JP2019103916A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine comprising a performance button which can improve an amusement of a game.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises a depression part which has a depression surface which a player can depress. When the depression surface is depressed, a depression momentum performance is executed with the depression as a momentum. At the time, the depression surface is provided on a surface area which a player can visually confirm, according to progress of a game, a state of a surface area (adjacent area) adjacent to the visible surface area is switched from a state in which the adjacent area cannot be visually confirmed by a player to a state in which the adjacent area can be visually confirmed by a player. Then, since the player can visually confirm the adjacent area, in addition to the area (area in which the depression surface is provided) which the player have visually confirmed, so that, an impression of as if the depression surface became larger, is applied to the player. Therefore, it is possible to give surprise to the player and attract an interest of the player, so that an amusement of a game is improved.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine installed in a gaming hall to cause a player to play a game.

  In the gaming machine installed in the gaming hall, effects are generated to enhance the interest of the game by displaying various effect images on the display screen and outputting the effect music from the speakers as the game progresses. For example, in a pachinko gaming machine, a lottery is performed when the gaming ball enters the entrance, but various effect images and music are generated from when the gaming ball enters the entrance until the lottery result is notified. By outputting, it is exciting the interest of the lottery. In addition, even when the lottery result is notified, the effect image and the music are output, but when the lottery is won, the lottery is won by outputting the effect image and the music different from the case of not winning. The excitement of the game is greatly boosted (eg, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, the game machine does not automatically display the effect image or output the music, but the player operates the so-called effect button provided on the game machine to display the effect image or output the music. A gaming machine has also been devised that starts or switches effect images and music. In this case, when the player presses the effect button, the player operates the effect button while holding an expectation that the effect image or music at the time of winning will be outputted and that the winning of the lottery will be notified. It is possible to enhance the sense of expectation and further enhance the interest of the game.

JP 2004-81853 A

  However, since such effect buttons have become commonplace today, it is becoming difficult to sufficiently enhance the interest of gaming. That is, if it becomes commonplace to operate the effect button, the player will not have great expectation when operating the effect button, and as a result, the interest of the game can not be sufficiently enhanced.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the conventional gaming machine, and the gaming machine has a presentation button capable of improving the interest of the game even when the presentation button becomes conventional. Aims to achieve

In order to solve at least a part of the problems described above, the gaming machine of the present invention adopts the following configuration. That is,
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface on which the player can press at least a part of the surface area visible to the player playing the game;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
By switching the adjacent area, which is a surface area adjacent to the surface area provided with the pressed surface, of the pressing member with the progress of the game from the invisible state to the visible state of the player, Visual recognition area enlargement means for enlarging the visual recognition area of the pressing member seen from the player;
A panel member formed in a plate shape extending in a direction intersecting with the pressing direction of the pressing member while covering at least a part of the adjacent region;
And a light source provided on the side of the adjacent area with respect to the panel member and irradiating the adjacent area with light.
The panel member is a semi-transparent member that transmits a majority or more of light incident from the side of the adjacent region of the panel member and blocks transmission of a majority or more of light incident from the opposite side to the adjacent region. Formed
The visual area enlarging means is a means for transmitting light from the adjacent area through the panel member by irradiating light to the adjacent area using the light source, thereby expanding the visual area. Do.

  Note that various methods can be used when switching the adjacent area from the invisible state to the visible state. For example, it is possible to switch to a visible state by shielding the adjacent region with another member and moving the member. Alternatively, a device (for example, a liquid crystal panel) whose light transmittance changes in accordance with an electric signal is provided between the adjacent area and the player, and the light transmittance is changed to allow light transmission. It is also possible to switch from the disabled state to the visible state.

  Moreover, it may be in any case to switch to the visible state. For example, it may be switched in the case where a gaming state advantageous to the player occurs (when the occurrence of the advantageous gaming state is determined or the probability of the occurrence exceeds a predetermined probability). In this case, since the player tends to associate the occurrence of a state advantageous to the player due to the appearance that the pressing surface is spread, the player presses the pressing member while holding high expectation. . This makes it possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

  Of course, contrary to this, even in the case where the advantageous gaming state for the player does not occur (when it is determined that the advantageous gaming state does not occur, or when the probability of occurrence falls below a predetermined probability) Good. Furthermore, it may be determined randomly whether or not to switch, regardless of whether or not a game state advantageous to the player is generated. Since the player can be surprised to attract the player's interest by expanding the visible area of the pressing member regardless of switching in any case, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  The pressing member does not necessarily have to be a member integrally molded as a whole, and a plurality of separately formed members may be combined to form the pressing member. For example, the area provided with the pressing surface and the adjacent area may be formed on separate members, and the members may be combined to form the pressing member. Even in such a case, it is possible to increase the visual area of the pressing member by switching the adjacent area from the invisible state to the visible state, which attracts the player's interest. It is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  Further, in view of the fact that the pressing surface appears to the player as if it were spread, the adjacent region of the pressing member is adjacent to the surface region provided with the pressing surface in a state viewed from the player. It does not have to be physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between the surface area provided with the pressed surface and the surface area, if the area appears adjacent to the player, it is possible to make the area visible. It is possible to give the player the impression that the lower surface has spread. Therefore, such a region also corresponds to the "adjacent region" of the present invention.

  It is possible to realize a gaming machine provided with a presentation button capable of improving the interest of the game.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a ball game machine 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing a configuration of a game board 20 provided in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a game ball switched the state which is easy to enter into a 2nd operation port, and the state which is hard to enter into a 2nd operation port by driving the electrically-driven combination item 41 provided in the vicinity of a 2nd operation port. It is an explanatory view showing the detailed composition of segment type display 70 provided in ball and ball game machine 10 of this example. FIG. 17 is an explanatory view showing the configuration on the back side of the ball game machine 10 provided with a device for controlling a game played on the game board 20 described above. FIG. 16 is an explanatory view exemplifying a state in which a rendering image is displayed in the rendering display device 30; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control device of a ball and ball game machine 10. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the presentation button 600 of 1st Example. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the effect button 600 as viewed from the side. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that the production | presentation button 600 of 1st Example changes the visual recognition shape of the button member 602. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the production | presentation button 1600 of the 1st modification provided with the button member 1602 of spherical shape. FIG. 18 is an explanatory view exemplifying an effect button 700 of a second modified example provided with a region in which the inside of the upper surface panel 610 can be visually recognized even in the state where the shielding plate 620 is closed. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that the shape of exposed part 602s was made circular and the area | region which the shielding board 820 encloses was formed in the quadrilateral. It is explanatory drawing which showed the production | presentation button 2600 of the 4th modification which provided the star-shaped shielding board. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated a mode that it used combining the shielding board 622a arrange | positioned under the 1st shielding board 620a, the 2nd shielding board 620b, and the 2nd shielding board 620b, and the shielding board 622b. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that it arrange | positioned in the octagon shape which encloses exposed part 602s, overlapping 8 sheets of shielding boards 3622. FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the production | presentation button 5600 of 2nd Example. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that the visual recognition size of the button member 5602 was changed using the production | presentation button 5600 of 2nd Example. FIG. 21 is an explanatory view showing an effect button 6600 of a first modified example using a transparent member for the button member 6602. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the production | presentation button 7600 of the 2nd modification which provided the transparent part 7610t in the inside of half-light-transmission part 7610h. It is an explanatory view showing effect button 8600 of the 3rd modification which changes visual recognition size and visual recognition shape of button member 6602 using shielding board 8620 and LED array 6640 together. It is an explanatory view showing effect button 8600 of the 3rd modification which changes visual recognition size and visual recognition shape of button member 6602 using shielding board 8620 and LED array 6640 together.

Hereinafter, in order to clarify the contents of the present invention described above, the embodiments will be described in the following order.
A. Equipment configuration of ball and ball game machine:
A-1. Front Side Configuration:
A-2. Configuration of the game board:
A-3. Back side configuration:
B. Summary of the game:
C. Controller configuration:
C-1. Main controller configuration:
C-2. Peripheral Configuration:
D. Effects button of the first embodiment:
E. Modification of the first embodiment:
E-1. First modification:
E-2. Second modification:
E-3. Third modification:
E-4. Fourth modified example:
E-5. Fifth modification:
F. Effect button of the second embodiment:
G. Modification of the second embodiment:
G-1. First modification:
G-2. Second modification:
G-3. Third modification:

A. Equipment configuration of ball and ball game machine:
A-1. Front side configuration:
FIG. 1 is a front view of a ball game machine 10 according to this embodiment. As illustrated, the front side of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment is provided with a resin-made front panel 15 constituting the front of the ball and ball game machine 10 and a board portion provided at the center of the front panel 15 12 and an upper plate 13 provided slightly below the front panel 15 and the like. A glass plate is inserted into the board portion 12 from the back side of the front panel 15, and it is possible to visually recognize the game board installed on the back side of the front panel 15 through the glass plate. In FIG. 1, the detailed configuration of the game board is not shown.

  The upper plate 13 is composed of a recess formed in a plate shape and a wall surface surrounding the recess, and it is possible to hold the gaming ball inside the upper plate 13. Further, the upper tray 13 is connected to a launch unit provided inside the ball game machine 10, and it is possible to supply the gaming bowl to the launch unit by inserting the gaming sphere into the upper tray 13. A lower plate 16 is provided below the upper plate 13, and by operating a lever provided in the vicinity of the upper plate 13, the upper plate 13 and the lower plate 16 can be communicated with each other. . As will be described later, since the game balls may be paid out on the upper plate 13 along with the game, the game balls may not fit in the upper plate 13. However, the lower plate 16 is provided in this way By bringing the upper tray 13 and the lower tray 16 into communication with each other, it is possible to discharge the gaming balls which are no longer fit in the upper tray 13 to the lower tray 16.

  On the right side of the upper plate 13 toward the ball game machine 10, an effect button 600 is provided at a position substantially in front of the player (a position substantially in the center of the front of the ball game machine 10). The effect button 600 is configured to be able to be pressed downward of the gaming machine, and when the player presses the effect button 600, various effects are executed. The effect button 600 will be described in detail later.

  At the lower right of the upper tray 13, a launch handle 11 is provided for launching the gaming ball to the gaming board. The launch handle 11 is connected to the launch unit described above, and by operating the launch handle 11 with the gaming ball supplied from the upper plate 13 to the launch unit, it is possible to launch the gaming ball to the gaming board is there. Further, the firing handle 11 is provided with a sensor 11s (not shown), and the sensor 11s can detect whether the player is touching the firing handle 11. And by controlling the launch from the launch unit according to the detection result of the sensor 11s, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being launched in a state where the player is not touching the launch handle 11. .

  Two speakers 14 are provided on the left and right above the front panel 15, and it is possible to output effect sounds such as sound effects and melodies in accordance with the game performed in the ball and ball game machine 10. The speakers 14 are attached from the back side to the front side of the front panel 15, so that the effect sound can be efficiently delivered to the player who plays the game toward the front panel 15.

  In addition, the end of the front panel 15 (right end in FIG. 1) is provided with a key portion 17 that can be locked and unlocked by using a cylinder lock. By locking this key portion 17, the front surface can be obtained. The panel 15 can be fixed to the main body of the ball game machine 10. In addition, it is possible to separate the front panel 15 from the main body of the ball game machine 10 by unlocking the key portion 17. By doing this, various devices provided on the back surface of the front panel 15, or It becomes possible to access the device on the main body side. The front panel 15 is pivotally supported by the main body of the ball game machine 10, and the front panel 15 can be separated from the main body by rotating the front panel 15 with respect to the main body of the ball game machine 10. It is possible.

  Next to the ball and ball game machine 10, a ball game machine 4 is provided, and the player of the ball and ball game machine 10 lends money by inserting a bill and a prepaid card into the ball ball machine 4 when playing a game. The game ball can be borrowed from the ball machine 4. A nozzle 52 is provided between the lending ball machine 4 and the upper tray 13, and the gaming balls lent out from the lending ball machine 4 can be inserted into the upper tray 13 through the nozzle 52. As described above, when the game ball is inserted into the upper plate 13, the game ball is supplied to the launch unit, so the player borrows the game ball from the rental ball machine 4 and operates the launch handle 11. It becomes possible to play a game by firing game balls at 20.

A-2. Configuration of the game board:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing the configuration of the game board 20 provided in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment. As described above, such a game board 20 is attached to the board portion 12 (see FIG. 1) of the front panel 15 from the back side of the glass plate. As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 20 is provided with a rail 21 provided substantially perpendicular to the base plate 29 near the outer edge of the base plate 29 as a base. Inside, a game area 28 in which nails 22 and a windmill 23 are attached is formed. The game balls fired by the shooting unit are guided to the game area 28 by the rails 21 and flow down the game area 28 while the traveling direction is changed by the nails 22 and the windmill 23 or the like. The game area 28 is provided with an opening (ball entrance) through which game balls such as the through operation opening 24, the operation opening 25 and the small winning opening 26 can enter, and the game balls flowing down have these operation openings and small When entering the winning opening, a winning ball is paid out, a jackpot lottery to be described later, and the like are performed.

  Among these ball entrances, the through operation port 24 is a gate-shaped operation port through which the entered game ball can pass, and the game ball entered into the through operation port 24 is discharged from the game area 28 Instead, it passes through the through operation port 24 and continues flowing down on the game board 20. In addition, the through operation port 24 is provided with a sensor 24s for detecting ball entry, and the control device of the ball and ball game machine 10 enters the through operation port 24 by reading out the detection state of the sensor 24s. It is possible to understand what happened. When there is a ball entry into the through operation port 24, the control device of the ball game machine 10 pays out the winning balls for the entry into the through operation port 24 to the upper plate 13 or enters the ball into the through operation port 24. And perform various processes such as performing a lottery.

  On the other hand, the small winning opening 26 is a winning opening of a type in which when the gaming ball enters, the entering gaming ball is taken in and discharged to the back side of the gaming board 20. The small winning opening 26 is also provided with the sensor 26s in the same manner as the through operation opening 24 described above, and the control device detects entry of the small winning opening 26 by reading out the detection state of the sensor 26s. It is possible to pay out the winning balls for entering the winning opening 26.

  Further, the operating ports 25 (the first operating port 25a and the second operating port 25b) of the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment are the same as the small winning opening 26 and the game ball having entered the ball is the back side of the game board 20 Is a type of operation port that discharges These operating ports 25 are also provided with sensors (25as, 25bs), and it is possible to respectively detect the ball entering the first operating port 25a and the second operating port 25b by reading out the detection state of the sensors . In the vicinity of the second operation opening 25b, an electric accessory 41 is provided, and by driving the electric combination 41, the gaming ball can easily enter the second operation opening 25b; It is possible to switch between the difficult-to-ball state. This point will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 shows how the gaming ball switches between the state in which it is easy to enter the second operating port and the state in which it is difficult to enter the second operating port by driving the electric part 41 provided in the vicinity of the second operating port. FIG. As shown in FIG. 3A, the motorized accessory 41 is assembled to the operating port unit 40 provided with the first operating port 25a at the top, and The 2 operation opening 25b is provided. The motorized accessory 41 is connected to a drive mechanism provided inside the operation port unit 40, and the motorized accessory 41 can be driven by the drive mechanism.

  FIG. 3B shows a state in which the motorized prize 41 is driven to widen the space between the motorized prize 41 and the motorized prize 41. As illustrated, when the motorized jack 41 is driven, the space between the left and right motorized jacks 41 is greatly expanded. In this state, the upper surface of the motorized prize 41 is inclined toward the second operation port 25b, and therefore, as shown by the arrows in the figure, the game ball received by the upper surface of the electromotive prize 41 Can be guided in the direction of the second operation port 25b. By doing this, it is possible to realize a state in which the gaming ball is more likely to enter the second operation opening 25b, as compared with the state (see FIG. 3A) in which the space between the left and right electric components 41 is not largely opened. Can. Further, by driving the electric combination 41 and returning the left and right combination 41 to their original positions (see FIG. 3A), it is possible to make the game ball difficult to enter again. As described above, by driving the electrically driven accessory 41, it is possible to easily switch between the state in which the game ball easily enters the second operation port 25b and the state in which the game ball is difficult to enter.

  In the present embodiment, the state in which the game balls easily enter the ball (see FIG. 3 (b)) is widely referred to as the open state of the motorized part 41, and the space of the motorized part 41 is increased. A state in which the game ball is difficult to enter (see FIG. 3A) is referred to as a closed state of the electric combination 41. Here, from the viewpoint of changing the ease of entering the second operation port 25b by driving the motorized character 41, the closed state of the motorized character 41 is completely impossible to enter the game ball. It is not necessary that the second operation port 25 b be closed to any extent, as long as it is more difficult to enter the ball than the open state of the motorized accessory 41.

  In addition, when the game ball enters the first operation port 25a and the second operation port 25b, the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment pays out a prize ball or performs a "big hit lottery" and the result of the lottery is Perform various operations according to your needs. These points will be described later.

