JP2017018156A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine with more enhanced amusement than the conventional game machine.SOLUTION: A game machine 1 includes: a movable member 20 capable of changing from a closed state in which game balls hardly enter a prescribed winning area 22 to an open state in which the game balls easily enter the winning area 22 on the basis of entering of the game balls into a start device 14; and a distribution device 23 which distributes game balls entering the winning area 22 when the movable member 20 is in the open state to a specific area 24 advantageous to a player and to a non-specific area 25 different from the specific area 24. In the case that the game balls enter the start device 14 via a first route and in the case that the game balls enter the start device 14 via a second route, probabilities that the game balls having entered the winning area 22 when the movable member 20 is in the open state are distributed to the specific area 24 by the distribution device 23, are different.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that launches a game ball on a game board surface.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a big prize opening is opened by operating a movable member provided in the big prize opening device when a game ball launched on the surface of the game board enters the start opening. There is known a so-called type 2 game machine that is open and performs a special game on condition that a game ball that has entered the grand prize opening passes through a specific area provided in the special prize opening. (For example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-240244 A

  In a conventional gaming machine, a game ball launched on the surface of a game board enters a starting port through various routes, whereby a movable member is operated to open a grand prize opening. However, no matter what route the game ball enters the starting gate, the probability that the game ball that has entered the open big prize opening will pass through the specific area is equal. There was a problem of lack of sex.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that is more entertaining than conventional gaming machines.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a gaming machine (1), provided at a predetermined position in a game area (11) where a game ball is launched and capable of entering the game ball. (13, 14), a first path (P1) for guiding the game ball launched into the game area (11) to the starter (13, 14), and a path different from the first path (P1) A second path (P2) for guiding the game ball launched into the game area (11) to the starter (13, 14), and a position different from the starter (13, 14) in the game area (11) Based on the fact that the game ball enters the starter (13, 14), the game ball is placed in the winning area (22) from the closed state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the predetermined winning area (22). The movable member (20) that can be easily changed to the open state and the game ball that has entered the winning area (22) when the movable member (20) is in the open state is advantageous to the player. A specific area (24) A distribution device (23) that distributes to a non-specific region (25) different from the region (24), and the game ball passes to the starter (13, 14) via the first path (P1) When the movable member (20) is in an open state, when the ball is entered and when the game ball enters the starter (13, 14) via the second path (P2). The game balls that have entered the region (22) have different probabilities of being distributed to the specific region (24) by the distribution device (23).

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine (1) according to the first aspect, the distribution device (23) is configured such that the game ball that has entered the winning area (22) has the specific area (24). It periodically operates between a first position where it is easy to pass and a second position where it is difficult for a game ball that has entered the winning area (22) to pass through the specific area (24), In any one of the first route (P1) and the second route (P2), the game ball is placed at a timing at which the game device can easily pass through the specific area (24) by the sorting device (23). The structure is characterized in that a guiding means (29) for guiding to the starting device (13, 14) is provided.

  The invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that, in the gaming machine (1) according to claim 2, the guiding means (29) operates in synchronization with the periodic operation of the distribution device (23). It is the structure to do.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine (1) according to any one of the first to third aspects, the starting device (13, 14) can enter a game ball via the first path. A first starter (13); and a second starter (14) into which a game ball can enter via the second path, and the movable member (20) includes the first starter ( The opening time for the open state is different between when the game ball enters 13) and when the game ball enters the second starting device (14).

  In addition, the code | symbol in this column was shown in the example in description of this invention, and this invention is not interpreted limitedly by this code | symbol.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is movable when the game ball enters the starter device via the first route and when the game ball enters the starter device via the second route. Since the probabilities that the game balls that have entered the winning area when the member is in the open state are distributed to the specific area by the distribution device are different from each other, it is possible to perform a game that is more interesting than before.

It is a front view which shows the external appearance structure of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the control mechanism of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the table referred in special game determination. It is a figure which shows an example of the open pattern table of the big winning opening at the time of a small hit. It is a figure which expands and shows the structure of the periphery of a center accessory. It is a figure which shows an example of the small hit game at the time of entering a starting device via a 1st path | route. It is a figure which shows an example of the small hit game at the time of entering a starting device via a 1st path | route. It is a figure which shows an example of the small hit game at the time of entering a starting device via a 1st path | route. It is a figure which shows an example of the small hit game at the time of entering a starting device via a 1st path | route. It is a figure which shows the example of the operation timing of a guide member. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence for driving a guidance device.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, members that are common to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof are omitted.

◇ Appearance structure of gaming machine ◇
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an external configuration of a gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment. This gaming machine 1 is a ball-type gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's instruction operation enters various winning holes. The gaming machine 1 has a gaming machine main body 1a fixed to an island facility in a hall (store), and has a front frame door 3 in which a transparent glass plate 2 is fitted on the front side of the gaming machine main body 1a. ing. The gaming machine main body 1 a includes a gaming board 10 that rolls gaming balls inside the front frame door 3.

  The front frame door 3 is pivotally supported at the left end of the gaming machine main body 1a so that the front side of the gaming machine main body 1a can be opened and closed. The transparent glass plate 2 allows the gaming board 10 attached to the inside of the gaming machine body 1a to be visible from the front side of the gaming machine 1 with the front frame door 3 closing the front side of the gaming machine body 1a. belongs to. In addition, a shelf-shaped sphere storage unit 4 that protrudes to the front side is provided at the lower center of the front frame door 3. On the upper surface of the ball storage section 4, an operation button 6 that can be operated by the player is provided, and a storage tray for storing a game ball for launching on the game board 10 is provided. Further, the front frame door 3 is provided with a handle lever 5 that can be operated to rotate within a predetermined angle range in the clockwise direction so that the player can fire the game ball in the lower right part of the ball storage unit 4. Further, the front frame door 3 is provided with a frame lamp 7 that is lit in various patterns as the game progresses, above the transparent glass plate 2 and below the ball storage unit 4, and is positioned above the transparent glass plate 2. Speakers 8 are provided on both the left and right sides of the frame lamp 7 to output sound for various effects or notifications as the game progresses.

