JP2016026738A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance an interest of a game when promoting operation input to a player.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises: an operation possible time notification part for performing notification related to an effective time in which operation input is effective; operation possible time notification means for performing notification related to the effective time by the operation possible time notification part; and operation possible enhancement means for enhancing that the operation input to a performance operation part can be accepted. The operation possible time notification means notifies of passing of the effective time, by changing the operation possible time notification part continuously in one direction according to passing of the effective time. The operation possible enhancement means comprises a display part which changes according to passing of the effective time before finish of the effective time, independently from the operation possible time notification part, and changes a display mode of the display part from a display mode of the operation possible time notification part, for enhancing that the operation input to the performance operation part can be accepted, namely an operation possible enhancement display is executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17D

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a pachislot machine having an effect operation unit that can be operated by a player.

  Conventional gaming machines, for example, pachinko gaming machines, execute effect display of a variable display game on a display device provided at substantially the center of a gaming area formed on a gaming board. And there is an effect button (effect operation unit) that can be operated by the player, and changes the display content of the effect according to the operation input.

  In such a gaming machine, when the operation of the effect button is valid, a promotion image that promotes the operation is displayed on the display device to prompt the operation of the effect button. (Patent Document 1)

JP 2011-125550 A

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the promotion image is displayed, but the entertainment of the game is not sufficiently enhanced.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and it is an object of the present invention to enhance the interest of a game in a promotion image that promotes a player to operate a production button.

  The present invention is a gaming machine including a display device, a control unit that controls display contents of the display device, and an effect operation unit capable of detecting a player's operation, wherein the effect operation unit includes the effect When the member constituting the operation unit is configured to be movable, and the control unit is capable of accepting an operation input to the effect operation unit, the control unit displays a promotion image for prompting the player's operation on the display device. An operable notification unit that notifies that an operation input to the effect operation unit is acceptable is provided, and the promotion image includes an operable time notification unit that performs notification related to an effective time during which the operation input is valid. The operable notification means emphasizes that the operable time notification means for performing notification regarding the valid time is received by the operable time notification section and that the operation input to the effect operation section can be accepted. Means and the production An operation unit change notification unit for notifying a player of a change in a member constituting the cropping unit, and the operable time notification unit continuously sets the operable time notification unit as the effective time elapses. By changing the direction, it is notified that the effective time has elapsed, and the operable emphasis means can operate the display unit that changes as the effective time elapses before the effective time ends. Operable emphasis that emphasizes that an operation input to the effect operation unit can be accepted by changing the display mode of the display unit differently from the operable time notifying unit, separately from the time notifying unit The display is executed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game in the promotion image that promotes the player to operate the effect buttons.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is an enlarged front view around the variable winning unit of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of the variable winning unit of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the movement of the slide member of the variable prize apparatus of the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the game control apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the presentation control apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the firing direction instruction | indication process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the ball | bowl discharge path of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a variable winning unit of the modification of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view of the game board of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged front view of the variable prize-winning unit of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flow direction changing member of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a variable winning unit of the modification 1 of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a variable winning unit of the modification 2 of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a variable winning unit of the modification 3 of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a variable winning unit of the modification 3 of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the alerting | reporting effect which concerns on operation of the effect button of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the effect when the operation target of the effect button is set in the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the operation target process of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the operation target display process of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the display apparatus periphery of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the presentation control apparatus of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the effect display in the display apparatus of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the storage cancellation | release display process of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the hybrid type movable member of the modification 1 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the presentation control apparatus of the modification 1 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the hybrid process of the modification 1 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the light emitting member of the modification 2 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the mechanism of light emission of the modification 2 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the movable member of the modification 2 of the 4th Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the front, rear, left, and right in the description of the embodiment refer to a direction viewed from the game board (a direction viewed from the player).

  With reference to FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an opening / closing frame that is attached to a main body frame (outer frame) 2 fixed to the island facility via a hinge 3 so that one side portion can be freely opened and closed. The open / close frame includes a front frame (game frame) 5 and a glass frame (front frame) 6.

  A game board 20 having a game area 21 is housed in the front frame 5 in a storage frame (not shown) attached to the back surface. A glass frame 6 provided with a cover glass (transparent member) 6 a that covers the front surface of the game board 20 is attached to the front frame 5. The front frame 5 and the glass frame 6 can be opened individually. For example, only the glass frame 6 can be opened to access the game area 21 of the game board 20. Further, by opening the front frame 5 in a state where the glass frame 6 is not opened, it is possible to access the game control device 100 (see FIG. 5) and the like disposed on the back side of the game board 20.

  A decorative member 7 that emits decorative light is provided around the cover glass 6 a of the glass frame 6. Inside the decorative member 7 is provided a frame decoration device 261 (see FIG. 6) constituted by a lamp, an LED, or the like. By causing the frame decoration device 261 to emit light in a predetermined light emitting mode, the decorative member 7 emits light in a predetermined light emitting mode.

  An illumination unit 8 is provided in the upper center portion of the glass frame 6. Inside the illumination unit 8, light emitting members such as LEDs and lamps are provided.

  A movable illumination 9 is provided on the left and right of the illumination unit 8. The movable illumination 9 is disposed above the upper speaker 10a. In addition to illumination members such as LEDs, the movable illumination 9 includes an illumination drive motor (frame effect device 271), and is controlled to operate (for example, rotate) in accordance with the effect content.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with a speaker 10 that emits sound (sound effect, warning sound, notification sound, etc.). The speaker 10 includes an upper speaker 10a and a lower speaker 10b. The upper speaker 10a is disposed above the glass frame 6, and the lower speaker 10b is disposed at the lower left of an effect button 16 described later.

  On the right side of the left movable illumination 9, a gaming state notification LED 32 for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine 1 is provided. When an abnormality occurs in the gaming machine 1, a notification sound for notifying the abnormality is further output from the speaker 10.

  Abnormalities occurring in the gaming machine 1 include failure of the gaming machine 1 and implementation of fraud. The cheating is, for example, an act of illegally manipulating the trajectory of a game ball launched by a magnet or an act of vibrating the gaming machine 1. These fraudulent acts are detected by detecting magnetism with the magnetic sensor switch (SW) 39a (see FIG. 5) or detecting vibration with the vibration sensor switch (SW) 39b (see FIG. 5). Also, the act of opening the open / close frame illegally is also included in the illegal act. At this time, it is detected by the frame opening sensor switch (front frame opening detection switch 5d, glass frame opening detection switch 6d, see FIG. 5) that the opening and closing frames of the front frame 5 and the glass frame 6 are opened during business hours. . When an illegal act as described above is detected, an abnormality is notified by the gaming state notification LED 32, the speaker 10, or the like.

  Below the cover glass 6a of the glass frame 6, an upper plate unit 11 including an upper plate 11a and the like is provided. The upper plate 11a supplies a game ball (game medium) to a hitting ball launching device (not shown).

  Further, a fixed panel that is positioned below the glass frame 6 and fixed to the front frame 5 is provided with a lower plate 13, an operation unit 14 of a ball striking device, and the like. When the player rotates the operation unit 14, the hitting ball launching device launches the game ball supplied from the upper plate 11 a to the game area 21 of the game board 20.

  The lower tray 13 is provided with a lower tray ball removing mechanism for discharging game balls stored in the lower tray 13. On the lower right side of the front frame 5, a key for locking the glass frame 6 is provided.

  In addition, on the front side of the upper plate 11a in the upper plate unit 11, an effect button (effect operation unit) 16 having a built-in effect button switch (SW) 251 (see FIG. 6) for receiving an operation input from the player. Is provided. By operating the effect button 16, the player can perform an effect in which the player's operation is intervened in the variable display game on the display device 30. For example, the production content can be selected. Note that the fluctuation display game includes a special figure fluctuation display game and a common figure fluctuation display game. In the present specification, when the fluctuation display game is simply referred to, the special figure fluctuation display game is indicated.

  Further, the effect pattern may be changed not only during the execution of the variable display game but also by the player operating the effect button 16 during the non-execution.

  Note that the gaming state when the variable display game is executed includes a plurality of gaming states, and the normal gaming state (normal state) is a gaming state in which no special gaming state has occurred. In addition, the special game state is, for example, a state (progressive change state) or a big hit state (special change state) with a high probability of occurrence of a special result (big hit) in a specific game state (general power support state or a short time state) described later or a variable display game. Gaming state).

  Here, the probability variation state is one that continues until the next big hit (loop type), one that continues until a predetermined number of fluctuation display games are executed (number-of-times type), and a predetermined probability falling lottery. Continuing until it is done (falling lottery type) is considered.

  Further, whether or not to generate a probability variation state is not determined by the jackpot symbol random number, it is possible to always generate a probability variation state when a jackpot occurs, or provide a winning device or the like having a specific area, A probability variation state may be generated when a game ball passes through a specific area.

  In addition, after the variable display game is started, an operation promotion effect for promoting the operation of the effect button 16 is executed. By operating the effect button 16 while the operation promotion effect is being executed, the start memory is stored. It is possible to execute a notice effect or the like for notifying the result of the corresponding variable display game in advance.

  A ball lending button 17 that is operated when a player borrows a game ball and a discharge button 18 that is operated to discharge a prepaid card from a card unit (not shown) are provided on the upper right portion of the upper plate 11a. .

  Next, the game board 20 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described. The game board 20 defines a substantially circular game area 21 by providing guide rails as partition members on the surface of a rectangular game board body made of plywood or plastic. A game ball is fired from the hitting ball launcher into the game area 21 to play a game. The game area 21 is provided with a windmill as a hitting direction changing member, a number of obstacle nails, and the like, and the shot game balls flow down the game area 21 while changing the rolling direction by these hitting direction changing members. To do.

  A center case 22 that forms a window portion serving as a display area for the variable display game is attached to the approximate center of the game area 21. Behind the window portion formed in the center case 22 is disposed a display device 30 as an effect display device capable of executing an effect of a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner (variable display). The display device 30 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, and is arranged so that display contents can be visually recognized from the front side of the game board 20 through the window portion of the center case 22. The display device 30 is not limited to the one provided with the liquid crystal display, and may be provided with a display such as an EL or CRT.

  A plurality of variable display areas are provided in an area (display area 31) where an image of the display screen can be displayed, and identification information (special symbols) and a character that produces a variable display game are displayed in each variable display area. The In addition, the display area (display screen) 31 displays an image based on the progress of the game (for example, a jackpot display, a fanfare display, an ending display, etc.).

  Further, the center case 22 is provided with a movable accessory 34 that rotates to enhance the effect of the effect in cooperation with the effect display on the display device 30. The movable accessory 34 is one of the board effect devices 270 (see FIG. 6), and is driven and controlled by the board effect motor / SOL control circuit 243.

  The game area 21 on the lower right side of the center case 22 is provided with a normal figure start gate 25 that establishes a normal symbol (normal figure) variable display game start condition when a game ball passes. The normal start gate 25 has one end in contact with the side surface of the center case 22.

  In addition, a bent portion 33 that changes the flow direction of the game ball that has passed through the normal diagram start gate 25 is provided below the normal diagram start gate 25, and the bent portion 33 allows the game ball to be framed in the game area 21. It flows down toward the wall surface, and further flows down to the variable winning unit 60 provided at the lower end of the game area 21.