  Below the operation opening unit 40 on the game board 20, as shown in FIG. 2, there is provided a large ball entrance 60 which is a large ball entrance. The large ball entrance 60 is equipped with a drive mechanism, and by closing a plate member provided on the front of the opening to the front of the game board 20, the opening is closed and the ball can not enter the closed state. Thus, it is possible to switch to an open state where the opening can be opened and the ball can enter. In the open state of the large ball inlet 60, a large number of game balls can easily enter because the opening is wide, so by opening the large ball inlet 60, it is very difficult for the player. It is possible to create an advantageous gaming state. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, “15” prize balls are paid out for entering the ball into the large ball inlet 60.

  At the lowermost portion of the game area 28, there is provided an out port 50 for collecting game balls that have not entered any of the small winning opening 26, the operating port 25 and the large ball inlet 60. The game balls entered into the out port are discharged from the game board 20 and collected by a ball collection device provided in the ball game machine 10. In addition, the winning balls are not paid out for the gaming balls that have reached the out port 50. Since the out port 50 is provided below the other operating ports and the prize ball port, the player must enter any of the operating ports and the winning port before the game ball reaches the out port 50. Play games as you wish. This makes it possible to attract the player's awareness to the game.

  At the right end of the right side of the game board 20, a segment type display device 70 capable of displaying a predetermined symbol is provided. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are provided inside the segment type display device 70, and it is possible to display symbols by making the LEDs emit light. Moreover, it is possible to make each of the plurality of LEDs emit light individually. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4 below, it is possible to display various characters and numbers by appropriately combining the LEDs to be emitted. It is possible.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing a detailed configuration of the segment type display device 70 provided in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the segmented display 70 of the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment has three display units, a left display unit 72, a center display unit 74, and a right display unit 76. , And each display unit includes seven LEDs (LEDs 72a to 72g in the left display unit 72) and dot-shaped LEDs (left The unit is composed of LEDs 72p). As described above, these LEDs can be individually turned on or off, and by combining the LEDs to be turned on or off, it is possible to represent characters and numbers. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4B, the left display portion 72 is displayed with the numeral “2” by lighting the hatched LED of the left display portion 72.

  Not only numbers but also letters can be displayed. For example, in the example of FIG. 4B, the letter “H” of the alphabet is displayed on the central display unit 74, and the letter “L” is displayed on the right display unit 76. It is possible to display characters and numbers by combining the LEDs to be turned on or off in this manner. Of course, the characters and numbers that can be displayed are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4B, and it is possible to display various characters and numbers as well as symbols such as "-". Further, in the example of FIG. 4B, numbers are displayed on the left display portion 72 and characters are displayed on the center display portion 74 and the right display portion 76. However, contrary to this example, the center display portion It is also possible to display numbers on the display 74 and the right display 76, and to display alphabets on the left display 72.

  In addition, it is also possible to light each LED of the segment-type display apparatus 70 by the combination which does not form a character and a number. For example, by turning on the LED 72a and the LED 72e, it is possible to display an aspect in which neither numbers nor letters can be called. If such a character or a number can not be displayed, it is difficult for the player to immediately understand the meaning of the display. For this reason, the player is expected to have an expectation that a game state advantageous to the player such as "big hit game state" or "probable change state" occurs, or an advantageous game state occurs. It is possible to prevent the player from easily detecting the presence of the player, and to enhance the player's sense of excitement when notifying the player of the occurrence of the advantageous gaming state, thereby improving the interest of the game. is there.

  Each LED of the segment type display device 70 is connected to a main control device 100 to be described later, and the main control device 100 turns on or off each LED of the segment type display device 70 to make various characters, numbers, and symbols. Etc. can be displayed. In addition, it is also possible to display characters and numbers while changing them one after another on the segmented display device 70 by changing the LEDs to be lighted one after another (change display of symbols). In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, such variable display of symbols is started upon entering the ball into the operation port 25.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a through segment display 80 is provided below the segment display 70. Similar to the segment display device 70, the through segment display device 80 is also provided with a plurality of LEDs, and it is possible to individually turn on or off each LED. Moreover, it is also possible to perform the fluctuation display of a symbol by switching LED to light one after another. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, such variable display of symbols on the through segment display 80 is triggered by entering the ball into the through operation opening 24.

  As shown in FIG. 2, at the center of the game area 28, the effect display device 30 having a liquid crystal display device is provided, and various effect images are displayed on the effect display device 30 according to the progress of the game. By displaying, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game of the ball and ball gaming machine 10. The effect display device 30 is controlled by the display control device 300 provided on the back side of the ball game machine 10, and the ball game machine 10 transmits a predetermined command to the display control device 300 according to the progress of the game. By doing this, it is possible to display various effect images according to the progress of the game.

  Above the effect display device 30, an effect role product 35 is provided. A light source is provided in the inside to produce light, and the effect role product 35 can be further rotated by a drive device provided on the back side of the game board 20. Then, the light emission while rotating in conjunction with the effect image displayed on the effect display device 30, or the sudden light emission or rotation regardless of the effect image, to further enhance the interest of the game It is possible. Further, although detailed illustration is omitted, various lamps are provided on the game board 20 and the front panel 15 in addition to the rendering combination 35, and the respective lamps are turned on in accordance with the progress of the game to play the game. It is possible to build up. The effect display device 30, the effect combination product 35, various lamps, and the like are also controlled by the device group provided on the back side of the ball game machine 10.

A-3. Back side configuration:
FIG. 5 is an explanatory view showing the configuration on the back side of the ball game machine 10 provided with a device for controlling a game played on the game board 20 described above. As illustrated, on the back side of the ball and ball game machine 10, the main control device 100 for controlling the game, the sub control device 200 for controlling various effects accompanying the game, and the instruction from the sub control device 200 In accordance with the above, a display control device 300 or the like for displaying various images on the liquid crystal display device of the effect display device 30 is provided. The main control apparatus 100 is equipped with an MPU 102 having a RAM 140, a ROM 110, and the like. The MPU 102, the RAM 140, the ROM 110, and the like cooperate to control a game. Similar to the main control apparatus 100, the sub control apparatus 200 also includes an MPU, and controls effects associated with the game while the MPU and the RAM or ROM in the MPU cooperate with each other. The configurations of the main control apparatus 100, the sub control apparatus 200, and the display control apparatus 300 will be described in detail later.

  The main control unit 100 and the sub control unit 200 are mounted on the back side of the ball game machine 10 in a state of being stored in a transparent plastic case. This plastic case has a structure in which the two case members are coupled to each other with the electronic circuit of the main control device 100 enclosed from both sides, and the plastic case is removed to access the electronic circuit. For this purpose, it is necessary to destroy the connecting portion of the case member and the case member itself. In general, a gaming machine installed in a gaming hall operates a gaming machine by making work on a gaming machine to pay out a prize ball, or illegally acquires a prize ball by making a gaming machine malfunction. If the main control unit is covered with a plastic case like this, when the main control unit 100 is worked, the joint part of the case members may be broken or the case may It can be found that the work was broken by the destruction of the member itself. This makes it possible to prevent the occurrence of damage even in the case of fraud.

  On the back side of the ball game machine 10, a power source device for supplying power to each device such as the performance device drive device 350 for driving the performance object 35, and the main control device 100 and the sub control device 200. 240 etc are also provided. In the upper part on the back side, there is provided a game ball tank 400 which receives supply of game balls from island facilities provided in the game hall. A payout device (not shown) for paying out the winning balls is connected to the game ball tank 400, and the payout device is driven by the payout control device 410 (not shown), whereby the inside of the game ball tank 400 is produced. Can be paid out to the upper plate 13 of the ball game machine 10.

  Further, an external output terminal 910 to which a cable can be connected is provided on the back side of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment. Generally, in the game hall, a computer (hall computer) for collecting information of each game machine installed in the hall is installed, and in the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, the cable from such hall computer is externally By connecting to the output terminal 910, it is possible to transmit various information related to the game played in the ball and ball game machine 10 to the hall computer. For example, a signal indicating that the game ball has been fired from the launch unit, a signal indicating that the game ball has been ejected from the out port 50, a signal indicating that the prize ball has been dispensed, or a prize ball that has been paid out It is possible to transmit information indicating the number of In the hall computer, by collecting such information, it is possible to grasp the number of game balls inserted into the ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment and the number of game balls acquired by the player. As a result, it is possible to grasp the profit status of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment.

  In addition, the external output terminal 910 outputs a signal indicating that the gaming ball has entered the above-mentioned through operation port 24 or the operation port 25 or the segment type display device 70 (see FIG. 4) described above It is also possible to output a signal indicating that the variable display of the symbol has been started, a signal indicating that the variable display is being performed, or a signal indicating that the variable display has ended.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, a frame plate 902 is attached to the ball game machine 10 through a hinge portion 904, and by fixing the frame plate 902 to island facilities of the game hall, It is possible to install the ball and ball game machine 10 in the game hall. In addition, even when the ball game machine 10 is installed in the game hall, it is possible to access each device on the back side by rotating the ball game machine 10 in the front direction with the hinge portion 904 as the axis. It is.

B. Summary of the game:
In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the progress of the game is controlled using each of the above-described configurations, but before describing the details of such control, an outline of the game performed in the ball and ball game machine 10 is described. Keep it.

  First, when the player inserts a game ball into the upper plate 13 and operates the firing handle 11, the game balls supplied from the upper plate 13 to the launch unit are shot one by one into the game area 28 of the game board 20. . The firing unit is configured such that the speed at which the game ball is launched changes in accordance with the rotation angle of the launch handle 11, so that the player adjusts the rotation angle of the launch handle 11 so that the game ball is launched. It is possible to aim for the position to be

  The game ball launched into the game area 28 flows down on the board of the game board 20 while its traveling direction is changed by the nails 22 and the windmill 23 or the like. At this time, since the game balls are flowed over while taking time while being blocked by the nails 22 and the windmill 23, etc., the player can enjoy the movement of the game balls by watching the movement of the game balls, or It is possible to enjoy the interest of the game by watching the game ball while expecting the game ball to enter the operation port 25 and the small winning opening 26 or the like.

  When the game ball flowing down on the game board 20 enters the through operation opening 24, the variable display of symbols is started in the above-mentioned through segment display 80 (see FIG. 2). The fluctuation display of such symbols is continued until a predetermined time (variation display time) elapses from the start of the fluctuation display, and when the fluctuation display time elapses, the symbols are displayed in a stopped state this time. When a predetermined hit symbol is displayed during the stop display of the symbol, it becomes a hit of the through symbol.

  In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when a hit of the through symbol is generated, the motorized part 41 of the operation port unit 40 described above is opened only for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) (FIG. 3) See (b)). As described above, since the gaming ball easily enters the second operation opening 25b in the open state of the electric accessory 41, the gaming ball is entered in the second operation opening 25b for the player during this predetermined time. It becomes an advantageous state that is easy to As described above, if the player is given an advantageous state due to entering the through operation opening 24, the player aims to enter the game ball into the through opening 24 and the shooting position of the game ball is set. Since it is possible to follow the movement of the gaming ball while expecting that the adjusted or fired gaming ball enters the through operation opening 24, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game. In the present embodiment, when the hit of the through symbol occurs, the ball entering the second operation port 25b is supported by the motorized part 41 in this way, so the hit of the through symbol is called "support winning". It shall be.

  As described above, in the through segment display 80, the variable display of the symbol continues for a predetermined time. For this reason, another game ball may enter the through operation opening 24 while performing the variable display of the symbol. In this case, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the entry of the game ball is stored as hold (hold of the through operation opening), and after the fluctuation display of the symbol is finished, the change of the held amount Display. Moreover, it is possible to store not only one hold that can be stored, but also a plurality of holds. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is described that the ball game machine 10 can store up to four reservations.

  In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to confirm the number of through operation port reservations by the display lamp 82 (see FIG. 2) provided on the game board 20. As shown in FIG. 2, four display lamps 82 are provided below the effect display device 30, and the number of the lighted display lamps 82 among the four display lamps 82 is the through operation opening. Corresponds to the number of pending. For example, when there is no hold, none of the display lamps 82 is on. When one hold is stored, one of the display lamps 82 is lit, and when two holds are stored, the two display lamps 82 are lit. Similarly, in the state in which three holds are stored, the three display lamps 82 are lit, and in the state in which four holds are stored, the four display lamps 82 are lit. Further, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, as the number of reservations increases, the display lamp 82 sequentially lights from the display lamp 82 at the left end, and as the suspension is digested, the display lamp 82 Turn off from the right. As a result, it is possible to make the player intuitively grasp the situation in which the suspension increases or decreases, and the effort for the player to grasp the situation of the game is reduced, and the player can enjoy the game more.

  When the game ball flowing down the game board 20 enters the operation port 25 (the first operation port 25a or the second operation port 25b), the variation display of the symbol is displayed on the segmented display device 70 (see FIG. 4). It is started. Similarly to the variable display of symbols on through segment display 80 described above, the variable display of symbols on segment display 70 also continues the variable display of the symbols for a predetermined time, and then the symbols stop Is displayed. At this time, when the symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined hit symbol, the jackpot becomes a "big hit" and the bullet ball gaming machine 10 shifts to the "big hit gaming state". In the "big hit game state", the large ball inlet 60 provided on the game board 20 is in the open state, and the player can easily enter the fired game ball into the large ball inlet 60 and acquire a large number of prize balls. It is possible to As described above, since the jackpot gaming state is a very advantageous state for the player, it is usual for the player to play a game aiming for the jackpot gaming state to occur.

  In addition, whether the symbol of the segment type display device 70 hits and stops at the symbol (whether or not the big hit gaming state occurs) is determined by the big hit lottery performed in the main control device 100 of the ball game machine 10 . The jackpot lottery will be described later. In addition, when the game ball enters the operation opening 25, a series of games from the variable display of the symbol to the stop display is performed, so it is possible to grasp this series of games as one unit of game. From this, in the present embodiment, a series of games from entering the ball to the operation opening to the stop display of the symbol shall be called "one game round".

  When the big hit gaming state is started and the big entry ball opening 60 is in the open state, the big entering ball exit 60 until a predetermined time passes or a predetermined number of gaming balls enter the large entrance ball exit 60 Remains open. Then, when a predetermined time passes or a predetermined number of gaming balls enter the large ball inlet 60, the large ball inlet 60 returns to the closed state. The game from the opening of the large entrance 60 to the closing is called "round game" or simply "round". In the jackpot gaming state, such rounds are repeated a predetermined number of times, and then the jackpot gaming state ends.

  In addition, since the sensor 60s is provided in the large ball inlet 60 and can detect the ball entry of the game ball one by one, a predetermined number of game balls are counted by counting the number of detected game balls. Can detect that the ball enters the large ball entrance 60. Here, depending on the position of the sensor 60s and the detection timing, even if the large entry ball opening 60 is closed at the timing when the predetermined number of entrances are detected, more gaming balls than the predetermined number have already entered at that timing. May be In such a case, it is possible for the player to obtain more than the usual prize balls. Therefore, if the detection timing of the sensor 60s and the position of the sensor 60s are adjusted so that the game balls occasionally enter more than a predetermined number as described above (for example, the position of the sensor 60s Place the game ball several balls behind the surface of 20), while the player wishes to enter as many game balls as possible, the ball enters the large ball until the moment the large ball inlet 60 is closed. The trend of the mouth 60 will be noted. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest more strongly to the round game. Also, when the large entry ball opening 60 is closed after the sensor 60s detects that the predetermined number of gaming balls enter in this way, the large entry ball opening 60 is entered before the predetermined number of gaming balls enter the ball. Since the game player does not close, it is preferable that the player does not have the fear that the large ball inlet 60 is closed even though only a few game balls enter.

  On the other hand, when closing the large entrance ball opening 60 after a predetermined time has passed, the player tries to cause more ball balls to enter the large entrance ball opening 60 before the large entrance ball opening 60 closes, The shooting handle 11 is operated to aim the game ball so that the game ball is directed to the large entrance 60. In this way, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game in which the game ball is launched to a target location. Further, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the large ball inlet 60 is provided on the inner side of the game board 20 than the wind turbine 23 (see FIG. 2). When it is directed inward, it is easy to enter the large ball entrance 60. Therefore, the player plays a game while expecting that the course of the game ball is directed inward by the wind turbine 23, and as a result, the player's attention is drawn to the wind turbine 23 to improve the interest of the wind turbine 23. Can.

  Also, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, a plurality of types of "big hit gaming states" of different number of rounds and the like can occur, and if a big hit occurs, the big hit of any of the plurality of types. Transition to the game state. Here, in order to facilitate the understanding of the following description, various such jackpot gaming states will be described.

  "2R jackpot gaming state (or simply 2R jackpot)" is a jackpot gaming state in which the above-described round is repeated twice. In this jackpot gaming state, since the jackpot gaming state ends when the round is repeated twice, the jackpot gaming state can be ended quickly. In the ball and ball game machine 10, it is possible to improve the interest of the game by changing the game state one after another, but in this way, since the game state changes rapidly, the interest of the game is effectively enhanced It is possible. In addition, it is possible to give the player the impression that the game advances with tempo, and to improve the refreshing feeling of the game.

