JP2015164644A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance interest in a game machine that starts a specific game by a trigger of a game ball's passing through a specific area after the ball has entered a variable ball entrance port.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: a variable ball entrance port that becomes a ball entry inhibiting state when closed and becomes a ball entry allowing state when opened; a specific area through which the game ball that has entered the variable ball entrance port can pass; specific game execution means for executing a specific game when a game ball passes through the specific area; and a movable part for changing a possibility for the game ball that has entered the variable ball entrance port to pass through the specific area. The movable part changes between a first state where a possibility for a game ball to pass through the specific area is high and a second state where a possibility for a game ball to pass through the specific area is low by a trigger of the variable ball entrance port's becoming a ball entry allowing state. A first opening/closing mode and a second opening/closing mode are provided. In the former mode, when the movable part is in the first state the time when the variable ball entrance port becomes a ball entry allowing state is a prescribed time, and in the latter mode, when the movable part is the first state the time when the variable ball entrance port becomes a ball entry allowing state is shorter than the prescribed time.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  In the gaming machine, a big hit game and a small hit game are provided, and a game ball that has entered the variable entrance during the small hit game passes through a specific area in the variable entrance, and is promoted from a small hit to a big hit, A gaming machine that starts a big hit game has been proposed (see Patent Document 1). According to this configuration, the big hit is made through the first stage lottery triggered by the game ball entering the starting opening and the second stage lottery triggered by the game ball entering the specific area in the variable entrance. Can be generated.

JP 2011-10741 A

  However, as described in Patent Document 1, a configuration in which a big hit game is started when a game ball that has entered the variable entrance during a small hit game passes through a specific area is installed in many game machines and is widely known. As a result, it is difficult to further improve the game entertainment.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to enhance the gaming interest in a gaming machine that starts a specific game when a game ball that has entered a variable entrance has passed a specific area.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides:
A variable entrance opening that allows the game ball to enter the inaccessible state by closing, and enters the enterable state to allow the game ball to enter by opening,
Open / close mode setting means for setting the open / close mode of the variable entrance,
A specific area through which a game ball entering the variable entrance can pass;
Specific game execution means for executing a specific game advantageous to a player when a game ball passes through the specific area;
A movable part that changes the possibility that a game ball that has entered the variable entry port passes through the specific area by operating in a predetermined manner;
With
The movable portion performs an operation in a predetermined manner when the variable entrance is ready to enter, so that the game ball entering the variable entrance enters the specific area. A first state that has a high possibility of passing, and a second state in which a game ball that has entered the variable entrance has a low possibility of passing through the specific area,
As the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance, a first opening / closing mode in which the time during which the variable entrance is ready to enter when the movable portion is in the first state is a predetermined time, and the movable portion is the first And a second opening / closing mode in which the time during which the variable entrance is ready to enter in a state is shorter than the predetermined time.

  According to the configuration of the present invention, if the first opening / closing mode in which the variable entrance is ready to enter in accordance with the first state in which the movable part easily enters the game ball into the specific area, It is possible to increase the possibility that a game ball entering from the variable entrance will pass through the specific area. In addition, the second opening / closing mode in which the period during which the variable entrance is in a state where it is possible to enter the ball in accordance with the first state in which the movable part easily enters the game ball into the specific area is shorter than the first opening / closing mode. If it sets, possibility that the game ball which entered from the variable entrance may pass a specific field can be made lower than a 1st opening and closing mode. Thereby, “the possibility of the game ball passing through the specific area can be maximized or reduced by setting the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance based on the mode of operation of the movable portion. ”Can be realized, and the gaming interest can be enhanced.

  In addition, as a movable part, the member which is provided in a variable entrance and gives a change to the guidance mode (guidance route) of the game ball to a specific field can be illustrated. In addition, a plurality of opening / closing modes are set as the opening / closing modes of the variable entrance, and the plurality of opening / closing modes include the period during which the entrance is possible, the time when the entrance is possible, and the number of times when the entrance is possible. At least one of them is considered to be different. Thereby, even if the mode of operation of the movable part is the same, the possibility that the game ball can enter the specific area when the variable entrance is ready to enter is different. In addition, the mode of operation of the movable part (predetermined mode) includes a mode in which a pattern composed of a stopped state and an operating state is repeated at a predetermined cycle, a mode in which a pattern composed only of the operating state is repeated at a predetermined cycle, and the like. In addition, as the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance, a mode in which the number of times that the entrance is possible is set to 1 and a number of times that the entrance is possible by repeating the entrance enabled state and the entrance impossible state are plural. The mode of turning is exemplified.

Further, the present invention provides the above-described configuration,
In the first opening / closing mode, the period in which the entering is possible and the period in which the entering is possible in the second opening / closing mode are substantially the same period.

  As a result, it is possible to make the period during which the entry is possible, that is, the release period substantially the same period, so that the possibility of passing to a specific area is changed while equalizing the game profits such as prize balls that can be obtained by entering the ball. Can enhance the entertainment interests.

Further, the present invention provides the above-described configuration,
The movable portion is in the second state at the start of operation, and is in the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed,
In the first opening / closing mode, the variable entrance is opened and closed for a predetermined time, and when the movable portion is in the first state after a predetermined closing time has elapsed, the variable entrance is also adjusted. Is configured to be opened for a time longer than the predetermined time.

  Thus, after performing the opening operation of the variable entrance for triggering the movable part to start operation in the second state, the movable part is once closed and the movable part is in the first state (the state where it is easy to enter the specific region). ), The opening operation is performed again. Thereby, the time for which the period during which the movable part is in the first state and the period during which the variable entrance is in the entrance-enabled state can be made as long as possible. As a result, it is possible to realize the gameability that the possibility of passing through the specific area can be maximized by efficiently using the opening time of the variable entrance. Further, in order to make as long as possible the overlap time between the period in which the movable part is in the first state and the period in which the variable entrance is ready for entry, it is preferable that the first opening that triggers the operation of the movable part is performed. It is desirable to set the opening time (the period during which entry is possible) to an extremely short time (for example, about 0.5 seconds) that makes it difficult for a game ball to enter (for example, “short opening”, “instantaneous”). Also referred to as "opening and closing"). Moreover, the closing time after short opening can be made longer than the short opening time (predetermined time). In addition, opening longer than a predetermined time that is performed when entering the first state is also referred to as “long opening”. As a mode of operation of the movable part, it is specified that the second state is set at the start of the operation and is set to the first state after a lapse of a predetermined time, but after that, the state is changed to the second state and the first state in a predetermined mode. The operation is terminated when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

In addition, related inventions related to the present invention are:
A variable entrance that can be changed between a state where a game ball cannot enter and a state where a game ball can enter,
Open / close mode setting means for setting the open / close mode of the variable entrance,
A specific area through which a game ball entering the variable entrance can pass;
Specific game execution means for executing a specific game advantageous to a player when a game ball passes through the specific area;
A movable part that changes the possibility that a game ball that has entered the variable entry port passes through the specific area by operating in a predetermined manner;
With
The movable part is configured to execute an operation according to a predetermined mode when the variable entrance is in a state where the entrance is possible.
As an opening / closing mode of the variable entrance, it has a plurality of opening / closing modes in which at least one of a period when entering a ball is possible or a time when entering a ball is possible,
The possibility of the game ball passing through the specific area varies depending on which one of the plurality of opening / closing modes is executed.

  According to the configuration of the present invention, as the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance, the variable entrance can be made in accordance with the state in which the movable part easily enters the game ball into the specific area (also referred to as “first state”). If the opening and closing mode is set so that the mouth can enter, the possibility that the game ball entering from the variable entrance will pass through the specific area can be increased, and the movable part can enter the specific area into the specific area. If you set an open / close mode that allows the variable entrance to enter the ball in a state where it is difficult to make a ball (also referred to as “second state”), the game ball that entered from the variable entrance is specified The possibility of passing through the area can be reduced. This makes it possible to maximize or reduce the possibility that a game ball will pass through a specific area by performing an opening / closing operation of the variable entrance according to the mode of operation of the movable part. It is possible to realize a new gameability that can be performed, and to enhance the gaming interest. In addition, it is possible to realize a new game characteristic that “the possibility that a game ball passes through a specific area changes depending on the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance”, and it is possible to enhance the game interest.

  According to the configuration of the present invention described above, the gaming interest can be enhanced in a gaming machine that starts a specific game when a game ball that has entered the variable entrance has passed a specific area.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a front view of a central apparatus. It is a perspective view of a central device lower part. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the operation | movement aspect of a distribution member, and the opening / closing aspect of a special entrance. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of an effect display apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a small hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows processing at the time of big hit game end. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the operation | movement aspect of the distribution member of 2nd Example, and the opening / closing aspect of a special entrance. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the operation | movement aspect of the distribution member of 3rd Example, and the opening / closing aspect of a special entrance. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation | variation display process of 3rd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the small hit game process of 3rd Example.

(First embodiment)
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 includes a game frame 2 and a game board 20. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. The game frame 2 includes an outer frame 3, a middle frame 4, a front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6, a lower plate portion 7, and the like. The middle frame 4 is not shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 5 is disposed on the front side.

  The outer frame 3 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The outer frame 3 is fixed to an installation site provided in the island facility of the pachinko hall and supports the gaming machine main body. The outer frame 3 includes an outer frame main body 3a configured by a substantially rectangular frame-shaped body, and a front plate portion 3b that covers a lower front portion of the outer frame main body 3a.

  The middle frame 4 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 4 is fitted inside the outer frame 3 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 3. The middle frame 4 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 5 are provided on the front side of the frame portion so as to overlap each other. On the lower side of the front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6 and a lower plate portion 7 are integrally provided. The lower plate portion is provided with a launching device 12 (see FIG. 7) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeding device (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launching device 12. . Below the right side of the front frame 5 is provided a locking device 5b for locking the front frame 5 when it is closed.

  The front frame 5 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 4 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 5 is made of plastic, and has an opening 5a for making the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 5a is mounted on the back surface of the front frame 5.

  A frame lamp portion 5c using LEDs or the like is provided around the opening 5a in the front frame 5. The frame lamp portion 5c is turned on / off or blinks according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

The upper plate 6 is provided below the opening 5 a in the front frame 5. The upper plate 6 is provided with a discharge port 6a for discharging game balls to be paid out as prize balls or rental balls. On the upper surface of the upper plate part 6, an effect button 8 is provided at the center and a CR operation part 9 is provided on the right side. The effect button 8 includes a middle button 8a, a left button 8b provided on the left side of the middle button 8a, and a right button 8c provided on the right side of the middle button 8a.

