JP2023151513A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing player's interest in a game by displaying a plurality of pieces of information with appropriate time allocation in a demonstration performance.SOLUTION: A demonstration performance includes a first time period, a second time period, and a third time period. In the first time period, an attention-calling image 324 for calling attention to a game is displayed. In the second time period, a model image 323 indicating a model name is displayed. In the third time period, a character image 322 is displayed but the model image 323 and the attention-calling image 324 are not displayed. The first time period is shorter than the second time period, the second time period is shorter than the third time period, and the third time period is longer than the total of the first time period and the second time period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

In general, in a gaming machine (pachinko machine), a game ball is launched toward a gaming area within the gaming board by the player's handle operation, and a special condition is set in which the gaming ball that flows down the gaming area enters the starting port. A lottery regarding the symbols is executed. Then, in the gaming machine, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the special symbol display, and furthermore, the special symbol determined by the lottery is displayed in a static manner, thereby notifying the player of the lottery result. At this time, in the gaming machine, when a specific special symbol indicating a jackpot is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display, a big prize game that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game is started. When a big prize game starts, the attacker device in the gaming machine opens and closes a predetermined number of times, allowing game balls to enter the big prize opening, allowing the player to receive a payout of many prize balls. becomes.

In the gaming machine described above, a configuration is known in which a demonstration image can be displayed immediately after the power is turned on or when a symbol change does not occur for a predetermined period of time (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 08-182825

In recent years, in gaming machines, there have been efforts to appeal to players the appeal of gaming machines through demonstration effects that are displayed when a game is not being played, and to prevent players from becoming overly absorbed in the game. Although there is a need to display multiple pieces of information in order to prevent people from becoming absorbed in the game, there is also a need to prevent the demonstration performance from becoming redundant due to displaying multiple pieces of information.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can increase a player's interest in playing by displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during a demonstration performance.

The present invention provides a gaming machine that executes games using gaming values,
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance includes a first time period, a second time period, and a third time period,

In the first time period, an attention-calling image is displayed to call attention to the game,
In the second time period, a name image indicating the model name is displayed,
In the third time period, the character image is displayed, and the name image and the attention image are not displayed,
The first time period is shorter than the second time period,
The second time period is shorter than the third time period,
The third time period is characterized in that the third time period is longer than the sum of the first time period and the second time period.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can display a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during a demonstration performance, thereby increasing the player's interest in playing the game.

1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention with the door opened. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display section of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a state transition diagram of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a diagram showing the content of the first part of the demonstration performance executed in the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the second part of the demonstration performance. (C) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the third part of the demonstration performance, and (D) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a ball return prevention mechanism included in the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the ball return prevention mechanism when the ball return prevention member of the 1st Embodiment of this invention is in a closed state. It is a front view of the ball return prevention mechanism when the ball return prevention member of the first embodiment of the present invention is in an open state. It is a diagram showing how a game ball that has entered the game area is about to return to the boundary area when the ball return prevention member of the first embodiment of the present invention is in a state between a closed state and an open state. . 11 is an enlarged view of the area surrounded by the dotted line shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the area surrounded by the dotted line shown in FIG. 10. FIG. It is a diagram showing a state in which a game ball that has returned from a game area to a boundary area collides with a ball return prevention member in the game machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a diagram showing the contents of the first part of the demonstration performance executed in the gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the second part of the demonstration performance. (C) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the third part of the demonstration performance, (D) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance, (E) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance. It is a figure which shows the content of the performance in the 5th part in a demonstration performance. FIG. 7 is a front view showing the external configuration of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a diagram showing the content of the first part of the demonstration performance executed in the gaming machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the second part of the demonstration performance. (C) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the third part of the demonstration performance, and (D) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Note that the first embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the first embodiment are essential configuration requirements of the present invention. In addition, in the following explanation, "front and rear" basically means, when the player is on the front side of the gaming machine, that the player side is the "front" and the gaming machine side is the "rear", and "up and down" means the player is at the front of the gaming machine. means that the top side of the gaming machine is "top" and the bottom side is "bottom", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing the game machine is "left", and the right hand side is "right". .

1. Outline of the configuration of the gaming machine FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a pachinko machine 1 as a gaming machine according to the first embodiment. The pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment is a so-called pinball game machine, and is used to play games using game balls (game value) lent from a game parlor.

The pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 that forms the outer surface of the pachinko machine 1, a game board 6 that is provided inside the pachinko machine 1 and forms a game area 4 in which game balls move, and holds the game board 6. It includes an inner frame 7, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible to players but inaccessible to them, and a front frame 10 as a front door to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so that it can be opened and closed. Further, the front frame 10 is attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) in which the opening of the outer frame 2 is closed and an open position (open state) in which the opening of the outer frame 2 is opened. It has become.

The part of the front frame 10 that surrounds the glass unit 8 is made of a semi-transparent material that transmits light, and inside the part made of the semi-transparent material, there are lighting lights etc. to enliven the game. A plurality of lamps 12 (front frame lamps) that output . Further, speakers 14 (sound device) are provided on the left and right sides of the upper part of the front frame 10 and on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10, which output sound effects to enliven the game.

Further, a model display section 15 for displaying the model name of the pachinko machine 1 is provided at approximately the center of the upper part of the front frame 10. The model name is configured so that it can be easily recognized.

At the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, there is provided an upper tray 16 for storing game balls, and on the left side of the inner side of the upper tray 16, there is provided a tray 16 for dispensing game balls from the pachinko machine 1 to the player. A payout port 18 is provided. Further, a grip unit 20 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when the player performs an operation to rotate the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the pachinko machine 1, the grip unit 20 is installed inside the pachinko machine 1. The attached firing device (not shown) is activated, and game balls are fired into the game area 4. The firing device of the first embodiment can fire 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

A supply port 22 for supplying game balls from the upper tray 16 to the firing device is provided on the right side of the inner side surface of the upper tray 16. Further, below the upper tray 16, a lower tray 24 is provided for storing surplus game balls when the upper tray 16 cannot store all the game balls.

Further, a performance button 26 (performance operation means) is provided on the near side of the edge of the upper tray 16, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed on the Pachinko machine 1 changes.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 6 is provided with a circular outer rail 27, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 27 is the game area 4 in which the game ball moves. Further, at the left end of the game area 4, an inner rail 28 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 27, and the outer rail 27 and the inner rail 28 are arranged below the game board 6 (not shown). A game ball fired from a firing device is guided to a game area 4.

In the center of the game board 6, there is provided an effect unit 36 including a liquid crystal display 32 (effect display means) for displaying effect images to enliven the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. It is being The display frame 34 is provided with display frame lamps 38 and 39 above the center of the liquid crystal display 32 for outputting lighting for enhancing the game.

In the first embodiment, the game ball is not allowed to pass through the front side of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball fired from the firing device is not allowed to pass through the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 (left-handed hitting area) 4a. It is designed to fall through the right side game area (right-handed hitting area) 4b. In addition, in the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed to cross the surface of the game board 6, so that the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly. There is.

Furthermore, an opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34 through which a game ball falling in the left side game area (left-handed hitting area 4a) of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass. It passes through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and falls onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of the stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 so that the game ball can fall downward from the stage 44, and the game ball can fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42. After the game ball moves back and forth from side to side on the stage 44, it falls downward from near the center of the stage 44.

A first starting opening 46 is provided below the center of the stage 44, into which a game ball that has fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. Further, in the first starting port 46, a first starting port switch 100 (see FIG. 4) for detecting a game ball that has entered the first starting port 46 is disposed. When the first starting port switch 100 detects a game ball (entering the first starting port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 (see FIG. 4). Further, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first starting port switch 100. Further, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 (see FIG. 4) to pay out prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the first starting port switch 100. Furthermore, the game balls that have entered the first starting port 46 are collected inside the pachinko machine 1.

To the left of the first starting opening 46 in the gaming area 4, a plurality (three) of general winning openings 47 (upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, and lower left general winning opening 47c) are provided. . In addition, the game board 6 is provided with a general prize opening switch 101 (see FIG. 4) that detects game balls that have entered the upper left general prize opening 47a, the middle left general prize opening 47b, or the lower left general prize opening 47c. There is. When the general winning hole switch 101 detects a game ball (entering the upper left general winning hole 47a, the middle left general winning hole 47b, or the lower left general winning hole 47c), the general winning hole switch 101 sends a detection signal to the main control board 200. Output. Further, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to execute the payout operation of prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning a prize opening switch 101. In addition, the general winning opening switch 101 may be provided one each for each of the upper left general winning opening 47a, the middle left general winning opening 47b, and the lower left general winning opening 47c. Only one may be provided for each. Further, in addition to the upper left general winning hole 47a, the middle left general winning hole 47b, and the lower left general winning hole 47c, a general winning hole 47 and a general winning hole switch corresponding to the general winning hole may be provided.

Further, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, there is provided a passage gate 48 through which game balls pass through without being collected inside the pachinko machine 1. Furthermore, a gate switch 102 (see FIG. 4) is disposed within the passage gate 48 to detect that a game ball has passed. The gate switch 102 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 when detecting a game ball (passage of the game ball through the passage gate 48). Further, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal hit is correct based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.

Further, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a second starting port 49 is provided below the passage gate 48. Further, in the second starting port 49, a second starting port switch 103 (see FIG. 4) for detecting a game ball that has entered the second starting port 49 is arranged. The second starting port switch 103 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 when detecting a game ball (entering the game ball into the second starting port 49). Further, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second starting port switch 103. Further, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to pay out prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the second starting port switch 103. Furthermore, the game balls that have entered the second starting port 49 are collected inside the pachinko machine 1.

The second starting port 49 has a reduced state in which it is difficult for game balls to enter the second starting port 49 (a state in which entry is not assisted/non-assistant state) and an enlarged state in which a game ball is easy to enter (a state in which entry is assisted/auxiliary state). A common accessory 54 (auxiliary means) that can operate between the state and the state) is provided. The normal accessory 54 has a built-in driving device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to be in an enlarged state under predetermined conditions when a normal win is won in the normal symbol lottery.

In addition, a big prize opening 50 is provided in the gaming area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Further, a count switch 104 (see FIG. 4) for detecting game balls that have entered the big winning hole 50 is arranged in the big winning hole 50. The count switch 104 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 when detecting a game ball (entering the game ball into the big prize opening 50). Further, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. Further, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening 50 based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. Furthermore, the game balls that have entered the big prize opening 50 are collected inside the pachinko machine 1.

The grand prize opening 50 has two states: a closed state (second state, no entry state) in which the game ball cannot enter the big winning port 50 and an open state (first state, entry possible state) in which the game ball can enter. A special accessory 56 that can be operated between the two is provided. The special accessory 56 has a built-in driving device such as a solenoid, and is opened under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a jackpot is won in a special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). It is controlled to become the state.

Furthermore, at the bottom of the gaming area 4, an out opening 62 is provided for collecting game balls that have fallen through the gaming area 4 without entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 into the inside of the pachinko machine 1. It is being Here, inside the pachinko machine 1, a discharge path (not shown) is provided through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. The pachinko machine 1 is configured so that all the game balls launched into the game area 4 (all the game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through a discharge path. That is, the game ball launched into the game area 4 is collected from the game area 4 and flows into the discharge path by entering the winning hole 46, 47, 49, 50 or passing through the out hole 62. Specifically, the game ball that entered each winning hole 46, 47, 49, 50 is guided to the discharge path after being detected by the switch 100, 101, 103, 104 arranged in the winning hole. . Moreover, the game balls collected from the out port 62 are guided to the discharge path. Further, an out switch 106 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the discharge path. The out switch 106 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 when detecting a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of the game ball from the game area 4). Further, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls ejected from the game area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

The game ball launching device is configured so that the ejection force of the game ball changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in FIG. 1, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small. In this case, the game ball is fired so that it falls in the game area on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 (the left-hand hitting area 4a), and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball falls in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. The game ball is fired so that the game ball falls.

Therefore, the player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the gaming situation, and allows the game ball to fall through the left playing area (left-handed hitting area 4a) or pass through the opening 40, passage 42, and stage 44. to launch the game ball so that it enters the first starting port 46 (left-handed hit), or to let the game ball fall down the right side game area 4b and pass through the passage gate 48, or The game ball is fired so that the game ball enters the starting hole 49 or the game ball enters the big winning hole 50 (right-handed hit).