  In the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, as described later, it is possible to change the jackpot occurrence probability after the jackpot gaming state has occurred. In this embodiment, a state in which the occurrence probability of the jackpot is changed to a high probability (a state in which the jackpot is likely to be won) is referred to as a “probability fluctuation state” or a “probability state”, and a state not changed to a high probability is It is called "probability fluctuation state" or "non-probability state". Also, a jackpot accompanied by a transition to a definite change state is referred to as a "fair change jackpot", and the other jackpots are referred to as a "normal hit".

  Here, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, “explicit probability variation 2R jackpot gaming state (or simply explicit probability variation 2R jackpot)” and “invisible probability variation 2R jackpot gaming state (or simply implicit probability variation 2R jackpot)” Two types of 2R jackpot gaming states are feasible. In these jackpot gaming states, the round is repeated twice and the jackpot with the transition to the definite change state is made, but it is different whether or not the player can easily recognize the transition to the positive change state. Although it will be described in detail later, for example, when “the explicit positive 2R big hit gaming state” occurs, the motorized role 41 (see FIG. 3) has been opened and closed at a low frequency until then. By starting to open and close frequently, the player can recognize that a probability change state has occurred. On the other hand, in the "invisible probability variation 2R jackpot gaming state", such a change does not occur in the operation of the motorized role piece 41. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to easily recognize that the probability change state has occurred. It has become. For this reason, in the "invisible probability variation 2R jackpot gaming condition", it is possible to cause the probability variation condition to occur without the player being aware, and in the end, the player is surprised that the definite variation condition has occurred before long It is possible to give the player a feeling of expectation that the game may be given, or perhaps a definite change state may occur, to enhance the interest of the game.

  “15R jackpot gaming state (or simply 15R jackpot)” is a jackpot gaming state in which the above-described round is repeated 15 times. In this state, since the player can play many round games, a large number of winning balls can be obtained. For this reason, the players tend to want the 15R jackpot gaming state to occur, and therefore, by enabling the 15R jackpot gaming state to be generated in the bullet ball gaming machine 10, the player is expected to have the expectation for the 15R jackpot. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest to the ball game machine 10.

  Also, with regard to the 15R jackpot gaming state, as in the 2R jackpot gaming state, the 15R jackpot gaming state of a plurality of modes may be assumed to be present. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, two types of jackpots such as “normal 15R jackpot gaming state (or simply 15R jackpot)” and “probability 15R jackpot gaming state (or simply odd change 15R jackpot)” as such 15R jackpots The gaming state is executable. Among them, in the "probability 15R big hit", the occurrence probability of the big hit is changed to a high probability at a predetermined timing (for example, when the big hit gaming state ends) after the big hit gaming state occurs. In this case, if a "probability 15R big hit" occurs, it becomes easy to win a big hit after a big hit game, which is a very advantageous state for the player. In addition, since the probability of occurrence of the jackpot is high, it is possible to win the jackpot by the jackpot lottery with a smaller number of times than usual. Therefore, by making it possible to generate the probability variation 15R jackpot, the player has a sense of expectation that a plurality of jackpot gaming states occur in a short period and a large number of gaming balls can be acquired in a short time, It is possible to attract the player strongly to the game. In addition, when the probability change 15R jackpot actually occurs, the player's sense of achievement is greatly enhanced, so it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

  On the other hand, in the "normal 15R jackpot gaming state", transition to the probability change state is not performed after the jackpot gaming state is over. In addition, when it is a definite change state when a 15R big hit gaming state occurs, the transition from the positive change state to the non-positive change state is made. In this way, it is possible to prevent the player from being largely disappointed by the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state even if the probability change state advantageous to the player is ended by changing from the positive change state to the non-positive change state. it can. As a result, it is possible to shift from the probability change state to the non-probability state without significantly reducing the player's interest.

  In addition, as mentioned above, when these big hit game state occurs, the large ball inlet 60 opens and the game ball can enter the ball, but the mode of opening and closing the large ball inlet 60 at this time is each It may be different according to the type of jackpot. For example, in the case of the implicit positive variation 2R jackpot, the large entrance 60 may be opened for a short time (for example, 0.2 seconds). In this way, even if the large ball inlet 60 is opened and closed, the player hardly notices that the large ball inlet 60 is opened and closed, so the player generates a big hit due to the opening and closing of the large ball inlet 60. It is possible to reduce the risk of recognition. Therefore, as described above, if it is changed to the definite change state after the occurrence of the implicit definite change 2R jackpot, it is possible to more surely give the player a surprise that the change is in the definite change state. Alternatively, it is also possible to make a plurality of open / close modes executable for one jackpot type. For example, in the case of a normal 15R jackpot, it is determined by lottery whether to execute the mode in which the open time is repeated 15 times or the mode in which the open time is repeated 15 times. It is also good. In such a case, the player waits for the start of the jackpot gaming state while paying attention to whether or not the large entrance ball opening 60 starts to open and close, so the player is relievedly interested in the game by winning the jackpot. Can be avoided.

  Also, in the case of the explicit definite 2R jackpot, the large entrance ball opening 60 may be opened for a short time as in the implicit definite 2R jackpot. Then, in the case of the explicit positive 2R jackpot, after the large entrance ball opening 60 performs the opening and closing operation, the electric winning combination 41 may be shifted to the gaming state in which the opening and closing operation is frequently performed. In this way, the player can be made to notice the occurrence of the definite change state by the operation of the electric role piece 41 instead of making the opening and closing of the large ball inlet 60 notice. As described above, since the motorized character 41 may be opened and closed due to the ball entering the through operation port 24, the player may receive the electric valve 41 due to the ball entering the through operation port 24. It is difficult to immediately identify whether the electric accessory 41 has opened and closed due to the occurrence of the jackpot or the jackpot. Therefore, it is possible for the player to have the expectation that the explicit positive 2R jackpot has occurred, and to attract the interest of the player to the electric role piece 41. As a result, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game. Become.

  On the other hand, in the case of a normal 15R jackpot or a definite variation 15R jackpot, the large entry ball opening 60 may be opened for a longer time (for example, about 30 seconds) than in the 2R jackpot. In this way, the player can sufficiently recognize that the large ball entrance 60 is opened, and by visually recognizing the game ball entering the large ball entrance 60, the feeling of excitement due to the occurrence of the big hit It will be possible to enjoy the In addition, since it is possible to visually recognize that the game ball enters the large ball entrance 60, the player can further enjoy the game of aiming by operating the firing handle 11 so that the game ball enters the large ball entrance 60 It becomes possible.

  In the present embodiment, an operation state (playing state) in which the large ball inlet 60 repeatedly opens and closes is referred to as an "open / close mode". In addition, the above-mentioned mode that the large ball inlet 60 opens only for a short time is called "low frequency ball entry mode" because gaming balls are difficult to enter, and the large ball socket 60 is longer than the low frequency ball entry mode The above-described aspect of opening over time is referred to as "high frequency entry mode" because game balls are easier to enter than the low frequency entry mode.

  Further, the operating state (playing state) in which the motorized combination 41 repeatedly performs opening and closing is a state in which the ball entering the second operation port 25b is urged, so it is called a "support mode". Furthermore, similarly to the large ball entrance 60 for the electric combination 41, if the time during which the electric combination 41 is open is shortened, it becomes difficult for the game ball to enter, and conversely the time when the combination 41 is open The longer the game ball, the easier it is for the game ball to enter. Therefore, it is possible to change the ease of entering the ball into the second operation port 25b by changing the time during which the motorized accessory 41 opens. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, two types of support modes in which the time when the electric character 41 opens is different can be executed, and the electric character 41 is in the open state among the two types of support modes. The support mode in which the time to maintain the (open time) is shorter than the other support mode is called "low support mode", and the open time of the motorized part 41 is longer than the other support mode "high support mode" It shall be called.

  In such a support mode, it is possible to change the ease of entering the second operation port 25b by changing the number of times the motorized accessory 41 is opened per unit time. From this, when a plurality of types of support modes are provided, the number of times of opening and closing of the motorized part 41 per unit time may be made different among the support modes. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the number of times of opening and closing per unit time of the motorized symbol 41 is larger in the high support mode than in the low support mode. Entry to the operating port 25b is easier than in the low support mode.

  In addition, when starting the support mode after the end of the jackpot gaming state, the type of the support mode to be started may be different according to the type of jackpot. Alternatively, depending on the type of jackpot, the support mode may not be started. In addition, there is a case that the jackpot is won during the execution of the support mode, but in such a case, the type of the support mode may be changed after the jackpot gaming state ends. In this way, it is possible to cause a change in the operation mode of the motorized accessory 41 due to the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state. In the case of the ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, the high support mode is started (in the low support mode) in the case of "normal 15 R jackpot", "probability 15 R jackpot" or "explicit probability 2 R jackpot" In the case of winning these jackpots, the support mode is switched to the high support mode), and in the case of “invisible probability 2R jackpot”, the high support mode is not started (the implicit probability 2R in the low support mode) If the jackpot is won, the support mode is continued to the low support mode without switching to the high support mode.

  As described above, in the ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, when the game ball enters the operation opening 25, the variable display and the stop display of the symbol are performed on the segmented display device 70, and the symbol hits a predetermined symbol When it is stopped and displayed, the game transitions to the jackpot gaming state. At the time of the variable display and the stop display of the symbol, various images and symbols are displayed not only on the segment type display device 70 but also on the liquid crystal display device of the effect display device 30, and effects are performed.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory view exemplifying a state in which the effect image is displayed on the effect display device 30. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6A, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, a character symbol 32 with a number is displayed on the effect display device 30. The character symbols 32 are divided into three stages (see the stages shown as "upper stage", "middle stage" and "lower stage" in the figure) in the vertical direction of the effect display device 30, and are arranged in a row in each stage. Further, a sub-pattern 34 is drawn between the character pattern 32 and the character pattern 32 of each row. Then, when the variable display of symbols is performed on the segmented display device 70, the character symbols 32 and the sub-patterns 34 of each row move in the lateral direction of the effect display device 30 while maintaining the state of being aligned in a horizontal row The situation is displayed.

  As described above, in the segment-type display device 70, the symbol is stopped and displayed when the predetermined variation time has elapsed since the start of the variation display of the symbol. At this time, also in the effect display device 30, the character pattern 32 and the sub-pattern 34 moving in the lateral direction are stopped, and the character pattern 32 and the sub-pattern 34 are stopped and displayed. Here, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to make the mode of the stop display of the character pattern 32 and the sub pattern 34 correspond to the mode of the stop display of the symbol on the segmented display device 70. There is. For example, when the symbol corresponding to the big hit is stopped and displayed on the segmented display device 70, the effect display device 30 causes the character symbols 32 with the same number to be lined up in a row corresponding thereto. It is displayed stopped by.

  FIG. 6 (b) exemplifies a state in which the character symbols 32 with the same numeral are stop-displayed in a line in the vertical direction. As illustrated, on the line indicated as "L1" in the drawing, the character pattern 32 with the numeral "3" is displayed side by side. By displaying the character symbols 32 with the same numerals in this way, it is possible to easily make the player recognize that a big hit has occurred.

  Further, when the character pattern 32 is stopped and displayed, the upper, middle, and lower stages may be simultaneously stopped, but each stage may be stopped at different timings. For example, the upper stage and the lower stage are stopped and displayed, and the middle stage is stopped and displayed last. At this time, if the same character pattern 32 is stopped in a row in the upper row and the lower row, the same character pattern 32 is stopped in the middle row and a jackpot state is generated and the player is expected to hold the expectation. Because it is possible, it becomes possible to raise the interest of the game. In the present embodiment, the display mode in which the symbols of the two stages are aligned and stopped in this way is called reach display, and the effect using the reach display is called reach effect.

  Also, in FIG. 6 (b), an embodiment in which the same character pattern 32 is arranged on the line indicated as "L1" is exemplified, but the embodiment in which the character patterns 32 are arranged in a line is not limited to this embodiment, and various embodiments are It is possible. That is, in the effect display device 30 of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the same character symbol is displayed on one of the five lines from "L1" to "L5" shown in FIG. It is possible to line up 32 and stop display. As described above, even when lined up in any of a plurality of lines, if it corresponds to the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state, the player is expected to expect the same pattern to be lined up on any line of many lines. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the player's sense of expectation and to enhance the interest of the game.

  When the character symbol 32 is stopped and displayed, it may be stopped and displayed in a different manner according to the type of the jackpot. For example, in a big hit (probable big hit) that shifts to a positive variation state such as a positive variation 15R big hit, character symbols 32 with odd numbers such as "1" or "3" are aligned and stopped and displayed, usually 15R big hit In the jackpot transitioning to the non-probability state, the even-numbered character symbols 32 such as “2” and “4” may be aligned in a row and displayed in a stop. In this way, the effect display device 30 can also make the player recognize that it is a jackpot to shift to a definite change state or a jackpot to go to a non-fixed change state.

  On the contrary, in the case of the implicit positive variation 2R jackpot, the character patterns 32 may not be aligned. In this way, it is possible to avoid the possibility that the player will know that the jackpot has occurred by the effect display device 30, and to be surprised that the jackpot gaming state has occurred before long, or the transition to a definite change state before it is late Can be given more reliably.

  The effect display device 30 is provided near the center of the game board 20 and is large in size, so it is easy for the player to catch the eye. Therefore, it is normal for the player to play a game while watching the effect display device 30. Therefore, it is possible to perform an effect effectively by using the effect display device 30. Further, since the effect display device 30 can display a fine image by increasing the number of pixels of the liquid crystal display device as well as having a large area, it is possible to display a high quality image. By displaying such high quality images, it is possible to further enhance the effects of the presentation.

  Further, when the game ball enters the operation opening 25, not only the effect on the effect display device 30 or the variation display of the symbol on the segment type display device 70 may be performed, but the award ball may be paid out. In this case, when the game ball enters the operation opening 25, the variable display of the symbol starts and the possibility of shifting to the big hit state occurs, and the player can enter the operation ball 25. The game will be played while strongly wishing to play the ball. For this reason, it is possible to make the player pay more attention to whether or not the game ball enters the operation port 25 and it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game. Furthermore, since the player can play the game longer by the amount of the prize balls paid out, the player can be attracted longer by the game. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, "3" prize balls are paid out for entering the first operation opening 25a, and "4 pieces" for entering the second operation opening 25b. It is assumed that the award ball of "" will be paid out.

  When the game ball enters the operation opening 25 while performing variable display of symbols on the effect display device 30 or the segment type display device 70, as in the case of the through operation opening 24, the game ball enters the ball Is stored as hold (hold of operation opening), and after the fluctuation display of the symbol is finished, the fluctuation display of the held amount is performed. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the number of holdings of the first operation port 25a can be confirmed by the display lamp 83a (see FIG. 2) provided on the game board 20. Similarly, the display lamp 83b 2 It is possible to check the number of pending ports 25b. As shown in FIG. 2, four indicator lamps 83a and four indicator lamps 83b are provided, and the number of lit indicator lamps among them corresponds to the number of holdings of each operation opening. doing. That is, when there is no hold, any display lamp is turned off, and when there is one hold, one display lamp is lit. Similarly, in the state in which there are two reservations, the two display lamps are lit, in the state in which there are three reservations, three display lamps, and in the state in which there are four reservations, there are four display lamps. Each lights up.

  Further, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, as the number of reservations increases, the display lamps light sequentially from the display lamp at the left end, and as the suspension is digested, the display lamps sequentially from the right Will go out. As a result, it is possible to make the player easily grasp how the suspension increases or decreases. The larger the number of holdings, the larger the number of times a jackpot lottery is performed, and the player tends to desire a large number of holdings. Therefore, it is easy to understand how the numbers of holdings increase and decrease in this way. It is possible to further entertain the player with the fun of the game accompanying the increase and decrease.

  In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is also possible to perform such a display of the number of reservations with the effect display device 30. That is, as shown in FIG. 6A, the design symbol is displayed in a partial area of the effect display device 30 (the first operation port holding display area and the second operation port holding display area), It is possible to display the number of reservations using the effect display device 30. Here, the “first operation port holding display area” in the figure is an area for displaying the number of holdings of the first operation port 25a, and as illustrated, the first area a1 and the second area a2 , And a fourth area a4 and a fourth area a4. And the number of reservations of the 1st operation opening 25a can be displayed by displaying the design pattern of the same number as the number of reservations of the 1st operation opening 25a sequentially from the left of a display area.

  For example, if the number of reservations of the first operation port 25a is "2", corresponding to this, the design symbols are displayed in two areas (the first area a1 and the second area a2) from the left of the first operation port hold display area Can be displayed to indicate that the number of holdings of the first operation port 25 a is “2”. Similarly, the second operation opening reserve display area is configured of four display areas of the first area b1, the second area b2, the third area b3, and the fourth area b4. By displaying the corresponding number of design symbols in the display area, it is possible to display the number of reservations of the second operation port 25b.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 20 is also provided with a small winning opening 26. When the gaming ball enters the small winning opening 26, in the bullet ball gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out to the upper tray 13 as a winning ball. As described above, if the winning balls are paid out with the entry to the small winning opening 26, the player can play the game ball to the small winning opening 26 even if the jackpot lottery is not performed at the entry to the small opening 26. There is a tendency to play while expecting to enter the ball. Therefore, by providing the small winning opening 26, it is possible to attract the interest of the player to the game and to increase the interest of the game without increasing the number of times of the jackpot lottery.

