JP2023168501A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of preferably improving an attention degree to a game.SOLUTION: An operation hole is provided on a game board unit 80Y. When a jackpot result occurs by lottery based on entry to the operation hole, a mode shifts to an opening/closing execution mode. In the opening/closing execution mode, a state of a variable winning device 82Y shifts from a closed state to an open state, and after shift to the open state, when the number of game balls entered to a big winning hole 82a reaches a preset upper limit number, the state of the variable winning device 82Y shifts to the closed state in a round game, the round game being repeated multi times. When the number of winnings exceeds an upper limit number in each round, a cumulative number thereof is stored. The stored cumulative number is reported to a player by switching a display mode of a display device 300Y provided on the variable winning device 82Y.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 50

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

2. Description of the Related Art Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that variably displays a pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, when a prize is won at an operating port provided in a gaming area, a lottery is held to determine whether or not a special gaming state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, will occur, and a lottery is held to determine whether or not a special gaming state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, will occur. Fluctuation display starts. When this lottery is won, the symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-074175

In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the attention level to the games.

The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances exemplified above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can suitably improve the degree of attention to a game.

The present invention
A starting ball entry section provided in the gaming area;
information acquisition means for acquiring special information based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information;
Shifting the gaming state to a special gaming state more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state based on the result of the determination by the transition determining means being a transition compatible result that corresponds to the predetermined transition information. a game state transition means for causing the
a variable ball entry section that can be switched between an acceptance state in which a game ball can enter and a non-acceptance state in which a game ball cannot enter;
a benefit granting means for granting a benefit to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
a first switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state when in the special gaming state, based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition;
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number, or the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section is the specified number after switching to the receiving state. a second switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period of time has elapsed without reaching .
In the special game state, the round game is set such that after the first switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the accepting state, the second switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the non-accepting state. is configured to be executed multiple times with an interval in between,
Cumulative number storage means for storing the cumulative number when a ball enters exceeding the specified number in the round game in the special game state;
The present invention is characterized by comprising a notification means for notifying the cumulative number stored in the cumulative number storage means so that the player can identify the cumulative number when the special game state is entered.

According to the present invention, the degree of attention to the game can be suitably improved.

It is a front view showing a pachinko machine in a first embodiment. It is a perspective view of a pachinko machine seen from the front. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the main configuration of a pachinko machine developed. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the main configuration of a pachinko machine developed. It is a front view showing the composition of an inner frame. It is a front view showing the structure of a game board unit. It is a perspective view of the game board unit seen from the rear. FIG. 3 is a rear view showing the configuration of the inner frame. It is a rear view of the pachinko machine. It is a front view showing a back pack unit. (a) A front view of the first movable performance device, (b) a partial sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 11(a). FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an electrical connection structure. It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the first movable performance and the second movable performance device and the movement of the first movable performance device when a special performance is executed. It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko machine. It is a schematic diagram for explaining display contents on a display screen of a pattern display device. It is a schematic diagram for explaining display contents on a display screen of a pattern display device. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the contents of various counters used for winning/losing lottery and the like. (a) A schematic diagram showing a validity table for low probability mode, and (b) a schematic diagram showing a validity table for high probability mode. They are (a), (b) a schematic diagram showing a distribution table, and (c) a schematic diagram showing a relationship between winning types and support modes. It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between jackpot type and interval time. 3 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing by the MPU of the main control device. It is a flowchart showing the winning process for the operating port. It is a flowchart which shows information acquisition processing. 3 is a flowchart showing normal processing by the MPU of the main control device. It is a flowchart showing game time control processing. 3 is a flowchart showing data setting processing. It is a flowchart which shows fluctuation start processing. 7 is a flowchart showing a process for setting a variable display time. It is a flowchart showing gaming state transition processing. It is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration concerning a notification/performance control device and a display control device. It is a flow chart showing variable display control processing by the MPU of the notification/effect control device. It is a flowchart which shows processing for a fluctuation start. (a) A schematic diagram showing the relationship between variable display times and variable display modes, and (b) a schematic diagram showing an overview of each variable display mode. It is a flowchart which shows the process for special effects. It is a timing chart showing the flow of special effects. It is a front view of the game board unit in 2nd embodiment. FIG. 37 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 36 showing the variable prize winning device and its surroundings. (a) A schematic diagram showing a reserved ball storage area, and (b) a schematic diagram of a reserved number display unit attached to the variable prize winning device. (a) A flowchart showing the big winning opening opening/closing process by the MPU of the main control device, and (b) a flowchart showing the winning command output control process. It is a flowchart which shows opening-and-closing control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the confirmation process for a reservation notice. (a) Schematic diagram showing the reach determination table corresponding to the first normal gaming state, (b) Schematic diagram showing the reach determination table corresponding to the second normal gaming state, (c) Reach determination corresponding to the third normal gaming state It is a schematic diagram showing a table for use. It is a flowchart illustrating the over winning response processing by the MPU of the notification/performance control device. (a), (b) A schematic diagram showing a lottery table for a special performance, and (c) a schematic diagram showing distribution of pending changes when the special performance is confirmed. It is a flow chart showing special performance execution processing by the MPU of the notification/performance control device. It is a schematic diagram showing the flow of special performance. It is a schematic diagram showing the flow of special performance. It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the gaming state and the presence or absence of a change in reservation. It is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the number of over winnings and target pending information. (a) A partially enlarged view of a game board unit showing the variable prize winning device and its surroundings in a third embodiment, and (b) a schematic view of a display unit. It is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the number of over winnings and the display format. It is a flowchart showing processing for over-win notification by the MPU of the notification/performance control device. It is a timing chart showing the flow of switching the display format due to over-winning.

<First embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko game machine (hereinafter referred to as "pachinko machine"), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the main components of the pachinko machine 10 developed. In addition, in FIG. 2, the configuration within the gaming area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 forming an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine main section 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

As shown in FIG. 2, the outer frame 11 is constructed by connecting elongated frame members on four sides, and is formed into a rectangular frame shape as a whole. By attaching and fixing this outer frame 11 to the island equipment, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. It should be noted that the outer frame 11 is not an essential component of the pachinko machine 10, and the outer frame 11 may be provided in an island facility of a game hall or the like.

The gaming machine main section 12 is supported by the outer frame 11 in an openable/closable state. Specifically, an upper supporting metal fitting 17 is fixed to the connecting portion between the upper frame portion and the left frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a lower support fitting 17 is fixed to the connecting portion of the lower frame portion and the left frame portion of the outer frame 11. A side support fitting 18 is provided. These upper support metal fittings 17 and lower support metal fittings 18 constitute a support mechanism, and the support mechanism allows the main part 12 of the gaming machine to rotate on the left side when the pachinko machine 10 is viewed from the front with respect to the outer frame 11. , can be rotated forward of the pachinko machine 10 with the right side as the rotation tip side (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the gaming machine main section 12 includes an inner frame 13 as a base body, a front door frame 14 disposed in front of the inner frame 13, and a front door frame 14 disposed behind the inner frame 13. A back pack unit 15 is provided. It should be noted that an inner frame 13 of the main part 12 of the gaming machine is rotatably supported with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, when the gaming machine is viewed from the front, the inner frame 13 is rotatable forward with the left side being the rotation base end side and the right side being the rotation tip side.

A front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as the rotation base end and the right side as the rotation end side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. In addition, a back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated rearward with the left side as the rotation base end and the right side as the rotation tip side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. There is.

(Front door frame 14)
Next, the front door frame 14 will be explained. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a frame body 20 made of synthetic resin whose outer shape is almost the same as the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. There is. A generally elliptical window 21 is formed in the center of the frame 20 so that almost the entire area of the game area PE, which will be described later, can be viewed from the front. It is closed from the back side of the front door frame 14.

The glass unit 22 includes a plurality of transparent glass panels 23 and a glass holder that holds the glass panels 23. The glass holder is formed with a partition section that partitions the holding area of the glass panel 23 into front and rear sections, and both glass panels 23 face each other in the front and rear directions with the partition section in between. In other words, by securing a predetermined gap between both glass panels 23, interference between the glass panels 23 is avoided, and the gaming area PE is covered twice from the front side of the pachinko machine 10 by the glass panels 23. It is in a state.

Note that it is not always necessary to unitize both glass panels 23 using a glass holder, and each glass panel 23 may be individually attached to the frame 20. Furthermore, the number of glass panels is arbitrary, and may be one or three or more. However, in view of improving safety and crime prevention, it is preferable to employ a plurality of glass panels and to make these glass panels face each other in the front and back with a predetermined gap in between. Incidentally, it is also possible to use a transparent synthetic resin panel member in place of the glass panel.

Light emitting means such as various lamps are provided around the glass unit 22 (specifically, the window portion 21). For example, an annular illumination section 26 having a built-in light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the periphery of the window section 21 . The annular illumination section 26 lights up or blinks in response to changes in the gaming state, such as when a jackpot is won or when a predetermined reach is reached. Furthermore, an error display lamp section 27 is provided at the center of the annular illumination section 26 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, which lights up when a malfunction such as an error occurs. A prize ball lamp section 28 that lights up is provided. In addition, speaker sections 29 are provided at positions close to the left and right prize ball lamp sections 28, respectively, to output sound effects, BGM, etc. according to the gaming state (see FIG. 3). The speaker section 29 suppresses monotony of the game by switching BGM etc. according to the game state.

Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulge portion 31 and a lower bulge portion 32 that bulge toward the front are vertically arranged in parallel. An upper tray 33 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulge 31, and a lower tray 34 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulge 32 (see FIG. 2). The upper tray 33 has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later, and guiding them to a game ball firing mechanism described later while arranging them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 34 has a function of storing surplus game balls in the upper tray 33, and a function of storing surplus game balls in the upper tray 33 and storing game balls that have not reached the game area PE (see FIG. 3) among the game balls fired by the game ball firing mechanism. It functions as a receptacle for storing ejected game balls when the balls are returned to the player.

A game ball firing handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to protrude toward the front side. By operating the game ball firing handle 41, a game ball is fired from a game ball firing mechanism which will be described later. The firing speed of the game ball increases as the amount of operation (amount of rotation) of the game ball firing handle 41 increases, and when this amount of operation is adjusted by the player and reaches a predetermined amount, the game ball is fired. It will reach area PE. In addition, by adjusting this amount of operation by the player, it becomes possible to separately hit the game ball to the right route and the left route, which will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 3, a passage forming unit 45 is attached to the back side of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 45 is molded from synthetic resin and has a front door side upper plate passage communicating with the upper plate 33 and a front door side lower plate passage communicating with the lower plate 34. In the passage forming unit 45, a socket part that protrudes rearward and is open upward is formed in the upper corner thereof, and by partitioning the socket part into left and right sides by a partition wall, the entrance of the upper tray passage on the front door side is formed. section and an entrance section of the front door side lower plate passage are formed into sections. The upper tray passage on the front door side and the lower tray passage on the front door side are connected on the upstream side to a game ball distribution section which will be described later, and the game balls that have entered the upper tray passage on the front door side are guided to the upper tray 33 and are passed through the lower tray passage on the front door side. The game balls entering the tray passage are guided to the lower tray 34.

On the rear side of the front door frame 14 on the rotation base end side, protruding shafts are provided at the upper and lower ends thereof. These protruding shafts constitute an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13.

Next, the inner frame 13 will be explained in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a front view of the inner frame 13. Note that in FIG. 5 as well as in FIG. 3, the configuration within the gaming area PE of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

(Inner frame 13)
The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of an inner frame base body 50 having a substantially rectangular outer shape like the outer frame 11. The height of the inner frame base body 50 is set to be slightly smaller than the height of the outer frame 11. Further, the inner frame base body 50 is arranged close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a slight gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame base body 50. A curtain plate is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to close this gap. The curtain plate is arranged below the inner frame base body 50 (specifically, the lower end thereof), and when the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the inner frame base body 50 is placed on the curtain plate. It will be posted. Note that a slight clearance may be provided between the curtain plate and the inner frame base body 50 for the purpose of preventing mutual interference.

Support fittings 71 and 72 are attached to the upper and lower ends of the front surface of the inner frame base body 50 on the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 5). Although not shown, the support fittings 71 and 72 have shaft parts, and by inserting the bearing parts provided in the front door frame 14 into these shaft parts, the front door frame is attached to the inner frame 13. 14 is rotatably supported.

A locking device 75 for locking the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is disposed on the rotating tip side (right side in FIG. 5) of the inner frame base body 50. The locking device 75 extends vertically along the right end portion (vertical frame member described later) of the inner frame base body 50, and has front door hook members 76 arranged scattered in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction). have. In the inner frame base body 50, a hook receiving member 49 (see FIG. 3) provided on the back side of the front door frame 14 has a slit for protruding toward the front side of the inner frame 13, corresponding to each front door hook member 76. It is formed in this way. The front door hook members 76 protruding through these slits are locked to the hook receiving members 49 provided on the front door frame 14 in one-to-one correspondence with each front door hook member 76, so that the front door can be opened. The frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 13 so that it cannot be opened. Further, the locking device 75 has an inner frame hook member 77 extending toward the rear side of the inner frame 13. When these inner frame hook members 77 are hooked on the hook receiving members 19 fixed to the outer frame 11, the gaming machine main section 12 is locked in a closed state relative to the outer frame 11.

A cylinder lock 78 for unlocking the locking device 75 is installed on the inner frame base body 50 (locking device 75). The cylinder lock 78 is provided separately from the locking unit (the hook members 76 and 77, the interlocking rod, etc.) constituting the main part of the locking device 75, and is arranged adjacent to the locking unit. When the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the right (clockwise), the front door frame 14 is unlocked from the inner frame 13, and the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the left (counterclockwise). The locking of the inner frame 13 with respect to the outer frame 11 is released when the inner frame 13 is unlocked.

An accommodating recess 51 for accommodating the game board unit 80 is formed in the central portion of the inner frame base body 50. The storage recess is recessed toward the rear of the game machine in accordance with the outer shape of the game board unit 80, and the game board unit 80 is fixed by a manual locking mechanism while being fitted into the storage recess 51 from the front of the game machine. A substantially rectangular window hole 52 is formed at the bottom of the housing recess 51, and the back structure of the game board unit 80 (back surface block 80b to be described later) protrudes to the rear of the inner frame 13 through this window hole 52. . It should be noted that almost the entire area of the window hole 52 is covered from the front of the game machine by the game board unit 80 mounted on the inner frame base body 50.

(Game board unit 80)
The game board unit 80 includes a game board 80a in which a game area PE where game balls flow down is formed on the front side, and is provided on the back side of the game board 80a, and includes various game parts (for example, a variable display unit, a control device, a movable (presentation devices, decorative members, etc.) are mounted on the base body 251 and are integrated with the back block 80b.

As already explained, the game area PE is covered by the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23). The glass unit 22 is designed such that the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front surface of the game board 80a is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game ball flowing down the game area PE is designed to They are arranged so that they are not lined up one after the other. This suppresses ball clogging in the gaming area PE.

Hereinafter, the game board unit 80 (particularly various configurations arranged in the game area PE of the game board 80a) will be explained based on FIGS. 6 to 8. 6 is a front view of the game board unit 80, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the game board unit 80 seen from the rear.

A plurality of large and small openings are formed in the game board 80a, passing through the game board in its thickness direction (back and forth direction). As shown in FIG. 6, each opening is provided with a general winning hole 81, a variable winning device 82, operating holes 83a, 83b, a through gate 84, etc., respectively. When a game ball enters the general winning hole 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating holes 83a and 83b, the game ball is detected by a detection sensor (not shown) provided corresponding to each ball entering portion, and the detection result is Based on this, benefits such as a predetermined number of prize balls (payout of game balls) are given to the player. In addition, an out port 89 is provided at the bottom of the game board 80a, and game balls that have not entered the various ball entry areas are discharged from the game area PE through the out port 89. In the following explanation, in order to clearly distinguish it from the entry of a game ball into the out port 89, the entry of a game ball into the general winning port 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating ports 83a and 83b will also be referred to as "winning". express.

In addition, a large number of nail members 93 are planted on the game board 80a in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling path of the game balls, and various members (accessories) such as a windmill 94 are arranged. There is. Various configurations such as the nail member 93 and the windmill 94 differentiate the flow paths of the game balls, and are adjusted so that winnings to the above-mentioned general prize opening 81 etc. occur with a moderate probability.

A central opening 85 is formed in the center of the game board 80a, and a transparent opening cover (not shown) is attached to cover the central opening 85 from the front side of the game board 80a. Behind this central opening 85, the variable display unit 252 and the like belonging to the back block 80b are located, and the variable display unit 252 and the like are visible from the front of the gaming machine through the central opening 85 (opening cover). .

Operating ports 83a, 83b, a through gate 84, etc. are arranged around the central opening 85. The operating ports 83a, 83b are composed of an upper operating port 83a disposed below the variable display unit 252 and a lower operating port 83b disposed directly below the upper operating port 83a. The (lottery-triggered ball entry section) 83b is provided with an electric accessory 91 as an opening/closing ball entry assisting device (ball entry assisting means) or an opening/closing member (opening/closing means). The electric accessory 91 has a movable piece and a solenoid-type drive unit that drives the movable piece, and the position of the movable piece is changed by the drive unit, thereby preventing the ball from entering the lower operating port 83b. It is possible to switch between an open state (assisting state) in which ball entry is possible or easy, and a closed state (non-assisting state) in which ball entry is not possible or difficult.

In the gaming area PE, the through gate 84 is arranged at a position upstream of the lower operation opening 83b (more specifically, on the side of the variable display unit 252), and the passage of the game ball through the through gate 84 is triggered. If the lottery results in a winner, the electric accessory 91 will be switched from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined period of time.

In addition, when a ball enters the upper operating port 83a, three game balls are put out, and when a ball enters the lower operating port 83b, four game balls are put out. However, the number of game balls to be paid out is not limited to the above. However, for example, in order to increase the advantage of the lower operating port 83b over the upper operating port 83a, it is preferable to set the number of pieces to be dispensed by the lower operating port 83b to be larger than the number of pieces to be dispensed by the upper operating port 83a.

The variable winning device (special ball entry device or special ball entry means) 82 is formed such that a grand prize opening leading to the back side of the game board 80a faces upward, and an opening/closing member for opening and closing the grand prize opening. An opening/closing body (opening/closing means) is provided. The opening/closing body can be switched between an open state (auxiliary state) in which entering the game ball is possible or easy, and a closed state (non-auxiliary state) in which entering the ball is not possible or difficult. In addition, the opening/closing body is connected to a variable winning drive unit (more specifically, a solenoid) provided on the back side of the game board 80a, and under normal conditions, the opening/closing body is maintained in the closed state, and a jackpot is won in the internal lottery. As a result, it is possible to switch to the open state by shifting to the open/close execution mode (special game state). The opening/closing body shown in this embodiment is a flat plate arranged so that the plate surface faces up and down, and when the opening/closing body is in the closed state, the top surface of the opening/closing body is directed toward the center of the gaming area PE. is configured to be able to roll. Further, inside the variable winning device 82, a detection sensor is provided at a position away from the opening/closing body to detect the game ball that has flowed into the big winning hole. This detection sensor is connected to a main control device which will be described later, and the main control device is configured to grasp the number of winnings to the variable winning device 82 based on detection information (detection signal) from this detection sensor. There is.

Here, the opening/closing execution mode is a mode to which the player enters when a jackpot is won. As for the opening mode of the variable prize winning device 82 in the opening/closing execution mode, for example, the elapse of a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or the winning of a predetermined number of prizes (for example, 10) is regarded as one round, and the upper limit is a plurality of rounds (for example, 8 or 16 rounds). The setting is such that the opening and closing body is repeatedly opened.

Here, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the variable display unit 252. The variable display unit 252 includes a symbol display device 253 that variably displays symbols (fluctuating display) using winnings to the operating ports 83a and 83b as a trigger. The symbol display device 253 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and its display contents are controlled by a display control device to be described later. On the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, symbols are displayed side by side, for example, at the top, middle, and bottom, and these symbols are scrolled in the left-right direction so as to be displayed variably. When a jackpot is won, a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on a preset active line, and the game shifts to the opening/closing execution mode (special game state or jackpot). Note that the symbol display device 253 does not necessarily need to be a liquid crystal display device, and may be a dot matrix or 7-segment type display device.

A center frame 95 is provided on the game board 80a so as to surround the central opening 85. The center frame 95 is fixed to the game board 80a (more specifically, the plate body) from the front side thereof, and when it is fixed in this way, it stands up from the front of the game board 80a, so that the center frame 95 The gap between the glass unit 95 and the glass unit 22 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the game ball. As a result, the game balls flowing down the game area PE are prevented from colliding with the symbol display device 253, and the falling path of the game balls flowing down the game area PE is set so that the variable display unit 252 (more specifically, the center frame 95) is on the right side. There are two main routes: the left route, which detours from the center, and the right route, which detours from the left side.

The above-mentioned operating port 83a is disposed on the left route, and the game ball fired to the right route is configured to avoid entering the operating port 83a. The through gate 84 and the variable winning device 82 are arranged on the right route, and the game ball fired to the left route is configured to avoid entering the through gate 84 and the variable winning device 82. . Although the operating port 83b is capable of admitting both game balls launched to the left route and game balls launched to the right route, it is possible to enter the game ball launched from the right route compared to the game ball flowing down the left route. The falling game balls are differentiated so that the probability of them hitting the ball is high. In addition, it is also possible to dispose the operating port 83b on the left route so that the game ball fired to the left route cannot enter the operating port 83b.

On the upper surface of the frame part constituting the lower part of the center frame 95, a stage part is formed on which the game ball can roll left and right. Game balls flowing in from the inflow ports formed in the left and right frame portions of the center frame 95 are discharged onto the stage portion through the warp passages also formed in the center frame 95. The stage section is configured so that the game ball that has reached the stage section can relatively easily flow into the upper operating port 83a, which increases the player's attention to the movement of the game ball on the stage section. Contributing to Note that in this embodiment, as described above, the central opening 85 is covered with a transparent opening cover to prevent the game balls that have reached the stage from moving toward the back block 80b (variable display unit 252). has been done.

The operating ports 83a and 83b are arranged at positions closer to the central opening 85 (variable display unit 252). Since it is possible to shift to a special gaming state using a winning at the operating ports 83a, 83b as a trigger, the player pays attention to whether or not a winning occurs at the operating ports 83a, 83b, and grasps whether or not to shift to the special gaming state. Therefore, it is considered that attention is paid to the symbol display device 253. The fact that the operating ports 83a and 83b are provided closer to the variable display unit 252 is a contrivance for concentrating the player's attention around the variable display unit 252.

A game area dividing member 99 that defines a game area PE together with a guide rail 100, which will be described later, is disposed at the right end of the game board 80a (the rotating tip of the game board unit 80, which will be described later). A stopper member with which a game ball flying along the main display unit 87 and the guide rail 100 collides is provided in the game area dividing member 99. The stopper member is a buffer member arranged near the tip of the guide rail 100, and the game ball that collides with the stopper member will flow down the game area PE after its momentum is weakened. In other words, the stopper member is provided with an energy reducing function that weakens the momentum of the colliding game ball.

Here, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the main display unit 87. The main display unit 87 is embedded in the game area dividing member 99, and a part thereof is arranged to face the glass unit 22. A main display section on which a predetermined pattern or the like is displayed is provided in this opposing portion. The main display unit 87 is electrically connected to a main control device to be described later, and the display contents of the main display section are controlled by the main control device.

