbol processing are performed.
In the special symbol processing, the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the variation pattern selection unit 235, and the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 perform special symbol variation and processing associated with this symbol variation. Done.
In the normal symbol processing, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs normal symbol variation and processing associated with this symbol variation.
The detailed contents of these symbol processes will be described later.

As the electric accessory process (step 504), a big prize opening process and an electric tulip process are performed.
In the special prize opening process, the special prize opening operation controller 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the door 128 at the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition.
The detailed contents of these electric accessory processing will be described later.

In the prize ball processing (step 505), the prize ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 controls the management of the number of winning prizes and the payout of prize balls according to the winning prize.
In the output process (step 506), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 505, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process in the switch process shown in step 502 of FIG.
In the start port switch process, a process for winning at the first start port 121 and a process for winning at the second start port 122 are sequentially performed. Referring to FIG. 6, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a game ball is won at the first starting port 121 and the first starting port switch 211 is turned on (step). 601). If the first start port switch 211 is turned ON, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U1 of the unlotted hold in the winning of the first start port 121 is less than the upper limit value (step). 602). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holdings U1 has reached the upper limit (No in step 602), the winnings for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, so the process for winning at the first start port 121 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations U1 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in Step 602), the special symbol lottery unit 231 then adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations U1 (Step 603). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and stored in the RAM 203 (step 604). Here, since the first starting port 121 is won, a random number value for special symbol lottery is acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value. Random value here is a jackpot random value that determines jackpot, jackpot or lose, jackpot type (whether there is a short-time gaming state after the jackpot game, whether there is a promiscuous gaming state, per jackpot, short hit) A design random number value to be determined (a jackpot symbol random number value), a variation pattern random number for specifying a variation pattern in symbol variation, a reach random number value for determining whether or not to perform a reachable effect, and the like are included.

Next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a pre-determination process for performing a notice effect of the lottery result on a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is suspended (that is, an undrawn lottery). Perform (step 605). In this pre-determination process, the lottery result is determined not at the start of symbol variation but at the start opening prize (that is, at step 605). In addition, in the gaming machine that does not perform the notice effect of the lottery result, this prior determination process may be omitted.
Thereafter, the special symbol lottery unit 231 sets a command for increasing the number of held U1 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held U1 in Step 603 in the RAM 203 (Step 606), and wins a prize at the first start port 121. The process for is terminated. When the preliminary determination process in step 605 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 605 is included in the pending number U1 increase command.

  Next, a process for winning in the second start port 122 is performed. Referring to FIG. 6, next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 122 and the second start port switch 212 is turned on (step 607). If the second start port switch 212 is turned on, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U2 of unreserved hold numbers in the winning of the second start port 122 is less than the upper limit (step). 608). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U2 has reached the upper limit (No in step 608), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, and the process for winning at the second start port 122 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number U2 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in Step 608), the special symbol lottery unit 231 next adds 1 to the value of the reserved number U2 (Step 609). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is acquired and stored in the RAM 203 (step 610). Here, since the winning of the second starting port 122 is won, a random number value for special symbol lottery (a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, etc.) is acquired as in step 604 above. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value.

Next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a pre-determination process for performing a notice effect of the lottery result on a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is suspended (that is, an undrawn lottery). Perform (step 611). The contents of this preliminary determination process are the same as in step 605 above. This pre-determination process may also be omitted in gaming machines that do not perform the notice effect of the lottery result.
Thereafter, the special symbol lottery unit 231 sets a command for increasing the number of held U2 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held U2 in step 609 in the RAM 203 (step 612), and wins a prize at the second starting port 122. The process for is terminated. When the preliminary determination process in step 611 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 611 is included in the pending number U2 increase command.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7A is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process in the switch process shown in step 502 of FIG.
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball passes through the lottery gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on (Yes in step 701), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next determines whether or not the number G of unreserved reserves is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example illustrated in FIG. 7A, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and stored in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the lottery gate 124 is won, a random value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

[Round start switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7-2 is a flowchart showing the contents of the round start switch process in the switch process shown in step 502 of FIG.
In this round start switch process, the big prize opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned on by passing the game balls through the round start gates 141 to 143. Is determined (step 711). If any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned ON (Yes in Step 711), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next sets a flag set in the RAM 203 (hereinafter, flag setting). Then, it is determined whether or not the long hit game flag is ON (step 712).
The long hit game flag here is a flag that is set to identify a game state corresponding to the win when the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win. In addition, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win or a small win, a win game flag is set to identify the game state according to these wins, and more specifically, the type of the win In response to this, one of the long hit game flag, the short hit game flag, and the small hit game flag is set. In the present embodiment, these are collectively called a winning game flag.

When the long winning game flag is ON (Yes in Step 712), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the round start flag is OFF (Step 713).
The round start flag here is a flag that is set to determine whether or not it is necessary to control the timing for starting a round. That is, the round start flag is used to set that any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned on as a condition for operating the accessory continuous operation device (community device) when the condition device is operated. belongs to. More specifically, the round start flag is for controlling the timing for executing continuous opening and closing of the door 128 at the special winning opening 125.
The condition device referred to here is configured by the CPU 201 of the game control unit 200, and more specifically, is configured by the special winning opening operation control unit 238. In the present embodiment, the condition device operates when a specific symbol combination is displayed.
In addition, a part of the accessory continuous operation device referred to here is configured by the CPU 201 of the game control unit 200, and more specifically, configured by the big prize opening operation control unit 238. The accessory continuous activation device operates when any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned on after the condition device is activated.

When the round start flag is OFF (Yes in Step 713), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines which of the round start switches 225 to 227 is ON, and the maximum number of rounds according to the determination result. Set the initial value of Rx. More specifically, first, it is determined whether or not the round start first switch 225 is ON (step 714). When the round start first switch 225 is ON (Yes in step 714), a big prize is awarded. The mouth movement control unit 238 sets 16 or 4 as the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx (step 715). The initial value of the round number maximum value Rx is determined by lottery or the like.
If the round start first switch 225 is not ON (No in Step 714), it is next determined whether or not the round start second switch 226 is ON (Step 716). When the round start second switch 226 is turned on (Yes in Step 716), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets 10 as the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx (Step 717).
If the round start second switch 226 is not ON, the round start third switch 227 is ON. Therefore, when the round start second switch 226 is not ON (No in Step 716), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets 16 as the initial value of the maximum number of rounds Rx in order to execute the rank-up bonus (RUB). 32 or 48 is determined by lottery and set (step 718). In addition, when the round start 2nd switch 226 is not ON (it is No at step 716), the example of control which judges whether the round start 3rd switch 227 is ON can also be considered.

As described above, the big prize opening operation control unit 238 sets any one of 16, 8 or 4 as the initial value of the maximum number of rounds Rx, and then turns the round start flag ON (step 719).
In addition, when the round start switches 225 to 227 are not turned on (No in Step 711), when the long hit gaming flag is not turned on (No in Step 712), or when the round start flag is not turned off (Step 713). No) ends the round start switch processing.

In this way, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the round start flag needs to be turned on when the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned on (step 711) ( If it is determined that it is necessary (steps 712, 713), after setting the initial value of the maximum number of rounds Rx (steps 715, 717, 718), the round start flag is turned on (step 719).
Further, in the round start switch process, even if the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned ON, the round start flag is not turned ON from OFF unless the long hit game flag is turned ON. Also, in the round start switch process, even if the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned on, the calculation of the number of holdings and the acquisition of random numbers are not performed. ) Is different.
In addition, the round start switches 225 to 227 are dedicated switches for switching the round start flag from OFF to ON.
When the round start flag is turned ON, a control example in which a predetermined LED on the display unit 130 is turned on to indicate that the game ball has passed through the round start gates 141 to 143 is also conceivable.

  In the present embodiment, as a condition for switching the round start flag from OFF to ON (round start flag switching condition), the long hit gaming flag is set to ON, but other control examples are also conceivable. . For example, the long start game flag or the short hit game flag is ON as a round start flag switching condition, and the round start flag is not switched from OFF to ON even if the small hit game flag is ON. It is. When such a control example is employed, if the winning game flag is a long winning game flag, the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx corresponding to the round start switches 225 to 227 is set, while the winning game flag is If it is a short hit game flag, the number of rounds is set in advance, and therefore, it is conceivable to perform control not to set an initial value.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol processing of the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting (step 801). When the winning game flag is ON (Yes in step 801), the winning combination continuous operation device is operated to open / close the special winning opening 125, and a predetermined number of rounds based on the big winning are continuously executed.

If the winning game flag is ON (Yes in step 801), the pachinko gaming machine 100 is already in a gaming state due to some kind of hitting (a state where a special symbol is selected and stopped), so that special symbol variation is started. After performing the opening process (step 817) according to another routine, the special symbol process is terminated. The details of the opening process will be described later.
On the other hand, if the winning game flag is OFF (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the special symbol variation (Step 802). . When the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 performs processing related to the number of holdings U1 and U2 (see FIG. 6) for the undrawn special symbol (steps 803 to 806). . In the present embodiment, the number of holds U1 related to winning of the first start port 121 and the number of holds U2 related to winning of the second start port 122 are distinguished, so this processing is also performed for each corresponding start port. .

  Specifically, the special symbol variation control unit 233 first determines whether or not the number of holds U2 related to winning in the second start port 122 is 1 or more (step 803). When the number of reservations U2 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U2 (Step 804). On the other hand, if the hold number U2 = 0 (No in step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether the hold number U1 related to winning in the first start port 121 is 1 or more (step 805). . When the number of reservations U1 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 805), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U1 (Step 806). On the other hand, if the number of holdings U1 = 0 (No in step 805), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, so the special symbol change is not started, and the waiting for a different routine is set. The process is executed and the process is terminated (step 816).

  After subtracting the holding number U1 or the holding number U2 in step 804 or step 806, the special symbol variation control unit 233 turns off the customer waiting flag set in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 807). The customer waiting flag is a flag for identifying that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state, and is set in the customer waiting setting process.

  Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 executes jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing by separate routines (steps 808 and 809). As will be described in detail later, setting information (design, game state, variation pattern, etc.) included in the variation start command sent to the effect control unit 300 is determined by the jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 is displayed by the first special symbol display unit 221 and the second special symbol display unit 222 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents determined in the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process. The special symbol change is started (step 810). Then, a change start command including setting information (symbol, gaming state, change pattern, etc.) indicating the setting contents is generated and set in the RAM 203 (step 811). The variation start command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  If it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), or after the change start command is set in step 811, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed. (Step 812). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the variation of the special symbol at step 810 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process at step 809. If the variation time has not elapsed (No in step 812), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has elapsed (Yes in step 812), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first stops the variation of the special symbols in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 (step 813), a change stop command is set in the RAM 203 (step 814). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 815). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The change stop command set in step 814 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  Here, in this embodiment, when the winning game flag is ON (Yes in Step 801), the customer waiting setting process is not performed (Step 816). Therefore, the customer waiting command is not set in the RAM 203 (see step 1202 in FIG. 12), and the customer waiting screen is not displayed on the image display unit 114.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 808 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot or small hit is made. (Steps 902 and 905). The value of the jackpot random number acquired at step 604 or step 610 in FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot or the value set as the winning value of the jackpot. It is determined by judging whether or not (see FIG. 17A).

If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a big hit (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random number (step 903). Depending on the result of this determination, the type of jackpot (any of probability variation + time reduction, probability variation + no time shortage, no probability variation + time shortage, no probability variation + no time shortness) is determined. Which jackpot is determined is determined by whether the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches one of the preset values for each jackpot type (FIG. 17B). )reference).
After the above determination, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 sets the symbol representing the type of jackpot determined by the determination of the jackpot symbol random number (the jackpot symbol) as setting information in the RAM 203 (step 904).

  When the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a small hit (No in step 902, Yes in step 905), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next displays a symbol indicating a small hit (hereinafter referred to as a small hit symbol). ) As setting information in the RAM 203 (step 906).

  If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is neither big win nor small win (No in step 902 and step 905), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 indicates that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol). Is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 907).

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 809 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1001). This determination is the same as steps 901 and 902 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination result of step 902 may be used). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot has not been won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number for determining whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. (Step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value (see FIG. 17C).
As a result of determination using random numbers, when a reach effect is performed (Yes in step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads a variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of variation patterns (variation times 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of variation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 determines the variation pattern random number using the variation pattern random number acquired in Step 604 or Step 610 of FIG. 6 and the variation pattern table set in Steps 1002, 1005, and 1006 ( Step 1007). That is, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the fluctuation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a fluctuation pattern corresponding to the random value of the fluctuation pattern random number. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern tables are different, the determined variation pattern may be different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1007 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1008). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1008 is included in the variation start command set in step 811 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11A is a flowchart showing the content of the stop process (step 815 in FIG. 8).
In this stop process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the time reduction flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1101). The short time flag is a flag for identifying that the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is the short time gaming state. When the time-short flag is ON (Yes in Step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of fluctuations) J in the time-short game state (Step 1102), and the number of lotteries J becomes 0. It is checked whether or not (step 1103). If the number of lotteries J = 0 (Yes in Step 1103), the time reduction flag is turned OFF (Step 1104). It should be noted that the operation for turning on the hourly flag and the setting of the initial value of the number of lotteries J are the game state setting process (FIG. 14-1, FIG. 14-2 and FIG. 14-3) described later. 15).

  If the time reduction flag is OFF (No in step 1101), or after the time reduction flag is turned OFF in step 1104, or if the value of the number of times of lottery J is not 0 (No in step 1103), then the game progress control unit 236 Checks whether or not the probability variation flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1105). The probability variation flag is a flag for identifying that the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability variation game. When both the probability change flag and the previous time reduction flag are ON, generally, the game state has a probability change and time reduction as performed after a long hit, and the probability change flag is ON and the time reduction flag is OFF. In some cases, the game is generally in a gaming state where the probability change is made after a short win but the time is not short.