  In addition, if the small winning opening 26 is provided below the gaming board 20 than the operation opening 25, there is a possibility that the small winning opening 26 will enter even if the game ball does not enter the opening 25. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player's interest from being diverted by the game ball not entering the operation opening 25. This makes it possible to attract the player more strongly to the game.

  On the other hand, when the game ball does not enter any of the ball entrances such as the through operation opening 24 and the operation opening 25, the game balls are collected to the out port 50 provided at the bottom of the game board 20. It is discharged out of the game board 20. In this case, the player can not obtain a winning ball. As described above, in the ball game machine 10, a game is performed in which the player shoots the game ball and enters the operation port 25 or the small winning opening 26 on the game board 20. The game proceeds while being paid out and various effects are performed. Below, the detailed structure of the control apparatus which controls this game is demonstrated.

C. Controller configuration:
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control device of the ball and ball game machine 10. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, the control device of the gaming machine is configured of a main control device 100, a sub control device 200, a display control device 300, and the like. The main control device 100 plays a role of mainly controlling the progress of the game, such as performing the above-described jackpot lottery or performing transition to the jackpot gaming state according to the result of the jackpot lottery. Further, by transmitting commands instructing various operations to the sub control device 200 and the payout control device 410, these devices are made to execute various operations. In FIG. 7, the direction in which data and signals are input and output is indicated by black arrows.

C-1. Main controller configuration:
The main control device 100 is provided with a one-chip type MPU 102 on which the arithmetic device 104, the ROM 110, the RAM 140 and the like are mounted. Inside the chip of the MPU 102, the arithmetic device 104, the ROM 110, and the RAM 140 are mutually connected by a bus, and data can be transmitted and received between them. The MPU 102 can read out a program from the ROM 110 using such a bus connection, and can execute various instructions described in the read program in the arithmetic device 104. In addition, arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction can be performed using the arithmetic unit 104. The MPU 102 also includes a program register for temporarily storing the read program, a program counter for storing the address (an address in the program) of an instruction being executed in the arithmetic device 104, and an arithmetic operation in the arithmetic device 104. A working register or the like for storing various data to be used is also provided, and the program can be appropriately executed using these configurations.

  The MPU 102 also has a timer interrupt function that generates interrupts at regular time intervals for the program being executed. When an interrupt is generated by the timer interrupt function, the MPU 102 suspends program execution and stores the value of the program counter in the stack memory in the MPU 102. Further, the values of the respective registers such as the working register are also stored in the memory in the MPU 102. Then, the start address of the program to be interrupted and executed is acquired from the program register of the MPU 102 and the program is executed. Also, when the program executed by interruption is completed, the value of the program register stored in the stack memory in the MPU 102 is read, and the value of each register stored in the memory in the MPU 102 is returned to each register . Then, by starting execution of the original program from the address stored in the program register, it is possible to resume the original program from the continuation. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the timer interrupt function is used to execute processing for detecting ball entry into the through operation port 24 and processing for detecting ball entry into the operation port 25.

  The ROM 110 is provided with a plurality of storage areas capable of storing various data. Among these, the program area 111 stores a program to be executed by the MPU 102. The program area 111 also stores various data necessary for program execution, such as the start address of the program. The MPU 102 controls the ball and ball gaming machine 10 by reading these programs and data from the program area 111 of the ROM 110 and executing the program.

  In the lottery table area 112 of the ROM 110, a "big hit lottery table" which is referred to when a big hit lottery is performed by the main control device 100 is stored. In the jackpot lottery table of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, each numerical value from "0" to "599" is associated with the result of the jackpot lottery for each numerical value, "0" to "599" It is possible to determine the success or failure of the jackpot lottery for the acquired numerical value by acquiring any numerical value up to “from the jackpot random number counter and referring to the jackpot lottery table.

  The distribution table area 113 stores a “distribution table” which is referred to when a big hit occurs. As described above, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to generate jackpot gaming states of a plurality of types such as the implicit probability variation 2R jackpot and the normal 15R jackpot. Therefore, when a jackpot has occurred, it is determined which of the jackpot gaming states of these jackpot gaming states is to be executed by referring to the distribution table.

  In the stop mode table area 114, a “stop mode table” to be referred to when the symbol display is stopped and displayed on the segmented display device 70 is stored. In the stop mode table, it is determined for each of the LEDs whether or not each LED of the segment display 70 is to be turned on. By turning on or off each LED according to the stop mode table, the segment display 70 can be operated. It is possible to display a predetermined stop symbol.

  The variable display time table area 115 stores a “variable display time table” in which a time (variable display time) for performing variable display of symbols in the segment display device 70 is set. In the variable display time table, a plurality of variable display times having different lengths are set in a state in which numbers indicating the respective variable times are given. When performing the fluctuation display of the symbol, after determining the number of the fluctuation display time, the fluctuation display time of the symbol is determined by reading out the fluctuation display time corresponding to the number with reference to the fluctuation display time table .

  The command information storage area 116 stores various commands that the main control apparatus 100 transmits to the sub control apparatus 200, the payout control apparatus 410, and the like. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, these commands are binary data consisting of a predetermined data length (number of bytes), and therefore, they can be stored on the ROM 110. As described above, when the command is stored in the ROM 110, when the main control apparatus 100 transmits the command to the sub control apparatus 200, the payout control apparatus 410, etc., the stored command is read and the sub control apparatus It may be sent to 200 or to the payout control device 410. In this way, it is possible to transmit the command quickly because it is not necessary to generate a new command each time the command is transmitted.

  The classification of each storage area of the ROM 110 described above is classified by focusing on the contents to be stored, and it is not necessary that these storage areas are actually divided and configured on the ROM 110. Of course, it is also possible to divide and configure on the ROM 110 in practice. For example, in the address space of the ROM 110, an address may be configured separately for each storage area, or each storage area may be allocated to different banks using a so-called bank structure. As described above, if each storage area is actually divided and configured on the ROM 110, the data of each storage area is stored in the ROM 110 in a state of being grouped, so that data can be read more quickly from each storage area. It becomes.

  The RAM 140 of the main control device 100 is a random access memory capable of temporarily storing various data used for the progress of the game. The RAM 140 is also bus-connected to the arithmetic device 104 like the ROM 110, and the MPU 102 can store data of the arithmetic device 104 in the RAM 140 or read data of the RAM 140 and transfer the data to the arithmetic device 104. It is also possible to store data in the ROM 110 in the RAM 140 by reading data from the ROM 110 and writing the data in the RAM 140. Furthermore, since the RAM 140 and the ROM 110 are bus-connected, when the data of the ROM 110 is stored in the RAM 140, the data of the ROM 110 can also be written directly to the RAM 140 without passing through the arithmetic device 104. By so doing, data in the ROM 110 can be written to the RAM 140 more quickly, and the processing load on the arithmetic device 104 when writing data in the ROM 110 to the RAM 140 can be reduced.

  Although not shown in FIG. 7, the main control device 100 is also provided with a backup device. This backup device monitors the voltage supplied from the power supply device 240 to the main control device 100, and when the voltage falls below a predetermined voltage, determines that a power failure has occurred and sends a power failure notification signal to the main control device 100. Send. When the main control apparatus 100 receives the power failure notification signal, the main control device 100 performs power failure processing such as closing the large entrance ball opening 60 and stops the operation of the MPU 102. At this time, a backup voltage is supplied to the RAM 140 from a capacitor for backup, which makes it possible to hold data stored in the RAM 140 as it is even during a power failure. Since the capacitor for backup has a large capacitance, and the RAM 140 does not require much power if only maintaining the storage state, supplying the voltage from the capacitor for backup in this manner makes It is possible to keep the memory state for a long time. As a result, when recovering from a power failure, it is possible to resume the operation in a state where the storage state of the RAM 140 is restored to the original state.

  The RAM 140 focuses on the contents of data to be stored and functions realized by the stored data, as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of storage areas (counter area 141, pending storage area 142, flag area 143, It can be understood that the electric role holding area 144, the command buffer 145, and the general purpose area 146 are provided. The details of the process using these storage areas will be described later, but in order to facilitate understanding, each storage area will be briefly described.

  The “counter area 141” is provided with a jackpot random number counter used for judging the jackpot of the jackpot, a jackpot type counter used when deciding the type of jackpot, and the like. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the jackpot random determination can be determined by acquiring the value of the jackpot random number counter and referring to the jackpot lottery table stored in the lottery table area 112 of the ROM 110 It is. Further, the jackpot type can be determined by acquiring the value of the jackpot type counter and referring to the distribution table stored in the distribution table area 113 of the ROM 110.

  The “pending storage area 142” is a storage area for storing entry of the operation port 25 as a pending. That is, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when another game ball enters the operation opening 25 while the variable display of the symbol is being performed by the segment type display device 70, the ball is entered. In order to store as hold, the value is acquired from the big hit random number counter or the big hit type counter and stored in the hold storage area 142. Further, in the present embodiment, in response to the provision of the two operation ports of the first operation port 25a and the second operation port 25b, the storage area 142 is a "first operation port storage area" Two hold storage areas of "second operation port hold storage area" are provided, and it is possible to individually store a hold for each operation port.

  The “flag area 143” is an area for holding various flags which are set to ON or OFF in response to a change in gaming state accompanying the progress of the game, occurrence of a jackpot, or the like. For example, as described above, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to shift to a big hit gaming state of a plurality of types such as 15 R big hit and 15 R big hit normally. A “normal 15R jackpot flag” or a “probable 15R jackpot flag” is provided in the flag area 143. When a jackpot has occurred, a jackpot flag corresponding to the type of jackpot is set (set to ON). Also, when the jackpot gaming state ends, the corresponding jackpot flag is reset (set to OFF). Therefore, by referring to each jackpot flag, it is possible to determine whether or not the jackpot gaming state, and to determine which type of jackpot gaming state the jackpot gaming state is.

  The “motor-operated item holding area 144” is an area for storing entry of the through operation port 24 as a hold. That is, when the gaming ball enters the through operation opening 24 as described above, the variable display of the symbol is performed by the through segment display 80, but the gaming ball is displayed while the variable display of the symbol is performed. When the ball enters the through operation port 24, the ball is stored as a hold. The motor-operated work holding area 144 is a storage area for storing such a hold. The numerical value read out from the motorized combination release counter 141f is temporarily stored in the motorized combination hold area 144, and when the fluctuation display of the symbol is finished, the numerical value is read out from the motorized combination hold area 144 and the fluctuation display of the symbol The reserve is digested by being done.

  The “command buffer 145” temporarily stores commands to be transmitted to the peripheral devices connected to the main control device 100 (such as the sub control device 200, the motorized combination product drive unit 42, the large entry ball opening drive unit 62, etc.) It is a buffer area to save. The main control device 100 of the ball and ball game machine 10 stores various commands in the command buffer 145 according to the progress of the game, and outputs the commands to the sub control device 200 and the electric combination drive unit 42 at predetermined timings. It is possible to control the operation of each of these devices.

  The “general area 146” is a general-purpose storage area capable of temporarily storing various data when the main control device 100 controls a game, and temporarily storing the calculation result of the calculation device 104. It is. The MPU 102 of the main control apparatus 100 can appropriately execute processing by appropriately using the general-purpose area 146 when executing various programs for controlling a game.

  As described above, the main control device 100 controls the progress of the game using these components. At this time, various processing is performed according to signals from various sensors (such as 11s) connected to the main control apparatus 100 and the payout control apparatus 410. In addition, the main control device 100 transmits various commands to each device such as the sub control device 200 connected to the main control device 100 and the motorized accessory drive unit 42, thereby performing the operation of each device. Control. Below, the configuration of these peripheral devices connected to the main control device 100 will be described.

C-2. Peripheral Configuration:
The sub control device 200 is a control device that receives a command transmitted from the main control device 100 and performs various controls according to the command, and mainly plays a role of controlling various effects associated with the game. Although the detailed description is omitted, the sub control device 200 also includes an MPU, a ROM, and a RAM as in the main control device 100, and can execute various processes using these devices. Further, a display control device 300 is connected to the sub control device 200, and the display control device 300 displays various effect images and effects on the effect display device 30 in accordance with an instruction from the sub control device 200. It is possible to execute an effect using the display device 30.

  When the sub control device 200 receives a command from the main control device 100, the sub control device 200 analyzes the command to obtain various types of information included in the command, and performs various effects processing according to the obtained information. For example, when a command (variation start command) including information on variation display time of the symbol of the segment type display device 70 and variation pattern of the symbol is received, it is connected to the display control device 300 by sending an instruction to the display control device 300 The effect display device 30 variably displays the effect pattern. At this time, since the command sent from the main control device 100 includes information on the fluctuation display time of the symbol on the segment display device 70, the sub control device 200 is controlled by the effect display device 30. It is possible to execute the variation display of the effect pattern in accordance with the variation display of the symbol on the segment type display device 70. Moreover, it is also possible to stop the variation display of the effect pattern on the effect display device 30 (to make the final display displayed) in accordance with the stop display of the symbol on the segment type display device 70.

  Further, as described above, reach effects are possible in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, but also with respect to such reach effects, the sub control device 200 performs predetermined processing in accordance with a command from the main control device 100. It is realized by doing. That is, when the sub control device 200 receives a change start command from the main control device 100, it determines whether or not there is a time required to perform reach effect based on the information on the change display time included in the change start command. Do. Then, when it is determined that the reach effect can be executed, it is determined whether or not the reach effect is actually performed, and when the reach effect is performed, a predetermined command is transmitted to the display control device 300. The reach display is performed by the effect display device 30. Not only such reach effects but also various other effects are realized by transmitting commands from the main control apparatus 100 to the sub control apparatus 200.

  In addition, the sub control device 200 is also connected to the effect button 600 described above. A push button type electric switch is incorporated in the effect button 600, and when the player presses the effect button 600, the connection state of the electric switch changes, and the sub control device 200 is pressed that the effect button 600 is pressed. Can be detected. By using the effect button 600, in the ball and ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to start a special effect or change the content of the effect triggered by the depression of the effect button 600.

  For example, when the value acquired from the jackpot random number counter is a predetermined value, the main control apparatus 100 notifies the sub control apparatus 200 via a command to that effect. In response to this, the sub control device 200 displays on the effect display device 30 an image prompting the player to press the effect button 600. Then, when it is detected that the player has pressed the effect button 600, the effect image to be displayed on the effect display device 30 and the sound effect to be output to the speaker 14 are switched. For example, if the result of the lottery is a big hit, the image (moving image or still image) displayed on the effect display device 30 is changed from the image displayed up to that point to the effect image (moving image or still image) notifying the winning of the big hit. Switch. Alternatively, if the result of the lottery is out, it switches to the effect image (moving image or still image) corresponding to the out. In this case, the player presses the effect button 600 while having a sense of expectation that a jackpot may occur, and the player himself presses the effect button 600 and the result of the lottery is revealed. , It is possible to enliven the interest when notifying the lottery results.

  Further, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is also possible to transmit a control signal from the sub control device 200 to the effect button 600. The effect button 600 of the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment is provided with a mechanism that receives and drives this control signal, whereby the attraction of the effect using the effect button 600 can be further improved. This point will be described in detail later.

  The display control device 300, like the main control device 100 and the sub control device 200, includes a control circuit on which an MPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like are mounted, and can execute various processes using these components. . Further, image data of various images to be displayed on the effect display device 30 is stored in advance. These image data are stored in a state in which various encoding processes have been performed, which avoids a situation where the storage area for storing the image data becomes excessive. The display control device 300 decodes the encoded image data using an MPU, a decoding LSI or the like, and outputs the decoded image data to the effect display device 30. By doing this, it is possible to rapidly display the effect-processed image data on the effect display device 30.

  As shown in FIG. 7, not only the sub control device 200 but also the sensors provided in the through operation port 24 and the operation port 25 are connected to the main control apparatus 100. Each of the sensors provided at the ball entrance sends a signal to the main control unit 100 when it detects the ball entry of the game ball, and in response to this, a latch circuit (not shown) provided in the main control unit 100 By entering the latch state, the game ball is stored. The MPU 102 of the main control device 100 can detect the ball entering the through operation port 24 or the operation port 25 by reading out the state of the latch circuit.

  The motorized part drive unit 42 includes an actuator for opening and closing the motored part 41, a drive circuit for driving the actuator, and the like. The main control device 100 can open and close the motorized prize 41 by transmitting a signal to the motorized prize drive unit 42 and operating the motorized prize drive unit 42. Also, the large entrance ball opening drive unit 62 is also constituted of an actuator for opening and closing the large entrance ball opening 60, a control circuit for driving the actuator, etc. By transmitting a signal to 62, it is possible to open and close the large entrance ball opening 60.