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, when the game ball falls through the left side game area (left-handed hitting area 4a), the game ball does not pass through the passage gate 48 and the second starting port 49 and the grand prize opening 50, game balls are prevented from entering (winning). In addition, when the game ball falls down the right side game area 4b, the game ball will not win in the first starting port 46, the upper left general winning hole 47a, the middle left general winning hole 47b, and the lower left general winning hole 47c. It looks like this.

At the lower right portion of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4, a status display section 70 is provided that indicates various statuses of the pachinko machine 1 by lighting and extinguishing lamps or the like.

FIG. 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display section 70. As shown in FIG. 3, the status display section 70 includes a normal symbol display section 72, a normal reservation display section 74, a first special symbol display section 76, a first special reservation display section 78, a second special symbol display section 80, A second special reservation display section 82 and a gaming state display section 84 are provided.

The normal symbol display section 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner by blinking the two lamps, and the normal symbol is displayed by lighting or extinguishing the two lamps. The display is stopped and the result of the normal symbol lottery is displayed.

The normal hold display section 74 is composed of two lamps, and is used to obtain random numbers for drawing normal symbols when the normal symbols are already being displayed in a variable or stopped manner at the time the game ball passes through the passage gate 48. If the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is suspended due to the inability to perform the regular symbol lottery even if the regular symbol lottery is not possible, the normal pending number corresponding to the number of the reserved random value for the regular symbol lottery is displayed. The number of normal reservations from 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the two lamps.

The first special symbol display section 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special symbol lottery is performed by a game ball entering the first starting port 46, the first special symbol display section 76 flashes the 7-segment display to display the first The special symbols are variably displayed, the 7-segment display is turned on in one of a plurality of modes, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the result of the first special symbol lottery is displayed.

The first special reservation display section 78 is composed of two lamps, and when the game ball enters the first starting port 46, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already in a variable display or a stopped display. etc., when the random number for the special symbol drawing is held as the first special random number because the special symbol drawing cannot be performed even if the random number for the special symbol drawing (lottery information) is obtained. The first special reservation number corresponding to the number of the first special random number is displayed, and the first special reservation number of 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or blinking two lamps. .

The second special symbol display unit 80 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special symbol lottery is performed by a game ball entering the second starting port 49, the second special symbol display unit 80 blinks the 7-segment display to display the second The special symbols are variably displayed, the 7-segment display is turned on in one of a plurality of modes, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the result of the second special symbol lottery is displayed.

The second special reservation display section 82 is composed of two lamps, and when the game ball enters the second starting port 49, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already in a variable display or a stopped display. etc., when the random value for the special symbol lottery is held as the second special random value because the special symbol lottery cannot be performed even if the random value for the special symbol lottery is acquired, the suspended second special random value The second special reservation number corresponding to the numerical value is displayed, and the second special reservation number of 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of lighting, extinguishing, or blinking the two lamps.

The gaming state display section 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of gaming state currently set by a combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the six lamps. In the first embodiment, there is a normal state (low probability state), a variable probability state (high probability state/special state) where the probability of winning the jackpot is set higher than the normal state, and a state that starts when you win the jackpot in a special symbol lottery. There are four types of game states that can be set: a special game state in which the first special symbol or the second special symbol changes, and a time-saving state (special state) in which the fluctuation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened and the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery occurs frequently. Which gaming state is set is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the six lamps.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment. The pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means) and a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means). The functions of each board such as the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are controlled by various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or hardware such as RAM. This is realized by software consisting of a given program stored in advance in a ROM or the like.

The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game. The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the first starting port switch 100, the general prize winning port switch 101, the gate switch 102, the second starting port switch 103, the count switch 104, or the out switch 106, and Various calculations are performed to execute the above, and based on the calculation results, the operation of output means such as the status display section 70, the ordinary accessory 54, the special accessory 56, or the payout device 130 is controlled.

The sub-control board 202 controls execution of the performance based on information transmitted from the main control board 200. The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the performance button switch 150 that detects the operation of the performance button 26, and executes a performance according to the progress of the game. Various calculations are performed, and based on the calculation results, the operation of performance devices such as the liquid crystal display 32, lamps 12, 38, 39, speaker 14, performance drive device, etc. is controlled.

The main control board 200 includes a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal accessory control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230, a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250, and a special It is configured to include a game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.

The random number generation means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers or a program that generates software random numbers. The software random number can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numerical values so as to cycle through a predetermined count range). Note that in the first embodiment, "random value" includes not only a value that occurs randomly in a mathematical sense, but also a value that is generated regularly but whose acquisition timing is irregular. Also includes values that can essentially function as random numbers.

The normal symbol lottery means 220 obtains a random number value for the normal symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects game balls passing through the passage gate 48 one by one. A normal symbol lottery is performed to determine the propriety of a normal win, etc. with respect to the random numbers for the normal symbol lottery which are stored in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290 and read from the normal random number storage means 2912. Specifically, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs a normal winning determination process as a normal symbol lottery.

The normal win determination process is a process for determining whether or not the normal win is correct. In the normal winning determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs the random number determination process by referring to any of the plurality of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290. Choose whether to do so depending on the gaming state. Here, in each normal symbol lottery table, a normal win or a loss is associated with each of the 100 random numbers for the regular symbol lottery from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether the one random number value for the normal symbol lottery read from the ordinary random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win. By doing so, it is determined whether or not the winning ticket has been won. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 sets the normal winning flag to ON in the flag storage means 2916 of the main memory 290 when the normal winning is won, and when the normal winning is won, the normal winning flag is set to ON state. The winning flag of is set to OFF state.

In addition, the normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is variable probability state or time saving state is more likely to win a regular hit than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is neither variable probability state nor time saving state. The probability is set high. In other words, a normal symbol lottery that is held when the gaming state is a variable probability state or a time saving state has a higher probability of winning a regular hit than a normal symbol lottery that is carried out when the gaming state is neither a variable probability state nor a time saving state. It has become.

The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display section 70 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs a normal symbol display control process and a normal pending display control process.

In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner by blinking the two lamps of the normal symbol display section 72 until a predetermined variable time elapses, and in the normal win determination process, Depending on whether or not a hit has been won, the two lamps in the normal symbol display section 72 are turned on or off to stop displaying the normal symbols, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display section 72. .

Specifically, in the first embodiment, if the gaming state at the time when the normal symbol lottery is performed is neither a probability change state nor a time saving state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 20 seconds, and the normal symbol lottery is performed. If the gaming state at the time the game is played is a variable probability state or a time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set to 1 second, and when the gaming state is a variable probability state or a time saving state On the other hand, the opportunity to perform the regular symbol lottery comes more frequently.

In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 turns on or off the two lamps of the normal hold display section 74 according to the number of random numbers for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal random number storage means 2912. Depending on the combination of blinking, a normal pending number of 0 to 4 is displayed.

The ordinary accessory control means 224 is a means for controlling the ordinary accessory 54 based on the lottery result of the ordinary symbol lottery. When the gaming state is neither a probability change state nor a time saving state, the normal accessory control means 224 is triggered by the fact that the normal symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal winning, and the normal accessory control means 224 controls the normal accessory control unit 224 to play the normal game until 0.1 seconds have elapsed. Control is performed to operate the normal accessory 54 so that the accessory 54 returns to the reduced state after being in the enlarged state. In addition, when the gaming state is a variable probability state or a time saving state, the normal accessory control means 224 controls the normal accessory until 20 seconds have elapsed when the normal symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal winning. Control is performed to operate the normal accessory 54 so that the accessory 54 returns to the reduced state after being in the enlarged state.

Therefore, in the case of a normal win in the normal symbol lottery, if the gaming state is neither a probability change state nor a time saving state, the normal accessory 54 is set so that the ease of the game ball entering the second starting port 49 hardly increases However, if the game state is a variable probability state or a time saving state, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease with which the game ball enters the second starting port 49 increases.

The special symbol lottery means 230 selects a special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on a detection signal inputted from the first starting port switch 100 that detects game balls entering the first starting port 46 one by one. A random number value is obtained and stored in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290 as a first special random number value. Further, the special symbol lottery means 230 receives a special symbol from the random number generating means 210 based on a detection signal input from the second starting port switch 103 that detects game balls entering the second starting port 49 one by one. A random number value for lottery is acquired and stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as a second special random number value. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first special random number value or the second special random value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery to determine whether the jackpot is a hit or not. Specifically, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, etc. as a special symbol lottery.

The jackpot determining process is a process of reading out one jackpot deciding random number included in the first special random number or second special random number stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and deciding whether or not the jackpot is correct. Here, one jackpot determination random value is obtained from 65536 jackpot determination random values from 0 to 65535 based on a detection signal being input from the first starting port switch 100 or the second starting port switch 103. , which is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 determines which of the plurality of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 should be referred to in the random number determination process, depending on the gaming state. and select. Here, in each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot or a loss is associated with each of 65,536 jackpot determination random numbers from 0 to 65,535. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the selected jackpot lottery table and determines whether or not the read one jackpot determination random value is associated with a jackpot, thereby determining whether or not a jackpot has been won. Determine. In addition, when the special symbol lottery means 230 wins the jackpot, it sets the jackpot winning flag in the flag storage means 2916 to the ON state, and when it is a loss, sets the jackpot winning flag to the OFF state. Set.

In addition, the jackpot lottery table selected when the gaming state is variable probability is set to have a higher probability of winning the jackpot than the jackpot lottery table selected when the gaming state is normal or time saving. There is. In other words, the jackpot determination process (special symbol lottery) performed when the gaming state is in a variable probability state has a higher probability of winning the jackpot than the jackpot determination processing (special symbol lottery) performed when the gaming state is normal or time saving state. The probability of winning is high.

The symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a jackpot is won in the jackpot determination process, and one symbol determination random number included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914 is performed. This is a process of reading out a numerical value and deciding which of the 16 round probability variable symbols, 4 round probability variable symbols, 16 round regular symbols, and 4 round regular symbols to use as the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot). Here, one symbol determination random value is obtained from 100 symbol determination random values from 0 to 99 based on a detection signal being input from the first starting port switch 100 or the second starting port switch 103. , which is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

In the symbol determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 determines which of the plurality of symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 should be referred to in the random number determination process, using the read one symbol determination random number. The selection is made depending on whether the numerical value is stored as the first special random number or the second special random number. Here, in each symbol lottery table, for each of the 100 symbol determination random values from 0 to 99, one of the 16 round probability variable symbols, the 4 round probability variable symbols, the 16 round regular symbols, and the 4 round regular symbols corresponds. It was attached. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the selected symbol lottery table and determines which of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols the read one symbol determination random value is associated with. It is determined which of the jackpot symbols has won. Further, the special symbol lottery means 230 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning jackpot symbol to the ON state in the flag storage means 2916.

The special display control means 240 is a means for controlling the display of the status display section 70 based on the lottery result of the special symbol lottery, and includes a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, and a first special reservation. Display control processing and second special hold display control processing are performed.

The first special symbol display control process is a process performed when the first special random number value is read from the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 controls the predetermined variation. After the first special symbol is variably displayed by blinking the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display section 76 until time elapses, the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display section 76 is turned on in a predetermined manner. By doing so, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed.

In the first embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined in correspondence to each of the four types of jackpot symbols and loss. The special display control means 240 operates in a mode depending on whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and, if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a mode according to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process. Then, by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display section 76, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the result of the special symbol lottery is displayed on the first special symbol display section 76.

The second special symbol display control process is a process that is performed when the second special random number value is read from the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery is performed. The special display control means 240 displays the second special symbol in a variable manner by blinking the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display section 80 until a predetermined variable time period elapses, and then displays the second special symbol on the second special symbol display section 80. By lighting up the 7-segment display in a predetermined manner, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed.

The special display control means 240 operates in a mode depending on whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and, if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, in a mode according to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process. Then, by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display section 80, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the result of the special symbol lottery is displayed on the second special symbol display section 80.