  When the probability change flag is ON (Yes in Step 1105), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of variations) X in the probability variation game state (Step 1106), and the number of lotteries X is set to 0. It is checked whether or not (step 1107). If the number of times of lottery X = 0 (Yes in Step 1107), the probability variation flag is turned OFF (Step 1108). The operation for turning on the probability change flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number X are the game state setting process (FIG. 14-1, FIG. 14-2 and FIG. 14-3) described later. 15).

  If the probability change flag is OFF (No in step 1105), or after the probability change flag is turned OFF in step 1108, or if the value of the lottery count X is not 0 (No in step 1107), then the game progress control unit 236 Determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1109). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1109), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not the type of big hit is a long win (Step 1110).

  These determinations can be made based on the type of symbol set in the setting information in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, when the normal symbol A or the probability variation symbol A is set among symbols shown in the diagram of FIG. 17B described later, it is determined that the jackpot type is long hit. Further, when the normal symbol B, the probability variation symbol B or the latent probability symbol is set, it is determined that the type of jackpot is short hit. Therefore, if the normal symbol A or the probable variation symbol A is set in the setting information, “Yes” in both steps 1109 and 1110. If the normal symbol B, the probability variation symbol B, or the latent probability symbol is set, Yes in step 1109 and No in step 1110. If the off symbol or the small hit symbol is set, No in step 1109. Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 903, and 905 may be used.

  When the jackpot type is a long hit (Yes in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the long hit game flag (Step 1111). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a jackpot gaming state (long winning gaming state) in which the jackpot type is long winning. Here, the presence / absence of probability fluctuation is not distinguished in the per unit length. The presence / absence of the probability change is specified by turning on the corresponding flag in the gaming state setting process (FIG. 15) in the special prize opening process (FIGS. 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3) described later. .

  When the big hit type is not long hit (No in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the short hit game flag (Step 1112). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a big hit gaming state (short winning gaming state) in which the big hit type is short hit.

  After the winning game flag is turned ON in step 1111 or step 1112, the game progress control unit 236 initializes the values of the lottery times J and X (step 1113). That is, since the special symbol lottery was a big win (step 1109), the lottery times J and X are reset to 0 and newly counted again. Further, the game progress control unit 236 turns off the time reduction flag when the time reduction flag is ON in step 1101 and the lottery count J is not 0 in step 1103 (step 1114). Similarly, if the probability variation flag is ON in step 1105 and the lottery count X is not 0 in step 1107, the probability variation flag is turned OFF (step 1114). After that, the game progress control unit 236 indicates that the condition device has been operated in the game control unit 200 and sets a condition device command (condition device operation start command) for performing an effect after the condition device is activated in the RAM 203. (Step 1115).

On the other hand, when the result of the special symbol lottery this time is not a big hit (No in Step 1109), the game progress control unit 236 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery this time is a big hit (Step). 1116). If it is not a small hit (No in step 1116), the stop process is terminated.
On the other hand, when it is a small hit (Yes in step 1116), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the small hit game flag (step 1117). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the small hit gaming state.

FIG. 11-2 is a flowchart showing the contents of the opening process (step 817 in FIG. 8).
In this opening process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether the combination device operation start flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1131). As will be described later, this association device operation start flag is set to OFF in step 1134 of FIG. 11-2 and set to ON in step 1455 of FIG. 14-3. More specifically, the combination device operation start flag indicates that the opening command (see step 1133 in FIG. 11-2) is sent to the effect control unit 300 before the combination device operation start command (see step 1454 in FIG. 14-3). This is to prevent transmission.

If the combination device operation start flag is ON (Yes in Step 1131), the game progress control unit 236 starts the opening operation (Step 1132). Here, the contents of the opening operation differ depending on which of steps 1111, 1112, and 1117 in FIG. 11A the winning game flag is turned on. In other words, depending on the state of the winning game flag, one of the opening operations set in each gaming state of the long winning game, the short winning game, and the small winning game is performed.
Thereafter, the game progress control unit 236 sets an opening command for performing an effect in the opening operation according to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1133), and turns off the combination device operation start flag. (Step 1134), the opening process is terminated. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG. The opening command transmitted to the effect control unit 300 includes information indicating the initial value (steps 715, 716, 718) of the set round number maximum value Rx when the long hit game flag is ON.
If the combination device operation start flag is not ON (No in step 1131), the opening process is terminated without performing the opening command set.

[Customer waiting setting process by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting setting process (step 816 in FIG. 8).
In this customer waiting setting process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the customer waiting flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1201). Here, the customer waiting flag is a flag that is set to identify that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state.

  When the customer waiting flag is ON, since the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, the processing is ended as it is (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the customer waiting flag is OFF, the game progress control unit 236 generates a customer waiting command and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1202), and turns on the customer waiting flag (step 1203). The customer waiting command set in step 1202 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the normal symbol processing in the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this normal symbol process, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1301). Here, the auxiliary game flag is a flag that is set in order to identify a game state (auxiliary game state) corresponding to a normal symbol lottery when winning. In the auxiliary gaming state, the electric tulip 123 is opened according to the electric tulip process (FIG. 16) described later, and it is easy to win (assistant) the second starting port 122.

  When the auxiliary game flag is ON, the normal symbol is already selected and stopped, so the normal symbol processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1301). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is OFF (No in Step 1301), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is changing the normal symbol (Step 1302). When the normal symbol is not changing (No in Step 1302), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the number G of the normal symbols that have not been drawn (see FIG. 7-1) is 1 or more (Step 1303). If the holding number G = 0 (No in step 1303), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in step 1303), the normal symbol control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (step 1304), and the random number in the current normal symbol lottery is calculated. A determination is made to determine whether or not the normal symbol lottery has been won (step 1305). Whether or not the game is won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 of FIG. 7-1 matches the value set as the winning value.

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the normal symbol in accordance with the result of the normal symbol lottery (step 1306). That is, when a normal symbol lottery is won, a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information.

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the variation time of the normal symbol (step 1307). This variation time is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11A, step 1506 in FIG. That is, when the time reduction flag is ON in the setting in step 1307, it is set to a short time (for example, 1.5 seconds), and when the time reduction flag is OFF, it is set to a long time (for example, 4.0 seconds). Is set. After this setting, the normal symbol control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents of Step 1307 (Step 1308).

  After starting normal symbol variation in step 1308 or when it is determined in step 1302 that normal symbol variation is in progress (Yes in step 1302), the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the variation time has elapsed. (Step 1309). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of normal symbol fluctuation in step 1308 has reached the fluctuation time set in step 1307. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (No in step 1309), the normal symbol variation is continued, and the normal symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (Yes in step 1309), the normal symbol control unit 237 stops the variation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 223 (step 1310). Then, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won based on the stopped normal symbol (step 1311). If it is elected (Yes in Step 1311), the auxiliary game flag is turned ON (Step 1312). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1311), the normal symbol process is terminated without turning on the auxiliary game flag.

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
14-1, FIG. 14-2, and FIG. 14-3 are flowcharts showing the contents of the big prize opening process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203, as shown in FIG. (Step 1401). If the winning game flag is OFF, there is no prize winning in the big prize opening 125, so the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, when the winning game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1401), the winning of the jackpot is confirmed. Therefore, next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 performs a round start flag determination process (step 1402). This round start flag determination process is for determining whether or not to continue the big prize opening process.

Here, the contents of the round start flag determination process (see step 1402 in FIG. 14-1) will be described with reference to FIG.
When the combination device activation start flag is not ON (No in Step 1451), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 checks whether or not the long winning game flag is ON (Step 1452), and the long winning game If the flag is ON (Yes in step 1452), it is next checked whether or not the round start flag is ON (step 1453).
If the combination device operation start flag is ON (Yes in step 1451), since the opening process (see FIG. 11-2) has not been performed yet, the round start flag determination process ends. The next processing (see step 1403 in FIG. 14-1) is continued.

  When the round start flag is ON (Yes in step 1453), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 starts the combination device operation for starting the operation of the accessory continuous operation device (community device). A command is generated and set in the RAM 203 (step 1454). Then, the combination device operation start flag indicating that the combination device operation start command has been transmitted to the effect control unit 300 is set to ON (step 1455), the round start flag determination processing is terminated, and the next processing (FIG. 14-1) is performed. (See step 1403).

  If the long winning game flag is not ON (No in step 1452), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets the combination device operation start command without checking whether the round start flag is ON. (Step 1454). In other words, in step 1452, it is determined whether or not it is necessary to refer to ON / OFF of the round start flag.

In this way, when a game flag other than the long win game flag (short win game flag or small hit game flag) is ON (No in step 1452), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 has the round start flag ON. Without checking whether or not, an association device operation start command is set (step 1454).
More specifically, when the round starts when the game ball passes through the round start gates 141 to 143, the round starts only in the case of a long hit, and in the case of a short hit, the round start gates 141 to 143. Start without waiting for the game ball to pass. For this reason, it is possible to make it convenient for the player.

If the round start flag is not ON (No in step 1453), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 ends the big prize opening process. The “symbol surrounded by B” indicating the next procedure content in the case of NO at step 1453 indicates that “symbol surrounded by B” illustrated in FIG.
Thus, according to the determination result performed in steps 1451 to 1453, the generation of the combination device operation start command is varied. The combination device operation start command set in step 1454 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  As described above, in the round start flag determination process, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a long hit, the round is not started until any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 (see FIG. 3) is turned ON. The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls. In other words, in the round start flag determination processing, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a long win, the big winning opening operation is performed so that the round is started after the round start switches 225 to 227 (see FIG. 3) are turned ON. Control unit 238 controls. For this reason, when the player wants to continue the game without taking a break, the player can turn on the round start switches 225 to 227 (see FIG. 3) by continuing to fire the game balls without stopping the game balls. You can start a round.

  Returning to FIG. 14A, the explanation of the special winning opening process will be continued. The big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the middle of the opening operation in the operation control at the time of the big hit started in the stop process (see FIG. 11-1) (step 1403).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in step 1403), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1404). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1404). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in Step 1404), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 next sets the operation of the door 128 at the special prize opening 125 (Step 1405), and sets the winning number C to the initial value. (C = 0) (step 1406), the value of the number of operation rounds R of the big prize opening 125 is incremented by 1 from the current value (step 1407), and the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 starts to operate (opens). (Step 1408).

In the operation setting of Step 1405, the operation pattern of the door 128 of the special winning opening 125 and the number of rounds (operation round number, round number maximum value Rx) to be operated by the operation pattern are set. As the case where the door 128 of the big winning opening 125 is operated, there are a case where the special symbol lottery is a big hit per long or short, and a case where it is a small hit. The operation pattern and the number of rounds are variously set according to the hit type.
In the case of a long hit, in this embodiment, one of 16 rounds (16R), 10 rounds (10R), and 4 rounds (4R) is activated (see FIG. 7-2). Open once. In addition, according to the length of this embodiment, a rank-up bonus (RUB) of 16 times, 32 times, or 48 times may be activated (see FIG. 7-2).
Here, in the case of a rank-up bonus, control is performed so as to set the prescribed number (step 1410 described later) small. As a result, the winning number C reaches the specified number before the opening time of the door 128 of the big winning opening 125 elapses, so the door 128 closes earlier, and the number of prize balls per one opening of the door 128 is reduced. Although the number is reduced, the number of prize balls by the rank-up bonus can be more assured as expected. In addition, when the rank-up bonus is activated, it is conceivable to perform an effect of whether or not the jackpot continues further.

  In the case of a short hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and one round is performed once for 0.1 seconds. In the case of a small hit, for example, one round (1R) is operated, and 0.1 second is released 15 times in this round. Here, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared in the above examples, both 0.1 seconds of opening is performed 15 times. That is, the operation of the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 that can be seen by the player is the same in the case of the short win and the case of the small win, and the short win only from the operation of the door 128 of the big win 125 on the game board 110. And small hits cannot be distinguished.

  As another example of short hits, 2 rounds (2R) are operated, 0.9 round is released twice in 1 round, 1 round (1R) is operated in small hits, and 0 in this 1 round. .Open 9 seconds twice. In this case as well, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared, both 0.9 seconds are opened twice, and the operation of the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 visible to the player is short. The same applies to the case of winning and the case of winning.

  Note that it is stipulated by law that the cumulative opening time of the special winning opening 125 must be set within 1.8 seconds when winning small. On the other hand, in the case of a big hit (long hit or short win), the big winning opening 125 must be continuously opened a plurality of times. Therefore, when trying to make it difficult to visually distinguish the operation with a small hit and the operation with a short hit as described above, within the range that satisfies the cumulative open time within 1.8 seconds in one operation, An operation mode in which the big prize opening 125 is opened two or more times is set, and in the short win, the same number of rounds as the number of small hits is set.

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the opening time in the operation pattern set in Step 1404 has elapsed (Step 1409). If the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1409), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines that the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is a predetermined number (for example, Nine) or not is determined (step 1410). If the opening time has not elapsed and the number C of winning prizes is less than the prescribed number, the operation state (open state) of the door 128 of the big winning opening 125 is continued, and thus the big winning opening process is terminated ( No in step 1410). On the other hand, if the opening time has passed (Yes in Step 1409) or the winning number C has reached the specified number (Yes in Step 1410), the big winning opening operation control unit 238 opens the door 128 of the big winning opening 125. The operation ends (closes) (step 1411).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 14B, the special prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the round number R of the operation of the door 128 of the special prize opening 125 has reached the maximum round number Rx. Step 1412). If the maximum number of rounds Rx has not been reached, the remaining operations are performed, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1412).