  The variable winning unit 60 includes a normal variable winning device (second start winning port) 61, a second out port 62, and a first special variable winning device 63 from the right side. Details of the variable winning unit 60 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In the game area 21 below the center case 22, a first start winning opening 23 is provided which can give a start condition for a first special symbol (first special figure) variable display game based on winning of a game ball.

  Further, three general winning openings 26 are arranged on the lower left side of the center case 22. In addition, winning of a game ball in the general winning opening 26 is detected by winning opening switches (SW) 26a to 26n (see FIG. 5) provided in the general winning opening 26.

  When the game ball wins the first big winning opening of the general winning opening 26, the first start winning opening 23, the normal variable winning apparatus 61, and the first special variable winning apparatus 63, the payout control apparatus 410 (see FIG. 5) wins. Control is performed so that the number of prize balls corresponding to the type of the winning opening is discharged from the payout device to the upper plate 11a or the lower plate 13 of the front frame 5. A first out port 29 is provided below the first start winning port 23 for collecting game balls that have not won the winning port. In the first embodiment, a second out port 62 is provided in the variable winning unit 60 in addition to the first out port 29. The second out port 62 flows down without winning the normal variation winning device 61 and collects the game balls that could not be passed to the big winning port of the first special variable winning device 63.

  Although not shown in the lower right part of the game board 20, the special figure fluctuation display of the special figure fluctuation display game (the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game), the special figure winning memory. Number (starting memory number of the first special figure fluctuation display game and second special figure fluctuation display game), normal figure fluctuation display of the ordinary figure fluctuation display game, ordinary figure winning memory number (starting memory number of the ordinary figure fluctuation display game) ), And a status indicator 50 (see FIG. 5) for displaying the number of rounds determined by the jackpot.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the variable winning unit 60 provided in the game area 21 on the lower right side of the center case 22 will be described. FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the variable winning unit of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The variable winning unit 60 includes a normal variable winning device 61, a second out port 62, and a first special variable winning device 63 from the right side.

  The normal variation winning device 61 is provided at the lower right end of the game area 21. The top surface of the normal variation winning device 61 is an inclined surface that descends in one direction from the right to the left, and functions as a slide member 61a operable in the front-rear direction. Further, the normal variation winning device 61 is arranged so that the center of the upper surface thereof is located below the usual start gate 25.

  The normal variation winning device 61 can give the start condition of the second special symbol (second special diagram) variable display game based on the winning of the game ball. The normal variation winning device 61 is converted into a state in which a game ball is likely to flow into the winning port and a state in which it is difficult to flow in due to the movement of the slide member 61a. The slide member 61a always holds a state where it is difficult for the game ball to win the normal variation winning device 61 or a state where it is not won (a disadvantageous state for the player). Then, when the result of the general fluctuation display game becomes a specific stop display mode (specific result), the mode of the slide member 61a is changed by the general electric solenoid 61b (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) as a drive device. It is configured to be converted into an open state (a state advantageous to the player, an easy-to-win state) in which the game ball easily flows into the normal variation winning device 61.

  The slide member 61a is controlled by a game control device 100 (see FIG. 5) described later. The game control device 100 generates the above-described specific game state (electric support state, short time state) by increasing the frequency of occurrence of the easy-to-win state or increasing the occurrence time of the easy-to-win state.

  The second out port 62 is provided on the left side (the upper surface lower end side of the slide member 61) of the normal variation winning device 61. When the normal variation winning device 61 is in a disadvantageous state for the player, the game ball that has flowed down on the slide member 61a of the normal variation winning device 61 falls to the second out port 62 and is collected if there is no downward flow. In addition, if there is a downward flow, it passes above the second out port 62 and reaches the first special fluctuation winning device 63 further downstream.

  As described above, the second out port 62 is defined between the normal variation winning device 61 and the first special variation winning device 63, and is provided so that a game ball can flow down or jump over.

  In addition, a planting region in which a nail that can change the flow direction of the game ball can be planted is provided in the upper part of the second out port 62, and a nail 64 is disposed. For example, by disposing the nail 64 downward, even if the game ball that has flowed down the normal variation prize winning device 61 has a downward flow, it can be applied to the nail 64 and collected in the second out port 62. Therefore, the flow rate to the second out port 62 can be adjusted by adjusting the nail.

  The second out port 62 may be a winning port.

  The first special variation winning device 63 is provided on the left side of the second out port 62. The first special variation winning device 63 is an inclined surface whose upper surface descends in one direction from the right to the left, like the normal variation winning device 61, and functions as a slide member 63a operable in the front-rear direction. The upper end of the upper surface of the slide member 63 a is disposed at a position lower than the lower end of the upper surface of the slide member 61 a of the normal variation winning device 61.

  The slide member 63a of the first special variable prize winning device 63 is a slide-type special electric accessory that can be moved and opened in the front-rear direction by a first big prize opening solenoid 63b (see FIGS. 4 and 5). The first special variation winning device 63 is in a state where the first grand prize opening is closed (blocking state unfavorable for the player) from the closed state (a state advantageous to the player, a special game state) according to the result of the special figure display game. The predetermined game value (prize ball) is given to the player by facilitating the inflow of the game ball into the first big prize opening. Note that a first count switch 63d (see FIG. 5) serving as a detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the first big prize opening is disposed inside the big prize opening (winning area). The slide member 63a is controlled by a game control device 100 (see FIG. 5) described later.

  Next, the structure of the variable winning unit 60 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 3 is a structural diagram of the variable winning unit of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of this invention. 3A is a front perspective view, and FIG. 3B is a front view.

  The variable winning unit 60 has a rear surface attached to the game board 20 and a cover glass 6a attached to the front surface.

  The variable winning unit 60 includes two variable winning devices in the left-right direction (here, the normal variable winning device 61 on the right side and the first special variable winning device 63 on the left side) and the downstream drawing provided between the two variable winning devices. And a flow outlet (here, the second out port 62) through which the game ball can flow down.

  The variable winning device will be described taking the normal variable winning device 61 as an example. The normal variation winning device 61 includes a slide member 61a on the upper surface. The slide member 61a is inclined in one direction (a direction descending from right to left) and is operable in the front-rear direction. Further, the normal variation winning device 61 is provided on the bottom surface with a laterally inclined portion 61e having an inclined surface similar to the slide member 61a on the upper surface, and at a lower position on the lower end side of the laterally inclined portion 61e. A deep inclined portion 61f having an inclined surface that descends toward the bottom.

  The game ball that has won the normal variation winning device 61 flows down from the right inclined portion 61e to the left, and falls to the deep inclined portion 61f. Then, the game ball flows down from the front inclined portion 61f toward the rear, is provided on the back surface (rear surface) of the normal variation winning device 61, and discharges the game ball to the back surface of the game board 20. It passes through a continuous flow outlet 61g (see FIG. 8). The game ball that has passed through the flow-down port 61g is detected by the second start port switch 61d (see FIG. 5). Thereafter, the game ball is discharged out of the normal variation prize winning device 61, and flows down the second out-port flow basket 65 and is discharged out of the game board 20.

  The same applies to the first special variable winning device 63 of the other variable winning device. The first special variation winning device 63 includes a slide member 63a on the top surface and a laterally inclined portion 63e and a back inclined portion 61f on the bottom surface. The game balls that have won the first special variation winning device 63 flow down the horizontal inclined portion 63e and the deep inclined portion 61f, pass through the flow down port 63g, flow down the second out port flow down trap 65, and the game board 20 Discharged outside. The game ball that has passed through the flow-down port 63g is detected by the first count switch 63d (see FIG. 5).

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the slide member of the variable winning device for a gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 4A is a diagram before moving, that is, in a closed state where a game ball is not received, and FIG. 4B is a diagram after being moved, that is, in an open state where a game ball is easily received. Here, the normal variable winning device 61 will be described as an example of the variable winning device.

  The mode of the slide member 61a of the normal variation winning device 61 is changed by a general electric solenoid 61b as a driving device. The general electric solenoid 61b is provided with a spring 61c in front of the movable pin, and further provided with a solenoid side engaging portion 61i for attaching to the slide member 61a at the front end. On the other hand, the slide member 61 a is partially L-shaped and has a surface parallel to the game board 20. A slide member side engaging portion 61h is provided on this surface, and the slide member side engaging portion 61h is engaged with the solenoid side engaging portion 61i of the general-purpose solenoid 61b.

  The normal electric solenoid 61b is not normally energized and maintains the state shown in FIG. 4A (closed state in which no game ball is received). When the normal variation winning device 61 is converted to the open state, the ordinary solenoid 61b is energized, whereby the movable pin is drawn into the coil (rear), and as shown in FIG. The slide member 61a moves in the direction of the arrow. In this manner, the slide member 61a is moved to the rear of the game board 20, so that the game ball is likely to win the normal variation winning device 61.

  Then, the normal variation winning device 61 returns from the open state to the closed state after a predetermined time has elapsed. In this case, the slide member 61a returns to the state shown in FIG. 4A due to the restoring force of the spring 61c by stopping energization of the general-purpose solenoid 61b. As a result, the normal variation winning device 61 is in a closed state in which no game ball is accepted.

  The slide member 61a is provided with a reinforcing portion 61j so that the cross-sectional shape is a U-shape. As a result, the rigidity of the slide member 61a increases, so that deformation due to repeated movement in the front-rear direction can be prevented. Further, the durability of the slide member 61a can be improved.

  Here, the flow of the game in the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention and the details of the fluctuation display game (the normal figure fluctuation display game, the special figure fluctuation display game) will be described.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a game is performed by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) from a hitting ball launcher (not shown) toward the game area 21. The launched game balls flow down the game area 21 while changing the rolling direction by means of direction changing members such as obstacle nails and windmills arranged at various locations in the game area 21, and the normal start gate 25 and the general winning opening 26. The first start winning port 23, the normal variable winning device 61, the first special variable winning device 63 are won, or the first out port 29 or the second out port 62 provided at the bottom of the game area 21 is flowed. Ejected from the game area. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 26, the first start winning opening 23, the normal variable winning device 61, and the first special variable winning device 63, the number of winning balls corresponding to the type of the winning port is paid out. From the dispensing unit controlled by the control device 410, the sheet is discharged to the upper plate 11 a or the lower plate 13 of the front frame 5.

  As described above, a gate switch 25a (see FIG. 5) for detecting a game ball that has passed through the general diagram start gate 25 is provided in the general diagram start gate 25. The usual start gate 25 is, for example, a non-contact type switch. When the game ball that has been driven into the game area 21 passes through the usual figure start gate 25, it is detected by the gate switch 25a, and the usual figure variation display game is executed.

  In addition, a state in which the normal map change display game cannot be started, for example, when the normal map change display game has already been performed and the normal map change display game has not ended, or the result of the normal map change display game is a hit. When the normal variation winning device 61 is converted to the open state, when the game ball passes through the ordinary start gate 25, if the ordinary figure start memory number is less than the upper limit of the ordinary figure start memory number, the ordinary figure start memory number is added (+1). As a result, one ordinary start memory is stored. The memorized number of the general start prize is displayed on a general figure start memory display for notifying the start prize number of the collective display device 50 (not shown).

  In addition, in the normal chart start memory, a random number value for hit determination for determining a hit error of the normal figure fluctuation display game is stored, and when the random number value for hit determination coincides with the determination value In addition, a specific result mode (specific result) is derived by hitting the common map fluctuation display game.