In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 turns on the two lamps of the first special hold display section 78 according to the number of first special random numbers stored in the special random number storage means 2914. Alternatively, the first special reservation number of 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of turning off or blinking.

In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 turns on the two lamps of the second special hold display section 82 according to the number of second special random numbers stored in the special random number storage means 2914. Alternatively, the second special reservation number of 0 to 4 is displayed by a combination of turning off or blinking.

As shown in FIG. 5, the gaming state transition control means 250 performs a gaming state transition control process of shifting the gaming state between a normal state, a special gaming state, a variable probability state, and a time saving state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition. I do. As the gaming state transition condition, one condition or a plurality of conditions may be determined. If multiple conditions are defined, the gaming state is determined based on the fulfillment of one of the multiple predefined conditions, or the fulfillment of all of the multiple predefined conditions. It is possible to move to another gaming state.

The normal state is a gaming state corresponding to an initial state among a plurality of types of gaming states, and it is possible to shift from the normal state to a special gaming state. In the normal state, a normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to a regular symbol lottery table in which the probability of winning a regular hit is set to approximately 1/20, and a lottery table in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set to 1/319 is selected. With reference to this, a special symbol lottery is performed.

In the normal state, the probability of winning a normal win in the normal symbol lottery is as low as about 1/20, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is set to be long, and the period in which the normal accessory 54 is in the enlarged state is 0. Since the time is as short as 1 second, it is difficult to enter the game ball into the second starting port 49.

The special game state is started based on winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery in the normal state, variable probability state, or time saving state, and the special game is played for a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) according to the type of jackpot symbol. Executes and exits.

Specifically, when the special game state is started based on the winning flag of the 16 round probability variable symbol being set to ON state in the special symbol lottery, the special game of 16 rounds from the 1st round to the 16th round is started. The special game state ends on condition that the game is executed.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the winning flag of the 4-round probability variable symbol being set to ON state in the special symbol lottery, 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round are executed. On this condition, the special game state ends.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the winning flag of the 16th round normal symbol being set to the ON state in the special symbol lottery, 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round are executed. On this condition, the special game state ends.

In addition, when the special game state is started based on the winning flag of the 4th round normal symbol being set to the ON state in the special symbol lottery, 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round are executed. On this condition, the special game state ends.

The variable probability state is started when the special gaming state that was started based on the winning flag of the 16th round variable probability symbol or the 4th round variable probability symbol (probable variable symbol) is set to the ON state has ended, and the variable probability state is started. It is possible to shift to a special gaming state or a normal state. In addition, in the variable probability state, a normal symbol lottery is performed with reference to a normal symbol lottery table in which the probability of winning a regular hit is set to approximately 19/20, and a jackpot lottery table in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set to 1/31. This is more advantageous to the player than in the normal state in that the special symbol lottery is carried out with reference to the drawings. Then, the variable probability state ends on condition that the number of times the special symbol lottery has been performed in the variable probability state reaches 9999 times, and the state is shifted to the normal state.

Specifically, when the special gaming state ends, the gaming state transition control means 250 writes a value (for example, 9999) corresponding to a predetermined number of games (for example, 9999 times) into the variable probability end determination counter 2930 of the main memory 290. Each time a special symbol lottery is performed in a variable probability state, a decrement update is performed to subtract a value (for example, 1) corresponding to the number of games played once from the stored value of the variable probability end determination counter 2930. Then, when the stored value of the variable probability end determination counter 2930 reaches a threshold value (for example, 0), the variable probability state is ended and the normal state is started. However, in the variable probability state, the probability of winning the jackpot in the special symbol drawing is set to 1/31, so the special gaming state will start before the number of special symbol drawings in the variable probability state reaches 9999, and There is almost no transition from the normal state to the normal state.

In addition, in the variable probability state, the probability of winning a normal win in the normal symbol lottery is as high as about 19/20, and the variation time of the normal symbol is as short as 1 second, and the period in which the normal accessory 54 is in the expanded state is 20 seconds. Since it is longer, it is advantageous for the player in that it is easier to enter the game ball into the second starting port 49 than in the normal state.

In addition, in the variable probability state, a shorter variation time is often set as the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol regardless of the number of reservations, so the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery is more frequent than in the normal state. It is set to arrive in

The time saving state is triggered by the end of the special gaming state that was started based on the winning flag of the 16th round normal symbol or the 4th round normal symbol being set to the ON state, and from the time saving state, the special gaming state is started. Alternatively, it is possible to transition to the normal state. In addition, in the time saving state, the normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to the normal symbol lottery table in which the probability of winning a normal hit is set to approximately 19/20, as in the variable probability state, but the probability of winning the jackpot is the same as in the normal state. This is more disadvantageous to the player than the variable probability state in that the special symbol lottery is performed with reference to a jackpot lottery table in which the ratio is set to about 1/319. Then, the time saving state ends on the condition that the number of times the special symbol lottery has been performed in the time saving state reaches 100, and the state shifts to the normal state.

Specifically, the gaming state transition control means 250, triggered by the gaming state being shifted to the time saving state, sets the time saving end determination counter 2932 in the main memory 290 to a value corresponding to a predetermined number of games (for example, 100 times). A value (for example, 100) is written, and a decrement update is performed in which a value (for example, 1) corresponding to one game count is subtracted from the stored value of the time-saving end determination counter 2932 every time a special symbol lottery is performed in the time-saving state. . When the stored value of the time-saving end determination counter 2932 reaches a threshold value (for example, 0), the time-saving state is ended.

In addition, in the short time state, as in the variable probability state, the probability of winning a normal win in the normal symbol lottery is as high as about 19/20, and the variation time of the normal symbol is as short as 1 second, and the normal accessory 54 is in the expanded state. Since the period during which the game occurs is as long as 20 seconds, it is advantageous for the player in that it is easier to enter the game ball into the second starting port 49 than in the normal state.

In addition, in the short time state, similar to the variable probability state, a shorter fluctuation time is often set as the fluctuation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol regardless of the number of reservations, so the special symbol Opportunities to conduct a lottery are becoming more frequent.

The special game execution means 260 is means for executing a special game based on the lottery result of the special symbol lottery, and performs a first special game execution process to a fourth special game execution process.

The first special game execution process is executed based on the fact that the 16-round variable probability symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 selects a predetermined round for the 16-round variable probability symbol as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933. A value corresponding to 16 times (for example, 16) is set, and each time the special accessory 56 completes an operation in a predetermined manner in each round, one round is added to the stored value of the round counter 2933. Incremental update is performed to add a value (for example, 1) corresponding to the number. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 16), the special gaming state ends.

Specifically, in the first special game execution process, in the special game of each round from the 1st round to the 16th round, the open timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 becomes open, or When the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, the value of the big winning number counter 2936 to which a value (for example, 1) corresponding to one game ball is added reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10). Then, the drive control of the special accessory object 56 is performed so that the special accessory object 56 is in the closed state. Then, "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933, assuming that the condition for ending one round is satisfied.

The second special game execution process is executed based on the fact that the 4-round variable probability symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 selects a predetermined round for the 4-round variable probability symbol as the upper limit of the round counter 2933. A value corresponding to 4 times (for example, 4) is set, and each time the special accessory 56 completes an operation in a predetermined manner in each round, one round is added to the stored value of the round counter 2933. Incremental update is performed to add a value (for example, 1) corresponding to the number. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 4), the special gaming state ends.

Specifically, in the second special game execution process, in the special game of each round from the first round to the fourth round, the open timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 becomes open, or When the value of the big winning number counter 2936 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special accessory object 56 is performed so that the special accessory object 56 is in a closed state. Then, "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933, assuming that the condition for ending one round is satisfied.

The third special game execution process is executed based on the fact that the 16th round normal symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 selects a predetermined round for the 16th round normal symbol as the upper limit of the round counter 2933. A value corresponding to 16 times (for example, 16) is set, and each time the special accessory 56 completes an operation in a predetermined manner in each round, one round is added to the stored value of the round counter 2933. Incremental update is performed to add a value (for example, 1) corresponding to the number. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 16), the special gaming state ends.

Specifically, in the third special game execution process, in the special game of each round from the 1st round to the 16th round, the open timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 becomes open, or When the value of the big winning number counter 2936 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special accessory object 56 is performed so that the special accessory object 56 is in a closed state. Then, "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933, assuming that the condition for ending one round is satisfied.

The fourth special game execution process is executed based on the fact that the 4th round normal symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 selects a predetermined round for the 4th round normal symbol as the upper limit of the round counter 2933. A value corresponding to 4 times (for example, 4) is set, and each time the special accessory 56 completes an operation in a predetermined manner in each round, one round is added to the stored value of the round counter 2933. Incremental update is performed to add a value (for example, 1) corresponding to the number. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 4), the special gaming state ends.

Specifically, in the fourth special game execution process, in the special game of each round from the first round to the fourth round, the open timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special accessory 56 becomes open, or When the value of the big winning number counter 2936 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10), the drive control of the special accessory object 56 is performed so that the special accessory object 56 is in a closed state. Then, "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933, assuming that the condition for ending one round is satisfied.

The payout control means 270 receives a detection signal from the first starting port switch 100, a detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, a detection signal from the second starting port switch 103, or a detection signal from the count switch 104. Based on this, control is performed to cause the payout device 130 to pay out a number of game balls corresponding to the number of prize balls predetermined for each detection signal. The number of prize balls may be any number as long as it is one or more, and the number of prize balls paid out with each of the first starting opening switch 100, general winning opening switch 101, second starting opening switch 103, or count switch 104. may be set to be different, or may be set to the same number of prize balls.

The payout device 130 performs an operation of paying out the number of game balls instructed by the payout control means 270. This payout device 130 is provided with a payout motor in a game ball tank that stores game balls, and the payout control means 270 controls the rotation angle of the payout motor to dispense the specified number of game balls. Make the game balls pay out from the tank. Further, the payout device 130 is equipped with a payout switch that operates every time one game ball is paid out, and the payout control means 270 actually controls the payout from the payout device 130 based on the payout signal from the payout switch. The number of game balls played can be managed.

The communication control means 280 controls sending various commands generated according to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202. Note that in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, only unidirectional communication from the main control board 200 to the sub control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub control board 202; The control board 202 is communicatively connected to the main control board 200 so that information cannot be transmitted thereto.

Next, the sub control board 202 will be explained. The sub-control board 202 includes a production control means 300 and a sub-memory 302. Further, the sub-memory 302 includes multiple types of RAM and ROM, and various data stored in the sub-memory 302 are stored in each RAM and ROM. The effect control means 300 displays effects on the liquid crystal display 32 based on various commands sent from the main control board 200, input signals from the effect button switch 150, and effect data stored in the ROM of the sub-memory 302. A production device that displays an image, lights up light emitting parts such as lamps 12, 38, 39, outputs production sound from the speaker 14, drives a production drive device to operate a production, etc. By controlling this, the performance device is made to perform a performance for enlivening the game or assisting the game.

The liquid crystal display 32 executes a performance by displaying a performance image on its display surface. Furthermore, the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is a composite image formed by superimposing a plurality of layers in which drawing materials (material images) are arranged.

The effect screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is composed of, for example, 30 frames per second (so-called 30 fps frame rate). Therefore, for example, in the case of a performance pattern having a length of one minute, the performance screen is made up of a total of 1800 frames (60 seconds x 30 frames).

The substance of each frame is one composite image in which multiple drawing materials are superimposed. There are N virtual layers in each frame, and each drawing material is arranged in each layer. A priority is set for each drawing material to be superimposed, and a drawing material with a lower priority is arranged in a lower layer, and a drawing material with a higher priority is arranged in an upper layer. Note that the composite image forming each frame can be constructed by overlapping up to N drawing materials by arranging the drawing materials on all N layers, but each composite image The number of drawing materials that make up an image varies and is not necessarily composed of N drawing materials. In addition, when the number of drawing materials composing a composite image is less than N, the layers are not necessarily used from the bottom without empty numbers, and the layers are Because of the usage, unused layers may occur in the middle portion as appropriate.