If the round number R of the operation of the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 reaches the round number maximum value Rx (Yes in step 1412), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then starts the ending operation (step 1413). ). Here, the content of the ending operation corresponds to the state of the winning game flag among the ending operations set in each gaming state of long hit game, short hit game, and small hit game.
Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets an ending command for performing the effect in the ending operation corresponding to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1414). This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  Next, the special winning opening operation controller 238 resets the round number R of the operation of the special winning opening 125 to 0 (step 1415), and then performs an ending operation in which the elapsed time from the start of the ending operation is set in advance. It is determined whether or not the time to be played (ending time) has passed (step 1418). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1418). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in Step 1418), the special winning opening operation controller 238 next performs the game state setting process (Step 1419), and then turns off the winning game flag (Step 1420). Further, the round start flag is set to OFF (step 1421), and the big prize opening process is ended. The contents of the game state setting process will be described later.

  When it is determined in step 1403 shown in FIG. 14A that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not opening (No in step 1403), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not it is ending ( Step 1416). If the ending is in progress (Yes in Step 1416), the operations after Step 1418 are executed.

  On the other hand, if the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not ending (No in step 1416), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the door 128 of the special prize opening 125 is operating (opening) ( Step 1417). If it is not in operation (No in Step 1417), the operation after Step 1406 is executed. If it is in operation (Yes in Step 1417), the operation after Step 1409 is executed.

[Game state setting process]
FIG. 15 shows the contents of the game state setting process (step 1418) executed when the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1418).
As shown in FIG. 15, first, the winning prize opening operation control unit 238 determines the type of winning because the winning game flag is ON in step 1401 of FIG. 14-1 (steps 1501, 1502,. 1503, 1506). These determinations can be made based on, for example, the type of symbol set as setting information in the RAM 203 in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 903, and 905 may be used.

If the win type is a small win (Yes in step 1501), the gaming state (internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100) is not changed, so the gaming state setting process is terminated.
If the winning type is a jackpot with no positive change and a short time (No at Step 1501, Yes at Steps 1502 and 1503), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 turns on the short time flag (Step 1504). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the short-time gaming state. Further, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets an initial value of the lottery number J (step 1505), and ends the gaming state setting process. The initial value of the lottery number J is 100 in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery in the short-time gaming state is performed 100 times, the short-time gaming state ends.

  On the other hand, when the winning type is a big hit with no probability change + no time reduction (No in step 1501, Yes in 1502, No in step 1503), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 does not set both the time reduction flag and the probability change flag to ON. The process ends. Therefore, the setting of the game state of the RAM 203 for the game after the jackpot does not result in a short-time game state or a probabilistic game state.

  When the winning type is a big hit with certain change + short time (No at Steps 1501 and 1502, Yes at Step 1506), the winning prize opening operation control unit 238 turns on the hourly flag (Step 1507), and the number of lottery times J Is set (step 1508). In this case, the initial value of the number of times of lottery J is 10,000 in the illustrated example. Further, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets the probability variation flag to ON (step 1509) and sets the initial value of the lottery number X (step 1510). The initial value of the number of times of lottery X is 10,000 in the illustrated example. Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a time-varying probability changing gaming state. If the lottery is performed 10,000 times in the time-varying probability variation game state, the time-variable probability variation game state ends.

  On the other hand, when the winning type is a big hit with probability variation + no time reduction (No in steps 1501, 1502, and step 1506), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 turns on only the probability variation flag (step 1509), and the number of lotteries An initial value of X (10000 times) is set (step 1510). As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to a probabilistic gaming state in which time is not set. If the lottery in the timeless probability change game state is performed 10,000 times, the timeless probability change game state ends.

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1601). When the auxiliary game flag is OFF, the electric tulip 123 is not released, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1601). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1601), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Step 1602).

  When the electric tulip 123 is not in operation (No in step 1602), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 (step 1603), and operates the electric tulip 123 with the set operation pattern ( Step 1604). Here, the operation pattern is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11-1, steps 1503 and 1506 in FIG. For example, when the time reduction flag is OFF at the time of setting in step 1603, an operation pattern that opens once with a release time of 0.15 seconds is set, and when the time reduction flag is ON, 1.80 seconds are set. An operation pattern that opens three times in the opening time is set. As described above, normally, when the hourly flag is ON (when the hourly gaming state is set), the electric tulip 123 is opened a plurality of times for a long time, and the winning support that makes it easy to win the second starting port 122 (electric chewing support) ) Is performed.

  When it is determined in step 1602 that the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Yes in step 1602), or after the electric tulip 123 is operated in step 1604, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 opens in the set operation pattern. It is determined whether time has passed (step 1605). If the opening time has not elapsed, the operation state (open state) of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1605). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1605), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the auxiliary game flag to OFF and ends the electric tulip process (step 1606).

  Here, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment has a detection means for detecting a winning in which a game ball enters the start openings 121 and 122 provided in the gaming area 111, and a winning detected by the detecting means. Lottery means for performing lottery correspondingly. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is provided in the game area 111, and a special electric accessory that opens or expands the entrance of the grand prize opening 125 into which a game ball enters and a special electric accessory are continuously provided. An accessory continuous operation device that can be operated in a predetermined manner, a condition device that operates in a predetermined case, and this operation is a condition necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device, and is provided in the game area 111; Round start switches 225, 226, and 227 are provided for starting the operation of the accessory continuous operation device when the condition device is operated.

[Random number judgment method]
Here, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 13), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of random numbers used in the present embodiment.
17A shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number, FIG. 17B shows a configuration example of a jackpot symbol random number, FIG. 17C shows a configuration example of a reach random number, and FIG. Configuration examples are shown respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 17 (a), the jackpot random number is set to two types, that is, a jackpot at normal time when the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not change, a jackpot at the time of probability change, and a jackpot. The range of values of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 300 from 0 to 299. In the case of a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) during normal times, only one winning value is set and the winning probability is 1/300. In the case of special symbol lottery at the time of probability change, ten winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). In other words, in the example shown in the figure, if the special symbol lottery is performed by winning at the start ports 121 and 122 at the time of the probability change, the winning probability is 10 times as compared with the case where the special symbol lottery is performed at the normal time. In addition, three winning values are set regardless of whether or not the probability changes, and the winning probability is 3/300 (= 1/100).

  Referring to FIG. 17B, there are five types of jackpot symbols: normal symbol A, normal symbol B, probability variation symbol A, probability variation symbol B, and latent probability symbol. Here, the normal symbol A and the normal symbol B are symbols representing a big hit without any probability change. Among them, the normal symbol A has a long hit (with a short time), and the normal symbol B has a short hit (without a short time). Represent. The probability variation symbol A and the probability variation symbol B are symbols representing a jackpot with certain probability variation. Of these symbols, the probability variation symbol A represents a long winning (with time reduction), and the probability variation symbol B represents a short winning (without time shortening). The latent pattern is a pattern that represents a jackpot with certainty + short time. Therefore, the probability variation symbol B and the latent probability symbol have the same gaming state after the jackpot game, but the latent probability symbol is provided separately from the probability variation symbol B in order to make it a condition for performing the probability variation latent effect. The range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249. In addition, in the jackpot symbol random number, a winning value is set for each of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 that trigger the special symbol lottery.

In the normal symbol A, 35 values are assigned as winning values for both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, when winning the jackpot, the probability of winning in the normal symbol A (no change in probability + short time) is 35/250 (= 7/50).
In the normal symbol B, 15 values are assigned as winning values for both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, when winning a jackpot, the probability of winning in the normal symbol B (no probability change + no time reduction) is 15/250 (= 3/50).

In the probability variation symbol A, 25 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probability variation symbol A (with certain variation + short time) is 25/250 (= 1 / 10).
On the other hand, 175 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probability variation symbol A (with certain variation + short time) is 175/250 (= 7 / 10).

In the probability variation symbol B, 75 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probable variation symbol B (with certain variation + no short time) when winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121 is 75/250 (= 3 / 10).
On the other hand, 25 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning with the probability variation symbol B (with certain variation + no short time) when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122 is 25/250 (= 1 / 10).

In the latent symbol, 100 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the first start port 121. Therefore, the probability of winning in the latent symbol (with certainty + no time) is 100/250 (= 2 /) when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121. 5).
On the other hand, the winning value in the latent symbol is not assigned to the second starting port 122, and when winning in the second starting port 122, it is not won in the latent symbol.

As described above, in the example shown in FIG. 17B, the jackpot when winning the first start port 121 is highly likely to be a jackpot (probability variation symbol B, latent probability symbol) with probability variation + no time reduction, There is a high probability that the jackpot when winning at the second start port 122 will be a jackpot with probability variation + short time (probability variation symbol A). That is, the lottery rate when winning the first start port 121 is disadvantageous for the player compared to the lottery rate when winning the second start port 122.
In this way, by making the winning probabilities of the jackpot types different when winning at the first start port 121 and when winning at the second start port 122, various game characteristics can be provided. Further, for example, as in the case of a second embodiment described later (see FIG. 20), the arrangement of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 on the game board 110 is devised, and a specific state (mode) is set. Then, it is possible to encourage the player to participate in more aggressive games by making it easier to aim at either the first start port 121 or the second start port 122.

  Referring to FIG. 17 (c), the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the reach effect is not performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/250 (= 11/125).

  Referring to FIG. 17D, the range of the random number value is 10 from 0 to 9, and one value is assigned as the winning value when the time-short flag is OFF, and as the winning value when the time-short flag is ON. Nine values are assigned. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the lottery gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed when the short-time gaming state has not occurred, the player wins with a probability of 1/10. On the other hand, if the game ball passes through the lottery gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed while the short-time gaming state is occurring, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10.

  These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7-1), and are obtained by the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 13). used. Note that this random value counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300 when a command is received from the game control unit 200.
The operation of the effect control unit 300 includes a main process shown in FIG. 18A and an interrupt process shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 18A, the production control unit 300 first performs initial setting at the time of activation (step 1801), sets the cycle of the CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) (step 1802), and then sets the cycle. Accordingly, the interrupt process is accepted while updating the random number used in the production control (step 1803).

  The interrupt process is periodically performed according to the period set in step 1802. Referring to FIG. 18B, in this interruption process, the effect control unit 300 receives a command from the game control unit 200 and performs a command reception process (step 1811). In this command reception process, an effect pattern is selected. In addition, the effect control unit 300 performs effect button processing for accepting operations such as an effect button by the player (step 1812). Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs command transmission processing for transmitting a command including information on the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (step 1813). As a result, effects such as image display on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 are performed.

[Command reception processing by the production control unit]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the command reception process (step 1811 in FIG. 18B).
In this command reception process, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not the received command is a command for increasing the number of holds (holding number increase command) (step 1901). This pending number increase command is set in the start port switch process shown in FIG. 6 in the game control unit 200 (steps 606 and 612), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG. Is done. If the command is an increase command for the number of holdings (Yes in Step 1901), the effect control unit 300 adds 1 to the value of the number of holdings held in the RAM 303 (Step 1902), and shows the value of the number of holdings after the addition. A number command is set in the RAM 303 (step 1903).

When the received command is not a pending number increase command (No in step 1901), or when a command is received after setting the pending number increase command in step 1903, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a change start command. Is determined (step 1904). This variation start command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 811), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is a change start command (Yes in Step 1904), the effect control unit 300 executes a change effect selection process (Step 1905). Details of the variation effect selection process will be described later.

When the received command is not the pending number increase command and the change start command (No in Step 1901 and Step 1904), or when the command is received after the execution of the change effect selection process in Step 1905, the effect control unit 300 receives the received command Is a change stop command (step 1906). This variation stop command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 814), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is a variation stop command (Yes in Step 1906), the effect control unit 300 executes a process during the end of the variation effect (Step 1907). Details of the process during the end of the variation effect will be described later.

If the received command is not a pending number increase command, a change start command, or a change stop command (No in Step 1901, Step 1904, and Step 1906), or if a command is received after the execution of the variable effect end process in Step 1907, The controller 300 determines whether or not the received command is a conditional device command (step 1908). This condition device command is set in the in-stop process shown in FIG. 11-1 in the game control unit 200 (step 1115), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG. .
If the received command is a conditional device command (Yes in Step 1908), the effect control unit 300 executes a waiting process for the combination device operation (Step 1909). The details of the waiting-for-combination apparatus operation process will be described later.

When the received command is not a pending number increase command, a fluctuation start command, a fluctuation stop command, or a conditional device command (No in Step 1901, Step 1904, Step 1906, and Step 1908), or in the process of waiting for an association device operation in Step 1909 When the command is received after execution, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a combination device operation start command (step 1910). This combination device activation start command is set in the round start flag determination process shown in FIG. 14-3 (step 1454), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is the combination device operation start command (Yes in Step 1910), the effect control unit 300 executes the combination device operation effect selection process (Step 1911). Details of the combination device operation effect selection process will be described later.

If the received command is not a pending number increase command, a change start command, a change stop command, a conditional device command, and a combination device operation start command (No in Step 1901, Step 1904, Step 1906, Step 1908 and Step 1910), or Step When a command is received after the execution of the 1911 combination device operation effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is an opening command for starting the opening in the jackpot effect (step 1912). This opening command is set in the opening process shown in FIG. 11-2 (step 1133), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is an opening command (Yes in Step 1912), the effect control unit 300 executes a hit effect selection process (Step 1913). Details of the winning effect selection process will be described later.