  When the front frame door 3 is in a closed state, the game board 10 forms a game area 11 in which a game ball can roll between the board surface and the transparent glass plate 2 fitted in the front frame door 3. . When the handle lever 5 is operated by the player, the game ball is intermittently launched to the upper left portion of the game area 11 at a constant time interval with a hitting force according to the operation angle. The game balls launched into the game area 11 flow down while rolling in the game area 11. When the game ball enters the various winning openings provided in the game board 10 before reaching the lowest part of the game area 11, the prize ball is paid out to the storage tray of the ball storage unit 4.

  A center accessory 12 is provided in the center of the game board 10. The center accessory 12 is an electric accessory for performing various effects according to the progress of the game or performing a special game advantageous to the player. The center accessory 12 is provided with an image display 18 for displaying images for various effects, and an image corresponding to the progress of the game can be displayed. The image display 18 may be configured by a color liquid crystal display, for example, or may be a dot matrix type display in which LEDs are two-dimensionally arranged.

  A big prize opening device 19 is provided below the image display 18 of the center accessory 12. The big prize opening device 19 opens and closes a movable prize 20 provided on a pair of left and right sides to open and close a big prize opening 21 into which a game ball can be entered, and also wins a game ball to the big prize opening 21. It is a variable winning device to detect. The movable member 20 is configured to open and close the special prize opening 21 by, for example, rotating around a predetermined rotation axis, and is normally in a state in which the special prize opening 21 is closed. That is, the special prize opening device 19 holds the movable prize 20 in a state in which the special prize opening 21 is closed in the normal gaming state. When the predetermined condition is satisfied in the gaming machine 1 and the timing for opening the special prize opening 21 is reached, the special prize opening device 19 tilts the pair of left and right movable members 20 in the left-right direction as indicated by broken lines in the drawing. By driving in such a manner, the special winning opening 21 is opened, and the game ball launched into the gaming area 11 is set in a state where it can enter the special winning opening 21. When the movable member 20 opens the grand prize winning opening 21 so that a game ball can enter the big winning prize opening 21, a game value advantageous to the player is given.

  When a game ball enters the big winning opening 21, the gaming ball rolls in a winning area 22 formed inside the big winning opening 21. At the bottom of the winning area 22, there is provided a sorting device 23 that operates in a certain state after the power to the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and the game ball that rolls in the winning area 22 is in the center front of the winning area 22. It falls toward the lower sorting device 23 from the predetermined position on the side.

  The allocating device 23 randomly draws whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player by physically allocating the game ball falling from the winning area 22 to one of the specific area 24 and the non-specific area 25. It is a lottery device. That is, if a game ball guided from the winning area 22 to the allocating device 23 enters the specific area 24, a special game is subsequently started in the gaming machine 1, whereas from the winning area 22 to the allocating device 23. If the guided game ball passes through the non-specific area 25 without entering the specific area 24, the special game is not started in the gaming machine 1, and the opening game of the big winning opening 21 is completed.

  For example, the distribution device 23 according to the present embodiment is configured as a rotating member that rotates around a rotation axis in the front-rear direction that is perpendicular to the board surface of the game board 10, and can accept a game ball at a part of the peripheral edge thereof. The device in which the specific region 24 is formed. When the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the distribution device 23 continues to rotate around the rotation axis at a constant rotational speed thereafter. Therefore, when a game ball enters the big winning opening 21 when the specific area 24 is in a position facing upward in a state where the distribution device 23 is constantly rotating, the game ball enters the specific area 24. Even if the game ball enters the big winning opening 21 when the specific area 24 is in a position not facing upward, There is no possibility that the game ball enters the specific area 24. The game balls that have not entered the specific area 24 pass through the non-specific area 25 provided around the allocating device 23, and the back surface of the game board 10 from the outlet 26 provided at the lower part of the non-specific area 25. Discharged to the side. Note that the game balls that have entered the big winning opening 21 are detected as winning balls to the big winning opening 21 regardless of whether they pass through the specific area 24 or the non-specific area 25, and the same number of winning balls are paid out. It is.

  In addition, a stage 27 that can be rolled by the flow of game balls rolling in the game area 11 is provided at the lower part of the sorting device 23, and the game balls rolling in the game area 11 are provided on the left side of the stage 27. Is provided to guide the stage 27 to the stage 27. The guide path 28 has, for example, an inflow port 28 a for allowing a game ball flowing down the left side of the center accessory 12 to flow in, and further for allowing the game ball flowing in from the inflow port 28 a to flow out to the left end of the stage 27. The outflow port 28b is provided. That is, in this embodiment, the game ball rolling in the game area 11 is guided onto the stage 27 by flowing into the inflow port 28a of the guide path 28. In addition, a guide member 29 that operates in the vertical direction in synchronization with the operation of the sorting device 23 is provided at the center of the stage 27. The guide member 29 is a member that guides the game ball that has flowed onto the stage 27 so as to fall down below the center of the stage 27 at a predetermined timing. The details of the operations of the sorting device 23 and the guide member 29 in the center accessory 12 will be described later.