  The CR operation unit 9 is used to operate the prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and includes a return button 9a for requesting the return of the prepaid card and the remaining frequency of the prepaid card. Is displayed, and a ball lending button 9c for requesting lending of game balls is provided.

  The lower plate part 7 is provided below the upper plate part 6 in the front frame 5. A discharge port 7 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 7 is provided at substantially the center of the lower plate portion 7. At the right end of the lower plate part 7, a firing handle 10 is provided for the player to operate the firing device 12. The firing handle 10 is provided with a touch switch 10a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 10, a launch stop switch 10b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 11a to 11d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 11 a to 11 d include upper speakers 11 a and 11 b provided on the upper part of the front frame 5 and lower speakers 11 c and 11 d provided on the front plate part 2 b below the front frame 5.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, the central device 100, the normal symbol operating gate 27, the start port 28, the big winning device 33, the left winning ports 34 and 35, the right winning ports 36 and 37, the first decorative member 50, and the second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 100 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. Here, the central apparatus 100 is demonstrated based on FIG. 3, FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a front view of the central device 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the central device 100 includes peripheral wall members 101, 102, 103, a sorting device 109, guide paths 110, 111, a game ball transfer device 112, and a special game device 113.

  The peripheral wall members 101, 102, and 103 are provided so as to protrude forward (player side) in the upper region of the central device 100. The first peripheral wall member 101 has a substantially inverted U shape when viewed from the front, and is disposed at the top of the central device 100. A second peripheral wall member 102 is provided at the lower left of the first peripheral wall member 101, and a third peripheral wall member 103 is provided at the lower right of the first peripheral wall member 101. The second peripheral wall member 102 is inclined from the upper right to the lower left, and the third peripheral wall member 103 is inclined from the upper left to the lower right.

A gap having a predetermined width (about 2 to 4 times the diameter of the game ball) is provided between the lower left end of the first peripheral wall member 101 and the right end of the second peripheral wall member 102, and the central device 100. Is constructed as a first special entrance 102 into which a game ball can be introduced. A gap having a predetermined width (about 2 to 4 times the diameter of the game ball) is also provided between the lower right end of the first peripheral wall member 101 and the left end of the third peripheral wall member 103, and the central device 100. Is configured as a second special entrance 105 into which a game ball can be introduced. In addition, a gap having a predetermined width (a width of about 3 to 5 times the diameter of the game ball) is provided between the right end portion of the second peripheral wall member 102 and the left end portion of the third peripheral wall member 103, so that the game ball The distribution unit 106 that distributes left and right is configured.

  Opening and closing members 107 and 108 are provided at the first special entrance 104 and the second special entrance 104, respectively. The opening / closing members 107 and 108 are constituted by substantially blade-like members, and are rotatable toward the outside of the central device 100 with their lower end portions as rotation axes. In other words, the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are turned upright about the rotation shaft at the lower end portion to be in an upright state and close the special entrance 104 and 105, and the outer side of the central device 100. Can be changed to an open state where the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened. The first opening / closing member 107 and the second opening / closing member 108 open and close simultaneously in conjunction with each other.

  When the opening / closing members 107 and 108 are closed, the special entrances 104 and 105 are closed, and the game balls flowing down the game area 21 enter the central device 100 via the special entrances 104 and 105. Is impossible to enter. On the other hand, when the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are in the open posture, the special ball entrances 104 and 105 are opened, and the ball can enter the central device 100 via the special ball entrances 104 and 105. It becomes a state. When the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are in the open state, the inclined surfaces of the opening and closing members 107 and 108 constitute guiding surfaces for guiding the game balls to the special entrances 104 and 105.

  These open / close members 107 and 108 are configured to open and close by open / close member solenoids 107c and 108c (see FIG. 7). The opening / closing control of the opening / closing members 107 and 108 is configured to be performed by a CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 described later. As will be described later, when the small hit game is started, the opening and closing members 107 and 108 are configured to open and close according to a predetermined opening and closing pattern. The opening and closing pattern of the special entrances 104 and 105 by the opening and closing members 107 and 108 will be described in detail later.

  The sorting unit 106 is provided with a sorting member 109. The distribution member 109 is a device that changes the movement of the game ball that has entered from the special entrances 104 and 105. The distribution member 109 of this embodiment is a seesaw-type distribution device composed of a single plate-shaped member having a plate surface on which a game ball can roll, and the game ball can be moved rightward or leftward. It is configured to distribute the crab. The sorting member 109 is swingable, and both ends are movable (swingable) in opposite directions around the rotation shaft near the center by a sorting member solenoid 109c (see FIG. 7). .

  When the distribution member 109 is inclined in the right direction or the left direction, the distribution member 109 is inclined in the left direction and the first state in which the distribution member 109 is distributed to the first guide path 110 located in the lower right of the distribution member 109. Thus, it is possible to switch between the second state distributed to the second guide path 111 located at the lower left of the distribution member 109. As will be described later, in the first state where the game ball is distributed to the first guide route 110, the probability that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b (see FIG. 4) is a predetermined probability, and the second state is distributed to the second guide route 111. Then, the probability that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b (see FIG. 4) is lower than that in the first state. The sorting member 109 is configured to start operation in a predetermined operation pattern when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (start of the small hit game).

  The two guide paths 110 and 111 are configured as cylindrical members through which game balls can pass. The upper end openings of the guide paths 110 and 111 are located in the vicinity of the sorting member 109. The game balls distributed to the left side by the distribution member 109 enter the second guide path 111, pass through the inside of the second guide path 111, and are guided to the lower left of the central device 100. The game balls distributed to the right side by the distribution member 109 enter the first guide path 110, pass through the inside of the first guide path 110, and are guided to the lower right of the central device 100.

  Although not shown in FIG. 3, special entrance detection switches 104 s and 105 s (see FIG. 7) that detect the game balls distributed by the distribution unit 106 are provided at the most upstream part of the guide paths 110 and 111. Is provided. The second guidance path 111 is provided with a first special entrance detection switch 104s, and the first guidance path 110 is provided with a second special entrance detection switch 105s. These special entrance detection switches 104 s and 105 s can detect the game balls that have entered the special entrances 104 and 105, and the distribution members 109 can cause the game balls to enter any of the guide paths 110 and 111. It can detect whether it has been distributed.

  At the lowermost end of the central device 100, a game ball transfer device 112 is provided on the left side, and a special game device 113 is provided on the right side. Therefore, the game ball guided through the second guide path 111 is supplied to the game ball transfer device 112, and the game ball guided through the first guide path 110 is supplied to the special game device 113.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the game ball transfer device 112 and the special game device 113. The game ball transfer device 112 is configured to transfer the game ball to the special game device 113 or to discharge the game ball to the outside of the central device 100. The special gaming device 113 includes a specific area 113b and a non-specific area 113c, and is configured to start a big hit game when a game ball passes through the specific area 113b. The jackpot game will be described later.

  As described above, the game ball that has passed through the second guide path 111 is supplied to the game ball transfer device 112 and further supplied to the special game device 113 via the game ball transfer device 112. On the other hand, the game balls that have passed through the first guide path 110 are directly supplied to the special game device 113. Therefore, it is more likely that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b when the game ball passes through the first guide route 110 than when the game ball passes through the second guide route 111. More likely to start. Therefore, the second guidance route 111 constitutes a “normal route” with a low probability of starting a big hit game, and the first guidance route 110 constitutes a “special route” with a high probability of a big hit game being started.

  The game ball transfer device 112 includes a roller member 112a, a rolling part 112b, and an inclination guide part 112c. The roller member 112a has a cylindrical shape, and the axial direction is arranged horizontally. The roller member 112a is rotationally driven at a predetermined speed by a transfer roller motor 112m (see FIG. 7). The roller member 112a rotates so that the outer peripheral surface moves upward from the near side and moves to the far side. That is, when viewed from the right side in FIG. 4, the roller member 112a rotates in the clockwise direction.

  A rolling portion 112b is provided on the front side of the roller member 112a. The rolling part 112b is configured such that a game ball can roll on the upper surface, and has an inclined surface that is inclined downward toward the near side (player side) near the center. A plurality of suction pieces 112c are provided on the surface of the roller member 112a. The attracting piece 112c is composed of a permanent magnet that can attract a game ball.

  In the rolling part 112b, the game ball that has not been attracted to the attracting piece 112c falls downward from the front side of the central device 100 and is discharged from the central device 100. When the game ball located on the rolling part 112b is attracted to the attracting piece 112c, it is transferred to the inclination guiding part 112d provided on the back side of the roller member 112a as the outer surface of the roller member 112a rotates. The The tilt guiding portion 112d is tilted from the upper left to the lower right in FIG. 4, and the game ball supplied to the tilt guiding portion 112d is guided to the special game device 113 located on the right side of the game ball transfer device 112. The

  The special gaming device 113 is provided with a disk-shaped rotating body 113a. The rotating body 113a has a plate surface arranged horizontally, and is driven to rotate at a constant speed by a rotating body motor 113m (see FIG. 7). A plurality of recesses through which game balls can pass are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating body 113a. One recess among the plurality of recesses is configured as the specific region 113b, and the other three recesses are configured as the non-specific region 113c. The game ball supplied to the special game apparatus 113 passes through either the specific area 113b or the non-specific area 113c of the rotating body 113a and is discharged from the central apparatus 100.

  The central device 100 is provided with a specific area detection switch 114 (see FIG. 7) that detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 113b. Further, the central device 100 detects game balls discharged from the central device 100 without passing through the specific area 113b, that is, game balls that have passed through the non-specific area 113c or dropped by the game ball transfer device 112. A discharge detection switch 115 (see FIG. 7) is provided. The discharge detection switch 115 can detect that the game ball has been confirmed not to pass through the specific area 113b. As will be described later, when the game ball supplied to the special game device 113 passes through the specific area 113b, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 starts a big hit game.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the central device 100 is provided with an effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area V of the effect display device 25. Since the central device 100 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21, when a “left strike” is performed in which a game ball is launched aiming at the left side of the game area 21, the game ball is left of the central device 100. Can flow down. In addition, the upper side of the central device 100 allows a game ball to pass along the outer rail 22, and when a “right hit” is performed in which a game ball is launched aiming at the right side area of the game area 21, The game ball can pass through the upper side of the central device 100 and flow down to the right of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning device 33 is arranged below the central device 100 in the game area 21. The first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 100. Inside the normal symbol operating gate 27, there is provided a normal symbol operating gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27, the normal symbol starts to be changed.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first start port 28a is configured as a non-variable start port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, and the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). In this embodiment, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port, and the second starting port 28b is It functions as an ordinary electric accessory.