  The aforementioned segment display device 70 is also connected to the main control device 100. Therefore, the main control device 100 can output a signal to the segmented display device 70 to perform variable display or stop display of the symbol on the segmented display device 70.

  The payout control device 410 is a device for controlling the payout device connected to the game ball tank 400 (see FIG. 5) as described above, and by operating the payout device via the payout control device 410, the game ball It is possible to pay out the game balls in the tank 400 to the upper tray 13 (see FIG. 1) of the ball game machine 10. The main control device 100 operates the payout device via the payout control device 410 to thereby receive a prize ball for entering the ball into the operation openings such as the through operation opening 24 and the operation opening 25, the small winning opening 26 and the large winning opening. Pay out the winning balls for entering the winning opening such as the ball mouth 60. In addition, the payout device is provided with a counter for counting the number of gaming balls paid out, and the main control device 100 is determined for each ball entrance by referring to this counter via the payout control device 410. It is possible to confirm that a predetermined number of game balls have been paid out. Furthermore, the payout device is provided with an abnormality sensor for detecting an abnormality, such as when the gaming ball tank 400 is empty or when the passage for paying out the gaming ball is clogged up and the gaming ball can not be paid out normally. ing. The main control device 100 can also detect whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the payout situation of the winning balls by examining the output signal of the abnormality sensor.

  As shown in FIG. 7, an external output terminal 910 is also connected to the main control device 100. As described above, the external output terminal 910 is provided on the back side of the ball game machine 10, and it is possible to connect a cable from a hall computer installed in the game hall to the external output terminal 910 (see FIG. 5). If a signal is output from the main control device 100 to the external output terminal 910 while the cable from the hall computer is connected to the external output terminal 910, various signals are transmitted to the hall computer via the external output terminal 910. Is possible.

  It is possible to output various signals to the external output terminal 910, but in the ball and ball game machine 10 of this embodiment, it becomes possible to transmit a "big hit signal" indicating that a big hit has occurred. There is. In addition, various modes can be adopted as a mode for outputting the jackpot signal, but in a simple manner, it is sufficient to output a pulse when the result of the jackpot lottery becomes a jackpot. In this way, the hole computer can easily detect that the jackpot has occurred by detecting the pulse. Alternatively, instead of temporarily outputting a signal when a jackpot is generated, the signal may be continuously output while a jackpot is generated and the jackpot gaming state continues. For example, while not in the jackpot gaming state, the voltage level is maintained at the low level (“Low” state), while the voltage level is maintained at the high level (“High” state) during the jackpot gaming state. In this way, the hall computer can detect that a big hit has occurred by detecting a change in voltage level. In addition, since the voltage level corresponds to the current gaming state (in this case, whether it is a jackpot gaming state or not), it is easy to determine whether the jackpot gaming state is still ongoing by examining the voltage level. It is possible to detect.

  Further, in the bullet ball gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to output a predetermined signal even when the game balls of the game ball tank 400 run short. In this way, the gaming hall can detect the shortage of gaming balls with the hall computer, and as a result, it is possible to normally operate the ball gaming machine 10 by taking measures such as supplying the gaming balls. It becomes.

  Furthermore, a signal indicating that the gaming ball has been paid out, and a signal indicating that the gaming ball has been discharged from the out port 50 can also be output. Although various aspects can be adopted as the aspect of outputting these signals, for example, a pulse may be output each time the game ball is paid out or ejected from the out port 50. In such a case, a pulse may be output for each ball of the gaming balls, or a pulse may be output for each predetermined number of gaming balls (for example, every 10 balls). In any case, the hole computer can count the number of pulses paid out and the number of game balls discharged from the out port 50 by counting the pulses. In addition, it is possible to make it possible to grasp the number of the launched game balls by the hall computer by outputting a pulse each time the game balls are fired. In this way, it is possible to grasp not only the number of game balls discharged from the out port 50 (so-called number of out) but also the difference between the number of game balls fired and the number of out (so-called safe number) .

  In addition, it is also possible to output a signal indicating that the front panel 15 (see FIG. 1) is open. In order to output such a signal, a sensor or a switch may be provided between the front panel 15 and the main body, and the open / closed state of the front panel 15 may be detected by the sensor or the switch. Alternatively, the open / close state of the front panel 15 may not be detected directly but may be detected indirectly based on the state of the key portion 17. For example, a sensor is provided in the key unit 17, and the locking state of the key unit 17 is detected by the sensor. Normally, when the ball game machine 10 is installed in the game hall, since the key unit 17 is locked, when the key unit 17 is unlocked, it is presumed that the front panel 15 is opened. be able to. Therefore, if a signal indicating the sensor state provided in the key portion 17 is output, it is possible to detect the open / close state of the front panel 15 by the hall computer. In addition, if the state of the key portion 17 is detected in this way, even if you forget to lock the key portion 17 after the front panel 15 is closed, it is possible to detect that the lock is not performed by the hall computer. . As a result, it is possible to avoid the possibility of receiving an illegal act due to an inadequate locking of the key portion 17.

  Note that these various signals may be output using different signal lines and terminals for each signal, or may be output by sharing signal lines and terminals among a plurality of signals. Good. For example, if so-called serial communication is performed, or a plurality of signals are collectively encoded into one signal, it is possible to share signal lines and terminals among the plurality of signals. In this way, even when the number of signal lines and the number of terminals are limited, many types of signals can be output.

  The launch control device 500 is connected to a launch unit that launches a game ball, and the launch control device 500 controls the launch unit to properly launch the game ball. In addition, a pulse signal of a predetermined cycle is transmitted from the main control device 100 to the launch control device 500, and by causing the launch unit to launch the gaming ball based on this pulse signal, the gaming ball is appropriately used. It is possible to fire at regular intervals. Further, a touch sensor 11s provided on the firing handle 11 is connected to the main control device 100, and the main control device 100 can grasp whether or not the player is touching the firing handle 11. Therefore, when the player does not touch the firing handle 11, the main control device 100 stops the pulse signal transmitted to the firing control device 500, so that the game ball does not touch the firing handle 11. It is possible to avoid the situation where it is fired.

  Furthermore, a variable resistor provided on the launch handle 11 is also connected to the launch control device 500. The variable resistor changes its resistance value according to the rotation angle of the firing handle 11, so that the firing control device 500 fires the game ball based on the resistance value of the variable resistor. By controlling, it is possible to fire the gaming ball with a strength according to the rotation angle of the firing handle 11.

  In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the progress of the game is controlled using each of the above-described configurations, and various effect images are displayed on the effect display device 30 as the game progresses, and the sound effects from the speaker 14 And output music. At this time, as described above, it is possible to switch the effect mode in response to the effect button 600 being pressed. In the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, by adopting the following configuration for the effect button 600, it is possible to further improve the enjoyment of the effect using the effect button 600.

D. Effects button of the first embodiment:
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the structure of the effect button 600 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8A, a disk-shaped button member 602 is provided in the effect button 600 of the first embodiment. A central portion of the button member 602 protrudes and is exposed from the top panel 610, and the player can operate the effect button 600 by depressing the exposed portion 602s (white arrows in the figure). See).

  Below the button member 602, an electric switch 604 that switches between the connected state and the disconnected state in synchronization with the vertical movement of the button member 602 is provided on the lower surface panel 612. As described above, the electric switch 604 is connected to the sub control device 200. Therefore, the sub control device 200 detects that the effect button 600 is pressed and displays the effect image to be displayed on the effect display device 30. It is possible to switch or change music and sound effects output from the speaker 14. Although not shown, a spring member is incorporated below the button member 602, and plays a role of urging the button member 602 upward (toward the top panel 610).

  The upper surface panel 610 constitutes a part of the surface of the ball game machine 10 (see FIG. 1), and the upper surface panel 610 hides the inside of the upper surface panel 610 when viewed from the player. . Here, the upper surface panel 610 is formed of a transparent plastic material in a range where the button member 602 is provided (a range indicated by rough hatching and “610t” in FIG. 8A). . For this reason, when viewed from above (the player's side) the upper surface panel 610, it is possible to visually recognize the inside of the upper surface panel 610 for this range (the transparent portion 610t).

  Here, in the effect button 600 of the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8B, the projecting portion of the button member 602 is surrounded between the lower side of the upper surface panel 610 and the button member 602. In the state, the pair of shielding plates 620 (first shielding plate 620a and second shielding plate 620b) is provided. Each of the first shielding plate 620 a and the second shielding plate 620 b is connected to an actuator (not shown), and can be moved in a direction (left and right direction in the drawing) along the top panel 610.

  These actuators are connected to the sub control device 200, and the sub control device 200 moves the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b in the left and right directions in the figure by transmitting control signals to the actuators. Is possible. In the effect button 600 of the first embodiment, by using such a configuration, the shape (visible shape) of the button member 602 viewed from the player is changed as follows.

  FIGS. 9 and 10 are explanatory views showing how the effect button 600 of the first embodiment changes the visible shape of the button member 602. FIG. FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the effect button 600 as viewed from the side. The electric switch 604 and the lower panel 612 are not shown in order to avoid complication of the drawings. FIG. 9A shows a state in which the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are closed (the state of FIG. 8B). As shown, in this state, the first shielding plate 620 a and the second shielding plate 620 b are located between the top panel 610 and the button member 602. Therefore, when viewed from the upper side (player's side) of the upper surface panel 610, although the inside of the upper surface panel 610 can be seen through the transparent portion 610t, the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b interrupt the button member The inner part of 602 is not visible. Therefore, the button member 602 is in a state where only the central exposed portion 602s can be seen.

  Here, when the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are moved, the shielding plate is pulled out from between the upper surface panel 610 and the button member 602 as shown in FIG. 9B. Eventually, it will be in the state completely pulled out from between the upper surface panel 610 and the button member 602 (refer FIG.9 (c)). When the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are moved from between the button member 602 and the top panel 610 in this manner, the shape of the button member 602 seen from the player can be changed as follows. It is.

  FIG. 10 shows a state of the effect button 600 when the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b move viewed from the player's side (the upper side of the top panel 610). In FIG. 10, the upper surface panel 610 is omitted to avoid the illustration being complicated. FIG. 10 (a) shows the state shown in FIG. 9 (a) as viewed from the player side (a cross section cut along the broken line indicated by AA 'in FIG. 10 (a) Corresponds to FIG. 9 (a)). As described above, in the state where the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are not moved (the state of FIG. 8 and FIG. 9A), the shielding plate surrounds the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602 Since the player and the button member 602 are blocked, only the exposed portion 602s can be seen by the player.

  Here, when the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are moved, as shown in FIG. 10 (b), a portion hidden by the shielding plate 620 of the button member 602 is gradually visible. (See the part with rough hatching in the figure). Then, when the shielding plate 620 is completely moved from between the upper surface panel 610 and the button member 602 (the state of FIG. 9C), as shown in FIG. It will be in a state where the whole is seen

  Then, to the player, the button member 602 (see FIG. 10 (a)), which initially appeared to be a small size, appears as if it were enlarged to a large size (see FIG. 10 (c)). . This makes it possible to surprise the player and improve the interest of the game.

  As described above, in the ball and ball game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to change the size (visible size) of the button member 602 viewed from the player. Since changing the size of the button member 602 is usually difficult for the player to imagine, it is possible to give the player a great surprise. In addition, since the button member 602 is enlarged, it is possible to remind the player that a game state advantageous to the player such as the jackpot game state occurs. This makes it possible to greatly improve the interest of the game.

  Further, in the effect button 600 of the first embodiment, a part of the button member 602 is concealed by the shielding plate 620, and the size (visible size) of the button member 602 viewed from the player is enlarged by removing the shielding plate. I am doing it. In this way, even if the button member 602 is provided with a complicated mechanism and does not actually have a complicated mechanism such as changing the size by actually changing the size, or providing two button members 602 having different sizes and switching them, etc. It is possible to give the player an impression as if the button member 602 is enlarged by using a simple mechanism for moving. For this reason, it is possible to keep the configuration of the ball game machine 10 simple while making it possible to improve the interest of the game.

  Also, when changing the visible shape of the button member 602, for example, the button member 602 may be divided into a plurality of segments, a light source may be provided in each segment, and the visible shape may be changed by controlling the light source to emit light. Conceivable. However, in such a case, it may be difficult for the player to surprise the player because the player can predict that the effect button will light up for each segment from the appearance that the button members are segmented. is there. On the other hand, in the effect button 600 of this embodiment, it is difficult for the player to predict that the visible shape of the button member 602 changes even if the player looks at the effect button 600. This makes it possible to surely give a surprise to the player.

  In addition, the above-mentioned operation | movement which changes the visual recognition size of the button member 602 can be performed in various cases, and may be performed in any case. In any case, since the visual recognition size of the button member 602 changes, it is possible to surprise the player and improve the interest of the game. For example, it is preferable to change the visible size of the button member 602 in the following case.

  As described above, in the ball-and-ball game machine 10, segment-type display of an effect that prompts the player to press the effect button (for example, an effect of displaying an image prompting the effect display device 30 or outputting a sound effect from the speaker 14) It is possible to carry out while displaying the change in the device 70. In such a case, the player is urged to press the effect button 600 both in the case of actually winning a big hit (normally 15R big hit, 15% positive hit, etc.) in the lottery accompanying the variable display and in the other case. It is also possible to produce an effect. In this case, since the player presses the effect button 600 while holding an expectation that a jackpot will occur if the effect button 600 is pressed, it is possible to enhance the player's sense of expectation and improve the interest of the game. is there. In addition, even when the jackpot does not occur, it is possible to prevent the player from becoming monotonous by making the player have expectations.

  However, not only in the case of the jackpot but also in the case of the player, it may occur that the player loses expectation even if the effect of prompting the user to press the effect button 600 is performed. In particular, since the probability of occurrence of a jackpot is limited, if it is attempted to increase the execution frequency of such effects so that the game does not become monotonous, the case of not being a jackpot will increase by all means, and as a result, the player holds expectations It tends to disappear.

  Therefore, if the visual size of the button member 602 is increased in this way, it is possible to give a surprise to the player, and even if the player does not have expectations, the player's interest is captured and a jackpot is generated. It is possible to have the expectation of This makes it possible to improve the interest of the game.

  In the effect button 600 of the first embodiment, although the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b are opened and closed, the player holds the finger on the shielding plate 620 because the opening and closing is performed inside the top panel 610 It is possible to avoid the possibility of injury due to the opening and closing operation of the shielding plate 620. Thus, even if the member (the shielding plate 620) for hiding the button member 602 is provided to perform the opening and closing operation, if it is performed inside the upper surface panel 610, the risk of the player being injured may be avoided. It is possible. Further, at this time, if the transparent portion 610t is provided in a part of the upper surface panel 610 so that the inside of the upper surface panel 610 can be seen, even if the shielding plate 620 opens and closes inside the upper surface panel 610 It is possible to change the size as the shield plate 620 is opened and closed. This makes it possible to achieve both the function of changing the visible size of the button member 602 using the opening and closing of the shielding plate and the safety.

  In addition, in the effect button 600 of the first embodiment, it is possible to restore the visible size of the button member 602 to the original size by moving the shielding plate 620 to the original position. Therefore, it is possible to easily increase or decrease the visual recognition size according to the progress of the game. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest more strongly, which in turn makes it possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

E. Modification of the first embodiment:
Below, the modification of the presentation button 600 of 1st Example mentioned above is demonstrated. In addition, while attaching | subjecting the code | symbol same about the structure similar to the Example mentioned above, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

E-1. First modification:
In the embodiment described above, it has been described that a part of the disk-shaped button member 602 is exposed and exposed from the top panel 610. However, the button member may be formed into a spherical shape, and a part of the spherical shape may be exposed from the top panel 610.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory view showing an effect button 1600 of a first modified example provided with a spherical button member 1602. As shown in FIG. 11A, in the effect button 600 of the first modified example, the button member 1602 is formed in a hemispherical shape. A part of the spherical shape is exposed from the top panel 610, and the player can press the exposed portion 1602s (see the white arrow in the figure).

  Also in the effect button 1600 of the first modification, a pair of shielding plates 620 (first shielding plate 620a and second shielding plate 620b) is provided, and the peripheral portion of the exposed portion 1602s of the button member 1602 is shielded. It is possible to make the peripheral portion of the exposed portion 1602s of the button member 1602 invisible to the player by concealing it by 620.

  As shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, when the shielding plate 620 is moved from this state, the peripheral portion of the exposed portion 1602s is a player through the transparent portion 610t of the top panel 610. It will look like As a result, as in the embodiment described above, it is possible to attract the player's interest by giving the player a surprise as if the button member 1602 was deformed and enlarged.