  The game board 10 includes known members such as a first starter 13, a second starter 14, and an outlet 31 in addition to a number of nails 17 and a windmill 16 around the center accessory 12. The second starter 14 is provided at a position below the center of the stage 27 of the center accessory 12 in the game area 11 and includes a second starter port 14a into which a game ball can enter. The first starting device 13 is provided at two positions on both the left and right sides of the second starting device 14 and includes a first starting port 13a into which a game ball can enter. The first start port 13a of the first starter 13 and the second start port 14a of the second starter 14 are winning ports through which a predetermined number of game balls are paid out as winning balls when the game balls enter. . Each of the first start port 13a and the second start port 14a is also a winning port that triggers a special game determination in the gaming machine 1. That is, when a game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a, a random number is acquired in the gaming machine 1, and whether the acquired random number is a big hit, a small hit or a lost value? As a result of the determination, a special game determination is made as to whether or not to perform a special game.

  The out mouth 31 is provided at the lowermost center of the game board 10, and when a game ball rolling in the game area 11 does not enter any of the various winning holes, the game ball is used as an out ball. It is a discharge port for discharging to the back side of the game board 10.

  In addition to this, the game board 10 is also provided with a normal winning opening, a board lamp, etc. (not shown). Further, the game board 10 displays a special symbol corresponding to the determination result of the special game determination on the lower left part of the board surface outside the game area where the game ball rolls, and displays a special symbol according to the determination result of the special game determination. And a symbol display 30 for displaying the number of holds due to the right being held.

◇ Machine control mechanism ◇
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control mechanism of the gaming machine 1 attached to the back side of the gaming board 10. On the back side of the gaming board 10, a main control board 40 that controls main operations of the gaming machine 1 and a sub control board 41 that controls each part based on signals and commands output from the main control board 40 are provided. ing. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the sub control board 41 includes a launch control board 42, a payout control board 43, an effect control board 44, and the like.

  The main control board 40 includes a CPU 40a, a ROM 40b, and a RAM 40c. The main control board 40 includes a first start port switch 51 that detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 13a, and a second start that detects that a game ball has entered the second start port 14a. A pair of movable members 20 provided in the mouth switch 52 and the grand prize opening device 19 are driven to open and close the grand prize opening 21 and detect that a game ball has entered the grand prize opening 21. A big prize opening switch 54, a V winning detection switch 55 for detecting that a game ball has passed through a specific area 24 provided in the distribution device 23, a distribution drive unit 56 for driving the distribution device 23 in a certain state, An induction driving unit 57 that operates the induction member 29 in synchronization with the operation of the sorting device 23 and the symbol display 30 are connected to each other.

  When power is turned on to the gaming machine 1, the main control board 40 performs a predetermined initial operation and then controls the distribution driving unit 56 to operate the distribution device 23 in a constant state. . Thereby, the distribution device 23 always operates in a constant state regardless of the progress of the game. The distribution driving unit 56 is provided with a position detection sensor (not shown) to detect that the specific area 24 of the distribution device 23 has passed a predetermined position, for example. The position detection sensor is configured to send a signal to the main control board 40 at a timing when it is detected that the specific region 24 has passed a predetermined position when the distribution device 23 is performing a steady operation.

  In addition, when the main control board 40 starts driving the sorting device 23, the main control board 40 thereafter controls the guide driving unit 57 at a predetermined timing synchronized with the operation of the sorting device 23 to operate the guide member 29. For example, the main control board 40 operates the guidance driving unit 57 based on a signal output from the position detection sensor of the sorting driving unit 56 so that the guiding member 29 performs an operation synchronized with the sorting device 23. Control. Therefore, the guiding member 29 also performs a steady operation synchronized with the operation of the sorting device 23 regardless of the progress of the game after the power is turned on.

  Further, the main control board 40 issues a prize ball command to the payout control board 32 when each of the first start opening switch 51, the second start opening switch 52, and the big prize opening switch 54 detects the entry of a game ball. Send it out. The payout control board 43 includes a CPU, a ROM and a RAM (not shown), and is configured to control a payout motor 59 provided on the back side of the game board 10. When a ball command is input, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out as a prize ball in accordance with the winning opening.

  The main control board 40 is configured to make a special game determination for determining whether or not to perform a special game. For example, when the first start port switch 51 or the second start port switch 52 detects the entrance of a game ball, the main control board 40 acquires game data including a big hit random number and the like, and the start port into which the game ball enters A special game determination is made according to the game.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a table that is referred to in the special game determination, and FIG. 3A is a table that is referred to when a game ball enters the first start port 13a, and FIG. Is a table that is referred to when a game ball enters the second start port 14a. Such a table is stored in the ROM 40b in advance, and when the main control board 40 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a, the game ball enters. The special game determination is performed with reference to the table corresponding to the starting port. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the jackpot random number is a random number that is sequentially updated within a range of 0 to 398, for example. When it is detected that a game ball has entered the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a, the main control board 40 acquires a jackpot random number at that timing, and the jackpot random number is obtained as shown in FIG. ) To determine whether the random value is a big hit, a small hit or a loss. In the special game determination in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, it is determined as a big win at a ratio (probability) of 1/399, determined as a small win at a ratio of 397/399, and further Loss is determined at a rate of 1/399.

  When determining that it is a big hit in the special game determination, the main control board 40 shifts the subsequent game state to the special game state. When the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state, the main control board 40 drives the special prize opening solenoid 53 to perform a round game in which the movable member 20 of the special prize opening device 19 opens the special prize opening 21 a predetermined number of times. A special game to be performed (for example, 7 times) is executed. In one round game, for example, the open state of the special winning opening 21 continues for a predetermined time (for example, about 29 seconds). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed, the movable member 20 is driven to close the special winning opening 21, thereby completing one round game. However, if the winning prize port switch 54 counts the winning number of game balls with a predetermined number of balls while the big winning opening 21 is open, the movable member 20 is still in the big winning opening 21 even before the predetermined time has elapsed. Close. By continuing such a round game a predetermined number of times, the player can acquire more prize balls in the special game state than in the normal game state.