  Inside the start port 28, a start port detection switch 28s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the first start port 28a and the entrance of the game ball into the second start port 28b are detected. A start port detection switch 28t (see FIG. 7) and a start port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 7) for operating the pair of blade pieces are provided. When the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass through). Thus, the second start port 28b is in a closed state (first mode) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or the game ball cannot enter). On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is larger than usual, and the second start port 28b is likely to enter the game ball. Is in an open state (second mode) in which is increased. When a game ball enters one of the start ports 28a and 28b, a special symbol (to be described later) starts to be displayed in a variable manner.

  The big winning device 33 is disposed below the first start port 28a. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 7), and a big winning opening entrance detection switch 33s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the entrance of a game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs. By combining these LEDs, a normal symbol display device 51, a universal symbol hold display unit 52, a first special symbol hold display unit 53, and a second special symbol are provided. A hold display unit 54 is configured. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a first special symbol display device 61 and a second special symbol display device 62 are configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display device 51 is composed of one LED, and the normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display device 51, normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display device 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a display mode in which the normal symbol is hit or miss after a predetermined time. Design variation game is performed. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a preset hit display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a first opening pattern (short-time opening pattern) in which a first opening time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is set. ) Is set, and when the open time extension function is activated, a second open pattern (long open pattern) in which a second open time (for example, 4 seconds) longer than the first open time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  When the open time extension function is not in operation (during non-electric support), the game ball is efficiently inserted into the first start port 28a by setting the game ball launch method (launch mode) to “left-handed”. Can be balled. In addition, when the opening time extension function is activated (during the electric support state), the second starting port 28b that is opened in the second opening pattern is set by “right-handed” as the game ball firing method (launch mode). It is possible to efficiently enter the game balls.

  In this embodiment, a normal symbol success / failure determination value is prepared, and this normal symbol success / failure determination value is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27, and whether or not to activate the second start port 28b. It is used to determine whether or not the symbol is normal (whether to be in an open state). A “hit value” is set in advance for the normal symbol success / failure determination value, and a hit is determined when the acquired normal symbol success / failure determination value matches the winning value. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be winning, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure determination value does not match the winning value), the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. The Note that the normal symbol success / failure determination value can be generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a random number counter by software.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. With the holding of the normal symbol, the normal symbol appropriateness determination value is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  It should be noted that normal symbol determination, normal symbol stop symbol determination, normal symbol fluctuation pattern (variation time) setting, normal symbol hold storage and hold digestion are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. In this embodiment, two special symbols, a first special symbol and a second special symbol, are provided, and accordingly, a first special symbol display device 61 for displaying the first special symbol and a second special symbol are displayed. A second special symbol display device 62 is provided. In the following description, when “special symbol” is described, the description refers to both “first special symbol” and “second special symbol” unless otherwise specified. In addition, in the following description, when “special symbol reserve number” is described, unless otherwise specified, the description refers to both “first special symbol reserve number” and “second special symbol reserve number”. To do.

  Each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 is composed of seven LEDs, and special LEDs (first special symbol and second special symbol) are respectively displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of display modes can be displayed for each special symbol by a combination of turning on and off of each LED. And in the 1st special symbol display device 61 and the 2nd special symbol display device 62, a specific combination is set as a jackpot symbol among the combinations of the special symbols displayed by the combination of lighting and extinguishing of 7 LEDs respectively. The combination other than the big hit symbol is set as the small hit symbol or the off symbol. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  Based on the game ball entering the first starting port 28a, the first special symbol display device 61 starts the variable display of the first special symbol, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the first special symbol is a big hit symbol, a small hit symbol. Alternatively, the symbol variation game of the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols that are out of play is performed. Also, based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, the second special symbol display device 62 starts the variable display of the second special symbol, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the second special symbol is a big hit symbol, small The symbol variation game of the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed with either the winning symbol or the off symbol is performed.

  As described above, when the opening time extension function is not operated, a short time opening pattern is set as the opening pattern of the second start port 28b, and when the opening time extension function is operated, the opening pattern of the second start port 28b is set for a long time. An open pattern is set. For this reason, when the opening time extension function is not in operation, the game ball enters the second start port 28b at a low frequency (it is difficult to enter) (non-high frequency state), and the first special symbol It becomes a gaming state mainly composed of symbol variation games. In addition, when the open time extension function is activated, the game ball is frequently (easy to enter) in the game state (high frequency state) in which the game ball enters the second start port 28b, and the symbol variation game of the second special symbol. It becomes a gaming state based on.

  In the present embodiment, the determination value (acquisition information) for the first special symbol acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a, and acquired when the game ball enters the second start port 28b. The second special symbol determination value (acquired information) is provided. For the first special symbol determination value, a first special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not to execute the big hit game or the small hit game is determined, and a stop symbol of the first special symbol is determined. The first symbol determination value used for the big hit symbol determination to be performed and the first reach determination value used for the reach determination for determining whether or not to perform the reach effect by the symbol variation effect described later are included. Similarly, the determination value for the second special symbol includes the second special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not the big hit game or the small hit game is executed, and the stop of the second special symbol. A second symbol determination value used for jackpot symbol determination for determining a symbol and a second reach determination value used for reach determination for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect with a symbol variation effect described later are included. .

  Based on the game ball entering the first starting port 28a, a first special symbol success / failure determination value, a first symbol determination value, and a first reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is a main control. Is stored as a hold (first special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the unit 200. In addition, based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, and a second reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is It is stored as a hold (second special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The special symbol judgment value (special symbol success / failure judgment value, symbol judgment value, reach judgment value) is generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a software random number counter. can do.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The first special symbol hold display unit 53 and the second special symbol hold display unit 54 are each composed of two LEDs, and the number of holds can be set up to 4 each by combining the turn-off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Can be displayed. That is, the special symbol hold display units 53 and 54 have special symbol determination values (acquisition information) acquired by entering a game ball into the start port 28 (first start port 28a, second start port 28b). Storage information (holding information) indicating that it is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is displayed. This display of stored information corresponds to so-called “hold display”.

  The number of game balls that have entered the first starting port 28a can be held until the maximum number of reserved balls (four in this embodiment) is reached as the first special symbol holding number, and enters the second starting port 28b. The number of game balls that have been sphered can be held until the maximum number of reserved balls (four in this embodiment) is reached as the second special symbol hold number. For this reason, the total of the number of first special symbol reservations and the number of second special symbol reservations is eight at the maximum.

  The first special symbol hold number displayed on the first special symbol hold display unit 53 is acquired every time a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 ( This corresponds to the number (stored number) of first special symbol determination values (first special symbol success / failure determination value, first symbol determination value, first reach determination value) stored in the first reserved storage area. In the present embodiment, since the first symbol determination value and the first reach determination value are obtained together with the first special symbol determination value based on the game ball entering the first start port 28a, the first special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored first symbol determination values and first reach determination values. The first special symbol hold count is digested and decreased by one each time the first special symbol determination is made and the first special symbol variation display is started.

  The second special symbol hold number displayed on the second special symbol hold display unit 54 is acquired every time a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 ( This corresponds to the number (stored number) of second special symbol determination values (second special symbol success / failure determination value, second symbol determination value, second reach determination value) stored in the second reserved storage area). In the present embodiment, since the second symbol determination value and the second reach determination value are acquired together with the second special symbol success / failure determination value based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, the second special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored second symbol determination values and second reach determination values. The second special symbol hold count is digested each time the second special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the second special symbol is started, and decreases by one. On-hold storage and on-hold digestion of the first and second special symbols are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  When the special symbols (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) are stopped and displayed, and the symbol variation game is completed, the next symbol variation game can be executed. Then, the presence of one or more special symbol holds, the execution condition (symbol change start condition) of the special symbol change game is established, and the special symbol hold (memory information) is stored based on the special symbol hold (memory information) stored first. The symbols are displayed in a variable manner.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to perform a second special symbol priority variation process in which the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is preferentially executed over the symbol variation game of the first special symbol. That is, when both the number of the first special symbol hold and the number of the second special symbol hold are “1 or more”, the second special symbol is preferentially displayed in a variable manner over the first special symbol. The reservation of the symbol is preferentially consumed. When the first special symbol reservation count is “1 or more” and the second special symbol reservation count is “zero”, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed.

  The special symbol success / failure determination value is set with a winning value (big hit value and small hit value) for determining whether or not the game is successful, and is acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. When the special symbol success / failure judgment value matches the big hit value, it becomes “big hit”, when it does not match the big hit value and matches the small hit value, it becomes “small hit”, and when it does not match the big hit value and the small hit value It becomes "displacement". The first special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the first special symbol starts variable display, and the second special symbol correctness determination is performed when the second special symbol starts variable display. When a plurality of special symbol success / failure determination values are stored in the RAM of the main control unit 200, the special symbol success / failure determination is executed based on the special symbol success / failure determination value stored first.

  When it is determined that the first special symbol is determined to be a big hit, the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit. When the first special symbol is determined to be a small hit in the first special symbol success / failure determination, the first special symbol is determined to be a small hit symbol which is a display mode (second specific mode) indicating a small hit, and the first special symbol is determined. When it is determined that the symbol is unacceptable in the symbol determination, the first special symbol is determined to be a deviating symbol (non-specific mode) which is a display mode (a non-specific mode) indicating the decoupling. Similarly, if the second special symbol is determined to be a big hit in the second special symbol success / failure determination, the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 62 is a big win symbol that is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit ( When the second special symbol is determined to be a small hit in the second special symbol success / failure determination, the second special symbol is determined to be a small hit symbol which is a display mode (second specific mode) indicating the small hit. If it is determined that the second special symbol is determined to be out, the second special symbol is determined to be an out symbol (non-specific mode) which is a display mode (out mode) indicating the out status.

  The special symbol is configured to display a variation based on a predetermined variation pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol, and the contents of the later-described symbol variation effect (effect execution time, presence / absence of reach effect, etc.) are determined according to this variation time. The variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol is determined by variation pattern determination using a variation pattern determination value from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol validity determination is executed.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected in accordance with the gaming state (special symbol variation mode). In addition, each variation pattern table selected according to the gaming state is selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit and when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a small winner A small hit variation pattern table to be selected, and a loss variation pattern table selected when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not included. The deviation variation patterns stored in the deviation variation pattern table are “normal deviation variation pattern (reach variation variation pattern without reach)” in which the reach variation is not performed in the later-described symbol variation representation, and “reach is performed” in which the reach representation is performed. There is a “fluctuation variation pattern”. The normal deviation variation pattern is configured as a variation pattern with a shorter special symbol variation time than the reach deviation variation pattern. The reach variation variation pattern has a special symbol variation time longer than the normal variation variation pattern. It is configured as. The presence or absence of reach variation is determined by reach determination using the reach determination value acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28.