The main display section includes an upper operating port display section that displays lottery results based on winnings in the upper operating port 83a, and a lower operating port display section that displays lottery results based on winnings in the lower operating port 83b. and a display section. In the display section for the upper operating port, a variable display of symbols is performed using a win to the upper operating port 83a as a trigger, and as a result of the stoppage of the variable display, an internal lottery drawn based on a winning to the upper operating port 83a is displayed. Results are made clear. If the result of the internal lottery based on the prize entered into the upper operating port 83a is a winning result that corresponds to the transition to the opening/closing execution mode, the variable display is stopped on the upper operating port display section, and a predetermined result is displayed as the stop result. After the picture is displayed, the mode is shifted to the opening/closing execution mode.

In the display section for the lower operating port, a variable display of symbols is performed using a win to the lower operating port 83b as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variable display, an internal lottery drawn based on a winning to the lower operating port 83b is displayed. Results are made clear. If the result of the internal lottery based on the prize entered into the lower operating port 83b is a winning result corresponding to a jackpot, the variable display is stopped on the lower operating port display section, and a predetermined picture is displayed as the stopped result. After that, the mode is shifted to the opening/closing execution mode according to the result.

Here, based on winning to either of the operating ports 83a, 83b, a variable display is started on the corresponding operating port display section, and after the symbol corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed, the symbol stops. The time it remains displayed until a predetermined stop display time (determined display time) elapses (until the final display ends) corresponds to one game round. However, one game round is not limited to the above content, for example, a single display area is provided, and even if a winning occurs in either of the operating ports 83a, 83b, that single display area is displayed. In a configuration in which a variable display is performed in a display area, the variable display starts in the single display area, and the predetermined stop result is displayed until the fixed display ends after the variable display is stopped. It is also possible to make it one game time.

In addition to the above-mentioned two display sections, the main display section of the main display unit 87 is also provided with a through-gate display section that displays lottery results based on winnings in the through-gate 84. In the display section for the through gate, a changing display of symbols is performed using a win in the through gate 84 as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the changing display, the result of an internal lottery conducted based on a win in the through gate 84 is clearly displayed. be done. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning through gate 84 is a winning result that corresponds to the transition to the electric role open state, a predetermined stop result will be displayed on the through gate display section and the fluctuation display will be displayed. After being stopped, it transitions to the power open state. In the electrically powered open state, the electrically powered accessory 91 provided in the lower operating port 83b is opened in a predetermined manner.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the number of times a game ball passes through the through gate 84 is held up to a maximum of four times, but the main display section of the main display unit 87 shows the number of held balls ) is provided for displaying the number of reservations.

The main display section detailed above is visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 22 of the front door frame 14, and the game balls are prevented from moving in front of these various display sections. Therefore, its visibility is guaranteed.

To explain the structure of the inner frame 13 again using FIG. 5, below the game board unit 80 in the inner frame base body 50, a game ball is ejected to the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball ejecting handle 41. A game ball firing mechanism 110 is provided.

(Game ball firing mechanism 110)
The game ball launch mechanism 110 includes a solenoid 111 that launches a game ball placed at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines the launch direction of the game ball launched by the solenoid 111, and a game ball launcher located at the launch standby position. The main components include a ball feeding device 113 that supplies balls and a base plate 114 to which various components 111 to 113 are attached, and when the base plate 114 is fixed to the inner frame base 50, the same It is integrated with the inner frame base body 50.

The launch rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in an obliquely inclined state so as to be inclined upward toward the game board 80a side. A groove portion having a substantially V-shaped cross section is formed in the firing rail 112, and the game ball is fitted into the groove portion to define the front and rear positions of the game ball.

A ball stopper is arranged near the downstream end (that is, the lower end) of the firing rail 112 to keep the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 at the firing standby position described above. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream than the ball stopper.

The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power source/launch control device that will be described later. The output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion and contraction direction based on the output of an electrical signal from the power supply/launch control device, so that the game ball placed in the firing standby position is moved to the game board 80a side, more specifically, the game ball It is launched toward the guide rail 100 attached to the board 80a.

The guide rail 100, together with a game area dividing member 99 fixed to the game board 80a (specifically, the front surface of the board), defines the game area PE so that the outer shape of the game area PE is approximately circular. Further, the guide rail 100 consists of an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 that are arranged to face each other with a gap larger than the diameter of the game ball, and a single guide path 103 is defined by these rails 101 and 102. has been done. The guide passage 103 has an entrance portion 104 open to the tip side (diagonally downward) of the launch rail 112, and an exit portion 105 located above the game area PE. A game ball fired based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the firing rail 112→guidance rail 100 (entrance portion 104→exit portion 105). In addition, on the game board 80a, on the forward side of the exit portion 105, more specifically, near the tip of the inner rail 101, a return prevention member 106 is attached to prevent the game balls that have reached the game area PE from returning to the guide path 103. This prevents the game ball that has reached the game area PE first from interfering with the launch of the subsequent game ball.

Each of the rails 101 and 102 constituting the guide rail 100 is in the shape of an arc centered approximately at the center of the gaming area PE. Therefore, the game ball passing through the guide path 103 is likely to move (slide or roll) along the outer rail 102, that is, while in contact with the outer rail 102, due to the centrifugal force generated within the ball. In other words, when a game ball is launched so as to deliver it to the game area PE, the area along the outer rail 102 in the guide path 103 substantially constitutes a passage area (passing route) through which the game ball passes. However, the area along the inner rail 101 is an area through which the game ball does not substantially pass.

As shown in FIG. 5, the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112 are arranged so that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip end of the launch rail 112 diagonally face each other across the lower edge of the game board 80a. has been done. In other words, both the rails 100 and 112 are arranged such that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 are shifted from side to side near the lower edge of the game board 80a. This allows both rails 100, 112 to approach the lower edge of the game board 80a, while forming a gap at a predetermined distance between the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112.

A foul ball passage is provided below the gap thus formed. The foul ball passage is integrally formed with the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. If the game balls fired from the game ball launch mechanism 110 do not reach the game area PE and return inside the guide path 103 as foul balls, those foul balls will enter the foul ball path through the gap. Become. The foul ball passage leads to a lower tray passage on the front door side, and game balls that have entered the foul ball passage are discharged to the lower tray 34 shown in FIG. 1. This suppresses interference between the foul ball and the next game ball to be fired.

A rail cover 107 is provided at the left end of the game board 80a so as to cover the outer rail 102 from the side. The game board unit 80 is often handled alone during manufacturing or maintenance work, and at this time the outer rail 102 may collide with the game machine or the like. The rail cover 107 is a member installed in view of such circumstances, and is provided with a protective function to prevent the outer rail 102 from being deformed due to the above factors.

In the inner frame base body 50, a through hole is formed on the left side of the firing rail 112 (specifically, on the side supporting the front door frame 14), which penetrates the inner frame base body 50 in the front and rear direction. A passage forming member 121 is disposed at. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the inner frame base 50 and has a main body side upper plate passage 122 and a main body side lower plate passage 123. The upstream sides of the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123 communicate with a game ball distribution section to be described later. Further, a socket part of a passage forming unit attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the passage forming member 121, and a front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side upper plate passage 122. A front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side lower plate passage 123.

An opening/closing member 124 for opening and closing the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123 is attached below the passage forming member 121 in the inner frame base body 50. The opening/closing members 124 are biased to a forward position that closes the main body side upper pan passage 122 and the main body side lower pan passage 123, and when the front door frame 14 is opened, each opening/closing member 124 is biased by this biasing force. By being in the closed state, falling of game balls from each passage 122, 123 is avoided. On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening/closing member 124 is pushed open by the socket provided in the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14 against the urging force. In this state, the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage communicate with each other, and the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage communicate with each other.

Next, the back structure of the inner frame 13 (inner frame base body 50 and game board unit 80) will be explained based on FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

As shown in FIG. 8, a bearing fitting 132 is attached to the rotation proximal end side (right side in FIG. 8) on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50. As shown in FIG. Bearing parts 133 are formed in the bearing fitting 132 at vertically spaced intervals, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing parts 133. Further, on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50, a plurality of fixing levers 134 are provided for fixing the back pack unit 15 to the inner frame base body 50 in a closed state.

As already explained, the bottom part of the storage recess (game board storage part) 51 in the inner frame base body 50 is penetrated in the thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50 and opened to the back side of the inner frame base body 50. A window hole 52 is formed, and the window hole 52 is covered from the front side of the inner frame 13 by the game board unit 80 accommodated in the accommodation recess 51. Various components such as a control device are mounted on the back side of the game board unit 80 (back block 80b), and these various components are exposed on the back side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 52. Here, the configuration of the back side of the game board unit 80 will be explained.

As already explained, the back block 80b is attached to the back of the game board 80a. The back block 80b has a substantially box-shaped base body 251 that is open to the game board 80a side, and when this base body 251 is fixed to the back side of the game board 80a, the game board 80a and the back block 80b are connected to each other. are integrated.

The front side of the base body 251 is an area for arranging movable presentation mechanisms, decorative members that can emit light, etc., and the back side thereof is a control device for controlling these various components and the variable display unit 252 (design display device). 253).

More specifically, a part of the base body 251 protrudes to the back side of the inner frame base body 50, and the above-mentioned symbol display device 253 (see FIG. 6) and its symbol display device are attached to the protruding portion. A display control device for driving 253 is attached. The symbol display device 253 and the display control device are arranged one on top of the other in the front-rear direction (thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50) such that the symbol display device is on the front side and the display control device is on the rear side. Further, a notification/presentation control device 140 is mounted on the back side of the base body 251 so as to be located behind the display control device.

The notification/performance control device 140 includes a notification/performance control board that controls the output of audio, lamp displays, movable performance devices, and display control device according to instructions from the main control device, which will be described later. A production control board is housed in a board box 141 made of a transparent resin material or the like.

A main control device unit 160 is provided below the notification/performance control device 140 so as to cover the base body 96 from behind. The main controller unit 160 includes a synthetic resin mounting base 161 fixed to the back of the game board unit 80 (specifically, the back block 80b), and a main controller 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. There is. The main control device 162 is equipped with a main control board that has a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power outage monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a board box 163 consisting of, etc.

The board box 163 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box base (front case body) and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. These box base and box cover are unopenably connected by a box sealing portion 164 serving as a sealing means, thereby sealing the substrate box 163. A plurality of box sealing parts 164 are provided on the short sides of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

Any configuration can be applied to the box sealing part 164 as long as it connects the box base and the box cover in an unsealable manner. The base and the box cover are joined together in an unopenable manner. The sealing process performed by the box sealing unit 164 prevents unauthorized opening of the box after it has been sealed, and even if unauthorized opening occurs, such a situation can be detected early and easily. Even after opening the package, it is possible to reseal it. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting a locking pin into at least one locking hole among the plurality of box sealing parts 164. When the board box 163 is unsealed in the event of a malfunction of the housed main control board or when the main control board is inspected, the connecting portion between the box sealing part into which the locking pin is inserted and the main body of the board box 163 is removed. cut. As a result, the box base and box cover of the board box 163 are separated, and the main control board inside can be taken out. After that, if the sealing process is to be performed again, a locking pin is inserted into another locking hole. If a history indicating that the board box 163 has been opened is left in the board box 163, it can be easily discovered by looking at the board box 163 that the board box 163 has been opened in an unauthorized manner.

The board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are unopenably connected by a base sealing portion 165. Specifically, the pedestal sealing part 165 has a locking hole and a locking pin like the box sealing part 164, and when the locking pin is inserted into the locking hole, the base sealing part 165 is connected to the board box 163. The mounting base 161 is connected inseparably. This makes it easier to identify the fact that the board box 163 has been illegally removed.

A key hole 167 into which a setting change key is inserted is provided in the front part of the main control device 162 (the part facing the rear of the gaming machine) where overlapping with the back pack 201, which will be described later, is avoided. A switch 166 and a set value display section 168 are provided. Although the details will be described later, in the pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the jackpot probability is set in multiple stages (more specifically, three stages), and the setting change key inserted into the key hole 167 is placed in the ON position. The setting value is changed by operating the setting change switch 166 in the ON state. While the setting change key is placed in the ON position, the currently selected setting value is displayed on the setting value display section 168, allowing the operator to change the setting while visually checking the setting value. It becomes.

In the front part of the base body 251, the portion facing the lower back surface of the game board 80a is provided with the general prize opening 81, the variable prize winning device 82, and the operating ports 83a, 83b, which correspond to the game board openings and are located on the downstream side. A recovery passageway (not shown) is formed that gathers at one location. As a result, all the game balls that have won in the general prize opening 81 etc. are configured to gather below the game board unit 80 via the collection path. That is, the base body 251 is provided with a function of collecting game balls that have entered various winning holes.

A discharge passage, which will be described later, is arranged below the game board unit 80, and the game balls gathered below the game board unit 80 are led out into the discharge passage by the collection passage. The out port 89 also communicates with the discharge passage, and game balls that have not won in any of the winning ports are led out into the discharge passage through the out port 89.

In addition, the base body 251 constituting the back block 80b includes a general winning hole detection sensor that detects a game ball that has entered the general winning hole 81 as a detection sensor for each of the above-mentioned ball entering portions, and an operating hole 83a. , 83b is installed, and a detection sensor for the operating port is installed to detect the game ball that has entered the ball, and a winning detection mechanism is constituted by these various detection sensors. These various detection sensors are electrically connected to the main control device 162, and each detection sensor outputs detection information (detection signal) to the main control device 162.

Next, the back pack unit 15 will be explained based on FIGS. 9 and 10. 9 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 10 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

As shown in FIG. 9, the inner frame 13 is covered from the rear by a back pack unit 15. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201 as the main body of the back pack unit 15, and a dispensing mechanism section 202, a discharge passage panel, and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201. .

The back pack 201 is molded from a transparent synthetic resin, and includes a base part 211 to which the payout mechanism part 202 and the like are attached, as shown in FIG. 212. The protective cover section 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the top surface are closed, and only the bottom surface is open, and has a size sufficient to at least surround the variable display unit 252 (see FIG. 9).

An external output terminal board 213 is provided on the upper part of the base portion 211. The external output terminal board 213 is provided with various output terminals, and a wiring WH1 connecting the gaming hall side management control device (hall computer HC) and the pachinko machine 10 is connected to these output terminals. Various signals outputted from the external output terminal board 213 (output terminal) of the pachinko machine 10 are transmitted to the hall computer HC through the wiring WH1, and the hall computer HC determines the status of the pachinko machine 10, the gaming situation, etc. based on these various signals. It is configured to be understood.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower latching pins 214 at the right end when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the latching pins 214 are connected to the bearings provided on the inner frame 13. By being inserted through the portion 133, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported with respect to the inner frame 13. The base portion 211 is formed with a plurality of insertion portions into which fixing levers 134 provided on the inner frame 13 are inserted, and when the fixing lever 134 is inserted into the insertion portions, it is applied to the base portion 211 from behind. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13 by contacting the inner frame 13.

The dispensing mechanism section 202 is disposed on the base section 211 so as to bypass the protective cover section 212. The payout mechanism section 202 is provided with a tank 221 which is disposed at the top of the back pack 201 and opens upward, and the tank 221 is sequentially replenished with game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall. Ru. A tank rail 222 that slopes gently toward the downstream side is connected to the side of the tank 221, and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A dispensing device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223 . The game balls put out by the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution section 225 provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided downstream of the payout device 224.

The game ball distribution unit 225 has a function of distributing the game balls put out from the payout device 224 to either the upper tray 33, the lower tray 34, or a discharge passage described later, and has an inner opening that is connected to the main body described above. It is formed so that it communicates with the upper plate 33 via the side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage, and the outer opening communicates with the lower plate 34 via the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage. has been done.

A discharge passage panel and control device assembly unit 204 is attached to the lower end of the base portion 211 so as to sandwich the lower end in the front and back directions. A discharge passage opened to the rear is formed on the surface of the discharge passage panel facing the control device assembly unit 204, and the open portion of the discharge passage is closed by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed to discharge game balls to the island equipment of the game hall, etc., and the game balls led to the discharge passage from the above-mentioned collection passage etc. are delivered to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 by passing through the discharge passage. It is discharged.

The control device assembly unit 204 has a mounting base 241 having a horizontally long shape, and a dispensing control device 242 and a power source/firing control device 243 are mounted on the mounting base 241. The payout control device 242 and the power supply/launch control device 243 are arranged one on top of the other so that the payout control device 242 is located at the rear of the pachinko machine 10.

In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is housed in a board box 244, and a state return switch 245 provided on the payout control board protrudes outside the board box 244. For example, when the state recovery switch 245 is pressed when a dispensing error occurs, such as a ball jam in the dispensing device 224, the ball jam is cleared.

In the power source/launch control device 243, a power source/launch control board is housed in a board box 246. The power supply/launch control board generates and outputs a predetermined power required by various control devices, etc., and further controls the launch of the game ball as the player operates the game ball launch handle 41. Specifically, drive control of the solenoid 111 that constitutes the game ball firing mechanism 110 and drive control of the ball feeding device 113 are executed.

Further, the power supply/launch control device 243 is provided with a power switch 247. By operating the power switch 247, the power of the pachinko machine 10 can be switched to an on state (on state) or a cut off state (off state).

Here, this pachinko machine 10 has a memory retention function for various data, and even in the event of a power outage, it retains the state at the time of the power outage, and returns to the state at the time of the power outage when recovering from the power outage. It is now possible to do so. For example, when the power is shut off in a normal procedure, such as when a game hall is closed, the state before the shutoff is stored and retained. On the other hand, when the power is turned on while pressing a RAM erase switch (not shown) provided on the main controller 162, the RAM data is initialized.

These various switches, the above-mentioned setting change switch 166, etc. can be operated from the front side of the gaming machine by opening the main part 12 (inner frame 13) of the gaming machine and exposing the back side of the inner frame 13. On the other hand, in a state where opening of the gaming machine main section 12 is restricted by the locking device 75, these switches etc. cannot be operated from the front side of the gaming machine. In other words, the various switches mentioned above are difficult to operate when the main part 12 of the gaming machine is closed, and can be operated from the front side of the gaming machine by someone who does not own the key for the locking device 75 (for example, a fraudulent person). is difficult.

Here, the rear block 80b of the game board unit 80 is provided with a first movable performance device 300 and a second movable performance device 380 as movable performance devices that perform interlocking performance in conjunction with the fluctuating display of symbols on the symbol display device 253 as the game progresses. are arranged, and an operating area for these presentation devices 300 and 380 is secured between the game board 80a and the symbol display device 253. In this embodiment, since the configurations related to these movable presentation devices 300 and 380 are characteristic, each movable presentation device 300 and 380 will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 6 and 11. . FIG. 11 is a front view of the first movable presentation device 300.

(Second movable production device 380)
As shown in FIG. 6, the second movable performance device 380 is movable (elevated) to a performance position that overlaps the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 from the front of the gaming machine and a standby position where the overlap is avoided. It has a decorative body 385 and a solenoid 386 as a drive unit that moves the decorative body 385 up and down. The solenoid 386 is connected to the notification/performance control device 140, and is switched from a non-excited state to an energized state by inputting a drive signal from the notification/performance control device 140. The decoration body 385 remains in the standby position due to its own weight under the condition that the above-mentioned interlocking effect is not performed, and moves from the standby position to the effect position when the solenoid 386 is switched to the excited state. Although the decorative body 385 is hidden behind the game board 80a and cannot be seen from the front of the game machine when it is placed in the standby position, the decorative body 385 is hidden by moving from the standby position to the production position. Visible from the front of the gaming machine. Note that the decorative body 385 is configured to be colored and opaque, and when the decorative body 385 is placed at the presentation position, the pattern etc. displayed behind the decorative body 385 cannot be seen.

When a predetermined execution condition is satisfied as the game progresses, the decorative body 385 is placed at the performance position, and thereby a linked performance (cooperative performance) that is linked (cooperated) with the display on the display screen 253a is executed. Regarding the second movable performance device 380, there are cases where the linked performance is performed alone and cases where the linked performance is performed together with the first movable performance device 300 described above. In the following explanation, the interlocking performance in which the symbol display device 253, the first movable performance device 300, and the second movable performance device 380 are used together will be referred to as a "special performance."

(First movable production device 300)
The above-described first movable performance device 300 is arranged behind the second movable performance device 380. As shown in FIG. 11, the first movable performance device 300 has a substantially box-shaped housing 310 that is open to the game board 80a side. The housing 310 includes a bottom plate part 311 that faces the back surface of the game board 80a with a gap therebetween, and a peripheral wall part 315 formed along the outer periphery of the bottom plate part 311, and the first movable performance device 300 is constructed of a bottom plate part 311 that faces the back surface of the game board 80a with a gap therebetween. A production block 320 is housed in an area surrounded by the section 311 and the peripheral wall section 315. By fixing this housing 310 to the base body 251 (see FIG. 7) of the back block 80b, the first movable presentation device 300 is integrated with the back block 80b.

The bottom plate portion 311 is located in front of the symbol display device 253, and a central portion of the bottom plate portion 311, specifically a portion facing the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 from the front of the gaming machine, is penetrated from the front and back. A circular opening 313 is formed. The display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 is visible from the front of the gaming machine through the central opening 85 of the gaming board 80a and the opening 313 of the housing 310.

The production block 320 has a flat base plate 330 on which a decoration unit 350, which will be described later, is mounted. The base plate 330 has an annular shape (doughnut shape), and is arranged so that its central axis coincides with the central axis of the opening 313 and one plate surface is overlapped with the front surface of the bottom plate part 311. It is installed in 310. In the following description, the central axis of the base plate 330 will be referred to as the "central axis CL."

A holding portion 312 that holds the base plate 330 rotatably about the central axis CL is formed in the bottom plate portion 311 of the housing 310. A stepping motor 371 is disposed in the housing 310 as a drive unit for the base plate 330. The stepping motor 371 is connected to the notification/performance control device 140 and operates based on a drive signal from the notification/performance control device 140. When the stepping motor 371 operates, the base plate 330 (production block 320) rotates around the opening 313.

Note that a rotational position detection sensor for detecting the rotational position of the base plate 330 is disposed in the housing 310. This rotational position detection sensor is connected to the notification/performance control device 140, and in the notification/performance control device 140, the base plate 330 (performance block 320) is adjusted based on the detection signal (detection information) from the rotation detection sensor. The rotational position can be determined.

A decoration unit 350 is attached to the front side of the base plate 330. The decorative unit 350 has a ring shape surrounding the opening 313 by combining a plurality of unit structures 355 arranged in the circumferential direction of the base plate 330. Each unit structure 355 has an elongated shape extending in the tangential direction of a virtual circle centered on the central axis CL, and the ends of the unit structures 355 are connected together. As a result, the appearance of the decoration unit 350 is a pentagon with the connection points of the unit structures 355 being the vertices when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12(a), a supplementary explanation will be given of the decoration unit 350 and its related configuration. FIG. 12(a) is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 11.

As shown in FIG. 11, the unit structure 355 includes a pair of decorative members 356 arranged in the tangential direction and a connecting portion 358 that connects the decorative members 356. A light-emitting board 357 on which a plurality of light-emitting bodies 357a are mounted is fixed to the decorative member 356, and the light-emitting body mounting surface of the light-emitting board 357 is covered from the front of the gaming machine by the front surface of the decorative member 356 (see FIG. 12(a)). The light emitting board 357 is connected to the notification/effect control device 140, and the light emitter 357a emits light when power is supplied from the notification/effect control device 140. The decorative member 356 has light transmittance, and the light from the light emitter 357a passes through the front surface of the decorative member 356 and is irradiated to the front of the gaming machine.