When drawing one frame, drawing materials are drawn one by one on the appropriate layer starting from the drawing material with the lowest priority. For example, if one frame consists of 5 drawing materials, the drawing material with the lowest priority (5th priority) is placed on the lowest layer and drawn at a predetermined position. . Next, the drawing material with the second lowest priority (fourth priority) is placed in a layer above the layer on which the fifth priority drawing material is drawn, and is drawn at a predetermined position. In this way, the drawing materials are drawn one after another according to the priority, and finally the drawing material with the highest priority (first priority) is placed in a layer higher than the drawing material with the second priority. They are arranged in layers and drawn at predetermined positions. When all drawing materials have been drawn on each layer, a composite image of these layers viewed from the upper side (front side) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 as a composite image corresponding to that frame. In other words, when the composite image is viewed on the liquid crystal display 32, the drawing materials arranged in the lower layer are covered by the drawing materials arranged in the upper layer. In other words, the higher the layer, the higher the display priority on the liquid crystal display 32.

Note that the drawing process for each composite image is executed using a frame buffer, which is one area in the VRAM of the sub-memory 302, and the effect control means 300 performs the drawing process. Drawing a new drawing material on an upper layer means drawing the new drawing material over the image buffered in the frame buffer. The effect control means 300 draws the drawing materials constituting a certain frame in the frame buffer in order from the one with the lowest priority, and when all the drawing materials have been drawn, the completed composite image is added to the frame buffer on the frame buffer. will be displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 as an image. Note that the drawing material is stored in a drawing material storage area (ROM) of the sub-memory 302. Furthermore, each drawing material may be a still image or a moving image (movie).

A drawing material with a lower priority may not be partially or completely visible because a drawing material with a higher priority is drawn on top of it. However, it is possible to set the transparency for each drawing material, and this does not apply if the transparency set for the drawing material that is superimposed on it is not 0 (completely opaque). In some cases, the presence of hidden drawing materials on the lower side can be visually recognized in the frame image. In addition, to explain in more detail, the drawing material is composed of two-dimensional pixels, and each pixel is expressed by RGBA (RGB+A (alpha value)), where A indicates transparency (opacity). For example, a pixel for which A is set to 255 (the upper limit value when A is represented by 8 bits) becomes transparent. Therefore, depending on the number of pixels for which A is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (for example, 255), lower drawing materials can be confirmed.

2. Details of the demonstration performance executed on the gaming machine Next, details of the demonstration performance displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment will be explained. In the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, when a game ball enters the first starting port 46 or the second starting port 49, the results of the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. It is configured to display the first to third performance symbols to notify the player. The first to third effect patterns are arranged on the left, center, and right sides of the liquid crystal display 32, respectively, and are composed of eight types of patterns imitating, for example, "1" to "8", and "1" to "8". After the symbols that are cyclically displayed are changed in the order of "8" and "1" is displayed after "8", one symbol is stopped and displayed.

The production control means 300 stops displaying the same symbol (for example, "777", etc.) in the first to third production symbols when there is a jackpot in the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery. , in the case of a loss, at least one effect pattern different from other effect patterns is stopped and displayed. Furthermore, when the first to third performance symbols are displayed in a static manner after being variably displayed, the performance control means 300 maintains the stopped display state for at least one second before starting the variable display again.

Then, the performance control means 300 maintains the state in which the first to third performance symbols are stopped and displayed without a game ball entering the first starting port 46 or the second starting port 49 for a predetermined period of time (for example, 30 seconds). If the game continues for a period of time, the liquid crystal display 32 displays a demonstration effect indicating that the game is not being played. The demonstration performance is played in a loop until a game ball enters the first starting port 46 or the second starting port 49.

<Progress of the production content in the demonstration production>
In the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, the demo production is configured to display the first part, second part, third part, and fourth part in this order, and then loop back to the first part. One set of performances from the first part to the fourth part is executed for approximately 100 seconds. In other words, in the demonstration performance, the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed, the third part is displayed after the second part, and the fourth part is displayed after the third part, so that The first part is displayed cyclically after one set of effects ends and the fourth part ends.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the content of the performance in each part displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 when the demo performance is executed in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, and FIG. 6(B) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the first part of the demonstration production. FIG. 6(C) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the second part of the demonstration production. FIG. 6D is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance.

As shown in FIG. 6A, in the first part of the demonstration performance of the first embodiment, a manufacturer logo image 321 showing the manufacturer name and manufacturer logo of the pachinko machine 1 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. . The first part lasts approximately 5 seconds. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6(A), the first part includes a character image 322 unique to the pachinko machine 1 (see FIG. 6(B)), a model image 323 indicating the model name of the pachinko machine 1 (see FIG. (C)) is not displayed.

As shown in FIG. 6(B), in the second part of the demonstration performance of the first embodiment, a character image 322 unique to the pachinko machine 1 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. The second part is a part that continues for about 70 seconds, in which characters including the character image 322 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and characters introducing the displayed characters are also displayed. In addition, in the second part, text introducing the specifications and features of the gameplay is displayed along with an effect in which the characters of the pachinko machine 1 are displayed, and this is the part that introduces the features of the pachinko machine 1 to players. There is. In the second part, the model image 323 indicating the model name of the pachinko machine 1 and the attention-calling image 324 (see FIG. 6(D)) calling attention to the game are not displayed.

As shown in FIG. 6C, in the third part of the demonstration performance of the first embodiment, a model image 323 as a name image indicating the model name of the pachinko machine 1 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. . The third part lasts approximately 20 seconds.

As shown in FIG. 6(D), in the fourth part of the demonstration performance of the first embodiment, by calling the player's attention against continuing the game, the player is prevented from becoming excessively absorbed in the game. A warning image 324 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32 as an image to prevent the player from becoming addicted to the game or becoming addicted to the game. The fourth part continues for approximately 5 seconds. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6(D), the fourth part includes a character image 322 unique to the pachinko machine 1 (see FIG. 6(B)) and a model image 323 indicating the model name of the pachinko machine 1 (see FIG. 6(B)). (C)) is not displayed.

The warning image 324 consists of an image with the words "Be careful not to get addicted to it. Pachinko and Pachislot are games that can be enjoyed in moderation" written in three lines, and the top row has a red background and white text. is displayed, and the background color is white and red text is displayed at the bottom. Note that the alert image 324 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 6(D), and may also include a single line displaying the words ``Be careful not to get addicted to pachinko and pachislot, which are games that can be enjoyed in moderation.'' , ``Pachinko and pachislot are games to be enjoyed in moderation. Be careful not to get addicted to them.'' Furthermore, the attention-calling image 324 only needs to be composed of a size and color that can be easily changed by the player.

<Details of the passage of time in the demonstration production>
As described above, in the first embodiment, the demonstration performance includes a first part of about 5 seconds, a second part of about 70 seconds, a third part of about 20 seconds, and a fourth part of about 5 seconds. It consists of a total of about 100 seconds of performance. In other words, regarding the time of each part in the demonstration performance, the first part and the fourth part are shorter than the third part, the third part is shorter than the second part, and the second part is shorter than the first part. The duration is longer than the total of the first part, the third part, and the fourth part.

Because of this configuration, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment has a second part that displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322, and a third part that displays the model image 323. To make it easier for a player to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 using the demonstration performance by having a longer time than the fourth part in which the parts and the attention-calling image 324 are displayed, and also taking the longest time in the demonstration performance. In addition, by displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during the demonstration performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

Further, as described above, the pachinko machine 1 has a model display section that displays the model name of the pachinko machine 1 at approximately the center of the upper part of the front frame 10 that is attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. 15 is provided, so that when the pachinko machine 1 is viewed from the front, the player can easily recognize the model name of the pachinko machine 1.

Because of this configuration, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment has a model display section 15 on the front frame 10 so that the player can always see the model name. The third part, which displays the model name of the pachinko machine 1 using the model image 323, allows players to recognize the model name without spending a long time. By allowing the longest time to be spent on the second part, it is possible to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 through the demonstration performance, and the player's interest in the game machine can be improved through the demonstration performance.

Further, as described above, the launching device of the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment is configured to be able to launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second). . Generally, game halls are configured so that 250 game balls (rental balls) can be rented out per unit amount (for example, 1000 yen). The firing device of the pachinko machine 1 is configured to require at least approximately 151.5 seconds to fire 250 game balls. As mentioned above, in the demonstration production, it takes about 100 seconds to execute one set of the first part to the fourth part.

In other words, in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, the time required to view one set of demonstration performances (approximately 100 seconds) is the number of game balls that can be fired per unit time (60 seconds). 250 game balls are fired, which is longer than the shortest time (60 seconds) that elapses before a certain 99 game balls are fired, and is the number of game balls that can be rented per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 151.5 seconds) that elapses until It is possible to increase a person's interest in the demonstration performance, and also to display a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation.

The time period of the fourth part in which the attention image 324 is displayed (approximately 95 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to approximately 100 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect) is the time period of the fourth part when the attention image 324 is displayed. The time period of the third part that constitutes the first time period in the embodiment and in which the model image 323 is displayed (approximately 75 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to approximately 95 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect) The second part of the time period in which the character image 322 is displayed and the model image 323 and the attention-calling image 324 are not displayed (the time period when the demonstration effect is started) constitutes the second time period in the first embodiment. The period from approximately 5 seconds after the start to approximately 75 seconds after the start of the demonstration performance constitutes the third time period in the first embodiment.

<Summary of demonstration effects in the gaming machine of the first embodiment>
As mentioned above, in the gaming machine that executes the game using the gaming value of the first embodiment,
a model display section that displays the model name;
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The model display section is arranged on the front door,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance is played in a loop,
The demo production includes a first part, a second part, a third part, and a fourth part,
the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed;
the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed;
The fourth part is displayed after the third part is displayed,
In the first part, an image showing the manufacturer name of the gaming machine is displayed,
In the second part, a character image is displayed, and a name image indicating the model name is not displayed,
In the third part, the name image is displayed,
In the fourth part, an image that calls attention to the game is displayed,
In the first part and the fourth part, the character image and the name image are not displayed,
Regarding the time of each part in the demo production,
The first part and the fourth part are shorter than the third part,
the third part is shorter than the second part;
The second part is longer than the sum of the first part, the third part, and the fourth part,
The demonstration performance is longer than the shortest time until the first number of game values are fired, and shorter than the shortest time until the second number of game values are fired,
The first number is the number of game values that can be fired per unit time,
The second number is the number of gaming values that can be lent out per unit amount of money.

With this configuration, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment has a second part that displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322, a third part that displays the model image 323, and a warning image. By using the longer time than the fourth part where 324 is displayed and the longest time in the demonstration performance, it is possible to use the demonstration performance to make it easier for players to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1, and also to make the demo performance easier to imagine. By displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 has a model display section 15 on the front frame 10 so that the model name can be seen by the player at all times. Since the player can recognize the model name without spending a long time on the machine name, the longest time can be spent on the second part, which displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322. The demonstration performance can help the player imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1, and the demonstration performance can improve the player's interest in the game machine.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 has 99 game balls, which is the number of game balls that can be fired per unit time (60 seconds), in the time required to view one set of performances in the demo performance (approximately 100 seconds). is longer than the shortest time (60 seconds) that elapses until 250 game balls are fired, which is the number of game balls that can be rented per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 151.5 seconds), one set of demonstration productions can be viewed in an appropriate amount of time that is not excessively short or long, increasing the players' interest in the demonstration productions. In addition, multiple pieces of information can be displayed with appropriate time allocation.

3. Details of the outer rail and inner rail of the pachinko machine As shown in FIG. 8, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment has an outer rail 27 and an inner rail 28. Further, a guide path (guidance area) 29 is formed between the outer rail 27 and the inner rail 28 for guiding the game ball fired from the firing device to the game area 4. Further, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a ball return prevention mechanism 5 is provided at the upper end of the guide path 29 to prevent the game ball from returning from the game area 4 to the guide path 29 (on the firing device side). ing. Specifically, the ball return prevention mechanism 5 is provided at the upper end of the inner rail 28. In other words, the ball return prevention mechanism 5 is provided in a boundary area 700 as a boundary between the guide passage 29 and the gaming area 4.

The ball return prevention mechanism 5 includes a main body case 52, a cover 53, a ball return prevention member 51, and a support shaft 57.