  First special symbol success / failure determination, second special symbol success / failure determination, determination of variation time (variation pattern) of first special symbol, determination of variation time (variation pattern) of second special symbol, stop of first special symbol Determination of symbol, determination of stop symbol of second special symbol, change display and stop display of first special symbol, change display and stop display of second special symbol, priority change of second special symbol will be described later. 200.

  Next, the small hit game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small hit symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a small hit symbol), the small hit game is Be started. The small hit game is performed by setting the small hit game flag to ON.

  With the start of the small hit game, the special entrances 104 and 105 (see FIG. 3) of the central device 100 start an opening / closing operation according to a predetermined opening / closing pattern. When the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, the game ball can enter the central device 100, and the game ball that has entered the central device 100 passes the specific area 113d (see FIG. 4). A big hit game (specific game) starts. The small hit game ends when the game ball passes through the specific area 113d or when the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 elapses without the game ball passing through the specific area 113d.

  Here, the opening / closing pattern of the special entrances 104 and 105 in the small hit game will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the operation mode of the sorting member 109 and the opening / closing mode of the special entrances 104 and 105.

  The distribution member 109 starts to operate when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (start of the small hit game). As described above, the sorting member 109 enters the first state where the game balls entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 are likely to pass through the specific area 113b, and entered the special entrances 104 and 105. The game ball can be switched to the second state in which the possibility that the game ball will pass through the specific area 113b is low. The operation mode of the sorting member 109 according to the present embodiment is set to the second state at the start of the operation, and is switched to the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed. Thereafter, the first state and the second state are alternately repeated. In this embodiment, the second state is “1 second”, and the first state is “0.4 second”.

  The special entrances 104 and 105 start opening and closing operations when the small hit game is started. The special entrances 104 and 105 of this embodiment are configured to open at the start of the operation and to close after a predetermined time has elapsed. In this embodiment, a plurality of opening / closing patterns 1 to 3 for the special entrances 104 and 105 are provided. A predetermined time limit is provided for the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 during the small hit game, which is “1.8 seconds” in this embodiment. For this reason, in each of the opening / closing patterns 1 to 3, the total opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 is set to 1.8 seconds.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the opening patterns 1 and 2, the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened a plurality of times. In the opening / closing pattern 1, four opening operations are performed, and these opening operations are configured as relatively long open operations. The opening / closing pattern 1 is configured such that the first to fourth opening operations are performed as the sorting member 109 enters the second state. In the opening / closing pattern 2, the opening operation is performed five times, the first opening operation is configured as a short opening, and the second to fifth opening operations are configured as a long opening longer than the short opening. The first opening operation (short opening) of the opening pattern 2 is performed as an opportunity to start the operation of the sorting member 109. Since the first opening operation (short opening) of the opening pattern 2 is not intended for entering a game ball, it should be shorter than the period during which the sorting member 109 is in the second state, and should be as short as possible. Is desirable. Then, the second to fifth opening of the opening / closing pattern 2 is performed in accordance with the distribution member 109 being in the first state. In the opening pattern 3, the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened once, and this opening operation is configured as a long opening.

  Opening / closing pattern 1 is as follows: first opening (0.4 seconds) → first closing (1 second) → second opening (0.4 seconds) → second closing (0.9 seconds) → third time Opening and closing of special entrances 104 and 105 is performed in the order of opening (0.5 seconds) → third closing (0.9 seconds) → fourth opening (0.5 seconds) → fourth closing. Is called. The opening / closing pattern 2 is the first opening (0.1 seconds: short opening) → first closing (0.8 seconds) → second opening (0.5 seconds: long opening) → second closing. (1 second) → 3rd opening (0.4 seconds: long opening) → 3rd closing (1 second) → 4th opening (0.4 seconds: long opening) → 4th closing (1 second) → The special entrances 104 and 105 are opened and closed in the order of the fifth opening (0.4 seconds: long opening). In the opening / closing pattern 3, the opening / closing operation of the special entrances 104 and 105 is performed in the order of first opening (1.8 seconds) → first closing.

  During the period when the distribution member 109 is in the first state and the period during which the special entrances 104 and 105 are open, the game balls entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 Is likely to be distributed to the first guide path 110 by the distribution member 109, and the game ball is likely to pass through the specific area 113b (the possibility of starting the big hit game is high). On the other hand, during the period in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the second state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state overlap, the special entrances 104 and 105 are entered. There is a high possibility that the game ball is distributed to the second guide path 111 by the distribution member 109, and the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b is low (the possibility that the big hit game is started is low).

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the opening / closing pattern 1, the distribution member 109 is in the second and third first periods and the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the third and fourth open states. Periods overlap each other by “0.1 seconds”. In the open / close pattern 2, the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state for the first to fourth times and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the second to fifth times are respectively “0”. .4 seconds "are overlapping. In the open / close pattern 3, the period when the distribution member 109 is in the first state and the period when the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the first open state overlap each other by “0.4 seconds”. ing.

  Thus, in the open / close patterns 1 to 3, the total length of the periods in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state overlap. Are different. Specifically, the total length of the period in which the period in which the distribution member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the overlapping state is the first opening / closing pattern. Is 0.2 seconds (0.1 seconds × 2 times), the opening / closing pattern 2 is 1.6 seconds (0.4 seconds × 4 times), and the opening / closing pattern 3 is 0.4 seconds (0.4 seconds × 1 time). It has become. In other words, the length of the period in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the overlapped state is the longest in the open / close pattern 2, Pattern 3 and opening / closing pattern 1 become shorter in this order. Therefore, the possibility that a game ball that has entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 in the open state passes through the specific area 113b (the possibility that a big hit game starts) is the highest in the open / close pattern 2, and the open / close pattern 3; It becomes lower in the order of the opening / closing pattern 1.

  Next, the jackpot game will be described. When the game ball passes through the specific area 113b of the central device 100 during the small hit game, or when the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a big hit symbol When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, the main control unit 200 starts a big hit game advantageous to the player. When the combination of special symbols is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol, the big hit game starts immediately without going through the small hit game, so it is also referred to as “per hit”.

  The big hit game is started by setting the big hit game flag to ON, and the big winning device 33 is operated, in other words, the big winning opening 33a is opened and closed a plurality of times, so that the game balls to the big winning opening 33a are opened. A predetermined profit (prize ball) is given to the player regarding the entry. The big hit game is realized by repeatedly executing a big hit game process by the main control unit 200 described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out in accordance with the game balls entering the big prize opening 33a. That is, the winning ball is paid out by detecting the passing of the game ball by the big winning port entrance ball detection switch 33s arranged in the big winning port 33a.

  Then, with the start of the big hit game, the big prize winning device 33 is continuously operated, and the big prize opening opening / closing operation for switching the big prize winning opening 33a between an open state (a state in which a player can enter a ball) and a closed state (a state in which a player cannot enter a ball) is performed. It is performed continuously several times. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined ending condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a reaches a specified time (30 seconds in this embodiment) or the number of game balls that have entered the open big opening 33a is a predetermined number (this implementation) In the example, it is possible to reach 10). When the game in which the big winning opening 33a is opened is “round game”, the number of rounds that can be continued in one big hit game (15 rounds in this embodiment) is set. When the round winning game 33a is closed and the round game is ended, after a predetermined interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment), the big winning port 33a is opened and the next round game is started. .

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, the “electric support state” in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are activated is started. Each function of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function operates by setting the fluctuation shortening flag and the opening extension flag to ON, respectively. The variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start simultaneously and end simultaneously. In the following description, when only one of the functions related to the operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is described, the other function is also paired. For example, when it is described in the following description that “the variable time shortening function is operating”, this description can be interpreted as “the opening time extending function is also operating”. When it is described that “the function is operating”, this description can be understood as “the variable time reduction function is operating”.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, after the big hit game is over, the electric support state (high frequency state) in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function for extending the open time of the second start port 29 start to operate. . The operation of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function is realized by the control of the main control unit 200, which will be described later. The fluctuation time shortening function includes a normal figure fluctuation time shortening function for shortening the fluctuation time of a normal symbol. And a special figure variation time shortening function for shortening the variation time of the special symbol.

  The “electric support state” in which the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated ends when the next big hit game starts or when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number. In the present embodiment, the “electric support state” is terminated when the number of times the special symbol has reached “100 times” without starting the next jackpot game after the jackpot game ends, Transition to the “non-electric support state (normal game state)” in which none of the open time extension functions is activated.

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the effect display device 25 generates a symbol variation effect in response to the special symbol variation game performed using the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62. Done. As the symbol variation effect, for example, in accordance with the variation display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 62, the effect symbol consisting of numbers is displayed in a variable manner. Examples include a fluctuating display effect and a reach effect performed during fluctuating display of effect symbols. There are a plurality of types of effect contents (effect patterns) of the symbol variation effect, and display data (image data) for these effects is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Here, the symbol variation effect realized under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 described later will be described. FIG. 6 is a front view of the effect display device 25. As shown in FIG. 6, the display area V of the effect display device 25 is provided with an effect symbol display unit Va that displays the effect symbols in a variable manner. In the symbol variation effect, the effect symbol is displayed in conjunction with the variation display and stop display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 62. That is, the effect display device 25 functions as a symbol display device in the same manner as the first special symbol display device and the second special symbol display device 62. In addition, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, the effect symbol display unit Va in which the effect symbols are variably displayed, and the display unit excluding the effect symbol display unit Va display characters, figures, symbols, characters (character designs), and the like. A background display portion Vb (character display portion) is displayed on which various background images are displayed. In other words, in the present embodiment, the background display portion Vb and the effect symbol display portion Va overlap a part of the display region or the entire display region on the display region V. The effect symbol display portion Va and the background display portion Vb may be completely partitioned so as not to overlap. The effect symbol display portion Va and the background display portion Vb constitute a symbol variation effect screen. As described above, since the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), the player usually displays the content displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25 (particularly the effect symbol). It will play a game paying attention to.