  If it is determined that the special game determination is a small hit, the main control board 40 drives the special prize opening solenoid 53 so that the movable member 20 of the special prize opening device 19 opens the special prize opening 21 at least once. Play a small hit game that becomes a state. In this small hit game, the opening time of the big winning opening 21 is divided into a case where a small hit is made by entering the first starting port 13a and a case where a small hit is made by entering the second starting port 14a. It is preset so as to be different from each other. That is, when a game ball enters the first start port 13a and is a small hit, it is determined in the special game determination that the first small hit is as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 14a and is a small hit, it is determined in the special game determination that the second small hit is as shown in FIG. Thus, in the present embodiment, there are two types of small hits, the first small hit and the second small hit.

  When the main control board 40 determines that it is a small hit in the special game determination, the main control board 40 determines an opening pattern for opening the special winning opening 21 according to the type of the small hit. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a table that defines the opening pattern of the big winning opening 21 at the time of a small hit, FIG. 4A is a table that is referred to in the case of the first small hit, FIG. Is a table referred to in the case of the second small hit. Such a table is stored in advance in the ROM 40b. When the main control board 40 determines that the first small hit or the second small hit is made, the table corresponding to the type of the small hit is referred to. A pattern for opening the special winning opening 21 is determined. First, as shown in FIG. 4A, in the case of the first small hit, the main control board 40 drives the special winning opening solenoid 53 and the movable member 20 of the special winning opening device 19 sets the special winning opening 21 to 3. An opening pattern for performing the opening operation once for a second is determined. As shown in FIG. 4B, in the case of the second small hit, the main control board 40 drives the special prize opening solenoid 53 so that the movable member 20 of the special prize opening device 19 sets the special prize opening 21 to three. An opening pattern for performing the opening operation for 2 seconds is determined. When the opening pattern at the time of small hitting is determined in this way, the main control board 40 drives the big winning opening solenoid 53 based on the determined opening pattern, thereby opening the big winning opening 21 at least once. Play a game.

  When the big winning opening 21 is opened as a small hit game, when the V winning detection switch 55 detects a game ball winning in the specific area 24, the main control board 40 shifts the subsequent gaming state to the special gaming state. . Then, the main control board 40 drives the special prize opening solenoid 53 as described above, and performs a predetermined number of round games in which the movable member 20 of the special prize opening device 19 opens the special prize opening 21. Special games that are advantageous to the player. In addition, the round game when the special game is performed by passing the game ball through the specific area 24 in the small hit game is performed the same number of times as the special game performed when it is determined that the special game determination is a big hit. The open state of the big winning opening 21 that is opened as a small hit game is counted as the first round game, and after the transition to the special game, the number of round games is less than that at the time of the big hit determination. You may make it do. Further, when the game is shifted from the small hit game to the special game, the game may advance to the next round game on condition that the game ball wins the specific area 24 in each round game. In the case where the big winning opening 21 is opened as a small hit game, when the V winning detection switch 55 does not detect a game ball winning for the specific area 24, the main control board 40 sets the subsequent gaming state as a special game. The small hit game is terminated without shifting to the state.

  When the main control board 40 determines that the game is lost in the special game determination, the main control board 40 continues the normal game state without opening the special winning opening 21.

  When the main control board 40 performs the special game determination as described above, the symbol change time is determined, and the symbol display 30 is controlled based on the symbol change time, thereby displaying the change of the special symbol. For example, the main control board 40 determines the symbol variation time based on the symbol random number included in the game data acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a. At this time, if the result of the special game determination is a big hit or a loss, the main control board 40 determines a relatively long symbol variation time of 10 seconds or more based on the symbol random number. On the other hand, when the result of the special game determination is either the first small hit or the second small hit, the main control board 40 always has a constant time regardless of the value of the design random number, For example, a relatively short time of about 1 second is determined as the symbol variation time. Therefore, if the result of the special game determination is a small hit, the time from when the game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a until the big winning port 21 is released is always a fixed time. It becomes.

  The main control board 40 displays the special symbol with a stop symbol corresponding to the result of the special game determination when the symbol variation time has elapsed since the symbol display on the symbol display 30 was started. At this time, if the result of the special game determination is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display 30. Then, the gaming machine 1 subsequently shifts to a special gaming state, and a special game advantageous to the player is started as described above. If the result of the special game determination is a loss, the lost symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display 30. In this case, the gaming state does not shift to the special gaming state. Further, if the result of the special game determination is the first small hit, the small hit symbol corresponding to the first small hit is stopped and displayed, and if the second small hit, the small hit stop symbol corresponding to the second small hit is displayed. Is displayed. In this case, the gaming machine 1 thereafter starts the above-described small hit game.

  When the main control board 40 starts to display the variation of the special symbol as described above, the main control board 40 sends a symbol variation command to the effect control board 44 to cause an effect according to the result of the special game determination. Further, when the main control board 40 stops displaying the variation of the special symbol and displays the stop symbol corresponding to the result of the special game determination, the main control board 40 sends a symbol stop command to the effect control board 44 and results of the special game determination. The production according to is finished.

  The effect control board 44 includes a CPU 44a, a ROM 44b, and a RAM 44c. Based on a command received from the main control board 40, each of the image display 18, the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, and the panel lamp 9 is provided. By controlling, execution of various effects performed in the gaming machine 1 is controlled. For example, when a change start command is received from the main control board 40, the effect control board 44 performs an effect corresponding to the symbol change time as an effect corresponding to the result of the special game determination.

