JP2022063310A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can enhance an attention degree to a game.

SOLUTION: A pachinko machine 10 has a variable winning unit 151 into which a game ball falling down in a game area can enter. A game ball entering the variable winning unit 151 is discharged through a discharge passage. When a jackpot result is obtained in a winning or losing lottery, an entry into the variable winning unit 151 is allowed. In the case of the jackpot result, the first number of pieces may be stored in the discharge passage from the variable winning unit 151, or the second number of pieces different from the first number of pieces may be stored in the discharge passage from the variable winning unit 151.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

As a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a gaming machine provided with a variable winning device as a ball entry portion provided in a gaming area is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-000410

Here, in a gaming machine, a device for increasing the degree of attention to a game is desired.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-exemplified circumstances and the like, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of increasing the degree of attention to gaming.

The invention according to claim 1 is
A predetermined entry section where the game ball can enter, which is provided in the game area where the game ball flows down,
A discharge passage for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage.
A first storage means capable of storing a first number of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion in the discharge passage during a predetermined period.
A second storage means capable of storing a second number of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion in the predetermined period in the discharge passage, which is different from the first number.
It is characterized by having.

According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the degree of attention to the game.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the main composition of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. It is a perspective view which shows the main composition of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. It is a front view which shows the structure of a game board. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the variable winning unit. It is a breaking view which shows the structure of the variable winning unit. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the operation of a variable winning unit. It is a perspective view which looked at the variable winning unit from the back side. It is sectional drawing of the variable winning unit. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a pachinko machine. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the display contents on the display screen of a symbol display device. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the display contents on the display screen of a symbol display device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the contents of various counters used for a winning or failing lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing executed by the MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the normal process which is executed in MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the game time control process. It is a flowchart which shows the game state transition process. It is a flowchart which shows the opening and closing process of a big prize opening. It is a figure for demonstrating the number of balls entering the big prize opening in a round. It is a flowchart which shows the ball jam determination process which is executed by MPU of a main control device. In the second embodiment, it is a flowchart which shows the setting process of a closing time. It is a figure for demonstrating the number of balls entering the big prize opening in each round. It is a flowchart which shows the effect processing for opening / closing execution mode executed by MPU of an effect control device. It is a front view which shows the structure of the game board in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the big prize opening opening process. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship of each variable winning unit in an open / close execution mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship of each variable winning unit in the modification of 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the pass / fail table in 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the distribution table. It is a flowchart which shows the start processing of a round display. It is a flowchart which shows the opening and closing process of a big prize opening. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process of a closing time. It is a figure to explain the waiting time between rounds. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between the duration of a round and the length of a waiting time. It is a figure for demonstrating the number of balls entering the big prize opening in each round. In the fifth embodiment, (a) is a diagram showing the configuration of the game board, and (b) is a flowchart showing the discharge drive process executed by the MPU of the main control device. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the discharge passage from the big prize opening in the sixth embodiment. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the discharge passage from the big prize opening and the like in 7th Embodiment. In the eighth embodiment, (a) is a diagram showing the configuration of a game board, and (b) is a schematic diagram for explaining a discharge passage. In the ninth embodiment, (a) and (b) are schematic views for explaining a discharge passage, and (c) is a schematic diagram for explaining an application example to a variable winning unit. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the discharge passage from the big winning opening in tenth embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the pass / fail table. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the distribution table. (A) is a flowchart showing the transition process to the high probability mode, and (b) is a flowchart showing the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process of a closing time. It is a flowchart which shows the processing for distribution drive. It is a timing chart for explaining the discharge destination of a game ball. It is a flowchart which shows the setting process of the closing time in eleventh embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the distribution table in the twelfth embodiment. It is a timing chart for explaining the discharge destination of the game ball in the thirteenth embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a kind of gaming machine, will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the main configurations of the pachinko machine 10 in an expanded manner. Note that, in FIG. 2, for convenience, the configuration in the gaming area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted.

The pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 that forms the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main body 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11 in the forward direction. The gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame 13, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 arranged behind the inner frame 13.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main body 12 is rotatably supported by the outer frame 11 with one of the left and right sides as the support side. Further, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame 13, and the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported with one of the left and right side portions as the support side. Further, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported with one of the left and right side portions as the support side.

The gaming machine main body 12 is provided with a locking device 16 at the rotating tip portion thereof, and has a function of locking the gaming machine main body 12 with respect to the outer frame 11 so as not to be openable. It has a function of locking the front door frame 14 so that it cannot be opened with respect to the inner frame. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

The front door frame 14 provided so as to cover the entire front surface side of the inner frame 13 is formed with a window portion 61 so that almost the entire area of the game area, which will be described later, can be visually recognized from the front. The window portion 61 has a substantially elliptical shape, and the window panel 62 is fitted therein. The window panel 62 is formed colorless and transparent by glass, but is not limited to this, and may be formed colorless and transparent by synthetic resin.

Light emitting means such as various lamp portions are provided around the window portion 61. A display light emitting unit 63 is provided above the window unit 61 as a part of the various lamp units. Further, on both the left and right sides of the display light emitting unit 63, speaker units 64 for outputting sound effects and the like according to the game situation are provided.

Below the window portion 61 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 65 and a lower bulging portion 66 bulging toward the front side are arranged side by side. An upper plate 71 opened upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 65, and a lower plate 72 also opened upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 66. The upper plate 71 has a function of temporarily storing the game balls paid out from the payout device 96 provided in the back pack unit 15 and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism 53 side while arranging them in a row. Further, the lower plate 72 has a function of storing the surplus game balls in the upper plate 71.

A firing handle 60 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 72 in the front door frame 14. By operating the firing handle 60, the game ball is launched from the game ball launching mechanism 53 provided below the game area PE in the inner frame 13 toward the game area PE. In this case, by changing the rotation operation amount of the firing handle 60, the firing intensity of the gaming ball launched toward the gaming area PE, that is, the firing momentum is changed.

The game area PE is formed on the game board 24 mounted on the inner frame 13. Hereinafter, the configuration of the game board 24 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view of the game board 24.

An inner rail portion 51 and an outer rail portion 52 are attached to the surface of the game board 24, and the game area PE is formed so as to be partitioned by the inner rail portion 51 and the outer rail portion 52. Further, the inner rail portion 51 and the outer rail portion 52 form a guide rail for the game ball to the game area PE, and the game ball launched from the game ball launch mechanism 53 by the player rotating the launch handle 60. Is guided to the upper part of the game area PE by the guide rail.

The guide rail is formed so that its exit portion faces the upper center of the game area PE on one side of the game area PE. Therefore, as the amount of rotation of the firing handle 60 by the player increases, the arrival position of the game ball in the upper part of the game area PE is from the side of the side where the exit portion of the guide rail is formed to the side opposite to it. It shifts to the side of the department. The outlet portion of the guide rail is provided on the left side portion of the game area PE.

In the range defined as the game area PE in the game board 24, a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction are formed by being subjected to router processing. Each opening has a general winning opening 31, an upper operating opening (first entry section) 33, a lower operating opening (second entry section) 34, a variable winning unit 151, a through gate 35, a variable display unit 36, and a main display. A unit 43, a display unit 44 for accessories, and the like are provided, respectively.

When a ball enters the general winning opening 31, the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34, the through gate 35, and the variable winning unit 151, the detection sensors provided corresponding to each (general winning opening sensor 31a, It is detected by the upper working opening winning sensor 33a, the lower working opening winning sensor 34c, the through winning sensor 35a, and the large winning opening winning sensor 32a). Then, when a prize is generated in the general winning opening 31, the upper operating opening 33, the lower operating opening 34, and the variable winning unit 151, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out. In this case, when a ball enters the upper operating port 33, three prize balls are paid out, and when a ball enters the lower operating port 34, two prize balls are paid out. When executed and a ball is entered into the general winning opening 31, 10 prize balls are paid out, and when a ball is entered into the variable winning unit 151, 15 prize balls are paid out. Will be executed. However, the number of these prize balls is arbitrary, and for example, the number of prize balls related to the lower operating port 34 may be larger than the number of prize balls related to the upper operating port 33, or the number of prize balls of both operating ports 33 and 34 may be larger. The number may be the same. Further, the number of prize balls related to the variable winning unit 151 may be smaller than the number of prize balls related to the operating openings 33 and 34, or may be the same as the number of prize balls of both operating ports 33 and 34. However, in order to maintain the advantage of winning the variable winning unit 151, it is preferable that the number of prize balls related to the variable winning unit 151 is larger than the number of prize balls related to the operating openings 33 and 34. In addition, the number of prize balls related to the general winning opening 31 may be the same as or larger than the number of prize balls related to the variable winning unit 151. As will be described later, the general winning opening 31 is a winning section that has nothing to do with the game in which the big hit lottery, which is the core of the game, or the game during the big hit is performed. Can be said to play an auxiliary role in playing this core game. In that respect, the larger the number of prize balls related to the general winning opening 31 (or the more the composition is such that winning the general winning opening 31 is more likely to occur), the less the number of balls held in playing a game or the like for performing a big hit lottery. It is possible to reduce the number or increase the total number of prize balls that can be obtained.

In addition, an out opening 37 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game board 24, and a game ball that has not entered various winning openings or the like is discharged from the game area through the out opening 37. Further, a large number of nails 38 are planted on the game board 24 in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball, and various members (accessories) such as a windmill are arranged.

Here, the entry ball means that the game ball passes through a predetermined opening, and is not only discharged from the game area after passing through the opening, but also discharged from the game area after passing through the opening. It also includes a mode in which the flow of the gaming area is continued without being carried out. However, in the following description, in order to clearly distinguish it from the entry of the game ball into the out opening 37, the general winning opening 31, the upper operating opening 33, the lower operating opening 34, the through gate 35, or the variable winning unit 151 is provided. The entry of a game ball is also referred to as a prize.

The variable display unit 36 is provided so as to include the central portion of the game area PE. Since the peripheral edge of the variable display unit 36 protrudes in front of the pachinko machine 10 from the surface of the game board 24, the area where the game ball can flow down is divided into a plurality of areas.

Specifically, the upper region PE1 which is a region above the predetermined height position of the variable display unit 36 in the game region PE, and the upper region PE1 which is continuously below the variable display unit 36 and the variable display unit 36. The left region PE2, which is the left region, the right region PE3, which is a region to the right of the variable display unit 36 and is continuous below the upper region PE1, and the left region PE2 and the right region PE3, respectively. On the other hand, it is continuously divided into a lower region PE4 which is a region below the variable display unit 36 below the variable display unit 36.

When the player performs the rotation operation of the launch handle 60 with the rotation operation amount in the first range which is equal to or more than the predetermined rotation amount and less than the reference rotation amount as the first launch operation, the player performs the lateral rotation operation in the upper region PE1. The game ball begins to flow down to the left of the center position. In this case, the game ball flows down in the order of upper region PE1 → left side region PE2 → lower region PE4. On the other hand, as the second launch operation, the player performs a rotation operation of the launch handle 60 with a rotation operation amount in the second range that is equal to or greater than the reference rotation amount, so that the player performs a rotation operation of the launch handle 60 to the right of the lateral center position in the upper region PE1. The game ball begins to flow down. In this case, the game ball flows down in the order of the upper region PE1 → the right region PE3 → the lower region PE4. That is, by adjusting the amount of rotation of the firing handle 60, the player can play the game so that the game ball flows down the left side region PE2 of the left side region PE2 and the right side region PE3, and the right side region PE3. The game can be played so that the game ball flows down.

The reference rotation amount is a rotation amount at which the ratio of the game ball flowing down the left side region PE2 and the ratio of the game ball flowing down the right side region PE3 are the same, and the rotation operation in the first range. In terms of the amount, the ratio of the game ball flowing down the left side region PE2 is high, and in the rotation operation amount of the second range, the ratio of the game ball flowing down the right side region PE3 is high. Therefore, if the rotation operation amount in the first range is close to the reference rotation amount, the game ball may flow down the right region PE3, and the rotation operation amount in the second range is close to the reference rotation amount. In the rotation operation amount, the game ball may flow down the left side region PE2.

The upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 are unitized as an operating port device and installed on the game board 24. Both the upper working port 33 and the lower working port 34 are opened upward. Further, both the operating ports 33 and 34 are arranged in the vertical direction so that the upper operating port 33 faces upward. The lower operating port 34 is provided with an electric accessory 34a as a guide piece (support piece) composed of a pair of left and right movable pieces. In the closed state (non-supported state or non-guided state) of the electric accessory 34a, the game ball cannot win the lower operating port 34, and the electric accessory 34a is opened (supported state or guided state), so that the lower operating port It is possible to win a prize in 34.

The upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 are installed in the lower region PE4 of the game board 24. In this case, the upper actuating port 33 is arranged directly below the stage 36a formed in the variable display unit 36, and the game flows into the stage 36a through the guide passage (not shown) formed in the variable display unit 36. The game ball, which is a ball and is discharged from the center of the stage 36a to the outside of the variable display unit 36, can easily win a prize in the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34.

By the way, the entrance portion of the guidance passage that enables the guidance of the game ball to the stage 36a is located at the position corresponding to the boundary portion between the upper region PE1 and the left region PE2 in the variable display unit 36 (the first reserved light emitting portion in FIG. 4). It is formed at the position above 45) and is not formed anywhere else.

When the launch handle 60 is operated so that the game ball flows down the left side region PE2 and the right side region PE3 because the upper working port 33 and the lower working port 34 are provided in the lower region PE4 as described above. In any case where the firing handle 60 is operated so that the game ball flows down, the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 can be won. However, since the entrance portion of the guide passage to the stage 36a is provided for the left side region PE2 and not for the right side region PE3, the person who flows down the left side region PE2 flows down the right side region PE3. As compared with the case, winning a prize is more likely to occur in the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34. Further, regarding the arrangement of the game parts and the nails 38 in the left side region PE2 and the right side region PE3, the person who flows down the left side region PE2 wins a prize in the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 as compared with the case where the right side area PE3 flows down. It is set to be easy to occur.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration may be such that only the game ball flowing down the left side region PE2 can win a prize in the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34.

A large winning opening 32 is formed in the variable winning unit (variable winning means or special winning means) 151, and a guiding means for receiving the game ball flowing down the gaming area PE and guiding the game ball to the large winning opening 32. The guidance mechanism 161 is provided. The guidance mechanism 161 has a guidance member 162 for the large winning opening 32. The guiding member 162 has a guiding state (accepting state or open state) for guiding the game ball to the large winning opening 32 and a non-inducing state (non-accepting state or closed state) in which the game ball is not guided or difficult to be guided to the large winning opening 32. It is possible to switch to (state). Further, the guide member 162 is connected to the variable winning drive unit (specifically, the solenoid) 181. In the normal state, the guide member 162 is maintained in the non-guided state, and the transition to the open / close execution mode is won in the internal lottery. In some cases, it can be switched to the induction state. The variable winning unit 151 will be described in detail later.

Here, the open / close execution mode is a mode that shifts to the case where a big hit is won in the internal lottery. The open / close execution mode will be described in detail later. As a guiding mode of the guiding member 162, the guiding member 162 is repeatedly guided with a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) elapsed or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings as one round and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. There is an aspect to be done.

The variable winning unit 151 is installed in the right area PE3 of the game board 24. As a result, it is possible to win the variable winning unit 151 only when the firing handle 60 is operated so that the game ball flows down the right side region PE3. Then, the game ball flowing down the right region PE3 can win the large winning opening 32 if the guiding member 162 of the variable winning unit 151 is in the guided state, and the large winning opening 32 if the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state. It is discharged to the outside of the game area PE through the out port 37 without winning a prize.

The main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are provided on the decorative member 39 arranged along the outer edge on the lower side of the game area PE. The decorative member 39 extends from the surface of the gaming board 24 to the front of the pachinko machine 10. More specifically, the front surface of the decorative member 39 faces the window panel 62 provided on the front door frame 14 in order to make the gaming area PE visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10, and further, the window panel 62. The distance between them is narrower than one game ball. This prevents the game ball from falling in front of the front surface of the decorative member 39.

The main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are provided so as to be exposed from the front surface of the decorative member 39. That is, the main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 can be visually recognized from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the window panel 62 of the front door frame 14, and the game ball can be seen in front of both the display units 43 and 44. It is prevented from falling. In addition, on the upper surface of the decorative member 39, a part of the above-mentioned general winning openings 31 is installed in a state of being opened upward.

The main display unit 43 has a round display unit RS for clearly indicating the number of rounds in the open / close execution mode when the open / close execution mode is set (or the open / close execution mode is set) as a result of the internal lottery. The first result display unit AS for clearly indicating the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the operating port 33, and the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the lower operating port 34. The second result display unit BS of the above is set.

The round display unit RS starts displaying the number of rounds at the start of the open / close execution mode, and ends the display at the end of the open / close execution mode.

In the first result display unit AS, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the upper operating port 33, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 is performed. The result is clearly indicated by the display. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the first result display unit AS and is displayed in a variable manner. After is stopped, the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode.

In the second result display unit BS, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the lower operating port 34, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the lower operating port 34 is performed. The result is clearly indicated by the display. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the lower operating port 34 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the second result display unit BS and is displayed in a variable manner. After is stopped, the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode.

Here, based on the winning of any of the operating ports 33 and 34, the variation display is started on the corresponding result display units AS and BS, the predetermined stop result is displayed, and the variation display is stopped. It corresponds to one game. However, one game round is not limited to the above content, and for example, a single result display unit is provided, and even if a prize is awarded to any of the actuation ports 33 and 34, the single result display unit is provided. In the configuration in which the variation display is performed in the result display unit, the variation display is started in the single result display unit, and the game is played until the variation display is stopped while the predetermined stop result is displayed. It will be once.

The accessory display unit 44 is a display unit for clearly showing the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 35. In this case, the accessory display unit 44 performs a variable display of the pattern triggered by winning a prize in the through gate 35, and as a result of stopping the variable display, an internal lottery performed based on the winning in the through gate 35 is performed. The result of is specified by the display. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the through gate 35 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric service open state, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the accessory display unit 44 and is displayed in a variable manner. After it is stopped, it shifts to the electric service open state. In the electric service open state, the electric accessory 34a provided in the lower actuating port 34 is in the open state in a predetermined manner.

The main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are composed of a segment display device having a plurality of segments, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other display devices such as a liquid crystal display device may be used. May be good.

The variable display unit 36 is provided with a symbol display device 41 for variable display (or variable display or switching display) of a symbol which is a kind of symbol. Further, in the variable display unit 36, a center frame 42 is arranged so as to surround the symbol display device 41. The upper portion of the center frame 42 extends forward of the pachinko machine 10. As a result, the game ball is prevented from falling in front of the display screen of the symbol display device 41, and the inconvenience that the visibility of the display screen is not deteriorated due to the fall of the game ball does not occur. ..

The symbol display device 41 is configured as a liquid crystal display device provided with a liquid crystal display, and the display content is controlled by a display control device described later. The symbol display device 41 is not limited to the liquid crystal display device, and may be another display device such as a plasma display device, an organic EL display device, or a CRT.

On the symbol display device 41, for example, symbols are displayed side by side in the upper, middle, and lower directions, and these symbols are variably displayed so as to be scrolled in the left-right direction. In this case, the variation display in the symbol display device 41 is started based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. That is, when the variable display is performed on the main display unit 43, the variable display is performed on the symbol display device 41 accordingly. Then, for example, in the game round in which the guide member 162 of the variable winning unit 151 shifts to the open / close execution mode in which the guide member 162 of the variable winning unit 151 is in the guided state as the open / close execution mode, a predetermined combination is set on the effective line preset in the symbol display device 41. The symbol is stopped and displayed.

A first reserved light emitting unit 45 corresponding to the first result display unit AS and the symbol display device 41 is provided on the upper left portion on the front surface side of the center frame 42. The number of game balls that have won a prize in the upper operating port 33 is reserved up to four, and the reserved number is displayed by lighting the first reserved light emitting unit 45. Further, in the upper right portion on the front side of the center frame 42, a second reserved light emitting unit 46 corresponding to the second result display unit BS and the symbol display device 41 is provided. The number of game balls that have won a prize in the lower operating port 34 is reserved up to four, and the reserved number is displayed by lighting the second reserved light emitting unit 46. As described above, since the upper part of the center frame 42 extends to the front of the pachinko machine 10, the visibility of the first reserved light emitting unit 45 and the second reserved light emitting unit 46 is not hindered by the falling of the gaming ball. ing.

At the lower part of the center frame 42, a third reserved light emitting unit 47 corresponding to the accessory display unit 44 is provided. The number of times the game ball has passed through the through gate 35 is held up to four times, and the number of holdings is displayed by lighting the third holding light emitting unit 47. It should be noted that each of the reserved light emitting units 45 to 47 may be configured to be displayed by a part of the symbol display device 41.

The variable winning unit 151 shifts to the open / close execution mode in which the guiding member 162 is in the guided state by winning a big hit or the like by a winning / losing lottery based on the entry of the game ball into any of the operating openings 33 and 34. It is possible to enter a game ball into the variable winning unit 151. When a game ball enters the variable winning unit 151, it is detected by the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening, and the winning ball is paid out.

Next, the configuration of the back side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3, a main control device 81 and an effect control device 82 are mounted on the back surface of the inner frame 13 (specifically, the game board 24).

The main control device 81 includes a main control board having a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power failure monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a substrate box 83 made of the above. The board box 83 includes a box base (front case body) having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are inseparably connected by a box coupling portion 85 as a separation preventing means (or a coupling means), whereby the substrate box 83 is sealed. Since they are inseparably connected by the box coupling portions 85, the substrate box 83 needs to be destroyed or partially cut when the internal space of the substrate box 83 is opened. A plurality of box coupling portions 85 are provided on the long side portions of the substrate box 83, and at least one of them is used to perform the coupling processing.

Any configuration can be applied to the box joint portion 85 as long as the box base and the box cover cannot be opened, but by inserting a locking claw into the elongated hole constituting the box joint portion 85, the box base can be connected to the box base. It is designed so that it cannot be opened with the box cover. The joining process by the box joining portion 85 prevents unauthorized opening after the joining, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the illegal opening is performed. Even after opening, it is possible to perform the opening process again. That is, the coupling process is performed by inserting the locking claw into at least one elongated hole among the plurality of box coupling portions 85. When the board box 83 is opened, such as when a defect occurs in the housed main control board or when the main control board is inspected, the box coupling portion 85 into which the locking claw is inserted and the other box coupling portion 85 are used. Cut the connecting part of the box and the connecting part with the box body. As a result, the box base of the board box 83 and the box cover are separated, and the internal main control board can be taken out. After that, when the coupling process is performed again, the locking claw is inserted into the elongated hole of the other box coupling portion 85. If the history of opening the board box 83 is left in the board box 83, it is possible to easily discover that the board box 83 has been opened illegally by looking at the board box 83.

A plurality of bonding pieces 86 are provided on one short side of the board box 83 so as to project to the side thereof. These coupling pieces 86 have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of coupled pieces 87 formed on the mounting base of the main control device 81, and the coupling piece 86 and the coupling piece 87 form a board box 83 and a mounting base. The binding process is performed between.

As a trace means for detecting the unauthorized opening of the board box 83, a sealing sticker may be attached so as to straddle the boundary between the box base and the box cover. In this case, when the seal sticker is peeled off from the affixed portion, the adhesive layer of the seal sticker remains on the substrate box 83 side, and a trace thereof remains. Further, the seal seal is provided with an IC tag that transmits a response wave containing identification information to a ring wave of a predetermined frequency, and when the seal seal is removed, the antenna of the IC tag is cut off and the response is described above. It may be configured so that the transmission of waves is impossible.

The effect control device 82 includes an effect control board that controls voice, lamp display, and a display control device (not shown) according to instructions from the main control device 81, and the effect control board is a board box made of a transparent resin material or the like. It is housed in 84 and configured.

As shown in FIG. 3, the back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 91, and a payout mechanism unit 92 and a control device collective unit 93 are attached to the back pack 91. The back pack 91 is made of a transparent synthetic resin, and has a protective cover portion 94 that protrudes rearward and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape so as to cover the main control device 81, the effect control device 82, and the like from the rear. ing.

The payout mechanism unit 92 is arranged so as to bypass the protective cover unit 94, and is a tank 95 in which game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game field are sequentially replenished, and a game stored in the tank 95. It is equipped with a payout device 96 for paying out balls. The game ball paid out from the payout device 96 is discharged to the upper plate 71 or the lower plate 72 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 96. Further, the payout mechanism unit 92 is mounted with a back pack board provided with a power switch for turning on and off the power supply, for example, while supplying a main power supply of AC 24 volts.

Further, the back pack 91 is provided with an external output terminal 99 on the rotation shaft side of the back pack unit 15 and on the upper edge side. The external output terminal 99 includes an output terminal for outputting a signal when the number of game balls is insufficient in the tank 95 or the like, an output terminal for outputting a signal each time a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out, and a predetermined number of game balls. An output terminal for outputting a signal each time it is rented, an output terminal for outputting a signal when the gaming machine main body 12 is opened, an output terminal for outputting a signal when the front door frame 14 is opened, and a state transition such as an opening / closing execution mode. An output terminal for outputting a signal (or while transitioning to a state) is provided. Then, through these output terminals, a signal regarding the state on the frame side is output to the management control device on the game hall side. It should be noted that an output terminal for outputting a signal each time a predetermined number of game balls are rented is not required in a so-called cash machine.

The control device collective unit 93 includes a payout control device 97, a power supply, and a launch control device 98. The payout control device 97 and the power supply and launch control device 98 are arranged so as to be stacked in the front-rear direction so that the payout control device 97 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

The payout control device 97 is configured by accommodating a payout control board that controls the payout device 96 in a board box. In this case, the same fraud suppression means as the board box 83 of the main control device 81 may be applied to the board box of the payout control device 97.

The power supply and launch control device 98 is configured by accommodating a power supply and a launch control board in a board box, and the board generates and outputs predetermined power required by various control devices and the like, and is further determined by a player. The launch of the game ball is controlled by operating the firing handle 60. In addition, the pachinko machine 10 has a storage and retention function for various data, and can maintain the state at the time of a power failure even in the unlikely event of a power failure, and can return to the state at the time of a power failure when recovering from the power failure. It has become like.

<Variable winning unit 151>
In the present embodiment, the configuration of the variable winning unit 151, in which winning is allowed by the open / close execution mode, is characteristic. Therefore, the configuration of the variable winning unit 151 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9 in addition to FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the variable winning unit 151 as viewed diagonally from the front, and FIG. 6 is a breaking view showing the internal structure of the variable winning unit 151. Note that FIG. 5 shows the variable winning unit 151 with the front cover removed, and FIG. 6 shows the front cover partially broken. 7 is a rear view of the variable winning unit 151, FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the variable winning unit 151 as viewed diagonally from the rear, and FIG. 9 is a vertical sectional view of the variable winning unit 151. In each figure, some configurations are omitted so that the main configurations can be easily seen.

As shown in FIG. 4, an opening 25 penetrated in the thickness direction of the game board 24 is formed in the right region PE3 of the game board 24. As shown in FIG. 5, the variable winning unit 151 has a base body 152, and by fitting the base body 152 into the opening 25 from the front of the gaming machine, the variable winning unit 151 is attached to the gaming board 24. (See Fig. 9).

The base body 152 has a flat plate portion 154 that is flush with the front surface of the game board 24 in a state of being attached to the game board 24, and a bulging portion 155 that bulges forward from the flat plate portion 154 to the front of the game machine. There is. As the bulging portion 155, a left bulging portion 156 and a right bulging portion 157 are formed in the left-right direction, respectively, and these left and right bulging portions 156, 157 are arranged at predetermined intervals. The outer circumferences of the left and right bulging portions 156 and 157 are covered by the left standing wall 156a and the right standing wall 157a that are erected in front of the gaming machine from the flat plate portion 154, respectively. Intrusion is regulated. In other words, the game ball is distributed to the left and right of the bulging portions 156 and 157 along the standing walls 156a and 157a and flows down.

As shown in FIG. 6, a front cover 158 is provided so as to cover these bulging portions 156, 157 from the front. The front cover 158 faces the flat plate portion 154 with a gap thereof, and the game ball can pass through the area surrounded by the flat plate portion 154, the bulging portions 156, 157, and the front cover 158. In the following description, the enclosed area is referred to as a passing area TE. More specifically, the left and right bulging portions 156, 157 are arranged at intervals wider than the diameter dimension of a predetermined number (for example, 4) of game balls, and the flat plate portion 154 and the front cover 158. The distance from and is slightly wider than the diameter of the game ball. That is, the passing region TE is formed so that a plurality of game balls can flow down side by side in the lateral direction.

The front cover 158 is made of a transparent resin or the like, so that the rear configuration (for example, the passing region TE) can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine.

The guiding member 162 in the guiding mechanism 161 of the variable winning unit 151 is arranged between the bulging portions 156 and 157. The guide member 162 has a rectangular plate-shaped receiving portion 163 having a long side in the left-right direction, and the receiving portion 163 is formed by extending the long side so as to extend over the entire width of the passing region TE in the left-right direction. Has been done. The receiving portion 163 is formed so that the length of its short side is slightly longer than the diameter of the game ball. The receiving portion 163 is attached to the base body 152 so as to be rotatable around the guided rotation shaft 164 provided on one long side. Then, the receiving portion 163 is in a state of being parallel to the flat plate portion 154 of the base body 152 (FIG. 5 (b)) and is rotated upward from the parallel state to the front of the gaming machine from the flat plate portion 154. It is possible to switch between the state of standing upright (FIG. 5 (a)) and the state of standing upright. More specifically, in a state where the receiving portion 163 is parallel to the flat plate portion 154, the receiving surface 163a, which is a surface facing the front of the receiving portion 163, becomes flush with the front surface of the flat plate portion 154 and the game board 24, and the receiving portion 163. Is in a state of standing forward from the flat plate portion 154, the receiving surface 163a can face upward and receive a game ball flowing down from above.

The large winning opening 32 is provided on one side of the short side of the receiving portion 163. More specifically, on the right standing wall 157a of the right bulging portion 157, which is one of the bulging portions 156, 157, a game ball is placed at a position facing the left standing wall 156a (a position facing the passing region TE). A passable large winning opening 32 is formed. The receiving portion 163 is provided so as to be inclined downward to the large winning opening 32, and when the receiving portion 163 stands upright from the flat plate portion 154 toward the front of the gaming machine, the receiving portion 163 receives the gaming ball passing through the passing region TE. At the same time, it becomes possible to guide the received game ball toward the large winning opening 32. Further, in a state where the receiving portion 163 is parallel to the flat plate portion 154, the game ball passing through the passing region TE cannot be received, and the game ball cannot be guided to the large winning opening 32. That is, the state in which the receiving portion 163 stands up from the flat plate portion 154 toward the front of the gaming machine is the guided state of the guiding member 162, and the state in which the receiving portion 163 is parallel to the flat plate portion 154 is the non-inducing state of the guiding member 162. be.

In the base body 152, a recessed portion 159 that is recessed toward the rear of the gaming machine by the thickness of the receiving portion 163 is formed below the portion where the guided rotation shaft 164 of the receiving portion 163 is attached. See FIG. 9). Then, when the receiving portion 163 is parallel to the flat plate portion 154 and the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state, the receiving portion 163 is housed in the depressed portion 159 as shown in FIG. 9B. As a result, the interference of the receiving portion 163 with the game ball passing through the passing region TE when the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state is suppressed.

Inside the right bulging portion 157, an inner wall portion 171 that stands up toward the front of the gaming machine is provided. The inner wall portion 171 is provided with a first inner wall portion 172 and a second inner wall portion 173 at intervals of one game ball so as to be continuous from the upper end and the lower end of the large winning opening 32, and the first inner wall portion 173 is provided. The portion 172 and the second inner wall portion 173 are formed so as to extend toward the side opposite to the passing region TE. The first inner wall portion 172, the second inner wall portion 173, the flat plate portion 154, and the front cover 158 form a discharge passage HT for the game ball from the large winning opening 32.

The first inner wall portion 172 and the second inner wall portion 173 are formed so as to extend toward the side opposite to the passage region TE and to be folded back in the middle and extend toward the passage region TE. Then, the first inner wall portion 172 and the second inner wall portion 173 are formed so that the discharge passage HT has a downward slope as a whole. That is, the discharge passage HT is a curved passage having a curved portion in the middle.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first inner wall portion 172 and the second inner wall portion 173 are formed so as to extend to a position where the most downstream portion of the discharge passage HT is below the large winning opening 32. Then, in the most downstream portion, the flat plate portion 154 is formed with a discharge port 174 that is opened in the front-rear direction and through which a game ball can pass. Behind the discharge port 174, a passage (not shown) for discharging the game ball to the outside of the game machine is formed. That is, the game ball that has passed through the large winning opening 32 is guided to the discharge port 174 by the discharge passage HT, and is discharged from the discharge port 174 to the outside of the game machine.

As shown in FIG. 8, as the guidance mechanism 161, the discharge port 174 is provided with a discharge door 175 that can be switched between a closed state in which the discharge port 174 is closed and an open state in which the discharge port 174 is opened. The discharge door 175 is provided at the upper end of the discharge door 175 and is rotatable about a discharge rotation shaft 176 extending in the left-right direction. When the discharge door 175 is in the closed state, it contacts the flat plate portion 154 of the base body 152 from the rear to close the discharge port 174, and when the discharge door 175 is in the open state, it stands up from the flat plate portion 154 toward the rear. It will not overlap with the discharge port 174. Then, when the discharge door 175 is closed, the game ball entered from the large winning opening 32 is not discharged from the discharge port 174.

The discharge passage HT is set so that a predetermined number of game balls are accommodated in the passage space (see FIG. 6). More specifically, the passage space of the discharge passage HT is set to accommodate 10 game balls. Therefore, it can be said that the discharge passage HT has a function of retaining the discharge of the game ball up to 10 in the situation where the discharge door 175 is closed. In other words, in the situation where the discharge door 175 is closed, up to 10 balls can be entered into the large winning opening 32, and game balls exceeding that number can stay in the discharge passage HT (more specifically). The 10th game ball) makes it impossible to enter the ball. Further, as described above, even if the guiding member 162 is in the non-guided state, the game ball cannot enter the large winning opening 32.

As described above, since the discharge passage HT is formed as a curved passage having a curved portion, when a game ball is reserved in the discharge passage HT, in the curved portion, each game ball has a diameter of the game ball. The points that are shorter than each other come into contact with each other (see FIG. 6). Therefore, the passage length of the discharge passage HT is a length equal to or less than the length of the predetermined number (10) of the game balls accommodated. More specifically, the passage length of the discharge passage HT is set to be shorter than the length of a predetermined number of game balls. By doing so, it becomes possible to accommodate a larger number of game balls in a limited area.