  If the stop display of the usual figure change display game is a specific result, it becomes a hit of the ordinary figure, and the slide member 61a of the ordinary fluctuation winning device 61 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds). Become. This makes it easier for a game ball to win the normal variation winning device 61, and the number of times that the special figure 2 variation display game is executed increases.

  The winning ball to the first starting winning port 23 and the winning ball to the normal variation winning device 61 are respectively provided with a first starting port switch 23d (see FIG. 5) and a second starting port switch 61d (FIG. 5). ). A game ball won in the first start winning opening 23 is detected as a start winning ball of the special figure 1 variable display game and stored up to four, and a game ball won in the normal variable prize winning device 61 is special figure 2 It is detected as the start winning ball of the variable display game and is stored up to four.

  In addition, when the starting winning ball is detected, a big hit random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, and each variation pattern random number value are extracted, and the extracted random number value is stored in a special figure in the game control device 100 (see FIG. 5). Each area (a part of the RAM) is stored as a special figure start winning memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four times). The number stored in the special figure start winning memory is displayed on the start display number storage display (special figure 1 hold display, special figure 2 hold display) of the collective display device 50 and the display device. 30 display screens 31 are also displayed.

  The game control device 100 displays a special figure display (variable display device, special figure 1 display or special figure 2 display based on winning in the first start winning opening 23 or the normal variable prize winning device 61 or their start memory. Special figure 1 fluctuation display game or special figure 2 fluctuation display game.

  The special figure 1 fluctuation display game and the special figure 2 fluctuation display game are performed by variably displaying a plurality of special symbols (special figures and identification information) and then stopping and displaying a predetermined result form. In addition, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game that displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, etc.) corresponding to each special figure fluctuation display game on the display screen 31 is executed. ing.

  In the decorative special symbol variation display game on the display screen 31, for example, the decorative special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-described numbers is left (first special symbol), right (second special symbol), middle (third special symbol). The variation display is started in the order of symbols), the symbols that have been varied after a predetermined time are sequentially stopped, and the result of the special symbol variation display game is displayed. In addition, on the display screen 31, a decoration special figure variation display game with a special decoration pattern corresponding to the number of stored special figure winning memories is performed, and various effect displays such as the appearance of characters are performed in order to improve interest.

  Further, when the first start winning opening 23 or the normal variation winning device 61 is won at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the winning random number at the time of winning detection is a winning value), the special figure changes. As a result of the display game, a specific result mode (special result mode) is derived from the display symbols, and a big hit state (special game state) is obtained. Correspondingly, the display mode of the display screen 31 is also a special result mode (for example, any one of the numbers in the flat order such as “7, 7, 7”).

  At this time, the first special variable winning device 63 receives the game ball for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) by energizing the first big winning solenoid 63b (see FIG. 5). It is converted from an unclosed state (a state disadvantageous to the player) to an open state (a state advantageous to the player) in which a game ball can be easily received. That is, the first big prize opening provided in the first special variable prize winning device 63 opens widely until a predetermined time or a predetermined number of game balls win, so that the player can acquire many game balls during this time. The privilege is granted. The same applies to the case where the second special variable winning device is provided.

  Note that the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured such that the player makes a left or right strike according to the game state, and the special result mode (stop symbol) at the time of big hit is a specific symbol or the like. In such a case, the gaming state after the big hit gaming state becomes a short-time state. The time reduction state is continued until a special figure fluctuation display game (first special figure fluctuation display game or second special figure fluctuation display game) is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). During the short-time state, the gaming machine 1 is set so that the player makes a right turn.

  By the way, the special figure 1 display and the special figure 2 display may be separate displays or the same display, but each special figure variation display game is not executed simultaneously. In addition, for the decorative special figure variation display game on the display device 30, the special figure 1 variation display game and the special figure 2 variation display game may be executed in different display devices or in different display areas. It may be executed in the display device or display area. In this case, the decorative special figure fluctuation display game corresponding to the special figure 1 fluctuation display game and the special figure 2 fluctuation display game is prevented from being executed simultaneously.

  The special figure 2 variable display game is executed with priority over the special figure 1 variable display game. That is, when there is a start memory of the special figure 1 fluctuation display game and the special figure 2 fluctuation display game, and the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game becomes possible, the special figure 2 fluctuation display game is executed.

  In addition, in a state where the special figure 1 variable display game (special figure 2 variable display game) can be started and the start memory number is 0, a game ball is placed in the first start winning opening 23 (ordinary variable prize winning device 61). When is won, the start-up memory is stored as the start right is generated. At this time, the start memory number is incremented by 1, and the special figure 1 fluctuation display game (special figure 2 fluctuation display game) is immediately started based on the start memory, and at this time, the start memory number is decremented by one.

  On the other hand, a state in which the special figure 1 fluctuation display game (the special figure 2 fluctuation display game) cannot be started immediately, for example, the special figure 1 fluctuation display game or the special figure 2 fluctuation display game has already been performed, and the special figure fluctuation display game is ended. When a game ball is won in the first start winning opening 23 (ordinary variable winning device 61) in a state that is not played or in a special game state, if the start memory number is less than the upper limit number, the start memory number is One is added and one start memory is stored. And the state where the special figure 1 variable display game (the special figure 2 variable display game) can be started in the state where the starting memory number becomes 1 or more (the end of the previous special figure variable display game or the end of the special game state) Then, the start memory number is decremented by 1, and the special figure 1 variable display game (special figure 2 variable display game) is started based on the stored start memory.

  In the following description, when the special figure 1 fluctuation display game and the special figure 2 fluctuation display game are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a special figure fluctuation display game.

  Although not particularly limited, the first start port switch 23d in the first start winning port 23 described above, the second start port switch 61d in the normal variation winning device 61, the gate switch 25a, and the winning port switch 26a. To 26n, the first count switch 63d is provided with a magnetic detection coil, and a non-contact type magnetic proximity sensor (hereinafter referred to as proximity) that detects a game ball using a phenomenon in which a magnetic field changes when a metal approaches the coil. Called switch). As the front frame open detection switch 5d on the front frame 5 or the glass frame open detection switch 6d provided on the glass frame 6, a micro switch having a mechanical contact can be used.

  Next, the game control device 100 and the effect control device 200 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the effect control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  A game control device 100 shown in FIG. 5 is a main control device (main board) that comprehensively controls games in the gaming machine 1. A power supply device 450, a payout control device 410, and an effect control device 200 are connected to the game control device 100. The game control device 100 transmits a control signal (command) to the payout control device 410 and the effect control device 200 to instruct execution of various processes. Furthermore, the game control device 100 is connected to various switches and solenoids to be controlled.

  The game control device 100 includes a CPU unit 110 that performs various arithmetic processes, an input unit 120 that receives input of various signals, and an output unit 130 that outputs various signals and control signals. The CPU unit 110, the input unit 120, and the output unit 130 are connected to each other by a data bus 180.

  The input unit 120 receives signals output from various switches provided on the game board and the like and signals output from the payout control device 410. The input unit 120 includes a proximity interface (I / F) 121 and input ports 122 and 123.

  The input ports 122 and 123 receive a signal input via the proximity I / F 121 or directly receive a signal input from the outside. Information input to the input ports 122 and 123 is provided to the CPU unit 110 and the like via the data bus 180.

  The proximity I / F 121 is an interface that receives signals output from various switches, converts the input signals, and outputs the converted signals to the input port 122. The proximity I / F 121 is connected to a first start port switch 23d, a second start port switch 61d, a gate switch 25a, winning port switches 26a to 26n, and a first count switch 63d.

  The first start port switch 23d is a switch that detects that a game ball has won the first start winning port 23. The second start port switch 61d is a switch for detecting that the game ball has won the normal variation winning device 61. The gate switch 25a is a switch for detecting that the game ball has passed through the usual start gate 25. The winning opening switches 26 a to 26 n are switches that detect that the game ball has won the general winning opening 26.

  The detection signals of the first start port switch 23d and the second start port switch 61d are output to the input port 122 and also output to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the inverting circuit 112 of the CPU unit 110. This is because the signal input terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 is designed to detect a low level as an effective level.

  The first count switch 63 d is a switch that detects that a game ball has won a first grand prize port of the first special variation winning device 63. When a winning of a game ball is detected by the first count switch 63d, the number of game balls won in each big winning opening is counted, and the counted number of game balls is stored in a memory provided in the game control device 100. Is done.

  Since the voltage of the input signal to the proximity I / F 121 is normally within a predetermined range, according to the proximity I / F 121, disconnection of lead wires in various switches based on voltage values of signals from the various switches, Short circuit, abnormal voltage value, etc. can be detected. When such an abnormality is detected, the proximity I / F 121 outputs a signal indicating the abnormality from the abnormality detection output terminal.

  In addition, since the output value (ON / OFF) of the signal input to the proximity I / F 121 is switched by attaching / detaching the connector of the switch connected to the proximity I / F 121, the proximity I / F 121 is not connected to the switch. Even so, the output is kept constant.

  Further, signals from the magnetic sensor switch 39a and the vibration sensor switch 39b are directly input to the input port 122, and the front port opening detection switch (SW) 5d and the glass frame opening detection switch (SW) 6d are input to the input port 123. The signal is input directly. Various signals from the payout control device 410 are also input to the input port 123.

  The magnetic sensor switch 39a detects a magnetic force in order to detect an illegal act of manipulating the trajectory of the launched game ball with a magnet. The vibration sensor switch 39b detects the vibration of the gaming machine 1 in order to detect an illegal act that vibrates the gaming machine 1.

  The front frame opening detection SW 5d detects that the front frame 5 has been opened. The front frame opening detection SW 5 d is set to ON when the front frame 5 is released from the main body frame 2, and is set to OFF when the front frame 5 is closed by the main body frame 2.

  The glass frame open detection SW 6d detects that the glass frame 6 has been opened. The glass frame open detection SW 6 d is set to ON when the glass frame 6 is released from the front frame 5, and is set to OFF when the glass frame 6 is closed to the front frame 5.

  The CPU unit 110 of the game control device 100 includes a game microcomputer 111, an inverting circuit 112, and a crystal oscillator 113.

  The gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU 111a, a ROM 111b, and a RAM 111c. The gaming microcomputer 111 executes programs stored in the ROM 111b based on signals input via the input unit 120 and executes various processes such as a big win lottery. . The gaming microcomputer 111 is connected via the output unit 130 to a collective display device including a gaming state notification LED 32, a state indicator 50, etc., a general electric solenoid 61b, a first big prize opening solenoid 63b, an effect control device 200, and A control signal is transmitted to the payout control device 410 to control the gaming machine 1 in an integrated manner. The gaming microcomputer 111 selects a port for inputting or outputting a signal by chip select.

  The ROM 111b is a non-volatile storage medium and stores programs, data, and the like for game control.

  The RAM 111c is a volatile storage medium and is used as a work area for temporarily storing information (for example, random number values) necessary for game control.

  The inversion circuit 112 inverts the logical value of the signal (the signal from the first start port switch 23d and the second start port switch 61d) input via the proximity I / F 121 and outputs the inverted value to the gaming microcomputer 111.

  The crystal oscillator 113 is configured as an operating clock source of a hard random number for performing timer interrupt, system clock signal, jackpot lottery and the like.

  The output unit 130 of the game control apparatus 100 includes ports 131a to 131e, buffers 132a and 132b, drivers 133a to 133d, and a photocoupler 134.