  When the result of the special game determination is a big hit or a loss, the effect control board 44 receives a change start command from the main control board 40, and the numbers such as “1” to “9” are displayed on the image display 18. The design variation effect of varying the attached three decorative designs individually is started. Then, when the change stop command is received from the main control board 40, the effect control board 44 ends the symbol change effect and stops the three decorative symbols at the symbols corresponding to the result of the special game determination. At this time, if the result of the special game determination is a jackpot, the game stops at the same symbol in a state where all three decorative symbols are arranged, and the player is notified that the jackpot has been won. On the other hand, if the result of the special game determination is a loss, the game is stopped in a state where the three decorative symbols are not aligned with the same symbol, and the player is notified that the game is a loss.

  When the result of the special game determination is either the first small hit or the second small hit, the effect control board 44 receives the change start command from the main control board 40, and the image display In 18, an opening notice effect is performed to notify that the big winning opening 21 is opened as a small hit game. This opening notice effect is an effect that is performed between the start of the special symbol variation display and the time that the symbol variation time of about 1 second elapses, and is always performed as an effect of a certain time. When receiving the change stop command from the main control board 40, the effect control board 44 ends the opening notice effect. Then, the effect control board 44 performs an effect indicating that the special winning opening 21 is being opened.

  In the gaming machine 1 as described above, when a game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a and wins a small hit, the small hit game starts after a predetermined time of about 1 second elapses. Then, the special winning opening 21 is opened. In other words, the timing at which the big prize opening 21 is opened when a small hit game is performed in the gaming machine 1 depends on the timing at which the game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a. On the other hand, the allocating device 23 rotates at a constant cycle as described above, and the first position (specific area where the game ball that has entered the winning area 22 during the small hit game easily passes the specific area 24. 24 periodically moves between the second position where the specific region 24 is difficult to pass (the position where the specific region 24 faces downward). For this reason, the main control board 40 of the present embodiment is in a state where the specific region 24 passes a predetermined position when the distribution device 23 is in a state of being steadily operated by controlling the distribution drive unit 56. The guide driving unit 57 is driven to operate the guide member 29. As a result, the game ball that has flowed onto the stage 27 falls downward from the center of the stage 27 at a predetermined timing, and when the game ball enters the second start port 14a and wins a small hit. The small hit game is started at the timing when the game ball easily enters the specific area 24, and the big winning opening 21 is opened. In the following, a characteristic operation of the gaming machine 1 mainly in the case of a small hit game will be described.

◇ Detailed operation of the center character ◇
FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing a configuration around the center accessory 12. As shown in FIG. 5, the stage 27 provided below the center accessory 12 has a left stage 27a and a right stage 27b, and a gap through which a game ball can pass between the left stage 27a and the right stage 27b. 27c is provided. The guide member 29 is provided above the gap 27c, and is configured to move up and down as indicated by an arrow F in FIG. The guide member 29 has a lowered position indicated by a solid line in FIG. 5 as an initial position, and is held at the initial position when the guide drive unit 57 is not driven by the main control board 40. When the guide drive unit 57 is driven by the main control board 40, the guide member 29 moves to the raised position indicated by the broken line in FIG. 5 and opens the gap 27c to a state where the game ball can pass.

  The second starter 14 is provided immediately below the position where the gap 27c is formed in the stage 27, and is provided at a position where a game ball falling from the gap 27c of the stage 27 can easily enter the second start port 14a. ing. Therefore, the game ball B1 flowing into the stage 27 via the guide path 28 in FIG. 5 may enter the second start port 14a. A plurality of nails 17 are arranged substantially linearly on both the left and right sides of the second starter 14 in order to guide the game balls rolling in the game area 11 to the second starter port 14a. Therefore, there is a possibility that the game ball B2 that rolls along the path formed by the plurality of nails 17 also enters the second start port 14a. That is, in the present embodiment, the first path P1 that passes through the stage 27 and the second path P2 that does not pass through the stage 27 are used as paths for guiding the game balls B1 and B2 launched into the game area 11 to the second starting port 14a. There are two paths.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game ball enters the second start port 14a via the first path P1, and the game ball enters the second start port 14a via the second path P2. The game ball B3 that has entered the winning area 22 with the movable member 20 of the large winning opening device 19 opening the large winning opening 21 at the time of winning a small win is placed in the specific area 24 by the sorting device 23. In this configuration, the probability of distribution is different from each other. This will be described in detail below.

  6 to 9 are diagrams illustrating an example of the small hit game when the small hit is won via the first route P1. First, when the game ball B1 flows into the stage 27 at a timing when the game ball is unlikely to enter the specific area 24 of the sorting device 23, the guide member 29 is moved to the initial position below as shown in FIG. Therefore, the game ball B <b> 1 is restricted from rolling by the guide member 29 and is held so as not to fall from the gap 27 c provided at the center of the stage 27. The distribution device 23 rotates at a constant speed in a predetermined rotation direction R in a state where the game ball B1 is held on the stage 27.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when the specific region 24 passes a predetermined position, the guide drive unit 57 is driven by the main control board 40, so that the guide member 29 rises to a predetermined guide position as indicated by an arrow F. . As a result, the state where the guide member 29 restricts the rolling of the game ball B1 is released, and the gap 27c at the center of the stage 27 is opened. Therefore, the game ball B1 staying on the stage 27 starts to roll again as the guide member 29 rises, and falls downward from the central gap 27c of the stage 27. In this way, the game ball B1 falling from the center of the stage 27 toward the second starting device 14 enters the second starting port 14a at a substantially constant rate (for example, about 40 to 80%).