The operating principle of the induction mechanism 161 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 in particular. A variable winning drive unit 181 is provided on the back surface of the base body 152. The variable winning drive unit 181 is connected to the main control device 81, and the drive control of the variable winning drive unit 181 is performed by the main control device 81. The first link member 182 is fixed to the variable winning drive unit 181, and the first link member 182 operates in the left-right direction by driving and controlling the variable winning drive unit 181. More specifically, when the variable winning drive unit 181 is in the driving state, the first link member 182 moves to one side in the left-right direction (left side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, right side in FIG. 8), and the variable winning drive unit 181 moves. In the non-driving state, the first link member 182 moves in the direction opposite to the direction in the driving state (to the right when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, to the left in FIG. 8).

A second link member 183 that can rotate about a rotation axis in the front-rear direction is provided on the back surface of the base body 152. The second link member 183 has a first link portion 184 linked to the first link member 182 and a second link portion 185 linked to the guide member 162. More specifically, the second link member 183 is arranged above the first link member 182, and the rotation shaft 186 of the second link member 183 is also arranged above the first link member 182. The first link portion 184 of the second link member 183 is provided so as to be below the rotation shaft 186, and the second link portion 185 of the second link member 183 is rotated in the second link member 183. The variable winning drive unit 181 is provided on the opposite side of the moving shaft 186.

More specifically, the second link member 183 is formed with a first link protrusion 183a projecting rearward so as to be parallel to the rotation shaft 186. Further, the first link member 182 is provided with a first wall portion 182a and a second wall portion 182b that stand upright in the front-rear direction and are spaced apart so as to sandwich the first link protrusion 183a from the left-right direction. Then, when the variable winning drive unit 181 is driven and controlled and the first link member 182 operates in the left-right direction, the first link protrusion 183a slides between the first wall portion 182a and the second wall portion 182b. The second link member 183 rotates about the rotation shaft 186.

The second link portion 185 of the second link member 183 is linked to a portion of the guide member 162 opposite to the receiving portion 163 with the induction rotation shaft 164 interposed therebetween. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, in the guide member 162, on the opposite side of the guide rotation shaft 164 to the receiving portion 163, at the end of the long side of the receiving portion 163 on the side of the large winning opening 32. Is provided with a rectangular plate-shaped door portion 165 so as to have a surface intersecting (orthogonal) with the receiving surface 163a of the receiving portion 163. The door portion 165 is formed so that the length of its short side is longer than the diameter of the game ball. When the guide member 162 is in the guided state, the door portion 165 is arranged behind the flat plate portion 154 (FIG. 8A), and when the guide member 162 is in the non-guided state, a part of the door portion 165 is a passage region TE. The other part of the door portion 165 is arranged behind the flat plate portion 154. In the door portion 165, the guide projection 166 is formed so as to project toward the second link member 183 at the portion arranged behind the flat plate portion 154 even when the guide member 162 is in the non-induction state. Then, the second link portion 185 of the second link member 183 comes into contact with the guide projection 166 from above, so that the guide member 162 and the second link member 183 are linked.

As shown in FIG. 7, a torsion spring 167 is provided on the induction rotation shaft 164 of the induction member 162, and the induction member 162 is urged to the non-induction state side by the torsion spring 167. As described above, when the second link member 183 rotates about the rotation shaft 186, the second link portion 185 also rotates. When the second link member 183 rotates clockwise (counterclockwise in FIG. 7) and the second link portion 185 moves upward, the guiding member 162 is subjected to the urging force of the torsion spring 167. It rotates from the induced state to the non-induced state. Further, when the second link member 183 rotates counterclockwise in front view (rotates clockwise in FIG. 7) and the second link portion 185 moves rearward, the rotational power (variable) of the second link member 183. The driving force of the winning drive unit 181) is transmitted via the guide projection 166 of the guide member 162, and the guide member 162 rotates from the non-guided state to the guided state.

That is, the operation of the first link member 182 by the variable winning drive unit 181 in the left-right direction is transmitted to the second link member 183 as a rotation operation with the front-back direction as the rotation axis, and the rotation operation with the left-right direction as the rotation axis. Is transmitted to the guide member 162. By doing so, it is possible to displace the guide member 162 without increasing the thickness of the variable winning unit 151 in the front-rear direction. Assuming that a motor for rotating the induction rotation shaft 164 of the induction member 162 is provided on an extension line of the induction rotation shaft 164, the motor is arranged so as to project forward by the radius of the motor. It will be. Then, if the motor is provided on the side opposite to the large winning opening 32 of the induction rotation shaft 164, the left bulging portion 156 becomes large, and the variable winning unit 151 occupies a large proportion of the right region PE3 by that amount. Become. Further, if the motor is provided on the side of the large winning opening 32 of the induction rotation shaft 164, it is necessary to form the discharge passage HT by detouring the motor. In that respect, by using the variable winning drive unit 181 as described above, the space of the variable winning unit 151 can be effectively used.

Further, when the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state and a part of the door portion 165 protrudes into the passing region TE, the portion protruding into the passing region TE overlaps with the large winning opening 32 from the passing region TE side. Be placed. As a result, when the guiding member 162 is in the non-guided state, entry into the large winning opening 32 is restricted. On the other hand, when the guiding member 162 is in the guiding state, the door portion 165 is arranged behind the flat plate portion 154 and does not overlap with the large winning opening 32. As a result, when the guiding member 162 is in the guided state, the ball is allowed to enter the large winning opening 32. That is, when the guide member 162 is in the guided state, the receiving portion 163 can receive the game ball, and the door portion 165 and the large winning opening 32 do not overlap with each other, so that the playing ball is sent to the large winning opening 32. It will be in a state of inducing. Further, when the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state, the receiving portion 163 cannot receive the game ball, and the door portion 165 and the large winning opening 32 overlap each other to guide the game ball to the large winning opening 32. Become.

Explaining the relationship between the passage length of the discharge passage HT and the position of the door portion 165, as shown in FIG. 6, 10 game balls, which is the maximum number of discharge passage HTs that can be accommodated, are accommodated in the discharge passage HT. In this case, when the door portion 165 is in a non-inductive state and protrudes into the passage region TE, the door portion 165 is upstream (passing) from the tenth game ball arranged at the most upstream position (the maximum accommodation number). The door portion 165 is arranged at a position shorter than the radius of the game ball on the upstream side of the tenth game ball on the area TE side). That is, when the guide member 162 is displaced between the guided state and the non-guided state, the door portion 165 is on the upstream side of the accommodated number of game balls when the maximum number of game balls is accommodated in the discharge passage HT. Therefore, the opening / closing operation is performed on the downstream side of the maximum number of game balls that can be accommodated by half of the game balls. By performing the opening / closing operation at such a position, the receiving portion is in a state where the maximum number of game balls is accommodated in the discharge passage HT and the subsequent game balls are in contact with the maximum number of game balls. Even if the ball is received by 163 and waits for entry, if the door portion 165 is displaced to the closed state, the game ball waiting for entry can be distributed to the passing area TE side instead of the discharge passage HT side. Will be.

Next, the relationship between the guide member 162 and the discharge door 175 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 7, a torsion spring 177 is provided on the discharge rotation shaft 176 of the discharge door 175, and the discharge door 175 is urged toward an open state by the torsion spring 177. Further, the first inner wall portion 172 and the second inner wall portion 173 are formed so that the discharge passage HT extends below the large winning opening 32, and the discharging port 174 is arranged below the large winning opening 32. There is. When the guide member 162 is displaced from the non-guided state to the guided state and the door portion 165 that opens and closes the large winning opening 32 rotates, the side of the door portion 165 that does not overlap with the large winning opening 32 of the door portion 165. The contact portion 168 formed at the end abuts against the discharge door 175 from the rear (see FIG. 8). Then, the discharge door 175 is displaced from the open state to the closed state by being pressed by the contact portion 168. When the guide member 162 is displaced from the guided state to the non-guided state, the contact portion 168 does not come into contact with the discharge door 175, and the discharge door 175 is displaced from the closed state to the open state by the urging force of the torsion spring 177.

Summarizing the operations of the variable winning unit 151 as described above, when the variable winning driving unit 181 is in the non-driving state, the second link portion 185 of the second link member 183 is arranged above by the first link member 182. .. As a result, the guiding member 162 is arranged in a non-inducing state by the urging force of the torsion spring 167. When the guiding member 162 is arranged in the non-inducing state, the receiving portion 163 becomes parallel to the flat plate portion 154 and cannot receive the game ball passing through the passing region TE. Further, when the guiding member 162 is arranged in the non-inducing state, the door portion 165 overlaps with the large winning opening 32, and the winning of the large winning opening 32 is restricted. On the other hand, when the guide member 162 is arranged in the non-induction state, the door portion 165 does not abut on the discharge door 175, and the discharge door 175 is arranged in the open state by the urging force of the torsion spring 177.

When the variable winning drive unit 181 is in the drive state, the second link unit 185 of the second link member 183 is arranged below by the first link member 182. As a result, a force that opposes the urging force of the torsion spring 167 is applied to the guiding member 162, and the guiding member 162 is displaced to the guiding state. When the guide member 162 is arranged in the guided state, the receiving portion 163 is in a state of protruding into the passing region TE, receives the game ball passing through the passing region TE, and guides the game ball to the large winning opening 32. It will be possible. Further, when the guide member 162 is arranged in the guided state, the door portion 165 is in a state of not overlapping with the large winning opening 32, and the game ball guided by the receiving portion 163 can win a prize in the large winning opening 32. On the other hand, when the guide member 162 is arranged in the guided state, the door portion 165 comes into contact with the discharge door 175 from the rear, and a force is applied to the discharge door 175 to resist the urging force of the torsion spring 177. The discharge door 175 is arranged in a closed state. Therefore, the game ball winning from the large winning opening 32 is not discharged from the discharge passage HT through the discharge port 174, but is held in the discharge passage HT.

As described above, the discharge passage HT can hold up to 10 game balls, and more game balls cannot enter the discharge passage HT. As a result, in the situation where the guiding member 162 is arranged in the guiding state, a game ball exceeding a predetermined number of 10 cannot be won from the large winning opening 32. After that, when the guiding member 162 is in the non-inducing state, the discharge door 175 is opened and the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage HT as described above.

As shown in FIG. 6, the discharge passage HT is provided with a winning sensor 32a for a large winning opening that detects a game ball that has won a prize from the large winning opening 32. The winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening is a region between the door portion 165 and the discharging door 175 in the discharging passage HT, and is provided at a position continuous from the large winning opening 32, and the discharging passage is provided from the large winning opening 32. It is possible to immediately detect the game ball that has flowed into the HT.

Further, as shown in an enlarged manner in FIG. 6, a return prevention valve 178 is provided at a position on the side of the large winning opening 32 with respect to the large winning opening winning sensor 32a near the entrance of the discharge passage HT. The return prevention valve 178 projects toward the inside of the discharge passage HT from the second inner wall portion 173 constituting the bottom in the vicinity of the inlet of the discharge passage HT, and is inclined toward the downstream side (discharge port 174 side) of the discharge passage HT. It is provided. The return prevention valve 178 is, for example, a stainless steel thin plate-shaped member. The return prevention valve 178 is elastically deformable, and the game ball flowing in from the large winning opening 32 passes over the return prevention valve 178 while elastically deforming the return prevention valve 178 toward the second inner wall portion 173. do. Further, as described above, since the return prevention valve 178 is provided so as to be inclined toward the downstream side of the discharge passage HT, when the game ball that has passed over the return prevention valve 178 tries to return to the large winning opening 32 side, The return prevention valve 178 is caught and the movement to the large winning opening 32 side is restricted. By providing the return prevention valve 178 in this way, the game ball flowing in from the large winning opening 32 collides with the game ball held in the discharge passage HT, for example, and the passing area is again passed from the large winning opening 32. It is prevented from being discharged to the TE side.

Here, when 10 game balls are held in the discharge passage HT and become full, the 10th game ball that has flowed in last gets over the return prevention valve 178 and becomes the return prevention valve 178. It is held in contact with it. Regarding the return prevention valve 178, in detail, the return prevention valve 178 elastically deformed to the side of the second inner wall portion 173 hits the tenth game ball in a state where the game ball passes and is restored to the inside of the discharge passage HT. I'm in contact. With such a positional relationship, even if the subsequent game ball collides with the tenth game ball in a situation where the discharge passage HT is full, the game is held. The movement of the ball is suppressed as much as possible. Therefore, even if the game ball collides as described above, the held game ball is not discharged from the large winning opening 32 side. In other words, the function of preventing the subsequent game ball from winning the large winning opening 32 is guaranteed while maintaining the full tank holding state of the discharge passage HT.

As shown in an enlarged manner in FIG. 6, when the game ball is full in the discharge passage HT, the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening cannot detect the tenth game ball, and the subsequent game ball is succeeded. The game ball is held in the discharge passage HT so that the game ball cannot be detected. More specifically, the detection area of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening is set to be near the center of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening when viewed in the direction of the passage length of the discharge passage HT. Further, when the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening detects the game ball, the diameter portion of the game ball is detected as the detected area. When the game ball is full in the discharge passage HT, the detected area of the tenth game ball is on the downstream side of the discharge passage HT from the detection area of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening. The tenth game ball is held so as to be located at. On the other hand, when the succeeding game ball comes into contact with the tenth game ball, the detected area of the succeeding game ball does not reach the detection area of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening. By doing so, it is possible to avoid the event of detecting the subsequent game ball while detecting the winning of the tenth game ball.

Further, in the variable winning unit 151, the game ball flowing down from above is received by the receiving portion 163, and the flowing direction is changed to the right to guide the game ball to the large winning opening 32. Therefore, when the game ball flows into the large winning opening 32, the game ball flows in with the speed of the game ball reduced. By doing so, the game ball will collide with the game ball held in the discharge passage HT relatively slowly, and it is possible to suppress erroneous detection in the prize sensor 32a for the large prize opening. It becomes.

<Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

The MPU 112 is mounted on the main control board 111. The MPU 112 is a ROM 113 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 112, and a memory for temporarily storing various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 113 is executed. A certain RAM 114, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like are built-in. It is not essential that the ROM 113 and the RAM 114 are integrated into one chip with respect to the MPU 112, and each may be individually chipped. This also applies to MPUs of control devices other than the main control device 81.

The MPU 112 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A power failure monitoring board 115 and a payout control device 97 provided in the main control device 81 are connected to the input side of the MPU 112. In this case, a power supply having a function of supplying operating power and a launch control device 98 are connected to the power failure monitoring board 115, and power is supplied to the MPU 112 via the power failure monitoring board 115.

Further, various sensors are connected to the input side of the MPU 112. The various sensors include a general winning opening 31, an upper working opening 33, a lower working opening 34, a through gate 35, a general winning opening winning sensor 31a for detecting the winning of the variable winning unit 151, and an upper working opening winning sensor 33a. A winning sensor 34c for the lower operating port, a winning sensor 35a for the through, a winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening, and the like are provided. Based on the detection results of these various sensors 31a, 33a, 34c, 35a, 32a, the MPU 112 makes a winning determination (ball entry determination) for each ball entry portion. Further, in the MPU 112, various lottery is executed based on the winning of the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34, and the through gate 35.

A power failure monitoring board 115, a payout control device 97, an effect control device 82, and the like are connected to the output side of the MPU 112. The payout control device 97 outputs, for example, a prize ball command based on a winning determination result to the prize ball corresponding entry unit corresponding to the payout of the prize ball.

Various commands for effect are output to the effect control device 82. Details of these various commands will be described later. Incidentally, the effect control device 82 is electrically connected to the main control device 81 via a connector unit (connection unit) provided with connectors at both ends of the signal line.

Further, an electric accessory drive unit 34b and a variable winning drive unit 181 are connected to the output side of the MPU 112 as various drive units. Various driver circuits are provided on the main control board 111, and the MPU 112 executes drive control of various drive units through the driver circuits. Specifically, when the transition to the open / close execution mode occurs, the drive control of the variable winning drive unit 181 is executed in the MPU 112 so that the displacement control of the guide member 162 is performed. Further, when the electric accessory 34a is won in the open state, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit 34b is executed in the MPU 112 so that the electric accessory 34a is opened and closed. Further, in each game round, the display control of the first result display unit AS or the second result display unit BS in the main display unit 43 is executed in the MPU 112, and the main display unit is in the open / close execution mode of the variable winning unit 151. The display control of the round display unit RS in 43 is executed. Then, when the lottery result of whether or not to open the electric accessory 34a is clearly shown, the display control of the accessory display unit 44 is executed in the MPU 112.

Furthermore, an external output terminal 99 is connected to the output side of the MPU 112, and through this external output terminal 99, the management control device (hall computer HC) on the game hall side is informed of the entry into various ball entry sections and a big hit. Information about the lottery result such as is output. This makes it possible to grasp the state of the pachinko machine 10 and the like with the hall computer HC.

The power failure monitoring board 115 relays between the main control board 111 and the power supply and launch control device 98, and monitors the DC stable 24 volt voltage output from the power supply and launch control device 98. The payout control device 97 controls the payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 96 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 81.

The power supply and the launch control device 98 are connected to, for example, a commercial power supply (external power supply) in a game hall or the like. Then, based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, the operating power required for each of the main control board 111, the payout control device 97, and the like is generated, and the generated operating power is supplied. By the way, the power supply and the launch control device 98 are provided with a power supply unit for power failure such as a backup capacitor, and even when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is in the OFF state, the power supply unit for power failure is mainly used. Power for storage retention is supplied to the RAM 114 of the control device 81.

Further, the power supply and the launch control device 98 are responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 53, and the game ball launch mechanism 53 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are satisfied. In this case, the game ball launch mechanism 53 has a launch rail extending toward the guide rail of the game board 24, a ball feeding device for supplying the game balls stored in the precision plate 71 onto the launch rail, and a launch rail. It is equipped with a solenoid, which is an electric actuator that launches the supplied game ball toward the guide rail, and the game ball is launched by supplying a drive signal from the power supply and the launch control device 98 to the solenoid. Rail.

The effect control device 82 is a display light emitting unit 63 and a speaker unit provided in each of the reserved light emitting units 45 to 47 provided in the variable display unit 36 and the front door frame 14 based on various commands input from the main control device 81. The 64 is driven and controlled, and the display control device 212 is controlled.

The MPU 242 is mounted on the effect control board 241 provided on the effect control device 82. The MPU 242 is a ROM 243 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 242, and a memory for temporarily storing various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 243 is executed. A certain RAM 244, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, and the like are built-in.

The MPU 242 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A main control device 81 is connected to the input side of the MPU 242. From the main control device 81, a hold display control command (hold display control information) such as a shift command or a hold command is received. In addition, it receives game times control commands (game times control information) such as fluctuation commands, type commands, and fluctuation end commands. It also receives open / close execution mode commands (open / close execution mode information) such as open command, close command, opening command, and ending command.

The MPU 242 performs processing for executing various effects based on various commands received from the main control device 81. The received command is stored in the command storage area provided in the RAM 244 of the MPU 242. Then, processing such as analysis of the stored command is performed, and various effects are executed. The ROM 243 of the MPU 242 is provided with various table storage areas, and the RAM 244 of the MPU 242 is provided with various flag storage areas and various counter areas. When performing various effects, processing using these areas is provided. It is possible to do.

On the output side of the MPU 242, the reserved light emitting units 45 to 47 provided in the variable display unit 36, the display light emitting unit 63 provided in the front door frame 14, and the speaker unit 64 are connected, and the display control device 212 is connected. Is connected.

The display control device 212 includes a display control board 271 on which an MPU 272 in which a program ROM 273 and a work RAM 274 are combined into chips, a video display processor (VDP) 255, a character ROM 276, and a video RAM 277, respectively, are mounted. There is.

The MPU272 is a command for holding display control (information for holding display control) for controlling the holding display, a command for controlling game times for performing variable display of symbols (information for controlling game times), from the effect control device 82. Receives open / close execution mode commands (open / close execution mode information) for displaying moving images in open / close execution mode. Then, the received commands are analyzed, or predetermined arithmetic processing is performed based on the received commands to control the VDP 275 (specifically, generate an internal command for the VDP 275).

The program ROM 273 is a memory for storing various control programs executed by the MPU 272 and fixed value data, and also stores and holds JPEG format image data for a background image.

The work RAM 274 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, and the like used when executing various programs by the MPU 272. These work data, flags, etc. are stored in each area of the work RAM 274.

The VDP275 is a kind of drawing circuit that directly operates an image processing device as a liquid crystal display driver built in the symbol display device 41. Since the VDP275 is an IC chip, it is also called a "drawing chip", and its substance can be said to be a microcomputer chip with a built-in firmware dedicated to drawing processing. The VDP 275 adjusts the timings of the MPU 272, the video RAM 277, and the like to intervene in reading and writing data, and reads the image data stored in the video RAM 277 from the character ROM 276 at a predetermined timing and displays it on the symbol display device 41.

The character ROM 276 plays a role as an image data library for storing character data such as a symbol displayed on the symbol display device 41. The character ROM 276 holds bitmap format image data of various display symbols, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like.

It is also possible to provide a plurality of character ROMs 276 and store image data and the like in each character ROM 276. Further, it is also possible to store the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 273 in the character ROM 276.

The video RAM 277 is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 41, and the display content of the symbol display device 41 is changed by rewriting the content of the video RAM 277.

Here, the display contents of the symbol display device 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing individual symbols displayed in a variable manner on the symbol display device 41, and FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a display screen G of the symbol display device 41.

As shown in FIGS. 11 (a) to 11 (j), the symbol which is a kind of the symbol consists of nine kinds of main symbols with the numbers "1" to "9" and a shell-shaped symbol. It is composed of sub-designs. More specifically, nine types of character symbols such as an octopus are assigned numbers "1" to "9" to form a main symbol.

As shown in FIG. 12A, the display screen G of the symbol display device 41 is set with three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 in an upper row, a middle row, and a lower row. Each symbol row Z1 to Z3 is configured by arranging a main symbol and a sub symbol in a predetermined order. Specifically, in the upper symbol row Z1, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in descending order of numbers, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. .. In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending order of numbers, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. That is, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol column Z2, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending order of numbers, and then between the main symbol of "9" and the main symbol of "1". The main symbol of "4" is additionally arranged in the above, and one sub symbol is arranged between each of these main symbols. That is, only in the middle symbol row Z2, 10 main symbols are arranged and composed of 20 symbols. Then, on the display screen G, the symbols of each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are variably displayed so as to scroll in a predetermined direction with periodicity. Further, as shown in FIG. 12B, on the display screen G, three symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of nine symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. It is supposed to be done.

Further, five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a right-down line L4, and a right-up line L5 are set on the display screen G. Then, the variable display is stopped in the order of the upper symbol row Z1 → the lower symbol row Z3 → the middle symbol row Z2, and all the symbol rows Z1 are formed in a state where a combination of symbols with the same number is formed on any of the effective lines. When the variable display of ~ Z3 is completed, the jackpot moving image is displayed as the occurrence of the jackpot result.

In this pachinko machine 10, the main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to "specific symbols", and when a probability variation jackpot result occurs, the same specific symbols are combined. Is stopped and displayed. In addition, the main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to "non-specific symbols", and when a normal jackpot result occurs, the combination of the same non-specific symbols is stopped and displayed. To.

The mode of variable display of symbols in the symbol display device 41 is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary, such as the number of symbol rows, the direction of variable display of symbols in the symbol row, the number of symbols in each symbol row, and the like. Can be changed as appropriate.

The first reserved display area Ga is set on the left side at the lower part of the display screen G, and the second reserved display area Gb is set on the right side at the lower part of the display screen G.

In the first hold display area (non-priority side hold display area) Ga, the same number of unit hold display areas Ga1 to Ga4 as the maximum number of holds when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. It is displayed as a partition. Specifically, when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33, the maximum number of holdings is 4, and in correspondence with this, the first holding display area Ga includes the first unit holding display areas Ga1 and the second. The unit hold display area Ga2, the third unit hold display area Ga3, and the fourth unit hold display area Ga4 are set.

For example, when the number of holdings when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33 is 1, a predetermined holding image is displayed only in the first unit holding display area Ga1, and the game ball is placed in the upper operating port 33. When the number of reserved images is four, a predetermined reserved image is displayed in all of the first unit reserved display area Ga1 to the fourth unit reserved display area Ga4.

Further, in the second hold display area (priority side hold display area) Gb, the same number of unit hold display areas Gb1 to Gb4 as the maximum number of holds when the game ball wins the lower operating port 34 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. It is displayed in a section so that it can be displayed. Specifically, when the game ball wins the lower operating port 34, the maximum number of holdings is 4, and in correspondence with this, the second holding display area Gb includes the first unit holding display area Gb1 and the second. The unit hold display area Gb2, the third unit hold display area Gb3, and the fourth unit hold display area Gb4 are set.

For example, when the number of holdings when the game ball wins in the lower operating port 34 is 1, the holding image is displayed only in the first unit holding display area Gb1, and the game ball wins in the lower operating opening 34. When the number of reserved images is 4, the reserved image is displayed in all of the 1st unit reserved display area Gb1 to the 4th unit reserved display area Gb4.

<Electrical configuration for performing various lottery with MPU 112 of the main control device 81>
Next, an electrical configuration for performing various lottery with the MPU 112 of the main control device 81 will be described with reference to FIG.

The MPU 112 uses various counter information during the game to perform a big hit generation lottery, setting the display of the main display unit 43, setting the effect content of the symbol display device 41, setting the display of the accessory display unit 44, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, when the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery for generating jackpots, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type, and the symbol display device 41 are displaced and fluctuate. The reach random number counter C3 used for the reach generation lottery, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the variation type counter for determining the variation display time in the main display unit 43 and the symbol display device 41. CS and are to be used. Further, the electric accessory opening counter C4 used for the lottery as to whether or not the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 is set to the electric accessory open state is used.

Each of the counters C1, C2, C3, CINI, CS, and C4 is a loop counter in which 1 is added to the previous value each time the counter is updated, and the counter returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in the lottery counter buffer 114a set in a predetermined area of the RAM 114. In the lottery counter buffer 114a, the information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variation type counter CS is obtained when a prize is generated in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. It is stored in the reserved ball storage area 114b as the acquisition information storage means.

The holding ball storage area 114b includes a holding area RE including a holding area Ra for the first result display unit and a holding area Rb for the second result display unit, and an execution area AE. The holding areas Ra and Rb are provided with a first area, a second area, a third area, and a fourth area, respectively, and are buffers for a lottery counter according to the winning history of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34, respectively. The numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variation type counter CS stored in 114a is stored in any of the areas as pending information. The reserved information corresponds to special information.

In this case, in the first area to the fourth area, when the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is awarded a plurality of times in succession, the first area → the second area → the third area → the fourth. Each numerical information is stored in chronological order in the order of areas. By providing each of the four areas in this way, up to four winning histories of the game balls to the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 can be reserved and stored. Further, a total reserved number storage area is provided in the reserved ball storage area 114b, and the number of winning histories stored in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is specified in the total reserved number storage area. Information to do is stored.

The number that can be stored on hold is not limited to four, and may be any other, such as two, three, or five or more, or may be a single number.

The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first area of the hold area RE when starting the variable display of the main display unit 43, and is the execution area AE at the start of one game round. Based on various numerical information stored in, the hit / fail judgment is performed.

More specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of, for example, 0 to 599, reach the maximum value (that is, 599), and then return to 0. When the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The jackpot random number counter C1 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 114b of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area Ra for the first result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33, and the second result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the lower operating port 34. It is stored in the reserved area Rb.

The value of the random number that wins the jackpot is stored as a hit / miss table (hit / miss information group) in the hit / miss table storage area 113a as the hit / miss information group storage means in the ROM 113. As the pass / fail table, a pass / fail table for the low-probability mode (low-probability pass / fail information group) and a pass / fail table for the high-probability mode (high-probability pass / fail information group) are set. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery mode in the winning / failing lottery means. In each winning / failing table, the random number value is set so that the winning / failing table for the high probability mode has a higher probability of winning the jackpot than the winning / failing table for the low probability mode.

Further, in each lottery mode, the lottery result is out of order except for the value of the random number that is the big hit.

The jackpot type counter C2 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 29, reach the maximum value (that is, 29), and then return to 0. Here, in the present embodiment, a plurality of jackpot results are set. These multiple jackpot results are subject to two conditions: (1) a lottery mode in the winning / failing lottery means after the opening / closing execution mode ends, and (2) a support mode in the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 after the opening / closing execution mode ends. By providing a difference, a plurality of jackpot results are set.

As the support mode in the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34, the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 is compared in a situation where the launch of the game ball is continued in the same manner with respect to the gaming area PE. Low-frequency support mode (low-frequency support state or low-frequency guide state) and high-frequency support mode (high-frequency support state or high-frequency guide state) so that the frequency of opening is relatively high or low per unit time. ) And are set.

Specifically, in the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the electric role open state in the electric accessory open lottery using the electric accessory release counter C4 is the same (for example, both are 1/2). However, in the high-frequency support mode, the number of times the electric accessory 34a is opened when the electric role open state is won is set more than in the low-frequency support mode, and one more release. The time is set long. In this case, in the high frequency support mode, when the electric accessory open state is won and the electric accessory 34a is opened multiple times, the electric accessory 34a is closed from the end of one open state to the start of the next open state. The time is set shorter than the one-time opening time. Furthermore, in the high-frequency support mode, the minimum secured time for the next electric accessory opening lottery to be held after one electric accessory opening lottery is set is shorter than in the low-frequency support mode. Has been done.

As described above, in the high frequency support mode, the probability that the lower operating port 34 will be won is higher than in the low frequency support mode. In other words, in the low frequency support mode, the probability of winning the upper operating port 33 is higher than that of the lower operating port 34, but in the high frequency support mode, the lower operating port 34 is more likely than the upper operating port 33. The probability of winning a prize increases. Then, when a prize is won in the lower operating port 34, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high frequency support mode, the player plays a game while not reducing the number of balls held so much. be able to.

The configuration for increasing the frequency of the high-frequency support mode to be in the electric service open state per unit time is not limited to the above, for example, the electric accessory open lottery. It may be configured to increase the probability of winning the electric service open state in. Further, the high-frequency support mode and the low-frequency support mode may be set by differentiating any one of the conditions of the number of times, the opening time, and the winning probability, or any combination of the conditions.

The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 114b of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area Ra for the first result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33, and the second result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the lower operating port 34. It is stored in the reserved area Rb.

The distribution destination of the game result for the jackpot type counter C2 is stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in the distribution table storage area 113b as the distribution information group storage means in the ROM 113.

In the present embodiment, a normal jackpot result and a probabilistic jackpot result are set as the types of jackpot results. The normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. However, this high-frequency support mode shifts to the low-frequency support mode when the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the transition.

The probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the end of the open / close execution mode. The high-frequency support mode continues until the lottery result in the winning / losing lottery becomes a big hit state and the state shifts to the big hit state.

In relation to each of the above game states, the normal game state means a state in which the winning / failing lottery mode is a low probability mode and the support mode is a low frequency support mode.

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of, for example, 0 to 238, reach the maximum value (that is, 238), and then return to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 114b of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area Ra for the first result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33, and the second result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the lower operating port 34. It is stored in the reserved area Rb. Then, it is decided whether or not to generate the reach based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 113. However, in the game round to shift to the open / close execution mode, the MPU 112 determines the reach generation regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3. The number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display is the same in each game state, but may be set individually according to the game state. For example, when the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display may be set to be larger than that in the low frequency support mode.

Here, the reach display (reach state) is provided with a symbol display device 41 capable of performing variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture), and is a game time in which the variable winning unit 151 is opened / closed. In a gaming machine whose stop display result after variable display is a special display result, after the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 41 is started, before the stop display result is derived and displayed. , A display state for making the player think that the special display result is a variable display state.

In other words, by stopping and displaying some of the symbols among the plurality of symbols displayed on the display screen of the symbol display device 41, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is established. It is a display state in which a combination of reach symbols that may be possible is displayed, and in that state, a variable display of symbols is performed in the remaining symbol rows.

More specifically, as a pre-stage for ending the variable display of the symbol, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is established on the preset effective line in the display screen of the symbol display device 41. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a combination of possible reach symbols, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a variable display of the symbols is performed by the final stop symbol sequence.

To specifically explain the display contents of FIG. 12, first, high-speed fluctuation display is started for all the symbol rows Z1 to Z3. In this case, it is difficult or impossible to recognize which symbol is displayed. After that, the variation display mode of the upper symbol sequence Z1 is switched from the high-speed variation display to the low-speed variation display in which the player can easily or can recognize the symbol displayed. Then, when the variation display of the upper symbol sequence Z1 is completed, the variation display mode of the lower symbol sequence Z3 is switched from the high-speed variation display to the low-speed variation display. After that, the variable display of the lower symbol column Z3 ends. In this case, the reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the main symbols with the same numbers on any of the effective lines L1 to L5. Then, when the fluctuation display of the middle symbol row Z2 is switched from the high-speed fluctuation display to the low-speed fluctuation display and the open / close execution mode is generated, the main symbol with the same number as the main symbol forming the reach line is attached. Is stopped and displayed on the reach line, and the variation display of the symbols in the symbol row Z2 in the middle row is terminated.

Further, in the reach display, in the state where the combination of the reach symbols is displayed as described above, the variable display of the symbols is performed in the remaining symbol rows, and a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image on the background screen to reach the reach. It includes those that perform an effect and those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen after reducing or hiding the combination of reach symbols. Further, when the reach display is performed or before the reach display, it is determined whether or not to perform the advance notice display using a predetermined image such as a predetermined character by using the reach random number counter C3 or another counter. You may.

The variation type counter CS is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The variation type counter CS is used in the MPU 112 to determine the variation display time in the first result display unit AS and the second result display unit BS of the main display unit 43 and the variation display time of the symbol in the symbol display device 41. Be done. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time the normal processing described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal processing. Then, the variable type counter CS is stored in the reserved ball storage area 114b of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area Ra for the first result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 33, and the second result display unit of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins in the lower operating port 34. It is stored in the reserved area Rb.

The electric accessory opening counter C4 is configured to, for example, add 1 in order within the range of 0 to 250, reach the maximum value (that is, 250), and then return to 0. The electric accessory opening counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric accessory holding area 114c of the RAM 114 at the timing when the game ball wins the through gate 35. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 34a to the open state by the value of the stored electric accessory opening counter C4. For example, if C4 = 0 to 190, the electric accessory 34a is controlled to the open state, and if C4 = 191 to 250, the electric accessory 34a is not controlled to the open state.

In the MPU 112, the fluctuation display time in the first result display unit AS and the second result display unit BS is determined by using the value of the variation type counter CS stored in the execution area AE. The variable display time table storage area 113c is used. Further, in the MPU 112, the stop result in the first result display unit AS and the second result display unit BS is determined by using the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the value of the jackpot type counter C2 stored in the execution area AE. However, in making the determination, the stop result table storage area of the ROM 113 is used.