The unit structure 355 is bendable (flexible) around the above-mentioned connecting portion 358. Specifically, it is deformable between an initial state in which the pair of decorative members 356 are arranged in series and a bent state in which the connecting portion 358 is bent so as to be convex toward the central axis CL.

When all the unit structures 355 are in the initial state, these unit structures 355 are hidden behind the game board 80a and cannot be seen from the front of the game machine. On the other hand, when the unit structures 355 are in a bent state, the unit structures 355 overlap the display screen 253a from the front of the gaming machine, so that they are visible from the front of the gaming machine. It is configured. In the following description, the display form of the decorative unit 350 when each unit structure 355 is in the initial state is the "first form" (see FIG. 11), and the display form when each unit structure 355 is in the bent state. The display form of the decoration unit 350 will be referred to as a "second form" (see FIG. 6).

Next, the link mechanism 340 for switching the decoration unit 350 between the first form and the second form will be described. As shown in FIG. 11, the link mechanism 340 includes an annular ring member 341 centered on the central axis CL, and a connecting member 345 that connects the ring member 341 and the connecting portion 358 of the unit structure 355. ing. This ring member 341 is attached to the base plate 330 so as to be rotatable about the central axis CL. The base plate 330 includes a stopper that defines the rotation range (initial position to maximum rotation position) of the ring member 341, a biasing member that biases the ring member 341 to the initial position, and a biasing member that biases the ring member 341. A restriction portion is provided that restricts the return of the ring member 341 to the initial position when the ring member 341 moves from the initial position to the maximum rotation position against the urging force of the ring member 341 .

Further, the housing 310 is provided with a stepping motor 375 that is a drive section for the ring member 341. The stepping motor 375 is connected to the notification/performance control device 140, and operates when a drive signal is input from the notification/performance control device 140. As the stepping motor 375 rotates in the forward direction, the ring member 341 moves from the initial position to the maximum rotation position against the biasing force of the biasing member. When the stepping motor 375 rotates in the opposite direction while the ring member 341 is waiting for the maximum rotation position, the restriction by the restriction section is released, and the ring member 341 is returned to the initial position by the urging force of the urging member. It is configured to return to .

The connecting member 345 has an elongated shape, and one end thereof is fixed to the base plate 330, and the other end is fixed to the unit structure 355 (connecting portion 358). The connecting member 345 is rotatable around a point fixed to the base plate 330 (the above-mentioned one end), and the outer periphery of the one end has teeth arranged on the inner periphery of the ring member 341. Teeth are arranged to engage the parts. As the ring member 341 rotates, the connecting member 345 is pushed by the teeth of the ring member 341, and the connecting member 345 rotates around the fixed location, changing the posture of the connecting member 345. .

When the ring member 341 rotates from the initial position to the maximum rotation position, the connecting member 345 rotates to follow it, but at this time, the other end of the connecting member 345 approaches the central axis CL. Displaced to. Since this other end is fixed to the connecting portion 358 of the unit structure 355, the connecting portion 358 approaches the central axis CL as the posture of the connecting member 345 changes. As a result, the unit structure switches from the initial state to the bent state, and the display form of the decorative unit 350 switches from the first form to the second form.

A relay board 305 is provided in the housing 310 of the first movable presentation device 300. This relay board 305 is connected to the notification/effect control device 140 by a wiring group 306. Further, the relay board 305 is connected to stepping motors 371 and 375 via wiring lines 307 and 308. A drive signal (electric power) from the notification/effect control device 140 is input to the stepping motors 371, 375 through wiring 307, 308, and the display form and rotating operation of the decoration unit 350 are controlled by the notification/effect control device 140.

As already explained, the notification/effect control device 140 is configured to not only control the display form and circulating operation but also control the light emission of the decoration unit 350. In a configuration in which the decoration unit 350 receives power and emits light, it can be expected that the appearance and impact of the interlocking performance by the first movable performance device 300 will be improved compared to a configuration in which the decoration unit 350 is simply rotated. However, if the relay board 305 and the decorative unit 350 are simply connected by wiring, the wiring will become entwined due to repeated circular movements. In other words, while the various effects mentioned above can be expected, it is assumed that there will be a limit on the number of times, etc., in the circular operation. This is not preferable in terms of increasing attention to the game.

In view of the above-mentioned circumstances, the present embodiment is characterized in that a device is devised to supply power to the decoration unit 350 (light-emitting board 357) without interfering with the rotating operation of the decoration unit 350. There are two. The invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 11, 12(b), and 13. FIG. 12(b) is a schematic diagram showing the power supply route to the decoration unit 350, and FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the power supply route during special effects.

The relay board 305 is connected via a wiring 309 to a power supply mechanism 360 that supplies power to the decoration unit 350, and the relay board 305, the wiring 309, and the power supply mechanism 360 supply power to the decoration unit 350 from the notification/effect control device 140. A portion of the power supply path to 350 has been constructed.

The power supply mechanism 360 includes a first arm member 361 attached to the housing 310 (bottom plate portion 311) and a second arm member 365 attached to the decoration unit 350 (unit structure 355). The first arm member 361 belonging to the housing 310 side and the second arm member 365 belonging to the decoration unit 350 side are both pivoted so that they can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. The rotation center axis line is arranged so as to be parallel to the center axis line CL.

The first arm member 361 and the second arm member 365 are connected at the end on the rotation tip side. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12(b), a cylindrical shaft portion 366 extending in the front-rear direction is formed at the end of the second arm member 365, and this shaft portion 366 is connected to the first arm member. It engages with a bearing part 362 formed at the end of 361.

In this embodiment, in a situation where a special effect is not being executed, the unit structure 355 to which the second arm member 365 is attached is located below the opening 313 (on the same side as the second movable effect device 380). It is configured to wait for The attachment point of the second arm member 365 is a connecting portion 358 that is displaced toward and away from the central axis CL (specifically, the amount of displacement is the largest) as the unit structure 355 switches between the initial state and the bent state. It becomes.

When the unit structure 355 is switched to the initial state/bent state as the display form of the decorative unit 350 is switched, the connecting portion 358 is displaced toward and away from the central axis CL. At this time, by changing the angles of the first arm member 361 and the second arm member 365 about the shaft portion 366, the presence of the power supply mechanism 360 is prevented from interfering with switching the display format. .

A bearing portion 362 formed in the first arm member 361 penetrates in the front-rear direction, and a tip of a shaft portion 366 protrudes from the bearing portion 362. An annular connection terminal 367 (slip ring) centered on the central axis of the shaft portion 366 is provided on the outer periphery of this protruding portion. The connection terminal 367 is connected to the light emitting board 357 via wiring built into the second arm member 365.

The first arm member 361 is provided with a linear connection terminal 363 (brush) extending in a direction intersecting the central axis of the shaft portion 366. The connection terminal 363 is connected to the relay board 305 via wiring built into the first arm member 361. The connection terminal 363 is fixed to the first arm member 361 in a cantilevered manner, and its tip portion (free end) is pressed against the connection terminal 367. In other words, the connecting terminal 363 is not fixed to the connecting terminal 367, and sliding with respect to the connecting terminal 367 is allowed. When the angle between the first arm member 361 and the second arm member 365 changes, the contact point of the connection terminal 367 changes as the connection terminal 367 slides while maintaining contact with the connection terminal 363. do. Even if the angle formed in this manner changes, the relative distance between the connecting terminals 363 and 367 remains constant, so that the contact state between the connecting terminals 363 and 367 will not be released.

When the unit structure 355 switches from the initial state to the bent state, the connecting portion 358 of the unit structure 355 is displaced toward the central axis CL. At this time, one end of the second arm member 365 is arranged on the central axis CL. More specifically, the central axis of the shaft portion 366 is arranged at a position that coincides with the central axis CL. In this way, by arranging the connection terminal in a portion of the decorative unit 350 that is located on the center axis CL during the rotation, the connection state can be suitably maintained even during the rotation operation (Fig. 13(a)→Fig. 13(b)).

Note that the unit structure 355 to which the second arm member 365 is attached and the other unit structures 355 are connected via wiring (not shown) built into each unit structure 355, and the power supply Power supplied to one unit structure 355 via the mechanism 360 is supplied to all unit structures 355 via the wiring.

Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the movements of the movable performance devices 300, 380 when performing the special performance will be described.

In a game round related to a special performance, first, a drive signal is output from the notification/performance control device 140 to the stepping motor 375, and the display form of the decoration unit 350 of the first movable performance device 300 changes from the first form (pentagon) to the first form (pentagon). Switches to 2 forms (star type). By switching the display form, the decoration unit 350 overlaps the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 from the front of the gaming machine, and the decoration unit 350 becomes visible from the front of the gaming machine. At this time, power supply to the light emitting board 357 is started, and the decoration unit 350 in the second form emits bright light, thereby attracting attention to the special effect.

In this embodiment, the central opening 85 formed in the game board 80a has a substantially rectangular shape. In the first form, the power supply mechanism 360 is located below the central opening 85 and hidden behind the game board 80a, but by switching to the second form, it is located in front of the display screen 253a. By moving, the power supply mechanism 360 becomes visible from the front of the game machine. Here, at the timing immediately after switching to the second mode, a drive signal is output to the solenoid 386 of the second movable presentation device 380, and the decoration body 385 moves from the standby position to the presentation position. Most of the power supply mechanism 360 is covered from the front of the game machine by the decorative body 385 placed at the performance position, so that the power supply mechanism 360 is made less noticeable.

Immediately after the decorative body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 is placed at the presentation position, the output of a drive signal to the stepping motor 371 is started. As a result, the decoration unit 350 starts rotating while maintaining the second configuration. Here, although the angle formed by the second arm member 365 and the first arm member 361 changes depending on the circumferential position of the decoration unit 350, the contact state of the connection terminals 363 and 367 is maintained, and the light emitting board 357 Power supply will continue.

When the special effect ends, the decoration unit 350 is stopped at a preset rotation position, and the output of the drive signal to the stepping motor 371 is stopped, and the display form is returned to the first form. A drive signal is output to stepping motor 375. In line with this, the power supply to the light emitting board 357 is stopped, and the output of the drive signal to the solenoid 386 of the second movable presentation device 380 is stopped. As a result, both movable performance devices 300, 380 return to the state before the start of the special performance.

(Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be explained with reference to the blocks in FIG.

An MPU 402 is mounted on a main control board 401 provided in the main control device 162. The MPU 402 includes a ROM 403 that stores various control programs and fixed value data to be executed by the MPU 402, and a memory that temporarily stores various data etc. when executing the control programs stored in the ROM 403. It is an element that includes a RAM 404, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input/output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which some of the functions of the MPU 402, such as the functions of the ROM 403 and the functions of the RAM 404, are provided as separate elements.

The MPU 402 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A power outage monitoring board 405 provided in the main control device 162, a payout control device 242, various detection sensors, etc. are connected to the input side of the MPU 402. A power supply/launch control device 243 is connected to the power outage monitoring board 405, and power is supplied to the MPU 402 via the power outage monitoring board 405.

As part of the various detection sensors, a ball entry detection sensor 391a that detects a ball entering the general winning opening 81 (winning), a ball entry detection sensor 391b that detects a ball entering the variable winning device 82 (winning), and a variable winning prize. A ball entry detection sensor 391c detects a ball entering the device 82 (big winning hole) (winning), a ball entry detection sensor 391d detects a ball entering the upper operating port 83a (winning), a ball entering the lower operating port 83b. A ball entry detection sensor 391e that detects a ball (winning) and a ball entry detection sensor 391f that detects a ball entering the through gate 84 (winning) are connected, and the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 controls the ball entering section. A winning determination (ball entry determination) is made. Furthermore, the MPU 402 executes a jackpot occurrence lottery based on winnings to the upper operating port 83a and lower operating port 83b, and also executes a support occurrence lottery based on winnings to the through gate 84.

A power outage monitoring board 405, a payout control device 242, and a notification/performance control device 140 are connected to the output side of the MPU 402. A prize ball command is output to the payout control device 242, for example, based on the winning determination result for the winning ball entering portions such as the above-mentioned operation ports 83a and 83b. In this case, the command information storage area 425 of the ROM 403 is referred to when outputting the prize ball command. When a winning to the general winning opening 81 is specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 10 game balls is output, and when a winning to the variable winning device 82 is specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 15 game balls is output. A prize ball command corresponding to the payout of three game balls is output, and when a winning to the upper operating port 83a is specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the paying out of three game balls is output, and a winning to the lower operating port 83b is specified. When specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of four game balls is output.

The main control device 162 outputs various commands such as a variation command, a type command, a variation end command, an opening command, and an ending command to the notification/effect control device 140. In this case, the command information storage area 425 of the ROM 403 is referred to when outputting these various commands. Details of these various commands will be explained later. Note that each of the above commands is configured as information of a predetermined number of bytes, and various information is included as the information of the predetermined number of bytes.

In addition, on the output side of the MPU 402, a variable winning drive section that opens and closes the opening/closing body (for example, the shutter member 88) of the variable winning device 82, an electric accessory drive section that opens and closes the electric accessory 91 of the lower operation opening 83b, and A main display unit 87 is connected. The main control board 401 is provided with various driver circuits, and the MPU 402 executes drive control of various drive units through the driver circuits.

That is, in the opening/closing execution mode, the MPU 402 executes drive control of the variable winning prize drive unit so that the variable winning prize device 82 is opened and closed. Furthermore, when the support lottery for the electric accessory 91 is won, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit is executed in the MPU 402 so that the electric accessory 91 is opened and closed. Furthermore, display control of the main display section of the main display unit 87 is executed by the MPU 402 .

Furthermore, an external output terminal board 213 is connected to the output side of the MPU 402, and through this external output terminal board 213 ball entry information to various ball entry sections is sent to the management control device (hall computer HC) on the gaming hall side. Information regarding lottery results such as winnings and jackpots is output. This makes it possible to grasp the status of the pachinko machine 10, the gaming situation, etc. on the hall computer HC.

The power outage monitoring board 405 relays between the main control board 401 and the power supply/launch control device 243, and the power outage monitoring board 405 has a stable DC voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply/launch control device 243. It has the ability to monitor. The payout control device 242 controls the payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 224 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 162.

The power source/launch control device 243 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. Then, based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, the necessary operating power is generated for the main control board 401, payout control device 242, etc., and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. do. Further, the power source/launch control device 243 is responsible for controlling the launch of the game ball launch mechanism 110, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

The notification/performance control device 140 is provided with a notification/performance control board equipped with an MPU. The MPU includes a ROM that stores various control programs and fixed value data to be executed by the MPU, and a memory that temporarily stores various data etc. when executing the control programs stored in the ROM. It has a built-in RAM and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data input/output circuit. Note that it is not essential that the ROM and RAM are integrated into one chip for the MPU, and each may be integrated into separate chips. Based on various commands input from the main control device 162, the MPU of the notification/performance control device 140 controls the lamp sections 26 to 28 provided in the front door frame 14, the speaker section 29, the first movable presentation device 300, and the first movable presentation device 300. It drives and controls the two movable presentation devices 380 and also controls the display control device 410.

The display control device 410 executes display control of the symbol display device 253 based on commands input from the notification/performance control device 140. In this case, the notification/performance control device 140 determines the variable display mode of the symbol on the symbol display device 253 (for example, the presence or absence of a reach-to-reach effect, the content of the reach-to-reach effect, etc.) and the pattern based on various commands input from the main control device 162. The stop display mode (the type of combination of symbols to be finally stopped and displayed upon completion of the variable display) is determined.

Here, the structure related to the fluctuating display of symbols in each game round and the contents of the fluctuating display will be explained. In addition, in the following description, FIGS. 15 and 16 will be referred to as appropriate. 15 and 16 are schematic diagrams for explaining the display contents on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253.

The display control device 410 is provided with a character ROM. The character ROM contains data for nine types of main symbols numbered from "1" to "9" (see Figures 15(a) to (i)) and data for sub-symbols that are not numbered. (see FIG. 15(j)) is stored in advance.

As shown in FIG. 16(a), three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 are set on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253: an upper row, a middle row, and a lower row. Each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is composed of main symbols and sub-symbols arranged in a predetermined order. Then, on the display screen 253a, the symbols in each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed in a cyclically scrolling manner in a predetermined direction (specifically, from right to left).

In the upper symbol row Z1, nine types of main symbols from "1" to "9" are arranged in descending numerical order, and one sub-symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols from "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending numerical order, and one sub-symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In other words, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol row Z2, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending order of numbers, and between the main symbol "9" and the main symbol "1". A main symbol of "4" is additionally arranged on the top, and one sub-symbol is arranged between each of these main symbols. That is, only in the middle symbol row Z2, 10 main symbols are arranged and it is composed of 20 symbols.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 16(b), the display screen 253a is configured such that three symbols are displayed in a stopped state for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of nine symbols (3×3) are displayed in a stopped state. It is supposed to be done. Further, five effective lines are set on the display screen 253a, namely, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a lower right line L4, and an upper right line L5. Then, the variable display stops in the order of upper symbol row Z1 → lower symbol row Z3 → middle symbol row Z2, and a predetermined combination of symbols (for example, a combination of symbols with the same number) is formed on any active line. When the variable display of all symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is completed in this state, a jackpot video is displayed as a normal jackpot result or a variable probability jackpot result.

In addition, considering that the variable display of each symbol row is stopped as described above, the upper symbol row Z1 is the first symbol row (or the first symbol row), and the lower symbol row Z3 is the second symbol row (or the first symbol row). 2 symbol row), and the middle symbol row Z2 can be referred to as a third symbol row (or third symbol row).

Among the above main symbols, the main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to "specific symbols", and when a probability variable jackpot result occurs, for example, the same specific symbol The combination will be stopped and displayed. In addition, the main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to "non-specific symbols", and when a jackpot result usually occurs, for example, a combination of the same non-specific symbols is displayed in a stopped state. be done.

Note that the manner in which the symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the symbol display device 253 is not limited to the above-mentioned one and may be arbitrary, such as the number of symbol rows, the direction in which the symbols are displayed in a fluctuating manner in the symbol rows, the number of symbols in each symbol row, etc. can be changed as appropriate. For example, a plurality of symbol rows may be set to be arranged horizontally, and the direction of the variable display of the symbols in the symbol row may be set to be vertical.

On the display screen 253a, a pending display area NE is set in the lower part of the variable display area ME, which includes a variable display area for the upper symbol row, a variable display area for the middle symbol, and a variable display region for the lower symbol. ing. The hold display area NE is divided into unit hold display areas Da1 to Da8 of the same number as the maximum hold number (maximum hold number) when game balls enter the actuating ports 83a and 83b so as to be lined up in the left and right direction. A pending number display area Da is provided.

Specifically, the maximum number of game balls to be held (maximum number of held) when the ball enters the upper operating port 83a is 4, and the maximum number of held balls (maximum number of held) when the game ball enters the lower operating port 83b. There are 4 pieces. Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, a total of eight pieces of reservation information are stored in the order of winnings to the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b. Correspondingly, the pending number display area Da includes a first unit pending display area Da1, a second unit pending display area Da2, a third unit pending display area Da3, a fourth unit pending display area Da4, and a fifth unit pending display area. Area Da5, sixth unit pending display area Da6, seventh unit pending display area Da7, and eighth unit pending display area Da8 are set. A hold icon MP is displayed in these unit hold display areas as a predetermined hold display image.

For example, if the number of reservations (the number of reservations) is 0 at the time when the game ball enters the operating holes 83a and 83b, that is, if the number of reservations becomes 1 due to this winning, only the first unit reservation display area Da1 A pending icon MP is displayed. When the number of balls on hold becomes four due to game balls entering the operating ports 83a and 83b, a hold icon MP is displayed in the first unit hold display area Da1 to the fourth unit hold display area Da4. It has become. Note that FIG. 16(b) illustrates a case where the number of pending items is three.

In addition, in the hold display area NE, hold icons MP corresponding to the game rounds to be executed (currently being executed) are displayed side by side with the hold number display area Da (more specifically, the first unit hold display area Da1). An execution target display area Db to be displayed is provided. In this embodiment, the execution target display area Db is arranged on the left side of the pending number display area Da, but the positional relationship between these areas is arbitrary. For example, the execution target display area Db may be arranged on the right side of the pending number display area Da.

When a game round ends and you move on to the next game round, the hold icon MP displayed in the hold number display area Da (more specifically, the first unit hold display area Da1) shifts to the execution target display area Db ( (move). If there are other pending icons MP being displayed in the pending number display area Da, those pending icons MP are displayed in the (adjacent) unit pending display area closer to the execution target display area Db in conjunction with the shift. Shift to. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the side closer to the execution target display area Db will be referred to as the "downstream side", and the side opposite to the execution target display area Db will be referred to as the "upstream side".

(About various counters)
Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be explained.

During the game, the MPU 402 uses various counter information to perform jackpot lottery, settings for the display on the main display unit 87 (main display section), settings for the symbol display on the symbol display device 253, etc. Specifically, As shown in FIG. 17, the winning random number counter C1 used in the lottery when a jackpot occurs, the winning type counter C2 used when determining the jackpot type such as a variable jackpot result or a normal jackpot result, and the symbol display device 253 are removed. Changes in the reach random number counter C3 used for the reach random number lottery when fluctuations occur, the random number initial value counter CINI used to set the initial value of the hit random number counter C1, the operating opening display section of the main display unit 87, and the symbol display device 253 A variation type counter CS is used to determine the display time. Furthermore, an electric accessory release counter C4 is used to determine whether or not the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b should be placed in the electric role release state.

Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 is a loop counter in which 1 is added to the previous value each time the counter is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a lottery counter buffer 431 set in a predetermined area of the RAM 404. The RAM 404 is provided with a holding ball storage area 432 consisting of an actuating mouth holding area RE, an execution area AE, and a storage area for the total number of balls held. Then, in this reserved ball storage area 432, the values of the hit random number counter C1, the hit type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 are displayed in chronological order according to the winning history of game balls entered into the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b. It is stored as follows.

In detail about each counter, the winning random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, the winning random number counter C1 is sequentially incremented by 1 within the range of 0 to 599, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 599). In particular, when the winning random number counter C1 completes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the winning random number counter C1. Note that the random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the winning random number counter C1 (value=0 to 599). The winning random number counter C1 is updated regularly, and is stored in the operating port holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 432 at the timing when a game ball wins in the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b.

The value of the random number that results in a jackpot is stored as a win/fail table (win/fail information group) in a win/fail table storage area 421 as a win/fail information group storage means in the ROM 403. As the validity table, a validity table for low probability mode (low probability validity information group) and a validity table for high probability mode (high probability validity information group) are set. That is, in this pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery modes in the win/fail lottery means.

In the game state where the win/fail table for the low probability mode (FIG. 18(a)) is referred to in the above-mentioned lottery, the random number values (i.e., winning information) that result in a jackpot win are "7" and "307". , "507". In other words, among the values of the winning random number counter C1 from "0 to 599", "7", "307", and "507" correspond to jackpot results, and the values other than these random numbers correspond to miss results. . As a result, the jackpot probability is 1/200.

In the game state where the high probability mode win/fail table (FIG. 18(b)) is referred to in the above lottery, the random number values (i.e., winning information) that result in a jackpot win are "7" and "36". , "107", "307"... "407", "507". There are 30 pieces of "598". That is, among the values of the winning random number counter C1 from "0 to 599", "7", "36", "107", "307", . . . "407", "507"... "598" corresponds to a jackpot result, and values other than those random numbers correspond to a miss result. As a result, the jackpot probability is approximately 1/20.