When the received command is not a pending number increase command, a change start command, a change stop command, a conditional device command, a combination device operation start command, or an opening command (step 1901, step 1904, step 1906, step 1908, step 1910 and step 1912) If the command is received after the hit effect selection process in step 1913, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is an ending command for starting the ending in the jackpot effect (step 1914). This ending command is set in the big prize opening process shown in FIG. 14-2 (step 1414), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is an ending command (Yes in Step 1914), the effect control unit 300 executes an ending effect selection process (Step 1915). Details of the ending effect selection process will be described later.

  When the received command is not a pending number increase command, a change start command, a change stop command, a conditional device command, an association device operation start command, an opening command, or an ending command (step 1901, step 1904, step 1906, step 1908, step 1910) If the command is received after the end of the ending effect selection process in step 1915), the effect control unit 300 next receives the customer waiting command for the received command to shift to the customer waiting state. A reception process is executed (step 1916). Details of the customer waiting command reception process will be described later.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a setting example of the mode flag.
When an effect is performed by the effect control unit 300, various effect patterns are selected and executed based on the operation mode set according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery. This operation mode is determined by a mode flag set in the RAM 303. In the example shown in FIG. 20, five types of modes from A mode to E mode are set, and mode flag values 0 to 4 are assigned to each mode. The B mode is a jackpot of probability variation symbol A, the C mode is a bonus symbol of normal symbol A, the D mode is a jackpot of probability variation symbol B and normal symbol B, and the E mode is a jackpot of small probability probability symbol Each win is assigned. Here, the types of these symbols are the same as those shown in FIG. No hit is assigned to the A mode. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 20, the parameter M (M value) used in the process during the end of the changing effect is set individually for each mode except the A mode. The mode flag is an example of information related to the hit type.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variable effect selection process (step 1905) of FIG.
In this variation effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received variation start command (step 2101). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2102), and subtracts 1 from the value of the number of holdings held in the RAM 303 (step 2103). Then, the effect control unit 300 is based on various setting information (information about jackpot type, gaming state after jackpot game, variation pattern, etc.) obtained from the analysis result of the variation start command and the operation mode determined by the mode flag. Then, a design variation effect pattern (variation effect pattern) is selected based on the image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the operation mode (step 2104). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads from the ROM 302 image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern, and sets a change effect start command instructing the start of execution of the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data. Then, the variation effect selection process is completed (step 2105).

FIG. 22-1 is a flowchart showing the contents of the changing effect end process (step 1907) of FIG.
In the process during the end of the change effect, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received change stop command (step 2201). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2202). Then, the production control unit 300 determines whether or not the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is based on the information indicating the type of the symbol when the special symbol variation obtained from the analysis result of the variation stop command is stopped (big hit or small hit). It is determined whether or not (step 2203). If it is any hit (Yes in Step 2203), the mode flag set in the RAM 303 is changed based on the setting example shown in FIG. 20 according to the type of hit (Step 2204).

  On the other hand, when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is not successful (No in Step 2203), the effect control unit 300 next checks whether or not the value of the mode flag is 0 (Step 2205). When the mode flag is not 0 (No in Step 2205), the effect control unit 300 subtracts 1 from the parameter M (Step 2206), and checks whether the value of M has become 0 (Step 2207). If the value of M becomes 0 (Yes in Step 2207), the effect control unit 300 sets the mode flag to 0 (Step 2208).

  If the mode flag is 0 in Step 2205 (Yes in Step 2205), if the value of the parameter M is not 0 in Step 2207 (No in Step 2207), or the mode flag is set to 0 in Step 2208 After or after changing the mode flag in step 2204, the effect control unit 300 sets a change effect end command for instructing the end of the effect of symbol change in the RAM 303, and ends the process during the end of the change effect ( Step 2209). Here, referring to FIG. 20, when the mode flag is changed in step 2204, the operation mode after the end of the changing effect is an operation mode corresponding to the winning type. When the mode flag is 0 in step 2205 and when the mode flag is set to 0 in step 2208, the operation mode after the end of the changing effect is the A mode. On the other hand, if the value of the parameter M is not 0 in step 2207, the operation mode so far is continued.

FIG. 22-2 is a flowchart showing the contents of the waiting-for-association apparatus operation waiting process (step 1909) of FIG.
In this waiting-and-interaction device operation waiting process, the production control unit 300 first analyzes the received conditional device command (step 2231). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2232). Then, the effect control unit 300 checks whether the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 (step 2233). When the mode flag is either 1 or 2 (Yes in Step 2233), the effect control unit 300 displays various setting information (a jackpot type, a gaming state after the jackpot game, etc.) obtained from the analysis result of the conditional device command. Based on the information, an effect pattern (action waiting effect pattern) based on the image displayed on the image display unit 114 is selected (step 2234). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected operation waiting effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets an operation waiting effect command for instructing the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data ( Step 2235), the process of waiting for the combination device operation is terminated. When the mode flag is neither 1 nor 2 (No in step 2233), the waiting-for-interaction device operation waiting process is terminated.
As described above, when the winning type is the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol A, a predetermined image is displayed on the image display unit 114 after the variation stop command is received until the combination device operation start command is received. Is displayed. In other words, when the winning type is the probability variation symbol B or the normal symbol B, the probability display symbol A or the normal symbol A is displayed on the image display unit 114 before receiving the service device operation start command. The predetermined image is not displayed.
In step 2234, a modification in which different action waiting effect patterns are selected depending on whether the mode flag is 1 or 2 is also conceivable.

FIG. 22-3 is a flowchart showing the contents of the combination device operation effect selection process (step 1911) of FIG.
In the combination device operation effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received combination device operation start command (step 2261). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2262). Then, the effect control unit 300 checks whether the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 (step 2263). When the mode flag is either 1 or 2 (Yes in step 2263), the effect control unit 300 selects an effect pattern (interaction device operation effect pattern) according to the content obtained from the analysis result (step). 2264). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads out image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected combination device operation effect pattern from the ROM 302 and, together with these data, an accessory device operation effect command for instructing the selected effect. (Step 2265), and the combination device operation effect selection process is terminated. If the mode flag is neither 1 nor 2 (No in step 2263), the combination device operation effect selection process is terminated.
As described above, when the win type is the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol A, a predetermined image is displayed on the image display unit 114 after receiving the combination device operation start command and before receiving the opening command. Is displayed. In other words, when the winning type is the probability variation symbol B or the normal symbol B, the predetermined image displayed on the image display unit 114 until the opening command is received in the case of the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol A is Do not show.
In step 2264, a modification is also conceivable in which different combination device operation effect patterns are selected depending on whether the mode flag is 1 or 2.

  More specifically, in the waiting-for-association device operation process (see FIG. 22-2) before receiving the combination device operation start command (see FIG. 22-2), an operation waiting effect command is set (see step 2235). In the combination device operation effect selection process (see FIG. 22-3) after receiving the start command, the combination device operation effect command is set (see step 2265). For this reason, it is possible to display different effects on the image display unit 114 before and after receiving the combination device operation start command.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of the hit effect selection process (step 1913) in FIG.
In this winning effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received opening command (step 2301), and selects an effect pattern (winning effect pattern) according to the contents of the opening operation obtained from the analysis result. (Step 2302). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads out image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets a hit effect start command for instructing the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data. The effect selection process is terminated (step 2303). This winning effect is also called an opening effect.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of the ending effect selection process (step 1915) of FIG.
In this ending effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received ending command (step 2401), and refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 2402). Next, the effect control unit 300 selects an effect pattern (ending effect pattern) according to the content of the ending operation obtained from the analysis result of the ending command (step 2403). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads out image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets an ending effect start command for instructing the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data. The effect selection process is terminated (step 2404).

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting command reception process (step 1916) of FIG.
The production control unit 300 determines whether or not a customer waiting command for shifting to the customer waiting state has been received (step 2501). When the customer waiting command is received (Yes in step 2501), the effect control unit 300 starts measuring the elapsed time (step 2502) and turns on the measurement flag in the RAM 303 (step 2503). On the other hand, if the received command is not a customer waiting command (No in step 2501), it is determined whether or not the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 is ON (step 2504). If the measurement flag is OFF (No in step 2504), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated.

  When the measurement flag is ON (Yes in step 2504 or after being turned ON in step 2503), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the measurement time has reached a predetermined time-up time ( Step 2505). If the time is not up (No in step 2505), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated. On the other hand, when the time is up (Yes in Step 2505), the effect control unit 300 turns off the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 (Step 2506), and sets a customer waiting effect command for performing the customer waiting effect in the RAM 303. Then, the customer waiting command reception process ends (step 2507).

When the command reception process is completed as described above, the RAM 303 has a change effect start command, a change effect end command, an operation wait effect command, a combination device operation effect command, a hit effect start command, an ending effect start command, a customer wait. One of the production commands is set.
In addition, when the operation waiting effect command is set in the RAM 303, the customer waiting effect command is not set in the RAM 303, so that the customer waiting screen is not displayed on the image display unit 114.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect button process (step 1812 in FIG. 18B).
In the process during the end of the variation effect, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not an effect button or the like by the player has been operated (step 2601). Here, the operation of the effect button or the like includes turning on the effect button 161 and turning it on when the center key or the surrounding key of the effect key 162 is pressed. In addition, when an operation device other than the effect button 161 and the effect key 162 such as a touch panel is provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100, this includes detecting the operation of the device. The effect control unit 300 receives an operation signal from the controller of these devices and detects that an operation has been performed.

  If the effect button or the like is operated (Yes in step 2601), the effect control unit 300 sets an effect button command including information indicating the operation content such as the effect button in the RAM 303, and ends the effect button process (step). 2602).

  Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs the command transmission process (step 1813) of FIG. 18B, and the command set in the RAM 303 by the command reception process and the effect button process described above is processed by the image / sound control unit 310. And transmitted to the lamp controller 320. Then, the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 display an image on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the received command. Is controlled to execute the set effect.

[Control by the game control unit from the change of special symbols to the opening and closing of the big prize opening]
Next, the control by the game control unit 200 from the start of the change of the special symbol to the opening / closing of the special winning opening 125 in this embodiment has already been described using the flowchart, but the present invention will be clarified further. Therefore, the time chart will be described below.
FIG. 27 is a time chart for explaining the control from the variation of the special symbol to the opening / closing of the big winning opening.
The game control unit 200 starts the variation of the special symbol by the special symbol processing at the time point t1 (see step 810 in FIG. 8), and stops the variation of the special symbol at the time point t2 when the variation time has elapsed (step 813 in FIG. 8). reference).
Then, in the game control unit 200, the condition device command is set in the special symbol processing stop process, assuming that the operation of the condition device is started at time t3 (see step 1115 in FIG. 11-1). After that, the game control unit 200 sets the combination device operation start command in the round start flag determination process of the big prize opening process, assuming that the operation of the accessory continuous operation device starts at time t4 (FIG. 14-3). Step 1454 of FIG. Then, after the opening time has elapsed, opening / closing of the winning prize opening 125 starts (time t5), and the round starts.

  Further explanation will be given. When the condition device is actuated at time t3, the accessory continuous actuating device is not actuated immediately and the opening / closing of the special winning opening 125 is not started (see the broken line in FIG. 27). That is, the operation of the accessory continuous operation device (time point t4) is performed when the game ball passes through one of the round start gates 141 to 143 and the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned on. As described above, the accessory continuous operation device does not operate unless the game ball passes through one of the round start gates 141 to 143 and the round start switches 225 to 227 are turned ON. That is, the operation of the condition device and the operation of the accessory continuous operation device (round start) are not linked to each other. Therefore, the player can start the round at his convenience.

As described above, when any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned ON (time point t4), the accessory continuous operation device operates. In this sense, the round start switches 225 to 227 can be referred to as operation switches of the accessory continuous operation device (switches of the combination device).
In addition, when any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned ON (time point t4), the effect that has been performed up to that point (the effect based on the display image example before the operation of the accessory continuous operation device described later) ends. To do. In this sense, the round start switches 225 to 227 can be referred to as end switches or effect end switches for effects before the combination device operation. If it adds, it can be said that the production | presentation by the example of an image before the action | operation of the accessory continuous action | operation apparatus mentioned later is an effect which is not compulsorily ended in the pachinko game machine 100 side.
In addition, when any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 is turned ON (time point t4), a different effect (effect based on a display image example after the operation of an accessory continuous operation device described later) is started. In this sense, the round start switches 225 to 227 can be referred to as a start switch or an effect start switch for the after-appliance device operation.

This will be further described. The time T corresponding to the time period from when the condition device is activated (time point t3) to when the accessory continuous activation device is activated (time point t4) may be very short or very long. Even if the time T is an extremely long time, the operation waiting effect command (step 1909 in FIG. 19) is performed in the waiting process for the combination device operation by the operation of the condition device (reception of the condition device command by the effect control unit 300). And step 2235 in FIG. 22-2) is set in the RAM 303. For this reason, during the time T, setting of the customer waiting effect command in the RAM 303 in the customer waiting command receiving process (see step 1916 in FIG. 19 and step 2507 in FIG. 25) is not performed. Therefore, even if the time T is extremely long, the screen does not shift to the customer waiting state, and the screen for waiting for the customer is not displayed on the image display unit 114.
As described above, the time T varies depending on the player's operation, and it can be said that the time T is not a predetermined time but an unspecified time. Note that the time T is a time without any restrictions in the rules and can be said to be a free time.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the variation of the special symbol is terminated by the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 (see FIG. 3), and a specific symbol combination is displayed. When the big hit is confirmed, the winning game flag is set (see steps 1111, 1112 and 1117 in FIG. 11-1), and the condition device is activated. Then, the game control unit 200 sets a condition device command (condition device operation start command) (see step 1115 in the figure) and transmits it to the effect control unit 300.
Even if the winning game flag is turned ON, the game control unit 200 does not set the opening command unless the combination device operation start flag is turned ON (see step 801 in FIG. 8 and step 1131 in FIG. 11-2). In other words, when the winning game flag and the combination device activation start flag are turned ON, an opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300. When the opening command is set, the combination device operation start flag is turned OFF (see step 1134 in FIG. 11-2).
When the round start switches 225 to 227 (see FIG. 3) detect that a game ball has passed through any of the round start gates 141 to 143 (see FIG. 29A) after transmitting the condition device command. The game control unit 200 sets the round start flag to ON (see step 719 in FIG. 7-2), sets the combination device operation start command (see step 1454 in FIG. 14-3), and transmits it to the effect control unit 300. . In addition, the game control unit 200 turns on the combination device activation start flag (see step 1455 in the figure). When the round ends, the round start flag is turned off together with the winning game flag (see steps 1420 and 1421 in FIG. 14-2).