<About various processes executed by the main controller 81>
Next, timer interrupt processing and normal processing executed for advancing the game by the MPU 112 in the main control device 81 will be described. In the MPU 112, in addition to the timer interrupt processing and the normal processing, the main processing activated when the power is turned on and the NMI interrupt processing activated by inputting a power failure signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal) are executed. The description of these processes will be omitted.

<Timer interrupt processing>
First, the timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is periodically activated by the MPU 112 (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec).

In step S101, reading processing of various detection sensors is executed. In the reading process, the states of the various detection sensors 31a, 33a, 34c, 35a, 32a are read, the states of the various detection sensors 31a, 33a, 34c, 35a, 32a are determined, and the detection information is saved. .. Further, when the winning of the game ball is detected by the various detection sensors 31a, 33a, 34c, 32a corresponding to the generation of the prize ball, the prize for instructing the payout control device 97 to pay out the prize ball. Set the ball command. For example, when the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening detects the winning of the variable winning unit 151, a prize ball command for instructing 15 prize balls, which is the corresponding number of prize balls, is set. In the following step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated.

In the following step S103, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum value, they are cleared to 0, respectively. Then, the updated values of the counters C1, C2, C3, and C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 114.

In the following step S104, a prize-winning process for thru accompanying the prize-winning to the through gate 35 is executed. In the winning process for through, when a winning is generated in the through gate 35, the number of winning combinations stored in the electric service holding area 114c is less than the upper limit number (for example, “4”). On condition that this is the condition, the value of the electric accessory opening counter C4 updated in step S103 is stored in the electric accessory holding area 114c. Further, the effect control device 82 is subjected to a process for lighting the third reserved light emitting unit 47 corresponding to the number of reserved characters stored.

Then, after the winning process for the operating port is executed in step S105, the timer interrupt process is terminated. In the winning process for the operating port, based on the winning of the game ball in any of the operating ports 33 and 34, a prize ball command for paying out the game ball based on the winning is set, and a jackpot random number counter is set. Information acquisition processing is performed to store the values of C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variable type counter CS.

In the information acquisition process, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won a prize (starting prize) in the upper operating port 33. When the upper operating port 33 has won a prize, the number of hold information stored in the hold area Ra for the first result display unit is grasped, and the grasped number is set as the first start hold storage number RaN. .. On the other hand, when the game ball has not won the upper operating opening 33, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won the lower operating opening 34 (starting winning). When the lower operating port 34 has won a prize, the number of hold information stored in the hold area Rb for the second result display unit is grasped, and the grasped number is set as the second start hold storage number RbN. .. Then, it is determined whether or not the set start hold storage number N (RaN or RbN) is less than the upper limit value (4 in this embodiment). If the start hold storage number N is less than the upper limit value, the start hold storage number N in the corresponding result display hold area is updated to be incremented by 1. When the first start hold storage number RaN is set, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variation type counter CS are set to the hold area Ra for the first result display unit. When it is stored in the first storage area of the free storage area and the second start hold storage number RbN is set, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variable type counter CS Each value is stored in the first storage area of the free storage area of the holding area Rb for the second result display unit. After that, the effect control device 82 is subjected to a process for lighting the first reserved light emitting unit 45 or the second reserved light emitting unit 46 corresponding to the number of start pending storages.

<Normal processing>
Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is started when the power is turned on is executed, and in the normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, the processes of steps S201 to S206 are executed as periodic processes having a cycle of 4 msec, and the counter update processes of steps S209 and S210 are executed in the remaining time.

In the normal processing, first, the external signal output processing is executed in step S201. In the external signal output processing in step S201, output data such as a command set in the timer interrupt processing or the previous normal processing is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence or absence of the prize ball command is determined, and if the prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 97. If a command for effect is set, it is transmitted to the effect control device 82.

Next, in step S202, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the fluctuation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, the counter value is cleared to 0. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 114.

In the following step S203, a game time control process for advancing the game of each game time is executed. In this game round control process, a hit / fail judgment such as a big hit and a distribution judgment of a big hit type are performed, and a variation display of a symbol is set by the symbol display device 41, a variation display is set in the main display unit 43, and the like.

After executing the game times control process in step S203, the process proceeds to step S204 to execute the game state transition process. By this game state transition process, the game state shifts to the open / close execution mode or the like. The details of the game times control process in step S203 and the game state transition process in step S204 will be described later.

In the following step S205, an electric service support process for driving and controlling the electric accessory 34a provided in the lower actuating port 34 is executed. In this electric service support process, the electric service is released depending on whether or not the electric service 34a is opened by using the numerical information acquired from the electric service release counter C4 stored in the electric service holding area 114c of the RAM 114. A lottery is performed, and when the electric accessory is won in the open state, the electric accessory 34a is opened and closed. In addition, the display control of the accessory display unit 44 is performed so as to teach the lottery result of the electric service opening lottery.

After that, in step S206, the game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid of the game ball launch mechanism 53 is excited once in a predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power supply and the launch control device 98. .. As a result, the game ball is launched toward the game area.

In the following step S207, it is determined whether or not the power failure flag is set in the RAM 114. The power failure flag is a flag that is set when the occurrence of a power failure is confirmed on the power failure monitoring board 115 and a power failure signal is input from the power failure monitoring board 115 to the NMI terminal of the MPU 112, and is erased in the next main process.

If the power failure flag is not set, it means that the last process of the plurality of processes to be repeatedly executed has been completed. Therefore, whether or not the execution timing of the next normal process has been reached in step S208, that is, the previous normal process. It is determined whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed from the start of the process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is reached.

That is, in step S209, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is added by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 114. Further, in step S210, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is added by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum value, the counter values are cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 114.

Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S201 to S206 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and varies. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1) can be updated at random, and similarly. The variable type counter CS can also be updated at random.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S207 that the power failure flag is set, it means that the power supply has been cut off, so the power failure processing after step S211 is executed. That is, in step S211, the occurrence of timer interrupt processing is prohibited, then the RAM determination value is calculated and saved in step S212, access to the RAM 114 is prohibited in step S213, and then the power supply is completely shut off for processing. Continues an infinite loop until it can no longer be executed.

<Game times control process>
Next, the game times control process in step S203 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the game times control process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode flag is stored (stored) in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114. The open / close execution mode flag is stored when the game state is shifted to the open / close execution mode in the game state transition process described later, and is deleted when the open / close execution mode is terminated in the game state transition process.

When the open / close execution mode is in progress, the main game is performed without executing any of the processes after step S302, that is, the game round start process of steps S303 to S305 and the game round progress process of steps S306 to S309. Ends the control process. That is, in the open / close execution mode, the game round is not started regardless of whether or not the operating openings 33 and 34 have been won.

If it is not in the open / close execution mode, it is determined in step S302 whether or not the main display unit 43 is in the variable display. Specifically, it is determined whether or not either the first result display unit AS or the second result display unit BS is in the variable display. It should be noted that this determination is performed by determining whether or not the variable display flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114. The variation display flag is stored when the variation display is started for either the first result display unit AS or the second result display unit BS, and is cleared when the variation display ends.

If the main display unit 43 is not in the variable display, the process proceeds to the game round start process of steps S303 to S305. In the game round start process, first, in step S303, it is determined whether or not the common hold number CRN, which is the total number of start hold storages of the first result display unit and the second result display unit, is “0”. When the common hold number CRN is "0", it means that the start hold storage numbers RaN and RbN are "0" for both the upper working port 33 and the lower working port 34. Therefore, the game times control process is terminated as it is. If the common hold number CRN is not "0", the data stored in the hold area Ra for the first result display unit or the hold area Rb for the second result display unit is set for variable display in step S304. After executing the data setting process of the above, and further executing the variation start process for starting the variation display in the main display unit 43 and the variation display in the symbol display device 41 in step S305, the game round control process is terminated. In the fluctuation start process, the win / fail lottery is executed based on the data (holding information) set in the data setting process, and the stop result is such that the game round ends with the stop result corresponding to the result of the win / fail lottery. Make settings. In addition, the fluctuation display time of the game times to be executed this time is set based on the fluctuation type counter CS and the like. Further, in the variation start process, a variation command including information on the game result and a type command including information on the variation display time are sent to the effect control device 82 so that the effect corresponding to the game times to be executed this time is performed. Output settings. The variation command and the type command are transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 transmits the received command to the display control device 212 while maintaining the information form. Upon receiving the command, the display control device 212 executes display control of the symbol display device 41 or the like so as to start the effect of the game times.

When the main display unit 43 is in the variable display, the game round progress processing of steps S306 to S309 is executed. In the game round progress process, first, in step S306, it is determined whether or not the variation display time of the current game round has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the fluctuation display time information stored in the fluctuation display time counter area of the RAM 114 is "0". The value of the fluctuation display time information is set in the fluctuation start processing at the start of the game round. Further, the value of the set variable display time information is decremented by 1 each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 14) is activated.

If the variation display time has not elapsed, the variation display process is executed in step S307. In the variable display processing, the result display unit is displayed and controlled (light emission control of each display segment) so that each display segment is turned on and off in a predetermined order in the result display unit related to the current game round. , The game round control process is terminated.

If the variation display time has elapsed, the variation end process is executed in step S308. In the variation end processing, the information set based on the result of the winning / failing lottery of the variation start processing is specified, and the main display unit 43 is controlled so that the pattern corresponding to the information is stopped and displayed on the main display unit 43. do.

In the following step S309, a variable end command is set. After that, the game round control process is terminated. The variation end command set in step S309 is transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 transmits the received variable end command to the display control device 212 while maintaining the information form. By receiving the variable end command, the display control device 212 makes a definite display (final stop display) of the combination of the final stop symbols in the game round.

<Game state transition process>
Next, the game state transition process of step S204 in the normal process (FIG. 15) will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 17 to 18.

First, in step S401, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. If it is not in the open / close execution mode, the process proceeds to step S402, and it is determined whether or not it is the timing at which the variation display of the pattern on the first result display unit AS or the second result display unit BS of one game is completed. If it is not the timing when the variation display is finished, the game state transition process is finished as it is.

When the variation display is finished, in step S403, it is determined whether or not the game result of the current game times corresponds to the transition to the open / close execution mode. If it does not correspond to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the game state transition process is terminated as it is.

If it corresponds to the transition of the open / close execution mode, the start processing of the open / close execution mode is executed in step S404. In the start process, it is checked that the variable winning unit 151 is in the closed state before the start of the open / close execution mode. Further, in the opening / closing execution mode start processing, the opening period setting processing for waiting without starting the opening of the variable winning unit 151 at the start of the opening / closing execution mode is executed. In the opening period setting process, the waiting time information for opening stored in advance in the ROM 113 is set in the timer counter T provided in the various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114. The value of the timer counter T is decremented by 1 in a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec cycle, every time the timer interrupt process is activated).

In the following step S405, as the start processing of the round display, the number of rounds of the open / close execution mode to be executed this time by the round display unit RS in the main display unit 43 (in this embodiment, “15” in any jackpot result) is displayed. To control.

In the following step S406, an opening command is set. This set opening command is transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the open / close execution mode based on the received opening command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed. The content of this effect includes a display mode in the symbol display device 41, and the determined display mode is output from the effect control device 82 to the display control device 212 as a display content command. The display control device 212 controls the display of the symbol display device 41 so that the display (for example, moving image display) corresponding to the current opening / closing execution mode is performed based on the display content command received from the effect control device 82.

Then, in step S407, after executing the external signal setting process, the game state transition process is terminated. In the external signal setting process, the signal output state of the output terminal for the jackpot signal provided in the external output terminal 99 is set to the jackpot signal output state. As a result, when the output terminal for the jackpot signal is connected to the management control device on the game hall side, the jackpot signal is output to the management control device, and the pachinko machine 10 generates a jackpot in the management control device. You can understand what you have done.

On the other hand, if the open / close execution mode is in progress, an affirmative determination is made in step S401, and the process proceeds to step S408. In step S408, it is determined whether or not the waiting time for opening has elapsed. If the waiting time for the opening has not elapsed, the game state transition process is terminated as it is. If the waiting time for the opening has elapsed, the large winning opening opening / closing process is executed in step S409. Here, the large winning opening opening / closing process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the variable winning unit 151 is in the open state and the large winning opening 32 is open. Specifically, such a determination is made based on the driving state of the variable winning driving unit 181. When the large winning opening 32 is not opened, it is determined in step S502 whether or not the value of the round counter RC is "0", and whether or not the value of the timer counter T is "0" in step S503. To judge.

If the value of the round counter RC is "0" or the value of the timer counter T is not "0", the opening / closing process of the main winning opening is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the value of the round counter RC is not "0" and the value of the timer counter T is "0", the process proceeds to step S504, and the variable winning drive unit 181 is set to open the variable winning unit 151. It is in the driving state.

In the following step S505, a round opening time setting process is executed. In the opening time setting process, "15000" (30 sec) corresponding to the upper limit opening time (upper limit opening period) of the round is input to the timer counter T.

In the following step S506, the processing for setting the maximum number of winnings in each round is performed. In the process of setting the maximum number of winnings in each round, a process of inputting "10" corresponding to the maximum number of winnings is performed in the winning counter PC provided in various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114.

Then, in step S507, the release command is set, and the main opening / closing process is completed. This set release command is transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 determines the content of the effect corresponding to each round based on the received release command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed.

If the variable winning unit 151 is in the open state in step S501, the process proceeds to step S508, and it is determined whether or not the value of the timer counter T is "0". When the value of the timer counter T is not "0", it is determined in step S509 whether or not the game ball has won the variable winning unit 151 based on the detection state of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening. If no prize has been awarded, the main opening / closing process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when a prize has been generated, the value of the prize counter PC is decremented by 1 in step S510, and then it is determined in step S511 whether or not the value of the prize counter PC is "0", and "0". If not, the main opening / closing process is terminated as it is.

When the value of the timer counter T is "0" in step S508 and the upper limit opening time has elapsed, or when the value of the winning counter PC is "0" in step S511 and the upper limit winning number is won. , Means that the end condition of the round has been met. In such a case, the variable winning drive unit 181 is put into a non-driving state in order to close the variable winning unit 151 in step S512.

In the following step S513, the value of the round counter RC is decremented by 1 and the round counter RC is updated. Following step S514, it is determined whether or not the value of the round counter RC is "0".

If the value of the round counter RC is not "0", the closing time between the rounds, that is, from the open state to the closed state of the variable winning unit 151 and then to the open state again is set in step S515. Execute the process. In the closing time setting process, a process of inputting "2000" (4 sec) corresponding to the waiting time (interval) between rounds is performed in the timer counter T.

Here, in the variable winning unit 151 in the present embodiment, the discharge passage HT is tilted or discharged so that the period required for one game ball to be discharged from the discharge passage HT is 0.3 sec (discharge period H). Exit 174 is set. The closing time input in step S515 is set to be longer than the discharge period (3 sec, H × 10) corresponding to the maximum number of winnings in each round. By doing so, in the waiting time between rounds, all the game balls held in the discharge passage HT are discharged through the discharge port 174.

After that, the closing command is set in step S516, and the main opening / closing process is completed. The closing command is transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the interval of the round game based on the received closing command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed. The content of this effect includes a display mode in the symbol display device 41, and the determined display mode is output from the effect control device 82 to the display control device 212 as a display content command. The display control device 212 controls the display of the symbol display device 41 so that the display corresponding to the interval of the round game (for example, moving image display) is performed based on the display content command received from the effect control device 82.

If it is determined in step S514 that the value of the round counter RC is "0", the ending start process is executed in step S517. In the start process, an ending waiting time for waiting without starting the next game round for the ending of the open / close execution mode is set. Specifically, the timer counter T is set with the waiting time information for the ending stored in advance in the ROM 113. In the present embodiment, the waiting time for ending is set to be 5 sec, and in step S517, a process of inputting "2500" to the timer counter T is performed.

Then, in step S518, after setting the ending command, the main opening / closing process is terminated. The ending command is transmitted to the effect control device 82 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The effect control device 82 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the end of the open / close execution mode based on the received ending command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed. The content of this effect includes a display mode in the symbol display device 41, and the determined display mode is output from the effect control device 82 to the display control device 212 as a display content command. The display control device 212 controls the display of the symbol display device 41 so that the display (for example, moving image display) corresponding to the end of the current open / close execution mode is performed based on the display content command received from the effect control device 82. ..

Returning to the description of the game state transition process (FIG. 17), after executing the large winning opening opening / closing process in step S409, it is determined in step S410 whether or not the round counter RC is “0”. If the value of the round counter RC is not "0", the game state transition process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the value of the round counter RC is "0", the timer counter T determines whether or not the waiting time for the ending has ended in step S411. If the waiting time for the ending has not ended, the game state transition process ends as it is. On the other hand, when the waiting time for the ending has ended, the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode is executed in step S412.

In the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode, the win / fail lottery mode and the support mode after the open / close execution mode are set. Specifically, if the trigger of the opening / closing execution mode this time is a probabilistic jackpot result, after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the game state shifts to the high probability mode and the high frequency support mode, and the normal jackpot result is obtained. If so, after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the game state shifts to the low probability mode and the high frequency support mode with a limited number of times.

Then, the process for ending the display of the round display unit RS is executed in step S413, the end process of the open / close execution mode is executed in step S414, and then the game state transition process is terminated. In the end processing of the open / close execution mode, the transition to the open / close execution mode and the deletion of various counters and flags used in the open / close execution mode are performed.

<Winning mode for each round>
Next, a state in which the game ball wins the variable winning unit 151 in each round will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

When the round is started at the timing of t0 and the variable winning drive unit 181 is in the driving state, the guiding member 162 of the guiding mechanism 161 is in the guiding state via the first link member 182 and the second link member 183. As a result, the receiving portion 163 can receive the game ball, the large winning opening 32 is opened, and the variable winning unit 151 is opened.

Further, when the guiding member 162 is in the guiding state, the contact portion 168 of the guiding member 162 is in contact with the discharge door 175, and the discharge door 175 is closed. As a result, the discharge passage HT from the large winning opening 32 is in a state in which the game ball is not discharged from the discharge port 174 (a state in which the game ball is held in the discharge passage HT).

When a game ball wins a prize in the large winning opening 32 at the timing of t1, the game ball is detected by the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening. This detection timing is delayed by a period a (0.1 sec) after passing through the large winning opening 32. This delay is due to the positional relationship between the large winning opening 32 and the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening.

As described above, the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening is provided so as to be continuous from the large winning opening 32 so that the game ball that has passed through the large winning opening 32 can be detected as soon as possible. However, there is a limit to reducing the physical size of the sensor, and it may be technically difficult to bring the detection area of the sensor closer to the winning opening 32. Therefore, as described above, there will be a considerable delay from passing (winning) to detection.

This delay occurs every time a prize is won in the large winning opening 32, and when a winning in the large winning opening 32 occurs at each timing of t1 to t9, the timing of t1a to t9a delayed by the period a, respectively. The winning game ball is detected. Then, the game balls that have won prizes at the timings of t1 to t9 are maintained in a state of being held in the discharge passage HT.

Then, at the timing of t10, when the 10th game ball, which is the upper limit winning number in this round, wins in the large winning opening 32, the number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT also becomes 10, which is 10 When the first game ball collides with the succeeding game ball, the succeeding game ball cannot win a prize in the large winning opening 32. Then, at the timing of t10a, which is delayed by the period a from the timing of t10, the main control device 81 grasps that the upper limit winning number of the round has been won, and closes the variable winning unit 151 in order to end this round. Make it a state. Specifically, by setting the driving state of the variable winning driving unit 181 to the non-driving state, the guiding member 162 of the guiding mechanism 161 becomes the non-inducing state via the first link member 182 and the second link member 183. As a result, it becomes impossible to receive the game ball by the receiving portion 163, the large winning opening 32 is closed, and the variable winning unit 151 is closed.

Further, when the guide member 162 is in the non-induction state, the contact portion 168 of the guide member 162 is not in contact with the discharge door 175, and the discharge door 175 is in the open state. As a result, the discharge passage HT from the large winning opening 32 is in a state of discharging the game ball from the discharge port 174 (a state in which the game ball is not held in the discharge passage HT). As a result, the game ball held in the discharge passage HT during the round is discharged through the discharge port 174. As described above, the interval (closing time) between rounds in the present embodiment is longer than the period during which the number of game balls that can be held in the discharge passage HT (upper limit winning number of rounds) is discharged. Is set to be. As a result, all the game balls are ejected during the interval, and in the next round, it becomes possible to hold the upper limit winning number of game balls again in the discharge passage HT.

<Detection of ball jam>
Next, the ball jam determination process for the large winning opening, which is executed by the MPU 112 of the main control device 81, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The main ball clogging determination process is a process started by the MPU 112 at a predetermined cycle (for example, a 2 msec cycle).

In step S601, it is determined whether or not the detection state of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening is the state of detecting the game ball. If it is detected, the process proceeds to step S602, and it is determined whether or not the determination flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114. The determination flag is a flag for determining the ball clogging of the discharge passage HT from the large winning opening 32.

If the determination flag is not stored, the determination flag is stored in step S603. In the following step S604, a process of inputting "100" (0.2 sec) to the determination counters provided in the various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is executed. The determination counter is a counter for determining ball jam, and is a counter that is decremented by 1 each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 14) is activated. After executing the process of step S604, the present determination process is terminated.

If the game ball is not detected in step S601, the process proceeds to step S605, and it is determined whether or not the determination counter is "0". If it is not "0", the present determination process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is "0", the presence or absence of the determination flag is confirmed in step S606, if it is not stored, that state is maintained, and if it is stored, a process of erasing it is executed. After that, the process for this determination is terminated. That is, the judgment counter is not "0" until a predetermined time (0.2 sec) elapses after the prize is detected by the prize sensor 32a for the large prize opening, and the judgment counter is changed when the predetermined time elapses. It becomes "0". Then, if the determination counter is "0" in the situation where the winning is not detected, the determination flag is deleted. In this case, it is not determined that the ball is jammed in this determination process.

On the other hand, in the situation where the winning to the large winning opening 32 is detected in step S601 and the judgment flag is stored in step S602, the judgment counter is set to "0" in step S607. Determine if it exists. If it is not "0", the present determination process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the determination counter is "0", it is determined in step S608 whether or not the winning counter PC is "3" or less. As described above, the winning counter PC is a counter for grasping the upper limit number of winnings in each round in the open / close execution mode. The case of "3" or less means that, for example, in the open / close execution mode, 7 or more prizes are generated out of the 10 maximum prizes in the round in this round. In this case, it is considered that seven or more game balls are held in the discharge passage HT. If an affirmative determination is made in step S608, it is determined in step S609 whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. That is, the case where the affirmative determination is made in step S608 may be other than the opening / closing execution mode (winning counter PC = 0). If the open / close execution mode is in progress, the present determination process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, if the winning counter PC is "4" or more, or if the winning counter PC is "3" or less except in the open / close execution mode, the ball jam notification process is executed in step S610. , Ends this determination process. In the ball jam notification process, a command indicating that the ball is jammed with a high possibility of ball jam is output to the effect control device 82. The effect control device 82 controls the display control device 212 so as to notify that the ball is jammed, for example, to generate a warning sound from the speaker unit 64 or to display that the ball is jammed. ..

That is, as described above, in the determination of the ball jam state, if the detection state of the prize opening sensor 32a for the large winning opening continues for a predetermined period other than during the open / close execution mode, the ball jam state is determined. On the other hand, in the open / close execution mode, even if the detection state of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening continues for a predetermined period, seven or more game balls are held in the discharge passage HT. If there is, the configuration is such that it is not determined that the ball is jammed. This is because, in the discharge passage HT, as the number of the game balls held increases, the distance between the place where the last entered game ball is held and the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening becomes shorter, and the game ball This is due to the fact that there is a high possibility that the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening will continue to be detected for a predetermined period depending on the behavior. By doing so, false detection of a ball jam state is suitably avoided.

By the way, when the round is completed and the game balls are discharged from the discharge passage HT, the situation where seven or more game balls are held in the discharge passage HT is resolved. Then, when the round ends and the next round starts, "10" is input to the winning counter PC again. In other words, if the detection state of the winning sensor 32a for the big winning opening continues even though the round is over (even though the winning counter PC is newly set). , It is highly possible that the discharge between rounds was not done well. In such a case, a negative determination is made in step S608, the process proceeds to step S610, and a ball jam notification process is performed.

Further, in the final round of the open / close execution mode, although the winning counter PC is not reset, a negative determination is made in step S609, and in this case as well, the ball jam notification process is performed.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be obtained.

In the variable winning unit 151, a discharging door 175 is provided in the discharging passage HT from the large winning opening 32. As a result, it becomes possible to hold the game ball in the discharge passage HT, and when the game ball is full in the discharge passage HT, the subsequent game ball cannot win a prize in the large winning opening 32. By doing so, it is possible to create a situation in which the game ball cannot enter, as well as opening and closing the large winning opening 32 (switching control of the guide member 162).

The passage length of the discharge passage HT was set so that the number of pieces that can be held in the discharge passage HT is the upper limit winning number of the round. Specifically, when the game ball is held in the discharge passage HT in a situation where the discharge door 175 is closed, it is on the upstream side of the tenth upper limit winning number and is received by the receiving portion 163. The position of the door portion 165 was set so as to be arranged on the downstream side of the center of the eleventh game ball. As a result, when the discharge passage HT is full with a game ball, a prize is generated for the maximum number of prizes in the round, and the prize is won in the prize holder 32 before the prize holder 32 is closed. Can be avoided. Therefore, it is possible to avoid an event in which a game ball exceeding the maximum number of winnings wins in the large winning opening 32 in each round.

Here, if a prize that exceeds the maximum number of prizes in each round can be generated, a prize that can be obtained in each round depending on whether or not the prize exceeds the maximum number of prizes. The sphere will make a difference. Therefore, it is considered that the player will be pleased if a prize is generated that exceeds the maximum number of prizes in each round. However, if there is a difference in the prize balls obtained as described above, the benefits obtained by one big hit will be different depending on the player, which is not preferable from the viewpoint of ensuring the fairness of the game. In addition, as a gaming hall or a manufacturer, it is necessary to determine a sales policy and design a gaming machine in consideration of the fact that winnings exceeding the maximum number of winnings will occur, and as a result, there are few benefits that players can obtain. It is thought that it will become difficult to obtain benefits. Then, in a configuration in which a prize exceeding the maximum number of prizes can be generated, it can be said that there is a possibility that the player may be disadvantaged by going around. Therefore, if the variable winning unit 151 as in the present embodiment is used, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged because the configuration is such that the winning number exceeding the upper limit winning number cannot be generated.

When the guiding member 162 of the guiding mechanism 161 changes from the non-inducing state to the guiding state, it is possible to win a prize in the large winning opening 32, and when the discharge door 175 is closed and changed to the non-inducing state, the large winning opening 32 becomes available. The prize cannot be won and the discharge door 175 is opened. By doing so, the discharge passage HT has a function of holding the game ball won from the big prize opening 32 while ensuring the function of discharging the game ball won from the big winning opening 32. Can be done.

The displacement of the discharge door 175 is configured to be caused by the displacement of the guiding member 162 in the guiding mechanism 161. Specifically, the discharge door 175 is displaced by controlling the variable winning drive unit 181 for causing the displacement of the guide member 162. By doing so, it is possible to simplify the configuration as compared with the configuration in which the discharge door 175 is separately provided with the drive unit. Further, if the discharge door 175 is also operated based on the operation of the door portion 165 as in the present embodiment, not only the drive unit can be standardized, but also the drive timing and the drive trigger can be common. It is possible to make it easier for the player to understand whether or not to enter the ball and the timing of ejection.

By providing the return prevention valve 178 at the entrance of the discharge passage HT, the game ball that has won the big prize opening 32 collides with the game ball held in the discharge passage HT, for example, and a big prize is won from the discharge passage HT. The event of being discharged through the mouth 32 is suppressed. As a result, it is suppressed that the number of pieces held in the discharge passage HT is reduced, and erroneous detection of the winning sensor 32a for the large winning opening is also suppressed.

<Second embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the setting of the waiting time between rounds in the open / close execution mode is different from that of the first embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a closing time setting process in the present embodiment. As described above, the closing time setting process is a process executed in step S515 in the large winning opening opening / closing process.

In the closing time setting process in the present embodiment, in step S701, whether or not the game times that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time was due to the first result display unit AS, that is, to the upper operating port 33. It is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode has been changed to a big hit by the winning / failing judgment based on the winning. If it is due to the first result display unit AS, “2000” (4 sec) is input to the timer counter T as the waiting time between rounds in step S702. The value input in step S702 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the time (3 sec, 10 × H) for all (10) game balls held in the discharge passage HT to be discharged. Is longer than.

On the other hand, in step S701, when the game round that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time is not the first result display unit AS but the second result display unit BS, that is, the lower operating port 34 is won. In the case of the open / close execution mode in which the jackpot is won and the shift is made based on the winning / failing determination, "1400" is input to the timer counter T as the waiting time between rounds in step S703. The value input in step S703 is longer than the time (2.7 sec, 9 × H) for ejecting 9 game balls among the game balls held in the discharge passage HT, and is equivalent to 10 balls. It is shorter than the time when the game ball is ejected. After executing the process of step S702 or step S703, the present setting process is terminated.

The relationship between the entry of the game ball during the round and the discharge of the game ball during the waiting time between the rounds in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 22.

As shown in FIG. 22A, in the opening / closing execution mode based on the game times on the AS side of the first result display unit, the waiting time T1 between rounds is discharged for 10 pieces, as in the first embodiment. Set to be longer than the time. Therefore, for example, in the Nth round, 10 game balls are won in the large winning opening 32, and are held in the discharge passage HT in the waiting time T1 from the end of the N round to the start of the N + 1 round. All (10) game balls are ejected. As a result, in the situation where the N + 1 round is started, there is no game ball held in the discharge passage HT (0 pieces are held), and 10 game balls are also won in the N + 1 round. Can be awarded a prize.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 22B, in the opening / closing execution mode based on the game times on the second result display unit BS side, the waiting time T1 between rounds is longer than the discharging time for nine pieces. It is set to be shorter than the discharge time for 10 pieces. Therefore, for example, in the Nth round, 10 game balls are won in the large winning opening 32, and are held in the discharge passage HT in the waiting time T1 from the end of the N round to the start of the N + 1 round. Only nine game balls were ejected, and one remains. As a result, in the situation where the N + 1 round is started, one game ball is held in the discharge passage HT, and in the N + 1 round, nine game balls instead of ten are won in the large winning opening 32. It is possible to make it. In other words, the setting of the maximum number of winnings (the process of inputting 10 to the PC) is not changed, and even though the maximum number of winnings in the N + 1 round is 10, substantially 9 games are played in the N + 1 round. Only balls can be won.

Next, the effect for the opening / closing execution mode in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 23. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the effect processing for the opening / closing execution mode. The effect processing for the open / close execution mode is a process activated by the MPU 242 of the effect control device 82 at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec).

In this effect processing, it is determined in step S801 whether or not it is the start timing of the round. The MPU 242 of the effect control device 82 can grasp the effect timing in the open / close execution mode by referring to the progress counter provided in the RAM 244. A numerical value similar to that of the timer counter T on the main control device 81 side is input to this progress counter, and the numerical value of the elapsed counter is decremented by 1 every predetermined cycle as in the timer counter T. By the way, from the main control device 81, commands including the information input to the timer counter T are output at various timings in the open / close execution mode (timing of opening start, round start, standby time start, ending start, etc.). Will be done. Based on the command, the effect control device 82 inputs a numerical value to the progress counter in the same manner as the timer counter T.

When it is the start timing of the round in step S801, various devices are controlled so as to execute the round effect in step S802. The round effect is, for example, a video effect that congratulates the open / close execution mode, and for example, the player can grasp the current number of rounds and the symbol stopped at the game round that triggered the transition of the open / close execution mode. It is a production in which various information is displayed. After executing the process of step S802, the present effect process is terminated.

If it is not the start timing of the round in step S801, it is possible that the round is in progress. In this case, it is determined in step S803 whether or not the maximum number of winning rounds has been won. In addition, each time a prize is detected in the large prize opening 32 in step S509 on the main control device 81 side, a command to that effect is output to the effect control device 82, so that the effect control device 82 receives a large prize. It becomes possible to grasp the winning of the mouth 32. Further, if the effect control device 82 is also provided with a counter similar to the winning counter PC and is configured to update the counter at the start of the round or at the time of receiving the command at the time of the above winning, the current number of winnings is obtained. , And the fact that the upper limit winning number has been reached can be grasped on the effect control device 82 side as well.

If the upper limit winning number has not been won in step S803, it is determined in step S804 whether or not the upper limit opening time of the round has elapsed. If an affirmative determination is made in either step S803 or step S804, a standby effect for the waiting time between rounds is set in step S805, and the present effect process ends. The standby effect is, for example, a video effect indicating that a prize is not generated in the large winning opening 32, and the player can grasp information such as how many rounds the next round is to be started. It is a production in which the display is performed.

Negative determination is made in step S803 and step S804, and if neither of the conditions for ending the round is satisfied, it is determined in step S806 whether or not nine prizes have been won. When nine prizes are awarded, in step S807, it is determined whether or not the current round is the second round or later, that is, whether or not it is the second to fifteenth rounds. If it is the second round or later, in step S808, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode this time is based on the game times of the first result display unit AS.

It is based on the game times of the second result display unit BS, not the first result display unit AS, and when nine prizes are generated in the second and subsequent rounds, as described above, the maximum number of winning balls This is a case where the winning of the large winning opening 32 is restricted even though the winning of is not generated. In this case, in step S809, after setting the specific effect, the present effect process ends. The specific effect is, for example, a video effect having a story, and the longer it continues, the more advantageous information the player can obtain (for example, a rare image is displayed, rare image data can be acquired, etc.). It is a directing. In the present embodiment, when the specific effect occurs a plurality of times (for example, when it occurs in each round after the second round), the previous effect is inherited.

If nine prizes have not been won in step S806, if it is the first round in step S807, or if the opening / closing execution mode is based on the game times of the first result display unit AS in step S808, step S810 After executing other processing in, the present production processing is terminated. In other processes, for example, an effect for opening or ending is set, or a process for executing a so-called promotion effect for notifying after the fact that the game state after the open / close execution mode becomes a high probability mode is performed. do.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, by changing the length of the waiting time between rounds, the number of pieces discharged during the waiting time is changed, and the setting of the maximum number of winnings during the round is changed. It is possible to change the actual maximum number of winnings without any problem.