  In this embodiment, three-digit number symbols consisting of “1” to “9” are used as the effect symbols 25a to 25c, and the effect symbol display portion Va includes the left symbol 25a, the middle symbol 25b, and the right symbol 25c. Three symbols are displayed. The effect symbol display portion Va is set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of each symbol display portion, in this case, the symbol variation direction in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  When the first special symbol or the second special symbol starts the variable display, and the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, the effect symbol is the first special symbol. Or it is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the stop symbol of the second special symbol. In the effect design, the symbol combination with the same three digits becomes the first specific mode (big hit mode) corresponding to the big hit symbol of the special symbol, and the second specific mode (small) where the other symbol combinations correspond to the special jackpot symbol Hit mode) or a non-specific mode (outgoing mode) corresponding to a special symbol outlier.

  The determination of the variation pattern of the effect symbol and the stop symbol is configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol, and specifically indicates the variation time of the special symbol. The main control unit 200 randomly determines a variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol according to the result of the special symbol determination. Then, based on the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines the effect patterns of the effect symbols 25a to 25c displayed on the effect symbol display unit Va. The special symbol information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines the special symbol according to the determination result of the special symbol. The stop pattern of is decided at random. Then, based on the special symbol information designation command indicating the special symbol stop symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 displays the stop symbols of the effect symbols 25a to 25c that are stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit Va. decide.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the display area of the effect display device 25 is provided with a first hold display unit 25 d and a second hold display unit 25 e. The first hold display unit 25d is displayed in conjunction with the first special symbol hold display unit 53, and the number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the first special symbol hold number is displayed as the hold symbol. The second hold display unit 25e is displayed in conjunction with the second special symbol hold display unit 54, and the number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the second special symbol hold number is displayed as the hold symbol. That is, similar to the special symbol hold display units 53 and 54, the hold display units 25d and 25e are acquired by entering a game ball into the start port 28 (first start port 28a and second start port 28b). Storage information (holding information) indicating that the special symbol determination value (acquisition information) is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is displayed. The display of stored information in the hold display sections 25d and 25e of the effect display device 25 also corresponds to “hold display”.

  In the hold display sections 25d and 25e of the present embodiment, the leftmost circle figure “◯” indicates the hold stored first, and the hold newly stored in order toward the right side. When the special symbol variable display is started, the hold display corresponding to the hold (acquired information) that triggered the execution of the special symbol variable display is erased, and the remaining hold display is shifted to the left. Every time the number of special symbols held changes, a “holding number designation command” indicating the number of holds after the change is transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, and the display area of the effect display device 25 is displayed. The special symbol hold display in V is performed under the control of the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 based on the hold number designation command. That is, every time the number of special symbols held increases by 1, the corresponding hold display starts, and every time the number of special symbols held decreases by 1, the corresponding hold display ends. The start / end of the hold display (execution of the hold display) is performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280.

  Also, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, a jackpot game effect accompanying the progress of the jackpot game is performed during the jackpot game. The jackpot game effect includes a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) executed at the start of the jackpot game, a round effect executed during the jackpot game, a jackpot game end effect (ending effect) executed at the end of the jackpot game, etc. . These jackpot game effects are executed by the sub-control unit 260 based on commands transmitted from the main control unit 200 as the jackpot game progresses.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the electronic control unit includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 is configured by a CPU 200b as a main body to determine whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is determined by the determination program stored in the ROM. . Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. Connected to the board input relay board 201 are a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s, start opening detection switches 28s and 28t, a special winning opening entrance detection switch 33s, special entrance detection switches 104s and 105s, and a specific area detection switch 114. These signals are input to the main control unit 200. The panel output relay board 202 includes a normal symbol display device 51, special symbol display devices 61 and 62, a start port solenoid 28c, a prize winning port solenoid 33c, an opening / closing member solenoids 107c and 108c, a distribution member solenoid 109c, and a transfer roller motor. 112 m and a rotating body motor 113 m are connected, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output.

The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 11a to 11d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like.

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, special symbol information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice controls A command is sent. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. In addition, an image ROM (not shown) is provided on the effect display control board 280a, and the image data of the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described variation effect) is stored in the image ROM. Is stored more than once.

  In addition, various LEDs / lamps 262 and an amplifier board 263 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative drive board 261. Each LED / lamp 262 includes a frame lamp portion 5c. Connected to the amplifier board 263 are speakers 11a to 11d that output various sounds, sounds, and the like in accordance with the progress of the game. Furthermore, the production buttons 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, and the right button 8c) are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the production button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 is based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c) (reception of variation pattern designation command, input of production button operation signal, etc.). Various LED / lamp lighting / flashing pattern selection / execution processing, sound effect data selection / output processing output from the speakers 11a to 11d, and design variation effect execution pattern (effect pattern) on the effect display device 25 ) Selection processing, symbol variation production execution processing based on the execution pattern, and the like.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 8 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 8 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the throw-in process (S100), the game start process (S200), the normal symbol game process (S300), the ordinary electric game game process (S400), the special symbol game process (S500), the small hit game process (S600), the big hit Each process of the game process (S700) is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. The power-off generation process (S50) is a power-on process (S100) when a power failure occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and a system reset occurs. It has come to move to.

  The power-on process (S100) is performed when the power is turned on and when power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored when the power is turned off. The return setting etc. for making it do is performed. In the game start process (S200), detection of various switch states, update of various determination values (random number counter), prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  In the normal symbol game process (S300), first, the normal symbol determination is performed, and the normal symbol display device 51 (see FIG. 2) hits the normal symbol to stop display in the normal symbol display mode or Decide whether to stop display in the display mode. Here, as described above, the normal symbol success / failure determination in the present embodiment has a probability of being a hit according to the operating state of the opening time extension function (and the fluctuation time reduction function) that extends the opening time of the start port 28b. There is a difference that the probability of hitting is higher when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is activated than when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is not active.

  Next, when the result of normal symbol success / failure determination is obtained, the variation time of the normal symbol is set, and the variation display of the normal symbol is started according to the variation time. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the determined display mode, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started. (The 2nd starting port 28b is made into an open state). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is activated. I do. When the second start port 28b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process (S400), it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 28b is determined. It is determined whether or not a predetermined number of balls have been entered. When it is determined that a prescribed number of balls have been entered at the second start port 28b in the open state or when it is determined that the open time of the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece is closed, and the second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process (S500) will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 9A, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process (S501) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the first start port 28a (S501a), and when it is determined that no game ball has entered the first start port 28a (S501a: NO). , The process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the first start port 28a (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the first special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the first special symbol reservation number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the process proceeds to S501d, and the first special symbol reservation number is less than 4. Is determined (S501b: YES), the first special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501c). The first special symbol determination value includes a first special symbol determination value, a first symbol determination value, a first reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the 1st special symbol reservation number increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the second start port 28b (S501d). If it is determined that no game ball has entered the second start port 28b (S501d: NO) ). The start opening winning process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the second start port 28b (S501d: YES), it is determined whether or not the second special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501e). As a result, when it is determined that the second special symbol hold number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501e: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated, and the second special symbol hold number is less than 4. If it is determined that there is (S501e: YES), the second special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501f). The second special symbol determination value includes a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, a second reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the number of second special symbol reservation increases by one.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, it is determined whether or not a winning game is being performed (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S502). As a result, when it is determined that a hit game is being played (a big hit game flag or a small hit game flag is ON) (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and no hit game is being played (a big win game) If it is determined that the flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503). ).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S510 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is set to “0.6 seconds”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S515 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of second special symbol hold is zero (S506). As a result, when it is determined that the number of second special symbol reservation is zero (S506: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of first special symbol reservation is zero (S507).

  If it is determined that the number of first special symbol reservation is not zero (S507: NO), the first special symbol variation display process is performed (S508). If it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), a second special symbol variation display process is performed (S509). That is, if it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), the first special symbol hold number is not zero (even if it is 1 or more). 2. The special symbol variation display process is executed. As a result, the variation display of the second special symbol is performed in preference to the variation display of the first special symbol, and the priority variation function of the second special symbol is realized by the determination processing in S506.

  Here, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) and the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. The first special symbol variation display process and the second special symbol variation display process are processes having the same contents. That is, the “special symbol” in FIG. 11 becomes “first special symbol” in the first special symbol variation display process, only “second special symbol” in the second special symbol variation display process, and the others are the same. is there. Hereinafter, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) will be described, and the description of the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be omitted.

  First, a special symbol success / failure determination value (a success / failure determination value acquired when a game ball enters the start port 28) stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is read (S508a). A special symbol success / failure determination is performed (S508b).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (S508b) is a big hit (S508c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit hour variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508d). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a big hit (S508c: NO), it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (S508b) is a small hit (S508e). As a result, when it is determined that the game is a small hit (S508e: YES), a small hit hour variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508f). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a small hit (S508e: NO), a variation pattern table setting process at the time of disconnection is performed (S508g).

  Next, the variable pattern random number is acquired, and the symbol determining random number (the special symbol determining random number acquired when the game ball enters the starting port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. Read (S508h).

  Next, the variation pattern (variation time) and stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508i). As the special symbol variation pattern, the variation pattern random number acquired in S508h is used to select a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d, S508f, or S508g. Note that each variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d, S508f, and S508g is associated with a variation pattern random value and a variation pattern, and a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern random value acquired in S508f. The variation pattern to be used this time is determined. The special symbol stop symbol is a symbol determination table stored in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200 using the special symbol determination random number read in S508f when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit. If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a small hit, it is determined as a small hit symbol, and if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out, it is determined as a lost symbol. Similarly to the variation pattern table, the symbol determination table also associates the special symbol determination random number value with each jackpot symbol, and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the special symbol determination random number value read in S508h is It is determined as a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed.

  Next, based on the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in the processing of S508i, the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508j), and the special symbol hold The number is subtracted by 1 (S508k), and a symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508l). The “design variation start command” includes a variation pattern designation command, a special symbol information designation command, and a hold count designation command. The variation pattern designation command is a command indicating the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol determined in the process of S508i, and the special symbol information designation command similarly indicates the stop symbol of the special symbol determined in the processing of S508i. It is a command. The number-of-holds designation command is a command indicating the number of special symbols held after the start of variable symbol display. When this symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect symbol variation display) is started under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503: YES), the changing special symbol. It is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (S510). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S510: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S510: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S511), and a special symbol designating command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S512). A stop display time is set (S513).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S514). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S514: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is a winning symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol), Is determined (S515 in FIG. 9B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a winning symbol (big winning symbol or small winning symbol) (S515: YES), the gaming state at the time of starting the winning game is determined in the RAM of the main control unit 200. Store in the area (S516). The “game state at the start of winning game” includes the type of winning symbol stopped at that time and the setting state of the game state flag (variation shortening flag, release extension flag) at that time.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small hit symbol (S517). As a result, when it is determined that the winning symbol that has been stopped is not a small winning symbol (S517: NO), since the winning symbol that has been stopped is a big winning symbol, the big winning game flag is set to ON (S518). ). Thereby, the big hit game is started without going through the small hit game (per direct hit).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S519). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S519: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON. (S519: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S520), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S521). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function stops.