And the production | generation control part 300 will set an operation waiting production | presentation command, if the conditional device command is received (refer Yes in step 1908 of FIG. 19) (refer step 2235 of FIG. 22-2). Thereby, the effect before the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is performed. Further, when receiving the combination device operation start command (see Yes in step 1910 in FIG. 19), the production control unit 300 sets the combination device operation production command (see step 2265 in FIG. 22-3). Thereby, the effect after the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is performed.
In addition, when receiving the opening command (see Yes in step 1912 in FIG. 19), the effect control unit 300 sets a winning effect start command (see step 2303 in FIG. 23). Thereby, a winning effect is performed by the winning effect pattern (see step 2302 of FIG. 23) included in the winning effect start command.

[First Embodiment]
Next, a first embodiment will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the first embodiment includes a special prize opening unit 40.
First, the big prize opening unit 40 to which the big prize opening 125 (see FIG. 1) is attached will be described.

[Composition of the big prize unit 40]
FIGS. 28A and 28B are diagrams illustrating the special prize opening unit 40 according to the first embodiment. That is, (a) in FIG. 28-1 is a front view of the special winning opening unit 40, (b) in FIG. 28-1 is a perspective view thereof, and (c) in FIG. 28-1 is the same drawing. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which expands and shows (a) partially. 28A is a perspective view seen from a direction different from FIG. 28B, and FIG. 28B is a game ball flowing down the slope 41. It is a front view explaining the flow. Hereinafter, FIG. 28-1 and FIG. 28-2 may be referred to as FIG. The special winning opening 125 is located on the right side of the game area 111 when viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the right-handed game ball is configured to be able to win the special winning opening 125 (see FIG. 1). ).
As shown to (a) of FIG. 28-1, the big prize opening unit 40 is provided with the square hole 40a formed in the rectangular shape for the door 128 (refer FIG. 1) which the big prize opening 125 opens and closes. . More specifically, an open / close mechanism (not shown) that opens and closes the door 128 of the special prize opening 125 under the control of the game control unit 200 (see FIG. 3) is attached to the special prize opening unit 40. The door 128 and the opening / closing mechanism (not shown) of the special winning opening 125 constitute a part of the special winning opening / closing section 216 (see FIG. 3).
In other words, the door 128 of the special winning opening 125 is located on the right side of the game area 111 and in the vicinity of the lower edge (see FIG. 1).
The special winning opening unit 40 includes a plurality of mounting holes (not shown) for mounting on the main body of the game board 110.

[Structure and function of providing device 50]
The special winning opening unit 40 includes a providing device 50 for providing game balls to a sorting device 10 (see FIG. 1), which will be described later. The providing device 50 includes a slope 41 through which a right-handed game ball can pass. The slope 41 is positioned to extend in the left-right direction below the square hole 40a. More specifically, the slope 41 is formed to be inclined so that the game ball rolls from right to left in a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 100.
Thus, the slope 41 is located below the special winning opening 125 in the game area 111. In other words, the slope 41 is formed to constitute the lower edge (see FIG. 1) of the game area 111.

In addition, the providing device 50 has a recess 42 having a space necessary for a game ball to enter on the downstream side of the slope 41 and a game ball that is separated from the slope 41 and flows down the slope 41 toward the recess 42. And a wall 43 as a block member having a rebound surface for rebounding.
As shown in (b) of FIG. 28-1, the recess 42 is formed so that a part of the slope 41 is recessed downward so that one game ball can be accommodated in the space. Moreover, as shown to (a) of FIG. 28-1, the wall part 43 is located in the left side by the front view rather than the door 128 of the prize winning opening 125. As shown to FIG. In the present embodiment, the rebound surface 43f is formed substantially flat on the right side of the wall 43 when viewed from the front.

In addition, the providing device 50 includes a movable piece 44 that operates so as to stay and release the game ball that rebounds on the rebound surface 43 f of the wall portion 43 and enters the space of the recess portion 42. The movable piece 44 receives the driving force of the driving unit 45 controlled by the lamp control unit 320 of the effect control unit 300 as shown in FIG. It is movable. More specifically, the movable piece 44 is a stop position (a broken line of FIG. 28C (c)) of the movable piece 44 that prevents the game ball that has entered the recess 42 from moving and stops in the recess 42. And a release position (see the position of the movable piece 44 shown by the solid line in FIG. 28C) for releasing the game ball so that the game ball that has entered the recess 42 is advanced. , One of them is selectively activated.
Note that the game balls released when the movable piece 44 reaches the release position enter a sorting device 10 (see FIG. 1) described later.

Here, the effect control unit 300 (see FIG. 3) controls the drive unit 45 for the movable piece 44 so that the movable piece 44 is normally at the stop position and the movable piece 44 is at the release position in a predetermined case. That is, the effect control unit 300 controls the movable piece 44 at the release position to be changed to the release position in a predetermined case.
The time for the movable piece 44 to be in the release position may be a time required to release one game ball in the recess 42. The production control unit 300 performs control so that the movable piece 44 is returned to the stop position after the release position is set for a relatively short time.

In a predetermined case as a condition for the movable piece 44 to be in the release position, there is an input operation or input operation by the player. In other words, the movable piece 44 is actuated upon confirmation of the player's will.
Various input operations or input operations by the player can be considered. As an example, it can be mentioned that the effect button 161 (see FIG. 1 or 2B) is pushed down by the player. As another example, a sensor that is attached to the frame member 150 and can detect the presence of an object in front of the pachinko gaming machine 100, such as a motion sensor (not shown), is a player's action (for example, in front of the pachinko gaming machine 100). Can be mentioned that the movement of the player holding his / her hand is detected.
An effect button 161 and a motion sensor (not shown) detect the operation of the player under the control of the lamp control unit 320 (see FIG. 3).

It can be said that the game balls flowing down the slope 41 are those that have not won the big prize opening 125.
More specifically, a lottery gate 124 is disposed above the door 128 of the special winning opening 125 (see FIG. 1). Therefore, a game ball that passes through the lottery gate 124 or falls in the vicinity of the lottery gate 124 wins the big prize opening 125 if the door 128 is open, and large if the door 128 is not open. It flows down without winning the prize opening 125 and rolls the slope 41.
In addition, the game ball rolling on the slope 41 enters the dent portion 42 and is provided to the sorting device 10, or when it does not enter the dent portion 42, it faces the second start port 122 including the electric tulip 123. The game ball heading for the second start port 122 wins the second start port 122 when the electric tulip 123 opens and closes.
In this way, the game ball hit right in the game area 111 passes through the lottery gate 124, wins the big winning opening 125 and the second starting opening 122, or is provided to the distribution device 10. For this reason, since the right-handed game ball is used so as to affect the game, the number of useless game balls can be reduced.

The game balls provided to the sorting device 10 are discharged from the ball outlet 46 of the sorting device 10 after performing the round sorting, and if the electric tulip 123 opens and closes, the game ball is won at the second starting port 122. Thereby, it is prevented that the game ball provided to the sorting device 10 is always discharged from the discharge port 117 (see FIG. 1), and generation of useless game balls is suppressed.
However, it is also assumed that it is difficult in terms of the layout of the board to give the possibility that the game ball discharged from the ball outlet 46 to the outside of the sorting apparatus 10 wins the second start port 122. In such a case, it is conceivable to adopt a configuration in which game balls discharged from the ball outlet 46 to the outside of the sorting apparatus 10 are always discharged from the outlet 117 (see FIG. 1).

In addition, although the control of the lamp control unit 320 can be considered to always change the movable piece 44 to the release position when an input operation is performed by the player, other control examples are also conceivable.
For example, the control example is based on the premise that a game state that requires a round distribution by the distribution device 10 (see FIG. 1) after the big hit is obtained. Moreover, it is a control example which presupposes that the sensor which detects whether the game ball has stopped in the hollow part 42 is detected, and the stop of the game ball was detected by this sensor.

Here, as shown in (a) of FIG. 28-2, the slope 41 located on the downstream side (left side in front view) with respect to the recess 42 is lower than the slope 41 on the upstream side (right side in front view). To position. That is, the slope 41 is formed so as to be stepped with the depression 42 as a boundary. The wall 43 is located above the lower slope 41 on the downstream side. With such an arrangement, the game ball that flows down the upstream slope 41 from the right in the front view to the left is bounced off by the rebound surface 43f of the wall portion 43, and flows down from the left in the front view to the right. It becomes easy to enter.
In this way, the rebound surface 43f of the wall 43 changes the flow direction of the game ball so that the game ball flowing down the slope 41 on the upstream side is directed to enter the recess 42. Note that a configuration example in which a game nail (not shown) is used as a member for changing the flow direction is also conceivable. In addition, when using the wall 43 as a block member instead of a game nail (not shown), the rebound direction is stabilized, and there is little risk of performance degradation due to long-term use.

  More specifically, when the game ball has not stayed in the recess 42 (see (a) of FIG. 28-2), the game ball flowing down the slope 41 rebounds at the rebound surface 43f of the wall 43 and becomes a recess. It is allowed to enter the space of the portion 42. On the other hand, the hollow part 42 is formed so that the number of game balls staying in the hollow part 42 is one. For this reason, when the game ball has already stayed in the hollow portion 42 (see (b) of FIG. 28-2), other game balls that bounce off the rebound surface 43f of the wall portion 43 and head toward the hollow portion 42. It is not possible to enter the space of the recess 42.

As shown in (b) of FIG. 28-2, the providing device 50 includes an overhanging portion 47 that affects the behavior of the game ball with respect to the recessed portion 42. The projecting portion 47 is formed on the entrance side of the recessed portion 42, and is formed on the downstream end of the slope 41 positioned on the upstream side with respect to the recessed portion 42.
The overhanging portion 47 overhangs so as to partially cover the upper portion of the recessed portion 42 on the side opposite to the wall portion 43. In other words, the projecting portion 47 projects so as to narrow the entrance of the recessed portion 42 on the side opposite to the wall portion 43.

Due to the action of the overhanging portion 47, other game balls are prevented from riding on the game balls staying in the hollow portion 42. More specifically, even if one game ball stays in the recess 42, even if another game ball rebounds on the rebound surface 43f of the wall 43, the other game ball is It is not possible to maintain the state on the game ball. That is, the other game balls ride on the game ball at a position that is biased toward the downstream slope 41 by the overhanging portion 47, so that it rolls down and flows down to the downstream slope 41 by its own weight.
If the game ball staying in the recess 42 stays in a state where another game ball rides on the game ball, the upstream side comes into contact with the other game ball staying temporarily. There is a possibility that the game ball flowing down the slope 41 stops. Such stoppage of the ball game ball in the game area 111 causes a ball clogging, which is not preferable. In the present embodiment, as described above, the protruding portion 47 restricts entry of the game ball into the recess 42 so as not to adversely affect the movement of the game ball in the upstream slope 41. doing. In other words, the overhanging portion 47 restricts the entry of the game ball flowing down the upstream slope 41 in the state where the game ball is stopped in the recess portion 42 into the recess portion 42.

More specifically, as shown in (b) of FIG. 28-2, the game ball staying in the hollow portion 42 comes into contact with the subsequent game ball bounced off at the rebound surface 43 f of the wall portion 43. The subsequent game balls flow down the slope 41 on the downstream side after contact. In this way, the game balls staying in the recess 42 constitute the path of the subsequent game balls together with the slope 41.
As described above, the recess 42 constitutes the path of the game ball followed by the game ball staying in the recess 42 together with the slope 41. In addition, the hollow portion 42 does not constitute a passage of the following game ball when the game ball does not stay in the hollow portion 42.
Further, the movement of the game ball flowing down the slope 41 gives the player a visual enjoyment, and the player can enjoy the enjoyment of the game.

[Structure / Function of Sorting Device 10]
Next, the distribution device 10 (see FIG. 1) that is attached to the game board 110 via the special prize opening unit 40 will be described. As described above, the distribution device 10 is used for distributing the number of rounds (round distribution), and the number of rounds is determined using the game balls launched by the player in the game area 111. (See steps 715, 717, and 718 in FIG. 7-2).

FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10. More specifically, FIG. 29A is a perspective view from above illustrating the configuration of the sorting device 10, and FIG. 29B illustrates the shape of the receiving portion 21 provided in the sorting device 10. FIG. 29C is a longitudinal sectional view for explaining another shape of the receiving portion 21. FIG. 30 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10.
As shown in FIG. 29 (a) and FIG. 30, the sorting device 10 includes a plurality of openings formed in a shape through which a game ball can pass as a game ball sorting destination. The plurality of openings herein include the first round start gate 141, the second round start gate 142, and the third round start gate 143. These round start gates 141 to 143 are used for sorting to determine the number of rounds in the long hit gaming state or the presence / absence of a rank-up bonus operation.
And as shown to (a) of FIG. 29 and FIG. 30, the distribution apparatus 10 is provided with the round start switches 225-227 which detect the game ball passage of the round start gates 141-143. That is, the passing of the game ball at the first round start gate 141 is detected by the first round start switch 225. Further, the passing of the game ball at the round start second gate 142 is detected by the round start second switch 226, and the passing of the game ball at the round start third gate 143 is detected by the round start third switch 227.