  The ports 131a to 131e accept signals input via the data bus 180.

  The buffers 132a and 132b temporarily hold signals input via the data bus 180 and the ports 131a and 131b.

  The drivers 133a to 133d generate various drive signals from the signals input via the ports 131c to 131e and output them to each device.

  The photocoupler 134 is configured to be connectable to an external inspection device 170, and removes noise from various signals that are input and output to shape the waveforms of the various signals. Information is transmitted and received between the photocoupler 134 and the inspection device 170 by serial communication.

  Information output from the CPU unit 110 by parallel communication is transmitted to the payout control device 410 via the port 131a. Since there is no need to secure one-way communication for the payout control device 410, a control signal is directly transmitted from the port 131a to the payout control board of the payout control device 410.

  The payout control device 410 discharges the winning ball from the payout unit (not shown) based on the prize ball command signal from the game control device 100, or the payout unit based on the lending request signal from the card unit (not shown). Or renting a ball. The payout control device 410 outputs a payout abnormality status signal, a shot ball shortage switch signal, and an overflow switch signal to the game control device 100 when a failure such as a ball breakage or a failure occurs.

  The payout abnormality status signal is a signal output when the game ball is not paid out normally. The payout chute ball switch signal is a signal that is output when there is a shortage of game balls before payout. The overflow switch signal is a signal that is output when a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the lower tray 13 (see FIG. 1).

  The effect control apparatus 200 receives a data strobe signal (SSTB) from the port 131a of the output unit 130 and an 8-bit data signal from the port 131b via the buffer 132a. The data strobe signal (SSTB) is a 1-bit signal indicating whether data is valid or invalid. The 8 + 1 bit signal (subcommand) from the buffer 132a is output by parallel communication. The buffer 132a is provided to secure one-way communication so that a signal cannot be transmitted from the effect control device 200 to the game control device 100. The subcommands transmitted to the effect control device 200 include effect control command signals such as a change start command, a customer waiting demo command, a fanfare command, a probability information command, and an error designation command.

  A signal output from the CPU unit 110 is input to the general electric solenoid 61b and the first big prize opening solenoid 63b via the port 131c and the driver 133a. The first grand prize winning solenoid 63b operates the slide member 63a (see FIG. 2) of the first special variable winning device 63, and the general electric solenoid 61b operates the slide member 61a of the normal variable winning device 61 to the open state.

  The collective display device includes a gaming state notification LED 32, a state indicator 50, and the like. The anode terminal of the LEDs of the collective display device is connected to the driver 133c via a segment line, and the driver 133c and the port 131d are connected. The cathode terminal of the LEDs of the collective display device is connected to the driver 133b via a digit line, and the driver 133b and the port 131c are connected. An on / off drive signal from the driver 133c is input to the anode terminal of the LEDs of the collective display device, and an on / off drive signal is output to the driver 133b from the cathode terminal of the LEDs of the collective display device.

  The external information terminal 160 is a terminal for outputting game data such as a start signal indicating the start of the variable display game and a special prize signal indicating the occurrence of the big hit gaming state to the information collecting terminal device. The game data is output to the external information terminal 660 via the port 131e and the driver 133d.

  The game control device 100 is configured to be connectable to an external test firing test device via a relay board 150. The test firing test apparatus is an apparatus for performing a type test of the gaming machine 1 in a predetermined engine. The test firing test apparatus includes signals from the first start port switch 23d, the second start port switch 61d, the gate switch 25a, the winning port switches 26a to 26n, and the first count switch 63d, the power transmission solenoid 61b, and the first Signals necessary for the trial test, such as a signal output to the big prize opening solenoid 63b, are input.

  The game control device 100 is connected to the power supply device 450 via a Schmitt circuit 124 provided in the input unit 120. The Schmitt circuit 124 is a circuit that removes fluctuation (noise) of the input signal in order to prevent the operation of the gaming machine 1 from becoming unstable when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. The Schmitt circuit 124 receives a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal from the power supply device 450.

  The power supply device 450 includes a normal power supply unit including an AC-DC converter that generates a DC32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power supply, and a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC12V and DC5V from the DC32V voltage. 460, a backup power supply unit 470 that supplies a power supply voltage to the RAM 111c in the gaming microcomputer 111 at the time of a power failure, a power failure monitoring circuit and an initialization switch, and notifies the game control device 100 of the occurrence and recovery of the power failure. And a control signal generation unit 480 that generates and outputs control signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal.

  The backup power supply unit 470 is a power supply for backing up game data stored in the RAM 111 c of the game microcomputer 111. The game control device 100 restores the gaming state before the power failure based on the game data held in the RAM 111c after the power failure is restored.

  The control signal generator 480 monitors the input voltage (guaranteed DC 32V) of the switching regulator that generates DC 12V and DC 5V. When the detected voltage is DC17.2V to DC20.0V, it is determined that a power failure has occurred, and a power failure monitoring signal is output from the control signal generator 480. The power failure monitoring signal is input to the input port 123 of the input unit 120 via the Schmitt circuit 124. After the power failure monitoring signal is output, the power failure monitoring circuit outputs a reset signal. The reset signal is input to each port 131a to 131e of the gaming microcomputer 111 and the output unit 130 via the Schmitt circuit 124. When the game control device 100 receives a power failure monitoring signal, the game control device 100 performs a predetermined power failure process, and stops the operation of the CPU unit 110 after receiving a reset signal.

  The control signal generation unit 480 includes an initialization switch (not shown), and an initialization switch signal is output from the control signal generation unit 480 when the initialization switch is in an ON state when the power is turned on. The initialization switch signal is input to the input port 123 of the input unit 120 via the Schmitt circuit 124. The initialization switch signal is a signal forcibly initializing information stored in the RAM 111c of the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM of the payout control device 410.

  The effect control device 200 shown in FIG. 6 controls the video under the control of the main control microcomputer 210 (1st CPU) 210 composed of an amusement chip (IC) and the main control microcomputer 210 in the same manner as the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100. And a video display processor (VDP) 230 that performs image processing for video display on the display device 30 (see FIG. 1) in accordance with commands and data from the video control microcomputer 220. And a sound source LSI 205 that reproduces various melodies and sound effects from the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker 10b.

  The main control microcomputer 210 and the video control microcomputer 220 are respectively connected to PROMs (Programmable Read Only Memory) 202 and 203 storing programs executed by the CPUs, and the VDP 230 stores character images and video data. The image ROM 204 is connected, and the sound source LSI 205 is connected with an audio ROM 206 storing audio data. The main control microcomputer 210 analyzes a command from the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100, instructs the video control microcomputer 220 about the content of the output video, instructs the sound source LSI 205 to reproduce sound, LED, etc. Processing such as lighting, motor drive control, production time management, etc. is executed.

  RAMs 211 and 221 that provide work areas for the main control microcomputer 210 and the video control microcomputer 220 are provided in the respective chips. Note that the RAMs 211 and 221 that provide the work area may be provided outside the chip.

  Data transmission / reception is performed between the main control microcomputer 210 and the video control microcomputer 220 and between the main control microcomputer 210 and the sound source LSI 205 in a serial manner. On the other hand, the main control microcomputer 210 and the VDP 230 are configured to transmit and receive data in a parallel manner. By transmitting and receiving data in the parallel system, commands and data can be transmitted in a shorter time than in the serial system.

  The VDP 230 includes an ultra-high speed VRAM (video RAM) 231 used for developing and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 204, and a scaler 232 for enlarging and reducing the image. And a signal conversion circuit 233 for generating a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 30 by the LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method.

  A vertical synchronization signal VSYNC is output from the VDP 230 to the main control microcomputer 210 in order to synchronize the image of the display device 30 and the lighting of the LEDs provided on the front frame 5 and the game board. Further, the VDP 230 notifies the video control microcomputer 220 that it is waiting to receive commands and data from the interrupt control signals INT0 to n and the video control microcomputer 220 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in the VRAM 231. A wait signal WAIT is output.

  From the video control microcomputer 220 to the main control microcomputer 210, a synchronization signal SYNC that informs that the video control microcomputer 220 is operating normally and gives command transmission timing is output.

  Between the main control microcomputer 210 and the tone generator LSI 205, a call signal CTS and a response signal RTS are exchanged in order to transmit and receive commands and data by the handshake method.

  The video control microcomputer 220 uses a CPU that is faster than the main control microcomputer 210. By providing the video control microcomputer 220 separately from the main control microcomputer 210 and sharing the processing, it is possible to display on the display device 30 a fast moving image on a large screen that is difficult to achieve with the main control microcomputer 210 alone. In addition, an increase in cost can be suppressed as compared with the case where two CPUs having processing capabilities equivalent to those of the video control microcomputer 220 are used.

  The effect control device 200 includes an interface chip (command I / F) 201 for receiving a command transmitted from the game control device 100. The effect control device 200 receives the change start command, the customer waiting demo command, the fanfare command, the probability information command, the error designation command, and the like transmitted from the game control device 100 as the effect control command signal via the command I / F 201. To do. Since the game microcomputer 111 of the game control apparatus 100 operates at DC 5V and the main control microcomputer 210 of the effect control apparatus 200 operates at DC 3.3V, the command I / F 201 has a signal level conversion function. Yes.

  The effect control device 200 controls a panel decoration LED control circuit 241 that controls a panel decoration device 260 including LEDs and the like provided on the center case and the game board, and a frame decoration device 261 that includes LEDs and the like provided on the front frame 5 and the like. A frame decoration LED control circuit 242, a board effect motor / SOL (solenoid) control circuit 243 for driving and controlling a board effect device 270 including an electric accessory that enhances the effect of the effect in cooperation with the effect display on the display device 30, and a movable type A frame effect motor control circuit 244 for driving and controlling a frame effect device 271 including an illumination drive motor for the illumination 9 is provided. These control circuits 241 to 244 are connected to the main control microcomputer 210 via an address / data bus 240.

  Further, the effect control device 200 detects an effect button switch (SW) 251 for detecting that the effect button 16 (see FIG. 1) is operated and a game ball passing through the second out port 62 of the variable winning unit 60. A switch (SW) input circuit 250 for detecting a second outlet switch (SW) 62b and the like and transmitting a detection signal to the main control microcomputer 210, and an audio power amplifier for driving the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker 10b. Amplifier circuits 207 and 208 are provided.

  The normal power supply 460 of the power supply device 450 is configured to be capable of generating a plurality of types of voltages in order to supply a predetermined level of DC voltage to the effect control device 200 and the electronic components controlled by the effect control device 200. Yes. Specifically, in addition to DC 32V for driving the drive motor and solenoid, DC 12V for driving the display device 30 including a liquid crystal panel, DC 5V as the power supply voltage of the command I / F 201, the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker It is possible to generate a DC 18V for driving the speaker 10b and a voltage of NDC 24V used as a reference for these DC voltages or for turning on the power monitor lamp.

  The reset signal RST generated by the control signal generation unit 480 of the power supply device 450 is supplied to the main control microcomputer 210, the video control microcomputer 220, the VDP 230, the tone generator LSI 205, and the various control circuits 241 to 244, 207, 208. To the reset state. The power supply device 450 has a function of generating and supplying a reset signal for the VDP 230 using a general-purpose port of the video control microcomputer 220. Thereby, the cooperation of the operations of the video control microcomputer 220 and the VDP 230 can be improved.