  When the special game determination performed by the game ball B1 entering the second start opening 14a is won, the game ball B1 enters the second start opening 14a as shown in FIG. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special prize opening device 19 drives the movable member 20 so that the special prize opening 21 is opened. Therefore, there is a possibility that the game ball B3 that rolls in the vicinity of the big prize opening device 19 enters the opened big prize opening 21. Then, when the game ball B3 enters the big prize opening 21 when the big prize opening 21 is opened, the game ball B3 rolls in the winning area 22 inside the big prize opening 21, as shown in FIG. Then, it falls from a predetermined position on the center front side of the winning area 22 toward the lower sorting device 23. On the other hand, since the allocating device 23 rotates in the predetermined rotation direction R even when the game ball B3 rolls in the winning area 22, the gaming ball B3 is positioned at a predetermined position on the center front side of the winning area 22. When the ball falls from the winning area 22 toward the sorting device 23, the game ball B3 comes to be located almost directly below the position where the game ball B3 falls from the winning area 22. Therefore, the game ball B3 falling from the winning area 22 passes through the specific area 24 with a relatively high probability. In this way, when a game ball enters the second starting port 14a through the first path P1 and wins a small hit, the big prize opening is made at a timing at which the game ball can easily enter the specific area 24. 21 is released.

  On the other hand, the timing at which the game ball B2 passing through the second path P2 shown in FIG. 5 enters the second start port 14a has nothing to do with the rotational position of the sorting device 23. Therefore, when a game ball passing through the second path P2 enters the second start port 14a and wins a small hit, the game ball enters the second start port 14a regardless of the position of the specific area 24. The special winning opening 21 is opened after a predetermined time has elapsed since the ball was struck. Therefore, when a game ball enters the second starting port 14a through the second path P2 and wins a small hit, the big prize opening 21 is at a timing at which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the specific area 24. Will be released more frequently.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the game ball enters the second start port 14a of the second starter 14 via the first path P1 and the game via the second path P2. When the ball enters the second starting port 14a of the second starting device 14, the game ball B3 that has entered the winning area 22 when the movable member 20 is in the open state is placed in the specific area 24 by the distributing device 23. The probabilities of being distributed are different from each other, and it is more probable that the ball entering the second start port 14a via the first route P1 is assigned to the specific area 24. Therefore, the game ball B1 is in the first route P1. It is possible to raise the player's expectation by flowing into the game, and it is possible to play games that are more interesting than before.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation timing of the guide member 29. First, FIG. 10A is a diagram showing the probability that a game ball enters the specific area 24 of the sorting device 23, where the horizontal axis represents the rotational position of the sorting device 23 and the vertical axis represents the specific area 24. The probability of entering the ball is shown. In FIG. 10A, the rotation position when the specific region 24 is in a state of facing directly upward is set to 0 °. As shown in FIG. 10 (a), when the distribution device 23 is at the rotational position 0 °, the game ball B3 that enters the open large winning opening 21 and rolls in the winning area 22 enters the specific area 24. The probability of a ball is the highest. When the rotational position deviates from 0 °, the probability that the game ball B3 enters the specific area 24 gradually decreases. The probability of entering the specific area 24 is almost zero.

  The main control board 40 monitors the rotational position of the sorter 23 as described above, moves the guide member 29 from the initial position to the guide position at the timing when the specific region 24 passes the first position, and then specifies the specific position. The guide member 29 is returned from the guide position to the initial position at the timing when the region 24 passes the second position. FIGS. 10B, 10C, and 10D show an example of timing for driving the guide member 29 in that case. FIG. 10B illustrates a case where the main control board 40 drives the guide member 29 to the guide position in a period in which, for example, the probability that the game ball B3 enters the specific area 24 is a predetermined value or more. FIG. 10C shows that the distribution device 23 further rotates while the game ball B3 that has entered the big winning opening 21 rolls in the winning area 22, and guides the guiding member 29. The timing at which the period for driving to the position is slightly earlier than that in FIG. 10B is shown. Further, FIG. 10D considers a period (design variation time, etc.) from when the game ball B1 enters the second start port 14a until the small hit game is started. The timing for driving from the initial position to the guidance position is shown earlier than in FIG. The timing for driving the guide member 29 from the initial position to the guide position may be any of FIGS. However, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that the game ball B1 has entered the second start port 14a and won the second small hit, the symbol change for about one second is performed and then the small hit game is started. Since it starts, it is more preferable to drive the guide member 29 to the guide position at a timing before the probability of entering the specific area 24 starts to rise as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure in which the main control board 40 drives the guide member 29. Note that this processing is a processing procedure that is regularly performed after the gaming machine 1 is powered on, regardless of the progress of the game. When the main control board 40 starts this process, it starts to drive the distribution drive unit 56, thereby starting the control for causing the distribution device 23 to operate steadily (step S100). At this time, the main control board 40 holds the guide member 29 at the initial position. Thereafter, the main control board 40 determines whether or not the specific region 24 has passed the first position based on the output from the position detection sensor of the distribution driving unit 56 (step S101), and sets the first position. When the passage is detected (YES in step S101), the guide driving unit 57 is driven to move the guide member 29 to the guide position (step S102). Thereby, the game ball B1 staying on the stage 27 falls from the gap 27c at the center of the stage 27 toward the second start port 14a. If the specific area 24 has not passed the first position (NO in step S101), the process of step S102 is skipped and skipped.

  Next, the main control board 40 determines whether or not the specific region 24 has passed the second position based on the output from the position detection sensor of the distribution drive unit 56 (step S103), and sets the second position. When it is detected that the vehicle has passed (YES in step S103), return driving is performed to drive the guide driving unit 57 to return the guide member 29 from the guide position to the initial position (step S104). As a result, the game ball B1 flowing into the stage 27 that is the first path P1 stays on the stage 27 until it is time for the game ball to enter the specific area 24 easily. If the specific area 24 does not pass through the first position (NO in step S103), the process of step S104 is skipped and skipped. Thereafter, the processing by the main control board 40 returns to step S101, and the above-described processing is repeated.