  When the round start switches 225 to 227 of the sorting device 10 are turned on by passing the game ball when the long hit game flag is ON, the round start flag is set from OFF to ON (see step 719 in FIG. 7-2). ). Then, when the combination device operation start flag is turned on (see step 1455 in FIG. 14-3), the opening operation is started (see step 1132 in FIG. 11-2), and the door 128 of the big prize opening 125 is opened. Is started (see step 1408 in FIG. 14A). Therefore, it can be said that the distribution device 10 is a starting point for opening the special winning opening 125.

In addition, the sorting apparatus 10 includes, as a plurality of openings, a breakout hole 144 positioned between the round start first gate 141 and the round start second gate 142, and the round start second gate 142 and the round start. A breakout hole 145 located between the third gate 143 and a breakout hole 146 located between the round start third gate 143 and the round start first gate 141 are provided.
Since the sorting apparatus 10 includes such detaching holes 144 to 146, it is not guaranteed that any one of the round start switches 225 to 227 can be turned on with one game ball.

The game balls that have passed through the round start gates 141 to 143 are returned to the board surface of the game board 110, that is, the game area 111. A configuration may be adopted in which the game balls that have entered the detaching holes 144 to 146 are returned to the game area 111, or a configuration in which the game balls are not returned and may be employed.
In the present embodiment, the separation distance between the round start gates 141 to 143 and the receiving portion 21 described later is longer than the separation distance between the separation holes 144 to 146 and the receiving portion 21. Although it is configured, it is also conceivable to have the same circumference so as to have the same separation distance.
Further, instead of the round start gates 141 to 143, a plurality of winning openings (not shown) and a plurality of starting openings (not shown) may be considered.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29 (a) and FIG. 30, a switch for detecting the passage of the game ball in these slip holes 144 to 146 is not provided. Therefore, until the game ball passes any one of the round start gates 141 to 143, the game ball may be right-handed, and even if it passes any of the off-holes 144 to 146, it will affect the jackpot round distribution. Does not affect.

More specifically, as a modification of the present embodiment, it is conceivable to provide a switch (not shown) for detecting that a game ball has passed through any one of the holes 144 to 146. That is, when the game ball passes through any of the holes 144 to 146 before passing through any of the round start gates 141 to 143, the so-called puncture is completed, in which the big hit ends without determining the number of the big hit rounds. It is the modification controlled to become.
In the case of such a modified example, in the round start switch process (see FIG. 7-2), control is performed to turn on the puncture flag for identifying the occurrence of puncture and turn on the round start flag. Further, in the special prize opening process (see FIGS. 14-1 to 14-3), it is first checked whether or not the puncture flag is ON. If it is ON, the ending is started (see step 1413 in FIG. 14-2). ) Is performed. With such a control, even if the big hit is a long hit, if the game ball passes through any of the holes 144 to 146, all rounds will not be executed at all, and the current big hit will be a hit without a ball. .

  In models that employ such a control that becomes punctured, the round start flag not only when the big hit is a long win (when the long win game flag is ON) but also when the jackpot is a short hit (when the short hit game flag is ON) It is conceivable to perform control so that a round starts on the condition that is turned ON.

In the case of puncture, it is a condition that the game ball passes through a specific break hole (for example, the break hole 144) in the three break holes 144 to 146, and other break holes (for example, the break holes 145, 146). A control example that does not require the game ball to pass through () is also conceivable.
Moreover, as a case where it becomes punctured, it is conceivable that the accessory continuous operation device does not operate even if a predetermined time elapses after the condition device operates. The determination as to whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed is realized by the game control unit 200 (see FIG. 3) adopting a configuration including an RTC and acquiring time information.

Returning to the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10 in the present embodiment.
As shown to (a) of FIG. 29, the distribution apparatus 10 is provided with the receiving part 21 which receives the game ball which falls. As shown in FIG. 30, the receiving portion 21 is arranged so as to be surrounded by the round start gates 141 to 143 and the disconnect holes 144 to 146.
Note that the game balls received by the receiving unit 21 of the sorting apparatus 10 are those that are hit right and flow down toward the game area 111 (see FIG. 1). Moreover, the receiving part 21 is formed with the transparent member which makes the inside of the distribution device 10 visible from a player.

  As shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B, the receiving portion 21 is inclined with respect to the plane 26 provided in the main body of the sorting apparatus 10, and the inclined surface 21a is formed so that the received game ball rolls down. And a rib portion 21b that surrounds the inclined surface 21a and is formed so as not to affect the movement of the game ball rolling down the inclined surface 21a. The game ball received by the receiving unit 21 starts to roll on the inclined surface 21a by its own weight. In other words, the direction in which the game ball received by the receiving portion 21 rolls is defined by the direction of the inclined surface 21a and the rib portion 21b.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 29B, the receiving portion 21 according to the present embodiment has a flat surface, and an inclined surface 21a is formed so as to follow the flat surface. . When the game ball lands on a flat surface at the receiving unit 21, the center of gravity of the game ball is positioned above the inclined surface 21a instead of the flat surface. For this reason, the game ball that has landed on the receiving portion 21 starts to roll on the inclined surface 21a by its own weight.
It is also conceivable that the receiving portion 21 according to the present embodiment has a shape other than the shape shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 29C, the receiving portion 21 has a shape in which only the inclined surface 21a is formed without having a flat surface.

The receiving unit 21 has a rotation axis (not shown) substantially parallel to the board surface of the game board 110, and can rotate with respect to the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off holes 144 to 146. A rotating shaft (not shown) of the receiving portion 21 is configured to extend in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG.
Thus, it can be said that the receiving unit 21 of the sorting apparatus 10 is a rotating body that sorts game balls.
In other words, the receiving unit 21 rotates with respect to the main body of the sorting apparatus 10 attached to the game board 110, and the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off holes 144 to 146 do not rotate with respect to the main body.

Further, as shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 30, in the sorting device 10, the wall portion 22 is formed so as to surround the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off holes 144 to 146. The wall portion 22 is formed so as to surround each of the round start gates 141 to 143, but it is difficult for the game ball rolling down the inclined surface 21 a of the receiving portion 21 to enter the release holes 144 to 146. It is also conceivable to use a shape of the wall portion 22.
The wall portion 22 is formed of a transparent member that allows the inside of the sorting apparatus 10 to be visually recognized by the player.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 30, the sorting apparatus 10 includes a first guide portion 23 extending from the receiving portion 21 side to the first round start gate 141 and a second starting gate 142 from the receiving portion 21 side. A second guide portion 24 that extends and a third guide portion 25 that extends from the receiving portion 21 side to the third round start gate 143 are provided.
In other words, the first guide portion 23 extends from the first gate 141 for round start in the direction of the receiving portion 21. The second guide part 24 extends from the second round start gate 142 toward the receiving part 21, and the third guide part 25 extends from the third round start gate 143 toward the receiving part 21. Hereinafter, the first guide unit 23, the second guide unit 24, and the third guide unit 25 may be referred to as guide units 23 to 25.

In these guide portions 23 to 25, the guide path is constituted by two convex shape portions projecting upward from the plane 26 of the sorting device 10, but the guide path is formed by the concave shape portion that makes the plane 26 depressed. Examples are also possible.
Moreover, the modification which the distribution apparatus 10 is not provided with the guide parts 23-25 at all, and the modification provided with either one or two of the guide parts 23-25 are also considered.

  More specifically, the first guide portion 23 is configured such that the game ball rolling down the inclined surface 21a of the receiving portion 21 toward the first gate 141 for round start does not enter the release holes 144 and 146, and the first gate for round start. It acts so that it may pass through 141 easily. In addition, the second guide unit 24 moves the second ball 142 for starting the round without causing the game ball rolling down the inclined surface 21a of the receiving unit 21 toward the second gate 142 for starting the round without entering the holes 144 and 145. It acts to facilitate passage. In addition, the third guide portion 25 moves the third gate 143 for starting the round without the game balls rolling down the inclined surface 21a of the receiving portion 21 toward the third gate 143 for starting the round without entering the separation holes 145, 146. It acts to facilitate passage.

Next, the distribution of the distribution device 10 will be described more specifically.
FIG. 31 is a plan view for explaining a sorting function of the sorting device 10, and FIGS. 31A, 31 </ b> B, and 31 </ b> C are plan views showing a case where game balls are sorted by the sorting device 10. is there.
As shown in FIGS. 31A to 31C, the inclined surface 21a of the receiving portion 21 is rotated so that the inclination with respect to the plane 26 (see FIG. 29 or FIG. 30) is maintained. That is, the inclined surface 21a which is a slope is rotating around the rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. In addition, when the receiving part 21 is rotating, the structure which does not block | close the round start gates 141-143 and the detachment holes 144-146 is employ | adopted.
In addition, in the present embodiment, the game ball received by the receiving unit 21 has a possibility of entering any one of the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off holes 144 to 146, and the round start gates 141 to A structure is adopted in which a ball is reliably entered by any one of 143.

More specifically, when the game ball is received by the receiving unit 21 in the case of FIG. 31A in which the downstream end of the inclined surface 21a is close to the first gate 141 for round start, the game ball is inclined to the inclined surface 21a. The first guide part 23 guides to the first gate 141 for the round start.
Similarly, in the case of FIG. 31B where the downstream end of the inclined surface 21a is close to the second gate 142 for starting the round, when the game ball is received by the receiving unit 21, the game ball moves to the inclined surface 21a. It rolls down and is guided by the second guide 24 to the second gate 142 for starting the round. In addition, in the case of FIG. 31C where the downstream end of the inclined surface 21a is close to the round start third gate 143, when the game ball is received by the receiving portion 21, the game ball rolls on the inclined surface 21a. Get off and be guided by the third guide 25 to the third gate 143 for starting the round.

  Here, in sorting device 10, receiving part 21 is rotationally driven with the same movement in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 30 (in the present embodiment, the clockwise direction in plan view). More specifically, although the receiving unit 21 rotates at a constant speed in one direction, the rotation temporarily stops at a position where the game ball rolling down the inclined surface 21a is guided by each of the guide units 23 to 25. After a certain period of time, it starts to rotate in the same direction again. That is, the receiving unit 21 stops for a certain period of time at the positions shown in FIGS.

In this way, the receiving unit 21 repeats the rotation movement and the stop movement. In other words, when the receiving part 21 makes a round around the rotation axis, the movement of always stopping at the same position is repeated.
As described above, one of the holes 144 to 146 is arranged between the adjacent gates of the round start gates 141 to 143. That is, the receiving part 21 passes in front of the breakthrough holes 144 to 146 and stops in front of the round start gates 141 to 143. For this reason, the receiving unit 21 makes a movement that makes it easier for the received game ball to pass through the round start gates 141 to 143 and to make it difficult to enter the breakout holes 144 to 146.

Here, in the distribution device 10, in addition to the control that does not always change the rotation speed and stop time of the receiving unit 21 as the same value, a control example in which the value of the rotation speed and the value of the stop time are determined according to a predetermined condition is also conceivable. . Examples of the predetermined condition include a gaming state, a pre-determination result, and a rotational speed lottery associated with winning. That is, there may be a case where the rotational speed and stop time of the receiving unit 21 are set to values different from usual values depending on the gaming state, the preliminary determination result, the result of the rotational speed lottery accompanying the winning, and the like.
In addition, from the viewpoint of the player, when the receiving unit 21 rotates slowly or when the receiving unit 21 stops for a long time, the player performs an input operation at any one of the round start gates 141 to 143. It can be said that it is easy to enter. That is, it becomes easy to aim at what the player desires among the round start gates 141 to 143.

  In other words, with the movement of the receiving portion 21 rotating in one direction, the direction of the game ball rolling on the inclined surface 21a of the receiving portion 21 is changed from the direction of the first gate 141 for round start to the direction of the second gate 142 for round start. Then, the direction further changes to the direction of the third gate 143 for starting a round. Then, the game ball distribution destination by the receiving unit 21 is the first round start gate 141, the detaching hole 144, the second round starting gate 142, the detaching hole 145, and the third round starting third located around the receiving unit 21. Such a cycle is repeated with one cycle being the sequential change to the gate 143 and the off-hole 146.

[Characteristics of sorting device 10]
As described above, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by setting the number of distribution destinations as the consecutive start switch in the distribution device 10 to three instead of two.
Here, if the number of distributions is 3 or more based on the conventional structure, the size is increased. As a conventional structure with two distribution destinations, for example, a structure in which a plate-like member supported at an intermediate position moves like a pendulum (pendulum movement, rocking movement) and distributes a flowing game ball to one of them There is. By arranging such a structure in the vertical direction, a configuration in which three or four distribution destinations are considered is conceivable. However, if such a configuration is adopted, the device becomes long in the vertical direction, resulting in a large occupation of the board surface of the game board 110.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, it is possible to make the distribution device 10 having the three distribution destinations of the round start gates 141 to 143 compact with a reduced external dimension. That is, the sorting apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment employs a structure in which the receiving unit 21 having the inclined surface 21a on which the game ball rolls rotates while the round start gates 141 to 143 do not rotate. A configuration with three distribution destinations as continuous start switches is realized in a space-saving manner. For this reason, when the distribution device 10 is attached to the game board 110, the range that occupies the surface of the game board 110 becomes smaller, and the dimensions of the game board 110 in the depth direction also become smaller. Therefore, it becomes easy to mount the sorter 10 that can enhance the interest of the game as a model, and it is possible to reduce the burden of model development and to reduce the cost by reducing the number of man-hours.
In the sorting apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, by changing the positions of the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off-holes 144 to 146, it is possible to easily handle two or more sorting destinations. Is possible.