  If it is determined in the determination process of S517 that the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small symbol (S517: YES), An opening / closing pattern (see FIG. 5) of the special entrances 104 and 105 in the small hit game is set (S522). The opening / closing pattern of the special entrances 104 and 105 can be set by, for example, random lottery. Then, the small hit game flag is set to ON (S523). Thereby, the small hit game is started, and the special entrances 104 and 105 start the opening / closing operation according to the opening / closing pattern set in S522. In this embodiment, when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, the sorting member 109 starts operating in the second state.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S524). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S524: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S524: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by “1” (S525), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become “zero” (S526). When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S526: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S526: YES). Then, the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S520), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S522). As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating.

  Next, in the determination process of S515, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is not a winning symbol (in the case of an off symbol) (S515: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S527). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S527: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S527: YES), “1” is subtracted from the fluctuation shortening counter (S528).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter obtained by subtracting “1” in S528 is “zero” (S529). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S529: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S529). : YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S530), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S531).

  As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating that the gaming state is such that the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function are not activated is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S532). Upon receiving this game state designation command, the sub-control unit 260 displays characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating that the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function are inactive (normal state) on the effect display device 25. Processing to display in area V is performed.

  Next, the small hit game processing (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a small hit game is in progress (whether or not a small hit game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the small hit game is not in progress (the small hit game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the small hit game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the small hit game is being played (the small hit game flag is ON) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special entrance 104, 105 is being opened ( S602).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special entrances 104 and 105 are not open (S602: NO), the process proceeds to S610. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special entrances 104 and 105 are being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed (S603).

  As a result, when it is determined that the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed (S603: YES), the process proceeds to S608. On the other hand, when it is determined that the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has not elapsed (S603: NO), the special entrance detection switches 104s and 105s cause the special entrances 104 and 105 to have a game ball. It is determined whether or not a ball has entered (S604).

  As a result, when it is determined that no game ball is entering the special entrance 104, 105 (S604: NO), the small hit game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the special entrances 104 and 105 (S604: YES), it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area 113b of the special game device 113 ( S605). Whether or not the game ball has passed through the specific area 113b can be determined by whether or not the game ball has been detected by the specific area detection switch 114.

  As a result, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 113b, that is, when the game ball is not detected by the specific area detection switch 114 (S605: NO), the small hit game process is terminated. On the other hand, when the game ball has passed the specific area 113b, that is, when the game ball is detected by the specific area detection switch 114 (S605: YES), the small hit game flag is set to OFF (S606), and the big hit game flag Is set to ON (S607). Thereby, the big hit game is started via the small hit game. Then, the special entrances 104 and 105 are closed (S608).

  Next, when it is determined in the process of S602 that the special entrances 104 and 105 are not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the condition for ending the small hit game is satisfied (S609). . The “small hit game ending condition” is established when the special entrances 104 and 105 finish the opening / closing operation in accordance with the opening pattern set in the processing of S523 (FIG. 9B). As a result of the determination process in S609, if it is determined that the condition for ending the small hit game is not satisfied (S609: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed. (S610). As a result, when it is determined that the closing time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has elapsed (S610: YES), the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (S611). On the other hand, when it is determined that the closing time of the special entrances 104 and 105 has not elapsed (S610: NO), the small hit game process is terminated as it is.

  If it is determined in the determination processing of S609 that the condition for ending the small hit game is satisfied (S609: YES), the small hit game flag is set to OFF (S612). Thereby, the small hit game is ended without starting the big hit game.

  Next, the jackpot game process (S700) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S701). As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S701: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). Is determined (S701: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S702). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S702: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has passed (S703). When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S703: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have been entered). (S704).

  As a result, if it is determined that the specified number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S704: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated, and the predetermined winning number has been won in the large winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S704: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S703: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S705).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S702 that the special winning opening 33a is not open (S702: NO), it is determined whether or not the big hit game end condition is satisfied (S706). In the determination process of S706, it is determined whether or not the number of continuable rounds (15 rounds) has been reached.

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game end condition is not satisfied (S706: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S707), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S707: NO), the big hit game process is terminated and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed. (S707: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S708).

  If it is determined in the determination processing of S706 that the big hit game end condition is satisfied (S706: YES), the big hit game end processing is performed (S709). Here, the big hit game end process (S709) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S709a), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S709b), the release extension flag is set to ON (S709c), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set to “100” (S709e). ). As a result, after the big hit game ends, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start to operate. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating the operating state of the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S709f).

  In the present embodiment described above, the operation starts with the start of the small hit game (opening of the special entrances 104 and 105), and the probability that the game ball passes the specific area 113b is a predetermined probability. In the gaming machine 1 including the sorting member 109 capable of switching between the state and the second state in which the probability that the game ball passes the specific area 113b is lower than the first state, the special entry based on the operation mode of the sorting member 109 The opening / closing operation of the ball openings 104 and 105 is set.

  As a result, if the opening operation of the special entrances 104 and 105 is performed in accordance with the distribution member 109 being in the first state (opening and closing pattern 2), the special entrances 104 and 105 are entered. The possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b can be increased. Further, if the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened in accordance with the distribution member 109 being in the second state (opening and closing pattern 1), the game entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 The possibility that the sphere passes through the specific region 113b can be reduced. That is, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, “the opening / closing mode of the special entrances 104 and 105 during the small hit game having a predetermined time limit for the opening time is set based on the operation mode of the distribution member 109. Thus, it is possible to realize a new gameability that the possibility that the game ball can pass through the specific region 113b can be maximized or lowered, and the game entertainment can be enhanced.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, the sorting member 109 is in the second state, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the special entrances 104 and 105 In the second opening / closing pattern, first, the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened short. In this way, by setting the opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 as an opportunity to start the operation of the distribution member 109 in the second state as short as possible, the distribution member 109 subsequently enters the first state. The time over which the period and the period during which the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened can be made as long as possible. As a result, the limited opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 can be used efficiently, and the possibility of passing through the specific area 113b can be maximized. As described above, when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, in the configuration in which the sorting member 109 is in the second state and is in the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special entrance entrance immediately after the start of the small hit game. An open / close pattern in which 104 and 105 are short-opened is advantageous.

  Here, the correspondence between this embodiment and each means will be explained. “Special entrance 104, 105” corresponds to “variable entrance”, and “hit game” corresponds to “specific game” “Distribution member 109” corresponds to “movable part”, “opening / closing pattern 2” corresponds to “first opening / closing mode”, and “opening / closing pattern 1” and “opening / closing pattern 3” are “second opening / closing mode”. "CPU 200b of main control unit 200" corresponds to "opening / closing mode setting means" and "specific game execution means".

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the operation mode of the sorting member 109 of the second embodiment and the opening / closing mode of the special entrances 104 and 105, and corresponds to FIG. 5 of the first embodiment. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the operation mode of the sorting member 109 of the second embodiment is in the first state at the start of the operation, and is switched to the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed. This is different from the embodiment (FIG. 5). Moreover, the opening and closing patterns 1 to 3 of the special entrances 104 and 105 are the same as those in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

  In the second embodiment, the first to fourth opening of the opening / closing pattern 1 is performed as the sorting member 109 enters the first state. In addition, the second to fifth opening of the opening / closing pattern 2 is performed as the sorting member 109 enters the second state.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the opening / closing pattern 1, the period of the first to fourth times of the sorting member 109 and the first to fourth times of the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened. The periods overlap each other by “0.4 seconds”. In the open / close pattern 2, the period in which the distribution member 109 is in the first first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the first open state overlap each other by “0.1 second”. ing. In the open / close pattern 3, the period when the sorting member 109 is in the first state for the first and second times and the period when the special entrance 104 and 105 are in the first opened state are “0.4”, respectively. Seconds "are overlapping.

  Thus, in the open / close patterns 1 to 3, the total length of the periods in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state overlap. Are different. Specifically, the total length of the period in which the period in which the distribution member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the overlapping state is the first opening / closing pattern. Is 1.6 seconds (0.4 seconds × 4 times), the opening / closing pattern 2 is 0.1 seconds, and the opening / closing pattern 3 is 0.8 seconds (0.4 seconds × 2 times). That is, the length of the period in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the overlapped state is the longest in the opening / closing pattern 1, Pattern 3 and opening / closing pattern 2 become shorter in this order. For this reason, the possibility that a game ball entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 in the open state passes through the specific area 113b (the possibility that a big hit game starts) is the highest in the open / close pattern 1, and the open / close pattern 3, It becomes lower in the order of the opening / closing pattern 2.

  In the second embodiment described above, the distribution member 109 enters the first state after the start of the small hit game (opening of the special entrances 104 and 105), and enters the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed. In the first opening / closing pattern of the special entrances 104 and 105, first, the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened for a long time, and then the special entrance is made in accordance with the distribution member 109 being in the first state. 104 and 105 are configured to be opened long. Thereby, the limited opening time of the special entrances 104 and 105 can be used efficiently, and the possibility of passing through the specific area 113b can be maximized. As described above, in the configuration in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the second state after the elapse of a predetermined time when the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened, the special entrance entrance immediately after the start of the small hit game. An open / close pattern in which 104 and 105 are opened long is advantageous.

  Further, in the second embodiment, in the configuration in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state after the start of the small hit game (the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened), and is in the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed. In the second opening / closing pattern of the special entrances 104 and 105, the special entrances 104 and 105 are first opened short, and then the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened short. As described above, when the distribution member 109 is in the first state at the start of the operation, the opening operation of the special entrances 104 and 105 is briefly opened so that the distribution member 109 is in the first state. The time for which the special entrances 104 and 105 overlap with the open period can be made as short as possible. As a result, when the small hitting game is started (the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened), the sorting member 109 is in the second state, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the small hitting game is started. Immediately after that, by opening the special entrances 104 and 105 shortly, a disadvantageous opening / closing pattern can be created.