Even when the actual number of winnings is changed in this way, the passage length of the discharge passage HT does not change. That is, it is possible to change the number of pieces that can be stored in the discharge passage HT only by adjusting the waiting time, and it is possible to change the actual number of winning prizes with a simple configuration.

By setting the waiting time between rounds to be shorter than the discharge time of the maximum number of winnings, there will be game balls that have not yet been discharged to the discharge passage HT at the start of the next round. In the round, the number of balls that can be entered is substantially reduced by the amount of the game balls that have not been discharged yet. By doing so, it is possible to change the number of prizes won during the round in the open / close execution mode and change the prize balls obtained.

Here, as shown in the first embodiment, the probability of winning a big hit is the same in the first result display unit AS and the second result display unit BS, and a common distribution table is used. It is configured to be. On the other hand, the prize balls obtained in the open / close execution mode are different between the first result display unit AS and the second result display unit BS. Specifically, in the big hit in the first result display unit AS, it can be expected that 15 rounds x 10 = 150 game balls will be won in the big winning opening 32. On the other hand, in the big hit in the second result display unit BS, one round x 10 + 14 rounds x 9 = 136 game balls can be expected to win in the large prize opening 32, which is higher than that of the first result display unit AS. few. By doing so, it is possible to make the advantage of the jackpot result different regardless of the probability of winning or failing lottery, the distribution of the type of jackpot result, and the like, and it is possible to realize a new playability.

In the open / close execution mode based on the game times of the second result display unit BS, if nine prizes are won in the second and subsequent rounds, the subsequent prizes are restricted. Then, since the end condition such as reaching the upper limit winning number is not satisfied, the round continues until the upper limit opening time elapses. In this case, a specific effect is performed as an effect during the open / close execution mode. The specific production is such that the more it continues, the more advantageous benefits are given to the player. That is, in the second and subsequent rounds, the earlier the nine prizes are won, the longer the time during which the specific effect is performed, and the more advantageous the privilege is given to the player based on the specific effect. By doing so, it is possible to make it meaningful to win 9 prizes at an early stage, and it is possible to eliminate the waiting time during the round.

<Third embodiment>
The game board 24 of the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of variable winning units 151. FIG. 24 is a front view of the game board 24 in this embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the first variable winning unit 201 and the second variable winning unit 202 are provided in the right region PE3 of the game board 24. The first variable winning unit 201 and the second variable winning unit 202 both have the same structure as the variable winning unit 151.

The first variable winning unit 201 is arranged on the upstream side of the second variable winning unit 202, so that the passing area TE of the first variable winning unit 201 and the passing area TE of the second variable winning unit 202 overlap each other. Is located in.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the large winning opening opening process in the present embodiment. The large winning opening opening process is executed in step S504 in the large winning opening opening / closing process (FIG. 18).

In step S901, it is determined whether or not the round counter RC is an odd number. When the round counter RC is an odd number, the first variable winning unit 201 is opened in step S902, and when the round counter RC is an even number, the second variable winning unit 202 is opened in step S903. Make it open. After executing the process of step S902 or step S903, the main release process is terminated.

That is, in the present embodiment, each round in the open / close execution mode is alternately executed by the first variable winning unit 201 and the second variable winning unit 202.

Although detailed description by the figure is omitted, in the closing time setting process (step S515) in the present embodiment, a numerical value smaller than the numerical value input in the first embodiment, specifically, “0” is input. .. That is, instead of setting the interval time so that the time required for all the game balls held in the discharge passage HT to be discharged is longer than the time required for all the game balls held in the discharge passage HT as in the first embodiment, the discharge time is set. A time shorter than the time required for the operation, more specifically, 0 sec is set. This will start the next round (immediately) in a shorter time after the end of one round. The interval time may be shorter than the time required for all the game balls to be ejected (10 × H).

The relationship between the entry of the game ball during the round and the discharge of the game ball during the waiting time between the rounds in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 26.

In the Nth round in which the round counter RC is an odd number, the first variable winning unit 201 is opened as shown in FIG. 26A. In this case, 10 game balls can be held in the discharge passage HT in the first variable winning unit 201, and in the Nth round, winnings corresponding to the maximum number of winnings in the round are generated. As mentioned above, the following N + 1th round starts immediately after the Nth round ends. In the N + 1th round, as shown in FIG. 26B, the second variable winning unit 202 is in the open state. Ten game balls can be held in the discharge passage HT in the second variable winning unit 202, and in the N + 1th round, winnings corresponding to the maximum number of winnings in the round are generated. Further, since the N + 1th round is executed by the second variable winning unit 202, the game ball of the discharge passage HT is discharged on the first variable winning unit 201 side which is closed in the N + 1th round. .. Then, before the end of the N + 1th round, the ejection of the winning game ball in the Nth round is completed. When the N + 1th round is completed and the subsequent N + 2nd round is executed on the first variable winning unit 201 side, no game ball remains in the discharge passage HT in the first variable winning unit 201, and the N + 2 round Even in the eyes, winnings for the maximum number of winnings in the round can occur. While the N + 2nd round is being executed, the game ball on the side of the second variable winning unit 202, which is in the closed state, is discharged.

As described above, in the present embodiment, a plurality of variable winning units 201 and 202 that can win a prize by being discharged are provided, and these are alternately used to execute each round. It is possible to perform a round in the other unit while the discharge is being performed in one unit, and it is possible to realize quicker round digestion.

These plurality of variable winning units 201 and 202 are arranged vertically so that the passing region TE overlaps vertically. As a result, if the game ball is launched by aiming at one unit, the game ball can reach the other unit, and the rounds executed alternately are digested without changing the launch mode of the game ball. Is possible.

When the above configuration is applied to a configuration in which the winning of the large winning opening 32 is restricted in a state where the maximum number of winnings is not generated as in the second embodiment, the following may be used.

That is, the first round and the second round, which is the next round, are performed by the same unit (first variable winning unit 201) as a predetermined round in the open / close execution mode. Further, the interval (closing time) between the first round and the second round is larger than the product of the ejection time (H) of one game ball and the upper limit winning number (10) as in the second embodiment. It is set to be short and longer than the product of the discharge time (H) and the number (9) obtained by subtracting a predetermined number (1) from the upper limit winning number. After that, the third round is performed by a unit on the side different from the second round (second variable winning unit 202), and thereafter, the rounds are alternately executed by each unit.

In this way, in the second round, the winning of the game ball is restricted before the winning of the game ball of the maximum winning number is generated. Here, in such a situation, while the winning to the large winning opening 32 is restricted, the receiving portion 163 is in a state of standing forward from the game board 24 and receives the game ball passing through the passing area TE. Is in a possible state.

Then, as shown in FIG. 27, in the Nth round in which a maximum of 9 pieces can be won in the large winning opening 32, the 10th large winning opening 32 is not won as described above (FIG. 27). 27 (a)) If the first variable winning unit 201 is aimed at, it is possible to make the receiving portion 163 of the unit 201 receive the game ball. Then, as shown in FIG. 27 (c1), a large number of game balls stay in the receiving portion 163 until the upper limit opening time elapses.

After the upper limit opening time of the Nth round has elapsed, the second variable winning unit 202 is opened in the next N + 1th round (FIG. 27 (b)). Further, at the end of the Nth round, the first variable winning unit 201 is closed, and the receiving portion 163 is switched to the non-guidance state so as to be parallel to the game board 24. Then, as shown in FIG. 26 (c2), the game ball received by the receiving portion 163 of the first variable winning unit 201 will fall toward the second variable winning unit 202 as it is. When the second variable winning unit 202 is opened, it becomes possible to receive a game ball falling from the first variable winning unit 201, and the received game ball wins a prize from the large winning opening 32.

As a result, as shown in FIGS. 27 (b) and 27 (c3), in the N + 1th round, the maximum number of winnings is awarded at an early stage for the game balls remaining in the first variable winning unit 201. Will be done. More specifically, the N + 1th round ends in a time shorter than the product of the maximum number of winnings (10) and the firing cycle of the game ball (0.6sec). Become.

By ending the N + 1th round early as described above, the next N + 2nd round is started on the first variable winning unit 201 side before the discharge of the game ball in the Nth round is completed. become. That is, for example, when 10 prizes are generated in the second variable winning unit 202 in the N + 1th round at the timing when one game ball is not discharged in the discharge passage HT of the first variable winning unit 201, the first The N + 1th round ends and the N + 2nd round starts with one remaining in the discharge passage HT of the variable winning unit 201 (FIG. 27 (c4)). As a result, even in the N + 2nd round, the maximum number of game balls won not be awarded to the first variable winning unit 201, and the game balls are received by the receiving unit 163 on the first variable winning unit 201 side and a large prize is awarded. There will be a situation where no prize is awarded to the mouth 32. Then, in the N + 3rd round, it is possible to finish the N + 3rd round at an early stage as in the N + 1th round.

By doing so, it is possible to finish the next round at an early stage by using the game balls reserved in the receiving portion 163 while realizing the round in which the maximum number of winnings does not occur. Therefore, as in the second embodiment, in the configuration in which the advantage is changed by utilizing the closing time of the opening / closing execution mode, rapid digestion of the opening / closing execution mode can also be realized.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the winning / failing table used for the winning / failing lottery and the sorting table used for the sorting determination of the jackpot result are different from each of the above embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a pass / fail table in this embodiment.

In the present embodiment, both the hit / fail table for the low probability mode (FIG. 28 (a)) and the hit / fail table for the high probability mode (FIG. 28 (b)) are out of order other than the value of the random number that wins the jackpot. As a result, a special deviation result and a normal deviation result are set.

In the normal out-of-order result that occurs with a relatively high probability when the out-of-order result is obtained, the opening / closing execution mode is not shifted, and the winning / failing lottery mode and the support mode are not changed.

On the other hand, in the case of the special deviation result that occurs with a relatively low probability when the deviation result is obtained, the special deviation state is obtained. In the special out-of-order state, the open / close execution mode is entered in the situation where the out-of-order result is obtained in the winning / failing lottery. Further, after the end of the open / close execution mode, the transition between the win / fail lottery mode and the support mode does not occur.

In the open / close execution mode based on the special deviation result, one round of open / close execution mode is executed. In the open / close execution mode, the open / close control of the variable winning unit 151 is performed four times during one round.

FIG. 29 is a distribution table in this embodiment.

As the distribution table, a distribution table for the first result display unit of FIG. 29 (a) and a distribution table for the second result display unit of FIG. 29 (b) are set.

In the distribution table for the first result display unit, as shown in FIG. 29A, the distribution destination of the game result is a normal jackpot result, an unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result, an explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result, and a 15R probability variation jackpot. The result is set. Of these, the normal jackpot results are as described in each of the above embodiments, and the 15R probability variation jackpot results correspond to the probability variation jackpot results in each of the above embodiments. These normal jackpot results and 15R probability variation jackpot results are jackpot results in which the opening / closing execution mode of 15 rounds is executed as described above.

The unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the open / close execution mode for two rounds is executed, and after the open / close execution mode ends, the win / fail lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the low frequency support mode. be. In each round in the opening / closing execution mode of the two rounds, the opening / closing control is performed twice by the variable winning unit 151.

The explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the open / close execution mode for two rounds is executed, and after the open / close execution mode ends, the win / fail lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode. .. The high-frequency support mode continues until the lottery result in the winning / losing lottery becomes a big hit state and the state shifts to the big hit state. Similar to the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result, in each round in the opening / closing execution mode of the two rounds, the opening / closing control is performed twice by the variable winning unit 151.

In the distribution table for the first result display unit, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 9" corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and "10 to 14" is not specified. It corresponds to the 2R probability variation jackpot result, "15-19" corresponds to the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result, and "20-29" corresponds to the 15R probability variation jackpot result.

As described above, since the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result and the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result are set as the probability variation jackpot results, the modes of the probability variation jackpot results are diversified. That is, when comparing the three types of probability variation jackpot results, the degree of advantage for the player is that the 15R probability variation jackpot result is the highest, the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is the next highest, and the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result is the lowest. As a result, the monotonousness of the game can be suppressed, and the degree of attention to the game can be increased.

On the other hand, in the distribution table for the second result display unit, as shown in FIG. 29 (b), only the normal jackpot result and the 15R probability variation jackpot result are set as the distribution destinations of the game results. Then, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 9" corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and "10 to 29" corresponds to the 15R probability variation jackpot result.

Here, the opening / closing mode of the variable winning unit 151 in the opening / closing execution mode is common between the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result and the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result and the special deviation result. That is, in each 2R probability variation jackpot result, the opening / closing execution mode of two rounds is performed, and the opening / closing control is performed twice in each round. On the other hand, in the special off result, one round of open / close execution mode is performed, and in the one round, open / close control is performed four times, and the number of open / close controls is common. In addition, the opening duration at each opening and the closing duration at the time of closing are common to the 2R probability variation jackpot result and the special deviation result.

By setting the special deviation result and the 2R probability variation jackpot result as described above, the opening of the jackpot 32 of the variable winning unit 151 can be used as an effect. Here, if a special deviation result is obtained, only the opening / closing execution mode in which the opening / closing is executed four times is entered, and then the game state before the opening / closing execution mode is restored. On the other hand, when the above-mentioned unspecified 2R probability change jackpot result occurs, the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode in which four times of opening are executed, and after that, the support mode is the low frequency support mode, but the winning / fail lottery mode. Is in high probability mode. Then, the occurrence of the special deviation result and the occurrence of the unspecified 2R probability change jackpot result are common in that the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode with the same number of open times and the support mode becomes low frequency support thereafter, and the difference between the two. In the former, the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the low probability mode, whereas in the latter, it becomes the high probability mode. That is, the occurrence of the special deviation result and the occurrence of the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result are common to the behavior of each movable object such as the behavior of the variable winning unit 151 and the behavior of the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34, and an internal lottery. Only the state will be different. As a result, when the open / close execution mode in which the opening is performed four times occurs, it becomes possible to imagine whether or not the winning / failing lottery mode has subsequently shifted to the high-probability mode, and the degree of attention to the game can be increased. It will be possible to increase.

In each game, the stop result displayed when the special deviation result and the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result are displayed on the display screen G will be a common stop result (for example, 3.4.1). It has been set. As a result, even from the stop result of the game times executed on the display screen G, the player cannot grasp which game result the player has shifted to the open / close execution mode.

Further, as for the effect in the open / close execution mode, a common effect is executed in the open / close execution mode based on the special deviation result and the open / close execution mode based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result. Therefore, the player cannot grasp which game result-based opening / closing execution mode is based on not only the opening / closing mode in the opening / closing execution mode but also the effect mode.

However, the stop result in the main display unit 43, which is a display unit smaller than the display screen G, is set so as to be different from the special deviation result and the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result. Therefore, for example, when the manager of the game hall wants to know which game result the opening / closing execution mode is based on, it is possible to know.

Incidentally, the stop result of the game times on the display screen G based on the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result and the stop result on the main display unit 43 are set to be different from the special deviation result and the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result. Further, the effect of the opening / closing execution mode based on the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is also set to be different from the effect of the opening / closing execution mode based on the special deviation result or the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result.

The processing of the open / close execution mode performed by using the pass / fail table and the distribution table as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 30 to 32.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the start processing of the round display in the present embodiment. The round display start process is a process executed in step S405 in the game state transition process (FIG. 17).

In step S1001, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode started this time is based on the jackpot result of 15R (normal jackpot result or 15R probability variation jackpot result). If an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, "15" is input to the round counter RC in step S1002 to start the display of the round display unit RS, and then the round display start process ends.

If a negative determination is made in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode started this time in step S1003 is based on the special deviation result. The case of making a negative judgment in step S1003 means that the current open / close execution mode is based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result or the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result. In this case, the round counter RC is set in step S1004. After inputting "2" to start the display of the round display unit RS, the round display start process ends. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1003, "1" is input to the round counter RC in step S1005 to start the display of the round display unit RS, and then the round display start process ends.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a large winning opening opening / closing process in the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment, similarly to the above steps S501 to S504, a process for opening the large winning opening 32 is performed in steps S1101 to S1104. In step S1105, it is determined whether or not the open counter OC provided in the various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is “0”. The open counter OC is a counter for the MPU 112 to grasp the number of times the large winning opening 32 is opened in one round.

The case where the open counter OC is "0" is the start of the round, and in this case, it is determined in step S1106 whether or not the current opening / closing execution mode is based on the jackpot result of 15R. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1106, "1" is input to the open counter OC in step S1107, and "15000" is input to the timer counter T in step S1108. Then, in step S1109, "10" is input to the winning counter PC. That is, in the opening / closing execution mode based on the jackpot result of 15R, the jackpot 32 is opened once in each round, and the opening time of each opening continues up to 30 sec.

If it is determined in step S1106 that it is not based on the jackpot result of 15R, it is determined in step S1110 whether it is based on the special deviation result. If it is not based on the special deviation result, "2" is input to the open counter OC in step S1111. If it is based on the special deviation result, "4" is input to the open counter OC in step S1112. Then, in step S1113, "1400" is input to the timer counter T. After that, in step S1109, "10" is input to the winning counter PC. If the open counter OC is not "0" in step S1105, "1400" is input to the timer counter T in step S1114.

That is, in the open / close execution mode based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result, the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result, and the special deviation result, the big winning opening 32 is opened twice in each round in any of the 2R probability variation jackpot results, and once. The opening time continues up to 2.8 sec. On the other hand, in the special off result, the big winning opening 32 is opened four times in one round, and one opening time is continued up to 2.8 sec.

After executing the process of step S1109 or step S1114, the open command is set in step S1115, and then the large winning opening opening / closing process is terminated.

If it is determined in step S1101 that the large winning opening 32 is being opened, the process for closing the large winning opening 32 is executed in steps S1116 to S1120 in the same manner as in steps S508 to S512. In step S1121, as an update process of the open counter OC, a process of subtracting 1 from the open counter OC is executed. In the following step S1122, it is determined whether or not the open counter OC is "0". If it is "0", a process of subtracting 1 from the round counter RC is executed as an update process of the round counter RC in step S1123. Then, in step S1124, it is determined whether or not the round counter RC is “0”.

If a negative determination is made in step S1122 or step S1124, the closing time setting process is executed in step S1125. In the closing time setting process in the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 32, in step S1201, it is determined whether or not the opening / closing execution mode this time is based on the jackpot result of 15R, and the jackpot of 15R is determined. If it is based on the result, "2000" is input to the timer counter T in step S1202. If it is not based on the jackpot result of 15R, "100" is input to the timer counter T in step S1203. After executing the process of step S1202 or step S1203, the present setting process is terminated.

The value input in step S1203 corresponds to 0.2 sec, which is shorter than the period (H = 0.3 sec) required for one game ball to be ejected from the discharge passage HT. Therefore, in the open / close execution mode based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result, the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result, and the special deviation result, the variable winning unit is set in the waiting time between rounds and the waiting time between 1 opening and 1 opening during the round. Even if 151 is closed, the game ball is not discharged from the discharge passage HT.

After executing the process of step S1125, the closing command is set in step S1126, and then the large winning opening opening / closing process is terminated. If the round counter RC is "0" in step S1124, the processes of steps S1127 and S1128 are executed, and then the large winning opening opening / closing process is terminated. The processing of step S1127 and step S1128 is the same as the processing of step S517 and step S518.

The mode of opening / closing control of the variable winning unit 151 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35.

In the present embodiment, as the waiting time between rounds, the waiting time (T1) which is the long-time mode shown in FIG. 33 (a) and the waiting time (the waiting time) which is the short-time mode shown in FIG. 33 (b). T2) and is set. The waiting time (T1), which is a long-time mode, is the same as the waiting time in each of the above embodiments, and is the period (H) required for one game ball to be discharged from the discharge passage HT and the upper limit winning number (10). It is set to be longer than the product of and.

On the other hand, the standby time (T2), which is a short-time mode, is set to be shorter than the discharge time (H) for one piece. Further, as shown in FIG. 33 (c), the closing time (single closing time, T3) between 1 opening and 1 opening during the round is also shorter than the discharging time (H) for one piece. Is set to. Therefore, as described above, the game ball is not discharged from the discharge passage HT during the waiting time (T2) or the single closing time (T3), which is a short-time mode.

As described above, the opening / closing mode of the variable winning unit 151 is common between the opening / closing execution mode based on any of the 2R probability variation jackpot results and the opening / closing execution mode based on the special deviation result. Since the discharge from the discharge passage HT does not occur in the waiting time (T2, T3) between the 1st opening and the 1st opening, the actual upper limit winning number is 10 in these opening / closing execution modes.

As shown in FIG. 34 (a), in the open / close execution mode based on any of the 2R probability variation jackpot results, two rounds of opening each are executed, and the upper limit winning number (10) is set in each round. Will be done. That is, while the actual maximum number of winnings through the open / close execution mode is 10, the maximum number of winnings in each round is set twice, and the maximum number of winnings in the setting is different from the actual maximum number of winnings. do. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 34 (b), in the open / close execution mode based on the special deviation result, four rounds of opening are executed once, so that the actual maximum number of winnings through the open / close execution mode is one round. It is the same as the maximum number of winnings.

Due to such a difference, it is possible to make the closing timing of the variable winning unit 151 different. First, in the open / close execution mode based on the 2R probability variation jackpot result shown in FIG. 35 (a), the game is played in the first round performed from the timing of ta to the timing of tb and the second round performed from the timing of tk to the timing of td. The case where each ball enters will be described. In this case, when the game ball enters at the timing of t1 to t10, the game ball held in the discharge passage HT also increases according to the entry. On the other hand, for example, if the first round ends (tb) after the sixth game ball wins at the timing of t6, and the second round starts at the timing of tc, the upper limit of the second round is reached. The number of winnings will be reset. Then, the game ball that wins at the timing of t7 after the start of the second round is the seventh game ball held in the discharge passage HT, but is the first as the number of prizes in the second round. Will be a prize. Therefore, even if the tenth game ball wins a prize through the opening / closing execution mode at the timing of t10 and the discharge passage HT becomes full, the number of winnings in the second round is four. The maximum number of winnings in the second round has not been reached. In this case, after the timing of t10, the large winning opening 32 cannot be won, but the variable winning unit 151 is maintained in the open state, and the variable winning unit 151 is at the timing of td when the upper limit opening time elapses. Will be closed.

On the other hand, in the opening / closing execution mode based on the special deviation result, as shown in FIG. 35B, there is no difference between the number of winnings through the opening / closing execution mode and the number of winnings in one round. That is, in the open / close execution mode started from the timing of ta, when the ball enters at the timing of t1 to t10, the game ball held in the discharge passage HT also increases according to the ball entry. Then, when the tenth winning ball, which is the upper limit winning number, occurs at the timing of t10, the variable winning unit 151 is closed at the timing of te based on the winning ball, and the open / close execution mode ends.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the maximum number of winnings is obtained in the opening / closing execution mode in which the opening / closing mode in the opening / closing execution mode for setting the opening time and the closing time is common, that is, the 2R probability variation jackpot result and the special deviation result. It is possible to make the closing timing of the variable winning unit 151 different depending on the difference such as whether or not the resetting is performed. By doing so, even in the opening / closing execution mode in which the opening / closing mode set by the gaming machine side is common, it is possible to make the opening / closing mode different by generating a prize, and it is possible to realize a novel game playability. ..

In particular, among the above 2R probability variation jackpot results, the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result and the special deviation result have the same stop result of each game and the effect mode in the open / close execution mode. Therefore, the player cannot grasp which game result-based opening / closing execution mode is based on the effect mode or the initial opening / closing mode. On the other hand, if it is an open / close execution mode based on an unspecified 2R probability change jackpot result, the winning / fail lottery mode after the open / close execution mode is set to a high probability mode, and if it is an open / close execution mode based on a special deviation result, the open / close execution mode is concerned. The win / fail lottery mode after the execution mode inherits the win / fail lottery mode before the open / close execution mode. Therefore, as a player, the game can be played with the expectation that it will be in the high probability mode after the open / close execution mode (that is, the game is played with the expectation that the result is an unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot). Diversification is being planned. Then, in the present embodiment, it is possible to grasp which game result-based opening / closing execution mode is obtained by generating 10 prizes during the opening / closing execution mode. That is, if 10 prizes are generated and the variable prize unit 151 is closed, the open / close execution mode is based on the special deviation result, and 10 prizes are generated and the variable prize unit 151 is closed. If not, the open / close execution mode is based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result. In this way, by making it possible for the player to grasp which result is obtained depending on whether or not the player wins a prize, there are cases where he / she wants to enjoy predicting the high / low of the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode and when he / she wants to know at an early stage. , It becomes possible to let the player select, and the game can be diversified.

In this case, the number of prizes that the player can win is 10 regardless of whether the result is an unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result or a special loss result, and the benefits obtained are the same. In other words, it is possible to diversify the game within the range that does not make a difference in the player's advantage, only the difference is whether or not the height of the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode can be known first. Will be.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the arrangement of the variable winning unit 151 is different from each of the above embodiments. FIG. 36A is a front view showing the game board 24 in this embodiment.

The variable winning unit 151 (referred to as the third variable winning unit 204 in the following description) in the present embodiment is arranged so that the receiving portion 163 extends in the vertical direction. Then, a special entry portion 26 is provided on the side opposite to the receiving portion 163 with the large winning opening 32 sandwiched in the left-right direction and on the downstream side of the large winning opening 32, on which a game ball can enter. When a game ball enters the special entry section 26, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls is paid out.

In this embodiment, even if a ball enters the special ball entry unit 26, a lottery such as a big hit determination is not performed. However, even if a lottery is performed based on the entry into the special entry section 26, for example, whether or not a predetermined privilege (occurrence of a big hit state, transition to a high probability mode, etc.) is given to the player. good.

As shown in FIG. 36 (a), when the game ball is launched so as to flow down the right side region PE3, and the third variable winning unit 204 is in the non-guided state, the receiving portion 163 is the game board 24. The game ball flows down so as to pass through the passing region TE (route R1). On the other hand, when the variable winning drive unit 181 in the third variable winning unit 204 is driven and controlled to change from the non-inductive state to the guided state, the game ball flowing down the right region PE3 is moved to the large winning opening 32 by the receiving unit 163. Be guided (Route R2).

In this case, as in the second embodiment, if the waiting time between rounds is shorter than the product of the upper limit winning number of rounds and the time required for ejection, the game balls remaining in the ejection passage HT By the minute, the number of winnings in the next round will decrease. Then, in the next round, from the time when the discharge passage HT is full to the time when the upper limit opening time elapses, the large winning opening 32 is not won, but the round continues. ..

If the game ball is launched so as to flow down the right region PE3 until the above-mentioned full tank state is reached and the upper limit opening time elapses during the round, the game ball is received by the receiving portion 163 and is large. You will be guided to the winning opening 32. However, as described above, it is not possible to enter the large winning opening 32, and the game ball falls on the opposite side of the receiving portion 163 with the large winning opening 32 in between. As described above, the special entry section 26 is arranged at the falling position, and the falling game ball enters the special entry section 26.

As a result of the above, the discharge passage HT becomes full during the round, and until the upper limit opening time elapses, it is not possible to win a prize in the large winning opening 32, while a prize is generated in the special winning section 26. It becomes easier to do. As a result, it is possible to realize a novel game in which the longer the period until the upper limit opening time elapses, the more the prize ball based on the prize in the special ball entry unit 26 can be obtained.

Incidentally, in the present embodiment, a drive unit (discharge drive unit 191) for opening and closing the discharge door 175 is provided separately from the variable winning drive unit 181 for drive control of the guide member 162 in the guide mechanism 161. ing. The discharge drive unit 191 is connected to the main control device 81. When the discharge drive unit 191 is in the drive state, the discharge door 175 is closed, and when the discharge drive unit 191 is in the non-drive state, the discharge door 175 is opened. It becomes an open state.

FIG. 36B is a flowchart showing the discharge drive unit processing executed by the MPU 112 of the main control device 81.

In the process for the discharge drive unit, in step S1301, the drive state of the variable winning drive unit 181 is grasped, and it is determined whether or not the large winning opening 32 is in the open state. In the open state, the discharge drive unit 191 is driven and controlled in step S1302 to close the discharge door 175. When the large winning opening 32 is closed in step S1301, the discharge drive unit 191 is driven and controlled in step S1303 to open the discharge door 175. After executing the process of step S1302 or step S1303, the main drive process is terminated.

In this way, even if a drive unit for opening and closing the large winning opening 32 (variable winning driving unit 181) is provided separately from the driving unit for opening and closing the large winning opening 32, the driving unit for the discharge door 175 is provided based on the opening and closing of the large winning opening 32. If the discharge door 175 is opened and closed, the opening and closing timing of the discharge door 175 is clarified, and the transparency of the game is guaranteed.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, a new situation occurs when the next round is started in a situation where the game ball held in the discharge passage HT is not discharged and remains. Achieves playability. That is, even if 10 game balls are held in the discharge passage HT and no more balls are entered, the round continues and the receiving portion 163 is held in the guided state. The special entry section 26 is arranged at a position where a game ball that has been received by the section 163 and has been guided to the large winning opening 32 and has not won the big winning opening 32 can easily win a prize. This makes it possible to generate a prize for the special ball-entry section 26 in the above situation.

In the above embodiment, 10 prize balls are obtained by winning a prize in the special ball entry unit 26, so that the number of balls held can be expected to increase in the above specific situation. By doing so, if a specific situation occurs as soon as possible in the open / close execution mode, the player can obtain more prize balls, and the player simply wins the grand prize opening 32 in the open / close execution mode. It is thought that the degree of attention to the game will be greatly increased by creating a new game different from the game such as.

It should be noted that, for example, the number of prize balls based on the winning of the special ball winning portion 26 may be one, so that the decrease in the number of game balls is suppressed although the increase in the number of balls held is not expected. By doing so, the player does not need to stop the firing of the game ball even if the above-mentioned specific situation occurs, and at least the player is prevented from losing. As a result, it is possible to prevent the stopping action of stopping the firing of the game ball.

<Sixth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, a branch for guiding the game ball is provided in a region different from the discharge port 174 side in the middle of the discharge passage HT. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an outline of the discharge passage HT in the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 37 (a), a branch passage BT capable of guiding the game ball to a region different from the discharge port 174 side is provided at an intermediate position between the large winning opening 32 and the discharge port 174 in the discharge passage HT. .. The branch passage BT is provided with a detection sensor 28 for detecting the passage of a game ball on the downstream side thereof. When the passage of the game ball is detected by the detection sensor 28, a predetermined privilege is given to the player.

In the present embodiment, as the predetermined privilege, the detection sensor 28 detects the passage of the game ball during the opening / closing execution mode, so that the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode becomes the high probability mode. .. Further, the discharge passage HT of the present embodiment has a specific number of N game balls, which is a larger number than the upper limit winning number (10) in the round of the open / close execution mode, on the downstream side of the branch point with the branch passage BT. The passage length of the discharge passage HT is set so that it can be held (FIG. 37 (b)).

With the above configuration, for example, as shown in the second embodiment, if the waiting time between rounds is shorter than the product of the discharge time (H) and the upper limit winning number (10), it is assumed. The next round starts with the game ball remaining in the discharge passage HT. In this case, in the next round, there is a high possibility that a specific number of N game balls will be held in the discharge passage HT. Then, the succeeding game balls that have won a prize in the situation where a specific number of N game balls are held are guided to the branch passage BT side by colliding with the held Nth game ball. When guided to the branch passage BT, it is detected by the detection sensor 28, and the winning / failing lottery mode after the end of the opening / closing execution mode is set to the high probability mode.

As a result, by making the waiting time between rounds different, it is possible to realize a novel game in which the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode is likely to become the high probability mode.

<7th Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, the discharge passage from another entry portion joins the discharge passage HT. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an outline of the discharge passage HT in the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 38 (a), in the present embodiment, the discharge passage from the general winning opening 31 merges with the discharge passage HT from the large winning opening 32. The discharge passage from the general winning opening 31 is configured to join on the upstream side of the branch point with the branch passage BT.

With the above configuration, when a prize is generated in the general winning opening 31 during the opening / closing execution mode, the number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT increases, and as a result, the held game balls The number of pieces tends to reach a specific number of N pieces. Then, the succeeding game ball is easily guided to the branch passage BT side, and the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode is easily set to the high probability mode.

In this case, since the discharge passage from the general winning opening 31 is configured to join on the upstream side of the branch point with the branch passage BT as described above, the game ball that has won the big winning opening 32 in the branch passage BT. Alternatively, a game ball that has won a prize in the general winning opening 31 can be guided. By doing so, in the open / close execution mode, the winning routes for being detected by the detection sensor 28 are diversified, and the playability is greatly enhanced.

In FIG. 38 (b), it is configured to join the discharge passage from the general winning opening 31 on the downstream side of the branch point to the branch passage BT. By doing so, the game ball guided to the detection sensor 28 can be limited to the game ball that has won the prize in the large winning opening 32. In other words, although the game ball won from the general winning opening 31 can be held in the discharge passage HT, the event that the game ball won from the general winning opening 31 is detected by the detection sensor 28 cannot occur.

<Eighth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the variable winning unit 151 is provided in the operating port. FIG. 39 (a) is a front view showing the game board 24 in this embodiment. Further, FIGS. 39 (b1) and 39 (b2) are vertical cross-sectional views of the operating port.

In the present embodiment, the first operating port 48 and the second operating port 49 are provided in place of the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34. The first operating port 48 is opened upward in front of the game board 24, and a game ball flowing down the game area PE can directly enter the ball. On the other hand, the second operating port 49 is arranged on the back side of the first operating port 48 (see FIGS. 39 (b1) and 39 (b2)). When the game ball wins a prize in the first operating port 48, it is detected by the first sensor 48a provided in the discharge passage HT from the first operating port 48, and the winning / failing determination is performed by an internal lottery. Further, when the game ball wins a prize in the second operating port 49, it is detected by the second sensor 49a provided in the discharge passage from the second operating port 49, and the winning / failing determination is performed by an internal lottery.

Here, in the present embodiment, there is a difference in the advantage for the player between the winning / failing determination based on the winning of the first operating port 48 and the winning / failing determination based on the winning of the second operating port 49. , The winning / failing determination based on the winning of the second operating port 49 is set to be more advantageous for the player. More specifically, for example, the probability of winning a big hit is substantially 1/200 in the winning / failing determination based on the winning of the first operating port 48, and the winning / failing determination based on the winning of the second operating port 49. Then, it is substantially reduced to about one-third.

In the present embodiment, the variable winning unit 151 is not provided with a member that opens and closes the entrance of the first operating port 48. On the other hand, at the most downstream portion of the discharge passage HT from the first operating port 48, a discharge door 175 that opens and closes the discharge port 174 is provided. The discharge door 175 is normally closed, and when a big hit is won and a transition to the open / close execution mode occurs (for example, in accordance with the control of the door whose opening / closing is controlled in the opening / closing execution mode), the discharge door 175 is opened. It is opened.