Incidentally, as long as the winning probability is higher in the high probability mode than in the low probability mode, the number and value of the random numbers that result in the winning are arbitrary.

The winning type counter C2 is configured to be incremented by 1 within the range of 0 to 29, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 29). Here, in this embodiment, a plurality of jackpot results are set. These multiple jackpot results are based on three conditions: (1) support mode by the electric accessory 91 after the opening/closing execution mode ends, (2) lottery mode after the opening/closing execution mode ends, and (3) opening/closing mode during the opening/closing execution mode. There are differences between the two.

As for the support mode of the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b, when compared in a situation where the game ball continues to be launched in the same manner to the game area PE, the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b A low frequency support mode (low frequency support state or low frequency guide state) and a high frequency support mode (high frequency support state or high frequency guide state) are selected so that the frequency of opening state per unit time is relatively high or low. ) and are set.

Specifically, in the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the electric role opening state in the electric role-playing object opening lottery using the electric role-playing object opening counter C4 is the same, but the high-frequency support mode In the support mode, the number of times the electric accessory 91 becomes open when the electric role open state is won is set to be greater than that in the low-frequency support mode, and the opening time for one time is also set to be longer. In this case, in the case where the electric accessory open state is won in the high frequency support mode and the electric accessory 91 is opened multiple times, the closed state after one open state ends until the next open state starts. The time is set shorter than the opening time of one time. Furthermore, in the high-frequency support mode, the minimum secured time between one electric accessory lottery and the next electric accessory lottery is set shorter than the low-frequency support mode. has been done.

As described above, in the high-frequency support mode, the probability that a prize will be won in the lower operating port 83b is higher than in the low-frequency support mode. In other words, in the low-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the upper operating port 83a is higher than that of the lower operating port 83b, but in the high-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the lower operating port 83b is higher than that of the upper operating port 83a. The probability of winning a prize increases. When a winning occurs in the lower operating port 83b, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out, so in the high-frequency support mode, the player plays the game while trying not to reduce the number of balls he has too much. be able to.

Note that the configuration for making the high-frequency support mode more frequently open to the electric utility role per unit time than the low-frequency support mode is not limited to the above, and may include, for example, a lottery for opening electric utility objects. It may be configured to increase the probability of winning the electric combination open state in . Furthermore, the high-frequency support mode and the low-frequency support mode may be set by differentiating any one condition or any combination of the number of times, opening time, and winning probability.

The winning type counter C2 is updated regularly, and the game ball is stored in the operating port holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 432 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b.

The distribution destinations of game results for the winning type counter C2 are stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in a distribution table storage area 422 serving as a distribution information group storage means in the ROM 403. Here, the contents of the distribution table will be explained using the schematic diagram of FIG. 19. The distribution table includes a distribution table for the upper operating port (first distribution information group) shown in FIG. 19(a), and a distribution table for the lower operating port (second distribution information group) shown in FIG. 19(b). minute information group) is set.

In the distribution table for the upper operation opening, 8R probability variable jackpot result A, 8R probability variation jackpot result B, and 8R normal jackpot result are set as destinations to which game results are distributed. Specifically, in the distribution table for the upper operating opening, among the values of the winning type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 8" correspond to the 8R probability variable jackpot result A, and "9 to 29" correspond to the 8R probability variable jackpot result A, 14" corresponds to the 8R definite variable jackpot result B, and "15 to 29" correspond to the 8R normal jackpot result.

In the distribution table for the lower operation opening, 16R probability variable jackpot result, 8R probability variation jackpot result A, 8R probability variation jackpot result B, and 16 normal jackpot result are set as destinations to which game results are distributed. Specifically, in the distribution table for the lower operating opening, among the values of the hit type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 4" correspond to the 16R probability variable jackpot result, and "5 to 9" correspond to the 16R probability variable jackpot result. ” corresponds to the 8R probability variable jackpot result A, “10 to 14” corresponds to the 8R probability variation jackpot result B, and “15 to 29” correspond to the 16R normal jackpot result.

The 16R probability variable jackpot result, 8R probability variable jackpot result A, and 8R probability variable jackpot result B are jackpot results in which the lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening/closing execution mode ends. The normal gaming state that is transitioned to due to these jackpot results continues until the next jackpot result (see FIG. 19(c)).

On the other hand, the 8R normal jackpot result or the 16R normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the lottery mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening/closing execution mode ends. Regarding the normal gaming state that is triggered by these jackpot results, if the number of games played after the transition to the normal gaming state reaches the end standard number of times (specifically, 100 times), or the said end standard number of times If the jackpot result is reached before reaching the jackpot (more specifically, if the opening/closing execution mode is started), the process ends (see FIG. 19(c)).

In the following explanation, the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode and low probability mode is the "first normal gaming state", the normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode and low probability mode is the "second normal gaming state", and the normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode and low probability mode is the "second normal gaming state". The normal gaming state corresponding to the frequency support mode and high probability mode is called a "third normal gaming state" and is appropriately distinguished.

Next, with reference to FIG. 20, a supplementary explanation will be given of the opening/closing manner of the variable prize winning device 82 in the opening/closing execution mode. In this embodiment, in order to suppress monotony of the game during the opening/closing execution mode, the opening/closing manner of the variable winning device 82 is configured to differ depending on the jackpot result. Specifically, for the 16R fixed variable jackpot result, 8R fixed variable jackpot result A, 16R normal jackpot result, and 8R normal jackpot result, "30 sec" is set as the maximum opening time of each round, and "2 sec" is set as the interval time between rounds. " is set. On the other hand, 8R variable jackpot result B is similar to other jackpot results in that "30eec" is set as the maximum opening time of each round, but "2sec" and "5sec" are set as the interval time. The difference is that the configuration is set.

As already explained, the firing cycle when the game balls are continuously fired to the right route is 0.6 seconds. The time required for the game ball that has reached the variable winning device 82 to roll on the opening/closing body 82b and pass above the big winning opening 82a is approximately 2 seconds. Therefore, when the interval time is "2 seconds", even if the game balls are continued to be fired, most of them will win in the variable winning device 82. In other words, even if the player does not stop firing the game balls at the end of the round, the balls are prevented from being wasted.

On the other hand, when the interval time is "5 seconds", if the firing of game balls is continued, the number of game balls that do not win in the variable winning device 82 and head toward the out port 89 increases. In other words, by stopping the firing of game balls at the timing of the end of the round, it is possible to intervene technologically to suppress wasteful consumption of the balls.

Here, in the 8R probability variable jackpot result B, the round (specific round) in which "5 sec" is set as the interval time is different depending on the value of the winning type counter C2. For example, if the value of the winning type counter C2 is "9", "5 seconds" is set in the third and fourth rounds, and if it is "10", "5 seconds" is set in the third and fifth rounds. 5sec" is set, in the case of "11", "5sec" is set in the 3rd and 6th rounds, and in the case of "12", "5sec" is set in the 3rd and 7th rounds. In the case of "13", "5 seconds" is set in the third and eighth rounds, and in the case of "14", "5 seconds" is set in the third round.

In this way, by diversifying the opening/closing manner during the opening/closing execution mode, a configuration is realized that suppresses monotony of the game during the opening/closing execution mode and encourages attention to the variable prize winning device 82 during the opening/closing execution mode. ing.

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to increment sequentially by 1 within the range of 0 to 238, for example, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (ie, 238). The reach random number counter C3 is updated regularly, and is stored in the operation opening holding area RE of the holding ball storage area 432 at the timing when the game ball enters the upper operating opening 83a or the lower operating opening 83b. Then, it is decided whether or not to generate a reach based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 403.

However, in the game round that shifts to the opening/closing execution mode, the MPU 402 determines the occurrence of a reach regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3. The number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display is the same in each gaming state, but may be set individually depending on the gaming state. For example, when the support mode is the high-frequency support mode, the number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display may be set to be larger than in the low-frequency support mode.

Here, the ready-to-reach display (ready-to-reach state) is equipped with a symbol display device 253 (display screen 253a) that can perform variable display (or variable display) of symbols (pictures), and the game results are displayed in a manner compatible with the opening/closing execution mode. In a gaming machine where a stop display result after a variable display can become a special display result in a game round that resulted in a game result, the stop display result is displayed after the start of the variable display (or variable display) of symbols (pictures) on the symbol display device 253. This refers to a display state that is used to make the player think that the variable display state is likely to result in the special display result before being derived and displayed.

In other words, by stopping and displaying the symbols for some of the plurality of symbol columns displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, a combination of symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the opening/closing execution mode is established. This is a display state in which possible combinations of ready-to-win symbols are displayed, and in that state, symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the remaining symbol rows.

More specifically, as a step before ending the fluctuating display of symbols, a combination of symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the opening/closing execution mode is established on a preset valid line on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253. A ready-to-reach line is formed by stopping and displaying possible combinations of ready-to-reach symbols, and symbols are fluctuated and displayed by a final stopped symbol sequence under the situation where the ready-to-reach line is formed.

To explain in more detail the display contents on the display screen 253a, first, when the fluctuating display of symbols is finished in the upper symbol row Z1, and furthermore, when the fluctuating display of symbols is finished in the lower symbol row Z3, if any of the active lines is hit. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the main symbols with numbers that make up the combination of symbols, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a fluctuating display of symbols is performed in the middle symbol row Z2. This will display the reach. When a jackpot occurs, the main symbols forming the reach line and the main symbols with numbers forming the combination of winning symbols are stopped and displayed on the reach line, and the symbols in the middle symbol row Z2 are changed. Display ends.

In addition, in the reach display, while displaying the combination of reach symbols as described above, the remaining symbol rows display fluctuating symbols, and the background screen displays a predetermined character etc. as a moving image. These include those that perform a reach effect, and those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen 253a after reducing or not displaying a combination of ready-to-reach symbols. In addition, when the reach display is being performed or before the reach display, it is determined whether or not to display a preview using a predetermined image such as a predetermined character using the reach random number counter C3 or other counters. It's okay.

The variation type counter CS is configured to be incremented by 1 in sequence within the range of 0 to 198, for example, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The variation type counter CS determines, in the MPU 402, the variation display time in the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section of the main display unit 87 (main display section) and the variable display time of the symbol in the symbol display device 253. It is used in The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process (described later) is executed once, and is repeatedly updated within the remaining time within the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when determining the variation pattern at the start of the variation display on the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section and at the start of symbol variation by the symbol display device 253.

For example, the electric accessory release counter C4 is configured such that it is sequentially incremented by 1 within the range of 0 to 250, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 250). The electric accessory opening counter C4 is updated regularly and is stored in the electric role holding area 433 of the RAM 404 at the timing when a game ball enters the through gate 84. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to control the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b to the open state based on the stored value of the electric accessory opening counter C4. For example, if C4=0 to 190, the electric accessory 91 is controlled to be in the open state, and if C4=191 to 250, the electric accessory 91 is not controlled to be in the open state.

As already explained, the MPU 402 uses at least the buffer value of the variation type counter CS to determine the variable display time in the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section. A variable display time table storage area 423 is used. In addition, the MPU 402 determines the stop result in the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section using the value of the winning random number counter C1 and the value of the winning type counter C2 stored in the execution area AE. However, the stop result table storage area 424 of the ROM 403 is used for this determination.

(About various processes executed by the main controller 162)
Next, the timer interrupt processing and normal processing executed by the MPU 402 in the main control device 162 to advance the game in each game round will be explained. In addition to the above-mentioned timer interrupt processing and normal processing, the MPU 402 executes main processing that is started when the power is turned on, and NMI interrupt processing that is started when a power failure signal is input to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal). , description of these various processes will be omitted.

(timer interrupt processing)
First, timer interrupt processing will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. This process is started by the MPU 402 periodically (eg, every 2 msec).

In step S101, reading processing for various ball entry detection sensors (for example, the detection sensors 391a to 391f described above) is executed. That is, the state of various ball entry detection sensors connected to the main control device 162 is read, the state of the ball entry detection sensor is determined, and detection information (winning detection information) is saved.

Thereafter, in step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 404.

In the following step S103, the winning random number counter C1, the winning type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory opening counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the win random number counter C1, the win type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1, and when these counter values reach the maximum value, they are each cleared to 0. Then, the updated values of each counter C1 to C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 404.

In the following step S104, a winning process for a through prize is executed in conjunction with a winning to the through gate 84. In the winning process for through gates, it is determined whether or not the winning detection flag for through gates is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404, and if the flag is stored, it is stored in the power reserve area 433. On the condition that the stored accessory storage number is less than 4, the value of the electric accessory opening counter C4 updated in step S103 is stored in the electric accessory holding area. If the winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage area 435, the winning detection flag is deleted and the winning processing for the through gate ends.

After executing the winning process for the through gate in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105, in which the winning process for the actuating opening associated with winning to the actuating ports 83a and 83b is executed, and this timer interrupt process ends. do.

(Winning process for actuation port)
Here, with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 22 and 23, the winning process for the actuated opening will be described.

In step S201, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a (winning). If it is determined that the game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a, the process advances to step S202, and a prize ball command is set for causing the payout control device 242 to pay out three game balls.

In the subsequent step S203, an external signal setting process is performed to output information indicating that a game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC recognizes that the ball has entered the upper operating port 83a. After that, in step S204, information acquisition processing is performed to store each value of the winning random number counter C1, winning type counter C2, etc., and the main prize winning processing is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the game ball has not entered the upper operating port 83a, the process advances to step S205. In step S205, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the lower operating port 83b (winning). If it is determined that the game ball has entered the lower operating port 83b, the process advances to step S206, and a prize ball command is set for causing the payout control device 242 to pay out four game balls. The prize ball command set in steps S202 and S206 is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in external output processing S401 of the normal processing described later.

In the subsequent step S207, an external signal setting process is performed to output information indicating that a game ball has entered the lower operating port 83b to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC recognizes that the ball has entered the lower operating port 83b. Thereafter, information acquisition processing is performed in step S204, and the main winning processing ends.

Note that if a negative determination is made in both steps S201 and S205, that is, if there is no ball entering either the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b, the main winning processing is directly ended.

Here, the information acquisition process in step S204 will be described with reference to FIG. 23.

(Information acquisition processing)
In the information acquisition process, first, in step S301, the operation pending memory number N stored in the pending number storage area of the pending ball storage area 432, specifically, the trigger for the information acquisition process among the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b. It is determined whether or not the operation pending memory number N related to the ball entry section is less than the upper limit value ("4" in this embodiment). If the operation reservation memory number N is the upper limit value, this information acquisition process is directly terminated, and if it is less than the upper limit value, the operation reservation memory number N of the corresponding operation port is incremented by 1 in step S302. In step S303, the total number of reservations (hereinafter referred to as common reservation number CRN) stored in the reservation number storage area is incremented by one.

In the subsequent step S304, the values of the hit random number counter C1, the hit type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the fluctuation type counter CS updated in the above step S103 are updated to the first value of the free storage area of the actuating opening holding area RE. , that is, the storage area corresponding to the common reservation number CRN incremented by 1 in step S302. After executing the storage process, the process advances to step S305.

In the following steps S305 and S306, the notification/performance control device 140 and the display control device 410, which are sub-side (auxiliary) control devices, are made to recognize that a winning has occurred in the operating ports 83a and 83b, and the corresponding game is played. Before the start of the game, a confirmation process for a pending preview and a process for setting a pending notice, which are processes for executing a preview effect (pending notice), are executed, and the information acquisition process is ended. Note that the hold command includes information as to which of the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b the winning is based on.

The hold command set in the hold command setting process of step S307 will be transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 and the display control device 410 in the external output process (step S401) of the normal process described later.

(normal processing)
Next, the flow of normal processing will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 24. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is activated upon power-on is executed, and the main process of the game is executed in the normal process. As an overview, the processing in steps S401 to S406 is executed as a periodic process with a period of 4 msec, and the counter update processing in steps S408 and S409 is executed in the remaining time.

In normal processing, first, in step S401, external signal output processing is executed. In the external signal output process of step S401, output data such as commands set in the timer interrupt process or the previous normal process is transmitted to each sub-side control device and the hall computer HC.

Specifically, the presence or absence of a prize ball command is determined, and if a prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 242. In addition, if various commands such as production commands such as a variation start command, type command, and variation end command, a hold command, and a shift command to be described later are set, they are transmitted to the notification/production control device 140. .

Further, details will be described later, but for example, every time the fluctuating display of the symbol ends on the operating port display section of the main display section, an external signal indicating symbol confirmation is output to the hall computer HC, and during the opening/closing execution mode, It outputs an external signal indicating that it is in the execution mode to the hall computer HC, and when it is in the high-frequency support mode, outputs an external signal indicating that it is in the high-frequency support mode to the hall computer HC.

Next, in step S402, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the variation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, the counter value is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 404.

In the subsequent step S403, a game round control process for controlling the game in each game round is executed. In this game round control process, jackpot determination, setting of variable display of symbols by the symbol display device 253, display control of the main display unit 87, etc. are performed.

After executing the game time control process in step S403, the process advances to step S404, and a game state transition process is executed. Although details will be described later, this gaming state transition process causes the gaming state to shift to an opening/closing execution mode, a high probability mode, a high frequency support mode, or the like. The details of the gaming cycle control process in step S403 and the gaming state transition process in step S404 will be described later.

In the subsequent step S405, an electric utility support process for driving and controlling the electric accessory 91 attached to the lower operating port 83b is executed. In this electric role support process, the electric role release is determined whether or not the electric role object 91 is to be in an open state using the numerical information acquired from the electric role model release counter C4 stored in the electric role holding area 433 of the RAM 404. A lottery is held, and when the electric accessory open state is won, opening/closing processing of the electric accessory 91 is executed. It also controls the display of the through-gate display section in the main display section so as to teach the lottery results of the power lottery.

As already explained, a low-frequency support mode and a high-frequency support mode are set as modes of support by the electric accessory 91, and transition to either support mode is performed in the game state transition process. After this process, if the high-frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404, the mode becomes high-frequency support mode, and if the flag is not set, the mode becomes low-frequency support mode.

In the electric support support process, it is determined whether or not the high frequency support mode is set by determining whether the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. In the case of the high-frequency support mode, the number of times the electric accessory 91 will be in the open state when the electric role open state is won is set to be greater than in the case of the low-frequency support mode. Set the opening time to be longer. In addition, in the case of the high-frequency support mode, if the electric role opening state is won and the electric role opening state occurs multiple times, the next opening state will start after one opening state ends. The closing time is set to be shorter than the opening time.

Incidentally, when transitioning to the opening/closing execution mode, even if the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404, the support mode is forcibly set to the low frequency support mode.

After that, in step S406, a game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid of the game ball launch mechanism 110 is activated once every predetermined launch interval (for example, 0.6 sec) on the condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power supply/launch control device 243. Excite. As a result, the game ball is launched toward the game area PE.

In the following step S407, it is determined whether the execution timing of the next normal process has arrived, that is, whether one cycle (4 msec in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the previous normal process. Then, within the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated.

That is, in step S408, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 404. Furthermore, in step S409, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the change type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when these counter values reach the maximum value, they are cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 404.

Since the execution time of each process in steps S401 to S406 changes depending on the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant but fluctuates. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using this remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the winning random number counter C1) can be randomly updated, and similarly, The variation type counter CS can also be updated randomly.

(Game time control processing)
Next, the game time control process in step S403 will be explained with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 25 to 28.

In the game time control process, first, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 25, it is determined in step S501 whether or not the opening/closing execution mode is in progress. If it is in the opening/closing execution mode, the main game round is continued without executing any of the processes after step S502, that is, the game round start processing of steps S503 to S505 and the game round progression process of steps S506 to S509. Control processing ends.

If the opening/closing execution mode is not in progress, it is determined in step S502 whether or not a game is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether the operating port display section of the main display unit 87 is displaying a variable display or a fixed display. If the game is not in progress, the process advances to steps S503 to S505 for starting the game. In the process for starting a game round, first, in step S503, it is determined whether the total number of starting reservation balls (common reservation number CRN) is "0" or not. When the common reservation number CRN is “0”, it means that no reservation information is stored in the reservation ball storage area 432. Therefore, the main game round control process is ended as it is.

On the other hand, if the common reservation number CRN is not "0", in step S504, a data setting process is performed to set the data stored in the operation mouth reservation area RE of the reservation ball storage area 432 for variable display. After executing the variation start process for starting the variable display of the operating port display section in the main display unit 87 and the variable display of the symbol display device 253 in step S505, the present game round control process is ended. .

Here, the data setting process in step S504 and the fluctuation start process in step S505 will be explained in detail. First, the data setting process in step S504 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 26.

(Data setting processing)
In the data setting process, first in step S601, among the active pending storage numbers N stored in the pending number storage area FE, the one targeted for the current setting process and the common pending number CRN are decremented by one. In the following step S602, the data (oldest data) stored in the first area of the actuating mouth reservation area RE is moved to the execution area AE as data for the game round to be executed this time. Thereafter, in step S603, the data stored in the second area to the eighth area are sequentially shifted to the lower area side. In other words, as the data in the first area moves to the execution area AE, the data moves from the second area to the first area, from the third area to the second area, from the fourth area to the third area, from the fifth area to the fourth area, The data in each area is shifted in the following order: 6th area → 5th area, 7th area → 6th area, 8th area → 7th area, and so on.

In the subsequent step S604, a shift command is set which is information for making the notification/performance control device 140 recognize that the data in the actuating mouth holding area RE has been shifted. After that, this data setting process ends. The shift command set in step S604 is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). This shift command is then transmitted to the display control device 410 via the notification/effect control device 140.

(Fluctuation start processing)
Next, the fluctuation start process in step S505 will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 27.

In the variation start process, first in step S701, a validity determination process is executed to determine whether the pending information referred to in the current variation start process corresponds to a jackpot win. Specifically, among the information stored in the execution area AE, information for jackpot determination, that is, information acquired from the information updated by the hit random number counter C1 is grasped. When the win/fail lottery mode is the low probability mode, the obtained information is changed to the information corresponding to the jackpot by referring to the low probability mode win/fail table stored in the win/fail table storage area 421 of the ROM 403. If the win/fail lottery mode is the high probability mode, the high probability mode win/fail table stored in the win/fail table storage area 421 of the ROM 403 is referred to, and the information grasped above is determined to be a jackpot. Identify whether the information is included in the information corresponding to winning.

In the following step S702, it is determined whether or not the result of the success/failure determination process in step S701 corresponds to a jackpot win. If the result corresponds to a jackpot win, type determination processing is executed in step S703.

In the type determination process, information for type determination among the information stored in the execution area AE, that is, information acquired from the information updated by the winning type counter C2 is grasped. Further, by referring to the distribution table stored in the distribution table storage area 422 of the ROM 403, it is specified whether the information for type determination grasped above is included in the information corresponding to the probability-variable jackpot result. Specifically, if the holding information corresponds to the ball entering the upper operating port 83a, the distribution table for the upper operating port 83a is referred to, and the holding information corresponds to the ball entering the lower operating port 83b. If so, the type is determined with reference to the distribution table for the lower operating port 83b.

In the following step S704, it is determined whether the type of the current jackpot win is a variable probability jackpot result based on the information specified in the type determination process in step S703. If it is a probability variable jackpot result, a stop result setting process for a probability variable jackpot is executed in step S705, and if it is not a probability variable jackpot result, a stop result setting process for a normal jackpot is executed in step S706. Further, if it is determined in step S702 that it is not a jackpot win, then in step S707, a stop result setting process for the case of a loss is executed.