[Other usage examples of the sorting apparatus 10]
As described above, in the present embodiment, in the distribution device 10, the game balls are distributed to any one of the round start gates 141 to 143, whereby the round start switches 225 to 227 are connected to the combination operation device operation switches or rounds. Although the usage examples used as the number selection switch and the round-up bonus operation switch have been described, other usage examples are conceivable.

  As another example of use, for example, a case where any one of the round start gates 141 to 143 is a so-called V zone for determining the jackpot is conceivable. In addition, any one of the round start gates 141 to 143 may be a V zone for proceeding to the next round, or a V zone for ending the jackpot game without proceeding to the next round.

In addition, as another example of use, for example, it is possible to execute various mini games using the sorting device 10. Illustratively, this is a mini game in which a specific gate among the round start gates 141 to 143 is displayed on the image display unit 114 so that the player can aim at entering a specific gate. Alternatively, it is a mini game (the order of entry is unquestioned) that causes the player to aim at entering all of the round start gates 141 to 143.
Further, the order of the balls entered into the round start gates 141 to 143 on the image display unit 114 (for example, the first gate 141 for the round start after first entering the first gate 141 for the round start). In the order of entering the second gate 142 for starting the round).

In addition, in any case where a long win or another big win is given, there may be modified examples in which various mini games using the sorting device 10 are employed. It is also conceivable that the various mini games are executed at a predetermined timing that is not a big hit.
When various mini games using such a sorter 10 are employed, a control example in which information or images that are highly likely to be of interest to the player according to the game result is provided to the player can be considered. Thereby, the player can be motivated to participate in the mini game.

In this embodiment, the round start switches 225 to 227 are used for turning on the round start flag. However, the round start switches 225 to 227 are not for turning on the round start flag. Variations that employ a configuration that is exclusively used for mini-games are also conceivable.
In the case of such a modification, the signal output destinations of the round start switches 225 to 227 are not configured to be the game control unit 200 (see FIG. 3), but the signal output destinations of the round start switches 225 to 227 are the same as the effect control unit 300. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the control burden on the game control unit 200.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described. Since the second embodiment has the same configuration and function as the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the common configuration, and the description and illustration of the common configuration and function are used. May be omitted. Various modifications described above for the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment. Also, a part of the configuration or control of the second embodiment can be applied to the first embodiment, and the part of the configuration or control of the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment. It is also possible to apply to the embodiment.
As in the case of the first embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the second embodiment includes a big prize opening unit 40, and the big prize opening unit 40 is the same as that of the first embodiment. As in the case, the sorting device 10 is attached. More specifically, the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the structure of the sorting apparatus 10 in the second embodiment will be described.
It should be noted that various modifications described above for the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment. Further, a part of the configuration or control of the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment, and the part of the configuration or control of the second embodiment can be applied to the first embodiment. It is also possible to apply to the configuration of the embodiment.

[Structure / Function of Sorting Device 10 According to Second Embodiment]
32, 33, and 34 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 32A is a perspective view from above illustrating the configuration of the sorting device 10, and FIG. 32B is the support of the first elevating member 32 included in the sorting device 10. It is a perspective view explaining the part 32b. FIG. 33 is a perspective view from below, and FIG. 34 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the sorting apparatus 10.
In addition, in the configuration of the distribution device 10 according to the second embodiment (see FIGS. 32 to 37), the mounting unit 31 described later is the configuration of the distribution device 10 according to the first embodiment (FIG. 28 to FIG. 31)).

  As shown in FIG. 32A and FIG. 34, the sorting apparatus 10 includes a mounting portion 31 configured to receive a game ball that falls and to be temporarily mounted. The mounting portion 31 is formed by a first elevating member 32, a second elevating member 33, and a third elevating member 34 that are raised and lowered (moved up and down) with respect to the plane 30 a included in the main body of the sorting apparatus 10. Hereinafter, the first elevating member 32, the second elevating member 33, and the third elevating member 34 may be referred to as elevating members 32-34.

  More specifically, each of the elevating members 32 to 34 is formed in an arc shape in plan view and has wall portions 32a, 33a, 34a having inner peripheral surfaces, and inner peripheral surface sides of the wall portions 32a, 33a, 34a. And support portions 32b, 33b, and 34b that are spaced apart from the wall portions 32a, 33a, and 34a. The wall portion 32a and the support portion 32b are formed integrally with each other, the wall portion 33a and the support portion 33b are formed integrally with each other, and the wall portion 34a and the support portion 34b are formed integrally with each other. In the present embodiment, each of the elevating members 32 to 34 is composed of the same component.

The heights of the wall portions 32a to 34a (the vertical dimension) and the heights of the support portions 32b to 34b are different from each other. That is, the height of the wall portions 32a to 34a is higher than that of the support portions 32b to 34b.
And the outer diameter of the virtual circumferential surface comprised by the combination of the inner peripheral surface which each of wall part 32a-34a of the raising / lowering members 32-34 has is larger than the outer diameter of a game ball. Therefore, it is possible to receive a game ball by the inner peripheral surfaces of the walls 32a to 34a.
Thus, the region for the placement unit 31 to receive the game ball is configured by the inner peripheral surfaces of the wall portions 32 a to 34 a of the elevating members 32 to 34.

The support portions 32b to 34b which are lower than the height of the wall portions 32a to 34a support the game balls received by the placement portion 31. That is, each of the support portions 32b to 34b can come into contact with the lower side of the game ball (the southern hemisphere side when compared to the earth). When the game ball comes into contact with any of the support portions 32b to 34b, the game ball is supported at three points.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 32 (b), the arc-shaped upper surface of the support portion 32b has a contact surface C1 that contacts the lower side of the game ball and a non-contact surface that does not contact the lower side of the game ball. C2 is formed. The contact surface C1 referred to here is located at the approximate center of the arcuate upper surface in plan view of the support portions 32b to 34b, and is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the non-contact surfaces C2. The contact surface C1 is formed so as to correspond to the spherical surface of the game ball, and is formed to be inclined.

The elevating members 32 to 34 described above are moved up and down when the driving force of the elevating drive unit (not shown) is transmitted. Accordingly, when the first elevating member 32 moves up and down, the wall portion 32a and the support portion 32b move up and down, when the second elevating member 33 moves up and down, the wall portion 33a and the support portion 33b move up and down, and the third elevating member 34 moves up and down. The wall part 34a and the support part 34b move up and down by moving up and down.
Each of the elevating members 32 to 34 can be moved up and down independently of each other. For example, each of the elevating members 32 to 34 can be moved in the same direction or different directions, and any one or only two of the elevating members 32 to 34 can be moved.

Thus, it can be said that the elevating members 32 to 34 of the sorting apparatus 10 are movable bodies that sort game balls.
Note that each of the elevating members 32 to 34 in the present embodiment only moves up and down with respect to the main body of the sorting apparatus 10 and does not rotate with respect to the main body. Further, the round start gates 141 to 143 and the detachment holes 144 to 146 do not rotate with respect to the main body.

More specifically, the elevating members 32 to 34 include a first position (a protruding state) in which the support portions 32 b to 34 b protrude with respect to the plane 30 a and a second position in which the support portions 32 b to 34 b are embedded in the plane 30 a. Either the position (retracted state) can be selectively switched. In the state illustrated in FIGS. 32A and 33, the first elevating member 32 and the second elevating member 33 are in the first position, and the third elevating member 34 is in the second position.
Note that notches corresponding to the shapes of the wall portions 32 a to 34 a and the support portions 32 b to 34 b of the elevating members 32 to 34 are formed on the plane 30 a of the sorting device 10.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the elevating members 32 to 34 are configured integrally with the wall portions 32a to 34a and the support portions 32b to 34b, but the wall portion 32a is a member different from the support portion 32b. It is also conceivable that the wall portion 33a is formed of a member different from the support portion 33b, and the wall portion 34a is formed of a member different from the support portion 34b.
In this case, the walls 32a to 34a and the support portions 32b to 34b can be moved up and down at different timings. For example, after setting the direction in which the game ball of the placement unit 31 rolls by raising and lowering the walls 32a to 34a, the game ball is raised by raising any of the support units 32b to 34b to change the placement state of the game ball. A control example that allows the sphere to start rolling can be considered.

  Moreover, the modification which abbreviate | omits the support parts 32b-34b which the raising / lowering members 32-34 of this Embodiment have is also considered. In such a case, the game ball received by the placement unit 31 is directly supported by the flat surface 30 a of the sorting device 10. In such a case, for example, a configuration example in which the plane 30a that supports the game ball is inclined so that the game ball can easily start rolling due to the weight of the game ball, or a wall portion of any protruding lifting member 32 to 34 is provided. It is conceivable to adopt a control example in which 32a to 34a are tilted so as to push a game ball.

As shown in FIG. 34, the placement unit 31 of the sorting apparatus 10 is disposed so as to be surrounded by the round start gates 141 to 143 and the misalignment holes 144 to 146.
Note that the game ball received by the placement unit 31 of the sorting apparatus 10 is a right-hand hit toward the game area 111 and flows down (see FIG. 1). Moreover, the raising / lowering members 32-34 which comprise the mounting part 31 are formed with the transparent member which the inside of the distribution apparatus 10 makes visible from a player.

Further, as shown in FIG. 32A and FIG. 34, the sorting apparatus 10 includes a first guide portion 35 extending from the placement portion 31 side to the first gate 141 for round start, and the placement portion 31 side. To the second gate 142 for round start, and a third guide portion 37 extending from the placement portion 31 to the third gate 143 for round start.
In other words, the first guide part 35 extends in the direction of the placement part 31 from the first gate 141 for round start. The second guide portion 36 extends from the second round start gate 142 toward the placement portion 31, and the third guide portion 37 extends from the round start third gate 143 toward the placement portion 31. Yes. Hereinafter, the first guide part 35, the second guide part 36, and the third guide part 37 may be referred to as guide parts 35 to 37.

In these guide portions 35 to 37, a guide path that is inclined is formed by a concave portion that dents the flat surface 30 a of the sorting device 10 (see FIG. 35A), but protrudes upward from the flat surface 30 a. A modified example in which the guide path is configured by the two convex-shaped portions to be considered is also conceivable.
Moreover, the modification which the distribution apparatus 10 is not provided with the guide parts 35-37 at all, and the modification provided with either one or two of the guide parts 35-37 are also considered.

  More specifically, in the first guide portion 35, the game ball rolling from the placement portion 31 toward the round start first gate 141 passes through the round start first gate 141 without entering the release holes 144, 146. It works to make it easier. In addition, the second guide portion 36 makes it easier for a game ball rolling from the placement portion 31 toward the round start second gate 142 to pass through the round start second gate 142 without entering the separation holes 144, 145. Acts as follows. Further, the third guide portion 37 makes it easier for a game ball rolling from the placement portion 31 toward the round start third gate 143 to pass through the round start third gate 143 without entering the disengagement holes 145 and 146. Acts as follows.

Further, as shown in FIG. 32 (a), FIG. 33 and FIG. 34, the sorting apparatus 10 has a wall 38 formed so as to surround the round start gates 141 to 143 and the off holes 144 to 146. Yes. The wall portion 38 is formed so as to surround each of the round start gates 141 to 143, but the wall portion 38 that makes it difficult for a game ball from the placement portion 31 to enter the holes 144 to 146. It is also conceivable to make the shape.
The wall portion 38 is formed of a transparent member that enables the inside of the sorting device 10 to be visually recognized by the player.

It should be noted that the elevating members 32 to 34 adopt a structure that does not block the round start gates 141 to 143 and the detachment holes 144 to 146 regardless of the first position or the second position.
In addition, in the present embodiment, the game ball received by the placement unit 31 has a possibility of entering any one of the round start gates 141 to 143 and the slip holes 144 to 146, and the round start gate 141. A structure that allows a ball to be reliably entered by any one of ˜143 is adopted.

Next, the distribution of the distribution device 10 will be described more specifically.
FIG. 35 is a diagram for explaining the distribution function of the distribution apparatus 10. More specifically, FIG. 35 is a longitudinal sectional view for explaining the sorting function of the sorting apparatus 10, and shows a longitudinal section illustrating a case of cutting by the placement unit 31 of the sorting apparatus 10 in the state shown in FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG. 35A is a longitudinal sectional view of the sorting apparatus 10, and FIG. 35B is a longitudinal section for explaining the operation of the support portions 32b, 33b, and 34b of the elevating members 32 to 34 included in the sorting apparatus 10. FIG.
As described above, in the sorting apparatus 10, each of the elevating members 32 to 34 configuring the placement unit 31 can be moved up and down independently. That is, the elevating members 32 to 34 do not rotate with respect to the round start gates 141 to 143 as the distribution destinations, and the elevating members 32 to 34 are in the retracted state with the members that are in the protruding state. The game balls of the placement unit 31 are distributed to any one of the round start gates 141 to 143 by arbitrarily combining the members of the second position.

In the sorting apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 35A, the first elevating member 32 and the second elevating member 33 are in the first position (projecting state), and the third elevating member 34 is in the second position (retracted state). It is. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 35 (b), the game balls of the placement portion 31 are moved from the bottom by the support portion 32b of the first elevating member 32 and the support portion 33b of the second elevating member 33. It is point-supported. In other words, the game ball of the placement portion 31 is not supported by the support portion 34 b of the third elevating member 34.
Here, if the game ball of the placement unit 31 is supported at three points by the support units 32b to 34b, the center of gravity position of the game ball is surrounded by the support units 32b to 34b and the balance is maintained. However, if the placement state of the game ball is changed so that the two-point support by the support portions 32b and 33b is changed from the three-point support, the game ball loses balance as shown in FIG. Thereby, the game ball of the mounting portion 31 starts to roll away from the support portions 32b and 33b due to the mutual positions of the support portion 32b and the support portion 33b and the center of gravity of the game ball.
Thus, in the case shown in FIG. 35, the game ball of the placement unit 31 advances in the direction of the third gate 143 for starting the round (see FIG. 32). If it adds, the support parts 32b-34b are preventing the ball stop.