(Launching direction processing)
Then, the process performed by the production control apparatus 200 is demonstrated. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the firing direction instruction processing according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The firing direction instruction process is one of interrupt processes executed after an interrupt is permitted in the main process executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 of the effect control device 200. The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 executes the CPU initialization process, sets initial values necessary for the execution of various processes in the RAM 211, executes the random number initialization process, and permits an interrupt.

  In the gaming board 20 of the first embodiment, the game board 20 is left-handed when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, and in the case of a specific gaming state or a special gaming state (a big hit state) such as a general power support state or a short time state. Players are more profitable if they are right-handed. Even if the player makes a right turn in the normal gaming state, the gaming ball only flows down to the second out port 62. Therefore, in this process, when the game ball is flowing down to the second out port 62 in the normal game state, the player is instructed to launch in the left direction. The second out port 62 is provided with a second out port switch (SW) 62b for detecting a game ball flowing down, and the switch is turned on when the game ball is detected.

  First, the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 determines whether or not the gaming state is the normal gaming state (S701). When the game state is not normal (the result of S701 is “N”), the firing direction instruction process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 is in the normal gaming state (the result of S701 is “Y”), the second out port SW62b is turned on and the game ball passing through the second out port 62 is removed. It is determined whether or not it has been detected (S702). If no game ball is detected (the result of S702 is “N”), the firing direction instruction process is terminated.

  Then, when the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 210 detects a game ball passing through the second out port 62 (result of S702 is “Y”), the firing direction for notifying the player that left-handing is recommended An instruction process is executed (S703), and the firing direction instruction process is terminated.

  Since the player is notified of the appropriate firing direction in this way, the player can perform a left strike and a right strike. In particular, it is considered not to be excessively disadvantageous for a game beginner who tends to turn right by turning the operation unit 14 to the right too much. Further, since the left strike and the right strike are possible, the game area can be used effectively.

[Sphere discharge passage structure]
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the ball discharge passage according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The gaming board 20 of the first embodiment is provided with a first out port 29 and a second out port 62 for collecting game balls that have not won a winning opening or the like. The first out port 29 is provided in the lower center of the game area 21, and the second out port 62 is provided in the variable winning unit 60 provided in the lower right side of the game area 21.

  The game balls that have entered the first out-port 29 flow down the first out-port flow bar 290 and are discharged to the back surface of the game board 20. On the other hand, the game ball that has entered the second out port 62 flows down the second out port downhole 65 and is discharged to the back surface of the game board 20. Here, not only the game ball that has entered the second out port 62 but also the normal variable winning device 61 and the first special variable winning device 63 that are the winning ports of the variable winning unit 60 are included in the second outflow ram 65. The winning game balls will also flow down. For this reason, the 2nd out mouth downfall rod 65 has the width of the same right and left as the variable winning unit 60.

  The first outflow casket 290 and the second outflow casket 65 are provided separately on the back surface of the game board 20. Then, the first outflow basin 290 and the second outflow basin 65 do not merge at the game board 20 with a limited degree of freedom in the vertical direction, but merge at the lower surface of the lower game frame 5. . Since it is not necessary to bring the game ball flowing down the right end of the game area 21 to the center on the back side of the game board 20, there is no difficulty in the structure of the back side of the game board 20, and the back side can be widely used.

  Further, the normal variable winning device 61, the second out port 62, and the first special variable winning device 63 of the variable winning unit 60 have a second start port switch 61d and a second out port for detecting the game balls that have flowed down respectively. A switch 62b and a first count switch 63d are provided. For this reason, even if the second outflow sag 65 is common, it is possible to calculate the ratio of the winning ball to the right-out game ball and the falling sphere to the second out port 62. For this reason, it is possible to determine the efficiency at which the right-handed game ball is won in the first special variation winning device 63 during the special game (big hit), that is, the so-called degree of ball sharpening. Since the game information is easily digitized, it is easy to adjust the nail 64 disposed above the second out port 62.

(Effects of the first embodiment)
According to the first embodiment of the present invention, two variable winning devices are arranged in the left-right direction, and a flow-down port is provided between the two variable winning devices, and the opening / closing member of the variable winning device is the game board 20. Slide in a direction perpendicular to. Thereby, the limited game area 21 can be used effectively (especially in the height direction).

  Further, in the first embodiment, since the second out port 62 is provided as a downflow port, there is no need to flow down the game ball to the first out port 29 provided below the game area 21 for collecting the game ball. There is room in the gaming area in the height direction. In addition, since the collection of game balls is distributed to the two outlets, ball clogging can be prevented.

  In addition, since nails are disposed above the flow outlet, it is possible to directly adjust the flow of the game ball to the flow outlet.

  Further, the slide member, which is an opening / closing member of the variable prize device arranged in parallel with the downflow opening, has a slide member 61a in which the upper end of the slide member 63a arranged on the downstream side in the downflow direction of the game ball is arranged on the upstream side. It is provided so that the height direction is lower than the lower end of the. As a result, the game ball that has flowed down to the variable winning unit 60 may flow down to the downstream variable winning device 63 even if it cannot win the upstream variable winning device 61, so that the game ball flows down. Is smooth and gaming efficiency is good.

  In addition, since the game ball flowing down to the flow-down port (second out port 62) of the variable winning unit 60 is detected, it is possible to notify the player of the appropriate direction of launching the game ball.

  In addition, a first out-port ram 290 where a game ball entering the first out-port 29 provided below the center of the game area flows down, and a second out-port 62 of the variable winning unit 60 provided below the right-hand side of the game region, A second out-port flow bowl 65 from which a game ball entering either the normal variation winning device 61 or the first special variation winning device 63 flows down is separately provided on the back of the game board 20. Since the downflow rivets are not forcibly merged below the back surface of the game board 20 that is restricted in the vertical direction, the back surface structure of the game board 20 can be prevented from becoming complicated, and the back surface can be widely used.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
As a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention, five patterns of the structure and arrangement of the variable winning unit 60 are given. FIG. 9 shows a variable winning unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the variable winning unit in FIG. 9A will be described. In the variable winning unit 60 of the first embodiment, the game ball flow line descends in one direction (from right to left), but the variable winning unit 60 in FIG. Are provided symmetrically with respect to the downstream outlet 62. In other words, the variable swing winning device 61 on the right side has an inclined slide member 61a that descends from right to left, whereas the variable swing winning device 63 on the left side has an inclined slide member 63a that rises from right to left. As a result, the game ball that has been hit to the right always flows down to the winning port or the out port of the variable winning unit 60. For this reason, game balls having different firing directions (right-handed or left-handed) can be sorted, and the number of game balls in each firing direction can be accurately collected.

  Next, the variable winning unit in FIG. 9B will be described. The variable winning unit 60 of the first embodiment is arranged so that the game ball flow line is gently continuous with the guide rail of the game area 21 up to the first out port 29, but FIG. The variable winning unit 60 is arranged with a step on the upper side. A decoration area 40 is provided below the variable winning unit 60, that is, to the right of the first out port 29. For example, a model name or the like is displayed in the decoration area 40. Thereby, the decorativeness of the game board 20 can be further improved.

  Next, the variable winning unit in FIG. 9C will be described. The variable winning unit 60 in FIG. 9C has the same arrangement as the variable winning unit 60 in FIG. 9B, and a decoration area 40 is also provided. In the variable winning unit 60 of the first embodiment, the game balls that have flowed down to the winning ports 61 and 63 and the downflow port 62 pass through the common downflow basket 65, but in FIG. 9C, A flow-down passage 66 through which the game ball flowing down to the flow-down port 62 passes is separately provided. The flow-down passage 66 is disposed behind the decoration area 40, and an outflow port 67 is provided so that a game ball that has entered the flow-down port 62 flows down to the first out port 29. Moreover, the decoration area | region 40 and the flow-down channel | path 66 are formed with a clear member. Thereby, since the player can visually recognize the game ball flowing down the downflow passage 66, the interest of the game can be enhanced. In addition, it is possible to clearly recognize a game ball that can be won in the variable winning device 61 on the right side but cannot be won in the variable winning device 63 on the left side. Therefore, it can be used as a reference for selecting a gaming machine.

  Note that a sensor 62 b that detects a game ball flowing down the flow-down port 62 may be attached to the flow-down passage 66. The game balls that have flowed down to the flow-down port 62 are collected at the first out port 29, but the number of game balls flowing down the flow-down port 62 can be counted, which is useful for collecting highly accurate game information.

  Next, the variable winning unit in FIG. 9D will be described. Although the variable winning unit 60 of the first embodiment is formed by two variable winning devices and one downstream outlet, the variable winning unit 60 of FIG. 9D is further provided with one variable winning device 69. One downstream port 68 is added. Here, the added variable winning device 69 is the second special variable winning device. As a result, it is possible to diversify the opening patterns of the special variable winning device in the special gaming state while securing the gaming area 21 with the minimum arrangement space. Therefore, the game area 21 can be used more effectively and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  Next, the variable winning unit in FIG. 9E will be described. Here, the width T of the downflow port 62 is made wider than that in the first embodiment. Specifically, the width T is set to at least twice the diameter of the game ball. This facilitates adjustment of the nail 64 that causes the game ball to flow down to the flow down port 62. When the width T of the downflow opening 62 is set to be wide, the winning ratio of the left variable winning device 63 is reduced unless the downward flow from the right variable winning device 61 to the left variable winning device 63 is increased. End up. Therefore, the height in the vertical direction of the lower end of the upper surface of the slide member 61a of the variable winning device 61 on the right side is made higher than the upper end of the upper surface of the slide member 63a of the variable winning device 63 on the left. As a result, the downward flow from the right variable winning device 61 to the left variable winning device 63 can be strengthened, so that the winning rate to the left variable winning device 63 and the flow rate to the downstream port 62 are balanced. be able to.

(Second Embodiment)
Subsequently, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the first embodiment, the variable winning unit 60 is provided on the lower right side of the game area 21. Then, the plurality of variable winning devices are arranged in parallel in the left-right direction, and a flow-down opening is provided between the plurality of variable winning devices. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, a plurality of variable winning devices have a variable winning unit 70 arranged in the vertical direction on the right edge of the center case 22.

  FIG. 10 is a front view of the game board according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the right side of the game area 21 is changed. In the second embodiment, three variable winning devices 71 to 73 are provided on the right edge of the armor portion 22a protruding from the center case 22. And three guide members 74-76 are provided in the guide rail 21a which divides the game field 21 corresponding to each variable prize device. In addition, a general start gate 25 is provided above the central variable prize apparatus arranged in the vertical direction. The three variable winning devices 71 to 73, the three guide members 74 to 76, and the normal start gate 25 are the variable winning unit 70 of the second embodiment. Details of the variable winning unit 70 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the second embodiment, a warp channel 81 into which a game ball flowing down the left game area 21 can flow into the center case 22 and a lower side of the display device 30 are provided. And a stage portion 82 on which the game ball that has been rolled is provided. The game ball rolling on the stage portion 82 is returned to the game area 21 from an outlet provided in the center of the stage portion 82. Since the game ball flowing out from the stage unit 82 is returned to the game area 21 from above the first start winning opening 23, there is a high possibility of winning in the first starting winning opening 23.

  FIG. 11 is an enlarged front view of the variable winning unit according to the second embodiment of this invention. The variable winning unit 70 is arranged from the top in the order of the first special variable winning device 71, the normal variable winning device 72, and the second special variable winning device 73. And the 1st guide member 74-the 3rd guide member 76 are arrange | positioned corresponding to each variable prize-winning apparatus.