In addition, the probability variable jackpot results are roughly divided into 16R probability variation jackpot results, 8R probability variation jackpot results A, and 8R probability variation jackpot results B. In the process of step S705, in the case of the 16R probability variable jackpot result, a process of setting a stop result corresponding to the 16R probability variation jackpot result is performed, and in the case of the 8R probability variation jackpot result A, the setting process of the stop result corresponding to the 8R probability variation jackpot result A is performed. Processing is performed, and in the case of 8R probability variable jackpot result B, a process of setting a stop result corresponding to 8R probability variation jackpot result B is performed. In particular, for the 8R probability variable jackpot result B, different stopping results are set depending on the value of the winning type counter C2. Further, the normal jackpot results are roughly divided into 16R normal jackpot results and 8R normal jackpot results. In the process of step S706, in the case of a 16R normal jackpot result, a stop result setting process corresponding to the 16R normal jackpot result is performed, and in the case of an 8R normal jackpot result, a stop result setting process corresponding to the 8R normal jackpot result is performed. conduct.

In each stop result setting process from step S705 to step S707, the stop result table stored in the stop result table storage area 424 of the ROM 403 is referred to for information on the mode of the picture to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 87. The specified information is stored in the RAM 404. Further, in steps S705 and S706, information for the MPU 402 to specify that the success/failure determination result of the current game round is a probability variable jackpot result or a normal jackpot result is stored in the various flag storage areas 435 of the RAM 404. Specifically, in step S705, any one of the 16R probability variable jackpot flag, 8R probability variation jackpot A flag, and 8R probability variation jackpot B flag (more specifically, any of the 8R probability variation jackpot B1 flag to 8R probability variation jackpot B10 flag) is stored, and the step In S706, either the 16R normal jackpot flag or the 8R normal jackpot flag is stored.

After executing any of the processes in steps S705 to S707, in step S708, a variable display time setting process is executed.

(Fluctuating display time setting process)
In the variable display time setting process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 28, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not the winning lottery has been won. Specifically, it is determined whether any of the 16R probability variable jackpot flag, 8R probability variable jackpot A flag, 8R probability variable jackpot B flag, 16R normal jackpot flag, or 8R normal jackpot flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 435 of the RAM 404. judge.

If a negative determination is made in step S801, that is, if the result of the winning lottery is a losing result, the process advances to step S802. In step S802, it is determined whether or not a reach display will occur on the symbol display device 253 in the current game round. Specifically, when the value of the reach random number counter C3 stored in the execution area AE is a value corresponding to the occurrence of a reach, an affirmative determination is made in step S802 as the occurrence of the reach display. When specifying the presence or absence of a reach occurrence using the value of the reach random number counter C3, the reach determination table stored in the reach determination table storage area of the ROM 403 is referred to.

If an affirmative determination is made in either step S801 or step S802, the process advances to step S803, and the current variable display time table for reach generation stored in the variable display time table storage area 423 of the ROM 403 is referred to. The fluctuation display time information corresponding to the value of the fluctuation type counter CS is acquired, and in the subsequent step S804, the fluctuation display time information is transferred to the fluctuation display time counter area (fluctuation display time measuring means) provided in the various counter areas 434 of the RAM 404. ). After that, this setting process ends.

In other words, in this embodiment, the reach display is executed when the result of the lottery is a big hit, or when the result of the lottery is a loss and the lottery for generating reach is won. ing.

Here, the reach display includes a normal reach display (specifically, normal reach AB) and a super reach display (specifically, super reach AC) which have different variable display modes. In the variable display time table for reach occurrence, variable display time information corresponding to normal reach display and super reach display is set, and by referring to the table, variable display time information corresponding to each reach display is set. be obtained. Regarding the determination of the type of reach display, there is a table in which the type of reach display corresponds to the value of the variation type counter CS, and by referring to this table, the value of the current variation type counter CS can be determined. A corresponding reach display is determined.

In addition, more specifically, the variable display time table for reaching occurrence corresponds to the type of jackpot. Specifically, a variable display time is set so that a combination of specific symbols can be stopped and displayed in the case of a variable jackpot result, and a combination of non-specific symbols can be stopped and displayed in the case of a normal jackpot result. , a variable display time is set.

On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S802, in step S805, the value of the current variation type counter CS is determined by referring to the variation display time table for reach non-occurrence stored in the variation display time table storage area 423. The variable display time corresponding to is acquired, and the variable display time information is set in the variable display time counter area in step S806. After that, this setting process ends.

The variable display time information when a reach does not occur is set such that the larger the common reservation number CRN, the shorter the variable display time. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a configuration may be adopted that does not depend on the number of common reservation numbers CRN, and it may be set such that the smaller the number of common reservation numbers CRN, the shorter the variable display time is. . In addition, when the support mode is high-frequency support mode, a shorter variable display time is selected than when the support mode is low-frequency support mode, even when the number of pending information is the same. Although a variable display time table for generation is set, the present invention is not limited to this, and the selected variable display times may be the same, or the above relationship may be reversed. Furthermore, the above configuration may be applied to the variable display time when a reach occurs, and the variable display time that is likely to be selected and the variable display time that is difficult to be selected are different depending on when a jackpot is won and when it is a miss. It may also be a configuration. Further, a variable display time table for a variable probability jackpot, a variable display time table for a normal jackpot, a variable display time table for a missed reach, and a variable display time table for a complete miss may be set individually. As described above, the variable display time of each game round is determined using parameters such as whether or not a reach occurs, the type of reach display, the number of pending information, and the value of the change type counter CS.

Returning to the description of the fluctuation start processing (FIG. 27), after the fluctuation display time setting processing is executed in step S708, a fluctuation start command and a type command are set in step S709. The fluctuation start command includes information on whether a reach has occurred and information on the fluctuation display time. Further, the type command includes information on game results. In other words, the type command includes, as game result information, 16R probability variable jackpot result information, 8R probability variable jackpot result information A, 8R probability variable jackpot result B information, 16R normal jackpot result information, 8R normal jackpot result information, Contains information on missed results, etc.

The fluctuation start command and type command set in step S709 are transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). The notification/performance control device 140 determines the light emission pattern of the display lamp section 26 and the output pattern of the sound from the speaker section 29 for the game round based on the received variation start command and type command, and controls the output of the determined performance. The display lamp unit 26 and speaker unit 29 are controlled so that the content is executed. Further, the notification/effect control device 140 transmits the above-mentioned fluctuation start command and type command to the display control device 410 while maintaining the information format thereof. The display control device 410 determines a variable display pattern to be displayed on the symbol display device 253 for the game round based on the received variation start command and type command, and controls the symbol display device so that the determined variable display pattern is executed. Display control of 253 is performed. Thereafter, in step S710, a variable display of the picture is started on the corresponding one of the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section of the main display unit 87, and then this variation start process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of the game round control process (FIG. 25), when the main display unit 87 is in the variable display mode, the game round progression process of steps S506 to S509 is executed. In the game progress processing, first in step S506, it is determined whether or not the variable display time of the current game time has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether the value of the variable display time information stored in the variable display time counter area of the RAM 404 has become "0". As described above, the value of the variable display time information is set in the variable display time setting process (FIG. 28). Further, the value of the set variable display time information is decremented by 1 each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 21) is activated.

If the variable display time has not elapsed, a variable display process is executed in step S507. In the variable display process, the display mode on the corresponding one of the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section of the main display unit 87 is changed. After that, the main game round control process is ended.

If the fluctuation display time has elapsed, a fluctuation end process is executed in step S508. In the variation end process, the information stored in the RAM 404 in any of the processes from step S705 to step S707 is specified, and the picture corresponding to the information is displayed on the upper operating port display section and the lower operating port display section. The operating port display section is controlled so that it is displayed as stopped while at the same time.

In the following step S509, a variation end command is set. After that, the main game round control process is ended. The variation end command set in step S509 is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). The notification/effect control device 140 transmits the received variation end command to the display control device 410 while maintaining its information format. By receiving the variation end command, the display control device 410 causes the final stop symbol combination in the game round to be displayed as determined (final stop display).

(Game state transition processing)
Next, the gaming state transition process in step S404 will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 29.

In the gaming state transition process, first, in step S901, it is determined whether or not the opening/closing execution mode is in progress. If the opening/closing execution mode is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S902, and it is determined whether or not the timing has come to end the variable display of the symbols on the upper operating opening display section or the lower operating opening display section for one game round. If it is not the timing at which the variable display ends, the main game state transition process is ended as it is.

If the variable display has ended, more specifically, if a preset stop display time (interval time: fixed display time) has elapsed since the end of the variable display, the process advances to step S903; It is determined whether the game result of the current game round (the result of the above-mentioned win/fail lottery) corresponds to the transition to the opening/closing execution mode. Specifically, whether any of the following is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404: 16R probability variable jackpot flag, 8R probability variable jackpot A flag, 8R probability variable jackpot B flag, 16R normal jackpot flag, or 8R normal jackpot flag. Determine. If none of the above-mentioned flags are stored, the main game state transition process is ended as is.

If any of the above-mentioned flags is stored, the opening/closing execution mode start process is executed in step S904. Through the start process, the restriction on the operation of the variable winning device 82 by the lock device is released, and the opening/closing operation of the variable winning device 82 is allowed until the opening/closing execution mode ends. Further, in the start processing of step S904, an opening/closing execution mode start flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. The details will be described later, but as a result, output of an external signal indicating that the hall computer HC has entered the opening/closing execution mode is started.

In the following step S905, the open number counter OC provided in the various counter areas 434 of the RAM 404 is set to either "8" or "16". Specifically, when the 16R probability variable jackpot flag or the 16R normal jackpot flag is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404, the open number counter OC is set to "16", and the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404 is stored. When the 8R probability variable jackpot A flag, the 8R probability variable jackpot B flag, or the 8R normal jackpot flag is stored, "8" is set in the open number counter OC. The opening number counter OC functions as a means for grasping the number of times the variable prize winning device 82 has been opened. After executing the process in step S905, the process advances to step S506, and an opening command is set.

This set opening command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 and the display control device 410 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). The notification/performance control device 140 determines the content of the production corresponding to the opening/closing execution mode based on the received opening command, and controls various devices so that the determined content of the production is executed. The content of this performance includes the display mode on the symbol display device 253, and this determined display mode is output from the notification/performance control device 140 to the display control device 410 as a display content command. In the display control device 410, based on the opening command received from the main control device 162 and the display content command received from the notification/effect control device 140, the display control device 410 displays a display corresponding to the current opening/closing execution mode, for example, as a display content corresponding to a jackpot. The display control of the symbol display device 253 is executed so that moving images of characters, etc. are displayed, background images, etc. are switched. After executing the process of step S906, the main gaming state transition process is ended.

In addition, the opening corresponding to the 8R fixed variable jackpot result A and the opening corresponding to the 8R fixed variable jackpot result B are common, and it is necessary to identify which fixed variable jackpot result it is from the contents of the opening, etc. It is difficult to identify the detailed type of 8R probability variable jackpot result B.

Returning to the explanation of step S901, if it is determined in step S901 that the opening/closing execution mode is in progress, the process advances to step S907. In step S907, it is determined whether the waiting time for opening has elapsed. If the waiting time for opening has not elapsed, the main game state transition process is ended. If the waiting time for opening has elapsed, a big winning opening opening/closing process is executed in step S908.

In the grand prize opening/closing process, first, it is determined whether or not the grand prize opening of the variable winning device 82 is open. Specifically, this determination is made based on the driving state of the variable prize winning drive section of the variable winning prize device 82. If the big prize opening is not open, it is determined whether the value of the open number counter OC is "0" or not. If the value of the opening number counter OC is "0", the main prize opening opening/closing process is immediately terminated.

If the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", it is determined whether the value of the open timer counter TC is "0". The open timer counter TC is a counter that is referenced when grasping the opening time and closing time (interval time) of the big prize opening, and its value is set to "1" every time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 21) is executed. It is subtracted by one by one. If the value of the open timer counter TC is not "0", the main prize opening opening/closing process is ended.

When the value of the opening number counter OC is not "0" and the value of the opening timer counter TC is "0", the process of opening the big winning opening is executed. Specifically, the variable winning a prize driving section is brought into a driving state in order to open the big winning a prize opening. Thereafter, a closing condition setting process (opening setting process) corresponding to the variable winning device 82 (big winning opening) is performed. Specifically, the open timer counter TC is set to "15000" (equivalent to 30 seconds), and the winning counter PC is set to "10". After executing this setting process, an open command indicating that the variable winning device 82 (big winning hole) has been opened is set, and the main winning hole opening/closing process is ended. This set release command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). The notification/performance control device 140 determines the content of the production corresponding to the release based on receiving the release command, and controls various devices so that the determined content of the production is executed.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the big winning hole of the variable winning device 82 is being opened, it is determined whether the value of the opening timer counter TC is "0" or not. If the value of the open timer counter TC is not "0", it is determined whether or not a game ball has won in the big winning hole based on the detection signal from the ball entering detection sensor 391c corresponding to the variable winning device 82. If no prize has been won, the main prize opening/closing process is immediately ended.

If a winning has occurred, output processing of the winning command is executed. The winning command is output to the payout control device 242 and the notification/performance control device 140. The payout control device 242 performs a process of paying out a preset number of game balls based on receiving the winning command. In the notification/performance control device 140, when a winning command is issued during the opening/closing execution mode, a process for changing the performance during the opening/closing execution mode, which is executed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, is executed to notify the winning. conduct.

After executing the command output process, the value of the winning counter PC is decremented by 1, and then it is determined whether the value of the winning counter PC is "0" or not. If it is not "0", the main winning hole is directly opened. Finish the opening/closing process. When the value of the winning counter PC is "0", or when it is determined that the value of the open timer counter TC is "0", it means that the big winning opening closing condition is satisfied. In this case, the variable winning a prize driving section is brought into a non-driving state in order to close the big winning a prize opening.

Subsequently, update processing of the open number counter OC is executed. Specifically, if the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", the open number counter OC is decremented by 1, and if the value of the open number counter OC is "0", the open number counter OC is decremented by 1. The value of is maintained at "0". Thereafter, it is determined whether the updated value of the open number counter OC is "0".
If it is determined that the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", set the open timer counter TC to "1000" (equivalent to 2 seconds) or "2500" (equivalent to 5 seconds), and set the close command. , the main prize opening opening/closing process ends. This set closing command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). When the notification/performance control device 140 receives a closing command, it determines the content of the production corresponding to the closure command, and controls various devices so that the determined content of the production is executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the value of the open number counter is "0", ending start processing is executed. In the start processing, an ending standby time for waiting without starting the next game round is set for the ending of the opening/closing execution mode. Specifically, the waiting time information for the ending, which is stored in advance in the ROM 403, is set in the waiting time counter area provided in the various counter areas 434 of the RAM 404.

After that, after setting the ending command, the main prize opening opening/closing process ends. This set ending command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24).

Returning to the explanation of the gaming state transition process (FIG. 29), after executing the big winning opening opening/closing process in step S908, it is determined in step S909 whether or not the value of the open number counter OC is "0", and step In S910, it is determined whether the waiting time for ending has elapsed. If the value of the open number counter OC is not "0" or if the waiting time for ending has not elapsed, the main game state transition process is ended. On the other hand, if the value of the open number counter OC is "0" and the waiting time for ending has elapsed, in step S911, transition processing at the end of the opening/closing execution mode is executed.

In the transition process at the end of the opening/closing execution mode, first check whether the jackpot result that triggered the current opening/closing execution mode is one of the 16R probability variable jackpot result, 8R probability variation jackpot result A, and 8R probability variation jackpot result B. judge. Specifically, it is determined whether a 16R probability variable jackpot flag, an 8R probability variation jackpot A flag, and an 8R probability variation jackpot B flag are stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404.

When the jackpot result that triggered the current opening/closing execution mode is a 16R probability variable jackpot result, 8R probability variable jackpot result A, or 8R probability variable jackpot result B, the flag related to the transition of the game state is erased. After executing the erasing process, a game state setting process is executed. Specifically, first, a high probability mode flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. Based on the high probability mode flag set in this way, the winning/losing table for the high probability mode will be referred to in the winning/losing lottery in subsequent game rounds.

Thereafter, a high frequency support mode flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. Based on the high-frequency support mode flag set in this way, the success/failure table for the high-frequency support mode is referred to in the support lottery in the subsequent power support processing, and the fluctuation display time of the symbols at the support lottery is This is shortened (specifically set to 2.0 seconds), and furthermore, the period in which the open state is maintained by one opening is extended (specifically set to 5.0 seconds).

On the other hand, if the jackpot result that triggered the current opening/closing execution mode is the 16R normal jackpot result or the 8R normal jackpot result, that is, the 16R normal jackpot flag or the 8R normal jackpot flag is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. If so, erase the flag related to the transition of the gaming state. After executing the erasing process, a game state setting process is executed. Specifically, first, a high frequency support mode flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. Based on the high-frequency support mode flag set in this way, the success/failure table for the high-frequency support mode is referred to in the support lottery in the subsequent power support processing, and the fluctuation display time of the symbols at the support lottery is This is shortened (specifically set to 2.0 seconds), and furthermore, the period in which the open state is maintained by one opening is extended (specifically set to 5.0 seconds).

Unlike the above-mentioned case of variable probability jackpot results, an upper limit is set on the number of times of support in the high-frequency support mode that shifts after the normal jackpot result. Specifically, the game number counter stored in the various counter areas 434 of the RAM 404 is set to "100". As a result, the high-frequency support mode will be maintained until the 100th game has been played after the opening/closing execution mode ends, and once the game reaches "100", the high-frequency support mode will be shifted to the low-frequency support mode. .

After the gaming state setting processing is performed, in step S912, an opening/closing execution mode end flag is set in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404, and the transition processing at the end of the main opening/closing execution mode is ended. Although details will be described later, by executing the process of step S512, the output of the external signal corresponding to the jackpot will be stopped.

(Regarding the electrical configuration of the notification/effect control device 140 and display control device 410)
Next, with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 30, a supplementary explanation will be given of the electrical configuration of the notification/effect control device 140 and the display control device 410.

An MPU 442 is mounted on a notification/performance control board 441 provided in the notification/performance control device 140. The MPU 442 includes a ROM 443 that stores various control programs and fixed value data to be executed by the MPU 442, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when executing the control programs stored in the ROM 443. A certain RAM 444 and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data input/output circuit are built-in. Note that it is not essential that the ROM 443 and RAM 444 are integrated into one chip for the MPU 442, and each may be integrated into separate chips. This also applies to the MPUs of other control devices.

The MPU 442 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A main control device 162 is connected to the input side of the MPU 442, and receives game time control commands (game time control information) such as the above-mentioned fluctuation start command, type command, and fluctuation end command from the main control device 162. . It also receives hold display control commands (hold display control information) such as shift commands and hold commands, as well as opening/closing execution mode commands (opening/closing execution mode information) such as opening commands and ending commands.

As already explained, on the output side of the MPU 442, the display lamp sections 26 to 28 and the speaker section 29 provided on the front door frame 14, the first movable presentation device 300, the second movable presentation device 380, and the display control device 410 are provided on the output side of the MPU 442. is connected. Some of the various commands input from the main control device 162 to the notification/effect control device 140 are transmitted to the display control device 410 while maintaining the information format as is.

The display control device 410 includes a display control board 471 on which an MPU 472, which is an element in which a program ROM 473 and a work RAM 474 are combined into chips, a video display processor (VDP) 475, a character ROM 476, and a video RAM 477 are mounted. It is equipped with Note that it is not essential that the program ROM 473 and work RAM 474 are integrated into one chip for the MPU 472, and each may be integrated into separate chips.

The MPU 472 of the display control device 410 analyzes various commands received from the main control device 162 via the notification/effect control device 140, or performs predetermined arithmetic processing based on the received various commands to control the VDP 475 (specifically (generation of internal commands for the VDP 475). More specifically, the MPU 472 executes a process for specifying a variable display pattern for each game round on the symbol display device 253 based on a command transmitted from the notification/performance control device 140, and also executes a process related to a pending notice, which will be described later. is executed, and drawing processing for the VDP 475 is executed in accordance with the processing result. As a result, various images are displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253.

The program ROM 473 is a memory for storing various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 472, and also stores JPEG format image data for a background image. The work RAM 474 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, etc. used when the MPU 472 executes various programs. These work data, flags, etc. are stored in each area of the work RAM 474.

The VDP 475 is a type of drawing circuit that directly operates an image processing device as a liquid crystal display driver incorporated in the symbol display device 253. Since the VDP 475 is implemented as an IC chip, it is also called a "drawing chip," and its actual form is a microcomputer chip with built-in firmware dedicated to drawing processing. The VDP 475 adjusts the timing of each of the MPU 472, the video RAM 477, etc. and intervenes in reading and writing data, and also reads the image data to be stored in the video RAM 477 from the character ROM 476 at a predetermined timing and displays it on the symbol display device 253.

The character ROM 476 serves as an image data library for storing character data such as symbols displayed on the symbol display device 253. This character ROM 476 stores bitmap format image data of various display symbols, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like.

It is also possible to provide a plurality of character ROMs 476 and store image data and the like in each character ROM 476. Further, it is also possible to have a configuration in which the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 473 is stored in the character ROM 476.

The video RAM 477 is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 253, and by rewriting the contents of the video RAM 477, the display contents of the symbol display device 253 are changed.

As already explained, in this embodiment, the outline of the variable display mode of the symbols on the display screen 253a is specified by the notification/performance control device 140 with reference to the command from the main control device 162, and based on the specified result. The configuration is such that the details of the variable display mode are determined by the display control device 410. Specifically, the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 executes a fluctuating display control process as part of a regular process that is started at a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec), and this fluctuating display control process controls the fluctuating display of symbols. The outline of the aspect etc. is specified. Here, the variable display control process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 31.

(Fluctuating display control processing)
In the variable display control process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the game is in progress, that is, whether the symbol display device 253 is performing variable display or fixed display of symbols for one game. If it is determined that the game is not in progress, the process advances to step S1002, and it is determined whether or not a fluctuation start command transmitted from the main controller 162 has been received.

If a negative determination is made in step S1002, the present variable display control process is directly ended. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1002, a process for starting a change, which will be described later, is executed in step S1003, and then the present change display control process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of step S1001, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, that is, if it is determined that the game is in progress, the process advances to step S1004. In step S1004, it is determined whether the fluctuation end command transmitted from the main controller 162 has been received. If a negative determination is made in step S1004, the fluctuating display control process is ended after executing the fluctuating process in step S1005. The process for during fluctuation is a process for executing various performances and changing the determined performance in the game round started by the process for starting fluctuation.

When an affirmative determination is made in step S1004, the process advances to step S1006, and after executing the process for ending the variation in step S1006, the present variation display control process is ended. In the variation termination process, the variation display of symbols and the performance being executed are terminated (determined and stopped) in a manner corresponding to the hold information related to the game round. In this process, the speaker section 29 and the lamp section 26 are driven and controlled to perform an effect corresponding to the confirmed stop. Then, after outputting the confirmation command to the display control device 410, this variation termination process is terminated. The MPU 472 of the display control device 410 controls the symbol display device 253 to confirm and stop the symbols based on the received confirmation command.

(Processing for starting fluctuation)
Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 32, a supplementary explanation will be given of the variation start processing in step S1003. The fluctuation start process is a process for starting the performance of the game round based on receiving the fluctuation start command transmitted from the main control device 162. In the fluctuation start processing, settings such as a reach display and a hold notice performance to be described later are performed as effects for the game round. Here, the process related to setting the reach display will be explained, and the process related to setting the pending preview effect will be described later.