The main body case 52 has a bottom part 52a on which the back side contacts the game board 6 and the ball return prevention member 51 is placed on the front side, a wall part 52b that covers the part of the ball return prevention member 51 on the gaming area 4 side, and a ball part 52b. It has a stopper wall 52c that restricts the rotation of the return prevention member 51 toward the game area 4 side. In the first embodiment, the wall portion 52b and the stopper wall 52c are integrally formed, and it can be said that the upper portion (upper end portion) of the wall portion 52b serves as the stopper wall 52c. Further, in the first embodiment, the main body case 52 is formed integrally with the inner rail 28, but a gap is formed between the upper end of the inner rail 28 and the stopper wall 52c. The main body case 52 has a cutout S, which is a space surrounded by a bottom surface 52a and a wall 52b, and is a space in which a part of the ball return prevention member 51 (a weight 54c to be described later) can be accommodated. have. Further, from the upper surface side of the notch S, in other words, the gap between the upper end of the wall portion 52b (stopper wall 52c) and the upper end of the inner rail 28 (the upper surface opening of the notch S), a part of the ball return prevention member 51 is (An on-off valve 54b to be described later) protrudes.

The bottom surface portion 52a is formed with a first bearing portion 52d into which one end of the support shaft 57 can be inserted (supported), and a guide groove 52e into which an engaging pin of a ball return prevention member 51, which will be described later, can be inserted. There is. Further, the bottom portion 52a is provided with a boss having a screw hole 52f and projecting forward, and a positioning pin 52g that enables positioning of the cover 53.

The cover 53 has a substantially plate shape. The cover 53 also has a screw insertion hole 53a into which the screw 55 can be inserted, a pin insertion hole 53b into which the positioning pin 52g of the main body case 52 can be inserted, and a second hole into which the other end of the support shaft 57 can be inserted (supported). 2 bearing parts 53c. Then, the positioning pin 52g of the main body case 52 is inserted into the pin insertion hole 53b, and the screw inserted into the screw insertion hole 53a is screwed into the screw hole 52f of the main body case 52, so that the cover 53 is attached to the main body case 52. It looks like this. Moreover, the cover 53 covers the front side of the notch S when it is attached to the main body case 52.

The ball return prevention member 51 has a shaft hole 54a, an on-off valve 54b, and a weight portion 54c. The on-off valve 54b and the weight portion 54c are bent in a dogleg shape with the shaft hole 54a as a boundary. A support shaft 57 is inserted through the shaft hole 54a, and one end of this support shaft 57 is engaged with a first bearing portion 52d of the bottom surface portion 52a, and the other end thereof is engaged with a second bearing portion 53c of the cover 53. It has been stopped. Thereby, the ball return prevention member 51 is rotatably supported by the main body case 52 and the cover 53.

The on-off valve 54b is formed into a substantially rectangular plate shape, and its length in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) is long enough for a game ball returning from the game area 4 to the boundary area 700 to collide with it. ing. The on-off valve 54b has a first side surface portion 540b facing the guide passage 29, and a second side surface portion 541b opposite to the first side surface portion 540b and facing the gaming area 4 (left-hand playing area 4a). (See Figure 8). The first side surface portion 540b is a portion that collides with a game ball that is fired from the firing device and passes through the guide path 29. The second side surface portion 541b is a portion that collides with the game ball attempting to return to the guide path 29 from the game area 4.

The tip of the on-off valve 54b is tapered. Specifically, the vertical length of the first side surface portion 540b is longer than the vertical length of the second side surface portion 541b, and the distance from the tip of the first side surface portion 540b to the second side surface portion 541b is longer than that of the second side surface portion 541b. It slopes downward toward the tip. Furthermore, a protruding portion 541c that protrudes toward the gaming area 4 is formed in the center of the second side surface portion 541b.

The weight portion 54c is thicker and heavier than the on-off valve 54b. An engagement pin is provided protruding from the back side of the weight portion 54c, and this engagement pin is inserted into the guide groove 52e of the bottom surface portion 52a. As described above, the ball return prevention member 51 is rotatably supported by the main body case 52 and the cover 53, and is movable between the open state and the closed state. In the normal state, the ball return prevention member 51 is urged to rotate in one direction (counterclockwise) about the support shaft 57 by the weight of the weight portion 54c, and the engagement pin is in the guide groove 52e. It is in contact with one end. As a result, the ball return prevention member 51 cannot rotate any further and maintains the closed state. On the other hand, the ball return prevention member 51 is rotated in the other direction (clockwise) about the support shaft 57 by the contact force when it comes into contact with the game ball fired from the firing device, and the above-mentioned stopper When it comes into contact with the wall 52c, it becomes open. Note that the rotation of the ball return prevention member 51 toward the gaming area 4 side may not be restricted by the stopper wall 52c. That is, the stopper wall 52c only needs to be in contact with the ball return prevention member 51 in the open state, and the term "contacted" here means contacting or being close to the ball return prevention member 51.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the ball return prevention mechanism 5 when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the closed state (first state) and the ball return prevention mechanism 5 when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the open state (second state) The return prevention mechanism 5 will be explained. FIG. 8 is a front view of the ball return prevention mechanism 5 when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the closed state, and FIG. 9 is a front view of the ball return prevention mechanism 5 when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the open state.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the closed state (first state), the on-off valve 54b protrudes from the upper surface opening of the notch S toward the exit of the boundary region 700 in a substantially vertical posture. There is. In this state, the distance (specific distance) from the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 (on-off valve 54b) to the outer rail 27 is shorter than the diameter of the game ball B and is the shortest. Note that this distance means the shortest distance from the tip of the on-off valve 54b (first side surface portion 540b) of the ball return prevention member 51 to the outer rail 27. Therefore, even if the game ball B that has once entered the game area 4 collides with the game nails 37 etc. arranged in the game area 4 and bounces back toward the boundary area 700, it will collide with the ball return prevention member 51. It turns out. In addition, the ball return prevention member 51 maintains the closed state even if it is collided with the game ball B, so it does not rotate counterclockwise. Therefore, the ball return prevention member 51 prevents the game ball B that has entered the game area 4 from returning to the guide path 29 when in the closed state.

When the game ball B fired from the firing device towards the game area 4 in the state shown in FIG. 8 ascends the guide path 29, enters the boundary area 700 and contacts the on-off valve 54b, the ball returns due to the contact force. The prevention member 51 can be displaced from the closed state to the open state. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, the ball return prevention member 51 rotates in the direction of opening the exit of the boundary region 700, and when it collides with the stopper wall 52c, further rotation is restricted and the ball returns to the open state. (second state). In this state, the distance (specific distance) from the tip of the on-off valve 54b (first side surface portion 540b) to the outer rail 27 is longer than the diameter of the game ball B and is the longest. Therefore, when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the open state, it allows the game ball fired by the firing device to enter the game area 4 from the boundary area 700. In addition, after the ball return prevention member 51 is displaced to the open state, it instantaneously rotates in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) under the urging force of the weight portion 54c and is again displaced to the closed state shown in FIG. .

As described above, the ball return prevention mechanism 5 is configured to prevent the game ball that has entered the game area 4 from returning to the guide path 29 when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the closed state. In the first embodiment, the ball return prevention member 51 is further configured to prevent the game ball from returning to the guide path (guide area) 29 even in a state (third state) in the middle of being displaced from the closed state to the open state. It has become.

FIG. 10 shows how a game ball that has entered the game area 4 (left-handed hitting area 4a) is about to return to the boundary area 700 while the ball return prevention member 51 is in the middle of being displaced from the closed state to the open state. The figures shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 are enlarged views of the area surrounded by the dotted line shown in FIG.

In FIG. 10, one game ball Ba fired from the firing device toward the game area 4 enters the boundary area 700 from the guide path 29, and enters the ball return prevention member 51 (opening/closing valve 54b), the outer rail 27, and others. is in contact with game ball Bb. In FIG. 11, the point of contact between one game ball Ba and the first side surface portion 540b of the on-off valve 54b is denoted by P1, the point of contact with the outer rail 27 is denoted by P2, and the point of contact with another game ball Bb is denoted by P3. ing.

Further, another game ball Bb enters the boundary area 700 from the game area 4 and is in contact with the tip of the ball return prevention member 51, the outer rail 27, and the first game ball Ba. In FIG. 11, the point of contact between another game ball Bb and the tip of the on-off valve 54b is indicated by the symbol P4, the point of contact with the outer rail 27 is indicated by the symbol P5, and the lowest point of the other game ball Bb is indicated by the symbol P6. ing.

In the state shown in FIG. 11, the distance (specific distance) from the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 to the outer rail 27 is longer than in the open state (see FIG. 9) than in the closed state (see FIG. 8). is also shorter. In other words, it is the distance between the closed state and the open state. Moreover, the distance H1 from the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 (on-off valve 54b) to the outer rail 27 is shorter than the distance H2 from the lowest point P6 of the other game balls Bb to the outer rail 27. In other words, the distance H1 from the contact point P4 between the other game ball Bb and the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 to the outer rail 27 is equal to the distance H2 from the lowest point P6 of the other game ball Bb to the outer rail 27. shorter than In other words, the length H1 of the perpendicular line L1 drawn from the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 to the outer rail 27 is longer than the length H2 of the perpendicular line L2 drawn from the lowest point P6 of the other game ball Bb to the outer rail 27. It's shorter.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the above-mentioned intermediate state, the other game ball Bb is connected to the contact point P4 of the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 (on-off valve 54b). The distance H3 from the contact point P3 between the game ball Bb and one game ball Ba is shorter than the distance H4 from the lowest point P6 of the other game balls to the contact point P3. That is, the length of the line segment L3 connecting the contact point P4 and the contact point P3 is shorter than the length of the line segment L4 connecting the lowest point P6 and the contact point P3.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the above-described intermediate state, the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 reaches the lowest point P6 of the other game ball Bb. It doesn't rotate much. Specifically, the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 is located at a position higher than the lowest point P6 of the game ball Bb in the vertical direction, and to the left of the lowest point P6 of the game ball Bb in the horizontal direction (guide path 29 side). That is, the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 is located at the upper left with respect to the lowest point P6.

Even if the game ball Bb tries to return to the guide path 29 after the collision between the game ball Ba and the game ball Bb as described above, it will come into contact with the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 (on-off valve 54b) from the game area 4 side. I will do it. Therefore, the ball return prevention member 51 is likely to be subjected to a contact force from the game area 4 side toward the guide path 29 side and rotate counterclockwise. Therefore, the ball return prevention member 51 blocks the exit of the boundary area 700 more than when the game ball Ba and the game ball Bb collide, and it becomes difficult for the game ball Bb to return to the guide path 29. As a result, even when the game ball Ba and the game ball Bb collide as shown in FIG. 10, the game ball Bb can be prevented from returning to the guide path 29. In other words, it is possible to prevent two game balls from returning to the guide path 29 in succession.

In addition, when the game ball Ba and the game ball Bb collide as shown in FIG. 11, the distance (specific distance) H1 from the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 (on-off valve 54b) to the outer rail 27 If the distance from the lowest point P6 of the game ball Bb to the outer rail 27 is longer than the distance H2, the game ball Bb may enter between the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 and the outer rail 27 after the collision. becomes possible. Then, since the game ball Bb can come into contact with the tip of the ball return prevention member 51 from above, the ball return prevention member 51 is more likely to rotate clockwise. Therefore, the ball return prevention member 51 opens the exit of the boundary area 700 more than when the game ball Ba and the game ball Bb collide, and cannot prevent the game ball Bb from returning to the guide path 29.

As described above, the pachinko machine 1 according to the first embodiment has sufficient improvement in preventing the game balls that have entered the game area 4 from returning to the guide path (guide area) 29 compared to the conventional pachinko game machine. However, as shown below, the ball return prevention mechanism 5 is prevented from getting caught with the game ball, thereby further improving the return prevention. Therefore, with reference to FIG. 13, prevention of catching between the ball return prevention mechanism 5 and game balls will be explained. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which the game ball B that has returned from the game area 4 to the boundary area 700 collides with the ball return prevention member 51.