  The first special variation winning device 71 is provided on the side surface of the arc formed by hollowing out the edge of the armor portion 22a of the center case 22 in a circular arc shape, and on the surface formed by hollowing out and continuing to the game area 21. The slide member 71a is formed. A first big prize opening is provided below the slide member 71a. When the slide member 71a is moved rearward, a game ball can be won in the first big prize opening. Note that the slide member 71a is gently inclined toward the lower side of the game area 21. Thereby, in the closed state where the slide member 71a does not operate, the game ball flowing down on the slide member 71a flows down to the downstream of the game area 21 as shown by the arrow.

  Here, in order for the game ball to flow down the slide member 71a of the first special variation winning device 71, it is necessary to adjust the firing force of the right-handed game ball. If the firing force is strong, it will flow down the game area 21 along the guide rail 21a, and will pass through the first special variation winning device 71 provided inside the game area 21. Therefore, a first guide member 74 made of an elastic member such as rubber protruding from the inside of the game area 21 is provided on the guide rail 21a located above the slide member 71a. As a result, the game ball having a strong launching force hits the first guide member 74 to attenuate the momentum, and falls downward.

  Further, the ordinary variable winning device 72 and the second special variable winning device 73 are also provided in the same manner as the first special variable winning device 71. Further, a second guide member 75 for guiding the flow direction so that the game ball flowing down from the slide member 71a of the first special variable winning device 71 flows down the upper surface of the slide member 72a of the normal variable winning device 72 is provided from the guide rail 21a. Protrusively provided. Similarly, the third guide member 76 that guides the flow direction so that the game ball flowing down from the slide member 72a of the normal variation winning device 72 flows down the upper surface of the slide member 73a of the second special variable winning device 73 is the guide rail 21a. It is provided by protruding from. The second guide member 75 and the third guide member 76 may be an elastic material or a resin material.

  In addition, the ordinary start gate 25 is disposed above the normal variation winning device 72. Above the general start gate 25 is provided a planting area in which a nail capable of changing the flow direction of the game ball can be planted, and a nail 77 is provided, and the game ball passing through the general start gate 25 It is possible to adjust the number.

  The first special variable winning device 71 and the second special variable winning device 73 according to the second embodiment of the present invention correspond to the first special variable winning device 63 and the second special variable winning device according to the first embodiment. To do. Further, the ordinary variation winning device 72 of the second embodiment corresponds to the ordinary variation winning device 61 of the first embodiment. Therefore, since the configurations of the game control device 100 and the effect control device 200 in the second embodiment are applied to the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

[Downstream conversion member]
Next, with reference to FIG. 12, two patterns will be described in the case of further adding a member for changing the flow direction of the game ball. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a flow direction changing member according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 12A is a view in which a flow direction changing member 78 is added above the first special variation winning device 71. The flow direction changing member 78 causes the game ball that has hit the first guide member 74 to flow down (ie, at the upper end side) or downstream (at the lower end side) of the slide member 71a. The game ball flowing down the slide member 71a follows the first route having a long flow time (passing distance) flowing down the slide member 71a, and the game ball flowing down the slide member 71a is the first route. The second route having a shorter flow time (distance) is followed.

  Thus, according to the flow route branched by the flow direction changing member 78, the winning probability to the big winning opening of the first special variation winning device 71 accompanying the opening of the slide member 71a is different. Since the game ball flowing down the first route has a longer flow time for flowing down the slide member 61a than the game ball flowing down the second route, the possibility of winning is increased. Since the player is interested in which route to flow down, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  FIG. 12B is a view in which a flow direction changing member 78 is added above the normal variation winning device 72. The flow direction changing member 78 causes the game ball that has passed through the normal start gate 25 to flow downstream (that is, on the upper end side) of the slide member 72a.

  Providing the bent flow direction conversion member 78 bent in this way increases the flow time for the game ball to flow down the slide member 72a, so that the possibility of winning the normal variation winning device 72 increases.

  It should be noted that the flow direction changing member 78 shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B may be applied to any of the three variable winning devices. In addition, the normal start gate 25 may be provided above the first special variable winning device 71.

(Effect of the second embodiment)
According to the second embodiment of the present invention, when the game ball that has flowed down the upper surface of the sliding member of the upper variable winning device does not win the variable winning device, the upper surface of the sliding member of the lower variable winning device. A plurality of variable winning devices are arranged in the vertical direction so as to flow down. As a result, the downward force of the game ball having a strong launching force is attenuated by the slide member, so that it is possible to prevent the falling of the force of the downward force and the damage of the member in contact with the game ball. In addition, game balls that have not won the upper prize-winning device can be awarded to the lower prize-winning device, so that it is possible to flow down the game area while aiming to win each of the variable prize-winning devices. Therefore, while effectively using the limited game area, it is possible to prevent the generation of useless balls and increase the winning efficiency.

  In addition, a guide member is provided that guides the flow direction so that the game ball that has flowed down the upper surface of the slide member of the upper variable winning device flows down the upper surface of the slide member of the lower variable winning device. A game ball that has not won the upper variable winning device is surely guided to the next variable winning device and given a chance to win, so that it is possible to increase the winning efficiency and enhance the interest of the game.

  Further, a flow direction changing member that branches into a first route and a second route is provided above the variable winning device. Since the possibility of winning varies depending on the route through which the game balls flow down, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

(Modification of the second embodiment)
Here, with reference to FIG. 13 to FIG. 16, a variable winning unit according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described. The modification is based on the second embodiment, and the difference in structure and further obtained effects will be described.

  First, FIG. 13 shows a variable winning unit according to Modification 1 of the second embodiment of the present invention. In the first modification, the variable winning device arranged at the top is the normal variable winning device 72. As in the second embodiment, a normal start gate 25 is provided above the normal variation winning device 72. Further, a second out port 79 is provided instead of the variable winning device arranged in the center in the second embodiment. A nail 80 that can adjust the inflowing game ball is provided above the second out port 79.

  By arranging the second out port 79 in the center of the variable winning unit 70 in this way, the number of game balls flowing down to the second special variable winning device 73 below can be adjusted.

  Next, FIG. 14 shows a variable winning unit according to the second modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. In the second modified example, a second out port 79 is provided instead of the first special variable winning device 71 arranged at the uppermost position in the second embodiment. Then, in the second special variation winning device 73 arranged at the lowermost position, the game ball guided to the slide member 73 a is guided to the stage portion 82 of the center case 22.

  Thereby, the inflow of the game ball to the second out port 79 is also controlled by the operation of the slide member 79a. Even if the slide member 73a of the second special variation winning device 73 is in the closed state, the game ball is guided to the stage portion 82, so that there is a possibility that the first starting winning opening 23 will be won. Therefore, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  Next, FIGS. 15 and 16 show a variable winning unit according to the third modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. In the third modification, the arrangement pattern of the variable winning device of the variable winning unit 70 is changed.

  FIG. 15 shows a pattern in which a plurality of variable winning devices 71 to 73 are arranged side by side and shifted in the vertical direction. At this time, a guiding member is arranged between the two variable winning devices at a middle point in the vertical and horizontal directions in order to smoothly flow the game ball. In addition, a space in which a game ball can flow down is provided between the variable winning device and the guide member.

  FIG. 16 shows an arrangement pattern in the case where the slide member of the variable winning device has an inclined surface in an inverted V shape instead of an inclination in one direction. At this time, the plurality of variable winning devices 71 to 73 are arranged in a triangular shape, and the sliding members of the variable winning devices 72 and 73 in which the game balls flowing down the slide member 71a of the upper variable winning device 71 are arranged below both sides. It flows down to 72a and 73a.

  In this way, in addition to the arrangement of the variable prize apparatus of the second embodiment, there is an arrangement pattern that can increase the winning efficiency, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 17A to 17G and FIGS. FIG. 17A to FIG. 17G are examples of the notification effect related to the operation of the effect button according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and show patterns 1 to 11.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present invention is provided with an effect button (effect operation unit) 16 that receives an operation input from a player according to the game. Then, on the display screen 31 of the display device 30, an effect display related to the operation of the effect button 16 such as an effect of promoting the operation of the effect button 16 and a display notifying the operable time is executed.

  In the third embodiment of the present invention, display of information related to the operation of the effect button 16 that can be easily recognized by the player will be described. In the display device 30, when the operation of the effect button 16 becomes possible, the effect button and a gauge indicating the operable time are displayed on the display screen 31. The gauge displays the remaining operation time as a meter.

  In pattern 1, the length (horizontal width) of the gauge is changed according to the maximum operable time (total operable time). For example, when the maximum operable time is 4 seconds, the gauge length is displayed twice as compared with 2 seconds. As a result, the player can operate from the length of the gauge this time the operation available time (total operation available time from the start of operation reception to the end of operation reception) and the current remaining operation available time (from the start of operation reception from the total operation available time). It is possible to easily recognize the remaining operation time (subtracting the elapsed time).

  In pattern 2, although the length of the gauge is constant, meter display is displayed in a plurality of stages according to the total operable time and the remaining operable time. For example, when the total operable time is 8 seconds and the remaining operable time is changed from 8 seconds to 4 seconds, the meter display is a horizontal stripe pattern. Next, when the remaining operable time reaches 4 seconds, the meter display is made a diagonal pattern. The diagonal display of the meter decreases as the remaining operation time decreases. At this time, since the gauge background is the horizontal stripe display of the previous stage, the gauge is displayed in a mixture of the diagonal display and the horizontal stripe display.

  As described above, in the pattern 2, the length of the gauge represents the width of the predetermined time, and the total operable time is displayed in a plurality of stages (two stages in the example). And the display mode of a meter is changed according to remaining operation possible time (stage). Thereby, the player can easily recognize the total operable time and the remaining operable time.

  In pattern 3, the meter display pattern is changed according to the total operable time, and the meter display color is changed according to the remaining operable time. For example, when the total operable time is 4 seconds, the meter display is a lattice pattern, and when it is 8 seconds, the meter display is a diagonal pattern. The remaining operable time is displayed in blue or red with a predetermined time as a boundary. If the predetermined time is 3 seconds, it is displayed in blue when the remaining operable time is 5 seconds, but is displayed in red when the remaining operation time is 2 seconds. Thus, the player can recognize the total operable time based on the meter display pattern, and can recognize the remaining operable time based on the color.

  In pattern 4, meter display is performed using the display of the effect button (effect operation unit). One effect button is displayed as a whole with respect to the total operable time, and the display of the effect button is lost according to the remaining operable time. The display size of the effect button changes according to the total operable time. Thus, the player can recognize the total operable time based on the size of the displayed effect buttons, and can recognize the remaining operable time based on the display ratio of the effect buttons. Since the screen display of the effect button 16 operated by the player is used, it is easier to understand.

  Next, pattern 5 is an effect display pattern when a long press of effect button 16 is requested. In this case, the length of the gauge displayed on the screen represents the long press request time of the effect button 16. And a meter is displayed corresponding to the continuous operation input (long press time) of the production button 16 by the player, and when the required time is reached, the meter reaches the upper limit. At this time, the effect button display may be vibrated.

  Thus, in the pattern 5, the length of the gauge represents the operation request time (total operation possible time), and the meter display represents the operation time. That is, the player can recognize the remaining operation request time (remaining operation possible time) based on the progress of the meter with respect to the length of the gauge.