In the present embodiment, in a situation where the discharge door 175 is closed, a specific number of N (for example, 200) game balls can be held in the discharge passage HT from the first operating port 48. The passage length of the discharge passage HT is set.

With the above configuration, when the number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT does not reach the specific number N, as shown in FIG. 39 (b1), the second operating port 49 It is easier to win a prize in the first operating port 48, and a hit / fail judgment of about 1/200 is performed. When the jackpot is won by the hit / fail judgment, the player can play the game in the jackpot state (open / close execution mode), the discharge door 175 of the discharge passage HT is opened, and the game ball is released from the discharge passage HT. It is discharged.

When the result of the winning / failing determination based on the winning of the first operating port 48 is the result of being disengaged 200 times in a row, as shown in FIG. 39 (b2), the number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT is increased. It reaches a specific number of N pieces. As a result, the succeeding game balls collide with the Nth game ball of a specific number, and it becomes easy to win a prize in the second operating port 49. The winning / failing judgment based on the winning of the second operating port 49 is substantially one-third of the jackpot winning, and based on the winning, the player can play the game in the jackpot state and the discharge passage. The discharge door 175 of the HT is opened, and the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage HT. Therefore, it is possible to realize a substantial ceiling contact by utilizing the event that the game ball is held in the discharge passage HT.

<9th embodiment>
The discharge passage HT in the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of discharge doors 175.

As shown in FIG. 40, in the present embodiment, the first discharge door 175a and the second discharge door 175b are provided as the discharge door 175. The first discharge door 175a and the second discharge door 175b are provided so as to be located at different positions in the discharge passage HT, and the first discharge door 175a is arranged so as to be on the downstream side of the second discharge door 175b. Has been done. The number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT is set to differ depending on which of the discharge doors 175a and 175b limits the discharge of the game balls. The first discharge door 175a is connected to the first discharge drive unit 191a, and the second discharge door 175b is connected to the second discharge drive unit 191b. The first discharge drive unit 191a and the second discharge drive unit 191b are connected to the main control device 81, and the first discharge drive unit 191a and the second discharge drive unit 191b are connected by the MPU 112 of the main control device 81. Drive control is executed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 40 (a), in a situation where the first discharge door 175a on the downstream side is in the closed state and the second discharge door 175b on the upstream side is in the open state, the first prize opening 32 to the first. It is possible to hold the game balls in the passage length up to the discharge door 175a, and the number of the game balls held in this case is set to, for example, 10 (first number).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 40 (b), when the second discharge door 175b on the upstream side is closed, the game ball can be held in the passage length from the large winning opening 32 to the second discharge door 175b. In this case, the number of game balls to be held is set to, for example, 5 (second number), and the number of holdings is smaller than in the above case.

By using such a configuration, it is possible to easily change the number of game balls held in the discharge passage HT. In other words, the location held in the discharge passage HT can be easily changed.

When the configuration in which the game ball is held on the upstream side of the above-mentioned one discharge door is applied to, for example, the configuration of the first embodiment, the following may be used.

As shown in FIG. 40 (c), a protrusion as a second discharge door 175b is provided immediately before the first discharge door 175a. The second discharge door 175b can be displaced into a state of being buried in a recess formed in the bottom of the discharge passage HT and a state of being projected. The buried state corresponds to an open state in which the game ball can pass, and the protruding state corresponds to a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass. The distance between the second discharge door 175b and the first discharge door 175a is less than the diameter of one game ball, and the game ball is not sandwiched between the two doors 175a and 175b.

Then, in this modification, when at least the first discharge door 175a is in the open state, the second discharge drive unit 191b is driven and controlled so that the second discharge door 175b is in the closed state. In this way, even if the first discharge door 175a is in the open state, the game ball is not discharged from the discharge passage HT unless the second discharge door 175b is in the open state.

Such a configuration is applied, for example, to the open / close execution mode having the waiting time of the short-time mode shown in the fourth embodiment. Then, when the standby time in the short-time mode is set, the second discharge door 175b is held in the closed state, and when the standby time in the long-time mode is set, the second discharge door 175b is held in the open state. do. Then, it is possible to more preferably avoid the game ball being discharged from the discharge port 174 during the waiting time of the short-time mode.

<10th Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the branch passage BT is provided in the discharge passage HT. FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an outline of the discharge passage HT in the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 41, a branch passage BT capable of guiding the game ball to a region different from the discharge passage HT is provided at a position downstream of the discharge port 174 in the discharge passage HT. The branch passage BT is provided with a detection sensor 28 for detecting the passage of a game ball on the downstream side thereof. When the passage of the game ball is detected by the detection sensor 28, a predetermined privilege is given to the player.

At the position where the game ball branches from the discharge passage HT to the branch passage BT, a distribution unit 301 that can switch between a mode in which the game ball is distributed to the branch passage BT and a mode in which the game ball is not distributed to the branch passage BT is provided. More specifically, when the distribution unit 301 is in a mode of distributing to the branch aisle BT, the distribution unit 301 projects into the discharge passage HT, receives a game ball flowing down the discharge passage HT, and plays a game toward the branch passage BT side. Derive the sphere. Further, when the distribution unit 301 is not distributed to the branch passage BT, the distribution unit 301 is accommodated in a portion where the wall portion of the discharge passage HT is recessed on the opposite side of the passage area, so that the distribution portion 301 is accommodated in the discharge passage. It does not protrude into the HT and does not interfere with the game ball flowing down the discharge passage HT, and the flowing game ball flows down to the discharge area as it is without branching to the branch passage BT.

The distribution unit 301 is connected to the distribution drive unit 302, and the distribution drive unit 302 is driven and controlled by the main control device 81 to distribute the game ball to the branch passage BT and to the branch passage BT. It can be switched to a mode that does not exist.

In the present embodiment, as in the sixth embodiment, the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode is set to the high probability mode as a predetermined privilege for being detected by the detection sensor 28. This process will be described in detail later. It should be noted that the fact that the detection is detected by the detection sensor 28 is also expressed in the following description that a V prize has occurred. Further, the number of the discharge passage HTs of the present embodiment is N (20), which is a larger number than the upper limit winning number (10) in the round of the open / close execution mode on the upstream side of the discharge port 174 (discharge door 175). ), The passage length of the discharge passage HT is set so that the game ball can be held.

Further, in the present embodiment, it takes about 0.4 sec for the game ball to reach the distribution unit 301 from the discharge port 174.

Similar to the first embodiment, the discharge passage HT is attached with a transparent front cover. Therefore, the discharge passage HT (more specifically, the entire discharge passage HT and branch passage BT including the discharge door 175, the distribution unit 301, the detection sensor 28, etc.) can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine.

The configuration for setting the winning / failing lottery mode to the high probability mode will be described in detail below. It should be noted that such a configuration can also be applied to the sixth embodiment and the like.

As shown in FIG. 42, as the pass / fail table of the present embodiment, the pass / fail table for the low probability mode of FIG. 42 (a) and the pass / fail table for the high probability mode of FIG. 42 (b) are set. .. In the hit / fail table for the low probability mode, two values of the jackpot random number counter C1 which is the jackpot result are set (1/300), and in the hit / miss table for the high probability mode, the jackpot random number counter C1 which is the jackpot result is set. The value of is set to 6 (1/100).

FIG. 43 shows a distribution table in this embodiment. As the distribution table, a distribution table for the first result display unit of FIG. 43 (a) and a distribution table for the second result display unit of FIG. 43 (b) are set. In the present embodiment, 15R jackpot result A, 15R jackpot result B, and 15R jackpot result C are set as distribution destinations when a jackpot result is obtained.

Each of the 15R jackpot results A to C is a game result in which 15 round games are performed when the open / close execution mode is entered, but the length of the interval period is different as the waiting time between rounds.

Here, also in the present embodiment, when the door portion 165 of the large winning opening 32 is opened, the discharge door 175 of the discharge passage HT is closed, and when the door portion 165 is closed, the discharge door 175 is opened. .. Then, when the door portion 165 is opened in the open / close execution mode, the round game is started and the prize is allowed to the large winning opening 32, and the discharge door 175 is closed, so that the door is discharged during the round game. Game balls will be stored in the passage HT. When the round game is completed and the door portion 165 is closed, the winning of the large winning opening 32 is restricted and the discharge door 175 is opened, so that the game ball stored in the discharge passage HT is discharged to the discharge port 174. Will be discharged from. That is, since the game ball is discharged from the discharge port 174 while the discharge door 175 is open, the difference in the length of the interval period as the waiting time between rounds as described above means that the discharge port is different. The period of discharge from 174 will be different.

The 15R jackpot result A is a game result in which 6 sec is set for each interval period in both the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit. In each round game, 10 pieces are set as the upper limit winning number, and 30 sec is set as the upper limit opening period in which the upper limit winning number of game balls can be expected to enter. In this case, the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 174 is expected to be 10 or more (substantially 10) in each interval period.

For the 15R jackpot result B, 6 sec is set for the interval period from the first round to the thirteenth round in both the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit. The interval period from the 14th round to the 15th round (from the end of the 14th round game to the start of the 15th round game) is set to 2.5 sec in the distribution table for the first result display unit, and the second 2.2 sec is set in the distribution table for the result display unit. In each round game, 10 pieces are set as the upper limit winning number, and 30 sec is set as the upper limit opening period in which the upper limit winning number of game balls can be expected to enter. In this case, 10 or more (substantially 10) game balls can be expected to be discharged in the interval period up to the 13th round, while in the interval period from the 14th round to the 15th round, the first result display unit side. Approximately 6 to 7 (0.4 sec x 6 = 2.4 sec, 0.4 sec x 7 = 2.8 sec), and approximately 5 (0.4 sec x 5 = 2.) on the second result display unit side. It is expected that the game ball (0 sec) will be discharged. Then, during the ending at the end of the open / close execution mode (after the end of the 15th round game), the game balls (10 pieces) that won the prize in the 15th round game and the game balls that won the prize in the 14th round game and are not discharged. The game balls (3 to 4 or 5) will be ejected.

For the 15R jackpot result C, 6 sec is set for the interval period from the first round to the thirteenth round in both the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit. The interval period from the 14th round to the 15th round (from the end of the 14th round game to the start of the 15th round game) is set to 2 sec. In each round game, 10 pieces are set as the upper limit winning number, and 30 sec is set as the upper limit opening period in which the upper limit winning number of game balls can be expected to enter. In this case, 10 or more (substantially 10) game balls can be expected to be discharged in the interval period up to the 13th round, while approximately 5 game balls are expected to be discharged in the interval period from the 14th round to the 15th round. Expected to be discharged. Then, during the ending at the end of the open / close execution mode (after the end of the 15th round game), the game balls (10 pieces) that won the prize in the 15th round game and the game balls that won the prize in the 14th round game and are not discharged. The game balls (about 5) will be ejected.

That is, the 15R jackpot result A, the 15R jackpot result B, and the 15R jackpot result C differ in the length of the interval period as the waiting time between the 14th round game and the 15th round game. As a result, the number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 174 after the end of the 15th round game can be different. The number of game balls ejected after the end of the 15th round game is such that the 15R jackpot result A is the smallest and the 15R jackpot result C is the largest in the distribution table for the first result display unit. Is set to. On the other hand, in the distribution table for the second result display unit, the 15R jackpot result A is the smallest, and the 15R jackpot result B and the 15R jackpot result C are set to have the same number.

The flowchart of FIG. 44A shows the process for shifting to the high probability mode. The transition process for the high probability mode is a process started by the MPU 112 of the main control device 81 in a predetermined cycle (for example, a 4 msec cycle).

In step S1401, it is determined whether or not the start timing this time is in the open / close execution mode. If it is not in the open / close execution mode, the process for this transition is terminated as it is. In the open / close execution mode, it is determined whether or not the V prize has occurred, that is, whether or not the game ball has been guided to the branch passage BT based on the detection state of the detection sensor 28. If no V prize has been generated, the transfer process is terminated as it is. If a V prize has occurred, the process of setting the high-probability mode transition flag in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114 is executed in step S1403, and then the process for transition is terminated. The high-probability mode transition flag is a flag for the MPU 112 to grasp that a V prize has occurred during the open / close execution mode.

The flowchart of FIG. 44B shows the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode in the present embodiment. The transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode is a process that is started in step S412 after determining that the ending has ended (step S411: YES) in the game state transition process (FIG. 17).

In step S1501, it is determined whether or not the high probability mode transition flag set in step S1403 is set. The case where the flag for transition to the high probability mode is set means that a V prize has occurred during the opening / closing execution mode of this time. In this case, the high probability mode is set in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114 in step S1502. Executes the process of setting the flag. The high-probability mode flag is a flag for the MPU 112 to grasp that the winning / failing lottery mode is the high-probability mode, and the winning / losing lottery mode is set to the high-probability mode in the process of step S1502.

If it is determined in step S1501 that the V prize has not occurred, or after the process of step S1502 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1503. In step S1503, a process of setting the high frequency support mode flag in the various flag storage areas 114e of the RAM 114 is executed. The high-frequency support mode flag is a flag for the MPU 112 to grasp that the support mode is the high-frequency support mode, and the support mode is set to the high-frequency support mode by the process of step S1503.

Then, in step S1504, a process of setting 100 in the game count counter GC in various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is executed, and then this transition process is terminated. The game count counter GC is a counter for the MPU 112 to grasp the number of game rounds in which the high probability mode and the high frequency support mode are continued after the open / close execution mode, and is decremented by 1 each time the game rounds are started. When the game count counter GC becomes 0, the high-probability mode flag is cleared and the high-frequency support mode flag is cleared. As a result, the gaming state is set to the low probability mode and the low frequency support mode. When the game count counter GC becomes 0, the state is maintained if the high probability mode flag is not set, and only the high frequency support mode flag is deleted.

In this way, when a V prize is generated during the open / close execution mode, the high probability mode transition flag is set, and the gaming state after the open / close execution mode is set to the high probability mode and the high frequency support mode. On the other hand, if the V prize does not occur during the open / close execution mode, the high probability mode transition flag is not set, so that the gaming state after the open / close execution mode is set to the low probability mode and the high frequency support mode. If the winning / failing lottery mode is a high-probability mode, a jackpot result is likely to occur (FIG. 42). Therefore, it is more advantageous for the player to generate a V prize during the open / close execution mode than not to generate a V prize. It can be said that it is a configuration that shifts to the state.

When the high-probability mode and the high-frequency support mode are set, or when the low-probability mode and the high-frequency support mode are set, the low-probability mode is performed by performing 100 game rounds after the open / close execution mode. And it is set to the low frequency support mode.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing a closing time setting process in the present embodiment. As described above, the closing time setting process is a process performed in step S515 of the large winning opening opening / closing process (FIG. 18), and is a process for setting an interval period between rounds.

In step S1601, it is determined whether or not the value of the round counter RC is 1. That is, it is determined whether or not the interval period set this time is the interval period between the 14th round and the 15th round. If a negative determination is made in step S1601, the process of inputting "3000" to the timer counter T is executed in step S1602, and then the present setting process is terminated. In this case, the interval period between rounds is 6 sec, and 10 or more game balls can be ejected during the interval period.

If an affirmative judgment is made in step S1601 and the interval period is between the 14th round and the 15th round, it is determined in step S1603 whether or not the current opening / closing execution mode is based on the 15R jackpot result B. .. In the case of the 15R jackpot result B, in step S1604, it is determined whether or not the 15R jackpot result B is based on the hit / fail determination on the first result display unit side.

If the 15R jackpot result B is based on the hit / fail determination on the first result display unit side, the process of inputting "1250" to the timer counter T is executed in step S1605, and then the present setting process is terminated. In this case, the interval period between rounds is 2.5 sec, and approximately 6 to 7 game balls can be ejected during the interval period.

If a negative determination is made in either step S1603 or step S1604, the process of inputting "1100" to the timer counter T is executed in step S1606, and then the present setting process is terminated. In this case, the interval period between rounds is 2.2 sec, and approximately five game balls can be ejected during the interval period.

In the ending process (step S517) of the large winning opening opening / closing process (FIG. 18) in the present embodiment, a process of inputting "4000" to the timer counter T is performed. That is, the waiting time for the ending in this embodiment is set to be 8 sec. This is a change to increase the number of game balls that can be ejected after the final round and before the end of the open / close execution mode. By doing the above, approximately 20 game balls (remaining balls + upper limit winning number or more) can be ejected after the final round and before the end of the open / close execution mode.

<Processing for distribution drive>
Next, the distribution driving process related to the switching control of the distribution unit 301 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The distribution drive process is a process that is periodically (for example, a 2 msec cycle) started by the MPU 112 of the main control device 81.

In step S1701, by grasping the driving state of the distribution driving unit 302, it is determined whether or not the distribution unit 301 is in a mode of distributing the game ball to the branch passage BT. When the distribution drive unit 302 is being driven and the distribution unit 301 is in a mode of distributing the game ball to the branch passage BT, the process proceeds to step S1702. In step S1702, it is determined whether or not the door portion 165, which is the entrance door of the large winning opening 32, is closed. Such a determination can be made based on whether or not the value of the timer counter T input in the large winning opening opening / closing process is 0, and the driving state of the variable winning driving unit 181. That is, when the variable winning drive unit 181 is in the drive state, the door unit 165 is in the open state, and the timer counter T is 0, it is determined that the entrance door is closed.

If it is the closing timing of the entrance door, the distribution cycle setting process is executed in step S1703. The distribution cycle setting process is a process for setting a distribution cycle in which the distribution unit 301 is switched and controlled from a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, the closing timing of the entrance door is set as a predetermined predetermined timing. Then, in step S1703, a process of inputting "2750" to the distribution timer counter HT provided in various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is performed. The distribution timer counter HT is a counter for grasping the distribution control timing of the distribution unit 301, and is decremented by 1 each time the timer interrupt process is activated. That is, the numerical value input in step S1703 corresponds to 5.5 seconds, and in the present embodiment, the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed 5.5 seconds after the large winning opening 32 is closed.

In the following step S1704, the distribution number setting process is executed. The distribution number setting process is a process for setting the number of times that the distribution unit 301 distributes the game ball to the branch passage BT for one distribution trigger. In the present embodiment, the closing of the large winning opening 32 corresponds to one distribution trigger. In step S1704, a process of inputting "1" to the distribution number counter HC provided in various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is executed. The distribution number counter HC is a counter for the MPU 112 to grasp the number of times the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed for one distribution trigger.

If a negative determination is made in step S1702, or after the process of step S1704 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1705. In step S1705, it is determined whether or not the distribution number counter HC is "1". Further, in step S1706, it is determined whether or not the distribution timer counter HT is "0". If the distribution count counter HC is not "1" ("0") in step S1705, or if the distribution timer counter HT is not "0" in step S1706, the main distribution drive is performed as it is. End the processing.

When the distribution number counter HC is "1" and the distribution timer counter HT is "0", it is assumed that the distribution timing is the distribution unit 301, and the process proceeds to step S1707. In step S1707, the drive control of the distribution drive unit 302 is started, and a process is performed in which the distribution unit 301 distributes the game ball to the branch passage BT. Then, in step S1708, a process of inputting "500" to the distribution timer counter HT is performed. The numerical value input here corresponds to 1 sec, and is for specifying the period from the mode in which the distribution unit 301 distributes the game ball to the branch passage BT to the mode in which the game ball is not distributed to the branch passage BT. It is a numerical value of. Then, in step S1709, a process of subtracting 1 from the distribution number counter HC is performed, and then the distribution drive process is terminated.

If it is determined in step S1701 that the distribution drive unit 302 is being driven and the distribution unit 301 is in a mode of distributing the game ball to the branch passage BT, the process proceeds to step S1710. In step S1710, it is determined whether or not the distribution timer counter HT is "0", and if it is not "0", the main distribution drive process is terminated as it is.

When the distribution timer counter HT is "0" and it is the timing to switch the distribution unit 301 to a mode in which the game ball is not distributed to the branch passage BT, the drive control of the distribution drive unit 302 is performed in step S1711. finish. As a result, the distribution unit 301 is switched to a mode in which the game ball is not distributed to the branch passage BT. After that, the main distribution drive process is terminated.

As described above, in the present embodiment, whether or not the game ball is distributed to the branch passage BT is determined by the distribution unit 301 that operates in a predetermined cycle. The operation timing of the distribution unit 301 is uniformly set so that the large winning opening 32 operates 5.5 seconds after the open state is switched to the closed state.

Here, in the open / close execution mode, the timing at which the large winning opening 32 is switched from the open state to the closed state is the timing at which one round game ends. As described above, in the present embodiment, the continuation conditions of each round game are set to be the same regardless of the type of jackpot result. Specifically, in each round game, the upper limit opening period is set to 30 sec and the upper limit is set. The number of winnings is 10. Therefore, in any of the jackpot results and further in any of the round games, one round game has an end condition of either that the big winning opening 32 has passed for 30 seconds or that 10 game balls have won a prize. When the end condition is satisfied, the large winning opening 32 is switched from the open state to the closed state. That is, the distribution timing of the distribution unit 301 in which the switching control is performed 5.5 seconds after the big winning opening 32 is closed is the same timing regardless of the type of the jackpot result and the number of round games. Is set as.

<Mechanism for generating V prizes>
Next, referring to the timing chart of FIG. 47, the mechanism for generating the V prize based on the relationship between the opening / closing timing of the large winning opening 32 and the distribution timing of the distribution unit 301 in the open / close execution mode. explain.

When the predetermined round game is started at the timing of t1, the door portion 165 as the entrance door is opened and the discharge door 175 is closed at the same timing. As a result, the game ball can be won in the large winning opening 32, and the winning game ball is stored in the discharge passage HT on the upstream side of the discharge door 175.

From the timing of t1 to the timing of t2, the game ball wins a prize in the large winning opening 32. When the number of winnings to the large winning opening 32 reaches 10 at the timing of t2, the round game ends at the timing of t2. In this case, at the timing of t2, 10 game balls are stored on the upstream side of the discharge door 175 in the discharge passage HT. Then, at the timing of t2, when the door portion 165 is closed and the discharge door 175 is opened, it becomes impossible to win a prize in the large winning opening 32, and the game ball stored in the discharging passage HT is passed through the discharging port 174. It flows down to the downstream side.

When the large winning opening 32 is closed at the timing of t2, the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed at the timing of t4, which is after a predetermined period (5.5 sec) has elapsed from the same timing. Specifically, the distribution unit 301 is switched to a mode in which the game ball is distributed to the branch passage BT at the timing of t4, and the game ball is not distributed to the branch passage BT at the timing of t5, which is 1 sec after the timing of t4. Can be switched to.

Further, when the large winning opening 32 is closed at the timing of t2, the game ball stored in the discharge passage HT can flow down through the discharge port 174 as described above. In the present embodiment, it takes about 0.4 sec for the game ball to reach the distribution unit 301 from the discharge port 174, which is the product of about 0.4 sec from the timing of t2 and the number of stored balls (10). At the timing of t3 after 4 sec, all the stored game balls reach the distribution unit 301. Then, since the distribution unit 301 is switched to the mode of distributing to the branch passage BT side at the timing of t4, which is later than the timing of t3, all the game balls discharged at the timing of t2 to t3 are the branch passage BT. It will be discharged to different discharge areas. In other words, the V prize does not occur at the timing from t2 to t3.

Here, in the present embodiment, the interval period between rounds differs depending on the type of jackpot result and the number of rounds (FIG. 43). Specifically, the interval period is set to 6 sec, which is a long-term mode, 2.2 sec, which is a short-term mode shorter than the long-term mode, and shorter and shorter than the long-term mode. There are cases where 2.5 sec, which is a medium-term aspect longer than the interim aspect, is set. The long-term aspect is set as a period longer than the upper limit winning number (10 pieces) of the game balls of one round game is discharged from the discharge port 174 to the distribution unit 301. On the other hand, the medium-term mode and the short-term mode are set as a period shorter than the upper limit winning number (10 pieces) of the game balls of one round game being discharged from the discharge port 174 to the distribution unit 301. Therefore, when the interval period of the long-term mode is set, all the game balls won in the round game before the interval period are discharged, while when the interval period of the medium-term mode or the short-term mode is set, the interval period is set. Some of the game balls that won the prize in the round game before the interval period will remain without being discharged.

For example, if the interval period between the round game ending at the timing of t2 and the next round game starting at the timing of t6 is a long-term aspect, the game ball winning at the timing of t1 to t2 is at the timing of t6. All are discharged before. Therefore, when the round game is started at the timing of t6, the number of game balls stored upstream of the discharge door 175 of the discharge passage HT is 0.

Assuming that the round game started from the timing of t6 is carried out until the timing of t7, when the number of winnings to the large winning opening 32 reaches 10 at the timing of t7, the door portion 165 is closed at the timing of t7. At the same time, the discharge door 175 is opened.

When the large winning opening 32 is closed at the timing of t7, distribution is performed from the timing of t9, which is 5.5 seconds after the timing of t7, to the timing of t10, which is 1 sec after the timing of t9. The distribution control of the unit 301 is performed, and the game ball is distributed to the branch passage BT side. This is the same as the case where the large winning opening 32 is closed at the timing of t2.

On the other hand, when one round game is completed at the timing of t7 and the interval period of the short-term mode is set as the interval period until the next round game, at the timing of t8 which is 2.2 sec after t7. The next round game will start. Then, since the large winning opening 32 is opened at the timing of t8, the door portion 165 is opened and the discharge door 175 is closed at the timing of t8.

At the timing of t8, the period required for discharging the number of stored pieces (about 0.4 sec × 10 pieces = 4 sec) has not elapsed from the timing of t7, so that the game ball is located upstream of the discharge door 175 of the discharge passage HT. The discharge door 175 will be closed in the remaining state. Specifically, at the timing of t7 to t8, 5 out of 10 game balls are discharged, and the remaining 5 are left on the upstream side of the discharge door 175 in the discharge passage HT.

Since the timing of t8 is a timing before the timing of t9 in which the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed, all the game balls discharged from the timing of t7 to t8 are on the branch passage BT side. It will be discharged to the discharge area. In other words, the V prize does not occur at the timing from t7 to t8.

When the next round game is started at the timing of t8, the maximum number of winnings is reset, so in the round game carried out from the timing of t8, it is possible to win 10 game balls again. Become. In the region upstream of the discharge door 175 in the discharge passage HT, in the present embodiment, the passage length of the discharge passage HT is set so that 20 game balls can be stored as a predetermined N number. It is set. Therefore, even if the round game is started with 5 game balls remaining at the timing of t8, there is a new area for accommodating 10 game balls, and in the round game started at the timing of t8. It is possible to win a prize in the maximum number of game balls.

When the round game is completed at the timing of t11, the door portion 165 is closed and the discharge door 175 is opened at the timing of t11. As shown in FIG. 43, the case where the interval period of the short-term mode or the medium-term mode is set is the interval period immediately before the final round (15 rounds). Therefore, the round game that ends at the timing of t11 can be said to be the final round game in one open / close execution mode. Since the ending period is set after the timing of t11, the open / close execution mode does not end immediately.

The game balls discharged from the timing of t11 are the game balls remaining in the discharge passage HT at the timing of t8, in addition to the game balls winning from the timing of t8. That is, the number of game balls ejected from the timing of t11 is 10 or more, and in this case, it is 15. Assuming that the period required for discharging one piece is about 0.4 sec, the period required for all 15 pieces to be discharged is 6 sec, which is required until the timing of t13. That is, the period required for discharging all the stored game balls is longer than when the round game is completed at the timing of t2 or t7.

On the other hand, the distribution unit 301 is in a mode of distributing to the branch aisle BT side at the timing of t12, which is a predetermined timing, after the large winning opening 32 is closed at the timing of t11. Return from. More specifically, the timing of t12 is the timing when 5.5 sec has elapsed from the timing of t11, and the timing of t14 is the timing when 1 sec has elapsed from the timing of t12.

That is, when the round game is completed at the timing of t11, the period until the timing of t13 until all the game balls are ejected and the distribution unit 301 distribute the game balls to the branch passage BT side. There is a period (t12 to t13) that overlaps with the period from t12 to t14. Then, the game ball that has reached the distribution unit 301 in the overlapping period will be distributed to the branch passage BT side. As a result, V winning is generated, and the winning / failing lottery mode after the end of the opening / closing execution mode is set to the high probability mode.

On the other hand, for example, when the jackpot result this time is the 15R jackpot result A, the interval period before the final round is set to 6 sec, which is a long-term mode, so that even in the interval period before the final round. , All game balls will be ejected. That is, the number of game balls ejected after the final round is 10, which is the same as the number of game balls ejected after the other rounds. In this case, the V prize does not occur, and the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends is set to the low probability mode.

Further, for example, when the jackpot result this time is the 15R jackpot result B and the winning / losing lottery mode at the time of winning is the low probability mode, the interval period before the final round is set to 2.5 sec, which is a medium period mode. Since 6 to 7 game balls can be ejected in 2.5 sec of the medium period embodiment, the final round will be started with 3 to 4 game balls remaining. Then, the number of game balls ejected after the final round will be 13 to 14, which is larger than the number of game balls ejected after the other rounds. When 13 game balls are ejected, the period required for the ejection is 5.2 sec, and when 14 game balls are ejected, the period required for the ejection is 5.6 sec. In this case, there may be cases where the distribution unit 301 overlaps with the period in which the game ball is distributed to the branch passage BT side, and cases where it does not overlap. That is, the V prize is more likely to occur when the interval period of the long-term mode is set than when the interval period of the medium-term mode is set, and in the medium-term mode, the probability is about 60%. V prizes are to be generated at.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

In a configuration in which the discharge passage HT for discharging the winning game ball to the large winning opening 32 has a discharge door 175 that can be switched between a state in which the winning game ball is stored and a state in which the winning game ball is not stored, the game is discharged from the discharge door 175. The smaller the number of cards, the higher the possibility that a V prize will occur after that. The case where the number of game balls discharged from the discharge door 175 is small is the case where the number of game balls to be stored is large, and the larger the number of stored game balls, the higher the possibility that a V prize will be generated after that. By doing so, it goes without saying that the larger the number of prizes, the higher the possibility that V prizes will occur, and the larger the number of stored prizes, the higher the possibility that V prizes will occur. The timing of switching to the non-reserved state also contributes to the V prize. Therefore, not only the game of winning a prize in the large winning opening 32 and getting a prize ball, or the game of getting a V prize after winning a prize in the large winning opening 32 and getting a privilege (shifting to the high probability mode), but also in the discharge passage HT. A game of storing a large number of game balls will be added, and the game can be diversified.

The distribution unit 301 is subjected to distribution control at a predetermined cycle after the large winning opening 32 is closed. Further, in each round game, the upper limit opening period and the upper limit winning number are set so as not to be different. That is, it can be said that the number of winnings to the large winning opening 32 does not differ in the open / close execution mode, and the number of prize balls based on the winnings does not differ, but only the probability of V winning is different. By doing so, it is possible to greatly differ the subsequent benefits without causing a large difference in the benefits given during each opening / closing execution mode and their configurations. If there is a difference in the privilege and its configuration (opening / closing mode) given during each opening / closing execution mode between the case where the V prize is likely to occur and the case where the V prize is unlikely to occur, even before the V prize is generated, the V is subsequently V. There is a possibility that the player can easily detect whether or not a prize is generated. For example, it is detected that a prize is not generated in the large winning opening 32 during the open / close execution mode, or even if a prize is generated, the V prize is not generated from the operation mode of the distribution means that distributes to the V prize side. For example. In this case, even though we have prepared a game in which a V prize is generated by the behavior of the game ball and a privilege is given, the behavior cannot be fully enjoyed. Therefore, as in the present embodiment, the probability of V winning is changed without changing the opening / closing mode of the large winning opening 32 and the timing of the sorting control of the sorting unit 301. Therefore, whether or not V winning occurs. It is possible to enjoy the behavior of the game ball until the end.

In the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit, the distribution destinations of the jackpot results are the same as those of the 15R jackpot results A to C, and the jackpot results are different. The value of the corresponding jackpot type counter C2 is also common. The difference is the final round between the case where the distribution table for the first result display unit has a 15R jackpot result B and the case where the distribution table for the second result display unit has a 15R jackpot result B. Only the length of the previous interval period (the part shown by the thick frame in FIG. 43). That is, the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit can be treated as the same, and the storage capacity can be reduced. On the other hand, as described above, it is possible to change the V winning probability simply by changing the interval period before the final round, and while making the distribution destination of the jackpot result common, the first result display unit. It is possible to make a large difference in the advantage between the side and the second result display unit side.

The interval period to be different was set as the interval period before the final round. By doing so, it is not necessary to adjust the discharge period, and it is possible to reduce the configuration that differs between the jackpot results. That is, if a configuration is configured in which a short-term mode or the like is set in the interval period between rounds in the middle, 10 or more game balls will be stored after the end of the round game after the set interval period. Then, if the difference in the V winning rate caused by the storage of 10 or more game balls is to be realized, a period in which 10 or more game balls are discharged is secured in the subsequent interval period (). (Preventing the large winning opening 32 from being open) will be required, and the adjustment of one interval period will not be limited. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, it is premised that all the game balls are discharged after the final round (the period in which the large winning opening 32 is closed continues). Therefore, it is not necessary to make a big difference from other configurations, and it is possible to obtain a large effect by changing a small configuration.

In the configuration of changing the interval period immediately before the final round as described above, the ending period is set sufficiently longer than the period that would be required for all the game balls to be ejected. By doing so, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of an event that the occurrence timing is after the open / close execution mode (after the lapse of the ending period) even though the V prize has occurred, and the high probability mode is not set. Is possible.

As the interval period, a long-term mode in which V-winning does not occur thereafter, a short-term mode in which V-winning occurs, and a probability of occurrence of V-winning are between the long-term mode and the short-term mode. The period mode was set. As a result, it is possible to cause a case where V prize does not occur at all, a case where V prize is likely to occur, and a case where V prize may occur depending on the behavior of the game ball. It will be possible to get more attention as it is discharged.

<11th Embodiment>
In this embodiment, the length of the interval period is determined by lottery. FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the closing time setting process in the present embodiment.

In step S1801, a process of acquiring a lottery counter from various counter areas 114d of the RAM 114 is executed. The lottery counter is, for example, a loop counter from 0 to 100, and is updated by 1 at a predetermined cycle. Then, by updating to the maximum value (minimum value), the initial value (minimum value or maximum value) is set.

In step S1802, a process of acquiring a lottery table from various table storage areas of the ROM 112 is executed. The lottery table is based on, for example, the type of game result, the type of result display unit, the high / low of the winning / failing lottery mode, the high / low of the support mode, the number of rounds, etc. Is set to be different.