  Further, in the effect button 1600 of the first modified example, since the exposed portion 1602s of the button member 1602 and the peripheral portion of the exposed portion 1602s are connected in a spherical shape, the exposed portion 1602s is moved when the shielding plate 620 is moved. It is possible to make the boundary between the peripheral portion of the and the exposed portion 1602s inconspicuous. From the viewpoint of the player, this boundary is the contour of the button member 602 before moving the shielding plate 620, so if this boundary is obscured, it is as if the button member 602 was deformed and enlarged. It is possible to give a certain impression more reliably. In addition, with the button member 1602 having such a shape, it is possible to keep the manufacturing process of the gaming machine simple, since it is not necessary to form the member into a spherical shape and to form the complicated shape. It is suitable.

E-2. Second modification:
In the effect button 600 of the first embodiment described above, it has been described that the inside of the top panel 610 can not be visually recognized when the shielding plate 620 is closed. However, an area in which the inside of the top panel 610 can be viewed may be provided even when the shielding plate 620 is closed.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory view exemplifying the effect button 700 of the second modified example in which a region in which the inside of the upper surface panel 610 can be viewed is provided even when the shielding plate 620 is closed. As shown in FIG. 12A, in the effect button 700 of the second modified example, the range surrounded by the first shielding plate 720a and the second shielding plate 720b is larger than the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602. (See the portion indicated by the arrow in FIG. 12 (a)). For this reason, as shown in FIG. 12B, the upper surface is obtained even in a state where the shielding plate 720 is closed between the portion where the shielding plate 720 is hidden (the portion around the exposed portion 602s) and the exposed portion 602s. An area in which the inside of the panel 610 can be viewed (see a portion with a fine hatching in FIG. 12B) is provided.

  Then, in the state after moving the shielding plate 720 (the state in which the visible size of the button member 602 is enlarged), the state of the button member 602 in the original state (the state before the visual size of the button member 602 is enlarged). The player hardly knows where the outline was. For this reason, it is possible to more reliably give the player an impression as if the button member 602 itself has become large.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, the shape of the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602 and the shape surrounded by the shielding plate 720 are described as being the same shape (circular shape in the example of FIG. 12). It may be For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the shape of the exposed portion 602s may be circular, while the region surrounded by the shielding plate 820 may be square. In such a different shape, a portion having a different shape is not hidden by the shielding plate 820 even when the shielding plate 820 is closed, so this portion is visible inside the upper panel 610 (see “B Please refer to the part shown as "). In this way, only by forming the shape of the region surrounded by the shielding plate 820 and the shape of the exposed portion 602s different from each other, the button member 602 does not know the outline position of the button member 602 before moving the shielding plate 820. It is preferable because it is easily possible to give an enlarged impression.

E-3. Third modification:
In the embodiments described above, it has been described that the shielding plate 620 is moved until the button member 602 is completely visible. However, since the visible size of the button member 602 can be changed by moving the shielding plate 620, the shielding plate 620 does not necessarily have to be moved to a position where the entire button member 602 can be seen, and is moved halfway It may be

  For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the shielding plate 620 may be moved to a state in which the button member 602 is hidden by half. In the state shown in FIG. 10B, since the player can be given an impression as if the button member 602 is deformed and spread in the vertical direction of the figure, the player is surprised as in the above-described embodiment. It is possible to attract the interest of the player.

  Further, a state in which the shielding plate 620 surrounds the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602 (see FIG. 10A) and a state in which the shielding plate 620 hides the button member 602 by half (see FIG. 10B). And the state in which the shielding plate 620 moves sufficiently and the entire button member 602 can be seen (see FIG. 10C), in accordance with the progress of the game in the ball game machine 10 It is good also as things. For example, the state in which the entire button member 602 can be viewed is considered to most attract the player's interest because the button member 602 appears the largest among the three states. Therefore, when the possibility of winning the big hit lottery (big hit expected value) is high, the effect button 600 is changed to this state. If the jackpot expectation value is lower than that but higher than normal, the effect button 600 is changed so that the shielding plate 620 hides the button member 602 by half. In this way, since the jackpot expected value can be reflected on the visible size of the button member 602, surprises are given to the player by changing the visible size of the button member 602, and the interest of the player is more strongly drawn. Is also possible.

  When changing the visual recognition shape of the button member 602 according to the jackpot expected value, the following procedure may be performed. First, based on the command sent from the main control device 100, the sub control device 200 grasps the success / failure determination result of the jackpot lottery. If the result of the judgment is a winning, the visual recognition size of the button member 602 is enlarged. Here, even if the result of the judgment of the success or failure is not a winning, the visible size of the button member 602 is enlarged if a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, when the value of the big hit random number counter is acquired in the main control device 100, if the value is a predetermined value determined in advance, the visible size of the button member 602 is enlarged.

  In this case, when the visual recognition size of the button member 602 is enlarged, the probability that the jackpot is actually won (the jackpot expected value) expands the visual recognition size of the button member 602 due to the occurrence of the jackpot actually. It becomes settled by the ratio of the probability to make it and the probability which enlarges visual recognition size, even if a non-judgment result is not winning. For example, it is assumed that the value of the jackpot random number counter takes values from “0” to “599”, and “7” of these corresponds to the jackpot. Further, when “0” is acquired, the visual recognition size of the button member 602 is enlarged even if it is not a jackpot. At this time, since the ratio of the probability of expanding the visible size of the button member 602 to the probability of not increasing is 1 to 1 due to the occurrence of a big hit actually, the big hit expected value is "one half" (“1” for “1 + 1”). In such a case, if the shielding plate 620 is completely moved to make the entire button member 602 visible (see FIG. 10C), the jackpot expected when the button member 602 is in this state The value is one half.

  In addition, even if the jackpot is not won, it is possible to lower the jackpot expectation value by increasing the probability of expanding the visible size of the button member 602. For example, in the above-described example, when the value of the jackpot random number counter is “0” to “3”, the visible size of the button member 602 is enlarged even if it is not jackpot. In this case, the ratio of the probability that the visible size of the button member 602 is expanded even though it is not the jackpot to the probability that the visual size of the button member 602 is actually magnified due to the jackpot is 4: 1. As a result, the jackpot expected value is "one-fifth" ("one" for "four"). In such a case, if the shielding plate 620 is moved to a state in which the button member 602 can be seen in half (see FIG. 10 (b)), this state of the button member 602 is determined to be a jackpot expected value of 1/5. It is possible to correspond to

E-4. Fourth modification:
In the embodiment described above, it has been described that the size (visible size) of the button member 602 seen from the player is changed. However, from the viewpoint of giving a surprise to the player, the shape (visible shape) of the button member 602 viewed from the player may be changed.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory view showing an effect button 2600 of the fourth modified example in which a star-shaped shield plate is provided in addition to the shield plate 620 of the embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 14A, in the effect button 2600 of the fourth modification, a pair of shielding plates other than the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b is provided below the shielding plate 620. (A first shielding plate 2620a and a second shielding plate 2620b) are provided. The first shielding plate 2620 a and the second shielding plate 2620 b are also connected to the actuator in the same manner as the shielding plate 620, and can be moved in the direction along the top panel 610.

  FIGS. 14B and 14C show the effect button 2600 of the fourth modification viewed from the upper side (player's side) of the top panel 610. In FIG. 14B, the first shielding plate 2620a and the second shielding plate 2620b are buttoned in a state where the shielding plate 620 is moved and the entire button member 602 is seen (a state corresponding to FIG. 14A). The movement in the direction of the member 602 is shown. The outline of the inner side (the side of the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602) of the first shielding plate 2620a and the second shielding plate 2620b has a star shape, and therefore, the first shielding plate 2620a and the second shielding plate In a state where 2620b surrounds the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602, the button member 602 looks like a star when viewed from the player. As described above, by forming the shape of the shielding plate (the shape surrounding the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602) into a desired shape, the shape (visible shape) of the button member 602 seen from the player can be obtained. It is possible to change to a desired shape using

  Further, since the effect button 2600 of the fourth modified example is provided with the same shielding plate 620 as the embodiment described above, if the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602 is surrounded using the shielding plate 620, the embodiment described above is implemented. Similar to the example, it is possible to make the visual recognition shape of the button member 602 circular (see FIG. 10A). Although it is not always necessary to provide a plurality of shielding plates in this way, if a plurality of shielding plates having different shapes surrounding the exposed portion 602s are provided, the visible shape of the button member 602 can be varied depending on which shielding plate is used. It is possible to switch. This is preferable because it is possible to give the player a greater surprise. Further, since variations in the visible shape of the button member 602 can be increased, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the player becoming accustomed to changes in the visible shape of the button member 602 and to more surely enhance the interest of the game. .

E-5. Fifth modification:
When a plurality of shielding plates are provided, not only one of the plurality of shielding plates may be used, but the plurality of shielding plates may be used in combination.

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory view exemplifying a state in which the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b and the shielding plate 622a and the shielding plate 622b disposed below the second shielding plate 620b are used in combination. In the example shown in FIG. 15 (a), a shielding plate 622a and a shielding plate 622b are provided below the second shielding plate 620b, and the first shielding plate 620a and the second shielding plate 620b use the button member 602. The shielding plate 622a and the shielding plate 622b are moved in a state of covering half. Then, as shown in FIG. 15 (b), the button member 602 is covered using the first shielding plate 620 a and the second shielding plate 620 b and the two shielding plates 622 a and the second shielding plate 622 b. Can. In the example of FIG. 15, the shielding plate 622a and the shielding plate 622b cover both end portions (upper and lower sides in the drawing) of the button member 602, and as a result, the button member 602 has a laterally extended shape. It is possible to change the visible shape.

  As described above, by combining and using a plurality of shielding plates, it is possible to switch the visible shape of the button member 602 in various ways according to the combination of the shielding plates. It is possible to avoid the possibility of getting bored. Further, by arranging a plurality of shielding plates in an overlapping manner between the button member 602 and the upper surface panel 610, the configuration of the effect button 600 can be kept compact even if a plurality of shielding plates are provided, which is preferable. is there.

  In addition, a plurality of shielding plates may be overlapped and arranged so as to surround the exposed portion 602s of the button member 602 in a polygonal shape. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 16, the eight shielding plates 3622 are arranged in an octagonal shape surrounding the exposed portion 602s while overlapping each other. By arranging the shielding plate in this manner, it is possible to move the shielding plate while maintaining the polygonal shape even when moving the shielding plate. For example, in the example of FIG. 16, when moving the shielding plates 3622, as shown in FIG. 16B, it is possible to move while maintaining the octagonal shape.

  In this way, it is possible to change only the size of the button member 602 without significantly changing the visible shape of the button member 602. As a result, the player can be more reliably given the impression that the button member 602 itself has become deformed and enlarged. In addition, since the size of the polygon surrounding the exposed portion 602s can be controlled by adjusting the amount of movement of the shield, the size of the button member 602 can be easily changed to a desired size. Therefore, it is possible to change the size to a desired size according to the progress of the game, and as a result, it is possible to further diversify the effect using the effect button 600 and further enhance the interest of the game.

F. Effects button of the second embodiment:
In the effect button 600 of the first embodiment described above, the visible size and the visible shape of the button member 602 are changed by moving the shielding plate 620 which covers a part of the button member 602. However, it is also possible to change the visual recognition shape and visual recognition size of the button member using a method different from this. Below, the effect button of 2nd Example which changes the visual recognition shape and visual recognition size of a button member using the transmitted light from the inside of an upper surface panel is demonstrated.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment. As illustrated, a button member 5602 is also provided in the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment. A part of the button member 5602 is exposed to the surface through the hole of the top panel 5610, and the player can depress this exposed portion 5602s. An electric switch 5604 is provided below the button member 5602, and the connection state of the electric switch 5604 changes in conjunction with the up and down of the button member 5602. Since the electric switch 5604 is connected to the sub control device 200, the sub control device 200 can detect that the electric switch 5604 is pressed.

  The upper surface panel 5610 is a plastic panel which constitutes a part of the surface of the ball and ball game machine 10 in the same manner as the effect button of the first embodiment described above. As described above, the exposed portion 5602s of the button member 5602 is exposed from the hole provided in the upper surface panel 5610. Here, in the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment, a portion of the upper surface panel 5610 surrounding the exposed portion 5602s of the button member 5602 (see a portion indicated by hatching in the figure and denoted by 5610h) is semi-transparent It is formed of a sex member. The semi-transmissive portion 5610 h blocks most of the light from the outside (the player's side) of the top panel 5610 and transmits the light from the inside (the side on which the button member 5602 is provided) of the top panel 5610. It has the nature. Although various members having such properties can be used for the semi-transparent portion 5610 h, this embodiment will be described as using an acrylic half mirror (magic mirror) panel.

  An LED array 5640 (5640a and 5640b) in which a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are arranged is provided on the inner side of the top panel 5610 (the side on which the button member 5602 is provided). The LED array 5640 is connected to the sub controller 200, and can be turned on or off in response to a control signal from the sub controller 200. By using such a configuration, in the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment, the visible size of the button member 5602 is changed as follows.

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the visual recognition size of the button member 5602 is changed using the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment. FIG. 18A shows a state in which the LED array 5640 is turned off. When this state is viewed from the side of the player, as described above, since the semi-transparent portion 5610 h has the property of a half mirror, light from above the top panel 5610 is reflected by the semi-transparent portion 5610 h As a result, the button member 5602 inside the top panel 5610 can not be visually recognized (see the solid arrow in the figure). Therefore, only the exposed portion 5602 s of the button member 5602 can be seen by the player.

  On the other hand, FIG. 18B shows a state in which the LED array 5640 is lit. As illustrated, when the LED array 5640 is turned on, the button member 5602 provided on the inside of the top panel 5610 is irradiated with light to illuminate the button member 5602. Then, light is scattered on the surface of the button member 5602, and part of the scattered light travels to the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h. At this time, since the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h has a property of transmitting light from the inside (the opposite side of the player) of the upper surface panel 5610, the light from the button member 5602 is transmitted through the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h Will be delivered to As a result, the button member 5602 on the inside of the top panel 5610 is visible to the player. As a result, the button member 5602, which was able to see only the portion of the exposed portion 5602s, becomes visible to the peripheral portion of the exposed portion 5602s, and as a result, gives the player an impression as if the button member 5602 became large. Is possible.

  Thus, in the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment, a part of the button member 5602 is concealed using a semi-translucent member (semi-translucent part 5610 h), and the button member 5602 is illuminated with light. The visible shape (visible size) of the button member 5602 is changed by transmitting the light through the semi-transmissive member (the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h). As a result, it is possible to surprise the player and attract the player's interest to the game. In addition, since the light scattered on the surface of the button member 5602 is viewed, it is possible to give an impression as if the button member 5602 itself is emitting light. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest more strongly.

  From the viewpoint of emitting light from the side of the button member 5602 toward the upper side of the top panel 5610, it is also conceivable to incorporate a light source into the button member 5602 itself. However, since the button member 5602 moves up and down, when the light source is provided on the button member 5602, it is necessary to firmly fix the light source so as not to drop off. In addition, since the button member 5602 may be roughly handled by the player, it is necessary to have durability. For this reason, if it is going to provide a light source in button member 5602 itself, a strong structure will be needed by all means.

  In this point, in the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment, the light source (the LED array 5640) is provided at a place (upper surface panel 5610) different from the button member 5602 and light from the light source is scattered on the surface of the button member 5602 Causes the light to be emitted above the top panel 5610. In this case, the light source does not have to be provided on the button member 5602. Therefore, a strong structure is not necessary, and the configuration of the button member 5602, the LED array 5640, and the like can be kept simple. In addition, since the light source is provided at a location different from that of the button member 5602, even if the button member 5602 is rough treated, a situation in which the light source is significantly damaged can be avoided. This also makes it possible to improve the durability of the effect button 5600.

G. Modification of Second Embodiment:
Below, the modification of the production | presentation button 5600 of 2nd Example mentioned above is demonstrated. In addition, while attaching | subjecting the code | symbol same about the structure similar to 2nd Example, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

G-1. First modification:
A transparent member may be used as the button member, and light transmitted through the button member may be emitted through the semi-transparent portion 5610 h of the top panel 5610.

  FIG. 19 is an explanatory view showing an effect button 6600 of a first modified example using a transparent member as the button member 6602. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, in the effect button 6600 of the first modified example, the LED array 6640 (6640 a and 6640 b) is provided below the button member 6602. The button member 6602 is formed of a transparent acrylic material having a tint, so that light from the LED array 6640 is transmitted through the button member 6602 and emitted toward the top panel 5610.

  Also in such a case, since the light is transmitted through the semi-transparent portion 5610 h of the top panel 5610, the player can visually recognize the light from the button member 6602 inside the top panel 5610. As a result, the state in which only the exposed portion 6602s of the button member 6602 is visible is changed to a state in which the periphery of the exposed portion 6602s is also visible, giving the player an impression as if the shape of the button member 6602 has changed. It becomes possible.

  In addition, when light is transmitted through the inside of the button member 6602 in this manner, the light entering the inside of the button member 6602 not only transmits through the button member 6602 but also scatters on the surface of the button member 6602 to a wide angle. While spreading, it spreads in the whole inside of a button member while reflecting and scattering on the surface of the button member 6602. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the variation in the light quantity for each location of the button member 6602 and uniformly light the entire 6602. As a result, it is possible to make the button member 6602 more clearly floated. As a result, it is possible to more reliably give the player the feeling that the shape of the button member 6602 has changed, and to more surely improve the interest of the game.