In the variation start process, first, in step S1101, the variation start command received this time is read out, and information on whether a reach has occurred and information on the variation display time are specified from the command. Further, as described above, when the main control device 162 transmits the variation start command, the type command is also transmitted. In step S1101, the type command received together with the variation start command received this time is read, and from the command, information on game results such as probability variable jackpot result information, normal jackpot result information, or miss result information is specified. Then, in step S1101, from the information specified above, information on whether there is a jackpot win, information on the type of jackpot when it is a jackpot win, information on whether reach occurs when the jackpot is not won, and variable display time. The information is stored in the register of the MPU 442.

In the following step S1102, based on the information grasped in step S1101, it is determined whether the game result of the game round to be started this time is a game result corresponding to a jackpot result. If it is a jackpot result, that is, if it is a variable probability jackpot result or a normal jackpot result, in the subsequent step S1103, a jackpot performance setting process is executed.

In the performance setting process for the jackpot, the stop result of the jackpot symbol is determined (stop result determination process is performed). In the stop result determination process, in the case of a variable jackpot result, the stop result in which the combination of the same specific symbols (odd-numbered main symbols) is established on one active line L1 to L5 is determined for this game round. Determined as a stop result. In addition, in the case of a normal jackpot result, the stop result in which a combination of the same non-specific symbols (main symbols with even numbers) on one active line L1 to L5 is established as the stop result of this game round. decide.

The type of main symbol and active lines L1 to L5 that are stopped and displayed when a jackpot result is achieved are randomly determined by lottery or the like. The final stop line table stored in various table areas of the ROM 443 stores each valid line L1 to L5 and address information, and the final stop line determined by the above process is the final stop line set in the RAM 444. It is stored as address information in the line address storage area. Also, at this time, processing is executed to store information on the determined stop result in the stop result address storage area. In addition, in the following explanation, the address information of the stop result determined in various stop result determination processes is stored in the stop result address storage area of the RAM 444.

In addition, in the performance setting process for the jackpot, the variable display mode of the jackpot symbol is determined (variable display mode determination process (performance pattern determination process) is performed). As already explained, if there is a jackpot result, the result is notified through the reach display. In the process of determining the variable display mode for displaying the reach, the variable display pattern table for displaying the reach stored in various table areas of the ROM 443 is acquired, and the variable display time and type command of the variable start command received this time are determined. A performance pattern of normal reach display or super reach display corresponding to the result is determined. It also executes a process of storing the address information of the determined variable display mode in the pattern address storage area of the RAM 444. In addition, also in the variable display mode determination process described below, a corresponding variable display pattern table is obtained from the variable display pattern table storage area of the ROM 443, and a performance pattern corresponding to the variable display time and the game result is determined. Then, the address information of the performance pattern determined in the performance pattern determination process is stored in the pattern address storage area of the RAM 444.

If it is determined in step S1102 that the result is not a jackpot, the process advances to step S1104. In step S1104, it is determined whether or not a reach occurs in the current game round. When a reach occurs, the process advances to step S1105 and executes an effect setting process for a reach. In the production setting process for generating a reach, the outline of the production and the combination of symbols to be finally stopped are determined. The former is similar to the process in step S1103 above, so the explanation will be used here. Since this process corresponds to a missed reach, stop symbols are determined so as not to result in a symbol combination that corresponds to a jackpot result. That is, a stop result in which a combination of off-reach symbols is established on one active line L1 to L5 is determined as the current stop result. In this case, the types of combinations of out-of-reach symbols and active lines L1 to L5 are randomly determined by lottery or the like. In addition, when making this determination, ensure that the same combination of symbols does not occur on any of the active lines L1 to L5, and that the symbols in the middle symbol row Z2 that are the same as the symbols forming the reach line are placed on the reach line. The stopping result on the effective line is determined so that the final stop is made at a stopping position shifted forward or backward. Thereafter, a process is executed to store information on the determined stop result in the stop result address storage area.

If it is determined in step S1104 that a reach has not occurred, the process advances to step S1106. In step S1106, the outline of the performance for a complete miss and the combination of symbols for the final stop are determined. Since this process deals with a complete loss, the stopping symbols are determined in such a way that a symbol combination corresponding to a jackpot result is not formed.

After executing any one of steps S1103, S1105, and S1106, the process advances to step S1107. In step S1107, a process is executed to output commands including information on the stop result and production pattern determined in steps S1103, S1105, and S1106 to the display control device 410 as a stop result command and a pattern command, respectively. Based on the received stop result command and pattern command, the MPU 472 of the display control device 410 controls the display of the symbol display device 253 to execute the performance in the current game round.

After executing the process in step S1107, in the subsequent step S1108, the process for starting the effect for the game round is executed, and then the process for starting the variation is ended. Specifically, drive control of the speaker section 29 and lamp section 26 is started based on the performance pattern determined in steps S1103, S1105, and S1106, and the performance for the game round is started.

Here, based on FIG. 33, supplementary explanation will be given regarding the variable display mode of the symbols displayed on the symbol display device 253 (display screen 253a). FIG. 33(a) is a schematic diagram showing types of variable display modes, and FIG. 33(b) is a schematic diagram showing an overview of each variable display mode.

(Fluctuating display mode)
As shown in FIG. 33(a), the variation display mode of the symbol executed on the display screen 253a is largely divided into five types: complete miss, normal reach A, normal reach B, super reach A, super reach B, and super reach C. Separated. Each of these variable display modes is set to have a different variable display time, and the outline of the variable display mode for each game is grasped based on the information related to the variable display time given to the command from the main controller 162. It is possible.

Specifically, the variable display time for a complete miss is "3 seconds to 8 seconds" (the difference is set according to the number of reservations), the variable display time for normal reach A is "10 seconds", and the variable display time for normal reach B is The variable display time of Super Reach A is 15 seconds, which is longer than the variable display time of Normal Reach A, and the variable display time of Super Reach A is 16 seconds, which is longer than the variable display time of Normal Reach A and B. The variable display time of Super Reach C is ``17 seconds'' which is longer than the variable display time of A, and the variable display time of Super Reach C is ``18 seconds'' which is longer than the variable display times of other Super Reach A and B. For example, if the information regarding the variable display time given to the command from the main control device 162 is "15 seconds", the notification/effect control device 140 will understand that normal reach B should be executed. .

In addition, in the game round corresponding to the jackpot result, Super Reach C > Super Reach B
＞ Super Reach A ＞ Normal Reach B ＞ Normal Reach A is more likely to be selected in this order, and in the game round that corresponds to a losing result, it is a complete loss ＞ Normal Reach A ＞ Normal Reach B ＞ Super Reach A ＞ Super Reach B ＞
The configuration is such that it is likely to be selected in the order of Super Reach C. In other words, the setting is such that the longer the variable display time becomes, the higher the expectation of winning the jackpot becomes.

Here, the variation display mode of normal reaches A and B will be explained with reference to FIG. 33(b1). When Normal Reach A or B is selected, first the variable display (scroll display) of all symbol rows that are stopped and displayed is started, and then the variable display of the symbols in the upper symbol row Z1 is ended (stopped). Then, the variable display of the symbols is ended (stopped) in the lower symbol row Z3. In this state that the upper and lower symbol rows Z1 and Z3 are stopped and displayed, the main symbols with the same number attached to any of the active lines L1 to L5 (see FIG. 16(a)) are stopped and displayed. A leech line is formed. Then, under the situation where the reach line is formed, the middle symbol row Z2 is displayed in a variable manner, resulting in a reach display (reach variation display). After reaching the ready-to-reach display, the middle symbol row Z2 is stopped and displayed, thereby ending the variable display. Then, you will be notified that you have won the jackpot when the same symbols that make up the reach display stop on the reach line, and you will be notified that you have won the jackpot when other symbols stop on the same reach line. You will be notified that you have not done so. In this way, the final stop-displayed symbol combination is maintained as it is for a predetermined period of time. In other words, the current game round continues until the stop display time (determined display time) has elapsed, and when the stop display time has elapsed, the transition to the next game round is permitted.

In this embodiment, by setting a difference in the variable display time of the medium symbol row Z2 after the reach line is formed, a difference in the variable display time between normal reach A and normal reach B is ensured. The method of setting the difference is arbitrary. For example, it is also possible to ensure the above-mentioned difference in the variable display time by setting a difference in the time from the start of the variable display until the reach line is formed.

Next, the variable display mode of super reaches A, B, and C will be explained based on the variable display mode of normal reaches A, B mentioned above. As shown in FIGS. 33(b2) to (b4), for super reaches A, B, and C, the above-mentioned reach lines are formed through the same process as for normal reaches A, B. After the ready-to-reach line is formed, a ready-to-reach effect is performed by displaying a predetermined character as a moving image in conjunction with the fluctuating display of the middle symbol row Z2. Specifically, in super reach A, after the reach line is formed, a character imitating a fairy is displayed in the center of the variable display area of medium symbol row Z2 (center of variable display area ME), and in super reach B, a character imitating a fairy is displayed. In Super Reach C, after the reach line is formed, a character imitating a boy is displayed in the center of the variable display area of medium symbol row Z2 (the center of the variable display area ME), and in Super Reach C, after the reach line is formed, A character imitating a girl will be displayed in the center of the variable display area of the middle symbol row Z2 (the center of the variable display area ME).

In this embodiment, an interlocking performance using the first movable performance device 300 and the second movable performance device 380 may be executed as one of the chance-up effects in the above-described super reach A to C. The interlocking effects are roughly divided into interlocking effects in which the second movable effect device 380 operates independently, and interlocking effects in which the first movable effect device 300 and the second movable effect device 380 are used together (the above-mentioned special effects). The system is configured such that when the latter is executed, the expectation of being notified of the jackpot result is higher than when the former is executed. Hereinafter, the special performance processing (special performance processing) executed by the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 34. The special effect process is a process executed as part of the process during fluctuation in the above-described fluctuation display control process (see FIG. 31).

(Processing for special effects)
In the special performance processing, first, in step S1201, it is determined whether the current game round is a game round related to a special performance. If a negative determination is made in step S1201, this special effect processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1201, the process advances to step S1202.

In step S1202, it is determined whether the display form of the decoration unit 350 in the first movable presentation device 300 is the second form. If a negative determination is made in step S1202, the process advances to step S1203. In step S1203, it is determined whether it is time to switch the display form of the decoration unit 350 from the first form to the second form. Specifically, after the above-mentioned various characters are displayed in Super Reach A to C, it is determined whether or not it is time for the same symbol as the symbol forming the reach line to arrive on the reach line. .

If a negative determination is made in step S1203, this special effect processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1203, the process advances to step S1204, and a switching process to the second mode is executed. Specifically, a drive signal is output to the stepping motor 375 as a display mode switching drive unit. By operating the stepping motor 375 in response to this drive signal, the display form of the decoration unit 350 is switched from the first form to the second form.

In the following step S1205, light emission control start processing is executed. In the light emission control start process, power supply to the light emitting board 357 provided in the decoration unit 350 is started. This power is supplied to the light emitting board 357 attached to each unit structure 355 through the relay board 305 and the power supply mechanism 360 described above.

Returning to the explanation of step S1202, if the display form of the decoration unit 350 in the first movable presentation device 300 is the second form, an affirmative determination is made in step S1202 and the process proceeds to step S1206. In step S1206, it is determined whether the decoration 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 is placed at the presentation position. If a negative determination is made in step S1206, the process advances to step S1207.

In step S1207, it is determined whether the timing for operating the second movable presentation device 380 has arrived. Specifically, it is determined whether the timing is right after the decoration unit 350 is switched to the second mode and the light emitting display is started. If a negative determination is made in step S1207, this special effect processing is immediately ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1207, a drive signal is output to the solenoid 386 of the second movable presentation device 380 in step S1208. As a result, the decoration body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 moves from the standby position to the presentation position.

Returning to the explanation of step S1206, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1206, the process advances to step S1209. In step S1209, it is determined whether the decoration unit 350 is rotating. If a negative determination is made in step S1209, the process advances to step S1210. In step S1210, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to start rotating the decoration unit 350. Specifically, it is determined whether the timing is immediately after the decorative body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 is placed at the presentation position. If a negative determination is made in step S1210, this special effect processing is immediately ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1210, the process advances to step S1211. In step S1211, output of a drive signal to the stepping motor 371 as a rotation drive unit in the first movable presentation device 300 is started. The operation of the stepping motor 371 causes the decoration unit 350 (effect block 320) to start rotating.

Returning to the explanation of step S1209, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1209, that is, if the decoration unit 350 is rotating, the process advances to step S1212. In step S1212, it is determined whether it is the end timing of the special effect. If a negative determination is made in step S12121, this special effect processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1212, special effect end processing in steps S1213 to S1216 is executed.

In the special performance end process, first, in step S1213, a process to stop the circulating operation is executed. Specifically, the decoration unit 350 is rotated so that the unit structure 355 to which the second arm member 365 for power supply is attached stops at a predetermined position below the display screen 253a, and the rotation operation of the decoration unit 350 is completed. The output of the drive signal to the stepping motor 371, which is the operation drive unit, is stopped.

In step S1214, processing for switching the display form of the decoration unit 350 from the first form to the second form is executed. Specifically, when the orbiting operation of the decoration unit 350 is completed by the orbiting operation stop process in step S1213, a drive signal is output to the stepping motor 375 to reversely rotate the ring member 341. This causes the decoration unit 350 to switch to the first form.

In step S1215, light emission control termination processing is executed. Specifically, the power supply to the light emitting board 357 is stopped when the circulating operation of the decoration unit 350 is completed by the circulating operation stop process in step S1213. As a result, the decoration unit 350 is turned off.

Thereafter, in step S1216, the solenoid 386 of the second movable presentation device 380 is switched to a de-energized state, thereby returning the decorative body 385 from the presentation position to the standby position.

Here, the flow of the game round related to the special effect will be explained with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 35. Note that the game round illustrated in FIG. 35 corresponds to super reach A that corresponds to a losing result.

At timing ta1, variable display of each symbol row that had been stopped and displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 has started. The upper symbol row → the lower symbol row are stopped and displayed in the order, and at the timing of ta2, a reach display (double reach) is started in which a reach line is formed on effective lines L4 and L5 (see FIG. 16). Thereafter, at timing ta3, a character corresponding to super reach A is displayed, and the development to super reach A is clearly shown to the player.

At the timing of ta4 after the development to Super Reach A, a special effect has started. Specifically, the decoration unit 350 of the first movable presentation device 300 changes from the first form to the second form at the timing ta4 when the same middle symbol as the symbol forming the reach line crosses (reaches) the reach line. Switch to . As a result, the decoration unit 350 hidden behind the game board 80a moves to the front of the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, and the decoration unit 350 becomes visible from the front of the game machine. Here, the intersection point of the reach line (the stop point of the pattern) is surrounded by the decoration unit 350. Furthermore, at timing ta4, power supply to the light emitting board 357 is started, and the decoration unit 350 is switched from the unlit state to the emitting state.

At timing ta5 immediately after the switching of the display form of the decoration unit 350 is completed, the decoration body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 moves from the standby position to the presentation position. As a result, the power supply mechanism 360 is covered by the decorative body 385. Then, at timing ta6 immediately after the decoration body 385 is placed at the presentation position, the decoration unit 350 starts rotating.

At timing ta7, when a predetermined operation time has elapsed from timing ta4, the decoration unit 350 stops at the position before starting the rotation operation. At timing ta8 immediately after the decoration unit 350 finishes its rotation, the display form of the decoration unit 350 is switched to the first form. In line with this, the power supply to the decoration unit 350 is stopped, which causes the decoration unit 350 to switch from the light-emitting state to the light-out state, and the decoration body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 to move from the presentation position to the standby position. do. This completes the special performance.

At timing ta9 after the completion of the special performance, the variable display of the middle symbol row ends, and the symbol combination corresponding to the missed result is stopped (determined display) on the display screen 253a.

According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

In the first movable presentation device 300 shown in this embodiment, a power supply path to the decoration unit 350 is secured even when the decoration unit 350 is circling, and the decoration unit 350 is caused to emit light while it is circling. 350 has been designed to improve the appearance of the special effects.

The power supply mechanism 360 includes a connection terminal 363 on the housing 310 side (corresponding to the "base body side terminal") and a connection terminal 367 on the decoration unit 350 side (corresponding to the "decoration body side terminal"). 363 and 367 are in contact, forming a part of the power supply path from the notification/effect control device 140 to the light emitting board 357. When the decoration unit 350 rotates, the connection terminal 363 slides on the outer peripheral portion of the connection terminal 367, thereby changing the contact position while maintaining the contact state. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the power supply wiring from wrapping around the decoration unit 350, the housing 310, etc. as the decoration unit 350 rotates, and to prevent the wiring from wrapping around the decoration unit 350, the housing 310, etc. due to the length of the wiring, etc. This avoids restrictions on the number of rotations of the unit 350, etc. Increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the decoration unit 350 in this manner is preferable in terms of improving the appearance of the performance and increasing the degree of attention to the game.

In particular, in this embodiment, by arranging the connection terminals 363 and 367 at the rotation center of the decoration unit 350, the terminals (especially the decoration unit 350 side connection terminal) can be reduced in size. This is advantageous in reducing the weight of the decoration unit 350 and improving the responsiveness of the orbiting motion, and is preferable in order to suitably exhibit the above-mentioned attention-grabbing effect.

The connection terminal 367 provided on the decoration unit 350 side has an annular shape whose center axis coincides with the center axis CL when the decoration unit 350 rotates in the second form. With such a configuration, it is possible to stabilize the contact state with the connection terminal 363 on the housing 310 side even during the rotation.

A connection terminal 367, which is a decoration side terminal, is disposed on a second arm member 365 extending from the unit component 355 toward the center axis CL, and when the second arm member 365 is switched from the initial state to the bent state, It is provided in the part that is convex to the side. With such a structure, the entire length of the second arm member 365 can be shortened. This is preferable in order to prevent the appearance of the second form from deteriorating due to securing the power supply path.

The contact state of the connection terminals 363 and 367 is maintained regardless of whether the display form of the decoration unit 350 is the first form or the second form, and is also maintained during switching of the display form. If the power supply path is always secured in this way, the degree of freedom of expression can be suitably improved in turning on/off the decoration unit 350 as the display format is switched.

The decoration unit 350 has an annular shape centered on the central axis CL, and is configured to revolve around the central axis CL. With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress an excessive deviation in the weight balance of the decoration unit 350, and to suppress the shaking of the posture during the rotation. This suppresses separation of the connection terminals 363 and 367 during rotation, and stabilizes the contact state.

<Modification 1>
In the first embodiment, the connection terminal 363 of the first arm member 361 attached to the housing 310 is linear, and the connection terminal 367 of the second arm member 365 attached to the decoration unit 350 is annular. However, it is not limited to this. For example, when the first arm member 361 is provided with a shaft portion and the second arm member 365 is provided with a bearing portion, the connection terminal 363 of the first arm member 361 is annular, and the second It is also possible to make the connection terminal 367 of the arm member 365 linear.

<Modification 2>
In the first embodiment, when the display form of the decorative unit 350 is switched from the first form to the second form, the second arm member 365 attached to the unit structure 355 is arranged on the central axis CL. did. For example, when a specific portion of the decorative member 356 of the unit structure 355 is arranged on the central axis CL, the configuration corresponding to the second arm member 365 is omitted, and the first arm is attached to the specific portion of the decorative member 356. The members 361 may be connected. In this case, by arranging a configuration corresponding to the connection terminal 367 in the specific portion, a power supply path from the notification/effect control device 140 to the decoration unit 350 can be suitably formed.

<Modification 3>
In the first embodiment, when the decorative unit 350 is switched from the first form to the second form, a part of the unit structure 355 (the connecting part 358) is configured to be convex toward the central axis CL side. Although the second arm member 365 is attached to this connecting portion 358, it is also possible to attach the second arm member 365 to other parts of the unit structure 355. However, in order to reduce the overall length of the second arm member 365 as much as possible and make the power supply path less noticeable, it is technically significant to use the connecting portion 358 as the attachment portion of the second arm member 365.

<Modification 4>
In the first embodiment, the power supply to the light emitting board 357 is started after the switching of the decoration unit 350 to the second form is completed when a special effect is executed, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is not something that will be done. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which power supply to the light emitting board 357 is started before the decoration unit 350 switches to the second mode (for example, during the first mode).

Further, in the first embodiment, power is supplied to the light emitting board 357 when the decoration unit 350 is in the second form, but in addition to this, when the decoration unit 350 is in the first form, It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which power is supplied to the light emitting board 357 when the light emitting board 357 is present. When making such a change, instead of the decoration unit 350 being hidden behind the game board 80a when the decoration unit 350 is in the first form, the decoration unit 350 is also in the first form. It is preferable to configure it so that it is exposed on the central opening side of the game board 80a. By supplying power to the light emitting board 357 in the first form and causing the decoration unit 350 to emit light, the presentation patterns by the first movable presentation device 300 can be suitably diversified.

<Modification 5>
A structure corresponding to the connection terminal 363 provided on the first arm member 361 may be provided on the decoration body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 shown in the first embodiment. That is, a configuration in which a power supply path to the decoration unit 350 is formed by placing the decoration body 385 at the presentation position under a situation where the decoration unit 350 of the first movable presentation device 300 is in the second form. It is also possible to do this.

<Modification 6>
In the first embodiment described above, when the decoration unit 350 is in the first form, the decoration unit 350 is configured to be invisible from the front of the gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this. . It is sufficient that the first form has less overlap with the display screen 253a (specifically, the variable display area ME) than the second form, and the first form is also configured to be visible from the front of the gaming machine. It is also possible to do this. In this case, a configuration may be adopted in which power is supplied to the decoration unit 350 under the condition of the first mode to make the decoration unit 350 in a light emitting state (lighting state or blinking state) to indicate the occurrence of a special effect. .

<Second embodiment>
This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration for increasing the attention to the game during the special game state (open/close execution mode). Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 36 and 37, a supplementary explanation will be given of the prerequisite configuration related to the improvement of attention level during the special game state, and then, the characteristic features of this embodiment will be explained, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. The following describes the configuration. FIG. 36 is a front view showing the game board unit 80X in the second embodiment, and FIG. 37 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 36 showing the variable winning device 82X and its surroundings.

As shown in FIG. 36, a special game state ( A variable winning device 82X is provided that allows winning by shifting to the open/close execution mode).

The variable prize winning device 82X has a housing 82cX fixed to the game board 80a so as to protrude from the front of the game board 80a to the front of the game machine. A big prize opening 82a is formed. A flat opening/closing body 82b is disposed in the housing 82cX so as to cover the big prize opening 82a from above. This opening/closing body 82b is held by a housing 82cX so as to be able to slide back and forth, and when this opening/closing body 82b retreats so as to avoid protruding from the front surface of the game board 80aX, a game can be played to the grand prize opening 82a. The configuration allows the ball to enter the ball. As explained in the first embodiment, the game ball that reaches the opening/closing body 82b under the condition that the variable prize winning device 82X is in the closed state moves into the gaming area along the upper surface of the opening/closing body 82b. It will move to the center of PE.