As shown in FIG. 13, the game ball B returns from the game area 4 to the boundary area 700 and is in contact with the on-off valve 54b of the ball return prevention member 51 and the main body case 52. Specifically, the game ball B is in contact with the protruding portion 541c of the on-off valve 54b in the closed state, and is also in contact with the upper end portion (stopper wall 52c) of the main body case 52. In FIG. 13, the point of contact between the game ball B and the protrusion 541c of the on-off valve 54b is indicated by P7, the point of contact with the upper end of the main body case 52 is indicated by P8, and the leftmost point of the game ball B is indicated by P9. There is.

In such a state, the contact point P7 between the game ball B and the protrusion 541c of the on-off valve 54b is located below the leftmost point P9 of the game ball B in the vertical direction. In addition, the contact point P8 between the game ball B and the upper end of the main body case 52 is located to the left of the lowest point P6 of the game ball B in the horizontal direction, and is located to the left of the lowest point P6 of the game ball B in the vertical direction. is also located above. That is, the contact point P8 is located at the upper left with respect to the lowest point P6. The distance (first distance) H5 from the contact point P7 to the contact point P8 is shorter than the distance (second distance) H6 from the leftmost point P9 to the lowest point P6 of the game ball B. Therefore, the game ball B has an opening on the upper surface side facing the boundary area 700 in the main body case 52 (see FIG. 7), and a portion on the proximal end side of the protruding portion 541c in the second side surface portion 541b of the on-off valve 54b. It is so designed that it cannot enter the gap area SP between . Moreover, as shown by the dotted line arrow in FIG. By applying a force diagonally upward to the right, it bounces back to the game area 4. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game ball B from entering the gap region SP and being caught between the on-off valve 54b of the ball return prevention mechanism 5 and the main body case 52. Therefore, the return prevention of the ball return prevention mechanism 5 due to such a catch of the game ball B is not impaired. Therefore, since the return prevention of the ball return prevention mechanism 5 can be stably ensured, it is possible to further improve the prevention of the game balls that have entered the game area 4 from returning to the guide path (guide area) 29.

According to the pachinko machine 1 according to the first embodiment configured in this way, the following effects can be achieved.

The ball return prevention mechanism 5 not only prevents a game ball that has entered the gaming area 4 from returning when the ball return prevention member 51 is in the closed state, but also prevents the ball return prevention member 51 from being displaced from the closed state to the open state. Even during the game, the game balls that have entered the game area 4 can be prevented from returning to the guide path 29. Therefore, it is possible to improve prevention of return of the game ball that has entered the game area 4 to the guide path (guide area) 29.

The pachinko machine 1 according to the first embodiment also has a guide path (guidance area) 29 which is an area between the outer rail 27 and the inner rail 28 and which guides the launched game balls to the game area 4. , a ball return prevention mechanism 5 that prevents the game ball from returning from the game area 4 to the guide path 29, and the ball return prevention mechanism 5 has a closed state (first state) and an open state (second state). , an on-off valve (displacement member) 54b that can be displaced, and a main body case (holding member) 52 that can hold the on-off valve 54b. (side surface portion) 541b and a tip portion on the tip side of the second side portion 541b, and assuming that the distance from the tip portion to the outer rail 27 is a specific distance, in the closed state, the specific distance is longer than that in the open state. In the open state, the specific distance is longer than in the closed state, and the main body case 52 has a stopper wall (contacting part) 52c that comes into contact with the second side surface part 541b of the on-off valve 54b in the open state. and when the game ball is in contact with the main body case (holding member) 52 (specifically, the stopper wall 52c of the main body case 52) and the second side surface portion 541b (the protruding portion 541c of the main body case 52) in the closed state. The distance from the contact point P8 between the ball and the main body case 52 (stopper wall 52c) to the contact point P7 between the game ball and the second side surface portion 541b (the protruding portion 541c) is defined as a first distance H5, and the distance from the lowest point P6 of the game ball to the highest point Assuming that the distance to the left point P9 is a second distance H6, the first distance H5 is characterized in that it is shorter than the second distance H6. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the prevention of the game balls that have entered the game area 4 from returning to the guide path (guide area) 29.

4. Summary of the first embodiment As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment, the machine model image 323 is displayed in the second part that displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322. This is longer than the third part where the warning image 324 is displayed and the fourth part where the attention-calling image 324 is displayed, and also takes the longest time in the demonstration performance, so that the player can imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 using the demonstration performance. In addition, by displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during the demonstration performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 has a model display section 15 on the front frame 10 so that the model name can be seen by the player at all times. Since the player can recognize the model name without spending a long time on the machine name, the longest time can be spent on the second part, which displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322. The demonstration performance can help the player imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1, and the demonstration performance can improve the player's interest in the game machine.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 has 99 game balls, which is the number of game balls that can be fired per unit time (60 seconds), in the time required to view one set of performances in the demo performance (approximately 100 seconds). is longer than the shortest time (60 seconds) that elapses until 250 game balls are fired, which is the number of game balls that can be rented per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 151.5 seconds), one set of demonstration productions can be viewed in an appropriate amount of time that is not excessively short or long, increasing the players' interest in the demonstration productions. In addition, multiple pieces of information can be displayed with appropriate time allocation.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a pachinko machine 1 according to a second embodiment, which is a partially modified version of the first embodiment, will be described. The pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment is configured such that the performance content displayed in the demonstration performance is different from that of the first embodiment. Since the other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

1. Details of the demonstration effect executed on the gaming machine The details of the demonstration effect displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment will be explained.

<Progress of the production content in the demonstration production>
In the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment, the demo performance is displayed in the order of the first part, second part, third part, fourth part, and fifth part, and then looped back to the first part. The structure is such that one set of performances from the first part to the fifth part is executed for about 100 seconds. In other words, in the demonstration production, the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed, the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed, the fourth part is displayed after the third part is displayed, and the fourth part is displayed after the third part is displayed. By displaying the 5th part after the 5th part is displayed, one set of effects ends, and after the 5th part ends, the display of the 1st part starts, so that they are displayed cyclically. There is.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the content of the performance in each part displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 when the demo performance is executed in the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment. 14(B) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the first part of the demonstration production. FIG. 14(C) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the second part of the demonstration production. FIG. 14(D) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance, and FIG. 15(E) is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fifth part of the demonstration performance. It is a diagram. Note that, as shown in FIGS. 14(B) to 14(E), the manufacturer logo image 321, character image 322, model image 323, and attention image 324 are substantially the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed explanation will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 14(A), in the first part of the demonstration performance of the second embodiment, a manufacturer logo image 321, a character image 322, a model image 323, and a warning image 324 are displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. A performance image 325 is displayed as a predetermined image different from any of the above. The first part is a part that lasts for approximately 5 seconds, and is a part that continues for a period from the start of the demonstration performance until the model image 323 displayed in the second part is displayed. It has become. Furthermore, the performance image 325 displayed in the first part is an image having performance content specific to the pachinko machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 14B, in the second part of the demonstration performance of the second embodiment, a model image 323 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. The second part continues for approximately 10 seconds.

As shown in FIG. 14C, in the third part of the demonstration performance of the second embodiment, a character image 322 is displayed approximately at the center of the liquid crystal display 32. The third part is a part that continues for approximately 75 seconds, in which characters including character images 322 are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and characters introducing the displayed characters are also displayed. In addition, in the third part, the characters of Pachinko machine 1 are displayed together with text introducing the specifications and features of the gameplay, and this is the part that introduces the features of Pachinko machine 1 to players. There is. In the third part, the model image 323 and the attention-calling image 324 are not displayed.

As shown in FIG. 14(D), in the fourth part of the demonstration performance of the second embodiment, a manufacturer logo image 321 is displayed approximately in the center of the liquid crystal display 32. The fourth part continues for approximately 5 seconds.

As shown in FIG. 14E, in the fifth part of the demonstration performance of the second embodiment, an attention-calling image 324 is displayed approximately at the center of the liquid crystal display 32. The fifth part continues for approximately 5 seconds.

<Details of the passage of time in the demonstration production>
As mentioned above, in the second embodiment, the demonstration performance includes a first part of about 5 seconds, a second part of about 10 seconds, a third part of about 75 seconds, and a fourth part of about 5 seconds. The performance consists of a total of about 100 seconds, including a fifth part of about 5 seconds. In other words, regarding the time of each part in the demo performance, the fourth part and the fifth part are shorter than the second part, the second part is shorter than the third part, and the third part is shorter than the first part. The duration is longer than the total of the first part, the second part, the fourth part, and the fifth part.

Because of this configuration, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a third part that displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322, and a second part that displays the model image 323. To make it easier for a player to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 using the demo performance by having a longer time than the fifth part in which the parts and the attention-calling image 324 are displayed and also taking the longest time in the demo performance. In addition, by displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during the demonstration performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a performance that is unique to the pachinko machine 1 from the start of the demonstration performance to the start of the second part in which the model image 323 is displayed. By having the first part that displays the image 325, there is a difference between the content of the performance displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 before the demonstration performance starts and the performance image 325 displayed after the demonstration performance starts. The player does not feel any discomfort when playing, and it is possible to prevent the player from losing interest in the performance.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a model display section 15 on the front frame 10 so that the player can always see the model name. This allows players to recognize the model name without spending a long time on the second part that is displayed. By being able to split the pachinko machine, it is possible to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 through the demonstration performance, and it is possible to improve the player's interest in the game machine through the demonstration performance.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment, the time required to view one set of performances in the demonstration performance (approximately 100 seconds) is limited to the number of game balls that can be fired per unit time (60 seconds). 250 game balls are fired, which is longer than the shortest time (60 seconds) that elapses before a certain 99 game balls are fired, and is the number of game balls that can be rented per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 151.5 seconds) that elapses until It is possible to increase a person's interest in the demonstration performance, and also to display a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation.

The time period of the fifth part in which the attention-calling image 324 is displayed (from about 95 seconds after the start of the demonstration production to about 100 seconds) is the first part in the second embodiment. The second part of the time period in which the model image 323 is displayed (from about 5 seconds to about 15 seconds after the demonstration performance starts) constitutes a time period, and the time period of the second part in which the model image 323 is displayed is the time period in which the model image 323 is displayed. The third part of the time period in which the character image 322 is displayed and the model image 323 and the alert image 324 are not displayed (approximately 15 seconds after the start of the demonstration production) 90 seconds) constitutes the third time period in the second embodiment.

2. Summary of the second embodiment As described above, in the gaming machine that executes the game using the gaming value of the second embodiment,
a model display section that displays the model name;
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The model display section is arranged on the front door,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance is played in a loop,
The demo production includes a first part, a second part, a third part, a fourth part, and a fifth part,
the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed;
the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed;
The fourth part is displayed after the third part is displayed,
The fifth part is displayed after the fourth part is displayed,
In the first part, a predetermined image is displayed,
In the second part, a name image indicating the model name is displayed,
In the third part, a character image is displayed, and the name image is not displayed,
In the fourth part, an image showing the manufacturer name of the gaming machine is displayed,
In the fifth part, an image that calls attention to the game is displayed,
In the first part and the fourth part, the character image and the name image are not displayed,
Regarding the time of each part in the demo production,
The fourth part and the fifth part are shorter than the second part,
the second part is shorter than the third part;
The third part is longer than the sum of the first part, the second part, the fourth part, and the fifth part,
The demonstration performance is longer than the shortest time until the first number of game values are fired, and shorter than the shortest time until the second number of game values are fired,
The first number is the number of game values that can be fired per unit time,
The second number is the number of gaming values that can be lent out per unit amount of money.

With this configuration, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a third part that displays the specifications and features of the pachinko machine 1 together with the character image 322, a second part that displays the model image 323, and a warning image. 324 is displayed, and also takes the longest time in the demonstration performance, it is possible to use the demonstration performance to make it easier for players to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1, and also to make the demo performance easier to imagine. By displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a performance that is unique to the pachinko machine 1 from the start of the demonstration performance to the start of the second part in which the model image 323 is displayed. By having the first part that displays the image 325, there is a difference between the content of the performance displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 before the demonstration performance starts and the performance image 325 displayed after the demonstration performance starts. The player does not feel any discomfort when playing, and it is possible to prevent the player from losing interest in the performance.