G-2. Second modification:
In the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment described above, it has been described that the semi-transmissive semi-transmissive portion 5610 h is provided around the exposed portion 5602 s of the button member 5602. Here, in addition to the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h, a transparent portion made of a transparent member may be provided between the semi-transmissive portion 5610 h and the exposed portion 5602 s.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory view showing an effect button 7600 of the second modified example in which the transparent portion 7610 t is provided inside the semi-transparent portion 7610 h. FIG. 20A shows that the effect button 7600 is viewed from the upper side (player side) of the upper surface panel 7610. As illustrated, a transparent portion 7610 t is provided around the exposed portion 5602 s of the button member 5602 (a ring-shaped portion indicated by a solid arrow in the drawing).

  FIG. 20 (b) shows the effect button 7600 of the second modification viewed from the side. As illustrated, the transparent portion 7610 t is provided between the semi-transmissive portion 7610 h and the exposed portion 5602 s of the button member 5602. Since the transparent portion 7610t transmits light, when viewed from the upper side (player's side) of the upper surface panel 7610, the inside of the upper surface panel 7610 can be viewed through the transparent portion 7610t for the transparent portion 7610t. is there. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 20A, when viewed from the player, the exposed portion 5602s of the button member 5602 and the surrounding portion can be seen.

  When the LED array 5640 is turned on in this state, the entire button member 5602 can be seen through the semi-transparent portion 7610 h as in the case of the effect button 5600 of the second embodiment described above. Thereby, also in the effect button 7600 of the second modified example, it is possible to change the visible shape of the button member 5602.

  Here, in the effect button 7600 of the second modified example, since the transparent portion 7610 t is provided, an impression as if the button member 5602 was deformed and enlarged when the visible shape of the button member 5602 was changed. Can be held by the player with certainty. That is, in the state before the visual recognition shape is changed, or in the state after the visual recognition shape is changed, when the player looks at the button member 5602, the portion constituting the contour of the button member 5602 is the top panel 7610 Inside the player (opposite to the player). Therefore, it is possible to avoid the possibility that the appearance of the outline of the button member 5602 may differ greatly between the state before changing the visual recognition shape and the state after changing the visual recognition shape. This makes it possible to change the visual recognition shape of the button member 5602 while giving a more natural impression, and as a result, the player can surely feel as if the button member 5602 was deformed and enlarged. It becomes possible.

G-3. Third modification:
Further, similarly to the effect button 600 of the first embodiment described above, a shielding plate is provided between the button member and the upper surface panel, and the shielding plate and the light source are used in combination to confirm the visual recognition shape and visual recognition size of the button It may be changed.

  FIGS. 21 and 22 are explanatory views showing an effect button 8600 of the third modified example in which the visible size and the visible shape of the button member 6602 are changed by using the shielding plate 8620 and the LED array 6640 in combination. As shown in FIG. 21, in the effect button 8600 of the third modified example, a pair of shielding plates 8620 (8620a and 8620b) is provided inside the upper surface panel 5610. Also, an LED array 6640 (6640a and 6640b) is provided, and it is possible to make the LED array 6640 emit light and illuminate the button member 6602. In the example shown in FIG. 21, the light from the LED array 6640 is made to transmit the transparent button member 6602 as in the second modification described above, but in the case where the light is made to transmit the button member 6602 Instead, light may be scattered on the surface of the button member 6602 as in the second embodiment described above (see FIG. 18).

  FIG. 21B shows the state in which the shielding plate 8620 a and the shielding plate 8620 b are moved in the direction of the exposed portion 6602 s of the button member 6602 while the LED array 6640 is lit. Since the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b are formed of a material that shields light, when the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b are thus moved, the light from the button member 6602 is shielded by the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b. Will be

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory view showing the appearance button 8600 of the second modification viewed from the upper side (player side) of the upper surface panel 5610. As shown in FIG. FIG. 22A shows a state in which the LED array 6640 is turned off. As described in the second embodiment described above, in this state, the portion inside the top panel 5610 of the button member 5602 is not visible, and only the exposed portion 5602s is visible. In addition, when the LED array 6640 is turned on, the light from the button member 6602 passes through the semi-transparent portion 5610 h and reaches the player, so that the entire button member 6602 is, as shown in FIG. It will be visible to the player.

  Here, when the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b are moved in the direction of the exposed portion 6602s (see the solid line arrow shown in FIG. 22B), the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b are covered as described above. The light is blocked and the light can not reach the player. As a result, as shown in FIG. 22C, the player can see only the portions not covered by the shielding plates 8620a and 8620b. Thus, the visible shape of the button member 6602 can be changed to a shape (star shape in the example of FIG. 22) surrounded by the shielding plate 8620a and the shielding plate 8620b.

  As described above, if the light from the button member 6602 is blocked by the shielding plate, the visible shape of the button member 6602 can be changed to a shape corresponding to the shielding plate. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest by giving the player an impression as if the button member 6602 was deformed. In addition, since the button member 6602 is illuminated by the light source (the LED array 6640 in the example of FIG. 21), the shape of the button member 6602 can be more clearly raised. Therefore, even in the case where the shape of the shielding plate is made more complicated to make the visual recognition shape of the button member 6602 a complicated shape, it is possible to change the shape into the shape reliably. For example, it is possible to make the shape of the shield plate a complicated shape such as a cut picture, and change the visible shape of the button member 8602 into such a complicated shape. This makes it possible to attract the player's interest more strongly by the effect button 8600.

  As mentioned above, although the effect button of a present Example and a modification was demonstrated, this invention can be implemented in various aspects, unless it deviates from the meaning not only in each Example and modification mentioned above .

[Inventions embodied in the above-described embodiments and variations]
In general, in a gaming machine installed in a gaming hall, effects are generated to enhance the interest of the game by displaying various effect images on a display screen and outputting effect music from a speaker as the game progresses. For example, in a pachinko gaming machine, a lottery is performed when the gaming ball enters the entrance, but various effect images and music are generated from when the gaming ball enters the entrance until the lottery result is notified. By outputting, it is exciting the interest of the lottery. In addition, even when the lottery result is notified, the effect image and the music are output, but when the lottery is won, the lottery is won by outputting the effect image and the music different from the case of not winning. The excitement of the game is greatly enlivened.

  In addition, the game machine does not automatically display the effect image or output the music, but the player operates the so-called effect button provided on the game machine to display the effect image or output the music. A gaming machine has also been devised that starts or switches effect images and music. In this case, when the player presses the effect button, the player operates the effect button while holding an expectation that the effect image or music at the time of winning will be outputted and that the winning of the lottery will be notified. It is possible to enhance the sense of expectation and further enhance the interest of the game.

  However, since such effect buttons have become commonplace today, it is becoming difficult to sufficiently enhance the interest of gaming. That is, if it becomes commonplace to operate the effect button, the player will not have great expectation when operating the effect button, and as a result, the interest of the game can not be sufficiently enhanced.

  Therefore, in order to solve at least a part of these problems, the gaming machine A1 adopts the following configuration. That is,

Game machine A1:
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface on which the player can press at least a part of the surface area visible to the player playing the game;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
By switching the adjacent area, which is a surface area adjacent to the surface area provided with the pressed surface, of the pressing member with the progress of the game from the invisible state to the visible state of the player, A gaming machine A1 comprising: visual area enlarging means for enlarging the visual area which is the area of the pressing member seen from the player.

  The gaming machine A1 is provided with a pressing member having a pressing surface that can be pressed by the player, and when the pressing surface is pressed, a pressing trigger effect is executed triggered by that. Here, although the pressed surface is provided on the surface area visible to the player, in the gaming machine A1, as the game progresses, the surface area (adjacent area) adjacent to the visible surface area is The player switches from the invisible state to the visible state.

  In this way, in addition to the area originally seen by the player (the area provided with the pressed surface), the area adjacent to that area can also be seen, so that the pressed surface looks as if it were spread to the player. It is possible to give a good impression. This makes it possible to give the player a surprise and attract the player's interest, and as a result, it becomes possible to press the pressing portion in a state where the player's interest is attracted, thereby improving the interest of the game. It becomes possible.

  Note that various methods can be used when switching the adjacent area from the invisible state to the visible state. For example, it is possible to switch to a visible state by shielding the adjacent region with another member and moving the member. Alternatively, a device (for example, a liquid crystal panel) whose light transmittance changes in accordance with an electric signal is provided between the adjacent area and the player, and the light transmittance is changed to allow light transmission. It is also possible to switch from the disabled state to the visible state.

  Moreover, it may be in any case to switch to the visible state. For example, it may be switched in the case where a gaming state advantageous to the player occurs (when the occurrence of the advantageous gaming state is determined or the probability of the occurrence exceeds a predetermined probability). In this case, since the player tends to associate the occurrence of a state advantageous to the player due to the appearance that the pressing surface is spread, the player presses the pressing member while holding high expectation. . This makes it possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

  Of course, contrary to this, even in the case where the advantageous gaming state for the player does not occur (when it is determined that the advantageous gaming state does not occur, or when the probability of occurrence falls below a predetermined probability) Good. Furthermore, it may be determined randomly whether or not to switch, regardless of whether or not a game state advantageous to the player is generated. Since the player can be surprised to attract the player's interest by expanding the visible area of the pressing member regardless of switching in any case, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  The pressing member does not necessarily have to be a member integrally molded as a whole, and a plurality of separately formed members may be combined to form the pressing member. For example, the area provided with the pressing surface and the adjacent area may be formed on separate members, and the members may be combined to form the pressing member. Even in such a case, it is possible to increase the visual area of the pressing member by switching the adjacent area from the invisible state to the visible state, which attracts the player's interest. It is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  Further, in view of the fact that the pressing surface appears to the player as if it were spread, the adjacent region of the pressing member is adjacent to the surface region provided with the pressing surface in a state viewed from the player. It does not have to be physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between the surface area provided with the pressed surface and the surface area, if the area appears adjacent to the player, it is possible to make the area visible. It is possible to give the player the impression that the lower surface has spread. Therefore, such an area also corresponds to the "adjacent area" of the gaming machine A1.

Game machine A2:
It is gaming machine A1,
A visual recognition area reducing means for reducing the visual recognition area by switching at least a part of the adjacent area switched to the visible state with the progress of the game from the visible state to the invisible state; A game machine equipped with A2.

  In the gaming machine A2, at least a part of the adjacent area switched to the visible state is switched to the invisible state.

  This makes it possible to give the player an impression as if the pressed surface has become smaller because the adjacent area which has been seen so far is not visible. Also in such a case, it is possible to surprise the player and improve the interest of the game.

  When the adjacent area is switched from the visible state to the invisible state, various methods can be used similarly to the switching from the invisible state to the visible state. For example, a member may be used to cover up the adjacent area, or a device (for example, a liquid crystal panel) whose light transmittance changes in accordance with an electrical signal may be provided between the adjacent area and the player. By changing the transmittance to block the transmission of light, the visible state may be switched to the invisible state.

Game machine A3:
A gaming machine A1 or a gaming machine A2,
The gaming machine A3 wherein the visible area enlarging means is a means for switching from the invisible state to the visible state by moving a shielding member provided between the player and the adjacent area.

  In the gaming machine A3, the shielding member is provided between the player and the adjacent area. The adjacent area is hidden by the shielding member and becomes invisible. However, if the shielding member is moved, the adjacent area becomes visible.

  According to this configuration, since it is possible to switch from the invisible state to the visible state by the simple configuration of moving the shielding member, the device configuration of the gaming machine can be kept simple. As a result, it is possible to keep the manufacturing process of the gaming machine simple, which is preferable.

Game machine A4:
It is gaming machine A2,
The visible area enlarging means is a means for switching from the invisible state to the visible state by moving a shielding member provided between the player and the adjacent area,
The game machine A4, wherein the visible area reducing means is a means for switching the visible state to the invisible state by moving the shielding member between the player and the adjacent area.

  In the gaming machine A4, the shielding member is provided between the player and the adjacent area. The adjacent area is hidden by the shielding member and becomes invisible. However, if the shielding member is moved, the adjacent area becomes visible. Also, by moving the shielding member again between the player and the adjacent area, the shielding area is switched from the visible state to the invisible state.

  In this case, it is possible to easily switch between the visible state and the non-visible state of the adjacent region by the simple configuration of only moving the shielding member. As a result, the apparatus configuration of the gaming machine and the manufacturing process of the gaming machine can be kept simple, which is preferable.

Game machine A5:
A game machine A3 or a game machine A4,
And a translucent panel member formed in a plate shape extending in a direction intersecting the pressing direction of the pressing surface in a state of covering at least a part of the adjacent region;
The game machine A5, wherein the shielding member is a member that moves in a direction along the panel member from between the panel member and the adjacent region.

  In such a game machine A5, a translucent panel member covers at least a part of the adjacent area, and a shielding member is provided between the plate-like member and the adjacent area. When moving the shielding member, it is moved in the direction along the panel member.

  In this case, since the shielding member moves inside the panel member as seen from the player, it is possible to avoid the risk of injury caused by the player touching the shielding member when the shielding member moves. It becomes possible. In addition, if the panel member is formed of a translucent member, even if the adjacent region of the pressing member is covered with the panel member, the adjacent region can be visually recognized in the state in which the shielding member is moved. It is possible to enlarge the visible area. On the other hand, in the state where the shielding member is located between the panel member and the adjacent region, the adjacent region is hidden by the shielding member, so that the visible area can be reduced. This makes it possible to change the visible area of the pressing member by the shielding member, while making it possible to avoid the possibility of the player being injured by the shielding member. In addition, if the shielding member is moved in the direction along the panel member, it is not necessary to secure an excessive space for moving the shielding member, so that the device configuration of the gaming machine can be kept compact.

Game machine A6:
It is gaming machine A1,
A panel member formed in a plate shape extending in a direction intersecting with the pressing direction of the pressing member while covering at least a part of the adjacent region;
A light source provided on the side of the adjacent area with respect to the panel member, the light source emitting light to the adjacent area;
The panel member is a semi-transparent member that transmits a majority or more of light incident from the side of the adjacent region of the panel member and blocks transmission of a majority or more of light incident from the opposite side to the adjacent region. Formed
The game machine A6, wherein the visible area enlarging means is a means for transmitting light from the adjacent area through the panel member by irradiating light to the adjacent area using the light source to expand the visible area.

  In the gaming machine A6, the adjacent area is covered by the semi-transparent panel member. Although this panel member transmits more than half of the light incident from the side of the adjacent area, the light incident from the side opposite to the adjacent area (the player's side) blocks transmission of the majority or more. Therefore, since the transmission of the majority of the light incident from the player side is blocked by the panel member and can not reach the adjacent area, the adjacent area is not visible from the player side. Here, when light is irradiated to the adjacent area, light emitted from the adjacent area can be transmitted through the panel member, so that light from the adjacent area can be delivered to the player. As a result, the adjacent area can be viewed from the player, and as a result, the visible area of the pressing member can be enlarged.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to enlarge the visible area of the pressing member by a simple configuration in which the adjacent region is irradiated with light. As a result, it is possible to realize a gaming machine capable of attracting the interest of the player and improving the interest of the game while keeping the device configuration of the gaming machine simple. In addition, since the visible area can be returned to the original state only by stopping the light irradiation, it is possible to easily increase or decrease the visible area according to the progress of the game.

  In each of the gaming machines described above, the shape of the pressing member (the shape of the area including the "visible surface area" and the "adjacent area" of the gaming machine A1) that the player visually recognizes in the state where the adjacent area is visible And the shape of the pressing member (the shape of the “visible area” of the gaming machine A1) visually recognized by the player when the adjacent area is not visible may be substantially similar to each other. In this case, since the shapes of the pressing members visually recognized by the player in these two states are substantially similar, by switching between the two states, the impression as if the pressing members were deformed and enlarged can be given more strongly. It is possible. As a result, it is possible to surely give surprise to the player and to further enhance the interest of the game.

Game machine B1:
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface which can be pressed by the player on at least a part of the surface;
A panel member provided between the pressing member and the player in a state where the pressing surface is made of a translucent member having an exposed portion and the pressing surface is exposed from the exposed portion;
A shielding member provided between the panel member and at least a part of an adjacent region which is a surface region adjacent to the depressed surface of the depressed member and made of a light shielding member;
Shielding member moving means for moving the shielding member from between the panel member and the adjacent area with the progress of the game;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
A game machine B1 comprising

  In the gaming machine B1, a part (pressing surface) of the pressing member is exposed from the translucent panel member, and the player can press this part. Further, a shielding member made of a light shielding member is provided between the surface region (adjacent region) adjacent to the pressing surface and the panel member in the pressing member. In the gaming machine B1, as the game progresses, the shielding member is moved from between the adjacent area and the panel member.