  Subsequently, the pattern 6 is an effect display pattern in which an operation history of the effect button 16 is displayed on the screen. Here, the operation history of the effect button 16 is displayed on the gauge background in the case of the display mode in which the meter display decreases as the remaining operation available time decreases as in the patterns 1 to 4 described above. The operation history is displayed so that the operation timing, the number of operations, and the operation time can be recognized. Thereby, the player can visually recognize how much the player is operating at what timing.

  The pattern 7 is an effect display pattern when the effect button 16 vibrates by an operation. When the player operates, the gauge area corresponding to the timing at which the effect button 16 vibrates is set to a specific display (display capable of vibration). For example, in the vibratable display shown in FIG. 6A, the meter is displayed in black instead of the diagonal line so that the remaining time of the remaining operable time when the effect button 16 is operated can be seen. When the effect button 16 is operated during the vibratable display, the gauge is also vibrated and displayed around the center of gravity as shown in FIG. In this way, the vibration notice is displayed on the display screen 31 and the gauge display on the display screen 31 is also displayed in vibration in conjunction with the actual vibration of the effect button 16, so that the fun of the game can be enhanced.

  The pattern 8 is an effect display pattern when the effect button 16 physically jumps out. When the effect button 16 pops out at the timing when the remaining operable time reaches a predetermined time, a notice display is performed so that the pop-out timing can be understood from the gauge display on the display screen 31. Here, the vertical width (height) of the gauge corresponding to the time zone when the height of the effect button 16 becomes high is displayed. In this way, the pop-up notice display is performed on the display screen 31, so that the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  The pattern 9 is an effect display pattern when the operation of the effect button 16 is promoted with the display of the character. In this case, a flame display is added to the gauge display (FIG. A), and a character that performs fire extinguishes appears to prompt the player to operate the effect button 16 (FIGS. B and C). Here, while the character is being displayed, the speed at which the meter decreases decreases, and the operable time is substantially extended. If the player does not operate the effect button 16, the character jumps on the effect button on the display (FIGS. D and E). After that, the result of the variable display game being executed (here, a big hit) is displayed on the display screen 31. When the player operates the effect button 16, the display is switched directly from FIG. C to FIG. Thus, since the effect display involving the character is changed according to the operation input of the effect button 16 by the player, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

  The pattern 10 is an effect display pattern when the background display of the display screen 31 is involved. Here, the background of the display screen 31 is changed from bright daytime to dark night corresponding to the decrease of the gauge meter (FIG. ABC). Thus, since the background display of the display screen 31 also serves as a meter, it becomes easier to recognize the operable time and the fun of the game can be enhanced.

  Finally, in pattern 11, the length (width) of the gauge is changed according to the total operable time as in pattern 1 (Fig. A). If the total operable time is very long, the display screen 31 is The gauge crossing is displayed (Fig. B). In this way, when the total operable time is very long, the gauge is displayed so as to separate the display area of the variable display game and the display area of the start memory on the display screen 31, so that the operable time can be recognized more easily. .

  Note that the patterns 1 to 11 described above may be applied by combining a plurality of patterns instead of applying only one pattern as a notification mode of the operable time. While more accurate notification is possible, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game.

[Production display related to the number of operations of the production button]
Next, FIG. 18 is an example of an effect when the operation target of the effect button is set in the third embodiment of the present invention.

  There is a possibility that the production button 16 is damaged if the operation of the production button 16 is effective even if it is rubbed repeatedly. In addition, the continuous hitting sound is noisy, which may be annoying to surrounding players. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the display content on the display screen 31 is changed according to the number of operations of the effect button 16. Here, the subsequent effect display will be described based on the display of FIG.

  First, when the operation of the effect button 16 becomes valid, the requested number of operations is displayed on the display screen 31. Here, the target number of operations is three.

  Then, if the operation target number of times is not achieved (operation of two times or less) within the operable time, the operation unachieved effect display is executed on the display screen 31. Further, when the target operation frequency is achieved (three operations), the target clear effect display is executed on the display screen 31. In some cases, the next mission may be shifted to an effect in which the effect button 16 is operated a specified number of times. In addition, when the operation target number of times is exceeded (4 or more operations), an operation excess effect display is executed.

[Operation target processing]
Subsequently, control for executing the effect display of FIG. 18 described above will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the operation target process according to the third embodiment of this invention. The operation target process is executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 of the effect control device 200.

  First, the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 determines whether or not the player has pressed the effect button 16 four times or more within the current operable time (S1901). If the number of operations is four times or more (the result of S1901 is “Y”), the display screen 31 is set to execute the operation excess effect display (S1902), and the operation target process is terminated. .

  On the other hand, when the number of operations is less than 4 (the result of S1901 is “N”), the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 determines whether the number of operations is 3 or more (S1903). . That is, when the number of operations is three (the result of S1903 is “Y”), the target clear effect display is set to be executed on the display screen 31 (S1904), and the operation target process is terminated.

  Further, the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 is set so that the operation unachieved effect display is executed on the display screen 31 when the number of operations is less than 3 (the result of S1903 is “N”). (S1905), the operation target process is terminated.

[Operation target display processing]
In the third embodiment, when it is determined that the cumulative number of operations of the effect button 16 exceeds a certain level, the operation button 16 is operated to reduce the target operation frequency of the effect button 16 to protect the effect button 16 from deterioration and damage. Here, the setting of the operation target number is reviewed according to the operation time after the gaming machine 1 is installed. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation target display process according to the third embodiment of this invention. The operation target display process is executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 of the effect control device 200.

  The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 determines whether or not the operating time of the gaming machine 1 has reached 2000 hours or more (S2001). Here, the installation time after the gaming machine 1 is installed in the amusement hall is known by the real time clock. The operating time of the gaming machine 1 can be calculated from this and game information such as a game.

  When the operating time is 2000 hours or more (the result of S2001 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 sets the operation target number of times of the effect button 16 for all effects by one subtraction setting. (S2002), the operation target display process is terminated. For example, in the effect display with the original operation target number of times being 3, the number is changed to 2 times. If the target operation count becomes 0 by subtracting 1, the target operation count is not displayed in the effect display. Even if there is no operation input, the target clear effect display is executed.

(Effect of the third embodiment)
According to the third embodiment of the present invention, the display mode (notification mode) on the display screen 31 is changed according to the total operable time and remaining operation possible time of the effect button (effect operation unit). The person can accurately recognize the total operable time and the remaining operable time.

  In addition, the number of operation target operations of the effect button in the total operable time is notified, and the target clear effect display is not performed when the operation number exceeds the operation target number. For this reason, excessive repeated hits by the player can be prevented, and the life of the gaming machine can be extended. Moreover, noise caused by excessive repeated hits can be prevented, so that the surroundings are not disturbed.

  Then, when the production button is operated as many times as the notified operation target number, the process proceeds to the next production and the operation target number of times of the production is notified, so that the interest of the game can be enhanced and the player can operate Try to manipulate the target number of times.

  In addition, when the operating time of the gaming machine exceeds a predetermined time, the durability of the effect button is also reduced, so the number of operation targets for the effect is reduced. Thereby, the lifetime of a gaming machine can be lengthened.

(Fourth embodiment)
Subsequently, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the fourth embodiment, the center case 22 of the second embodiment is changed, and in particular, the structure around the display device 30 is different.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a structure around a display device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 21A is a diagram before the movable member is operated, and FIG. 21B is a diagram after the movable member is operated.

  In the fourth embodiment, the movable member 85 is used for effect display on the display device 30. Then, the movable member 85 stores a part of the game balls won in the predetermined winning opening 26 and operates with the stored balls. Here, the mechanism will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, a winning opening 26 is provided above the center case 22. A storage ball effect unit 90 is provided to the right of the center case 22 so as to surround the display device 30. Here, the winning opening 26 and the stored ball effect unit 90 are continuous, and a part of the game balls winning the winning opening 26 are guided to the stored ball effect unit 90, and a predetermined number or more of the game balls are stored as the stored ball effect. When guided to the unit 90, it is guided to another overflow channel 92. The game balls flowing down the overflow channel 92 continue to a discharge passage (not shown) that discharges to the back surface of the game board 20.

  On the other hand, the stored ball production unit 90 includes a ball storage unit 91 and a ball flow lowering passage 93 in order from the upstream, and a storage ball detection switch 94, a ball storage unit 91, and a ball flow lowering passage 93 on the downstream side of the ball storage unit 91. And the stored ball release SOL95.

  The stored ball release SOL 95 normally blocks the passage cross section from the ball storage unit 91 to the ball flow down passage 93 and blocks the game ball in the upstream ball storage unit 91. The stored ball detection switch 94 detects a game ball flowing down from the ball storage unit 91 to the ball flow down passage 93.

  The game balls that have won the winning opening 26 in this way are first guided to the storage ball effect unit 90 and are stored in the ball storage unit 91 while being prevented from flowing down by the storage ball release SOL 95. A predetermined number of game balls can be stored in the ball storage unit 91, and when the stored game balls (reserved balls) reach a predetermined number, the next game ball won in the winning opening 26 is stored in the storage ball effect unit 90. It is guided to the overflow channel 92 in front of being guided.

  Here, the storage ball release SOL 95 is activated when the storage release condition is satisfied, and the storage ball is guided down from the ball storage unit 91 to the ball flow down passage 93. The establishment of the storage cancellation condition may be based on the detection of the effect button switch 251 that receives an operation input of the effect button 16 by the player, or the result of the variable display game being executed on the display device 30 is a special result (for example, It is good also as a condition that the ratio (reliability, expectation degree) which becomes a big hit is more than predetermined.

  Further, a movable member 85 is provided downstream of the ball flow down passage 93. The movable member 85 has a pivot shaft 86 at the center, and is arranged so that the display device 30 side is a decorative portion 85a and the sphere lowering passage 93 side is a sphere contact portion 85b. As shown in FIG. 21A, the movable member 85 is stopped under the display device 30 with the decorative portion 85a heavier than the ball contact portion 85b facing downward.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 21 (B), the stored ball that has flowed down the ball flow down passage 93 falls and hits the ball contact portion 85b of the movable member 85, whereby the ball contact portion 85b is pushed downward. The decorative portion 85a is pushed upward about the rotation shaft 86. As a result, the decorative portion 85 a of the movable member 85 can be moved to the front surface of the display device 30. Thereafter, the stored ball is discharged from the stored ball effect unit 90, and is joined to the discharge passage although illustration is omitted.

  Further, when the stored ball release SOL 95 is activated and the game ball is detected by the stored ball detection switch 94, an effect display related to the movable member 85 is displayed on the display screen 31 of the display device 30. Details of the effect display on the display screen 31 will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  The storage ball effect unit 90 is provided so that the front surface thereof can be transmitted from the center case 22. Thereby, the player can visually recognize the storage state and the flow-down operation of the storage ball. When not visible, the player can be notified of the storage state of the ball storage unit 91, the release of the stored ball, and the like (voice notification by the speaker 10 and display notification on the display screen 31). If the player can recognize the release of the stored ball, the storage release becomes a notice effect when the storage release condition is established according to the reliability of the variable display game as described above.