In addition, the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment has a model display section 15 on the front frame 10 so that the player can always see the model name. This allows players to recognize the model name without spending a long time on the second part that is displayed. By being able to split the pachinko machine, it is possible to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 through the demonstration performance, and it is possible to improve the player's interest in the game machine through the demonstration performance.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1 of the second embodiment, the time required to view one set of performances in the demonstration performance (approximately 100 seconds) is limited to the number of game balls that can be fired per unit time (60 seconds). 250 game balls are fired, which is longer than the shortest time (60 seconds) that elapses before a certain 99 game balls are fired, and is the number of game balls that can be rented per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 151.5 seconds) that elapses until It is possible to increase a person's interest in the demonstration performance, and also to display a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation.

The time period of the fifth part in which the attention image 324 is displayed (approximately 95 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to approximately 100 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect) is the time period of the second part when the attention image 324 is displayed. The time period of the second part that constitutes the first time period in the embodiment and in which the model image 323 is displayed (approximately 5 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to approximately 15 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect) The time when the character image 322 is displayed and the model image 323 and the alert image 324 are not displayed constitutes the second time period in the second embodiment, and the third part time period (when the demonstration effect is started) constitutes the second time period in the second embodiment. The period from approximately 15 seconds after the start to approximately 90 seconds after the start of the demonstration performance constitutes the third time period in the second embodiment.

[Third embodiment]
Next, a gaming machine according to a third embodiment, which is a partially modified version of the first and second embodiments, will be described. The gaming machine of the third embodiment is comprised of a slot machine called a so-called drum-type gaming machine. Since the other configurations are the same as those in the first and second embodiments, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as in the first and second embodiments, and the description thereof will be omitted.

1. Outline of the configuration of the gaming machine FIG. 15 is a front view showing the external configuration of the slot machine 1000 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment is a so-called reel-type gaming machine, and is a type of gaming machine that plays games using medals as gaming media.

In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, a reel unit consisting of left reel R1 to right reel R3 as a plurality of reels is housed in a box-shaped case consisting of a case BX, a front upper door UD, and a front lower door DD. It is being Furthermore, a hopper unit serving as a medal payout device is housed below the reel unit within the housing. Further, inside the casing of the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, a control board is also housed which is equipped with a CPU, a ROM (an example of an information storage medium), a RAM, etc., and which controls the operation of the slot machine 1000.

The left reel R1 to the right reel R3 shown in FIG. 15 each have their outer peripheral surfaces divided into 20 areas (hereinafter, each area is referred to as a "piece") at regular intervals, and each piece has multiple types of symbols. Either is arranged.

The upper front door UD and the lower front door DD are provided so as to be able to be opened and closed individually. The upper front door UD is provided with a display device 330 as an effect display means for performing an effect composed of various videos and images to assist the game or to enliven the game. Further, in the display device 330, a specific region 330b facing the left reel R1 to right reel R3 of the display region 330a for displaying an image is constituted by a transmissive liquid crystal display. It is configured so that the rotating state and stopping state of the reel R1 to right reel R3 can be observed. When the left reel R1 to right reel R3 are in a stopped state, among the multiple types of symbols arranged at regular intervals on the outer circumferential surface of each of the left reel R1 to right reel R3, three consecutively arranged on the outer circumferential surface are displayed. The symbols (upper row symbols, middle row symbols, and lower row symbols) can be observed through the display device 330 from the front of the slot machine 1000.

Furthermore, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, each reel is provided with an upper row, a middle row, and a lower row as display positions for observing the symbols through the display device 330. Regarding the lines, an effective line L is set. In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, the number of medals required for one game, the so-called prescribed number of inputs, is set to three in any gaming state, and the number of medals corresponding to the prescribed number of inputs is set to three. When the reel is inserted, the active line L formed by the middle row of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 is activated.

Then, the game result is determined by the symbol combinations that are stopped and displayed on the active line L (on the active line), and when the symbol combination on the active line L is a symbol combination that corresponds to a predetermined combination, Assuming that the winning combination has been won, medals are paid out from the hopper unit.

A game information display section DS is provided on the front upper door UD. The game information display section DS consists of LEDs, lamps, 7-segment displays, etc., and displays the number of medal credits, the number of medals paid out or acquired in one game, and the total number of medals paid out or the number acquired in the bonus state. Various game information is displayed, such as information on the winning combination in the current game, and information suggesting how to press the stop button B1, stop button B2, and stop button B3 related to the payout of medals.

The game information display section DS includes a main control display device 500 consisting of a 7-segment display, and when a specified number of medals are inserted and the start lever SL is operated, a winning result is announced in the current game. A notification display is displayed which is a display corresponding to a winning combination command which is a control signal created based on winning information which is information on the winning combination, and when the left reel R1 to right reel R3 stop after the notification display is displayed, When the notification display ends, the number of medals paid out or the number of medals acquired is displayed. In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, a notification display is executed in which each segment of the main control display device 500 lights up and goes out in a display mode according to the winning combination command.

Further, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, a plurality of sound devices 340 for performing effects using sound are provided on the lower front door DD. The audio device 340 outputs various sounds for assisting the game and enlivening the game.

The lower front door DD serving as the front door is provided with various operating means. The operation means include a max bet button MB for inserting a prescribed number of medals, and a game by rotating the left reel R1 to right reel R3. The start lever SL serves as a game start operation means for causing the player to perform a start operation that is a trigger for starting the game, and the stop lever serves as a trigger for stopping each of the left reel R1 to right reel R3 that are rotationally driven by a stepping motor. Also provided are stop buttons B1 to B3 as stop operation means for causing the player to perform operations, and a settlement button BS for settling credited medals.

In addition, a medal payout port MO and a medal tray MP are provided at the bottom of the lower front door DD, and the number of medals depending on the result of the game is paid out from the medal payout port MO to the medal tray MP. ing. In addition, if the payment button BS is pressed while the credited medals are stored in the gaming machine, the number of credits (corresponding to the number of credited medals) will be sent from the hopper unit as the payment button BS is pressed. A settlement process for paying out the number of medals is executed, and the medals are paid out from the medal payout port MO to the medal receiving tray MP.

Further, the lower front door DD is provided with a model display section 1000a that displays the model name of the slot machine 1000, so that when the slot machine 1000 is viewed from the front, the player can easily see the model name of the slot machine 1000. It is configured to be visible.

In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, when the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 are stopped and medals can be inserted, the prescribed number of medals (3) are inserted from the medal slot MI or When the max bet button MB is operated and placed in a state where medals are credited, a game start operation on the start lever SL is enabled. In the slot machine 1000, when the start lever SL is operated to start, an internal lottery is executed to determine the validity of a winning combination, and rotation of the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 is started. Further, in the slot machine 1000, when the start lever SL is operated to start, control is executed based on the winning combination in the internal lottery (for example, a lottery to determine whether or not to start an advantageous section).

In the slot machine 1000, when the left reel R1 to right reel R3 are in a state of steady rotation at a predetermined speed (for example, about 80 rpm), the stop operation of the stop button B1 to stop button B3 corresponding to each reel is enabled. The rotation of the reels corresponding to the stop buttons B1 to B3 that were pressed until 190ms have passed since the time when the stop buttons B1 to B3 were pressed is stopped, and all of the left reel R1 to right reel R3 are stopped. The winning combination of the winning combination is determined based on the symbol combination that is stopped and displayed on the active line L while the symbol is stopped, and if the winning combination is won, the control corresponding to the won winning combination (for example, if a small winning combination is won) The payout of medals based on the payout set for the winning small role is executed.

Further, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, when the start lever SL is operated to start and the rotation of the left reel R1 to right reel R3 is started to start one game, the left reel R1 to right reel R3 It is configured to set a waiting time (approximately 4.1 seconds), generally referred to as a wait (or wait time), based on the start of rotation. In the slot machine 1000, if the start lever SL is operated to start and a signal (start signal) indicating the start of the next game is received within a period from the setting of the waiting time to the elapse of the waiting time, the waiting time has elapsed. After that, the left reel R1 to right reel R3 start rotating. Because of this configuration, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, a minimum playing time (approximately 4.1 seconds) elapses as a constant time from the start of one game to the start of the next game. After that, the game is started.

2. Details of Demonstration Performance Executed on Gaming Machine Next, details of the demonstration performance displayed on the display device 330 of the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment will be explained. In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, if the left reel R1 to the right reel R3 stop and no medals are inserted for a predetermined period of time (for example, one minute), the game is not executed. The display device 330 is configured to display a demonstration effect indicating that there is no such thing. The demonstration performance is played in a loop until medals are inserted from the medal slot MI or the max bet button MB is operated and credited medals are set to the inserted state.

<Progress of the production content in the demonstration production>
In the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, the demo production is configured to display the first part, the second part, the third part, and the fourth part in this order, and then loop back to the first part. One set of performances from the first part to the fourth part is executed for approximately 100 seconds. In other words, in the demonstration performance, the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed, the third part is displayed after the second part, and the fourth part is displayed after the third part, so that The first part is displayed cyclically after one set of effects ends and the fourth part ends.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the content of the performance in each part displayed on the display device 330 when the demo performance is executed in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, and FIG. 16(B) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the first part of the demonstration production. FIG. 16(C) is a diagram showing the content of the production in the second part of the demonstration production. FIG. 16(D), which is a diagram showing the content of the performance, is a diagram showing the content of the performance in the fourth part of the demonstration performance. Note that, as shown in FIGS. 16(B) to 16(D), the manufacturer logo image 321, character image 322, and model image 323 are substantially the same as those in the first and second embodiments. Therefore, detailed explanation will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 16(A), in the first part of the demonstration performance of the third embodiment, by calling the player's attention to continuing the game, the player is prevented from becoming excessively absorbed in the game, so-called A warning image 326 is displayed approximately in the center of the display device 330 as an image to prevent the player from becoming addicted to the game or becoming addicted to the game. The first part lasts approximately 5 seconds. Further, as shown in FIG. 16(A), the first part is configured such that the character image 322 and the model image 323 are not displayed.

The warning image 326 consists of an image with the text "Be careful not to get addicted to pachislot - Pachislot is a game that can be enjoyed in moderation" written in two lines, with a red background and white text displayed at the top. , the background color is white and red text is displayed at the bottom. In addition, when the size of the LCD monitor of the display device 330 is D inches, the height H of the attention image 326 is composed of H≧{10×(2D-5)}÷9 [mm], and the width W is , W=H÷10×64.12 [mm].

Note that the slot machine 1000 is configured to display one predetermined type of attention-calling image 326 on the display device 330. In addition, the slot machine 1000 displays the alert image 326 clearly so that the text does not appear coarse or crushed due to the coarse resolution, making it difficult for the player to identify the alert image 326. It is pre-configured to Furthermore, in the slot machine 1000, the color of the attention image 326 is configured in advance using a color that allows the characters and the background to be clearly distinguished as described above, and the background color of the upper row and the color of the lower row of characters are the same first color. In addition, the upper text color and the lower background background color are configured to be the same second color. The first color and the second color are not limited to red and white, but may be composed of green and white, and are not limited to opaque colors, but may be composed of colors that allow the background image to pass through. Good too.

As shown in FIG. 16(B), in the second part of the demonstration performance of the third embodiment, a manufacturer logo image 321 of the slot machine 1000 is displayed approximately in the center of the display device 330. The second part lasts approximately 5 seconds. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16(B), the second part is configured such that the character image 322 and the model image 323 are not displayed.

As shown in FIG. 16C, in the third part of the demonstration performance of the third embodiment, a character image 322 unique to the slot machine 1000 is displayed approximately in the center of the display device 330. The third part is a part that continues for approximately 60 seconds, in which a character including a character image 322 is displayed on the display device 330, and characters introducing the displayed character are also displayed. In addition, in the third part, the character of the slot machine 1000 is displayed, along with text introducing the specifications and features of the gameplay, and this is the part that introduces the features of the slot machine 1000 to the player. There is. In the third part, the model image 323 and the attention-calling image 326 are not displayed.

As shown in FIG. 16(D), in the fourth part of the demonstration performance of the third embodiment, a model image 323 is displayed approximately in the center of the display device 330. The fourth part continues for about 20 seconds.