In step S1803, it is determined whether or not the short-term mode winning (short closing winning) is achieved by referring to the counter and the table acquired in steps S1801 and S1802. If the short-term mode is not won, the process of inputting "3000" to the timer counter T is executed in step S1804, and then the present setting process is terminated. If the short-term mode is won, the process of inputting "1100" to the timer counter T is executed in step S1805, and then the present setting process is terminated. The value set in step S1804 corresponds to 6 sec, and the value set in step S1805 corresponds to 2.2 sec.

In the closing command setting process executed after the closing time setting process in the large winning opening opening / closing process, the closing command is set so as to include the information of the length of the interval period to be set. By receiving the closing command, the effect control device 82 grasps the length of the interval period this time, and controls the display control device 212 and the like so as to perform an effect according to the length. For example, when the interval period of the short-term mode is set, all the game balls are not discharged and the remaining balls are generated during the interval period, and the maximum number of winnings is generated in the subsequent round game. If so, it is notified that V prize is likely to occur after that. Further, when the interval period of the long-term mode is set, it is notified that all the game balls are discharged in the interval period. Further, when the interval period of the long-term mode is set, if the interval period of the short-term mode is set in the interval period before that, V prize may occur in the interval period of the current long-term mode. Notify that.

By doing the above, the timing at which the V prize is generated is not limited and diversified after the end of the final round. In addition, it is possible to add fun such as which interval period is set at the end of each round game, and it is possible to suitably increase the degree of attention in the open / close execution mode.

In addition, since the interval period is determined by lottery at the end of each round game, the probability of being set to the high probability mode after the open / close execution mode is not the transition to the open / close execution mode (at the time of the win / fail lottery), but the transition. It is a configuration that is set after the fact. By doing so, even if the player shifts to the open / close execution mode that is not preferable for the player (such as when the number of rounds is small) in the configuration in which multiple types of open / close execution modes are set, the open / close execution mode is set. It will be possible to entertain until the end.

Here, when the interval period of the short-term mode is set, V prizes may occur after that, which is considered to be advantageous for the player. On the other hand, if the interval period of the short-term mode is set, residual balls may be generated in the discharge passage HT. Therefore, if the interval period of the short-term mode is continuously set, in the subsequent round game. , There may be cases where the maximum number of winning game balls does not win.

Specifically, for example, assuming that an interval period of a short-term mode is set at the end of the third round, five game balls are discharged in the interval period, and five remaining balls are discharged in the discharge passage HT. Occurs. Therefore, at the end of the next fourth round, 15 game balls are stored in the discharge passage HT. Then, when the interval period of the long-term mode is set at the end of the fourth round, all the game balls (15) are discharged during the interval period, and V prize is generated.

On the other hand, in the above case, if the interval period of the short-term mode is set again at the end of the fourth round, five game balls are discharged even in the interval period, and ten remaining balls are discharged in the discharge passage HT. Will occur. Then, at the end of the next fifth round, 20 game balls are stored in the discharge passage HT.

As described in the tenth embodiment, the discharge passage HT is configured to be capable of storing 20 game balls as a specific number of N pieces. Therefore, in the above example, a specific number of game balls are stored at the end of the fifth round.

In such a case, if an interval period of a shorter period is set at the end of the fifth round, five game balls are discharged even in the interval period, and 15 remaining balls are discharged in the discharge passage HT. Occurs. Then, in the next 6th round, even if an attempt is made to generate a prize of 10 game balls, which is the maximum number of prizes, only a specific number of game balls can be stored in the discharge passage HT, so only 5 prizes can be won. I can't let you.

That is, as in the above configuration, by setting the interval period of the short-term mode, the V prize is generated after that, which is advantageous for the player, but the interval period of the short-term mode is set continuously a predetermined number of times. If this is done, a disadvantageous event may occur for the player that the maximum number of winning round games cannot be won.

In this way, not only the length of the interval period determined by lottery at the end of each round game, but also the advantage changes including the relationship before and after the interval period, so that the advantage changes throughout the open / close execution mode. It is possible to increase the degree of attention.

<Twelfth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the interval period of each round game is set to be the same. FIG. 49 shows a distribution table in this embodiment.

In the present embodiment, a 4R jackpot result, a 10R jackpot result, and a 15R jackpot result are set as distribution destinations when a jackpot result is obtained. The 4R jackpot result is the jackpot result that shifts to the open / close execution mode that executes 4 round games, and the 10R jackpot result is the jackpot result that shifts to the open / close execution mode that executes 10 round games. This is a big hit result of shifting to the open / close execution mode in which 15 round games are executed.

Regardless of the jackpot result, the upper limit opening period is set to 30 sec and the upper limit winning period is set to 10 in each round game. That is, in each round game, 10 game balls can win a prize.

Further, in the present embodiment, the interval period, which is the waiting time between rounds, is set to 3.6 sec regardless of the jackpot result. In this case, the number of game balls discharged in each interval period is 9 to 10. That is, there are cases where residual spheres are generated and cases where residual spheres are not generated in each interval period.

For example, in the case of the 4R jackpot result, the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage HT at the end of the final round (4 rounds) is from the case where 10 discharges are performed in the entire interval period to the entire interval period. This is the case when 9 pieces are discharged, and the number is 10 to 13 pieces. Then, regardless of the number of stored pieces, the period in which the game ball is discharged at the end of the final round and the period in which the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed are unlikely to overlap, and a V prize is generated. Hateful.

In the case of the 10R jackpot result, the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage HT at the end of the final round (10 rounds) is 10 to 19. Then, if the number is 10 to 13, the V prize is unlikely to occur, but if the number is 14 or more, the V prize can occur.

Even in the case of the 15R jackpot result, the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage HT at the end of the final round (15 rounds) is 10 to 20. Then, if the number is 10 to 13, the V prize is unlikely to occur, but if the number is 14 or more, the V prize can occur. In this case, since the number of round games is larger than the 10R jackpot result, there is a high possibility that the number of stored pieces will be 14 or more, and the number of stored pieces of 20 pieces will be V prized rather than the number of stored pieces of 19 pieces. Therefore, the possibility of winning a V is higher in the 15R jackpot result than in the 10R jackpot result.

However, when the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage HT exceeds 19 at the end of one round game, that is, when the number reaches 20, nine balls are stored in the interval period after the end of the round game. When the ejection is performed (when 11 remaining balls are generated), the maximum number of winnings cannot be generated in the next round game. For example, assuming that 9 pieces are discharged from the 1st round to all rounds, the number of stored pieces reaches 20 at the end of the 11th round, and 11 pieces are stored at the start of the 12th round. Become. Then, only 9 prizes can be generated in the 12th round, and similarly, only 9 prizes can be generated in the 13th to 15th rounds. In this case, as shown in the second embodiment, since it is not possible to generate a prize for the maximum number of winnings in one round game, the round game is not an end condition on the side of the maximum number of winnings, but an upper limit opening period. It continues until the end condition on the side is satisfied, specifically, it continues until 30 sec elapses. Then, the 15R jackpot result is a game result in which V winning is likely to occur and a large amount of game balls can be won in the big winning opening 32, but it takes a long time until the opening / closing execution mode ends. It can be said that it is a game result that may be required.

Here, for example, if the jackpot results are continuously generated or a large number of balls can be obtained with one jackpot result, it is possible to secure a large number of balls in a short period of time. , Seems to be good for players. However, on the other hand, there is also a disadvantage that the period during which the ball cannot be obtained becomes long due to the adjustment of the ball ejection rate, and the normal game may be uninteresting. Therefore, it may be possible to limit the number of balls that can be obtained in a short period of time by reducing the number of balls that can be obtained as a result of one big hit, such as by reducing the number of round games. However, if the number of balls that can be obtained as a result of one big hit is reduced, the joy of the result of a big hit is also reduced, so such a configuration is also not preferable.

In that respect, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to enjoy the one jackpot result for a longer period of time without extremely reducing the number of balls to be ejected in one jackpot result, and the number of balls to be ejected is extremely increased. And it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience during normal times. It should be noted that such an effect can be said even in a configuration in which the round game is terminated by the termination condition on the upper limit opening period side such as the second embodiment.

Here, as shown in FIG. 49, the distribution table for the first result display unit and the distribution table for the second result display unit are based on the type of the jackpot result to be the distribution destination and the jackpot result. Although the opening / closing mode of the big winning opening 32 in the opening / closing execution mode is the same, the type of the value of the jackpot type counter C2 associated with each distribution destination is different (in the figure, the different part is indicated by a thick frame line). Shown).

Specifically, the distribution table for the second result display unit is set so as to be more easily distributed to the jackpot results with a large number of rounds than the distribution table for the first result display unit. That is, regarding the 4R jackpot result, "0 to 9" is associated with the first result display unit side, while "0 to 4" is associated with the second result display unit side. The 1 result display unit is easier to be assigned to the 4R jackpot result than the 2nd result display unit. Further, regarding the 10R jackpot result, "10 to 19" is associated with the first result display unit side, while "5 to 9" is associated with the second result display unit side. The 1 result display unit is easier to be assigned to the 10R jackpot result than the 2nd result display unit. On the other hand, regarding the 15R jackpot result, "20 to 29" is associated with the first result display unit side, while "10 to 29" is associated with the second result display unit side. , The second result display unit is easier to be assigned to the 15R jackpot result than the first result display unit.

Therefore, when a big hit result is obtained on the second result display unit side, V winning is more likely to occur than on the first result display unit side. As a result, when the jackpot result is obtained on the second result display unit side, the probability that the high probability mode is set after the open / close execution mode is higher than that on the first result display unit side.

By making the above configuration, the probability of V winning can be changed without changing the interval period in each game result. That is, both the start timing and the end timing of the round game in the open / close execution mode do not change regardless of the jackpot result, and it is not necessary to change the setting for each open / close execution mode, so that the processing load is increased. Can be reduced. Nevertheless, since the V winning rate can be changed, the game ball does not complicate the opening / closing mode in the opening / closing execution mode as compared with the configuration in which the high / low of the winning / failing lottery mode is set for each jackpot result. It is possible to play the effect of entertaining the V prize caused by the behavior of.

<13th embodiment>
In this embodiment, the configurations of the tenth to twelfth embodiments are applied to the configuration having a plurality of variable winning devices shown in the third embodiment.

As shown in the third embodiment, also in this embodiment, each round in the open / close execution mode is alternately executed by the first variable winning unit 201 and the second variable winning unit 202. Then, in the closing time setting process (step S515) of each round, "0" is input to the timer counter T as a numerical value corresponding to the interval period. That is, as in the third embodiment, the round of another variable winning unit is carried out during the period in which the game ball is discharged in one variable winning unit.

However, in the present embodiment, the first variable winning unit 201 can store a larger number of game balls than the maximum number of stored games (10) in the third embodiment, and specifically, the first variable winning unit. The unit 201 according to the tenth to twelfth embodiments is applied so that 20 game balls can be stored, and a distribution unit 301 and a branch passage BT are provided on the downstream side of the discharge port 174. It shall be configured. Further, as the second variable winning unit 202, the one of the third embodiment is applied. That is, in the first variable winning unit 201, if a larger number (15 pieces) than the upper limit winning number (10 pieces) of the round is stored, V winning is likely to occur thereafter.

FIG. 50 is a timing chart for explaining how each round is executed in the present embodiment in relation to the V prize.

For example, it is assumed that the Nth round game is performed on the first variable winning unit 201 side at the timing from t1 to t3. In this case, when 10 game balls win in the first variable winning unit 201, the Nth round game ends, and immediately the N + 1th round game starts on the second variable winning unit 202 side. During the Nth round game, the game balls stored in the N-1th round game are discharged. Specifically, the second variable winning unit 202 is discharged at the timing from t1 to t2. It has been.

When the Nth round game is completed at the timing of t3, the large winning opening 32 on the first variable winning unit 201 side is closed, so that the ejection of the game ball in the first variable winning unit 201 is started. The discharge is carried out until the timing of t4 during the N + 1th round. The distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed after a predetermined period (5.5 sec) from the closing timing of t3 (timing from t5 to t7).

When the N + 1th round game is completed at the timing of t6, the N + 2nd round game is started on the first variable winning unit 201 side from the timing of the t6, and the game ball is discharged on the second variable winning unit 202 side. It will be started. The N + 2nd round game is carried out until the timing of t9, and the discharge on the 2nd variable winning unit 202 side is carried out until the timing of t8 during the N + 2nd round.

When the N + 2nd round game is completed at the timing of t9, the N + 3rd round game is started on the 2nd variable winning unit 202 side from the timing of the t9, and the game ball is discharged on the 1st variable winning unit 201 side. It will be started.

In such a flow of the round game, for example, in the N + 3rd round game started at the timing of t9, when the upper limit winning number is won earlier than usual, the first round game is carried out from the timing of t9. The N + 3rd round game may be completed before the discharge of the game ball on the 1 variable winning unit 201 side is completed. Specifically, as described above, it takes about 0.4 sec for each game ball to be ejected, and it takes about 4 sec to eject 10 balls. Further, in order to launch 10 game balls, which is the maximum number of winnings, it takes 6 sec, which is obtained by multiplying 10 by 0.6 sec, which is a firing cycle. Therefore, normally, the period required to reach the upper limit winning number is longer than the period required for emission, and the event that emission is completed before the end of the round as described above is unlikely to occur.

On the other hand, for example, as in the modified example (FIG. 27) in the third embodiment, after the round game in which the game ball waiting to flow down exists in the receiving portion 163 of the first variable winning unit 201. In the round game, after the round game in the first variable winning unit 201 is completed, the game ball received by the receiving unit 163 will win the second variable winning unit 202 at once. By doing so, it is possible to end the round game performed in the second variable winning unit 202 at an early stage, and it is possible to end the round game earlier than the period required for discharge as described above.

As a result, for example, if the N + 3rd round game is completed at the timing of t10, which is before the discharge of the 1st variable winning unit 201 side is completed, the N + 4th round game is the first at the timing of the same t10. It starts on the variable winning unit 201 side. Then, the round game is started in the situation where a predetermined number of game balls (5 in the figure) that have not been discharged are present on the first variable winning unit 201 side, and the N + 4th round game ends t14. At the timing of, the number of game balls (15) obtained by adding the upper limit winning number to the predetermined number is stored.

Based on the fact that the first variable winning unit 201 is closed at the timing of t9, the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed after a predetermined period (5.5 sec) from the closing timing of the t9 (t11 to t12). Timing). Further, based on the completion of the N + 3rd round game at the timing of t10, the discharge of the second variable winning unit 202 side is started, and the discharge is completed at the timing of t13.

For example, if the N + 4th round game that ends at the timing of t14 is the final round of the opening / closing execution mode this time, the discharge period after the N + 4th round game is sufficiently secured and after it is closed. A period that overlaps with the timing of the distribution control from t15 to t16, which is a predetermined period, and the discharge period ending at the timing of t17 occurs. As a result, a V prize is generated by the game ball discharged at the timing of t15 to t16, and the winning / failing lottery mode after the opening / closing execution mode is set to the high probability mode.

As described above, if the game ball won during one round game is discharged during the round game carried out by the other variable winning unit, the round carried out by the other variable winning unit. If the game period is shortened, the ejection period is also shortened, and as a result, an event occurs in which all the gaming balls are not ejected and the remaining balls are generated. Therefore, in the next and subsequent round games, it is possible to generate a state in which a larger number of game balls than the upper limit winning number is stored, and when the stored game balls are discharged, V winning is likely to occur. It becomes possible.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the upper limit winning number and the upper limit opening period in each round game are not different, and the variation caused by the flow mode of the game ball and the flow waiting at the receiving portion 163 of the first variable winning unit 201. Since the round game performed by the second variable winning unit 202 can be terminated early by using the above, the player's own operation is compared with the configuration in which the round game is forcibly terminated on the gaming machine side. It is easy to have an image that was terminated early.

Since a short-term round game is realized by one variable winning unit that is not provided with a distribution unit 301 among a plurality of variable winning units, the distribution control and the discharge period after one round game are defined. Duplicates are easier to design. That is, for example, if a round game for a short period is set in one variable winning unit and then many game balls are discharged, the distribution control performed after the short round game overlaps with the discharge of the subsequent round game. There is a possibility that the V prize will be generated before the distribution control performed after the subsequent round game. Then, for example, in consideration of the production, there may be a contradiction with the notification that the round is likely to generate a V prize after that and the timing of the occurrence. In that respect, if they are separated from each other as described above, it is possible to prevent contradictions in the production from occurring.

<Other embodiments>
The content is not limited to the description of each of the above-described embodiments, and may be carried out as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be individually applied to each of the above embodiments, or may be partially or wholly combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or a part of the various configurations shown in the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effect to be exerted) of each configuration to be combined is guaranteed. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or a part or all of them may be applied in combination.

(1) The discharge passage HT is configured to hold 10 game balls, which is the maximum number of winning rounds, but if the discharge passage HT holds the game balls, the number of games held is 10. Not limited. Further, as a configuration for matching the maximum number of winnings in the round, when the maximum number of winnings in the round is, for example, less than 10 or 11 or more, the number held in the discharge passage HT may be changed according to the number.

(2) All the game balls entered from the large winning opening 32 are held in the discharge passage HT on condition that the discharge door 175 is closed, but some of the game balls entered are It may be a structure to be retained. Specifically, for example, in the discharge passage HT, a branch passage and a distribution device are provided on the upstream side of the discharge door 175. The branch passage is not provided with a discharge door, and the game ball is not held when the branch passage is distributed to the branch passage side by the distribution device. Then, when the distribution is distributed to the discharge door 175 side by the distribution device, the discharge door 175 is held in the discharge passage HT on condition that the discharge door 175 is in the closed state. For example, if the distribution of the distribution device is alternately distributed between the branch passage and the discharge door 175 side, the number of units held on the discharge door 175 side is halved. By doing so, the passage length of the discharge passage HT can be made shorter than that described above.

(3) Not only the discharge passage from the large winning opening 32 and the discharging passage from the first operating opening 48, but also other entry parts (general winning opening 31, the second operating opening 49, the upper operating opening 33, and the lower operating). The above-mentioned configuration of the discharge passage HT may be applied to the discharge passage from the mouth 34 or the like). For example, the configuration of the discharge passage HT is applied to the lower operating port 34 provided with the electric accessory 34a, and the discharge door 175 is closed at the time of transition to the high frequency support mode based on the normal jackpot result. Further, the number of pieces that can be held in the discharge passage HT is set to be the same as the upper limit number of times (100) of the number of times limit of the high frequency support mode. By doing so, 100 game balls enter the lower operating port 34, and subsequent game balls cannot enter the lower operating port 34. Therefore, it is possible to manage the substantial end of the support mode not only by the number of game times but also by the number of balls entered into the lower operating port 34, and it is possible to realize a new game playability.

(4) Although the discharge door 175 is displaced by the operation of the guide member 162, a drive unit may be separately provided.

(5) Although the guide member 162 is operated via the first link member 182 and the second link member 183, it may be directly operated by the variable winning drive unit 181.

(6) Although the large winning opening 32 is an opening in which one game ball can be entered, a wide opening in which a plurality of game balls can be entered at the same time may be used. In this case, it is sufficient that the game balls are arranged side by side directly under the wide opening so that more game balls than the number stored in the discharge passage HT cannot enter.

(7) The position where the variable winning unit 151 is provided is not limited to the right side region PE3, and may be the lower region PE4 or the other regions PE1 and PE2. Regarding the positional relationship with the lower operating port 34, if the lower operating port 34 is arranged on the downstream side of the variable winning unit 151, the winning of the variable winning unit 151 during the open / close execution mode is the winning of the lower operating port 34. It is preferable because it does not cause an event such as being hindered by.

(8) The front cover 158 of the variable winning unit 151 is made transparent, but it may be opaque or translucent. However, since the passing region TE is a region before the game ball enters and is included in the gaming region PE, it is preferable that the portion corresponding to the passing region TE is transparent.

(9) The variable winning units 201 and 202 are arranged side by side, but may be arranged in, for example, the left side region PE2 and the right side region PE3, respectively. In this case, it is possible to decide which unit 201 or 202 will be awarded, and it is possible to expect active participation in the game.

(10) In the configuration in which the discharge passages of the variable winning unit 151 and the general winning opening 31 are merged, the discharge passages of the ball-filling portions arranged so as to be able to be hit may be merged.

(11) In the configuration in which the discharge passage from the other entry portion (general winning opening 31) joins the discharge passage HT from the large winning opening 32, the branch passage BT may not be provided. By doing so, the game balls from the general winning opening 31 join during the round in the open / close execution mode, so that the discharge passage HT can be set even if the number of balls entered from the large winning opening 32 does not reach the upper limit number of balls. It becomes full. Thereby, the number of winning balls in each round can be managed as the total number of the large winning opening 32 and the general winning opening 31. Further, if this configuration is applied to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to generate a situation in which it becomes easier to enter the special entry portion 26 if a prize is generated in the general winning opening 31 during the round. Will be.

(12) In the configuration in which the discharge drive unit 191 is provided separately from the variable winning drive unit 181, for example, the discharge drive unit 191 may be periodically operated. In this case, the execution timing of the open / close execution mode is set to drive the discharge drive unit 191 so that the discharge door 175 is closed at the timing when the variable prize drive unit 181 is driven and controlled to open the variable prize unit 151. The configuration should be adjusted from the cycle. Specifically, in setting the opening period, it is preferable to grasp the next operation timing from the above drive cycle and set the opening period so that the variable winning drive unit 181 is driven and controlled according to the operation timing. .. For the second and subsequent rounds, the same adjustment may be made in the closing time setting process.

(13) The displacement control of the variable winning units 151, 201, 202 is performed by the main control device 81, but is performed by other control devices (effect control device 82, display control device 212, payout control device 97, etc.). May be.

(14) When the variable winning unit 151 is closed, the game ball cannot enter the large winning opening 32, but it may be difficult to enter the ball. For example, the door portion 165 may not be completely closed but may be half-opened. Even in this case, since the maximum number of winning balls is accumulated in the discharge passage HT, the winning of the large winning opening 32 is substantially eliminated.

(15) The discharge door 175 is closed by the guide member 162 in the guided state and abutting against the discharge door 175. However, when the guide member 162 is in the guided state, another member is used. May be configured to displace, and the discharge door 175 may be closed by the other member.

(16) In the situation where the game ball is full in the discharge passage HT, even if the variable winning unit 151 is in the open state, the variable winning unit 151 cannot be won, but the variable winning unit 151 It is not necessary to depend on the state of the discharge passage HT as long as the winning of the variable winning unit 151 is restricted by an event other than the closing state. For example, a distribution device is provided on the upstream side of the variable winning unit 151, and the distribution device is displaced between a mode of distributing the game ball to the variable winning unit 151 side and a mode of distributing the game ball to a region different from the variable winning unit 151. The configuration is possible. Then, even if the variable winning unit 151 is in the open state, the variable winning unit 151 may be restricted from winning unless the distribution destination of the sorting device is on the variable winning unit 151 side.

(17) In the ball jam determination process, the ball jam determination is not performed when seven or more game balls are inserted in each round, but the number may be eight or more. , May be less than 7. By setting the number of discharge passage HTs to be close to the full state (10 pieces), the range for determining ball clogging is widened, while by setting the number to be close to the empty state (0 pieces), the ball is clogged. It is possible to suppress an event that is mistaken for.

(18) In the configuration in which the whole ball is not discharged from the discharge passage HT by shortening the waiting time between rounds as in the second embodiment, the number of game balls remaining without being discharged is determined by the behavior of the game ball. Can change. In other words, if the waiting time is set to the period during which only 9 pieces can be ejected, 10 whole balls may be ejected depending on the behavior of the game ball. Therefore, by increasing the difference from the global discharge period, for example, the period in which 7 pieces can be discharged and 8 pieces cannot be discharged, the event that the game ball remains in the discharge passage HT is realized more reliably. can do.

(19) Although the discharge passage HT is formed as a curved passage, it may be a straight passage. In this case, the passage length of the discharge passage HT is the length of the maximum number of game balls that can be accommodated, but it is possible to suppress the occurrence of ball clogging or the like in the curved portion as compared with the configuration having the curved portion.

(20) In the discharge passage HT, the game balls after winning the variable winning unit 151 can be stored, but the game balls before winning may be stored. For example, an entrance door and an exit door may be provided in a predetermined passage portion (for example, a warp passage), and a predetermined number of game balls may be accommodated in the area between the doors. By doing so, it is possible to manage the number of passing pieces of the predetermined number of passing portions as a predetermined number even for the game ball before winning a prize.

(21) In the variable winning unit 151, the door portion 165 is arranged so as to cover the large winning opening 32, which is the entrance of the discharge passage HT, from the outside of the discharge passage HT, but is provided inside the discharge passage HT. It may be configured to be. That is, the door portion 165 may be provided on the upstream side and the discharge door 175 may be provided on the downstream side inside the discharge passage HT.

(22) The length of the opening time and the ending time of the opening / closing execution mode may be set in relation to the time required for discharging the game balls stored in the discharge passage HT. Specifically, it is preferable to set the opening time and the ending time to be longer than the time required to discharge the maximum number (10) of the game balls stored in the discharge passage HT. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the number of stored balls in one open / close execution mode from affecting the number of balls entered in the other open / close execution modes. In addition, as a flow when the opening / closing execution mode is continuous, considering that the opening of the next opening / closing execution mode is performed after the ending of one opening / closing execution mode, the opening of the next opening / closing execution mode is performed, and the length of the ending and the interval. It suffices if the total of the length of the game times and the length of the opening is set to be longer than the time required to eject all the game balls. In other words, even if the ending or opening is short, if the length of the game times sandwiched between them is long, it is possible to eject all the game balls by the start of the first round of the next open / close execution mode. be.

On the contrary, the number of stored balls in one open / close execution mode may affect the number of balls entered in the other open / close execution modes. That is, if the total of the length of the ending, the length of the game times between, and the length of the opening is set to be shorter than the time required to eject all the game balls, one open / close execution mode. The first round of the next opening / closing execution mode is started in a state where all the game balls stored in the above are not discharged.

(23) In the configuration in which the closing time between rounds in the open / close execution mode is shortened to generate an event in which the game ball is not ejected from the discharge passage HT, the first result is displayed in the second embodiment. Whether or not the above-mentioned event occurs is different between the unit AS and the second result display unit BS, but whether or not the above-mentioned event occurs may be different depending on the game result. For example, the above-mentioned event may not occur in the probabilistic jackpot result, but may occur in the normal jackpot result, or vice versa. Further, it may be configured to determine whether or not the above event occurs by lottery or the like. Further, the length of the closing time itself may be determined by lottery or the like.

(24) Although the round display unit RS is provided, the configuration may be such that the round display unit RS is not provided. By doing so, in the fourth embodiment, it is possible to make it more difficult to understand whether the open / close execution mode is based on the special deviation result or the open / close execution mode based on the unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result.

(25) The discharge door 175 is closed by the guide member 162 in the guided state and abutting against the discharge door 175. However, when the guide member 162 is in the guided state, the discharge door 175 is closed. May be in the open state, and the induction member 162 may be in the non-induction state, so that the discharge door 175 may be in the closed state.

(26) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the upper limit opening period and the upper limit winning number in each round may be different. By doing so, the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage HT changes during each round. That is, for example, in a round game in which at least one of a short upper limit opening period and a small upper limit winning number is set, the number of winnings to the large winning opening 32 during the round game may be reduced. Then, even if the interval period of the short-term mode is set at the end of the round game, an event may occur in which no remaining balls are generated in the discharge passage HT or even if remaining balls are generated, the number of remaining balls is small. Further, when the round game after the interval period of the short-term mode is set is a round game in which at least one of the short upper limit opening period and the small upper limit winning number is set, the short-term mode is used. Even if an interval period is set and residual balls are generated, an event may occur in which sufficient game balls cannot be stored in the next round game. When these events occur, there may be no overlap between the period in which the game ball is ejected and the period in which the distribution control of the distribution unit 301 is performed in the subsequent interval period, and V winning may not occur. Therefore, the mechanism of generating the V prize can be made more diverse.

(27) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the distribution cycle of the distribution unit 301 is an example, and is not limited to the above. However, in the normal discharge period, it is preferable that the distribution cycle is such that the overlap with the distribution control does not occur and the overlap with the distribution control occurs when a predetermined number of remaining spheres are generated.

(28) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the distribution cycle of the distribution unit 301 is such that the measurement for a predetermined period is started based on the fact that the large prize opening 32 is closed, but the large prize is won. The measurement may be started for a predetermined period based on the opening of the mouth 32, or the measurement for a predetermined period may be started based on the start of the opening / closing execution mode. However, in these cases, the timing of the closed state differs depending on the progress of each round game, so when determining whether or not a V prize is generated depending on the relationship with the discharge period of the stored game balls. Misalignment may occur. Therefore, for example, it is advisable to add a configuration such as preventing spilled balls from occurring so that each round game has a progress speed as set.

(29) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the distribution unit 301 is configured to control distribution once, but may be configured to control distribution multiple times. Further, as a configuration in which V winning does not occur, a configuration in which distribution control is performed in a short period of time at a timing overlapping with the discharge period of a normal number (10 pieces) may be used. By doing so, it is possible to play the game with a faint expectation that a V prize may occur, and it is possible to secure the degree of expectation for the game.

(30) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the configuration of the distribution unit 301 is not limited to the above, and may be a configuration of distributing to the branch passage BT by another configuration. For example, the configuration may change between a mode in which the inlet of the branch passage BT is moved and a mode in which the branch passage BT is derived and a mode in which the branch passage BT is not derived.

(31) In the tenth to thirteenth embodiments, the following may be used in place of or in addition to the distribution by the distribution unit 301. That is, at the branch position with the branch passage BT, a distribution means for distributing to the branch passage BT and the discharge side is provided for each predetermined number. For example, as a predetermined number, 15 pieces, which is larger than the upper limit winning number of round games, are set. In this case, if the number of ejected balls is 10, all the game balls are ejected to the ejected side, and if the number of ejected balls is 15 or more, the balls are also distributed to the branch passage BT side. If the predetermined number is reset for each round, the number of discharged pieces in one round does not affect the number of discharged pieces in the next round.

(32) In the tenth embodiment, as the type of the interval period, a medium-term mode is provided in addition to the long-term mode and the short-term mode, and the first result display unit side and the second result depend on the presence or absence of the medium-term mode. Although the configuration is such that the advantage is different from that of the display unit side, a configuration may not be provided for a medium period. In this case, the advantage may be different by changing the ratio between the long-term mode and the short-term mode. Further, as a configuration in which the medium-term mode is provided, the ratio between the long-term mode and the short-term mode may be different. Further, an interval period other than these may be provided.

(33) In the tenth embodiment, the interval period in the short-term mode or the medium-term mode is set to the interval period immediately before the final round, but the interval period is not limited to immediately before the final round and is set in another interval period. You may. In this case, after the interval period of the short-term mode or the medium-term mode, the interval period of the long-term mode may be set.

(34) In the eleventh embodiment, the length of the closing time is drawn by lot at the start of each interval, but the lottery may be performed at the start of the open / close execution mode. Further, the lottery may be performed during the round game.

(35) In the eleventh embodiment, the winning probability of the lottery having a long or short closing time may be changed by the intervention of the player. For example, an operation unit such as a button that can be operated by the player is provided, and points are given according to the operation mode of the operation unit. Then, the length of the closing time is determined based on the point. In addition, it is preferable that the points have a structure that does not affect the game result at the time of the big hit lottery or the big hit.

(36) In the eleventh embodiment, the winning probability of the lottery having a long or short closing time may be changed depending on the rate of entry into another entry section or the like. For example, points are awarded based on the winning of the general winning opening 31. Then, the length of the closing time is determined based on the point. In addition, it is preferable that the points have a structure that does not affect the game result at the time of the big hit lottery or the big hit.

(37) In the eleventh embodiment, the length of the interval period determined by lottery is not limited to the long-term mode and the short-term mode, and may be configured to include an interval period of another length.

(38) In the eleventh embodiment, in one lottery opportunity, the length of the interval period before that may affect the lottery result. Specifically, for example, after the interval period of the short-term mode is set, the interval period of the long-term mode is easy to be set, the interval period of the short-term mode is easy to be continuous, and the interval period of the long-term mode is easy to be set. After the setting, the interval period of the short-term mode may be easily set, the interval period of the long-term mode may be continuous, and the like.

(39) In the twelfth embodiment, the number of rounds of each jackpot result is not limited to that of the above embodiment. Further, the number of rounds may be set so that there is no round in which the maximum number of winning game balls cannot be won.

(40) In the twelfth embodiment, the number of remaining spheres that can occur in the interval period of each jackpot result is not limited to the above (1). For example, it may be configured so that more than the above can remain.

(41) In the twelfth embodiment, the interval periods in one open / close execution mode may be different, and the interval period of each jackpot result may be the same in the different states.

(42) In the thirteenth embodiment, each round game is configured to be alternately performed by the first variable winning unit 201 and the second variable winning unit 202, but at least the round game of the first variable winning unit 201. → Round game of the second variable winning unit 202 → If the unit of the order of the round game of the first variable winning unit 201 is included, the round game on the second variable winning unit 202 side is performed while the first variable winning unit 201 is being discharged. It is possible to end early and cause an event to increase the number of ejected first variable winning units 201.

(43) In the thirteenth embodiment, a first passage and a second passage different from the first passage are provided on the upstream side of the second variable winning unit 202 in the game area PE. The passage length and the like are set so that the game ball requires a first period to pass through the first passage and a second period longer than the first period to pass through the second passage. In this way, the period until the game ball reaches the second variable winning unit 202 differs depending on whether the first passage or the second passage is passed, and the round in the second variable winning unit 202. It may be possible to reach the maximum number of winnings at an early stage in a game. That is, if there is only one flow path to the second variable winning unit 202, the duration of the round game is unlikely to be shorter than the product of the firing cycle and the upper limit winning number, but if there are multiple flow paths. , Due to the variation in the flow, it may be shorter than the product of the firing cycle and the maximum number of winnings.

(44) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiments, for example, a pachinko machine in which the electric accessory is opened a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of the special device, or a game in a specific area of the special device. The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine in which a right is generated when a ball enters and becomes a big hit, a pachinko machine equipped with other accessories, an arrange ball machine, a game machine such as a sparrow ball, and the like.

In addition, a non-bullet type gaming machine, for example, a plurality of reels having a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction is provided, the reels are started to rotate by inserting medals and operating the start lever, and the stop switch is operated. Or, after the reel has stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed, if a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on the effective line that can be visually recognized from the display window, a privilege such as paying out a medal is given to the player. The present invention can also be applied to slot machines.

Further, a pachinko machine and a slot machine equipped with a take-in device, in which a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are taken in by the take-in device and then the start lever is operated to start the rotation of the reel. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which and is fused.

<About the invention group extracted from the above-described embodiment>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described while showing the effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for the sake of easy understanding, the corresponding configurations in each of the above embodiments are appropriately shown in parentheses or the like, but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the parentheses or the like.