  Next, FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an effect control device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the storage ball release SOL95 provided in the storage ball effect unit 90 is included in the board effect device 270 in the configuration (see FIG. 5) of the effect control device of the first embodiment. In addition, a storage ball detection switch (SW) 94 provided in the storage ball effect unit 90 is detected by a switch (SW) input circuit 253 and a detection signal is transmitted to the main control microcomputer 210.

  Next, FIG. 23 is an example of effect display in the display device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, the stored ball release SOL 95 is operated, and the game ball flowing down is detected by the stored ball detection switch 94, so that the effect display related to the movable member 85 is displayed on the display screen 31 of the display device 30. become.

  At this time, on the display screen 31, as shown in FIG. 23A, effect display is performed so that the decorative portion 85 a is conspicuous at the timing when the decorative portion 85 a of the movable member 85 appears on the front surface of the display device 30.

  Further, when there is no storage ball in the ball storage unit 91, as shown in FIG. 23B, the effect display is executed after the movable member is displayed on the display screen 31.

[Storage release display processing]
Next, a control process for performing the above-described effect display will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of storage cancellation display processing according to the fourth embodiment of this invention. The storage release display process is executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 of the effect control device 200.

  First, the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 210 determines whether or not the stored-ball release SOL95 is turned on, that is, operated (S2401). Here, the stored ball release SOL95 is activated when the storage release condition is satisfied. The storage cancellation condition may be satisfied by an operation input of the effect button 16 as described above, or may be satisfied according to the reliability of the variable display game. Further, it may be time to produce an effect on the display screen 31 as shown in FIG.

  If the stored ball release SOL95 is not on (the result of S2401 is “N”), the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 210 ends the storage release display process.

  On the other hand, the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 210 determines whether or not the flow of the stored ball is detected when the stored ball release SOL95 is on (the result of S2401 is “Y”) (S2402). Here, when the storage ball detection SW 94 is on, it is determined that the storage ball flows down.

  The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 displays an effect only on the display screen 31 as shown in FIG. 23A described above when the stored ball flows down (the result of S2402 is “Y”). The display process is executed (S2403), and the storage release display process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when there is no stored ball to flow down (the result of S2402 is “N”), the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 also displays the movable member on the display screen 31 as shown in FIG. The movable member + effect display process to be displayed is executed (S2404), and the storage release display process is terminated.

(Effect of the fourth embodiment)
According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the game ball hits the movable member, so that the decorative portion of the movable member can move to the front surface of the display device. Since it can be suppressed, a power saving effect can be obtained.

  In addition, since the decorative portion of the movable member may or may not move to the front surface of the display device due to the operation of the game ball, the decorative portion can be moved randomly and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In addition, since the game ball used for moving the movable member is a stored ball stored in the ball storage unit, it can be used when necessary to move, and the power saving effect can be enhanced. Moreover, by aiming at the flow-down timing of the storage ball, etc., the movement of the decoration part can be made random and the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  In addition, since the stored ball of the ball storage unit is released according to the reliability of the variation display game, the flow of the stored ball becomes a notice effect. Thereby, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

(Modification 1 of the fourth embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27, a first modification of the fourth embodiment will be described. In the first modification, an auxiliary solenoid 88 that moves the movable member 85 is provided, and when there is no storage ball, a hybrid type movable member is used in which the auxiliary solenoid 88 moves the movable member 85.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the movable member according to the first modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 25A, the movable member 85 of Modification 1 has a rotating shaft 86 extending rearward, and a SOL contact member 87 that receives the power of the auxiliary solenoid 88 is provided at the rear of the rotating shaft 86. Is provided. When viewed from the front as shown in FIG. 25B, the auxiliary solenoid 88 pushes down the SOL contact member 87, so that the rotation shaft 86 rotates and the movable member 85 also rotates clockwise. .

  FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an effect control apparatus according to Modification 1 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In Modification 1, an auxiliary SOL 88 is added to the board effect device 270 in the configuration of the effect control device of the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 22).

[Hybrid treatment]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of hybrid processing according to the first modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The hybrid process is executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 of the effect control device 200.

  The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 first determines whether or not it is an operation timing to move the movable member 85 (S2701). If it is not the operation timing (the result of S2701 is “N”), the hybrid process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is the operation timing (the result of S2701 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 210 determines whether or not a stored ball has been detected (S2702). Here, it is determined that there is a stored ball when the stored ball detection SW 94 is on.

  Then, when a stored ball is detected (the result of S2702 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 210 operates with the stored ball release SOL95 turned on (S2703), and ends the hybrid process. . If no stored ball is detected (result of S2702 is “N”), the auxiliary SOL 88 is turned on to operate (S2704), and the hybrid process is terminated. Note that less power is consumed by the operation of the storage ball release SOL95 than the power consumed by the operation of the auxiliary SOL88.

(Effects of Modification 1 of Fourth Embodiment)
According to the first modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, when there is no storage ball in the ball storage unit, the movable member is moved using the auxiliary solenoid, so that the effect using the movable member is reliably executed. can do. When there is a storage ball in the ball storage unit, the movable member is moved by the flow of the storage ball, so that a power saving effect can be obtained rather than always using a solenoid.

(Modification 2 of the fourth embodiment)
Next, Modification 2 of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the second modification, a light emitting unit 89a that emits light when the game ball abuts is incorporated into the decorative portion 85a of the movable member 85.

  28 and 29 are diagrams illustrating a general light emitting structure. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the impact light emitting member of Modification 2 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  The impact light emitting member 89 has an impact receiving portion 89b that receives an external force on one side of the plate shape, and a light emitting portion (LED) 89a on the other side.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating the light emission mechanism of the second modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  The aforementioned impact light emitting member 89 is provided so that the light emitting portion 89a faces the front as shown in FIG. When viewed from the side, as shown in FIG. 29 (B), a part of the sphere channel is configured so that the impact receiving portion 89b of the impact light emitting member 89 receives the downward force of the game ball flowing down the sphere channel. Then, the game ball flowing down the ball flow path falls on the impact receiving portion 89b of the impact light emitting member 89, so that the light emitting portion 89a of the impact light emitting member 89 visible from the front emits light.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the movable member according to the second modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the mechanism of impact light emission that emits light by the drop impact of the game ball as described above is incorporated in the movable member 85.

  Specifically, the movable member 85 of Modification 2 includes a light emitting portion 89a in the decorative portion 85a and an impact receiving portion 89b in the ball contact portion 85b. Thereby, when the decoration part 85a of the movable member 85 appears on the front surface of the display device 30, the decoration part 85a emits light, and the decoration effect can be enhanced. Moreover, since the impact light emission does not consume power, the power saving effect is also high.

(Effect of the modification 2 of 4th Embodiment)
According to the second modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, since the mechanism of impact light emission is incorporated into the movable member, the decorative portion emits light when the decorative portion of the movable member appears on the front surface of the display device. For this reason, the effect of a movable member can be heightened. Further, since the shock emission does not consume power, a power saving effect can be obtained.

  The embodiment disclosed this time is illustrative in all points and is not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the invention but by the scope of claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of claims.

  Moreover, the following is mentioned as a typical thing of the viewpoint of this invention other than what was described in the claim.

  (1) In a gaming machine in which a plurality of variable winning devices are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, the variable winning device has an inclined portion on an upper surface, and includes a slide member operable in a direction perpendicular to the game board, The gaming machine, wherein the plurality of variable winning devices are arranged such that a game ball that has flowed down on the upper surface of the upper slide member can flow down on the upper surface of the lower slide member.

  (2) The gaming machine according to (1), further comprising a guide unit that guides the game ball that has flowed down the upper surface of the upper slide member to the upper surface of the lower slide member.

  (3) One of the plurality of variable prize-winning devices is an ordinary variable prize-winning device, and a normal start gate that can act as an operation trigger of the normal variable prize-winning device is provided above the normal variable prize-winning device. The gaming machine according to (2).

  (4) The gaming machine according to (3), characterized in that a planting region in which a nail that can change the flow direction of the game ball can be planted is provided on the upper part of the variable winning device.

  (5) A game ball is placed on the upper part of the variable prize apparatus, on a first route passing through the upper part of the slide member, and on a second route having a distance passing through the upper part of the slide member shorter than the first route. The gaming machine according to (4), further including a flow path branching section that branches the flow path.

  According to (1) to (5), since the game ball flows down the upper surface of the slide member, the momentum of the game ball can be attenuated without being repelled by the opening / closing member. Furthermore, since the game balls that have not won the upper variable winning device can be awarded to the lower variable winning device, it is possible to prevent the generation of useless balls and increase the winning efficiency.

1 gaming machine 16 effect button 22 center case 23 first start winning opening 26 general winning opening 29 first out opening 30 display device 31 display screen 60, 70 variable winning unit 61, 72 normal variable winning device (second starting winning opening)
61a, 72a Slide member (ordinary electric accessory)
62 Downstream Exit (2nd Out Exit)
62b Downflow detection sensor (second out port switch)
63, 71 First special variable winning device (first big prize opening)
63a, 71a Slide member 64, 77, 80 Adjusting nail 65 Second outlet opening downer 66 Downstream passage 69, 73 Second special variable winning device (second main winning outlet)
74-76 1st-3rd guide member 78 Flow direction changing member 79 Out port (2nd out port)
85 Movable members (movable members for production)
85a Ball contact portion 85b Decoration portion 85c Light emitting portion 86 Rotating shaft 87 Auxiliary SOL contact member 88 Auxiliary solenoid (SOL)
90 Storage Ball Production Unit 91 Ball Storage Unit 92 Overflow Channel 93 Ball Flow Down Passage 94 Storage Ball Detection Switch (SW)
95 Reservoir release solenoid (SOL)
100 Game control device 200 Production control device

Claims (3)

A gaming machine comprising: a display device; a control means for controlling display content of the display device; and an effect operation unit capable of detecting a player's operation,
The production operation unit
The members constituting the production operation unit are configured to be movable,
The control means includes
An operation for displaying a promotion image for prompting a player's operation on the display device and notifying that an operation input to the production operation unit can be accepted when an operation input to the production operation unit can be accepted. Possible notification means,
The promotion image is
An operable time notifying unit for notifying the effective time when the operation input is valid;
The operable notification means is
Operable time notification means for performing notification related to the effective time in the operable time notification unit;
Operable emphasis means for emphasizing that an operation input to the production operation unit is acceptable;
An operation part change notification means for notifying a player of the change of the members constituting the effect operation part,
The operable time notification means includes
Notifying that the effective time has elapsed by continuously changing the operable time notification unit in one direction with the passage of the effective time,
The operable highlighting means includes
A display unit that changes as the effective time elapses before the expiration of the effective time is provided separately from the operable time notification unit, and the display mode of the display unit is different from the operable time notification unit. By performing the above, an operable highlighting that emphasizes that an operation input to the effect operating unit can be accepted is executed. The promotion image includes a character image,
The character image includes a first character image and a second character image having relevance to the first character image,
The operable highlighting means includes
The first character image is displayed on the display unit at the start of the effective time, and the second character image is displayed in accordance with the change of the operable time notifying unit as the effective time elapses, thereby producing the effect. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, which emphasizes that an operation input to the operation unit can be accepted. The promotion image includes an image showing the effect operation unit,
The operable highlighting means includes
When the player does not perform an operation input to the effect operation unit by the end of the effective time, the character image is displayed on an image showing the effect operation unit after the effective time ends, thereby causing the effect The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein it is emphasized that an operation input to the operation unit cannot be accepted.

Images