<Details of the passage of time in the demonstration performance>
As described above, in the third embodiment, the demonstration performance includes a first part of about 5 seconds, a second part of about 5 seconds, a third part of about 60 seconds, and a fourth part of about 20 seconds. It consists of a total of about 90 seconds of performance. In other words, regarding the time of each part in the demonstration performance, the first part and the second part are shorter than the fourth part, the fourth part is shorter than the third part, and the third part is shorter than the first part. The duration is longer than the total of the first part, the second part, and the fourth part.

Because of this configuration, the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment has a third part that displays the specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 together with the character image 322, and a fourth part that displays the model image 323. To make it easier for a player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000 using a demo performance by having a longer time than the first part in which the parts and the attention-calling image 326 are displayed, and by allocating the longest time to the demo performance. In addition, by displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during the demonstration performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

Further, as described above, the slot machine 1000 is provided with a model display section 1000a that displays the model name of the slot machine 1000 on the lower front door DD, which is attached so as to be openable and closable. The configuration is such that the player can easily visually recognize the model name of the slot machine 1000 when playing the slot machine 1000.

Because of this configuration, the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment has a model display section 1000a on the lower front door DD so that the player can always see the model name. The specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 are displayed together with the character image 322 so that the player can recognize the model name without spending a long time on the fourth part in which the machine name of the slot machine 1000 is displayed using the model image 323. By allowing the longest time to be spent on the third part, it is possible to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000 through the demonstration performance, and it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine through the demonstration performance. .

Furthermore, as described above, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, the minimum playing time (approximately 4.1 seconds) has elapsed as a constant time from the start of one game to the start of the next game. The game is configured to start from the beginning. Generally, a gaming hall is configured so that 50 medals (rental balls) can be lent out per unit amount of money (for example, 1000 yen). The slot machine 1000 is configured to require at least about 65.6 seconds to play a game with 50 medals inserted. As mentioned above, in the demonstration production, it takes about 90 seconds to execute one set of the first part to the fourth part.

In other words, in the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment, the time required to view one set of performances in the demo performance (approximately 90 seconds) is the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen). 100 medals, which is longer than the shortest time (approximately 65.6 seconds) that elapses until 50 medals are inserted, and is twice the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen). Because the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 131.2 seconds) that elapses before medals are inserted, one set of demonstration performances must be viewed in an appropriate amount of time that is not excessively short or long. This makes it possible to increase the player's interest in the demonstration performance, and also to display a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation.

The time period of the first part in which the attention-calling image 326 is displayed (from the time when the demonstration performance is started until approximately 5 seconds have elapsed) constitutes the first time period in the third embodiment, The time period of the fourth part in which the model image 323 is displayed (approximately 70 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to approximately 90 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect) is the same as that in the third embodiment. The third part of the time period, which constitutes the second time period, in which the character image 322 is displayed and the model image 323 and the alert image 326 are not displayed (approximately 10 seconds after the start of the demonstration performance - the demo performance) 70 seconds after the start) constitutes the third time period in the third embodiment.

<Summary of demonstration effects in the gaming machine of the third embodiment>
As mentioned above, in the gaming machine that executes the game using the gaming value of the third embodiment,
a model display section that displays the model name;
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The model display section is arranged on the front door,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance is played in a loop,
The demo production includes a first part, a second part, a third part, and a fourth part,
the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed;
the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed;
The fourth part is displayed after the third part is displayed,
In the first part, an image that calls attention to the game is displayed,
In the second part, an image indicating the manufacturer name of the gaming machine is displayed,
In the third part, a character image is displayed, and a name image indicating the model name is not displayed.
In the fourth part, the name image is displayed,
In the first part, the second part, and the fourth part, the character image is not displayed;
Regarding the time of each part in the demo production,
The first part and the second part are shorter than the fourth part,
the fourth part is shorter than the third part;
The third part is longer than the sum of the first part, the second part, and the fourth part,
The demonstration performance is longer than the shortest time until a first number of gaming values are inputted, and shorter than the shortest time until a second number of gaming values are inputted,
The first number of coins is the number of gaming value coins that can be lent per unit amount,
The second number of sheets is twice the first number of sheets.

With this configuration, the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment has a third part that displays the specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 together with the character image 322, a fourth part that displays the model image 323, and a warning image. 326 is displayed, and also takes the longest time in the demonstration presentation, it is possible to use the demonstration presentation to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000, and the demo presentation By displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, the slot machine 1000 has a model display section 1000a on the lower front door DD so that the model name can be seen by the player at all times. Since the player can recognize the model name without spending a long time on the part, the longest time can be spent on the third part, which displays the specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 together with the character image 322. The demo performance can make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000, and the demo performance can improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, the slot machine 1000 has 50 medals inserted, which is the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen), so that the time required to view one set of productions (about 90 seconds) in the demo production. 100 medals will be inserted, which is longer than the shortest time (approximately 65.6 seconds) that will elapse before the transaction is completed, and is twice the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen). Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 131.2 seconds) that elapses until Not only can the interest in the demonstration performance be improved, but also a plurality of pieces of information can be displayed with appropriate time allocation.

[Other embodiments]
Note that in the third embodiment, the slot machine 1000 is configured to have a second part that displays the manufacturer logo image 321 in the demonstration performance, but the slot machine 1000 is not limited to this. In the demonstration production, the slot machine 1000 has a first part that displays an attention-calling image 326 and continues for about 5 seconds, a second part that displays a character image 322 and continues for about 48 seconds, and a machine model image. 323 and continues for about 4 seconds, and the first part, the second part, and the third part are displayed in this order, and then the first part is played back in a loop. It may be.

When configured in this way, the time required to view one set of demonstration performances (approximately 57 seconds) is 50 medals, which is the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen). The time period may be shorter than the shortest time (approximately 65.6 seconds) that elapses until the input is made.

In addition, in this case, the attention image 326 displayed in the first part that lasts about 5 seconds starts displaying by fading in for about 1 second, and then fades in for about 3 seconds. The display may be configured such that the display is maintained in a completed state over a period of time, and the display is ended by fading out over about 1 second. In other words, the attention image 326 may be configured such that the time the display mode is maintained is longer than the time the display mode is changed.

In other words, in a gaming machine that executes a game using gaming value,
a model display section that displays the model name;
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The model display section is arranged on the front door,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance is played in a loop,
The demo production includes a first part, a second part, and a third part,
the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed;
the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed;
In the first part, an attention image that calls attention to the game is displayed,
In the second part, a character image is displayed, and a name image indicating the model name is not displayed,
In the third part, the name image is displayed,
The attention image has a display mode maintained for a longer period of time than a display mode is changed for a longer period of time,
Regarding the time of each part in the demo production,
The second part is longer than the sum of the first part and the third part,
The demo performance is shorter than the shortest time until the first number of game values are input,
The first number of coins may be configured to be the number of gaming value coins that can be lent per unit amount of money.

With this configuration, the slot machine 1000 of the third embodiment has a second part that displays the specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 together with the character image 322, a third part that displays the model image 323, and a warning image. 326 is displayed, and also takes the longest time in the demonstration presentation, it is possible to use the demonstration presentation to make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000, and the demo presentation By displaying a plurality of pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation during performance, it is possible to improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, the slot machine 1000 has a model display section 1000a on the lower front door DD so that the model name can be seen by the player at all times. Since the player can recognize the model name without spending a long time on the part, the longest time can be spent on the third part, which displays the specifications and features of the slot machine 1000 together with the character image 322. The demo performance can make it easier for the player to imagine the specifications of the slot machine 1000, and the demo performance can improve the player's interest in the gaming machine.

In addition, slot machine 1000 has 50 medals inserted, which is the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen), so that the time required to view one set of productions (about 57 seconds) in the demo production. Since the time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 65.6 seconds) that elapses until the demonstration is completed, one set of demonstration effects can be viewed and completed quickly, and the player's interest in the demonstration effects can be improved. In addition to being able to display multiple pieces of information in an appropriate time allocation.

In this case, the time period of the first part in which the attention-calling image 326 is displayed (from the time when the demonstration performance is started until approximately 5 seconds have elapsed) constitutes the first time period, The time period of the third part in which the model image 323 is displayed (from approximately 53 seconds after the demonstration performance starts to approximately 57 seconds after the demonstration performance starts) is the second time period. , and the second part time period in which the character image 322 is displayed and the model image 323 and the alert image 326 are not displayed (approximately 5 seconds after the start of the demonstration effect to the time after the start of the demonstration effect) 2) constitutes the third time period.

Furthermore, in the case of such a configuration, the slot machine 1000 does not display an adjustable image indicating that the volume and light intensity of the slot machine 1000 can be adjusted in the first part, and does not display the adjustable image in the second and third parts. The adjustable image may be displayed in the part.

Furthermore, in this case, the slot machine 1000 is configured such that the third part in which the machine type image 323 is displayed takes longer than the second part in which the character image 322 is displayed. You can leave it there. Specifically, in the demonstration production, the slot machine 1000 has a first part that displays an attention-calling image 326 and continues for about 5 seconds, and a second part that displays a character image 322 and continues for about 25 seconds. and a third part that displays the model image 323 and continues for about 42 seconds, and the loop returns to the first part after the first part, second part, and third part are displayed in this order. By being configured to be played back, one set of effects from the first part to the third part may be executed for approximately 72 seconds.

In other words, in a gaming machine that executes a game using gaming value,
a model display section that displays the model name;
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The model display section is arranged on the front door,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance is played in a loop,
The demo production includes a first part, a second part, and a third part,
the second part is displayed after the first part is displayed;
the third part is displayed after the second part is displayed;
In the first part, an image that calls attention to the game is displayed,
In the second part, a character image is displayed, and a name image indicating the model name is not displayed,
In the third part, the name image is displayed,
Regarding the time of each part in the demo production,
the first part is shorter than the second part;
the second part is shorter than the third part;
The third part is longer than the sum of the first part and the second part,
The demonstration performance is longer than the shortest time until a first number of gaming values are inputted, and shorter than the shortest time until a second number of gaming values are inputted,
The first number of coins is the number of gaming value coins that can be lent per unit amount,
The second number of sheets may be twice the first number of sheets.

Because of this configuration, the slot machine 1000 has a model display section 1000a on the lower front door DD so that the model name can be seen by the player at all times, and the model name of the slot machine 1000 is displayed on the model image in the demonstration performance. By spending a long time on the third part displayed by 323, the model name of the slot machine 1000 can be announced even in the demonstration performance, and players who want to play with the model of the slot machine 1000 can easily recognize it. I can do it.

In addition, the slot machine 1000 has 50 medals inserted, which is the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen), so that the time required to view one set of productions (about 90 seconds) in the demo production. 100 medals will be inserted, which is longer than the shortest time (approximately 65.6 seconds) that will elapse before the transaction is completed, and is twice the number of medals that can be lent per unit amount (1000 yen). Since this time is shorter than the shortest time (approximately 131.2 seconds) that elapses until Not only can the interest in the demonstration performance be increased, but also a plurality of pieces of information can be displayed with appropriate time allocation.

Furthermore, in the gaming machines of the first to third embodiments, the demo performance is configured such that an adjustable image indicating that the volume and light intensity of the gaming machine can be adjusted is not displayed; however, the present invention is not limited to this. , the adjustable image may be displayed in at least one of a plurality of parts constituting the demonstration performance.

Further, in the first to third embodiments, the gaming machine is configured to include a model display section in front when viewed from the front, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine may be configured to include a model display section on the side surface of the gaming machine. Furthermore, the gaming machine may be configured without a model display section.

1 Pachinko machine (gaming machine)
32 Liquid crystal display (effect display means)
322 Character image 323 Model image (name image)
324 Attention image 330 Display device (effect display means)
1000 slot machine (gaming machine)

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine that executes a game using gaming value,
A performance display means for displaying a performance,
The performance display means is capable of displaying a demonstration performance,
The demo performance includes a first time period, a second time period, and a third time period,
In the first time period, an attention-calling image is displayed to call attention to the game,
In the second time period, a name image indicating the model name is displayed,
In the third time period, the character image is displayed, and the name image and the attention image are not displayed,
The first time period is shorter than the second time period,
The second time period is shorter than the third time period,
The third time period is longer than the sum of the first time period and the second time period,
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images