It should be noted that the invention described in each of the following features is known as "a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, which is provided with a variable winning device as a ball-filling portion provided in a gaming area (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003). The background technique of "-325811") was made with the problem that the invention of "Here, in a gaming machine, a device for increasing the attention to the game is desired" is to be solved. ..

<Characteristic A group>
Features A1. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
Variable entry means (door portion 165) that can be switched between a state in which a game ball can enter the predetermined ball entry portion and a state in which the game ball cannot enter or cannot enter the ball. When,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage HT.
A variable discharge means (discharge door 175) provided in the discharge passage and capable of switching between a dischargeable state in which the game ball can be discharged and a discharge non-dischargeable state in which the game ball cannot be discharged.
Equipped with
A first means (a function of executing a large winning opening opening process by the main control device 81) capable of making the variable discharge means into the discharge impossible state when the variable ball entry means is in the ball entry enable state. A gaming machine characterized by being equipped.

According to the above configuration, when the variable ball entry means is in a state in which the ball can enter and the ball can enter a predetermined ball entry portion, the variable discharge means is in a state in which the ball cannot be discharged. In this case, although it is possible to enter the predetermined ball entry portion, the ball cannot be discharged, and the game ball that has entered stays in the discharge passage. By doing so, for example, the game ball staying in the discharge passage may be used to limit the entry of the subsequent game ball, or to cause a change in the behavior of the subsequent game ball. It becomes possible and can contribute to the diversification of games. As a result, the degree of attention to the game can be suitably increased.

Feature A2. A second means (a function of executing a large winning opening closing process by the main control device 81) capable of making the variable discharge means into the discharge enable state when the variable ball entry means becomes the ball incapable state. The gaming machine according to feature A1, which is characterized by being provided.

According to the above configuration, when the variable ball entry means is in a state where the ball can enter, the game ball that has entered stays in the discharge passage, and when the variable ball entry means is in a state where the ball cannot enter, the game ball that has stayed is discharged. .. By doing so, it is possible to secure the function of ejecting the game ball while having the function of fastening the game ball in the discharge passage. Since the variable entry means is in a non-entry state when the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage, the game ball cannot pass through either the variable entry means or the variable discharge means in the discharge passage ( It is in a state where it cannot flow in or is not discharged. In this way, when diversifying the game by using the discharge passage, the game machine can manage the inflow / discharge timing of the game balls in the discharge passage.

Feature A3. The variable ball entry means is displaced to a ball entry position when the ball can be entered, and is displaced to a ball entry position different from the ball entry position when the ball entry is not possible. It has a displacement member (guidance member 162) and has.
The variable discharge means is a discharge displacement member (discharge door 175) that is displaced to a dischargeable position when the discharge is possible, and is displaced to a discharge non-discharge position different from the dischargeable position when the discharge is not possible. Have,
When the ball entry displacement member is displaced to the ball entry possible position, the displacement of the discharge displacement member from the discharge non-dischargeable position to the discharge possible position is restricted via the ball entry displacement member or a member different from the ball entry displacement member. The gaming machine according to the feature A1 or the feature A2, which is characterized in that the configuration is the same.

According to the above configuration, when the ball entry displacement member is displaced, the displacement of the discharge displacement member is restricted, so that the displacement between the ball entry displacement member and the discharge displacement member can be performed by one drive unit or the like. Therefore, the configuration can be simplified as compared with the configuration in which the drive unit or the like for displacement is provided.

Feature A4. When the ball entry displacement member is displaced to the ball entry possible position, the ball entry displacement member or a member different from the ball entry displacement member is displaced from the direction opposite to the direction in which the discharge displacement member is displaced to the discharge possible position. The gaming machine according to feature A3, which is configured to be in contact with the vehicle to regulate the displacement of the discharge displacement member.

According to the above configuration, when the ball entry displacement member is brought into contact with the ball entry displacement member from the direction opposite to the displacement direction of the discharge displacement member, even if the discharge displacement member tries to be displaced, the ball entry displacement member becomes an obstacle and cannot be displaced. By utilizing the positional relationship between the two members in this way, it is possible to standardize the drive unit with a relatively simple configuration.

Feature A5. The discharge passage is configured to be capable of storing up to a predetermined number (10) of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion by setting the variable discharge means into the discharge impossible state. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A1 to A4.

According to the above configuration, the game balls entered from the predetermined entry portion are stored in the discharge passage up to a predetermined number on condition that the variable discharge means cannot be discharged. In other words, more than a predetermined number of game balls cannot be stored in the discharge passage. By doing so, for example, it is possible to limit the number of balls that can enter a predetermined ball entry portion.

Feature A6. The discharge passage is configured to allow one game ball to pass through, and the passage length from the variable entry means to the variable discharge means in the discharge passage is equal to or less than the diameter of the predetermined number of game balls. The gaming machine according to feature A5, which is characterized in that it is set to be.

According to the above configuration, the number of pieces stored in the discharge passage can be easily adjusted by adjusting the passage length of the discharge passage. For example, if it is desired to increase the number of stored pieces, the discharge passage may be lengthened, and if it is desired to be reduced, the discharge passage may be shortened. Therefore, in order to diversify the game by changing the number of stored machines, only a simple change is required, which is preferable in the design of the game machine.

Feature A7. The gaming machine according to feature A6, wherein the discharge passage is formed as a curved passage having a curved portion.

According to the above configuration, in the curved portion, the game balls come into contact with each other at a portion shorter than the diameter, so that the passage length of the discharge passage can be made shorter than the length of a predetermined number. Therefore, it is possible to store more game balls in a limited area.

Feature A8. With a specific game execution means (a function of executing a game state transition process by the main control device 81) capable of executing a specific game (round) in which a ball is likely to enter the variable ball entry means based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. ,
In the specific game, one condition is that a specific number of game balls have entered the variable ball entry means, and the specific game end means (the large winning opening is closed by the main control device 81) to end the specific game. Function to execute processing) and
Equipped with
The gaming machine according to any one of features A5 to A7, wherein the predetermined number of machines stored in the discharge passage is set to be equal to or less than the specific number of machines.

According to the above configuration, by setting the number of balls that can be stored in the discharge passage to be equal to or less than the specific number, which is the end condition of the specific game, it is possible to prevent the number of game balls exceeding the specific number from entering in the specific game. .. As a result, the benefits and the like obtained by the specific game (for example, the prize ball based on the entry ball) can be made equal, and the fairness of the game can be ensured.

Feature A9. With a specific game execution means (a function of executing a game state transition process by the main control device 81) capable of executing a specific game (round) in which a ball is likely to enter the variable ball entry means based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition. ,
In the specific game, one condition is that a specific number of game balls have entered the variable ball entry means, and the specific game end means (the large winning opening is closed by the main control device 81) to end the specific game. Function to execute processing) and
Equipped with
The gaming machine according to any one of features A5 to A7, wherein the predetermined number of machines stored in the discharge passage is set to the specific number.

According to the above configuration, by setting the number that can be stored in the discharge passage to the specific number that is the end condition of the specific game, the specific number can be set in the specific game as long as the entry of the game ball during the specific game is not hindered. It is possible to prevent a game ball that exceeds the number from entering. As a result, the benefits and the like obtained by the specific game (for example, the prize ball based on the entry ball) can be made equal, and the fairness of the game can be ensured.

Feature A10. Based on the end of the specific game, the variable ball entry means is in the ball entry impossible state, and the variable discharge means is in the discharge enable state.
It is provided with a setting means (a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81) for setting a waiting period from the end of one specific game to the start of the next specific game.
The setting means sets the waiting period to a period longer than the period required for one gaming ball to be discharged via the variable discharging means (the closing time by the main control device 81). The gaming machine according to feature A8 or feature A9, which is provided with a function of setting a long-time standby time in the setting process).

According to the above configuration, it is possible to discharge the game ball from the discharge passage between the specific game and the specific game. Therefore, even if, for example, a specific number of game balls are stored during one specific game and the specific game ends, there may be room for the game balls to enter in the next specific game. can.

Feature A11. The first setting means can set the waiting period to a period longer than the period required for the specific number of gaming balls to be discharged via the variable discharging means (main control device 81). The gaming machine according to feature A10, characterized in that it is provided with a function of executing processing such as step S702 according to the above.

According to the above configuration, even if a specific number of game balls are stored during one specific game, all the game balls can be discharged before the start of the next specific game. It is possible to prevent the number of balls entered in a specific game from being affected.

Feature A12. Based on the end of the specific game, the variable ball entry means is in the ball entry impossible state, and the variable discharge means is in the discharge enable state.
It is provided with a setting means (a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81) for setting a waiting period from the end of one specific game to the start of the next specific game.
The setting means sets the waiting period to a period shorter than the period required for the specific number of gaming balls to be discharged via the variable discharging means (step S703 by the main control device 81). , The gaming machine according to any one of features A8 to A11, characterized in that it is provided with a function of executing the process of step S1203.

According to the above configuration, when a specific number of game balls are stored during one specific game, all the game balls cannot be discharged before the start of the next specific game, and the next specific game It affects the number of balls entered. Specifically, for example, if one piece remains without being discharged, the number of balls that can be entered in the next specific game is the number obtained by dividing the specific number by the remaining one piece that was not discharged. .. By doing so, it is possible to change the actual number of balls that can be entered in the next specific game without changing the setting of the specific number of balls that can be entered in each specific game.

Feature A13. The second setting means sets the waiting period to a period shorter than the period required for one gaming ball to be discharged via the variable discharging means (process of step S1203 by the main control device 81). The gaming machine according to the feature A12, which is characterized by having a function of executing the above.

According to the above configuration, the number of balls entered in one specific game can be carried over to the next specific game. Specifically, for example, if one ball is inserted in one specific game, the game ball is not discharged during the waiting period until the next specific game, so that one game ball is until the start of the next specific game. It will remain. Then, the number of balls that can be entered in the next specific game is the number obtained by dividing the number of balls that remained without being discharged from the specific number. By doing so, it is possible to change the actual number of balls that can be entered in the next specific game without changing the setting of the specific number of balls that can be entered in each specific game.

Feature A14. A detection means (winning sensor 32a for a large winning opening) for detecting that a game ball has entered the predetermined entry portion is provided.
1. The detection means according to any one of features A1 to A13, wherein the detection means is provided in the discharge passage on the downstream side of the variable ball entry means and on the upstream side of the variable discharge means. Gaming machine.

In a configuration such as A1 in which the game ball may stay in the discharge passage, a difference may occur between the timing of entering the ball into the predetermined entry portion and the timing of discharge from the discharge passage. Therefore, if the detection means is provided on the upstream side of the variable discharge means, it is possible to detect the ball entry without being affected by the deviation between the ball entry timing and the discharge timing.

Feature A15. The gaming machine according to feature A14, wherein a suppressing means (return prevention valve 178) for suppressing the movement of the gaming ball toward the detecting means is provided on the downstream side of the detecting means.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to avoid an event in which the game ball once detected by the detection means moves to the detection means side again and is detected again. Therefore, it is possible for the gaming machine to accurately grasp the number of balls entering a predetermined ball entry portion.

Feature A16. When the movement toward the detection means is suppressed by the suppression means, the operable position of the game ball toward the detection means side is downstream from the position where the game ball is detected by the detection means. The gaming machine according to feature A15, wherein the gaming ball is in a position where the succeeding gaming ball can be prevented from being detected by the detection means when the gaming ball comes into contact with the succeeding gaming ball. ..

According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of the subsequent game ball while preventing duplication detection by the detection means.

Feature A17. It is characterized by being provided with a guiding means (receiving portion 163) that receives a game ball flowing down from a direction intersecting the direction in which the game ball flows into the variable ball entry means and guides the game ball to the variable ball entry means. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A1 to A16.

According to the above configuration, the ball enters the variable ball entry means in a state where the flow direction is changed by the guiding means. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the flow speed of the game ball when entering the variable ball entry means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the game ball after entering the ball is fastened in the discharge passage, the impact when the fastened game ball collides with the subsequent game ball can be softened, which is inconvenient based on the movement of the game ball at the time of collision. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of (erroneous discharge, duplication detection, etc.).

Feature A18. The variable discharge means is provided with a means (second discharge door 175b) for restricting the passage of the game ball through the variable discharge means when the maintenance period of the discharge enable state is less than a predetermined period. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A1 to A17.

According to the above configuration, even if the variable discharge means is in a dischargeable state, the discharge can be restricted if it is less than a predetermined period. By doing so, for example, in a configuration in which the variable discharge means is displaced according to the displacement of the variable ball entry means, it is possible to prevent the influence of the displacement on the variable ball entry means side in a short period of time. can. Therefore, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom of operation of the variable ball entry means and the variable discharge means, and greatly contribute to the diversification of the game.

Feature A19. The discharge passage has a configuration capable of storing up to a predetermined number of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion by the variable discharge means in the discharge impossible state.
It is provided with a determination means (a function of executing a ball clogging determination process by the main control device 81) capable of determining ball clogging in the discharge passage.
The determination means is any one of the features A1 to A18, which is characterized in that the determination means is configured so as not to determine that the ball is clogged based on the number of stored balls in the discharge passage being a predetermined number. The gaming machine according to 1.

According to the above configuration, in the configuration in which the game balls are stored in the discharge passage, the determination condition of whether the ball is clogged or stored can be changed depending on the number of stored balls. Therefore, it is possible to suitably discriminate similar events such as ball clogging and storage.

<Characteristic B group>
Feature B1. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage HT.
By a first storage means (for example, a main control device 81) capable of storing a first number (for example, 10) of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion in the discharge passage in a predetermined period (round). Function to set the waiting time in a long time mode as the closing time setting process),
A second storage means (for example, 9) capable of storing a second number (for example, 9) different from the first number in the discharge passage for the game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion during the predetermined period. (A function to set the standby time in a short time mode as the closing time setting process by the main controller 81) and
A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the above configuration, a game ball that has entered a predetermined entry portion may be stored in a discharge passage during a predetermined period. In this case, the number of storage differs depending on whether the storage is performed by the first storage means or the second storage means. By using such a configuration, for example, different effects can be performed according to the number of stored items, different benefits can be given, and new playability utilizing the different number of stored items can be achieved. It will be possible to realize. In this case, if the effect is different depending on the number of balls entered as in the conventional gaming machine, the rate of entry into a predetermined ball entry portion must be taken into consideration. The width tends to be small. On the other hand, since it is the number of stored balls after entering the ball, the ball entry rate and the like are less likely to be affected, and the barrier to the realization of novel playability is small. Therefore, if the above configuration is used, it is possible to suitably increase the degree of attention to the game.

Feature B2. When the first number of game balls are stored in the discharge passage by the first storage means, the game balls cannot enter the predetermined entry portion.
Described in feature B1 characterized in that the second storage means stores the second number of game balls in the discharge passage, so that the game balls cannot enter the predetermined entry portion. Pachinko machine.

According to the above configuration, the game ball can enter the predetermined ball entry portion regardless of whether the first number of game balls are stored or the second number of game balls are stored. It disappears, and the number of balls that can enter a predetermined ball entry portion in a predetermined period can be changed. That is, the number of balls that can be entered is changed by using the change in the number of stored balls, and if such a configuration is used, the degree of freedom in adjusting the number of balls that can be entered into a predetermined entry portion is increased. Greatly improved. Therefore, it is preferable for diversifying the game, and it is possible to preferably increase the degree of attention to the game.

Feature B3. The predetermined period is a period during which the game ball can easily enter the predetermined entry portion.
Based on the establishment of the predetermined end conditions (elapse of the upper limit opening time, winning of the upper limit winning number), the ending means for ending the predetermined period (the function of executing the large winning opening closing process by the main control device 81) ,
A setting means for setting the predetermined end condition (a function of executing processes such as step S505 and step S506 by the main control device 81) and
Equipped with
The setting means can set specific conditions (30 sec, 10 pieces) as the predetermined termination condition when the pachinko machines are stored by the first storage means, and when the pachinko machines are stored by the second pachinko machine. The gaming machine according to feature B2, wherein the specific condition can be set as the predetermined end condition.

According to the above configuration, as the end condition of the predetermined period in which the game ball is easily entered into the predetermined entry portion, the same end condition is applied to the case where the first number is stored and the case where the second number is stored. can do. By doing so, it is possible to change the number of balls that can be substantially entered into the predetermined ball entry portion during the predetermined period without changing the end condition of the predetermined period. Therefore, there are few points to be changed in order to diversify the game, and the degree of freedom of diversification can be greatly improved.

Feature B4. The setting means has a function of executing the process of step S506 by the first setting means (main control device 81) for setting the upper limit number of balls to be entered into the predetermined ball entry portion during the predetermined period as the predetermined end condition. ), And a second setting means (a function of executing the process of step S505 by the main control device 81) for setting a duration of the period during which the game ball is likely to enter the predetermined ball entry portion in the predetermined period. Equipped with
As the specific condition, at least the upper limit number of balls set by the first setting means is the same in the case of being stored by the first storage means and the case of being stored by the second storage means. The gaming machine according to feature B3, which is characterized in that it is set to.

According to the above configuration, as a condition for ending the predetermined period, the actual number of balls entered can be changed without changing the upper limit number of balls entered. In particular, since the actual number of balls entered differs due to an apparently easy-to-understand difference such as whether the first number is stored or the second number is stored, the difference due to the maximum number of balls entered on the gaming machine side is larger than the difference due to the maximum number of balls entered. It is easy for players to feel that fairness is guaranteed.

Feature B5. The setting means has a function of executing the process of step S506 by the first setting means (main control device 81) for setting the upper limit number of balls to be entered into the predetermined ball entry portion during the predetermined period as the predetermined end condition. ), And a second setting means (a function of executing the process of step S505 by the main control device 81) for setting a duration of the period during which the game ball is likely to enter the predetermined ball entry portion in the predetermined period. Equipped with
As the specific condition, at least the duration set by the second setting means is set to have the same length in the case of being stored by the first storage means and the case of being stored by the second storage means. The gaming machine according to feature B3, which is characterized in that it is used.

According to the above configuration, as a condition for ending the predetermined period, the actual number of balls entered can be changed without changing the length of the duration. In particular, since the actual number of balls entered differs due to an apparently easy-to-understand difference such as whether the first number is stored or the second number is stored, the game is more than the difference due to the length of the duration set on the gaming machine side. It is easy for the player to feel that the fairness of the game is guaranteed.

Feature B6. A region in which a game ball can be stored in the discharge passage depending on whether the first storage means stores the game ball in the discharge passage or the second storage means stores the game ball in the discharge passage. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B5, characterized in that the width of (the passage length of the discharge passage HT) does not change.

According to the above configuration, it is not necessary to change the configuration of the discharge passage regardless of whether the storage is performed by the first storage means or the second storage means. Therefore, it is possible to make different storage numbers with a relatively simple configuration.

Feature B7. A variable discharge means (discharge door 175) capable of displacing the game ball stored in the discharge passage into a dischargeable state capable of discharging the game ball and a non-dischargeable state capable of discharging the game ball is provided.
The variable discharging means is characterized in that the number of gaming balls stored in the discharging passage can be made different by changing the length of the period during which the discharging means is in the dischargeable state or the discharge impossible state. The gaming machine according to any one of the features B1 to B6.

According to the above configuration, the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage can be made different by making the length of the period during which the game balls are discharged / not discharged from the discharge passage different. By doing so, it is possible to make the number of balls stored in the discharge passage different without changing whether or not the ball can enter the predetermined ball entry portion.

Feature B8. It is characterized in that the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage in the predetermined period is different by changing the length of the period in which the discharge is possible at the timing before the predetermined period. The gaming machine according to the feature B7.

According to the above configuration, the length of the period for discharging the game balls stored before the predetermined period is different, and the number of stored games during the predetermined period can be different. Therefore, it is not necessary to change various settings (end conditions such as feature B3) of the predetermined period itself.

Feature B9. A detection means (winning sensor 32a for a large winning opening) for detecting that a game ball has entered the predetermined entry portion, and
A first privilege granting means (payout control device 97) capable of granting a predetermined first privilege (prize ball) based on the detection result by the detection means, and
A second privilege granting means (based on the main control device 81) capable of granting a predetermined second privilege (for example, a high probability mode based on the occurrence of a V prize) according to the number of game balls stored in the discharge passage. A function to execute the process for transition to the high probability mode) and
Equipped with
The second number is set as a number larger than the first number.
The second privilege granting means is such that the second number of game balls is stored in the discharge passage rather than the first number of game balls being stored in the discharge passage. The gaming machine according to any one of the features B1 to B8, which is characterized in that the structure is easy to apply.

According to the above configuration, not only the number of balls entering a predetermined ball entry portion but also the number of stored balls in the discharge passage can be noticed, and the degree of attention to the game can be suitably increased. In particular, in a general gaming machine, a first privilege such as a prize ball according to the number of balls entered is given, but the first privilege is given more as the number of balls entered increases. However, depending on the advantage of the first privilege (for example, in the case of one prize ball), an event may occur in which the player is not so happy no matter how many balls are entered. Therefore, although it is slightly related to the number of balls entered, if the second privilege is given according to the number of stored balls defined by another factor, the number of balls entered is large from various aspects. You can enjoy the benefits of that.

Feature B10. The second number is set as a number larger than the first number.
A predetermined branch passage (branch passage BT) that branches from the discharge passage is provided.
The case where the second number of game balls is stored by the second storage means is better than the case where the first number of game balls are stored by the first storage means. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B9, characterized in that the entered gaming ball is easily led out to the predetermined branch passage.

According to the above configuration, the derivation destination of the game ball entered differs depending on the number of stored balls. That is, it is easier to be derived to a predetermined branch passage when the second number of game balls is stored than when the first number of game balls are stored. Therefore, for example, based on the fact that the second number of game balls are stored in the predetermined branch passage. If the privilege is given, or conversely, the privilege is given if it is not derived to a predetermined branch passage, not only the number of stored items but also the behavior of the game ball based on the number of stored items should be interested. Is possible.

<Characteristic C group>
Features C1. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion from the game area, and a discharge passage (discharge passage HT).
A storage means (discharge door 175) capable of storing game balls in the discharge passage up to a predetermined number, and
Equipped with
In the discharge passage, when a specific number of game balls stored in the storage means come into contact with the subsequent game balls, the subsequent game balls are led out to a specific region different from the discharge passage. A gaming machine characterized in that it has a configuration capable of storing the specific number of gaming balls.

According to the above configuration, when a specific number of game balls are stored in the storage means, the specific number of game balls changes the flow direction of the subsequent game balls to a specific area different from the discharge passage. By doing so, for example, as compared with a configuration in which a distribution device or the like is provided to change the flow direction of the game balls, it is due to the action between the game balls, so that the behavior of the game balls can be fully enjoyed. It is possible to prevent the player from feeling that the gaming machine intentionally tries to change the flow direction, and the fairness of the game can be ensured.

Feature C2. The subsequent game ball is characterized in that the advantage for the player differs depending on whether the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage or the game ball is led out to the specific area. Feature The gaming machine described in C1.

According to the above configuration, the advantage to the player changes because the flow destination of the subsequent game balls changes depending on the specific number of game balls. By doing so, attention to the fact that a specific number of game balls are stored in the discharge passage is greatly increased. In particular, the discharge passage is provided outside the game area, and by configuring the structure so that even the game balls stored in such a discharge passage are noticed, there are a wide variety of points that attract the attention of the player. It will be possible to use it to improve the interest.

Feature C3. The gaming machine according to feature C2, characterized in that the case where the gaming ball is led out to the specific area is more advantageous for the player than the case where the gaming ball is ejected from the discharging passage.

According to the above configuration, the advantage for the player is improved by changing the flow destination of the subsequent game balls depending on the specific number of game balls. By doing so, attention to the fact that a specific number of game balls are stored in the discharge passage is greatly increased. In particular, the discharge passage is provided outside the game area, and by configuring the structure so that even the game balls stored in such a discharge passage are noticed, there are a wide variety of points that attract the attention of the player. It will be possible to use it to improve the interest.

Feature C4. The specific number is the same as the predetermined number,
The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C3, characterized in that the subsequent gaming balls cannot enter the predetermined entry portion due to the specific number of gaming balls.

According to the above configuration, by accumulating a specific number in the discharge passage, it becomes impossible to enter a predetermined ball entry portion. By doing so, it is possible to realize a novel game in which the possibility of entering a predetermined ball entry portion is changed by utilizing the storage of the game ball.

Feature C5. The specific area is set in the game area, and the specific area is set in the game area.
A specific entry section (special entry section 26) into which a game ball can enter is provided in the specific area.
The gaming machine according to feature C4, characterized in that it is provided with a means (payout control device 97) capable of giving a privilege to a player based on the fact that a gaming ball has entered the specific entry portion. ..

According to the above configuration, the number of balls entering the predetermined ball entry portion becomes a predetermined number, and even if the ball cannot enter the predetermined ball entry portion, the ball can be entered into the specific ball entry portion. In this way, a specific number of game balls are stored in a predetermined entry portion, and it is possible to change the entry destination by utilizing the event that the flow direction of the subsequent game balls changes, and the game is diversified. Can greatly contribute to.

Feature C6. The storage means is provided with means (a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81) capable of holding the state in which the specific number of game balls are stored for a predetermined period. The gaming machine according to the feature C4 or the feature C5.

According to the above configuration, the state in which the ball cannot enter the predetermined ball entry portion is maintained for a predetermined period. In such a situation, the game ball will flow down only to a specific area even if it aims at a predetermined ball entry portion. By utilizing such an event, it is possible to realize a new playability, for example, in a situation where the ball enters a specific ball entry portion as in the feature C5.

Feature C7. The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C6, characterized in that it is provided with a contact portion (return prevention valve 178) that comes into contact with the specific number of gaming balls from the upstream side of the discharge passage. ..

According to the above configuration, in a configuration on the premise that a specific number of game balls collide with a subsequent game ball, if the specific number of game balls are brought into contact with the contact portion, the collision causes the collision. It is possible to prevent a specific number of game balls from returning to the upstream side of the discharge passage. This makes it possible to avoid inconveniences such as the game ball flowing back from the predetermined ball entry portion.

Feature C8. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
A guide passage (discharge passage HT) for guiding the game ball that has entered the predetermined entry portion to the predetermined region, and
A storage means (discharge door 175) capable of storing game balls in the guide passage up to a predetermined number, and
Equipped with
The guide passage is such that the subsequent game balls are led out to a specific area different from the predetermined area by abutment of the specific number of game balls stored in the storage means with the subsequent game balls. , A gaming machine characterized in that it has a configuration capable of storing the specific number of gaming balls.

According to the above configuration, when a specific number of game balls are stored in the storage means, the specific number of game balls changes the flow direction of the subsequent game balls to a specific area different from the predetermined area. .. By doing so, for example, as compared with a configuration in which a distribution device or the like is provided to change the flow direction of the game balls, it is due to the action between the game balls, so that the behavior of the game balls can be fully enjoyed. It is possible to prevent the player from feeling that the gaming machine intentionally tries to change the flow direction, and the fairness of the game can be ensured.

Feature C9. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage HT.
A storage means (discharge door 175) capable of storing game balls in the discharge passage up to a predetermined number, and
By storing a specific number of game balls by the storage means, a changing means (a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81) capable of causing a change in the behavior of subsequent game balls, and
A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the above configuration, when a game ball is put into a predetermined ball entry portion, the game ball is stored in the storage means, and the behavior of the subsequent game ball may change. As a configuration that causes a change in the behavior of the game ball, for example, a configuration that uses a periodically moving accessory or the like can be considered, but since the motion is controlled by the gaming machine side even though it is a periodic motion, the behavior is changed. As a result, if the result is disadvantageous to the player, the player may feel distrust of the game. On the other hand, in the above configuration, since the behavior is changed by storing the game balls that the player himself has entered, it is possible to make it difficult to have a feeling of distrust as described above.

<Characteristic D group>
Feature D1. A variable ball entry means (variable winning unit) that is provided in the game area (game area PE) where the game ball flows down and can be displaced into an open state in which the game ball can enter and a closed state in which it is harder to enter than the open state. 151) and
A variable ball entry control means (a function of executing a large winning opening opening / closing process by the main control device 81) for executing variable ball entry control in which the variable ball entry means is changed from the closed state to the open state and then changed to the closed state. ,
Based on the occurrence of a specific event (big hit), the specific state setting means (game state by the main control device 81) that sets the game state to a specific state in which the variable ball entry control by the variable ball entry means can be executed a plurality of times. Function to execute migration process) and
In the specific state, a setting means for setting a waiting period from the open state to the closed state of the variable ball entry means (a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81). When,
Equipped with
The setting means can set the waiting period to a first period and a second period having a length different from that of the first period.
A privilege granting means capable of granting a privilege according to the length of the waiting period to the player (the longer the closing time, the larger the number of ejected balls and the larger the number of balls that can be entered in the next round, the main control. A function of executing the closing time setting process by the device 81, a function of executing the process of step S909 by the effect control device 82, a function of paying out the prize ball based on the ball entering the special ball entry unit 26 by the payout control device 97, A gaming machine characterized in that the more balls remaining, the higher the occurrence of V prizes).

According to the above configuration, when the game state shifts to the specific state, the game ball can enter the variable ball entry means. Therefore, it can be said that the specific state is a point where the player's interest is greatly increased. On the other hand, even in a specific state, it is considered that the waiting period in which the variable ball entry means is closed is relatively low in interest because it is difficult for the variable ball entry means to enter the ball. Therefore, if the player is given a privilege according to the length of the waiting period as in the above configuration, it is possible to draw the player's attention even during the waiting period in which the ball does not enter, and the player is in a specific state. The degree of attention can be greatly increased.

Feature D2. The privilege granting means is a first means capable of granting the privilege so that the longer the waiting period is, the more advantageous the player is. The gaming machine according to feature D1, which is characterized by having a large number of machines and having a function of executing a closing time setting process by the main control device 81).

According to the above configuration, the longer the closed state in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the variable ball entry means, the more advantageous it is for the player. By doing so, it is possible to avoid an event in which interest is reduced during the closed period.

Feature D3. When the variable ball entry means is in the open state, the number of game balls that can enter the variable ball entry means is set as a predetermined number.
The privilege-giving means is characterized in that the longer the waiting period, the larger the predetermined number of the variable ball-entry means when the variable ball-entry means is opened, thereby granting the privilege. The gaming machine according to the feature D2.

According to the above configuration, the longer the waiting period, the larger the maximum number of balls that can be entered when the variable ball entry means is opened next time. By doing so, it is possible to associate the variable ball entry means with the number of balls entered into the variable ball entry means in both the open state and the closed state, and the variable ball entry means can be opened and closed. It is possible to suitably increase the degree of attention to.

Feature D4. The privilege granting means is a second means (a function of executing the process of step S909 by the effect control device 82, a payout control device) capable of granting the privilege so that the shorter the waiting period is, the more advantageous the player is. The gaming machine according to feature D1, which is characterized by having a function of paying out a prize ball based on a ball entering the special ball entry unit 26 by 97).

According to the above configuration, if the period in which the game ball is in a closed state in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the variable ball entry means is short, the game ball will be in the open state immediately, which is preferable for the player. Further, the shorter the waiting period, the more advantageous benefits are given, which can be more preferable for the player.

Feature D5. The gaming machine according to feature D4, wherein the shorter the waiting period, the smaller the number of balls entering the variable ball entry means.

According to the above configuration, the shorter the waiting period, the smaller the number of balls entering the variable ball entry means. In this case, the number of prize balls and the like obtained based on the entry of balls may be small. On the other hand, since other benefits are given by the second means, it is possible to guarantee that the number of balls entered into the variable ball entry means is reduced by the benefits given by the second means.

Feature D6. A specific entry section (special entry section 26, etc.) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball is provided.
The gaming machine according to feature D5, wherein the privilege granting means is configured to grant the privilege by improving the ball entry rate to the specific ball entry portion as the waiting period is shorter.

According to the above configuration, the shorter the waiting period, the higher the ball entry rate to the specific ball entry section, which is different from the variable ball entry means. By doing so, even if the number of balls entering the variable ball entry means is small, it can be secured by entering the ball into another entry portion, and the configuration of the feature D5 can be suitably realized.

Feature D7. A storage means (discharge passage HT) capable of storing game balls that have entered the variable ball entry means is provided.
The storage means is configured to discharge the game balls stored during the standby period.
The second means is characterized in that the shorter the waiting period, the smaller the number of game balls to be discharged, so that the privilege can be given to the player in an advantageous manner. The gaming machine according to any one of the features D4 to D6.

According to the above configuration, the shorter the waiting period, the smaller the number of sheets discharged from the storage means. In this case, for example, in a configuration in which a privilege is given by passing a game ball discharged from a storage means through a predetermined passing portion, a larger number of gaming balls are discharged and pass through the predetermined passing portion. It is thought that it will be easier to do. On the other hand, in the above configuration, the smaller the number of discharged machines, the more advantageous it is, so that the idea is completely opposite to that of the conventional gaming machine. Therefore, a novel game playability can be realized, and the degree of attention to the game can be suitably increased.

Feature D8. The privilege granting means
The above-mentioned privilege is given when a predetermined event occurs.
The first means that the privilege can be given so that the player has an advantage as the waiting period is longer (the longer the closing time, the larger the number of ejected balls and the larger the number of balls that can be entered in the next round). , A function to execute the closing time setting process by the main controller 81),
A second means (a function of executing the process of step S909 by the effect control device 82, a special ball entry unit by the payout control device 97) capable of imparting the privilege so that the shorter the waiting period is, the more advantageous the player is. A function to pay out prize balls based on entering the ball in 26) and
Equipped with
The configuration in which the predetermined event that triggers the privilege grant differs between the case where the privilege is given by the first means and the case where the privilege is given by the second means (the first means is a big prize). The gaming machine according to feature D1, characterized in that a prize is generated in the mouth 32 and a second means is a prize in the special ball-entry portion 26).

According to the above configuration, the first means, which is preferable when the waiting period is long, and the second means, which is preferable when the waiting period is short, can coexist. With such a configuration, it is possible to attract a high degree of interest in the length of the waiting period, and it is possible to realize new playability.

The configuration limited to any one of the features D2 to D7 may be applied to the feature D8.

<Characteristic E group>
Features E1. The first ball entry section (large winning opening 32), which is provided in the game area (game area PE) where the game ball flows down and allows the game ball to enter,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging the game ball that has entered the first ball entry portion,
A storage means (discharge door 175) capable of storing up to a predetermined number of game balls in the discharge passage, and
Equipped with
The game area is provided with a second ball entry section (general winning opening 31) in which a game ball can enter and is different from the first entry section.
The passage for discharging the game ball that has entered the second ball entry section merges with the discharge passage, so that the storage means stores the game ball that has entered the second ball entry section as well. A gaming machine characterized by having a configuration capable of

According to the above configuration, in the configuration in which the game balls that have entered the first ball entry section are stored in the storage means, the game balls that have entered the second ball entry section are also stored in the storage means. With such a configuration, for example, when the number of balls entering the first ball entry section is managed by the number of stored balls stored in the storage means, the entry into the second entry section as well as the first entry section is performed. It can be managed by the number including the number of balls. Therefore, it is possible to manage the total number of balls entered by a plurality of ball entry portions, and it is possible to easily manage the ball ejection rate. In addition, for example, in a configuration in which different benefits are given depending on the ball entry section, there is a great deal of interest in which entry section the ball enters, and the total number of entry points is as described above. If is managed, the interest in the ball entry part will be further increased.