  By performing the above-described processing by the main control board 40, the guide member 29 causes the second game ball B1 that flows into the stage 27 in synchronization with the sorting device 23 that performs steady operation after the power is turned on. Since the game ball is guided to the start port 14a, the game ball enters the second winning port 14a via the first path P1 and reaches the big winning port 21 when the small hit is made. B3 can easily enter the specific area 24. Particularly in the present embodiment, the distribution drive unit 56 includes a position detection sensor, and the position detection sensor detects that the specific region 24 has passed the first position or the second position. The main control board 40 drives the guide member 29 based on the output from the position detection sensor. Therefore, even after the occurrence of a momentary phenomenon in which the power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is temporarily interrupted, the guide member 29 is driven at the timing when the specific region 24 of the sorting device 23 passes the predetermined position. It is possible to make it. On the other hand, as a method of driving the guide member 29 in synchronization with the distribution device 23, the position of the specific region 24 is calculated by calculation based on the elapsed time from the time of power-on and the operation speed of the distribution device 23. There is also a method of driving the guide member 29 based on the calculated position. However, in such a method, when an electrical shortage phenomenon or the like occurs, the elapsed time from power-on is reset, and the position of the specific region 24 cannot be obtained accurately. It becomes difficult to drive accurately at the timing. Therefore, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment exhibits an excellent effect in that the guide member 29 can be normally driven even after an instantaneous electric power phenomenon or the like occurs.

◇ Characteristic configuration of gaming machine 1 ◇
As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is provided at a predetermined position in the game area 11 where a game ball is launched, and the second starter device 14 into which the game ball can enter and the game launched into the game area 11. A first path P1 for guiding the ball to the second starter 14, and a second path P2 for guiding the game ball launched into the game area 11 through a path different from the first path P1 to the second starter 14. Yes. The gaming machine 1 is provided at a position different from the second starting device 14 in the gaming area 11, and the gaming ball enters the second starting port 14 a of the second starting device 14 and the gaming ball is predetermined. A movable member 20 that can be changed from a closed state in which it is difficult to enter the winning area 22 to an open state in which a game ball can easily enter the winning area 22, and a ball that enters the winning area 22 when the movable member 20 is open. The distribution apparatus 23 distributes the game balls to a specific area 24 that is advantageous to the player and a non-specific area 25 that is different from the specific area 24. In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the game ball enters the second starting port 14a of the second starting device 14 via the first path P1, the gaming ball 1 passes through the second path P2. The probability that a game ball that has entered the winning area 22 when the movable member 20 is in the open state is distributed to the specific area 24 by the distribution apparatus 23 when the ball enters the second starting port 14a of the second starting apparatus 14 Are different from each other.

  According to such a configuration, when the game ball enters the second start port 14a through the first path P1, and when the game ball enters the second start port 14a through the second path P2, Since the probability that a game ball can enter the specific area 24 at the time of winning the small hit is different, there is a probability that the game ball can enter the specific area 24 of the first path P1 and the second path P2. It is possible to enhance the player's expectation simply by rolling the game ball toward the second starting port 14a along the higher route, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the game as compared with the prior art.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the distribution device 23 enters the winning area 22 at a first position where the game ball that has entered the winning area 22 easily passes through the specific area 24 (a position where the specific area 24 faces upward). The game ball that has entered the ball moves periodically between the second position where the specific ball 24 is difficult to pass through the specific area 24 (the position where the specific area 24 faces downward). A guide member 29 is provided for guiding the game ball to the second starting device 14 at a timing at which the game ball easily passes through the specific area 24 by 23. That is, the probability that the first path P1 can enter the game ball into the specific area 24 is higher than that of the second path P2, so that the game ball flows into the first path P1 and the player's It is possible to enhance the sense of expectation and to enhance the fun of the game than before.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, it is comprised so that the guide member 29 provided in the 1st path | route P1 may be operated synchronizing with the periodic operation | movement of the distribution apparatus 23. FIG. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 14a of the second starter 14 via the first path P1, guidance control is performed so that the game ball can easily enter the specific area 24. Therefore, it is possible to increase the probability that the game ball enters the specific area 24 as compared with the case where the game ball enters the second start port 14a via the second path P2.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has two starting devices, a first starting device 13 and a second starting device 14, and the movable member 20 is a first starting port 13a of the first starting device 13. The open time when the game ball enters the open state differs from the case where the game ball enters the second start port 14a of the second starter 14. In particular, when a game ball enters the second start opening 14a and wins a small hit, the game winning ball 21 enters the first start opening 13a and wins a small win. The opening time is long. Therefore, it is more advantageous for the player to win the game ball by entering the second start port 14a and win the game than to win the game by the game ball entering the first start port 13a. Therefore, there exists an advantage that interest property becomes still higher.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment allows the player to make a special game by entering a game ball into the first start port 13a during execution of a special game or a small hit game, or during execution of a special symbol variation display. When the right for game determination is acquired, the right for special game determination is stored as a hold, and after the special game or small hit game currently being executed is completed, or the special symbol currently being executed is displayed in a variable manner. After the completion and the display of the next special symbol can be performed, the hold is read and the next special game determination is performed. Such a hold can store up to a predetermined number (for example, four) of special game determination rights acquired based on entering the first starting port 13a. On the other hand, the gaming machine 1 is special even when a game ball enters the second start port 14a during execution of a special game or a small hit game, or during execution of a special symbol variation display. The game determination right is not stored as a hold. This is because when the game ball enters the second start port 14a via the first path P1, the entry timing is adjusted to a timing at which the game ball can easily enter the specific area 24. If the special game determination right is stored as a hold based on the entry to the second starting opening 14a, the timing at which the big winning opening 21 is opened at the time of winning the small hit will be deviated. This is because it becomes difficult to give an advantageous game value. In other words, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to give a more advantageous gaming value to the player by not storing the hold based on the ball entering the second starting port 14a. It is.