Here, a ball passage is formed in the variable winning device 82X to guide the game ball that has passed through the big prize opening 82a to the back side of the game board 80a, and a ball entry detection sensor is disposed at a position in the middle of this ball passage. has been done. By separating the ball entry detection sensor from the big prize opening 82a, unauthorized access to the ball entry detection sensor using an unauthorized tool is made difficult. However, due to such separation, some time is required for the game ball that has passed through the big prize opening 82a to reach the detection area DE by the ball entry detection sensor. In other words, there is a slight time lag between when a winning actually occurs in the big winning opening 82a and when the winning is detected (understood) by the main control device 162. Therefore, in each round in the special game state, when the number of prizes entered into the grand prize opening 82a reaches the end standard number (10 pieces) and the variable prize winning device 82X switches from the open state to the closed state, the variable winning device 82X switches from the open state to the closed state. There is a possibility that another prize will be won to the big prize opening 82a just before the switching. In this embodiment, a special performance is executed during a special gaming state when a winning exceeding the end standard number (so-called over-winning) occurs at the end of a round. The configuration related to this special performance will be described below with reference to FIG. 36.

The lower part of the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, that is, the portion near the actuating ports 83a, 83b, is a hold display area NE where a hold display regarding the actuating ports 83a, 83b is performed. In this reservation display area NE, a reservation number display area Da in which the same number of reservation icons MP as the number of reservations related to the operating ports 83a and 83b is displayed, and a reservation icon MP corresponding to the game round in progress are displayed. An execution target display area Db is provided. Note that the pending number display area Da and the execution target display area Db are the same as those in the first embodiment, so detailed explanations will be omitted.

Three colors are provided for the pending icon MP: white, blue, and red. The color of the hold icon MP is basically set to white, but other colors may be set depending on the timing at which the hold information is acquired or when the hold information shifts. Specifically, the colors of the pending icons MP are set differently in the order of white < blue < red so that the expectation of a jackpot result increases, and the change in color of the pending icon MP increases the likelihood of a jackpot. The expectation level of a jackpot may be suggested before the corresponding game round (the corresponding game round) starts. With such a configuration, even if a reach display or the like does not occur in the game being executed, the expectation of a jackpot in the gaming machine to be executed later is indicated. This is preferable in order to increase the player's attention to the game.

One of the features of this embodiment is that in addition to the reservation display area NE of the display screen 253a, a reservation display section that displays the number of reservations related to the operation ports 83a and 83b is provided. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 37, a housing 82cX of the variable prize winning device 82X has a built-in pending display section 500X, which is a light emitting board on which a plurality of light emitting bodies (LEDs) are mounted. The light from the reservation display section 500X is emitted to the front of the gaming machine through the front surface of the housing 82cX, so that the number of reservations displayed on the variable winning device 82X can be viewed from the front of the gaming machine.

The hold display section 500X is composed of an execution target display section 501X corresponding to the hold information of the game round being executed, and a hold count display section 502X corresponding to the hold information of the subsequent game round. The execution target display section 501X is made up of one light emitter, and the pending number display section 502X is composed of eight light emitters (unit pending display sections) arranged horizontally on the right side of the execution target display section 501X.

The holding number display section 502X includes, from the left side, a first unit holding display section 502aX corresponding to the first area of the holding area RE for actuating mouth, and a second unit holding display section corresponding to the second area of the holding area RE for working mouth. 502bX, a third unit holding display section 502cX corresponding to the third area of the holding area RE for the operating port, a fourth unit holding display section 502dX corresponding to the fourth area of the holding area RE for the working port, a holding area RE for the operating port. 5th unit holding display section 502eX corresponding to the 5th area of the operating port holding area RE, 6th unit holding display section 502fX corresponding to the 6th area of the operating port holding area RE, They are arranged in this order: a 7 unit reservation display section 502gX, and an 8th unit reservation display section 502hX corresponding to the 8th area of the actuating mouth reservation area RE. In other words, the arrangement of the execution target display section 501X and the number of pending display sections 502X and the arrangement of the unit pending display sections in the number of pending display sections 502X are the same as the execution target display area Db and the number of pending display areas Da in the above-mentioned pending display area NE. It becomes.

As illustrated in FIG. 38, when the number of reservation information (the number of reservations) stored in the operation port reservation area RE of the main controller 162 is three, the first unit reservation display section 502aX to the third The unit hold display section 502cX is turned on, and the fourth unit hold display section 502dX to the eighth unit hold display section 502hX are turned off. When the number of reservation information (the number of reservations) stored in the operation port reservation area RE of the main controller 162 is four, the first unit reservation display section 502aX to the fourth unit reservation display section 502dX are in a lit state and the The 5th unit pending display section 502eX to the 8th unit pending display section 502hX are turned off. When the number of reservation information (the number of reservations) stored in the operation port reservation area RE of the main controller 162 is two, the first unit reservation display section 502aX to the second unit reservation display section 502bX are in a lit state and the The 3rd unit pending display section 502cX to the 8th unit pending display section 502hX are turned off. In addition, in FIG. 38, dot hatching is given to each area where the reservation information is stored in the operation port reservation area RE, and the unit reservation display section that is in a lit state is shown as a solid line and in an unlit state. The unit reservation display area is indicated by a broken line.

Similarly to the hold icon MP displayed in the hold display area NE, the color of the light emitted by the unit hold display sections 502aX to 502hX can be individually switched. Specifically, the emitted light color can be switched to three colors: white, blue, and red. The emission color of the unit reservation display sections 502aX to 502hX is also basically white, and is changed to blue or red when a predetermined change condition is met. Similar to the color of the pending icon MP, these luminescent colors are also differentiated so that the expectation of a jackpot result increases in the order of white < blue < red.

In this embodiment, both the pending display area NE of the display screen 253a and the pending number display section 502X of the variable winning device 82X are provided with the function of executing a preview effect (pending notice). The preview performance is basically executed in the normal gaming state, whereas the preview performance in the pending number display section 502X is basically executed in the special gaming state. The structure is as follows.

As shown in the first embodiment above, in the special game state corresponding to some jackpot results, if you continue to shoot the game ball to the right route during the special game state, a wasted ball may occur. There is sex. Specifically, while the variable winning device 82X is in the closed state, the game ball may pass through the variable winning device 82X and head toward the out port 89. In order to suppress the occurrence of such wasted balls and aim for the above-mentioned over-win, it is assumed that the player's attention will be more likely to be directed to the variable winning device 82X during the special game state.

Here, the distance (L2) between the opening/closing body 82b (big winning opening 82a) of the variable winning device 82X and the pending display section 500X (more specifically, the pending number display section 502X) is the distance (L2) between the opening/closing body 82b (big winning opening 82a) of the variable winning device 82X It is shorter than the distance (L1) between the mouth 82a) and the reservation number display area Da of the reservation display area NE. During the special game state, the preview performance is executed using the reservation display unit 500X disposed near the variable winning device 82X, thereby reducing the chance of missing the preview performance.

The preview performance on the hold display section 500X constitutes a part of the above-mentioned special performance. Hereinafter, various control processes related to the special performance executed by the MPU 402 of the main control device 162 and the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 will be explained. First, with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 39, the big winning opening opening/closing process (step S908) executed by the MPU 402 of the main control device 162 as part of the gaming state transition process (see FIG. 29) will be described.

(Big prize opening/closing process)
In the grand prize opening/closing process, first, in step S1301, a winning command output control process is executed.

(Winning command output control process)
As shown in FIG. 39(b), in the winning command output control process, first, in step S1401, a winning to the big winning opening 82a is determined based on the detection information from the ball entering detection sensor attached to the variable winning device 82X. Determine whether it has occurred. If a negative determination is made in step S1401, the main winning command output control process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1401, the process advances to step S1402. In step S1402, it is determined whether or not the winnings to the variable winning device 82X are valid during the valid period. Winning to the variable winning device 82X is enabled at the timing when the variable winning device 82X changes from the closed state to the open state, and even after the variable winning device 82X switches from the open state to the closed state, until a certain grace period elapses. Winning to the variable winning device 82X remains enabled. This grace time is defined to be longer time (1.5 sec) than the required time (1 sec) for the game ball passing through the big prize opening 82a to reach the detection area DE. If the current winning prize is not within the valid period, the winning command output control process is immediately terminated. If the current prize winning is within the valid period, the process advances to step S1403 and the value of the winning prize counter PC is incremented by "1".

Note that in this embodiment, the valid time is divided into rounds, but the present invention is not limited to this. It may be configured such that subsequent winnings to the variable winning device 82X are made valid when the special gaming state starts, and subsequent winnings to the variable winning device 82X are invalidated when the special gaming state ends.

In the following step S1404, it is determined whether the value of the winning counter PC exceeds "10". If the value of the prize winning counter PC is between "0" and "10", a negative determination is made in step S1404 and the process proceeds to step S1405, where a first winning command is set. On the other hand, if the value of the winning counter PC is equal to or greater than "11", an affirmative determination is made in step S1404, and the process proceeds to step S1406, where a second winning command is set. These first winning command and second winning command are output to the payout control device 242 and the notification/performance control device 140 in the external output process (step S401) of the normal process.

After executing the process in step S1406, the over winning flag is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404 in step S1407, and the present winning command output control process is ended.

Returning to the explanation of the big winning opening opening/closing process, after finishing the winning command output control process in step S1301, the opening/closing control process is executed in step S1302. The opening/closing control process will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 40.

(Opening/closing control processing)
In the opening/closing control process, first, in step S1501, it is determined whether the big prize opening 82a of the variable winning device 82X is open. Specifically, this determination is made based on the driving state of the variable winning drive section of the variable winning device 82X. If the big prize opening 82a is not open, it is determined in step S1502 whether or not the value of the open number counter OC is "0". If an affirmative determination is made in step S1502, the main prize opening opening/closing process is immediately terminated.

If a negative determination is made in step S1502, the process advances to step S1503. In step S1503, it is determined whether the value of the open timer counter TC is "0". The open timer counter TC is a counter that is referenced when grasping the opening time and closing time (interval time) of the big prize opening 82a, and its value changes to "1" every time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 21) is executed. ” will be subtracted. If a negative determination is made in step S1503, the main opening/closing control process ends.

If the value of the opening number counter OC is not "0" and the value of the opening timer counter TC is "0", the process advances to step S1504, and the process of opening the big prize opening 82a is executed. Specifically, the variable winning a prize driving section is brought into a driving state in order to open the big winning a prize opening 82a. After that, the processing of steps S1505 to S1506 is executed as the closing condition setting processing (opening setting processing) for the variable winning device 82X (big winning opening 82a). Specifically, in step S1505, the open timer counter TC is set to "15000" (corresponding to 30 seconds), and in step S1506, the winning prize counter PC is set to "0". After executing the process of step S1506, the process proceeds to step S1507, where an open command indicating that the variable winning device 82X (big winning opening 82a) is opened is set, and the main opening/closing control process is ended. This set release command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). The notification/performance control device 140 determines the content of the production corresponding to the release based on receiving the release command, and controls various devices so that the determined content of the production is executed.

Returning to the explanation of step S1501, if it is determined in step S1501 that the big prize opening 82a is open, the process proceeds to step S1508, and it is determined whether the value of the open timer counter TC is "0" or not. If the value of the open timer counter TC is not "0", the process advances to step S1509, and it is determined whether the value of the prize winning counter PC is "10" or more.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1509, that is, the value of the winning counter PC has reached "10," or if an affirmative determination is made in step S1508, that is, the value of the open timer counter TC is "0." ), it means that the conditions for closing the big winning opening have been met. In this case, in step S1510, the variable winning a prize driving section is brought into a non-driving state in order to close the big winning a prize opening 82a.

In the following step S1511, the open number counter OC is updated. Specifically, if the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", the open number counter OC is decremented by 1, and if the value of the open number counter OC is "0", the open number counter OC is decremented by 1. The value of is maintained at "0".

Thereafter, in step S1512, it is determined whether the updated value of the open number counter OC is "0". If a negative determination is made in step S1512, the process advances to step S1513, and the open timer counter TC is set to "1000" (corresponding to 2 seconds) or "2500" (corresponding to 5 seconds). After executing the process in step S1513, a closing command is set in step S1514, and the main winning opening opening/closing process is ended. This set closing command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24). When the notification/performance control device 140 receives a closing command, it determines the content of the production corresponding to the closure command, and controls various devices so that the determined content of the production is executed.

Returning to the explanation of step S1512, if it is determined in step S1512 that the value of the open number counter OC is "0", the process advances to step S1515. In step S1515, ending start processing is executed. In the start processing, an ending standby time for waiting without starting the next game round is set for the ending of the opening/closing execution mode. Specifically, the waiting time information for the ending, which is stored in advance in the ROM 403, is set in the waiting time counter area provided in the various counter areas 434 of the RAM 404.

After that, in step S1516, after setting an ending command, the main prize opening opening/closing process is ended. This set ending command is transmitted to the notification/effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 24).

Returning to the explanation of FIG. 39(a), after the opening/closing control process is finished, it is determined in step S1303 whether or not an over winning has occurred. Specifically, it is determined whether the over winning flag is stored in the various flag storage area 435 of the RAM 404. If a negative determination is made in step S1303, the main prize opening opening/closing process is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1303, a confirmation process for the pending notice is executed in step S1304, and then the main prize opening opening/closing process is ended. The confirmation process for pending notice will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 41.

(Confirmation process for pending notice)
In the reservation notice confirmation process, first in step S1601, the active reservation memory number N and the common reservation number CRN stored in the reservation number storage area of the reservation ball storage area 432 are read out, and the information on the reservation number is sent to the MPU 402. Store in register. After that, in steps S1602 to S1606, it is checked (specifically )do. Specifically, first, in step S1602, information for jackpot determination among the pending information acquired and stored in step S304, that is, the value of the acquired random number counter C1 is grasped.

In the following step S1603, it is determined whether the mode is low probability mode. Specifically, based on the types of jackpot flags stored in the various flag storage areas 435 of the RAM 404, it is determined whether the lottery mode becomes the low probability mode for the game state to which the special game state is to be transferred after the end of the special game state. If it is the low probability mode, the process advances to step S1604, and the information for jackpot determination (value of the winning random number counter C1) obtained in step S1602 with reference to the win/fail table for the low probability mode (FIG. 18(a)). In the following step S1606, it is determined whether or not is included in the information group corresponding to the jackpot win. If the mode is high probability mode, the process advances to step S1605, and the information for jackpot determination grasped in step S1602 (hit random number counter C1 In step S1606, it is determined whether the value (value of .

In the determination process of step S1606, the above-mentioned confirmation is performed on the stored pending information in the order of the oldest, and if one corresponding to a jackpot is confirmed, newer pending information is not subject to the above confirmation. The process ends. For example, when the number of stored reservation information (common reservation number CRN) is two, that is, the reservation information is stored in the first area and the second area of the operation mouth retention area RE, first The above confirmation is performed regarding the pending information stored in one area. If the pending information stored in the first area corresponds to a jackpot, the determination process in step S1606 is ended without performing the above-mentioned confirmation of other pending information. On the other hand, if the hold information stored in the first area corresponds to a loss, the hold information stored in the second area is determined. If the pending information stored in the second area corresponds to a jackpot, the determination process in step S1606 is ended without performing the above-mentioned confirmation of other pending information.

If it corresponds to a jackpot win, the jackpot information is stored in the register of the MPU 402 in step S1607. In the process of step S1607, the information for jackpot type determination among the pending information corresponding to the jackpot result, that is, the value of the acquired winning type counter C2, is grasped, and the jackpot type is determined by referring to the distribution table. . The information stored in the register of the MPU 402 in step S1607 includes information regarding the type of jackpot.

On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1606, that is, if any of the stored hold information corresponds to a negative result, the process advances to step S1608. In step S1608, regarding the hold information stored in the actuating mouth hold area RE, information for out-of-reach determination and information for reach type determination, that is, the values of the acquired reach random number counter C3 and variation type counter CS are grasped. .

In the following step S1609, the reach determination table (reach determination information group) stored in the reach determination table storage area (reach determination information group storage means) of the ROM 403 and the fluctuation stored in the fluctuation display time table storage area are With reference to the display time table, the reach determination table and the variable display time table corresponding to the normal gaming state (first normal gaming state to third normal gaming state) to which the special gaming state transitions after the end of the special gaming state are referred to, and grasped in step S1408. In step S1610, it is determined whether the reach judgment information (value of the reach random number counter C3) is included in the information set as a reach win, and in the case of a reach win, whether the type is super reach. do.

In the reach determination table corresponding to the first normal game state, the reach random number counter C3 has a total of 10 values of "7", "37", "57", ..., "237", indicating that a reach has occurred. The probability is approximately 1/24 (see FIG. 42(a)). In the reach determination table corresponding to the second normal game state, the reach random number counter C3 has a total of 15 values of "7", "17", "37", "57", ..., "237". Therefore, the probability of reach occurrence is approximately 1/16 (see FIG. 42(b)). In the reach determination table corresponding to the third normal game state, the values of the reach random number counter C3 are "7", "17", "27", "37", "47", "57", ..., "237". '', which is a total of 18 pieces, and the reach occurrence probability is about 1/13 (see FIG. 42(c)). In other words, it is configured such that the probability of reach occurrence increases in the order of first normal gaming state < second normal gaming state < third normal gaming state.

On the other hand, the variable display time table for out-of-reach is shared, and is common in each normal gaming state. In other words, the distribution probabilities of normal reach A, normal reach B, super reach A, super reach B, and super reach C when a reach occurs are the same.

In the determination process of step S1610, the above-mentioned confirmation is performed on the stored pending information in the order of the oldest one, and if one that corresponds to the occurrence of super reach is confirmed, newer pending information is subject to the above confirmation. The process ends without any problem. For example, when the number of stored reservation information (common reservation number CRN) is two, that is, the reservation information is stored in the first area and the second area of the operation mouth retention area RE, first The above confirmation is performed regarding the pending information stored in one area. If the hold information stored in the first area corresponds to the occurrence of super reach, the determination process in step S1610 is ended without performing the above-mentioned confirmation of other hold information. On the other hand, if the hold information stored in the first area corresponds to a loss, the hold information stored in the second area is determined. If the pending information stored in the second area corresponds to a jackpot, the determination process in step S1610 is ended without performing the above-mentioned confirmation of other pending information.

If it corresponds to the super reach occurrence, in step S1611, the super reach occurrence information is stored in the register of the MPU 402, and then this confirmation process is ended. On the other hand, if it does not correspond to the occurrence of reach, this confirmation process is ended as is.

After executing the processing in steps S1607 and S1611, a command update process is performed to add the jackpot information and the missed super reach occurrence information to the second winning command set in step S1406. Thereafter, in step S1603, the over winning flag stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 404 is erased, and the confirmation process for the reservation notice is ended.

If an over-win occurs during the special gaming state, a second winning command including information corresponding to the stored special information is transmitted from the main control device 162 to the notification/performance control device 140. In the MPU 442 of the notification/presentation control device 140, over-win handling processing corresponding to this second winning command is executed as a regular part of the special game state. Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 43, the over-win handling process will be described.

(Over-winning processing)
In the over-win handling process, first, in step S1701, it is determined whether or not the opening/closing execution mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S1701, the over-win handling process is directly ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1701, the process advances to step S1702. In step S1702, it is determined whether the second winning command has been received from the main control device 162. If a negative determination is made in step S1702, the present over-win handling process is directly terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1702, the process advances to step S1703, and processing for updating pending notice information is performed.

In the pending preview information update process, the jackpot information added to the second winning command is stored in the corresponding area of the first area Rc1 to the eighth area Rc8 (see FIG. 30) of the pending information storage area 467 of the RAM 444. Information on the occurrence of super reach has been added. In addition, the jackpot information and the missed super reach occurrence information stored during the normal gaming state may behave differently depending on the gaming state after the transition to the opening/closing execution mode, so they will be deleted when transitioning to the opening/closing execution mode. The configuration is as follows.

After executing the information update process in step S1703, the process advances to step S1704. In step S1704, an over winning counter, which is a means for storing the cumulative number (total number) of over winnings provided in the various counter areas 465 of the RAM 444, is updated. Specifically, the value of the over winning counter is incremented by "1".

In the following step S1705, it is determined whether or not a special effect flag is stored in the various flag storage area 466 of the RAM 444. If a negative determination is made in step S1705, the process advances to step S1706. The details will be described later, but the special performance flag is a flag that is stored when it is determined to perform a special performance based on over-winning during the opening/closing execution mode.

In step S1706, it is determined based on the information updated in step S1703 whether the reservation information related to the actuating ports 83a, 83b is stored. If the reservation information is not stored, a negative determination is made in step S1706, and the present over-win handling process is ended. If the pending information is stored, an affirmative determination is made in step S1706, and the lottery process for the special performance in steps S1707 and S1708 is executed. In this embodiment, when an over-win occurs, a special performance lottery is executed in two different ways.

Specifically, in the first lottery process for special effects executed in step S1707, the first lottery table stored in the lottery table storage area 451 of the ROM 443 is referred to to determine the occurrence lottery of the special effect. conduct. In the first lottery table, the probability of winning the special effect is different between the seventh round and the other rounds. Specifically, as shown in Figure 44(a), the winning probability is 10% for each round other than the 7th round, whereas the winning probability for the 7th round is 20%. ing. In other words, if an over-win occurs in the seventh round, the special effect is more likely to occur than when an over-win occurs in other rounds.

In the second lottery process for special effects executed in step S1708, a special effect generation lottery is performed with reference to the second lottery table stored in the lottery table storage area 451 of the ROM 443. The second lottery table is set so that the higher the cumulative number of over-wins, the higher the probability of winning the special effect. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 44(b), when the cumulative number of over winnings (value of over winning counter) is "0", the winning probability is 0%, and when it is "2", the winning probability is 5%, 10% for "3", and 20% for "4" or more.

Note that if a winner is won in the first lottery process for special performance, the second lottery process for special performance is canceled.

If the lottery process in steps S1707 and S1708 results in a non-winning result, a negative determination is made in step S1709, and the main over-winning process ends. If the winner is determined in steps S1707 and S1708, an affirmative determination is made in step S1709, and the process proceeds to step S1710 to execute the effect mode determination process. The flag is set and the main over-win handling process is ended.

Here, the production mode determination process will be explained with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 44(c). In the special performance in this embodiment, by changing the emitting color of the unit reservation display section 500X provided in the variable prize winning device 82X, there is a high possibility that a jackpot will be won before the corresponding game round starts. The structure suggests this. In the performance mode determination process, it is determined individually whether to maintain the light emitting color of each unit reservation display section as white or to change it from white to blue or red. When making this decision, 90% of the time, no change (remains white) is selected for items that are completely off or off, and those that correspond to the normal reach are selected, and 10% of the time, a change from white to blue is selected. For those that support Super Reach, 80% of the time, the change from white to blue is selected, 20% of the time, the change from white to red is selected, and for those that support Jackpot, 20% A change from white to blue is selected at a rate of , and a change from white to red is selected at a rate of 80%.

The order of priority for this change is Completely Missed, Missed Normal Reach < Missed Super Reach < Jackpot, and if pending information corresponding to a jackpot is included, the oldest pending information corresponding to a jackpot is The above-mentioned emitting color is changed only for the above-mentioned emitting color, and other pending information corresponding to jackpots, pending information corresponding to losing super reach, etc. are excluded from the emitting color change target. In addition, if the pending information corresponding to the jackpot is not stored, and the pending information corresponding to the winning and super reach is stored, the emitting color will be changed for the pending information corresponding to the complete winning and the pending information corresponding to the losing normal reach. excluded from.