  Here, the correspondence between the second embodiment and each means will be described. “Opening / closing pattern 1” corresponds to “first opening / closing mode”, and “opening / closing pattern 2” and “opening / closing pattern 3” are “ This corresponds to the “second opening / closing mode”.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of the same parts as those in the above embodiments will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the operation mode of the sorting member 109 according to the third embodiment and the opening / closing mode of the special entrances 104 and 105. FIG. 5 and FIG. This corresponds to FIG. 15 of the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 16, in the third embodiment, the sorting member 109 starts operating when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and the first state and the second state are alternately repeated. In the third embodiment, the first state is “2 seconds”, and the second state is “3 seconds”. The operation mode of the sorting member 109 based on the power-on time is continued until the end of the small hit game described later.

  In the small hit game of the third embodiment, as the opening / closing pattern of the special entrance 104, 105, there is provided one kind of opening / closing pattern in which the special entrance 104, 105 is opened “1.8 seconds” only once. It has been. Further, in the third embodiment, since the sorting member 109 operates at a timing based on when the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned on, even during the small hit game, the start of the small hit game (the special entrance 104, The distribution member 109 operates at a timing not related to (opening 105). For this reason, if the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened during the period when the distribution member 109 is in the first state, the game balls entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 pass through the specific area 113b. If the special entrances 104 and 105 are open during the period when the distribution member 109 is in the second state, the game balls that have entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 are identified. The possibility of passing through the region 113b is reduced.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the third embodiment is configured such that when the small hit game ends, the sorting member 109 starts operating in the first state and switches to the second state after a predetermined time has elapsed. ing. That is, with the end of the small hit game, the operation mode of the sorting member 109 based on the time of power-on is reset once, and the sorting member 109 starts operating in a new operation mode.

  Also, in the third embodiment, when the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner within a predetermined period from the end of the small hit game, the small hit end variation pattern is set as the special symbol variation pattern. There are multiple types of variation patterns at the end of small hits. The variation patterns at the end of the small hits are different for each special symbol, the variation pattern 1 at the end of the small hits is set to “1.5 seconds”, and the variation pattern 2 at the end of the small hits varies. The time is set to “5 seconds”, and the variation pattern 3 at the end of the small hit is set to “3 seconds”. The small hit end variation pattern 3 is configured as a “specific variation pattern (specific variation time)” set in accordance with a period (3 seconds) in which the sorting member 109 is in the second state when the small hit game ends. Has been.

  Here, there is a special symbol hold at the end of the small hit game, or a game ball enters the start port 28 immediately after the small hit game ends, and the special symbol hold is generated. Based on the special symbol hold The case where a small hit occurs as a result of the special symbol variation display will be described. In these cases, after the end of the small hit game, the special symbol starts to change according to any one of the variation patterns 1 to 3 at the end of the small hit.

  When the special symbol is variably displayed according to the small hit end variation pattern 1 (variation time 1.5 seconds), the distribution member 109 is in the second state (3 seconds) during the period (1.5 When the second elapses), the special symbol variation display ends. Then, with the end of the change display of the special symbol, the small hit game starts and the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (1.8 seconds). Therefore, in the small hit end variation pattern 1 (variation time 1.5 seconds), the overlapping time of the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrance 104, 105 is in the open state. “0.3 seconds”.

  When the special symbol is variably displayed according to the variation pattern 2 at the end of small hits (fluctuation time 5 seconds), the special member 109 is special at the end of the first state (2 seconds) following the second state (3 seconds). The symbol variation display ends. Then, with the end of the change display of the special symbol, the small hit game starts and the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (1.8 seconds). For this reason, in the small hit end variation pattern 2 (variation time 5 seconds), the overlapping time of the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state is “0”. Seconds ".

  When the special symbol is variably displayed according to the small hit end variation pattern 3 (variation time 3 seconds), the special symbol variability display at the end of the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the second state (3 seconds) Ends. Then, with the end of the change display of the special symbol, the small hit game starts and the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened (1.8 seconds). Therefore, in the small hit end variation pattern 3 (variation time 3 seconds), the overlapping time of the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state is “1”. .8 seconds ".

  That is, the length of the period in which the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the period in which the special entrances 104 and 105 are in the open state overlaps with the variation pattern 3 at the end of small hits. The shortest end variation pattern 1 and the small hit end variation pattern 2 become shorter in this order. For this reason, the possibility that a game ball entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 in the open state passes through the specific area 113b (possibility of starting a big hit game) is the highest in the small hit end variation pattern 3, The small hit end variation pattern 1 and the small hit end variation pattern 2 decrease in this order.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation display process of the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 11 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, in the third embodiment, after the special symbol success / failure determination process is performed in S508b, it is determined whether or not the small hit game has ended (S508m). As a result, when it is determined that the small hit game has been completed (S508m: YES), the small hit end variation pattern table for setting the small hit end variation pattern table including the small hit end variation patterns 1 to 3 is set. A table setting process is performed (S508n). Then, in the processing of S508h and S508i, one of the variation patterns is determined from among the small hit end variation patterns 1 to 3.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the small hit game process of the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, in the third embodiment, when it is determined in the determination process of S609 that the condition for ending the small hit game is satisfied (S609: YES), the small hit game flag is set to OFF ( In S612, the distribution member 109 is started to operate in the second state (S613). Thereby, with the end of the small hit game, the operation mode of the sorting member 109 based on the time of power-on is temporarily reset, and the sorting member 109 starts to operate in a new operation mode.

  In the third embodiment described above, in the configuration in which the sorting member 109 enters the second state when the small hit game ends, and enters the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed, based on the operation mode of the sorting member 109. The special pattern variation pattern (variation time) is set.

  Thus, if the variation time of the special symbol is set in accordance with the time during which the distribution member 109 is in the second state (the variation pattern 3 at the end of the small hit), the distribution member 109 is in the first state. At the same time, the special symbol variation display can be terminated. As a result, when a small hit occurs as a result of the special symbol variation display, it is possible to increase the possibility that a game ball that has entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 passes through the specific area 113b. Moreover, if the variation time of the special symbol is set irrespective of the time during which the distribution member 109 is in the second state (the variation pattern 1 and 2 at the end of small hits), the distribution member 109 is in the first state. Regardless of, the special symbol change display ends. As a result, when a small hit occurs as a result of the special symbol variation display, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a game ball that has entered from the special entrances 104 and 105 passes through the specific area 113b. That is, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, “in the configuration in which the distribution member 109 starts operating when the small hit game ends, the variation time of the special symbol is set based on the operation mode of the distribution member 109. Thus, it is possible to realize a new gameability that the possibility that the game ball can pass through the specific region 113b can be maximized or lowered.

  In the third embodiment, the special symbol hold is made to exist at the end of the small hit game, so that the special symbol change display can be started immediately after the small hit game ends. This makes it easy to match the timing at which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the timing at which the special symbol ends the variation display based on the variation pattern 3 at the end of the small hit (the timing at which the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened). It is possible to increase the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b. In other words, since it is advantageous for the player to have a special symbol hold at the end of the small hit game, the game ball can be prevented from being stopped during the small hit game, and the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 can be increased. it can.

  Here, the correspondence between the third embodiment and each means will be described. “Small hit game” corresponds to “first specific game”, and “Big hit game” corresponds to “second specific game”. The “small hit end variation pattern 3” corresponds to the “first variation time”, and the “small hit end variation pattern 1” and the “small hit end variation pattern 3” correspond to the “second variation time”. The “CPU 200b of the main control unit 200” corresponds to “variable time setting means”, “first specific game execution means”, and “second specific game execution means”.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the distribution member 109 causes the probability that the game ball passes the specific area 113b to be a predetermined probability, and the probability that the game ball passes the specific area 113b is lower. Although it is configured to switch to any one of the “second states”, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area 113b may be gradually changed.

  In each of the above embodiments, only one type of operation mode of the distribution member 109 is provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of types of operation modes of the distribution member 109 are provided, and a specific operation is selected from the plurality of types of operation modes. You may comprise so that an aspect may be selected. In this case, with the configuration of the first and second embodiments, a plurality of opening / closing patterns of the special entrances 104 and 105 may be set for each operation mode of the sorting member 109. In the example configuration, a plurality of special symbol variation patterns may be set for each operation mode of the sorting member 109.

  In the configuration of the third embodiment, the small hit end variation pattern 3 (as the special symbol variation pattern from the end of the specific small hit game (first specific game) until the predetermined time elapses ( FIG. 16: a specific variation pattern) may be determined (including 100%). Accordingly, it is possible to realize a gameability that can increase the possibility that a big hit game is started via a small hit game after the end of a specific small hit game. In order to increase the probability that the variation pattern 3 at the end of small hits is determined as the variation pattern of the special symbol from the end of the specific small hit game until a predetermined time elapses, the specific small hit game is It is sufficient to provide a counter for measuring the elapsed time since the end of.

  In addition, the variation pattern 3 (specific variation pattern) at the end of the small hits can be determined as the variation pattern of the special symbol from the end of the specific small hit game (first specific game) until a predetermined time elapses. When the result of the change display of the special symbol based on the entrance of the game ball into the second start port 28b is a small hit in the configuration for improving the performance, the game ball enters the first start port 28a. It can be configured such that the possibility of executing a specific small hit game is higher than the case where the result of the variation display of the special symbol based is a small hit. Thus, the game ball passes through the specific area 113b during the “electric support state (during the operation of the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function)” in which the game ball enters the second start port 28b frequently. It is possible to realize a game with a high possibility.

  In the third embodiment, the “small hit game” is configured as the “first specific game” that triggers the distribution member 109 to start operation in a new operation mode (reset opportunity). Without limitation, the “big hit game” may be configured as the “first specific game”, or both the “small hit game” and the “big hit game” may be configured as the “first specific game”. When “big hit game” is “first specific game”, “big hit game” corresponds to both “first specific game” and “second big hit game”.

  As described above, when the jackpot game (second specific game) is ended, the distribution member 109 is operated in the second state and the first state is set after a predetermined time has elapsed. It is possible to easily realize the extended resort state that is continuously executed through the small hit game. In addition, by allowing the special symbol hold to exist at the end of the big hit game, the change display of the special symbol can be started immediately upon the end of the big hit game. As a result, the operation mode of the sorting member 109 and the timing at which the special symbol ends changing display (the timing at which the special entrances 104 and 105 are opened) can be matched, and the game ball may pass through the specific area 113b. Can be maximized. That is, it is advantageous for the player to have a special symbol hold at the end of the big hit game, so that the game ball can be prevented from being stopped during the big hit game, and the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 can be increased.