Feature E2. The first privilege (15 prize balls) is given based on the fact that the game ball has entered the first entry section, and the first is based on the entry of the game ball into the second entry section. The privilege is described in the feature E1 characterized by being provided with a privilege granting means (payout control device 97) capable of granting a second privilege (10 prize balls) having a different advantage to the player. Amusement machine.

According to the above configuration, the storage destination by the storage means is common between the case where the game ball that has entered the first ball entry section is stored and the case where the game ball that has entered the second ball entry section is stored. However, the advantage for the player differs depending on which entry part the ball is entered into. With such a configuration, while managing the total number of balls entered on the gaming machine side, it is possible to add playability such as which entry part to enter, which greatly contributes to the diversification of games. can do.

Feature E3. The first privilege (15 prize balls) is given based on the fact that the game ball has entered the first entry section, and the first is based on the entry of the game ball into the second entry section. The privilege is a privilege granting means (payout control device 97) capable of granting a second privilege (10 prize balls) having a low advantage for the player, and
The feature E1 or the feature E1 is characterized in that a specific event (for example, V winning) that is advantageous to the player is likely to occur by storing the gaming ball that has entered from the second entry portion in the storage means. Feature The gaming machine described in E2.

According to the above configuration, considering that the first privilege that it is more advantageous to enter the ball into the first ball entry portion is given and that the upper limit of the number of stored pieces is set as a predetermined number, all of them are the first. 1 It seems preferable to store the ball in the storage means by entering the ball from the ball entry section. On the other hand, when the game ball entered from the second entry portion is stored, a specific event is likely to occur. Therefore, it is preferable to generate the entry into the second entry portion as well. By doing so, it is meaningful to enter the ball into each entry section, and it is possible to suitably realize a game such as which entry section the ball is to enter by using the configuration in which the discharge passages merge.

Feature E4. When the first number of game balls is stored in the storage means and the game balls entering from the second entry portion are stored in the storage means, and what is the first number in the storage means? The probability of occurrence of the specific event is different depending on whether the game balls entering from the second entry portion are stored in the storage means in a situation where a different second number of game balls are stored. The gaming machine according to the feature E3.

According to the above configuration, the player can be made to select which entry portion to enter the ball in consideration of the entry timing to the second entry portion. By doing so, the playability is further improved, and it becomes possible to use it for improving the interest.

<Characteristic F group>
Features F1. A variable ball entry means (variable winning unit) that is provided in the game area (game area PE) where the game ball flows down and can be displaced into an open state in which the game ball can enter and a closed state in which it is harder to enter than the open state. 151) and
A variable ball entry control means (a function of executing a large winning opening opening / closing process by the main control device 81) for executing variable ball entry control in which the variable ball entry means is changed from the closed state to the open state and then changed to the closed state. ,
A regulating means (discharge door 175) capable of restricting the entry of the game ball until a specific condition (discharge of the game ball) different from that of the variable entry means being in the open state is satisfied.
Equipped with
A gaming machine characterized by having a plurality of variable ball entry means.

According to the above configuration, even when the variable ball entry means is in the open state, entry of a game ball is restricted until a specific condition is satisfied. In this way, it is possible to realize a game playability that is significantly different from that of a conventional gaming machine that determines whether or not to enter a ball only by opening and closing the variable ball entry means, which is very useful for improving the interest. Will be. On the other hand, for example, when the variable ball entry control is performed a plurality of times, the progress of the state may be delayed due to the regulation by the regulating means. Therefore, if a plurality of variable ball entry means as described above are provided, the progress of the game can be suitably realized by, for example, alternately opening and closing these plurality of variable ball entry means.

Feature F2. A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging the game ball that has entered the variable ball entry means from the game area is provided.
The gaming machine according to feature F1, wherein the specific condition is satisfied when the gaming ball is ejected from the ejection passage.

According to the above configuration, when the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage, the game ball is allowed to enter. In other words, unless the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage, the game ball does not enter even if the variable ball entry means is opened. By doing so, it is possible to draw attention not only to the presence or absence of the ball entering the variable ball entry means, but also to the game ball after the ball has entered the variable ball entry means. That is, not only the behavior of the game ball in the game area but also the behavior of the game ball outside the game area can be attracted attention, which is preferable in increasing the degree of attention of the game.

On the other hand, if the game ball is not discharged from the discharge passage, it cannot be entered into the variable ball entry means. Therefore, a smooth game such as when a large amount of game ball is to be entered into the variable entry means. It may not be possible to proceed. In that respect, if a plurality of variable ball entry means as described above are provided, for example, during the period when the game ball is discharged from one variable ball entry means, the ball is entered into another variable ball entry means. With the configuration of, the game can be performed smoothly.

Feature F3. The discharge passage has a configuration capable of storing up to a predetermined number of game balls that have entered the variable ball entry means.
The gaming machine according to feature F2, wherein the specific condition is satisfied by discharging a specific number of game balls stored in the discharge passage, which is smaller than the predetermined number.

According to the above configuration, the game ball can enter the variable ball entry means even if the whole ball is not discharged. This makes it possible to realize a smoother game.

Features F4. The discharge passage has a displacement means (discharge door 175) that can be displaced into a storage state in which the game ball can be stored and a non-storage state in which the game ball is not stored.
The gaming machine according to feature F2 or feature F3, wherein the variable ball entry means is in the closed state, so that the displacement means is displaced to the non-reservoir state.

According to the above configuration, the game ball is discharged from the discharge passage in a state where the variable ball entry means is closed and the game ball cannot enter. By doing so, the event that the game ball is ejected while the ball enters the variable ball entry means does not occur, and the condition for allowing the ball to enter other than opening the variable ball entry means. It is possible to guarantee the significance of establishing.

Feature F5. While the displacement means of the variable ball entry means of one of the variable ball entry means is in the non-reservoir state, the variable ball entry means of the other variable ball entry means of the plurality of variable ball entry means. The gaming machine according to feature F4, wherein the displacement means is configured to be in the storage state.

According to the above configuration, a plurality of variable entry means are used, and during the period when the game ball is ejected from one variable entry means, the other variable entry means is opened and the ball is ejected. It is possible to realize a smooth game by making good use of the period required for.

Feature F6. The variable ball entry means receives an entrance portion (door portion 165) through which a game ball can enter when the ball is opened, and a game ball flowing down the game area, and guides the game ball to the entrance portion. Has a receiving part (receiving part 163) and
Among the game balls received by the receiving portion of one variable ball entry means in the plurality of variable ball entry means, the game ball that did not enter from the entrance portion of the one variable ball entry means is referred to by another. The gaming machine according to any one of features F1 to F5, wherein each variable ball entry means is arranged so that the receiving portion of the variable ball entry means can receive the ball.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to allow a game ball that has not entered one variable entry means to enter another variable entry means without making it a waste ball. By doing so, even if the game ball does not enter because the specific condition is not easily satisfied, it is meaningful to continue firing the game ball.

Feature F7. The gaming machine according to feature F6, wherein the one variable ball entry means and the other variable ball entry means are arranged side by side.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to play the action of the feature F6 with a simple configuration.

<Characteristic G group>
Features G1. It has a passing portion (exhaust passage HT from the large winning opening 32) through which a game ball can pass.
The passing portion is provided with a first opening / closing member (door portion 165) and a second opening / closing member (discharge door 175) that can be displaced to an open position through which the game ball can pass and a closed position at which the game ball cannot pass. Has been
A displacement means (variable winning drive unit 181) for displacing the first opening / closing member between the open position and the closed position is provided.
When the first opening / closing member is displaced by the displacement means, the second opening / closing member is displaced or the displacement is restricted via the first opening / closing member or a member different from the first opening / closing member. A game machine.

According to the above configuration, when the first opening / closing member is displaced, the second opening / closing member is displaced or the displacement is restricted. Therefore, the displacement between the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member is performed by one displacement means. Is possible. In particular, both opening / closing members cannot pass through the passing portion when they are in the closed position, and are useful for causing a change in the behavior of the game ball. For the accessory that causes such a change in the behavior of the game ball, the drive is regulated by setting the drive trigger for the operation to be predetermined or to be periodically driven, and the transparency of the game is achieved. Need to be secured. However, it may be difficult to sufficiently change the behavior of the game ball only by such regular driving. On the other hand, if a plurality of displacement means for driving are provided, there is a problem that not only the configuration is complicated but also regularization becomes difficult. Therefore, if the two opening / closing members are displaced by one displacement means as in the above configuration, it is possible to achieve both regular drive and diversification of the behavior of the game ball.

Feature G2. When the first opening / closing member is displaced from the closed position to the open position, the second opening / closing member is displaced from the open position to the closed position via the first opening / closing member or a member different from the first opening / closing member. The gaming machine according to the feature G1 characterized by being present.

According to the above configuration, when the first opening / closing member is displaced to the open position, the second opening / closing member is displaced to the closed position. By doing so, it is possible to realize an event such as allowing the passage of the first opening / closing member but restricting the passage by the second opening / closing member simply by displacing the first opening / closing member.

Feature G3. The feature G1 or the feature G1 is characterized in that the displacement of the second opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position is restricted by the displacement of the first opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position. Feature The gaming machine described in G2.

According to the above configuration, when the first opening / closing member is displaced to the closed position, the second opening / closing member is displaced to the open position. By doing so, it is possible to realize an event such as allowing the passage of the second opening / closing member while restricting the passage of the first opening / closing member simply by displacing the first opening / closing member.

In particular, if the above configuration is applied to the feature G2, if the passage of the first opening / closing member is allowed, the passage is restricted by the second opening / closing member, and if the passage of the first opening / closing member is restricted, the passage is restricted by the second opening / closing member. Is allowed. By doing so, it is possible to alternately set the places where passage is restricted / allowed in the passing portion, and it is possible to perform the setting by the displacement at one place. This makes it possible to change the behavior of the game ball in the passing portion with a simple configuration.

Features G4. A holding means (torsion spring 177) for holding the second opening / closing member in the open position is provided.
When the first opening / closing member is displaced from the open position to the closed position, a force larger than the holding force for holding the second opening / closing member in the open position is applied to the second opening / closing member by the holding means. The gaming machine according to any one of features G1 to G3.

According to the above configuration, the second opening / closing member is held in the open position until the force from the first opening / closing member is applied, and is displaced to the closed position by the force applied from the first opening / closing member. .. With such a configuration, regarding the displacement of the second opening / closing member, the displacement from the open position to the closed position may be linked with the first opening / closing member, which is relatively simple in order to share the displacement means. It can be configured.

Feature G5. The first opening / closing member is configured to be displaced between the open position and the closed position by rotating around a rotation shaft (guided rotation shaft 164) extending in the first direction.
The second opening / closing member is characterized in that it is displaced to the open position and the closed position by rotating around a rotation shaft (discharge rotation shaft 176) extending in the first direction. The gaming machine according to any one of G1 to G4.

According to the above configuration, since the rotation axes of the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member are parallel to each other, the force is used to transmit the power from the displacement means rather than the configuration in which the rotation axes intersect. The loss is small.

Feature G6. In the passing portion, the movement direction of the gaming ball regulated by the first opening / closing member being arranged in the closed position and the movement of the gaming ball restricted by the arrangement of the second opening / closing member in the closed position. The gaming machine according to feature G5, characterized in that the directions intersect with each other.

According to the above configuration, as shown in the feature G5, while the rotation axes of the opening / closing members are parallel, the passage directions of the passing portions at the positions where the opening / closing members are provided intersect. With such a configuration, the power from the displacement means is suitably transmitted to each opening / closing member, and the degree of freedom in the shape of the passing portion is improved.

Feature G7. The gaming machine according to any one of features G1 to G6, wherein the first opening / closing member is arranged on the upstream side of the second opening / closing member in the passing portion.

According to the above configuration, the force from the displacement means is directly applied to the member provided on the upstream side. It is considered that the displacement response of the second opening / closing member, in which the force from the displacement means is transmitted via the first opening / closing member, is somewhat slower. In that respect, it is preferable to provide a configuration in which the quick response side is provided on the upstream side in order to change the behavior of the game ball.

Features G8. In the passing portion, the length of the region between the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member is equal to or longer than the length of one gaming ball and is a plurality of games for a predetermined number (10). The gaming machine according to any one of features G1 to G7, characterized in that the length is set to be less than or equal to the length of the ball.

According to the above configuration, when the opening / closing member arranged on the downstream side in the passing portion is displaced to the closed position, the game ball stays in the region between the opening / closing member arranged on the upstream side. By doing so, for example, even if the opening / closing member on the upstream side is not displaced to the closed position, the inflow of the game ball beyond that is restricted, and by utilizing such an event, the entry leading to the passing portion is performed. It is possible to realize not only the displacement of the opening / closing member but also the permissible / restriction of the ball entering the ball portion.

Feature G9. In the passing portion, in a situation where the predetermined number of game balls are present in the region between the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member, the passing portion of the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member. The side arranged on the upstream side of the unit is on the upstream side of the predetermined number of game balls, and is on the downstream side of the upstream position located upstream by the radius of the game balls from the predetermined number of game balls. The gaming machine according to feature G8, which is characterized in that it is arranged.

According to the above configuration, the opening / closing member on the upstream side is opened and closed at a position upstream of the predetermined number of game balls and less than half of the game balls from the predetermined number of game balls. Since the opening / closing member is displaced to the position, for example, the opening / closing member is closed when the opening / closing member is placed in the open position and more than a predetermined number of game balls are flowing into the passing portion / waiting for the inflow. When it is displaced to a position, it is displaced to a closed position while abutting on the next game ball of a predetermined number on the downstream side of the center position of the game ball. Therefore, the next game ball of the predetermined number is pushed out to the upstream side of the opening / closing member displaced to the closed position, and does not flow into the region between the opening / closing members. Therefore, it is possible to keep the number of game balls accommodated in the area between the opening / closing members to a predetermined number.

Feature G10. The gaming machine according to feature G8 or feature G9, wherein the region between the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member in the passing portion is formed as a curved passage having a curved portion.

According to the above configuration, in the curved portion, the game balls come into contact with each other at a portion shorter than the diameter, so that the length in the region between the opening / closing members of the passing portion should be shorter than the length of a predetermined number of game balls. Is possible. Therefore, it is possible to fit more game balls in the area between the opening / closing members within the limited area.

Feature G11. A predetermined game (round) in which the upper limit number of game balls that can pass through the passing portion is set is provided.
The gaming machine according to any one of features G8 to G10, wherein the predetermined number is set to be equal to or less than the upper limit number.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to limit the passage of the upper limit number or more in a predetermined game by the length of the region between the opening / closing members in the passing portion and the opening / closing of the opening / closing members. As a result, it is possible to physically limit the events that pass the upper limit or more in a predetermined game, and it is possible to ensure the fairness of the game.

Feature G12. A predetermined game (round) in which the upper limit number of game balls that can pass through the passing portion is set is provided.
The gaming machine according to any one of features G8 to G10, wherein the predetermined number is set to be the upper limit number.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to limit the passage of the upper limit number or more in a predetermined game by the length of the region between the opening / closing members in the passing portion and the opening / closing of the opening / closing members. As a result, it is possible to physically limit the events that pass the upper limit or more in a predetermined game, and it is possible to ensure the fairness of the game.

Feature G13. A detection means (winning sensor 32a for a large winning opening) for detecting that a game ball has flowed into the passing portion is provided.
The gaming machine according to any one of features G1 to G12, wherein the detection means is provided in a region between the first opening / closing member and the second opening / closing member in the passing portion.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to suitably detect that the game ball has flowed into the region sandwiched between the opening and closing members in the passing portion by the detecting means.

In this case, if the configuration is such that the game balls can be accommodated in the area between the opening and closing members as in the feature G8, the number of game balls accommodated in the area between the two opening / closing members can be determined by using the detection result of the detecting means. Can be grasped.

Feature G14. The gaming machine according to feature G13, wherein a suppressing means (return prevention valve 178) for suppressing the movement of the gaming ball toward the detecting means is provided on the downstream side of the detecting means.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to avoid an event in which the game ball once detected by the detection means moves to the detection means side again and is detected again. Therefore, it is possible for the gaming machine to accurately grasp the number of inflows into the region between the opening / closing members.

Feature G15. When the movement toward the detection means is suppressed by the suppression means, the operable position of the game ball toward the detection means side is downstream from the position where the game ball is detected by the detection means. The gaming machine according to feature G14, wherein the gaming ball is in a position where the succeeding gaming ball can be prevented from being detected by the detection means when the gaming ball comes into contact with the succeeding gaming ball. ..

According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of the subsequent game ball while preventing duplication detection by the detection means.

<Characteristic H group>
Features H1. A launching means (game ball launching mechanism 53) for launching a game ball toward a game area in which the game ball flows down in response to an operation by the player, and
A variable ball entry means (variable winning unit 151) provided in the game area and capable of being displaced into an open state in which a game ball can enter and a closed state in which it is more difficult to enter than the open state.
A variable ball entry control means (a function of executing a large winning opening opening / closing process by the main control device 81) for executing variable ball entry control in which the variable ball entry means is changed from the closed state to the open state and then changed to the closed state. ,
Specific state setting means (main control) that sets the game state to a specific state in which the variable ball entry control by the variable ball entry means can be executed a plurality of times based on the occurrence of a specific event (big hit result, special missed result). (Function to execute the game state transition process by the device 81) and
Setting means (steps S1105 to in the main control device 81) for setting a control pattern so that the variable ball entry control by the variable ball entry control means becomes a predetermined control mode in the specific state according to the type of the specific event. (Function to execute the process of step S1114, step S1125) and
Equipped with
The setting means has a control pattern set in a first specific state based on the occurrence of a first event (unspecified 2R probability variation jackpot result) and a second event (special deviation result) different from the first event. ) Is generated, and the control pattern set in the second specific state can be the same as the control pattern.
A case where a predetermined number of game balls are inserted into the variable ball entry means in the first specific state, and a case where the predetermined number of game balls are inserted into the variable ball entry means in the second specific state. The gaming machine is characterized in that the control mode of the variable ball entry control is different.

According to the above configuration, in the specific state set based on the specific event, the control pattern of the control mode of the variable ball entry control means set on the gaming machine side is the same in the first specific state and the second specific state. However, if a predetermined number of gaming balls are inserted into the variable ball entry means, the control mode of the set control pattern can be changed. Therefore, if the player wants to know whether the specific state is set based on the first event or the second event, a predetermined number of game balls are inserted into the variable ball entry means. You just have to let it. Therefore, it is possible to encourage the active participation of the game and preferably increase the degree of attention to the game.

Feature H2. The gaming machine according to feature H1, wherein the upper limit number of gaming balls that can be entered into the variable ball entry means is the same in the first specific state and the second specific state.

According to the above configuration, the privilege and the like obtained based on the ball entry are the same in the first specific state and the second specific state. That is, when a predetermined number of balls are inserted, the benefits obtained are not different, but only it is known whether the event was the first event or the second event. By doing so, it is possible to encourage the player's intervention to the extent that it does not contribute to the player's interests. Therefore, it is possible to increase the attention of the game while ensuring the fairness of the game.

Feature H3. The effect executing means (effect control device 82) for executing the specific effect in the specific state by a predetermined effect means (design display device 41) is provided.
The gaming machine according to feature H1 or feature H2, wherein the effect executing means can execute the same effect in the first specific state and the second specific state.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to discriminate what cannot be visually discriminated from the control pattern or the effect by inserting a predetermined number of balls. Therefore, the motivation of the player is enhanced.

<Characteristic I group>
Features I1. A predetermined entry section (large winning opening 32) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE) where the gaming ball flows down and into which the gaming ball can enter,
Variable entry means (door portion 165) that can be switched between a state in which a game ball can enter the predetermined ball entry portion and a state in which the game ball cannot enter or cannot enter the ball. When,
A discharge passage (discharge passage HT) for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage HT.
A variable discharge means (discharge door 175) provided in the discharge passage and capable of switching between a dischargeable state in which the game ball can be discharged and a discharge non-dischargeable state in which the game ball cannot be discharged.
A branch passage (branch passage BT) that branches from the discharge passage and can lead the game ball to a region different from the discharge passage.
Equipped with
The case where the game ball that has entered the variable ball entry means is led out to the branch passage is more advantageous to the player than the case where the game ball is not led out to the branch passage.
When the first number of game balls is discharged from the variable ejection means, it is difficult to derive the game balls to the branch passage side, and the second number of game balls less than the first number is ejected from the variable entry means. If this is the case, it is provided with specific means (a function of executing the closing time setting process by the main control device 81, a function of executing the distribution drive process) so that the game ball can be easily derived to the branch passage side. A gaming machine characterized by being.

According to the above configuration, in the configuration in which the game ball that has entered the variable ball entry means is discharged from the discharge passage, the game ball is in a dischargeable state in which the game ball can be discharged and a discharge non-dischargeable state in which the game ball cannot be discharged in the discharge passage. A variable discharge means that can be switched is provided, and whether or not it is led out to the branch passage side that is advantageous to the player changes depending on the number of game balls discharged from the variable discharge means. In this case, the smaller the number of balls discharged from the variable discharge means, the easier it is to be led out to the branch passage side. Therefore, if the number of balls entering the variable ball entry means is small, the number of balls discharged from the variable discharge means is small. At the very least, this is a favorable event for a player. As a result of the above, it is possible to make a novel gaming machine completely different from the conventional gaming machines to which the privilege according to the number of balls entered is given.

Feature I2. The specific means does not make the number of balls entering the predetermined ball entry portion different depending on whether the number of game balls ejected from the variable ball entry means is the first number or the second number. , The gaming machine according to feature I1, wherein the lead-out rate to the branch passage can be changed.

According to the above configuration, the number of balls entering a predetermined ball entry portion does not change. Therefore, for example, in a configuration in which a prize ball is awarded based on the entry of a ball into a predetermined ball entry portion, the total number of prize balls is set. Only the derivation rate to the branch passage can be changed without changing. Therefore, it is possible to realize the playability of leading to an advantageous branch passage without requiring a large change in the specifications of the gaming machine.

Feature I3. A variable distribution means (distribution unit 301) that is provided at a branch position with the branch passage and can be switched between a mode in which the game ball is led out to the branch passage and a mode in which the game ball is not led out to the branch passage.
A variable distribution control means (a function of executing a distribution drive process by the main control device 81) that executes switching control of the variable distribution means at a predetermined predetermined cycle, and
Equipped with
The specific means is characterized in that it has a configuration capable of changing the lead-out rate to the branch passage without changing a predetermined period of the switching control by the variable distribution means. The described gaming machine.

According to the above configuration, since the timing of the switching control of the variable distribution means provided at the branch position does not differ, whether or not it is derived to the advantageous branch passage is determined purely by the number of discharges from the variable discharge means. .. Therefore, it is possible to concentrate on the game without giving a feeling of distrust due to the timing of the switching control being changed.

Feature I4. The gaming machine according to feature I3, wherein the variable distribution means is arranged on the downstream side of the variable discharge means.

According to the above configuration, the game balls discharged by the variable discharge means are distributed to the variable distribution means. In other words, if the discharge is not possible, the game ball is stored in front of the variable distribution means. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the appearance of the game ball reaching the variable distribution means is overlooked, and it becomes easy to pay attention to the behavior of the game ball.

Feature I5. In the variable ejection means, the number of gaming balls that can be ejected at the subsequent ejection timing is larger when the second number of gaming balls is ejected than when the first number of gaming balls are ejected. The gaming machine according to any one of features I1 to I4, characterized in that the configuration is obtained.

According to the above configuration, when the second number on the smaller side is discharged, the number of game balls that can be discharged is larger in the subsequent discharge timing than when the first number on the larger side is discharged. Become. That is, the smaller the discharge at the earlier discharge timing, the larger the discharge at the later discharge timing. Here, in a configuration in which the smaller the number of discharges is, the more advantageous the configuration is, the smaller the number of discharges, the larger the number of game balls that stay in the discharge passage. Can occur. On the other hand, if the above is done, the inconvenience such as the limitation of the number of balls subsequently entered is less likely to occur due to the small number of ejected balls.

Feature I6. The gaming machine according to feature I5, wherein the specific means facilitates the gaming ball to be led out to the branch passage at the subsequent discharge timing.

According to the above configuration, the event that the number of discharges is small at the earlier discharge timing and the number of discharges is large at the later discharge timing is utilized to facilitate the derivation to the branch passage when the number of discharges is large. By doing so, it is not necessary to prepare a special configuration for deriving to the branch passage with a small number, and the effect of the feature I1 can be obtained with a simple configuration.

Feature I7. It is possible to execute the variable switching control for switching the variable ball entry means from the non-entry state to the possible entry state and then switching to the non-entry state a plurality of times based on a predetermined transition trigger (occurrence of a big hit). Transition means (function to execute game state transition processing by the main control device 81) to shift to a specific state
In the specific state, the setting means (by the main control device 81) for setting a predetermined waiting period (interval period) from the time when the variable ball-entry means is switched to the ball-impossible state to the time when the variable ball-entry means is switched to the ball-entry state. Function to execute the closing time setting process) and
Equipped with
The variable discharge means is configured to be in the discharge enable state during the predetermined waiting period set by the setting means, and the predetermined waiting period set by the setting means is the first period. The first number of gaming balls can be ejected, and the second number of gaming balls can be ejected when the predetermined waiting period set by the setting means is the second period shorter than the first period. The gaming machine according to any one of features I1 to I6, which is characterized by having the above-mentioned configuration.

According to the above configuration, it is different whether the first number is discharged or the second number is discharged by making the length of the predetermined waiting period in the specific state different. By doing so, it is possible to attract the attention of the player even in a situation where the variable ball entry means cannot enter the ball and the game ball cannot be entered, and the degree of attention tends to decrease. Become.

Feature I8. After the second period is set by the setting means, when the variable discharge means becomes the dischargeable state, the dischargeable state can be maintained for a longer period than when the second period is set. The gaming machine according to feature I7, which is characterized in that it has a configuration that makes it easy to become.

According to the above configuration, when a small second number is discharged as the second period, there may be a remaining ball that was not discharged among the game balls that entered in one variable switching control. Then, in the next variable switching control, the remaining balls are stored in the discharge passage in addition to the game balls that have entered. Therefore, after the second period is set, by making it possible to eject a large number of game balls, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of inconveniences such as a limitation on the number of balls that can be entered thereafter.

Feature I9. In the specific state, the end period (ending period) from the end of the plurality of variable switching controls to the transition to the normal gaming state is set.
The end period includes the remaining balls remaining without being discharged from the variable discharge means when the second period is set by the setting means, and the upper limit number of balls that can be entered in one variable switching control. The gaming machine according to feature I8, which is set to be longer than the period required to discharge the total number of the machines.

According to the above configuration, all the game balls are easily discharged during the end period, and it is possible to avoid the inconvenience of shifting to the normal game state even though the discharge has not been completed. In particular, in a configuration that changes the advantage in a normal gaming state when it is led out to a branch passage, for example, a game ball in which all the game balls are not discharged and the possibility of being led out to the branch passage remains. Despite its existence, an event may occur in which it is necessary to shift to a normal gaming state. Therefore, if the above is performed, it is possible to shift to the normal gaming state after the determination of whether or not all the gaming balls are derived to the branch passage is completed, so that the above-mentioned inconvenience is caused. Does not occur.

Feature I10. The setting means is a lottery means (mainly) capable of drawing one waiting period from a plurality of predetermined waiting periods including the first period and the second period based on a predetermined lottery opportunity. A function of executing the processing of steps S1801 to S1802 by the control device 81) is provided.
The gaming machine according to feature I7, wherein the lottery means executes the lottery separately from the determination of the transition of the gaming state by the transition means.

According to the above configuration, the waiting period is determined by lottery separately from the determination of transition to the specific state. Therefore, for example, in a configuration in which a plurality of specific states exist, the specific state is not preferable for the player. Even so, it is possible to realize playability such as leaving hope in the lottery by the lottery means.

Feature I11. The second number is set as a number smaller than the upper limit number of balls that can be entered in one variable switching control.
The setting means sets each predetermined waiting period in the specific state as the second period.
The gaming machine according to feature I7, wherein a plurality of types of specific states having different times of variable switching control are set as the specific state to be transferred by the transfer means.

According to the above configuration, when the second number of game balls are ejected, there are remaining remaining balls that are not ejected in one predetermined waiting period. With such a configuration, since the setting means uniformly sets each predetermined waiting period as the second period, a predetermined number of game balls remain and are accumulated in each predetermined waiting period. It will be. That is, the game balls for branching to the branch passage are gradually accumulated, and the larger the number of predetermined waiting periods, that is, the number of variable switching controls, the easier it is to branch to the branch passage. Therefore, it is possible to change the branching fraction to the branch aisle without changing the length of the predetermined waiting period in each specific state.

Feature I12. It is possible to execute the variable switching control for switching the variable ball entry means from the non-entry state to the possible entry state and then switching to the non-entry state a plurality of times based on a predetermined transition trigger (occurrence of a big hit). Transition means (function to execute game state transition processing by the main control device 81) to shift to a specific state
In the specific state, the setting means (by the main control device 81) for setting a predetermined waiting period (interval period) from the time when the variable ball-entry means is switched to the ball-impossible state to the time when the variable ball-entry means is switched to the ball-entry state. Function to execute the closing time setting process) and
Equipped with
A plurality of the predetermined ball entry portions and the variable ball entry means are provided.
In the specific state, the variable switching control in one predetermined ball entry unit and the variable ball entry means and the variable switching control in the other predetermined ball entry unit and the variable ball entry means alternately alternate. It is configured to be viable and
The variable ejection means corresponding to the predetermined ball entry section and the variable ball entry means is the period during which the variable switching control is performed in the predetermined ball entry section and the variable ball entry means. The feature I1 is characterized in that the discharge is not possible, and the discharge is possible during the period when the variable switching control is performed in the other predetermined ball entry unit and the variable ball entry means. The gaming machine according to any one of I6.

According to the above configuration, in a configuration having a plurality of sets of predetermined ball entry portions and variable ball entry means, variable switching control in a specific state can be alternately performed in each set. In this case, if one of the variable switching controls is terminated earlier, the dischargeable period in the other set becomes shorter. That is, if it can be terminated early as described above, it will be easy to be derived to the branch passage. By doing so, it is possible to change the easiness of being derived to the branch passage depending on the length of the variable switching control implementation period without significantly changing the setting on the gaming machine side.

It should be noted that the above configuration is "a termination means for terminating the variable switching control based on the fact that a predetermined number of game balls have entered the predetermined entry portion in the variable switching control". If the configuration is provided with, the end condition becomes clearer, and it becomes possible to realize an easy-to-understand game property that it is more advantageous to insert a large number of game balls at an early stage.

The technical ideas shown in the inventions of the features A to I described above may be applied to the inventions of the features A to I, and some or all of them may be combined to form the features A to. It may be applied to each invention of group I. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or a part of the various configurations shown in each invention of each feature group A to I.

The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which each of the above features can be applied is shown below.

Pachinko gaming machine: An operating means operated by a player, a game ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operating means, a ball passage for guiding the launched game ball to a predetermined game area, and a game. A gaming machine that includes each gaming component arranged in an area and grants a privilege to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion of each gaming component.

Revolving gaming machine such as a slot machine: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a variable display of a symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols and then displays the final stop display of the symbol sequence, and the symbol variation starts due to the operation of the starting operation means. This is a special game that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the stop operation means or after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A gaming machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

Ball-using belt-type gaming machine: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a variable display of a symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols and then displays the final stop display of the symbol sequence. A special gaming state (bonus) that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the operation means or the predetermined time elapses and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A throwing device that is provided with a ball tray to generate a game, etc., and is provided with a throwing device that takes in a game ball from the ball tray and a payout device that pays out the game ball to the ball tray. A gaming machine configured so that the operation of the starting operation means becomes effective when the gaming ball is thrown in.

10 ... Pachinko machine, 32 ... Large winning opening, 33 ... Upper operating port, 34 ... Lower operating port, 34a ... Electric accessory, 81 ... Main control device, 82 ... Production control device, 151 ... Variable winning unit, 163 ... Receiving Unit, 165 ... Door part, 174 ... Discharge port, 175 ... Discharge door, 177 ... Torsion spring, 178 ... Return prevention valve, 181 ... Variable winning drive unit, 191 ... Discharge drive unit, 201 ... First variable winning unit, 202 ... 2nd variable winning unit, distribution unit ... 301, HT ... discharge passage, BT ... branch passage, PE ... game area, PE1 ... upper area, PE2 ... left side area, PE3 ... right side area, PE4 ... lower area.

The present invention
A game area in which a ball flows down, an entry port through which the ball flowing down the game area passes, and a first state in which a ball flowing down from the upstream side of the entry port can be guided to the entry port and the entry ball. In a gaming machine including a ball entry switching means for switching a ball flowing down from the upstream side of the mouth in a second state in which the ball cannot be guided to the ball entry port, and a detection means for detecting the ball entering the ball entry port. ,
A space-constructing means that constitutes a predetermined space in which up to a predetermined number of balls that have passed through the entry port can exist at the same time.
The ball entry switching means is provided with a discharge means capable of discharging a ball existing in the predetermined space from the predetermined space in a state where the ball entry switching means is switched to the second state.
The ball entry switching means can be switched to the first state while the ball is present in the predetermined space.
A setting means for setting an upper limit number of balls to be entered into the entrance is provided in a predetermined round game in which the ball can be entered into the entrance.
The setting means sets the upper limit number of balls in a round game in which the ball entry switching means is switched to the first state while the ball is present in the predetermined space, and a round game in which the ball entry switching means is not switched to the first state. It is configured to be configurable as the same number,
The ball entry switching means includes a rolling portion capable of rolling the ball and a blocking portion capable of inhibiting the flow of the ball to the entry port side, and the rolling portion and the blocking portion are integrated. It is characterized by being configured to be operable.

Claims (1)

A predetermined entry section where the game ball can enter, which is provided in the game area where the game ball flows down,
A discharge passage for discharging a game ball that has entered the predetermined ball entry portion, and a discharge passage.
A first storage means capable of storing a first number of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion in the discharge passage during a predetermined period.
A second storage means capable of storing a second number of game balls that have entered the predetermined entry portion in the predetermined period in the discharge passage, which is different from the first number.
A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with.

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