The relationship between the raising / lowering positions of the raising / lowering members 32 to 34 and the distribution destination will be described.
FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining the distribution function of the distribution device 10, and FIGS. 36 (a), (b), and (c) are plan views showing a case where game balls are distributed by the distribution device 10.
In the case of FIG. 36A where the second elevating member 33 and the third elevating member 34 are in the first position (projecting state) and the first elevating member 32 is in the second position (retracted state), The game balls are guided to the first gate 141 for round start by the first guide unit 35.
Similarly, in the case of FIG. 36B in which the first elevating member 32 and the third elevating member 34 are in the first position (projecting state) and the second elevating member 33 is in the second position (retracted state). The game ball is guided to the round start second gate 142 by the second guide 36. Further, in the case of FIG. 36C in which the first elevating member 32 and the second elevating member 33 are in the first position (projecting state) and the third elevating member 34 is in the second position (retracted state). The game ball is guided to the third gate 143 for starting a round by the third guide unit 37.

  As described above, in the sorting apparatus 10, the raising / lowering operations of the elevating members 32 to 34 are performed by the first round start gate 141, the release hole 144, the round start second gate 142, the release hole 145, and the round start third gate 143. In the present embodiment, the same movement is performed in the clockwise direction in plan view so that the distribution destination changes in the order of the off-hole 146. In other words, as shown in FIG. 36, the elevating members 32 to 34 make it easier for the game balls of the placement unit 31 to pass through the round start gates 141 to 143 and to enter the slip holes 144 to 146. Move like this.

FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining the sorting function of the sorting apparatus 10, and FIGS. 37A and 37B are perspective views for explaining the lifting and lowering states of the lifting members 32 to 34 different from the case of FIG. 36. It is.
In the case shown in (a) of FIG. 37, all of the elevating members 32 to 34 are in the first position (projecting state), and the function of distributing to the round start gates 141 to 143 cannot be exhibited.
In other words, the sorting by the sorting apparatus 10 is performed in the order of (a) to (c) in FIG. 36, and control is performed so that the state of (a) in FIG. That is, the state of FIG. 37 (a) is shifted to the state of FIG. 36 (a), and then the state of FIG. 37 (a) is restored. Then, the state shifts to the state of FIG. 36B, returns to the state of FIG. 37A, then shifts to the state of FIG. 36B, and the state of FIG. Return to. With this as one cycle, this cycle is repeated.

More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 37 (b), the second elevating member 33 is in the first position (projecting state), and the first elevating member 32 and the third elevating member 34 are in the second position (retracted). State). For this reason, there is a possibility that the game ball of the placement unit 31 may enter the disengagement hole 146 due to the interaction with the support part 33b of the second elevating member 33, and may enter the first gate 141 for the round start. In addition, there is a possibility of entering the third gate 143 for starting a round. That is, the distribution destination is not specified more clearly than in the case of FIG.
By placing the sorting device 10 in an indeterminate state that does not specify such a clear sorting destination, it is possible to give the player a thrilling feeling and enhance the fun of the game. Therefore, a control example in which the state shifts to the state shown in FIG.

  In the case shown in FIG. 37 (c), all of the elevating members 32 to 34 are in the second position (retracted state), and if there is a game ball on the mounting portion 31, the game ball will not roll. There is a possibility of staying. Even if the player rolls, the sorting destination is not set, and there is a possibility that the ball will enter any of the round start gates 141 to 143 or the off holes 144 to 146.

Here, in the sorting apparatus 10, in addition to the control that does not always change the elevating speed of the elevating members 32 to 34 and the duration when all the elevating members 32 to 34 are in the first position (projecting state) as the same value, A control example is also conceivable in which the value of the ascending / descending speed and the value of the duration are determined according to predetermined conditions. Examples of the predetermined condition include a gaming state, a pre-determination result, and a rotational speed lottery associated with winning. That is, there may be a case in which the lifting speed and duration of the lifting members 32 to 34 are set to values different from the usual values depending on the gaming state, the pre-determination result, the result of the rotation speed lottery associated with winning.
In addition, from the player's point of view, when the elevating members 32 to 34 move up and down slowly, or when the entire protruding state (see FIG. 37 (a)) continues for a long time, the round starts at the timing of launching the game ball. It can be said that it is easy to enter any one of the gates 141 to 143. That is, it becomes easy to aim at what the player desires among the round start gates 141 to 143.
In addition to the control example in which the sorting by the sorting apparatus 10 is performed in the order of (a) to (c) in FIG. 36, there is also a control example in which any of (a) to (c) in FIG. 36 is performed in any order. Conceivable.

  As described above, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the sorting apparatus 10 includes the round start gates 141 to 143 that are a plurality of openings through which the game balls can pass, and the movable piece. The game ball released by the operation of 44 is received and distributed to any one of the round start gates 141 to 143.

[Third Embodiment]
A third embodiment will be described. Since the third embodiment has the same configuration / function as the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same configuration, and the description and illustration of the common configuration / function are used. May be omitted. It is conceivable to apply the various modifications described above with respect to the first embodiment and the second embodiment to the third embodiment. Further, a part of the configuration or control of the third embodiment can be applied to the first embodiment or the second embodiment, and the first embodiment or the second embodiment. It is also possible to apply a part of the configuration or control of the embodiment to the third embodiment.
The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the third embodiment includes the big prize opening unit 40 as in the case of the first embodiment.

[Large winning unit 40 according to the third embodiment]
First, the special winning opening unit 40 according to the third embodiment will be described.
FIG. 38 is a view for explaining a special winning opening unit 40 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 28 for explaining the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 38, the special prize opening unit 40 according to the third embodiment includes a providing device 50. The providing device 50 includes a slope 41 located below the grand prize winning opening 125, two hollow portions 42A and 42B into which game balls enter, and a wall portion 43A and a hollow portion 42B disposed corresponding to the hollow portion 42A. And two movable pieces 44 disposed in each of the two recessed portions 42A and 42B.
The slope 41, the two recessed portions 42A and 42B, the two wall portions 43A and 43B, and the movable piece 44 can adopt the same configuration as that described in the first embodiment.
In addition, the overhang | projection part 47 is formed with respect to each of the hollow parts 42A and 42B.

The two depressions 42A and 42B will be further described. With respect to the rolling direction of the game ball rolling on the slope 41, one depression 42B is located on the downstream side of the other depression 42A. Due to this relative positional relationship, when one game ball is accommodated in the recess 42A on the upstream side (the right side in FIG. 38) by rebounding on the rebound surface of the wall 43A, the other ball game balls are upstream. 42A cannot be entered, but rebounds at the rebound surface of the wall 43B and is accommodated in the recess 42B on the downstream side (left side in FIG. 38).
Depending on the situation, in addition to the case where the game ball is accommodated in both the upstream recess 42A and the downstream recess 42B, only one of the upstream recess 42A and the downstream recess 42B is stored. A case where a game ball is accommodated is also conceivable.

  In addition, the same control as that of the first embodiment by the lamp control unit 320 (see FIG. 3) can be adopted for the control of the two movable pieces 44 disposed in the two depressions 42A and 42B. The operation of the two movable pieces 44 is at the same timing. That is, at the timing when the movable piece 44 operates in the upstream depression 42A, the movable piece 44 operates in the downstream depression 42B. Therefore, when game balls are accommodated in both the upstream recess 42A and the downstream recess 42B, two game balls are provided to the sorting device 10. A control example in which there is a time difference between the start of operation of the two movable pieces 44 is also conceivable.

As in the case of the first embodiment, the distribution device 10 is attached to the big prize opening unit 40. The distribution device 10 employs a configuration different from that in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.
Next, a distribution device 10 according to the third embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 38, the sorting apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment includes a round start first gate 141 through which a game ball from the upstream recess 42A can pass, and a downstream recess 42B. And a second gate 142 for starting a round through which the game balls can pass. The first round start gate 141 is provided with a first round start switch 225 (see FIG. 3), and the second round start gate 142 is provided with a second round start switch 226 (see FIG. 3). It is arranged.
As described above, the sorting apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment is different from the case of the first embodiment (see FIG. 30) and the case of the second embodiment (see FIG. 34). The third gate 143 is not provided. For this reason, the sorting apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment does not include the round start third switch 227 (see FIG. 3).
Hereinafter, the first round start gate 141 and the second round start gate 142 may be referred to as round start gates 141 and 142. The round start first switch 225 and the round start second switch 226 may be referred to as round start switches 225 and 226.

More specifically, when the round start switches 225 and 226 detect that the game ball has passed the round start gates 141 and 142, the game control unit 200 sets the number of rounds accordingly.
More specifically, the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx is controlled to be different from each other depending on which of the round start switches 225 and 226 detects the passage of the game ball (see FIG. 7-2). . In other words, if the first switch 225 is the round start first switch 225, either 16 or 4 is set as the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx by lottery. If the round start second switch 226 is used, the initial value of the round number maximum value Rx is set. A value of 10 is set.

  Various modifications are conceivable. As an example, when the round start switches 225 and 226 detect that a game ball has passed through the round start gates 141 and 142, a lot number lottery is performed in which a plurality of preset round numbers are selected by lottery. Is to do. The ratio of the number of rounds selected in such round number lottery is set to be different between the case of the first round start switch 225 and the case of the second round start switch 226.

The distribution device 10 includes a tray 51 that receives the game balls provided to the distribution device 10, and an out port 52 that discharges the game balls received by the tray 51.
To explain further, the game ball provided from the recess 42A on the upstream side may or may not pass through the first round start gate 141. In addition, the game ball provided from the indented portion 42A on the upstream side is discharged from the tray 51 to the out port 52 or from the ball outlet 46 of the sorting device 10 regardless of whether or not the first gate 141 for round start has passed. Or returned to the game area 111 (see FIG. 1).
In addition, the game ball provided from the depression 42B on the downstream side may or may not pass through the second round start gate 142. In addition, the game ball provided from the depression 42B on the downstream side is discharged from the tray 51 to the out port 52 or from the ball outlet 46 of the sorting device 10 regardless of whether or not the round start second gate 142 has passed. Or returned to the game area 111 (see FIG. 1).
Note that the broken lines illustrated in the distribution device 10 in FIG. 38 schematically illustrate the flow of game balls in the distribution device 10 described above.

  Here, the pachinko gaming machine 100 (see FIG. 1) is an example of a gaming machine. The game area 111 (see FIG. 1) is an example of the game area. The distribution device 10 (see FIG. 29, FIG. 32 or FIG. 39) is an example of distribution means, the provision device 50 (see FIG. 28) is an example of the provision device, and the slope 41 (see FIG. 28) is a slope. The depression 42 (see FIG. 28) is an example of a stop space, and the overhang 47 (see FIG. 28) is an example of a limiting unit.

  As described above, in the first to third embodiments described above, the game ball launched into the game area 111 is set in advance in the recess 42, and the player can play the game ball in the sorting device 10 at an arbitrary timing. Therefore, it is possible to easily supply game balls with good timing to the sorting device 10. In addition, since the number of game balls set in the recess portion 42 is limited by the overhang portion 47, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of ball clogging due to the game ball set in the recess portion 42.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Sorting device, 41 ... Slope, 42 ... Indentation part, 47 ... Overhang | projection part, 50 ... Provision apparatus, 100 ... Pachinko gaming machine, 111 ... Game area, 161 ... Production button

A gaming machine to which the present invention is applied is a gaming machine 100 in which a game ball is launched into the game area 111 and a game is played. The game machine 111 receives the game ball and distributes the game ball, and the game area 111. A stop space 42 is formed, which is a space for temporarily stopping game balls launched in the game, and a game ball temporarily stopped in the stop space 42 is provided to the distribution means 10 in a predetermined case. A device 50 and a forming portion 47 formed on the entrance side of the stopping space 42 so as to affect the behavior of the game ball about to enter the stopping space 42 of the providing device 50 with respect to the stopping space 42. wherein the forming unit 47, in addition to the gaming ball the retention space 42 to flow down the outside of the retention space 42 in the retention space 42 in a state where a game ball is staying in the providing apparatus 50 At the position where the other game balls are biased with respect to the game balls in the stop space 42 so that the other game balls falling on the game balls in the stop space 42 are dropped due to their own weight. is characterized in that characterized that you limit the other game balls to ride the game ball of the retention space 42.
Here, the forming section 4 7, due to the contact with the game balls to the other game balls rolling slope 41 disposed in the game area 111 is temporarily stopping the retention space 42 of the providing apparatus 50 Thus, the entry into the stop space 42 is restricted so as not to stop on the slope 41. In this case, it is possible to more reliably prevent the occurrence of clogging.

Claims (2)

A gaming machine in which a game ball is launched into a game area and a game is played,
A distribution means for accepting a game ball and distributing the game ball;
A stop space is formed, which is a space for temporarily stopping game balls launched into the game area, and a game ball temporarily stopped in the stop space is provided to the distribution means in a predetermined case. Equipment,
A restriction unit that restricts another game ball that flows down outside the stop space from entering the stop space in a state where the game ball is stopped in the stop space of the providing device;
A gaming machine comprising:   The restriction unit does not stop on the slope due to the other game ball rolling on the slope arranged in the game area coming into contact with the game ball temporarily stopped in the stop space of the providing device. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further restricting entry into the stop space.

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