  In the configuration of the third embodiment, the distribution member 109 is operated in the second state when the small hit game (second specific game) ends, and the first state is set after a predetermined time has elapsed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the distribution member 109 may be operated in the first state when the small hit game (second specific game) ends, and the second state may be set after a predetermined time has elapsed. Good. According to such a configuration, by setting a variation pattern in which the variation time of the special symbol is shorter than the period in which the distribution member 109 is in the first state, the result of the variation display of the special symbol is a small hit. In such a case, the period during which the sorting member 109 is in the first state and the time during which the special entrance 104, 105 is in the open state can overlap, and the special entrance 104, 105 can be overlapped. It is possible to increase the possibility that the game ball that has entered the ball passes through the specific area 113b. Furthermore, by setting a variation pattern in which the variation time of the special symbol is as short as possible, the period during which the sorting member 109 is in the first state overlaps the time during which the special entrance 104, 105 is in the open state. The time can be made as long as possible, and the possibility that a game ball entering from the special entrances 104 and 105 passes through the specific area 113b can be maximized.

Moreover, in the said 1st Example, the period which becomes the 2nd-5th long opening of the opening / closing pattern 2 (FIG. 5) of the special entrances 104 and 105 is match | combined with the period when the distribution member 109 becomes a 1st state. In the second embodiment, the period in which the first and fourth long opening of the opening / closing pattern 1 (FIG. 15) of the special entrances 104 and 105 is set to the period in which the sorting member 109 is in the first state. However, in these open / close patterns, the long open period does not necessarily coincide with the period in which the distribution member 109 is in the first state, and may be slightly deviated. Good. Further, considering the time required for the game balls entering from the special entrances 104 and 105 to reach the distribution member 109, the distribution member 109 indicates the start point of the period during which the special entrances 104 and 105 are long open. It is desirable that the period be earlier than the period when the first state is reached.

As an aspect of the third embodiment,
Identification information changing means for variably displaying the identification information according to a predetermined change mode based on the detection of the game ball;
A variation time setting means for setting a variation time of the identification information;
A variable entrance that can be changed between a state where a game ball cannot enter and a state where a game ball can enter,
A first specific game execution means for executing a first specific game in which the variable entrance is in the entrance enabled state by the result of the variation display of the identification information being a specific result;
A specific area through which a game ball entering the variable entrance can pass;
A second specific game execution means for executing a second specific game advantageous to the player when a game ball passes through the specific area;
A movable part that changes the possibility that a game ball that has entered the variable entry port passes through the specific area by operating in a predetermined manner;
The movable portion is capable of executing an operation according to a predetermined mode, triggered by the end of at least one of the first specific game or the second specific game,
As a variation time of the identification information when the variation display result of the identification information becomes a specific result, at least a first variation time and a second variation time having a length different from the first variation time are included. ,
The variation time setting means can set the first variation time as a variation time of the identification information when a variation display result of the identification information becomes a specific result for a predetermined period after the second specific game ends. And
When the first variation time is set, it is possible to identify an invention in which the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area is higher than when the second variation time is set.

  According to the configuration of the present invention, in the configuration in which the movable unit is operated in a predetermined manner triggered by the end of at least one of the first specific game or the second specific game, the variation time when the identification information becomes the specific result is increased. By setting a plurality of times and setting the plurality of variation times (first variation time, second variation time) so that the possibility that a game ball that has entered from the variable entrance is different from the specific area, The possibility of a game ball passing through a specific area can be maximized or reduced depending on the variation time of the identification information. it can. In addition, it is possible to increase the possibility of executing the second specific game (renso) again after the end of the second specific game. In addition, the action start timing of the movable part is the end of the specific game, and the possibility of passing through the specific area after the end of the specific game when a predetermined fluctuation time is set is increased, thereby preventing the stoppage and the game The operating rate of the machine can be increased. In addition, since the movable part starts the operation in a predetermined mode triggered by the end of the first specific game or the second specific game, when the variable display starts within a predetermined time from the start of the operation (from the end of the specific game) The possibility of passing through a specific area can be controlled. In addition, when the movable part starts to operate in a predetermined mode, the operation ends based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (for example, the start of the first specific game or the second specific game), and based on the end of the specific game The operation is started in a predetermined manner.

Further, the present invention provides the above-described configuration,
An acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on detection of a game ball;
The identification information changing means may be configured to display the identification information in a variable manner based on the acquired information when the acquired information is stored in the acquired information storage information.

  As described above, the acquisition information storage means for storing the acquisition information is provided, so that the acquisition information is stored at the end of the second specific game (so that a so-called hold exists). Thus, after the second specific game is over, the change display of the identification information can be started immediately. As a result, the timing when the movable part easily enters the game ball into the specific area (also referred to as “first state”) and the timing when the identification information ends changing display (that is, the variable ball entrance enters the ball). And the timing at which the game ball becomes possible, and the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area can be increased. In other words, it is advantageous for the player to store the acquired information at the end of the second specific game (to end the second specific game in a state where there is a hold), so during the specific game (the first specific game or In the second specific game), it is possible to prevent the game ball from being stopped and to increase the operating rate of the gaming machine. The number of pieces of acquisition information (holding information) that can be stored in the acquisition information storage means (the change start condition is not satisfied) is preferably plural (for example, four). As a result, it is possible to more effectively prevent stoppages and increase the possibility that specific games will occur continuously.

Further, in the above configuration, the variation time setting means can set the first variation time as a variation time of the identification information for a predetermined period after the first specific game ends.
When the first variation time is set, it is possible to increase the possibility that the game ball passes through the specific area as compared with the case where the second variation time is set.

  Thereby, possibility that a 2nd specific game will be performed after completion | finish of a 1st specific game can be made high. In addition, the start of the action of the movable part is the end of the specific game, and the possibility of passing through the specific area after the end of the first specific game when a predetermined fluctuation time is set is increased, thereby preventing the stoppage. The operating rate of gaming machines can be increased.

Further, in the above configuration, the movable portion includes a first state in which a game ball entering the variable entrance is highly likely to pass through the specific area, and a game ball entering the variable entrance is The second state is less likely to pass through the specific region, and
The predetermined mode is the second state at the start of operation, and the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed,
The first variation time may be a time corresponding to the predetermined time.

  In this way, with the end of the second specific game, the movable part is placed in a state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific area (also referred to as “second state”), and the game ball enters the specific area after a predetermined time has elapsed. In the configuration in which the first state is easy to make a ball, the movable portion is in the first state by setting the first variation time to a time corresponding to the time in which the movable portion is in the second state (specific variation time). At the same time, the variable display of the identification information is terminated, and the variable entrance can be put into a state where entry is possible. As a result, in the period in which the first variation time after the end of the specific game is set, when the result of the variation display of the identification information becomes the specific result, the game ball that has entered from the variable entrance has passed the specific area. You can maximize your chances of doing it.

  Further, in the above configuration, the variation time setting means increases the possibility of setting the first variation time as the variation time of the identification information for a predetermined period after the end of the specific first specific game. You can also

  Thereby, when the specific first specific game is executed, it is possible to increase the possibility that the game ball that has entered from the variable entrance after the completion of the specific first specific game will pass through the specific area. Achievable playability. It should be noted that the predetermined period may be set by the number of times the identification information is changed and may be set by time. Further, increasing the possibility of setting the first fluctuation time means that the first fluctuation time is set to be higher compared to a period other than the predetermined period, and the possibility that the first fluctuation time is set is 100%. Including. In addition, the possibility of setting the first variation time in a predetermined period after the end of the specific second specific game may be increased. Moreover, the below-mentioned small hits can be illustrated as a 1st specific game. Moreover, the below-mentioned jackpot can be illustrated as a 2nd specific game.

  In the above embodiment, the game balls supplied from the island facilities in the game hall are used as “rental balls” or “prize balls”, and various winning holes (first start port, second start port) provided on the game board are used. To a gaming machine (pachinko machine) that gives a player a gaming profit (game value) by paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the number of game balls that enter the mouth, big prize opening, etc.) Although an example in which the invention is applied has been described, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine that gives gaming profits in a form different from “payout of prize balls”.

  For example, when a game ball is entered into various winning holes, data indicating the amount of profit (the magnitude of the game value) corresponding to the ball is stored in the RAM of the main control unit or the payout control unit. Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine in which a gaming profit (game value) is given to a player. In this case as well, the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained. As a type of gaming machine in which gaming profit (game value) is converted into data and given to the player, a gaming machine that circulates and uses a plurality of gaming balls built in the gaming machine, specifically, Examples of the game machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return the game ball discharged to the back surface of the game board through various winning holes or out holes to the launch position and launch it again.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 104 ... 1st special entrance (variable entrance), 105 ... 2nd special entrance (variable entrance), 109 ... Distribution member (movable part), 113b ... Specific area | region, 200... Main control unit (opening / closing mode setting means, specific game execution means, first specific game execution means, second specific game execution means, variable time setting means).

Claims (3)

A variable entrance opening that allows the game ball to enter the inaccessible state by closing, and enters the enterable state to allow the game ball to enter by opening,
Open / close mode setting means for setting the open / close mode of the variable entrance,
A specific area through which a game ball entering the variable entrance can pass;
Specific game execution means for executing a specific game advantageous to a player when a game ball passes through the specific area;
A movable part that changes the possibility that a game ball that has entered the variable entry port passes through the specific area by operating in a predetermined manner;
With
The movable portion performs an operation in a predetermined manner when the variable entrance is ready to enter, so that the game ball entering the variable entrance enters the specific area. A first state that has a high possibility of passing, and a second state in which a game ball that has entered the variable entrance has a low possibility of passing through the specific area,
As the opening / closing mode of the variable entrance, a first opening / closing mode in which the time during which the variable entrance is ready to enter when the movable portion is in the first state is a predetermined time, and the movable portion is the first And a second opening / closing mode in which the time during which the variable entrance is ready to enter is shorter than the predetermined time when in a state. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a period in which the first opening / closing mode is allowed to enter is substantially the same as a period in which the second opening / closing mode is allowed to enter. The movable portion is in the second state at the start of operation, and is in the first state after a predetermined time has elapsed,
In the first opening / closing mode, the variable entrance is opened and closed for a predetermined time, and when the movable portion is in the first state after a predetermined closing time has elapsed, the variable entrance is also adjusted. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the game machine is configured to be opened for a time longer than the predetermined time.

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