  Although the panel member is formed of a translucent member, when the shielding member is positioned between the panel member and the adjacent region, the adjacent region can not be seen by the player. When the shielding member is moved from this state, the player can see an area adjacent to the pressing surface in addition to the pressing surface which has been seen so far. For this reason, it is possible to give the player an impression as if the pressing surface has spread. In this way, it is possible to give the player a surprise and attract the player's interest, so even if the pressing of the pressing member becomes familiar to the player, the player's interest is It becomes possible to push the pressing portion in the attracted state. As a result, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect triggered by the pressing of the pressing unit and to improve the interest of the game.

  Incidentally, in view of the fact that the pressing surface appears to the player as if it were spread, the adjacent region of the pressing member is adjacent to the surface region provided with the pressing surface in a state viewed from the player. It does not have to be physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between it and the pressing surface, it is as if the pressing surface has spread by making the region visible if it is an area that appears adjacent to the player when viewed from the player. It is possible to give the player an impression. Therefore, such an area also corresponds to the "adjacent area" of the gaming machine B1.

Game machine B2:
It is gaming machine B1,
A game machine B2 comprising shielding member insertion means for inserting the shielding member moved from between the panel member and the adjacent region between the panel member and the adjacent region as the game progresses.

  If the shielding member is reinserted between the panel member and the adjacent area, the adjacent area can be restored to the original state in which the adjacent area is hidden, from the state where the pressing surface looks as if it were spread. This makes it possible to make the pressed surface appear to spread or narrow as the game progresses, so it is possible to further attract the player's interest and further improve the interest of the game.

  It should be noted that the shield member may be moved in any case, but in the case where a gaming state advantageous to the player occurs (when it is determined that the advantageous gaming state occurs, the probability of occurrence is It is more preferable to move to a case where a predetermined probability is exceeded. Since the player tends to recall that a state advantageous to the player is generated due to the appearance that the pressing surface is spread, the player presses the pressing member while holding high expectation. This makes it possible to improve the effect of the pressing moment effect and to further enhance the interest of the game.

  Of course, contrary to this, the shielding member is moved when the advantageous gaming state for the player does not occur (when it is determined that the advantageous gaming state does not occur, or when the probability of occurrence falls below a predetermined probability) It is also possible to Alternatively, it may be determined at random whether to move or not to move regardless of whether a game state advantageous to the player is generated. Since it is possible to give a surprise to the player by making the pressing surface appear to spread (or narrow) regardless of the movement of the shielding member in any case, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

  The pressing member does not necessarily have to be integrally formed as a whole, and the members formed individually may be combined to form the pressing member. For example, the area provided with the pressing surface and the adjacent area may be formed on separate members, and the members may be combined to form the pressing member. Even in such a case, it is possible to attract the interest of the player and improve the interest of the game because the appearance of the pressing area does not change if the adjacent area becomes visible.

  In addition, the shape of the pressing member (the shape of the “adjacent area” of the gaming machine B1) seen by the player in a state where the shielding member is moved from between the panel member and the adjacent area, the panel member and the adjacent area The shape of the pressing member (the shape of the “pressed surface” of the gaming machine B1) visually recognized by the player in the state where the shielding member is positioned between the two may be substantially similar to each other. In this case, since the shapes of the pressing members visually recognized by the player in these two states are substantially similar, by switching between the two states, the impression as if the pressing members were deformed and enlarged can be given more strongly. It is possible. As a result, it is possible to surely give surprise to the player and to further enhance the interest of the game.

Game machine C1:
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface which can be pressed by the player on at least a part of the surface;
The pressing surface is provided between the pressing member and the player in a state where the pressing surface is exposed from the exposed portion, and transmits more than half of the light incident from the pressing member side and is incident from the player side A panel member formed of a semi-transparent member that blocks transmission of more than half of the incident light;
A light source provided on the side of the pressing member with respect to the panel member, the light source emitting light to an adjacent region which is a surface region adjacent to the pressing surface of the pressing member;
Light source control means for turning on or off the light source as the game progresses;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
A game machine C1 comprising: press trigger effect executing means for executing a press trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by the press of the pressing surface.

  In the gaming machine C1, the adjacent region of the pressing member is covered by the semi-transmissive panel member. Although this panel member transmits more than half of the light incident from the side of the adjacent area, the light incident from the side opposite to the adjacent area (the player's side) blocks transmission of the majority or more. Therefore, more than half of the light incident from the player side is blocked by the panel member and can not reach the adjacent area, and as a result, the adjacent area becomes invisible from the player side. Here, when light is irradiated to the adjacent area, light from the adjacent area can be transmitted through the panel member, so that light from the adjacent area can be delivered to the player and the player can visually recognize the adjacent area.

  In this way, the player can see the area adjacent to the pressed surface in addition to the previously displayed pressed surface, giving the player an impression as if the pressed surface were spread. Is possible. As a result, the player can be given a surprise to attract the player's interest, so even if the gaming machine pushing the pressing member becomes familiar to the player, the player's interest is In the attracted state, the player can operate the pressing unit. As a result, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect triggered by the pressing of the pressing unit and to improve the interest of the game.

  In addition, it is possible to return to a state where the adjacent area can not be seen if the light irradiation is stopped, so by turning on or off the light source, it appears that the pressed surface spreads or narrows as the game progresses. It also becomes possible to realize a gaming machine. As a result, it is possible to attract the player's interest more strongly and to further enhance the interest of the game. In addition, since the simple configuration may be sufficient to irradiate the adjacent area with light, it is possible to keep the device configuration of the gaming machine simple, which is preferable.

  The light source may be turned on to make the pressed surface appear to be spread out in any case, but when an advantageous gaming state occurs for the player (an advantageous gaming state may occur. It is more preferable if the determination is made or if the probability of occurrence exceeds the predetermined probability. That is, since the player has a tendency to associate the occurrence of a state advantageous to the player due to the appearance that the pressing surface is spread, the player presses the pressing member while holding high expectation. This makes it possible to improve the effect of the pressing moment effect and to further enhance the interest of the game.

  Of course, contrary to this, the light source is turned on when the advantageous gaming state for the player does not occur (when it is determined that the advantageous gaming state does not occur, or when the probability of occurrence falls below a predetermined probability) May be Alternatively, it may be randomly determined whether or not to be lit regardless of whether or not a game state advantageous to the player is generated. Regardless of when the light source is turned on, the player can be surprised by the appearance that the pressed surface is spread, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

  The pressing member does not necessarily have to be integrally formed as a whole, and the members formed individually may be combined to form the pressing member. For example, the area provided with the pressing surface and the adjacent area may be formed on separate members, and the members may be combined to form the pressing member. Even in such a case, it is possible to attract the interest of the player and improve the interest of the game because the appearance of the pressing area does not change if the adjacent area becomes visible.

  Incidentally, in view of the fact that the pressing surface appears to the player as if it were spread, the adjacent region of the pressing member is adjacent to the surface region provided with the pressing surface in a state viewed from the player. It does not have to be physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between it and the pressing surface, it is as if the pressing surface has spread by making the region visible if it is an area that appears adjacent to the player when viewed from the player. It is possible to give the player an impression. Therefore, such a region also corresponds to the "adjacent region" of the gaming machine C1.

  Further, as described in the above-described embodiment, the player is surprised not only by enlarging the area of the pressing member viewed from the player but also changing the shape of the pressing member viewed from the player. It is possible. Therefore, the invention embodied in the above-described embodiment can be regarded as a gaming machine of the following aspect.

Game machine D1:
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface which can be pressed by the player on at least a part of the surface;
A panel member provided between the pressing member and the player in a state where the pressing surface is made of a translucent member having an exposed portion and the pressing surface is exposed from the exposed portion;
A light shielding member provided displaceably in a direction intersecting the pressing direction of the pressing surface between at least a part of the adjacent region which is a surface region adjacent to the pressing surface of the pressing member and the panel member A shielding member consisting of
Shielding member position control means for controlling the position of the shielding member as the game progresses;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
A game machine D1 comprising:

  In the gaming machine D1, a part (pressing surface) of the pressing member is exposed from the translucent panel member, and the player can press this part. Further, among the pressing members, a shielding member having a light shielding property is provided so as to be displaceable between a surface region (adjacent region) adjacent to the pressing surface and the panel member. In the gaming machine D1, as the game progresses, the position of the shielding member is controlled.

  Although the panel member is formed of a translucent member, when the shielding member is positioned between the panel member and the adjacent region, a portion of the adjacent region hidden by the shielding member becomes invisible to the player. Therefore, by moving the shielding member, it is possible to change the shape of the area visible to the player. By doing this, it appears to the player as if the shape of the pressed surface has changed, so it is possible to surprise the player and attract the player's interest. As a result, even when the pressing of the pressing member has become familiar to the player, it is possible to press the pressing part in a state where the player's interest is attracted. As a result, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect triggered by the pressing of the pressing unit and to improve the interest of the game.

  Incidentally, in view of the fact that the shape of the pressed surface appears to the player as if it has changed, the area adjacent to the pressing member is seen from the player with respect to the surface region provided with the pressed surface. It is only necessary to be adjacent, not necessarily physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between it and the pressed surface, the shape of the pressed surface changes if the region is hidden by the shielding member if it is an area that appears adjacent to the player It is possible to give the player an impression like a vibes. Therefore, such a region also corresponds to the "adjacent region" of the gaming machine D1.

Game machine E1:
A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface which can be pressed by the player on at least a part of the surface;
A panel member provided between the pressing member and the player in a state where the pressing surface is made of a translucent member having an exposed portion and the pressing surface is exposed from the exposed portion;
A plurality of plates provided so as to be insertable between the panel member and an adjacent area, which is a surface area adjacent to the pressed surface, of the pressing member and having different shapes of outlines on the side of the pressed surface in the inserted state. Members,
A plate-shaped member for determining a plate-shaped member to be inserted between the adjacent area and the panel member from among the plurality of plate-shaped members as the game progresses, and for inserting the determined plate-shaped member Insertion means,
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
A game machine E1 comprising

  In the gaming machine E1, a part (pressing surface) of the pressing member is exposed from the translucent panel member, and the player can press this part. Further, a plurality of plate-like members are provided so as to be insertable between the surface area (adjacent area) adjacent to the pressing surface and the panel member. The plurality of plate-like members have different contours toward the pressing surface when inserted between the adjacent region and the panel member. In the gaming machine E1, as the game progresses, among these plate-like members, the plate-like member to be inserted between the adjacent area and the panel member is determined.

  Although the panel member is formed of a translucent member, when the plate-like member is located between the panel member and the adjacent region, the adjacent region is hidden by the plate-like member. Therefore, when viewed from the player, it looks as if the shape of the pressed surface has changed. At this time, the shape seen by the player is a shape corresponding to the outline shape of the pressed surface side of the plate-like member, and therefore, a plurality of plate-like members having different shapes on the pressed surface side are provided. By selecting, it becomes possible to control the shape seen from the player. Further, by switching the plate member to be used, it is possible to easily switch the shape viewed from the player. In this way, it is possible to give a surprise to the player and attract the player's interest, and as a result, even if the pressing of the pressing member has become familiar to the player, the player It is possible to cause the pressing unit to be pressed in a state of attracting interest. As a result, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect triggered by the pressing of the pressing unit and improve the interest of the game.

  Incidentally, in view of the fact that the shape of the pressed surface appears to the player as if it has changed, the area adjacent to the pressing member is seen from the player with respect to the surface region provided with the pressed surface. It is only necessary to be adjacent, not necessarily physically adjacent. For example, even if there is a depression, a step or a joint between it and the pressed surface, the shape of the pressed surface is changed if the area is covered with a plate member if it is an area that appears adjacent to the player It is possible to give the player an impression like a vibes. Therefore, such an area also corresponds to the "adjacent area" of the gaming machine E1.

  Further, the plate-like member does not have to be a member capable of completely shielding light, and may be, for example, a translucent member or a transparent member having a tint. Even in such a case, the portion covered by the plate-like member changes in color and the like when viewed from the player, so it is possible to give an impression as if the shape of the outline has changed. is there. Of course, if a light blocking member is used, it is possible to more clearly change the shape of the contour, which is preferable.

  The following invention is also embodied in the embodiment described above.

Game machine F1:
In any one of the game machines A1 to A6, the game machines B1 to B2, the game machine C1, the game machine D1, and the game machine E1, the game machine F1 is a pachinko game machine.

  Here, as a pachinko gaming machine, for example, it is possible to adopt a pachinko gaming machine having the following configuration. That is, operation means (for example, an operation handle) operated by the player, game ball emission means for emitting game balls based on the operation of the operation means, and a ball passage for guiding the fired game balls to a predetermined game area; A gaming machine comprising: each gaming component arranged in a gaming area, and providing a bonus to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion of each gaming component.

Game machine F2:
In any one of the game machines A1 to A6, the game machines B1 to B2, the game machine C, the game machine D, and the game machine E1, the game machine is a slot machine.

  Here, as a slot machine, for example, a slot machine having the following configuration can be adopted. That is, a variable display means is provided for dynamically displaying an identification information sequence consisting of a plurality of identification information and then determining and displaying the identification information, and identification information resulting from the operation of the starting operation means (for example, operation lever or operation handle) The dynamic display of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses A gaming machine comprising: special game state generation means for generating a special game state advantageous to a player, as a prerequisite that the information is specific identification information. In addition, as a game medium of such a game machine, a coin, a medal, etc. are mentioned as a representative example.

Game machine F3:
In any one of the game machines A1 to A6, the game machines B1 to B2, the game machine C1, the game machine D1 and the game machine E1, the game machine is a combination of a pachinko game machine and a slot machine.

  Here, as a gaming machine in which a pachinko gaming machine and a slot machine are merged, it is possible to adopt, for example, a gaming machine having the following configuration. That is, a variable display means is provided for dynamically displaying an identification information sequence consisting of a plurality of identification information and then determining and displaying the identification information, and identification information resulting from the operation of the starting operation means (for example, operation lever or operation handle) The dynamic display of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses It is equipped with special gaming state generating means for generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player, as a requirement that the information is specific identification information, use a ball as a game medium, and start dynamic display of the identification information In this case, a predetermined number of balls are required, and it is possible to employ a gaming machine configured so that many balls are paid out when the special gaming state occurs.

10 ... ball and ball game machine, 11 ... firing handle, 12 ... board portion,
13 top plate 14 14 speaker 15 front panel
16 ... lower plate, 17 ... key part, 20 ... game board,
21 Rails 22 Nails 23 Windmills
24 ... Through operation port, 25a ... 1st operation port, 25b ... 2nd operation port,
26 ... small winning opening, 28 ... gaming area, 30 ... effect display device,
35 ... directing role, 41 ... electric role, 50 ... out port,
60 large entrance ball opening 70 segmented display device
72: left display section 74: central display section 76: right display section
80 ... Segment display for through, 100 ... Main control unit,
102 ... MPU 102, 110 ... ROM, 140 ... RAM,
160 ... latest pending storage area, 200 ... sub control unit, 240 ... power supply unit,
300 ... display control device, 350 ... presentation role thing drive device,
400 ... game ball tank, 410 ... payout control device, 500 ... launch control device,
600 ... effect button 602 ... button member, 602s ... exposed portion,
604 ... electric switch, 610 ... top panel, 610 t ... transparent part,
612 ... bottom panel, 620 ... shielding plate, 700 ... presentation button,
720 ... shielding board, 820 ... shielding board, 1600 ... presentation button,
1602 ... button member, 1602s ... exposed portion, 2600 ... presentation button,
3622 ... shielding plate, 5600 ... effect button, 5602 ... button member,
5602s: exposed part, 5604: electric switch, 5610: top panel 5610h, semi-translucent part, LED array 5640, 6600: presentation button,
6602 ... button member, 6602s ... exposed portion, LED array 6640,
7600 ... production button, 7610 ... top panel, 7610 h ... semi-translucent part,
7610t: transparent part, 8600, effect button, 8602, button member,
8620 ... Shielding board

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs various effects as the game progresses,
A pressing member provided with a pressing surface on which the player can press at least a part of the surface area visible to the player playing the game;
Pressing detection means for detecting pressing of the pressing surface;
Pressing trigger effect executing means for executing pressing trigger effect which is one of the effects of the various effects triggered by pressing of the pressing surface;
By switching the adjacent area, which is a surface area adjacent to the surface area provided with the pressed surface, of the pressing member with the progress of the game from the invisible state to the visible state of the player, Visual area enlarging means for enlarging the visual area which is the area of the pressing member seen from the player;
A panel member formed in a plate shape extending in a direction intersecting with the pressing direction of the pressing member while covering at least a part of the adjacent region;
And a light source provided on the side of the adjacent area with respect to the panel member and irradiating the adjacent area with light.
The panel member is a semi-transparent member that transmits a majority or more of light incident from the side of the adjacent region of the panel member and blocks transmission of a majority or more of light incident from the opposite side to the adjacent region. Formed
The gaming machine, wherein the visible area enlarging means is a means for transmitting light from the adjacent area through the panel member by irradiating light to the adjacent area using the light source, thereby enlarging the visible area.