◇ Modifications ◇
As mentioned above, although one Embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the thing of the content mentioned above, A various modification is applicable.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, in the special game determination performed when a game ball enters the first start port 13a or the second start port 14a, it is determined whether it is a big hit, a small hit or a loss. Although illustrated, it is not restricted to this, For example, in special game determination, it may be determined as a small hit at a rate of 100%. In other words, a special game determination without the possibility of jackpot or loss may be performed. In this case, the special game is performed only when the game ball passes through the specific area 24 during the small hit game.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, as a path | route with which a game ball may enter into the 2nd starting port 14a among the 1st starting port 13a and the 2nd starting port 14a, it is the 1st path | route P1 and the 2nd path | route P2. Although the case where there are two routes is illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, even in a route where a game ball enters the first start port 13a, a first route through which the game ball easily passes through the specific region 24, and a game ball through which the game ball does not pass through the specific region 24 more easily than the first route. You may provide two paths with two paths. Further, in the case of the gaming machine 1 having two start ports, the first start port 13a and the second start port 14a as in the above embodiment, the path for the game ball to enter the second start port 14a is specified. The game path has only the first path P1 through which the game ball easily passes through the area 24, and the game ball is less likely to pass through the specific area 24 than the first path P1 as the path through which the game ball enters the first start port 13a. A configuration having two paths P2 may be employed.

  In the above-described embodiment, the distribution device 23 rotates in a certain direction after turning on the power to distribute the game balls that have entered the special winning opening 21 to either the specific area 24 or the non-specific area 25. Although explained, operation of distribution device 23 is not necessarily restricted to rotation operation. For example, the sorting device 23 may reciprocate the specific region 24 in a straight line or arc shape within a certain range. The distribution device 23 is not limited to moving the specific area 24, and a path for guiding the game ball to either the specific area 24 or the non-specific area 25 may periodically operate. .

  In the above embodiment, the case where the guide member 29 moves in the up-down direction is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the guide member 29 may move in the left-right direction or the front-rear direction.

1 gaming machine 20 movable member 23 sorting device 24 specific area 25 non-specific area 13 first starter
14 Second starter (starter)
29 Guide member (guide means)
P1 first route P2 second route

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a gaming machine (1), provided at a predetermined position in a game area (11) where a game ball is launched and capable of entering the game ball. (13, 14), a first path (P1) for guiding the game ball launched into the game area (11) to the starter (13, 14), and a path different from the first path (P1) A second path (P2) for guiding the game ball launched into the game area (11) to the starter (13, 14), and a position different from the starter (13, 14) in the game area (11) Based on the fact that the game ball enters the starter (13, 14), the game ball is placed in the winning area (22) from the closed state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the predetermined winning area (22). The movable member (20) that can be easily changed to the open state and the game ball that has entered the winning area (22) when the movable member (20) is in the open state is advantageous to the player. A specific area (24) A distribution device (23) that distributes to a non-specific region (25) different from the region (24), and the game ball passes to the starter (13, 14) via the first path (P1) When the movable member (20) is in an open state, when the ball is entered and when the game ball enters the starter (13, 14) via the second path (P2). region (22) varies probabilities are distributed to said specific region (24) ball entrance the game ball by the sorter (23) with each other, said distribution device (23), to the winning region (22) A first position at which a game ball that has entered the ball easily passes through the specific area (24), and a second position at which the game ball that has entered the winning area (22) does not easily pass through the specific area (24). Between the first position (P1) and the second path (P2) to the specific area (24) by the sorting device (23). At the timing when the game ball is easy to pass Guide means (29) is provided to induce the said starting device game balls (13, 14), said induction means (29), Rukoto operate in synchronism with the periodic operation of the sorter (23) It is the structure characterized by these.

Claim 2 according invention is the game machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein the starting device (13, 14), the first path through the game ball first starting device capable ball entrance (13 ) And a second starter (14) that allows a game ball to enter via the second path, and the movable member (20) is connected to the first starter (13). The opening time for the open state is different between when the ball enters and when the game ball enters the second starting device (14).

Claims (4)

A starting device provided at a predetermined position in a game area where a game ball is launched and capable of entering the game ball;
A first path for guiding a game ball launched into the game area to the starter;
A second path for guiding game balls launched into the game area on a path different from the first path to the starter;
The game ball is provided at a position different from the starter in the game area, and the game ball is received from the closed state where it is difficult for the game ball to enter the predetermined win area based on the game ball entering the starter. A movable member that can be changed to an open state that is easy to enter the area;
A distribution device that distributes a game ball that has entered the winning area when the movable member is in an open state into a specific area that is advantageous to the player and a non-specific area that is different from the specific area;
With
The movable member is in an open state when the game ball enters the starter device via the first route and when the game ball enters the starter device via the second route. A gaming machine characterized in that the probabilities that game balls that have entered the winning area are sometimes distributed to the specific area by the distribution device are different from each other. The distribution device includes a first position at which a game ball that has entered the winning area easily passes through the specific area, and a second position at which the game ball that has entered the winning area does not easily pass through the specific area. Is moving periodically between the positions of
Either one of the first path and the second path is provided with guiding means for guiding the game ball to the starter at a timing at which the game ball easily passes through the specific area by the sorting device. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is characterized.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the guiding unit operates in synchronization with a periodic operation of the distribution device. The starter is
A first starter capable of entering a game ball via the first path;
A second starter capable of entering a game ball via the second path;
Have
The movable member has different opening times when the game ball enters the first starter and when the game ball enters the second starter. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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