Returning to the explanation of step S1705, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1705, that is, if the special effect flag is stored in the various flag storage area 466 of the RAM 444, the process advances to step S1712. In step S1712, it is determined whether the corresponding game round corresponds to a missed reach. If a negative determination is made in step S1712, the present over-win handling process is directly ended. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1712, the process advances to step S1713. In step S1713, it is determined whether or not pending information corresponding to the jackpot result has been newly added in the information update process of step S1703, that is, the operation opening that occurred between the decision of the previous special performance and the reception of the current second winning command. A new winning occurs in 83a and 83b, and it is determined whether or not pending information corresponding to the jackpot result is newly acquired due to the winning. If a negative determination is made in step S1713, the present over-win handling process is directly terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1713, the process advances to step S1714. In step S1714, the target for changing the light emitting color in the special performance is changed from the game cycle (pending information) targeted at the time of determining the previous special performance to the game cycle (pending information) corresponding to the newly acquired jackpot result. In other words, in such a case, instead of a new special performance lottery being executed, the winning result of the occurrence lottery is carried over and the luminescent color is changed to correspond to the jackpot result. There is.

Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 45, the special performance execution process executed by the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 will be described. The special performance execution process is a process that is executed as part of the regular process during the special game state in response to the result of the above-mentioned over-win handling process.

(Special performance execution processing)
In the special performance execution process, first, in step S1801, it is determined whether or not the opening/closing execution mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S1801, this special effect execution processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1801, it is determined in step S1802 whether or not a special performance is being performed. If a negative determination is made in step S1802, the process advances to step S1803.

In step S1803, it is determined whether the value of the over winning counter provided in the various counter areas 465 of the RAM 444 is "7". If a negative determination is made in step S1803, this special effect execution processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1803, the process advances to step S1804, and it is determined whether or not a special effect flag is stored in the various flag storage area 466 of the RAM 444. If a negative determination is made in step S1804, this special effect execution processing is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1804, the process advances to step S1805.

In step S1805, it is determined whether or not a round game is in progress, that is, before the transition to the ending which is the final part of the opening/closing execution mode (before the validity period in the final round has elapsed). In this embodiment, the execution time of the ending is longer than the shortest execution time of the special effect. Therefore, if the special performance start condition is satisfied before the ending starts, the execution time of the special performance will not run out. If a negative determination is made in step S1805, this special effect execution processing is immediately terminated.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1805, the process advances to step S1806 and special performance start processing is executed. In other words, in this embodiment, if you win the special performance lottery when over-winning occurs, and the number of over-winnings (cumulative number) accumulated in the opening/closing execution mode that is being executed reaches "7" before the ending. When this happens, a special performance will begin. In other words, even if the cumulative number of over-wins reaches "7" before the ending, if you have not won the special performance lottery, the special performance will not be executed and you will win the special performance lottery. Even when the game is running, if the cumulative number of over-wins does not reach "7" before the ending, the special performance is not executed. Incidentally, even if the cumulative number of over-wins reaches "7" after the ending starts, no special effects will be executed based on it.

In the special performance start process, the display mode of the unit reservation display section that is lit in the reservation number display section 502X of the variable prize winning device 82X is switched from a lighting display to a blinking display. When switching to a blinking display or during a blinking display, the emitted light color of the pending number display section 502X is not changed, and remains the same as the light emitted color before switching to the blinking display. The blinking display detailed above serves as a precursor display for changing the luminescent color.

In addition, if a winning occurs in the operating ports 83a, 83b during the blinking display and new pending information is acquired, the unit pending display corresponding to the newly acquired pending information changes from an unlit display to a lit display. , and the switch to a blinking display is avoided. This is a contrivance to distinguish between the pending information added later and the pending information stored before the start of the special performance (the pending information that is the subject of the special performance).

Returning to the explanation of step S1802, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1802, that is, if the special performance is in progress, the process advances to step S1807. In step S1807, it is determined whether it is time to end the sign display. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1807, the process advances to step S1808. In step S1808, the display mode of the unit reservation display section is switched from a blinking display to a lighting display, and the emitted light color is controlled to be a predetermined color.

If a negative determination is made in step S1807, that is, if it is not the timing to end the sign display, the process advances to step S1809. In step S1809, it is determined whether it is the takeover timing for the end of the opening/closing execution mode. If it is not the takeover timing before the end of the opening/closing execution mode, the special performance execution process is immediately ended. If it is the takeover timing before the opening/closing execution mode, the display takeover process is executed in step S1810, and then the special effect execution process is ended.

In the display takeover process, the display of the pending icon MP on the symbol display device 253 (pending display area NE) that was hidden at the time of transition to the opening/closing execution mode is resumed (however, the color before the transition to the opening/closing execution mode is not inherited). After that, processing is performed to take over the display of the hold display section 500X of the variable winning device 82X to the hold display area NE. For example, if the emitting color of the unit hold display section of the hold display section 500X is changed to "blue" or "red," the changed color is applied to the hold icon MP displayed in the hold display area NE. The color of the emitted light and the display of the hold icon MP are changed in a similar manner.

The flow of the special performance will be described below with reference to the schematic diagrams of FIGS. 46 to 49. In FIGS. 46 and 47, if the special effect occurs during the special game state (opening/closing execution mode) and the cumulative number of over-wins reaches "7" by winning the special effect lottery, the special effect execution conditions are all fulfilled. An example is given of the case where this is true.

After shifting to the opening/closing execution mode, over-winning occurs every round, and at the end of the 8th round, the cumulative number of over-winning is "5". I won the special production lottery in the lottery when I won the 5th over. In the example shown in FIG. 46, the number of reservations at this point is four, and among the unit reservation display sections of the reservation display section 500X, the first unit reservation display section to the fourth unit reservation display section are displayed with light emission, and the The 5th unit pending display section to the 8th unit pending display section are displayed as being off. Occurrence of special performance At the timing of winning the lottery, the performance mode of the special performance (change pattern of light emitting color in each unit reservation display section) is determined. However, at this point, the cumulative number of over-wins has not yet reached "7", so the start of the special performance will be postponed.

In this embodiment, the number of pending games is clearly displayed in both the pending display area NE of the display screen 253a and the pending display section 500X during the normal gaming state. However, in the normal gaming state, while an effect (notice effect) that changes the color of the hold icon MP is executed in the hold display area NE, such a notice effect is not executed in the hold display area 500X. (See Figure 48). Therefore, all the emitted light colors are "white" until a special effect is executed after the transition to the opening/closing execution mode and the emitted light color is changed.

In the example shown in FIG. 46, over-winning occurs during the validity period of the 12th round, and the cumulative number of over-winning is "7", and this triggers the start of displaying a sign of the special performance. Specifically, the display mode of the hold display section 500X has been switched from a lighting display to a blinking display. This suggests to the player that the emitted light color may be changed.

At the timing when the interval time of the 12th round elapses, the display mode of the unit reservation display section is switched from blinking display to lighting display. Here, for example, it is determined that the third hold information among the four stored hold information corresponds to the jackpot result, and the light emitting color of the third unit hold display section is changed from white to red. In this case, the color of the light emitted from the third unit hold display section is changed from white to red in accordance with the switching to the lighting display. On the other hand, if all of the four stored hold information corresponds to completely missed or missed normal reach, and it is determined that the emitted light color will not be changed, each emitted light color will continue even after switching to the lighting display. remains white.

A hold icon MP is displayed on the display screen 253a (hold display area NE) at a predetermined timing after the 16th round ends and the round game shifts to the ending. At this timing, the color of all pending icons MP is white, which is the basic color. Even at this point, the emitted light color in the hold display section 500X remains unchanged.

At the handover timing before the end of the ending (end of opening/closing execution mode), the emission color of the third unit hold display section of the hold display section 500X is changed from red to white, and the third unit hold display area Da3 in the hold number display area Da is changed. The color of the pending icon MP currently displayed is changed from white to red. Thereby, the pending notice will be taken over from the pending display section 500X to the symbol display device 253 (pending display area NE). This prevents the player's attention from remaining on the variable winning device 82X side after the transition to the normal game state, and prevents the player from overlooking the display effect on the symbol display device 253.

In the example shown in FIGS. 46 and 47, the player wins the special performance lottery at the timing when the cumulative number of over-wins reaches "5". As shown in FIG. 48, at the time of this winning, the pending information whose emitted light color is to be changed by the special effect is limited to the pending information that has been stored by the timing of the winning. However, the special performance does not start at this point, but is delayed until at least the cumulative number of over-wins reaches "7". If a winning occurs in the actuating ports 83a, 83b during this delay and new pending information is acquired, these pending information will also be added to the luminescent color change target. By increasing the number of targets in this way, the chances of winning a jackpot through special effects are increased. This is preferable in order to suppress a decrease in expectations for the special performance and to improve the level of attention to the game.

According to the second embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

In the special gaming state, after the variable winning device 82X enters the open state, variable winnings are made based on the number of winnings to the variable winning device 82X reaching the ending standard number (equivalent to the "specified number") which is the upper limit number. Device 82X switches to the closed state. If a winning occurs in the variable winning device 82X just before the end of the round (just before switching to the closed state), the number of winnings in the round will exceed the above-mentioned end reference number. According to the configuration shown in this embodiment, a special effect that suggests a specific result related to stored pending information is executed based on the occurrence of a ball entering exceeding the end standard number (over winning). . With such a configuration, the monotony of the game in the special game state can be suppressed, and the player who expects suggestions of pending information can be directed to the variable winning device 82X and the movement of the game ball toward the variable winning device 82X. can attract attention.

As described above, in the configuration in which a special performance is executed based on an over-win (a configuration that suggests a specific result related to pending information), since the player's attention is directed to the variable winning device 82X, an over-win occurs → immediately. When a special performance starts, it is assumed that there is a high possibility that the start of the special performance will be missed. There is concern that this will be a factor that reduces the impact of the special performance. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, by providing a grace period between the provisional determination of the special performance and the actual start of the special performance, players who are paying attention to the variable winning device 82X, etc. It is possible to reduce the possibility of missing the start of a special performance and suppress a drop in the impact of the special performance.

In addition, in a configuration in which a special performance lottery is performed based on over-winning, for example, even if it is tentatively determined that the special performance will occur based on over-winning, if pending information is not stored, the special performance will not be executed. The premise of doing so would be destroyed. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, special information newly acquired while the start of the special performance is delayed is first specified, and based on the pending information stored at the start of the special performance, By adopting a configuration that determines the mode of performance, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In this embodiment, a special performance is tentatively determined based on over-winning, and the tentatively determined special performance is started. In this way, by configuring the various conditions related to the special performance to be established by aiming at the variable winning device 82X, even when playing a game in anticipation of a special performance, the original game in the special game state without impairing the flow of the flow. Therefore, the effect of suppressing monotony of the game in the special game state while ensuring smooth progress of the game can be suitably exhibited.

As described above, in the special game state, it is assumed that players who expect to win prize balls pay attention to the variable winning device 82X. In this embodiment, a special performance is executed by a hold display section 500X (corresponding to a "suggestion means") provided in a variable winning device 82X (near the big prize opening 82a). (suggests specific results). With such a configuration, when a suggestion is made during the special game state, the suggestion is easily seen by the player who is paying attention to the variable winning device 82X, and it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. Thereby, it is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of increasing the attention to the game through the special performance on the hold display section 500X.

<Modification 1>
In the over-win handling process shown in the second embodiment, a special performance lottery is performed using an over-win as a trigger, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the occurrence of a special performance is provisionally determined when the number of over-wins (for example, cumulative number) reaches a specific number. This specific number may be the same as the cumulative number of over-wins (7) that triggers the start of the special performance, or may be a smaller number.

Note that the number of over-wins that trigger the start of the special performance is arbitrary. For example, it may be one piece, two to six pieces, or eight pieces. Further, the predetermined number may be individually set depending on the type of jackpot (particularly the number of rounds). For example, a difference may be provided so that the second predetermined number set for the 16R jackpot result is greater than the first predetermined number set for the 8R jackpot result, or the second predetermined number set for the 16R jackpot result is greater than the first predetermined number. A difference may be provided so that the second predetermined number is smaller.

<Modification 2>
In the second embodiment, the special effect lottery is performed on the premise that the reservation information is stored when an excessive winning occurs, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which when an over-win occurs, a winning presentation lottery is performed regardless of whether or not pending information is stored. However, since we cannot deny the possibility that pending information is not stored when transitioning to the special gaming state, when making the above change, at least one pending information must be stored as one of the conditions for starting the special performance. It would be good to add that. According to the configuration shown in this modified example, it is possible to suppress the inability to successfully secure an opportunity to generate a special performance. In particular, in the case of a jackpot in the first normal gaming state compatible with the low-frequency support mode, there is a high possibility that the number of stored pending information is 0, so the effect of the configuration shown in this modification is It becomes noticeable.

<Modification 3>
In the reservation notice confirmation process (FIG. 41) shown in the second embodiment, when it is confirmed that the stored reservation information includes reservation information corresponding to a jackpot, , the suspension information stored after the relevant suspension information is configured such that confirmation of validity is not performed, but the present invention is not limited to this. Since the type of jackpot is also confirmed for the hold information corresponding to the jackpot, it is also possible to specify the type of normal gaming state to which the game will be transferred after the game round related to the hold information. Therefore, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the validity of the reservation information stored after the above is also checked based on the specified gaming state.

<Modification 4>
In the second embodiment, a reach determination table corresponding to the first normal gaming state, a reach determination table corresponding to the second normal gaming state, and a reach determination table corresponding to the third normal gaming state are provided. is used in combination, and the probability of reaching occurrence is different in each normal game state, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure the reach occurrence probability to be the same in any normal game state.

Further, in the second embodiment, the distribution of reach types is configured to be the same for all normal gaming states, but it is possible to configure the distribution of reach types to be different depending on the type of normal gaming state. is also possible. For example, a reach type distribution table corresponding to the first normal gaming state, a reach type distribution table corresponding to the second normal gaming state, and a reach type distribution table corresponding to the third normal gaming state are individually provided, and It is also possible to provide a difference so that the distribution of super reach increases in the order of normal gaming state < second normal gaming state < third normal gaming state.

<Modification 5>
In the second embodiment, during the special game state, the hold display (display of the hold icon MP) on the display screen 253a (hold display area NE) is not performed except when the above-mentioned handover occurs. At least in the special game state, it is sufficient that the execution target of the reservation notice is switched from the symbol display device 253 to the reservation display section 500X, and this does not negate the configuration in which the symbol display device 253 continues to display the reservation even in the special game state. .

<Modification 6>
In the second embodiment, the reservation display section 500X is disposed below the opening/closing body 82b, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It is sufficient that it is disposed at least near the opening/closing body 82b, and it is also possible to dispose it above or to the side of the opening/closing body 82b. However, even when such a change in arrangement is made, the number of reservations is longer than the distance from the reservation number display area Da (more specifically, the eighth unit reservation display area Da8) where the reservation icon MP is displayed on the symbol display device 253. It is preferable to provide a difference such that the distance to the display section 500X is shorter. In addition, it is not necessarily necessary to mount the reservation display section 500X on the variable prize winning device 82X. For example, it is also possible to mount the reservation display section 500X on the center frame or the like.

<Modification 7>
In the second embodiment, in the special gaming state, when an over-win occurs, it is configured to use the over-win as a trigger to check whether or not the stored pending information indicates that the jackpot has been won. did. This is changed so that, when pending information is acquired based on winnings to actuating ports 83a and 83b during a special gaming state, it is checked whether or not the pending information has won a jackpot. is also possible. In such a configuration, it is preferable to add the confirmation result to the hold command corresponding to the hold information and send it to the notification/effect control device 140.

<Modification 8>
In the second embodiment described above, the special effect is started based on an over-win, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to set the starting condition for the special performance to something other than over-winning. For example, it is also possible to configure a special effect to be started based on the completion or start of a predetermined round.

<Modification 9>
If execution of a special performance is tentatively determined by a lottery at the time of over-winning, it may be configured to indicate this. For example, it is also possible to suggest a tentative decision by switching the display mode of the hold display section 500X from a lit display to a slow blinking display when a tentative decision is made, and switch to a fast blinking display in the predictive effect. . Note that whether or not to perform the slow blinking display may be determined by lottery, or the slow blinking display may be determined at the time of tentative determination. Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the suggestion mode to be changed depending on whether or not the stored pending information includes information corresponding to a jackpot result. For example, the light emission level of the hold display section 500X may be set to a light emission level where the expectation of a jackpot is relatively high and a light emission level where the expectation of a jackpot is relatively low.

<Modification 10>
Occurrence of special performance when over-winning occurs The specific configuration for delaying the start timing of the special performance from the timing of winning in the lottery is arbitrary. For example, it is also possible to set the start condition for the special performance at the timing of winning the special performance occurrence lottery. Specifically, the start condition may be set so that the special effect starts in a round (for example, the next round) that is executed after the round in which the special effect occurs. A start condition may be set so that the special performance is started when the number of prizes won in the variable prize winning device 82X reaches a specific number after winning the lottery, or the special performance may be started when the ending starts. Conditions may be set.

<Modification 11>
In the second embodiment described above, the probability that a miss-reach occurs increases in the order of the first normal gaming state < the second normal gaming state < the third normal gaming state, but the invention is not limited to this. do not have. It is arbitrary what kind of difference is provided in the probability of occurrence of a missed reach between the first normal game state to the third normal game state. For example, it may be configured such that the probability that a miss-reach occurs increases in the order of third normal gaming state < second normal gaming state < first normal gaming state. Further, it may be configured such that the probability of occurrence of a missed reach is the same in the first normal game state to the third normal game state.

<Modification 12>
In the second embodiment described above, in the normal gaming state, a pending notice (performance) is performed in the pending display area NE of the display screen 253a, and in the special gaming state, the pending notice is displayed in the pending display section 500X of the variable winning device 82X. (performance), but the specific structure may be changed arbitrarily as long as it is possible to switch the target for which the pending notice is given in two different gaming states. For example, in the first normal gaming state, a pending notice (performance) is performed in the pending display area NE of the display screen 253a, and in the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state, the pending notice is displayed in the pending display area 500X of the variable winning device 82X. It is also possible to have a configuration in which a pending notice (performance) is given.

<Modification 13>
In the second embodiment described above, the special performance is executed in response to over-winning, but the trigger for executing the special performance is arbitrary. For example, although the special effect is executed when a predetermined round is reached, the special effect may be executed when a prize is won in the variable winning device 82X during a predetermined period. It is possible.

<Modification 14>
In the second embodiment, the emitted light color of the hold display section 500X is changed during the interval, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the emitted light color of the reservation display section 500X is changed at least during the special game state, and the timing of the change is arbitrary.

<Modification 15>
In the second embodiment, the special performance lottery is performed based on over winnings under the condition where the reservation information is stored, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which a lottery for generating a special performance is performed based on an over-win in a situation where no pending information is stored. In this case, it is preferable that the special performance is started with one of the conditions being that the suspension information has been acquired after the execution of the special performance has been tentatively determined.

<Third embodiment>
In the second embodiment, when a ball enters the ball entry section of the variable winning device 82X or the like during the special game state and a prize ball is awarded to the player, the total number of prize balls is It is configured to be displayed on the display screen 253a (specifically, the upper right part) of the symbol display device 253. However, since the game balls fired to the right route can enter not only the variable winning device 82X but also the lower operating port 83b and the general winning port 81, the cumulative number of over winnings can be determined from the total number of winning balls. It has become difficult (virtually impossible) to do so. Since the lottery probability of the special performance changes (increases) or the special performance is started depending on the cumulative number of over-wins, the player needs to count the cumulative number by himself in order to understand these behaviors. However, in most cases, over-winning occurs at a momentary timing, and it is practically difficult to completely grasp the movement of the game ball.

The pachinko machine shown in this embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that a display device 300Y is provided as a notification means for notifying the cumulative number of over-wins in a manner that allows players to identify the cumulative number of over-wins. The configuration is different. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 50, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment. FIG. 50(a) is a partially enlarged view of the game board unit 80Y showing the variable winning device 82Y and its surroundings in the third embodiment, and FIG. 50(b) is a schematic view of the display unit 350Y.

The variable prize winning device 82Y in this embodiment is provided with the display device 300Y. The display device 300Y is located near the opening/closing body 82b (big winning opening 82a) and is visible from the front of the gaming machine through the front face of the variable winning device 82Y. In other words, the opening/closing body 82b and the display device 300Y are easily visible to the player who is paying attention to the movement of the opening/closing body 82b, so that the opening/closing body 82b and the display device 300Y can be viewed simultaneously.

The display device 300Y has the same basic configuration as the first movable presentation device 300 shown in the first embodiment, and includes a display unit 350Y in which a plurality of unit structures 355Y are arranged in a ring shape. Become. The unit structure 355Y is arranged so as to surround the detection area DE of the ball entry detection sensor attached to the variable winning device 82Y, and has a configuration that does not hinder the visibility of game balls passing through the detection area DE. Although details will be described later, the display format of the display unit 350Y shown in this embodiment can be switched in the same way as the display unit 350Y shown in the first embodiment, but which display format can be used. Even in the case where the detection area DE is overlapped with the detection area DE, the visibility of the detection area DE described above is ensured.

Here, while the decorative unit 350 shown in the first embodiment has a structure in which all the unit structures 355 are switched to the initial state/bent state at once using the link mechanism 340, the present embodiment The display unit 350Y shown in the embodiment is different in that each unit structure 355Y is individually switched to the initial state/bent state.

Specifically, in the display unit 350Y, the first unit structure 355aY, the second unit structure 355bY, the third unit structure 355cY, the fourth unit structure 355dY, and the fifth unit structure 355eY are arranged in an annular shape. Although similar to the first embodiment in that they are arranged in the same manner as in the first embodiment, a drive section for the first unit structure 355aY, a drive section for the second unit structure 355bY, and a drive section for the second unit structure 355bY are provided on the base plate of the display device 300Y. A drive section for the 3-unit structure 355cY, a drive section for the 4th unit structure 355dY, and a drive section for the 5th unit structure 355eY are individually mounted, and each unit configuration can be controlled by controlling these drive sections. The difference is that a configuration is realized in which the bodies 355aY to 355eY are individually switched to the initial state/bent state. In the above embodiment, the ends of the adjacent unit structures 355 are connected to each other, but this embodiment is different in that the unit structures 355aY to 355eY are not connected.

The display unit 350Y shown in this embodiment can be switched to "6" display formats, and these display formats are associated with the values of the over winning number counters provided in the various counter areas 465 of the RAM 444. It is being

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 52, there is an initial form in which each unit structure 355aY to 355eY is in an initial state and the appearance is pentagonal, and an initial form in which the first unit structure 355aY is in a bent state and the second unit structure is in a pentagonal shape. A first display mode in which the body 355bY to the fifth unit structure 355eY are in the initial state, and a first display mode in which the first unit structure 355aY to the second unit structure 355bY are in the bent state and the third unit structure 355cY to the fifth unit structure. A second display mode in which the body 355eY is in the initial state, the first unit structure 355aY to the third unit structure 355cY are in the bent state, and the fourth unit structure 355dY to the fifth unit structure 355eY are in the initial state. A third display mode in which the first unit structure 355aY to fourth unit structure 355dY are in a bent state and a fifth unit structure 355eY is in an initial state, and each unit structure 355aY to 355eY is in a bent state and can be switched to a fifth display form in which the appearance is star-shaped. For the initial format, the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "0", for the first display format, the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "1", and for the second display format, the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "1". The number corresponds to "2", the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "3" for the third display format, and the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "4" for the fourth display format. As for the fifth display form, the cumulative number of over winnings corresponds to "5". By adding up the cumulative number of over winnings, the display form is switched from the initial form to the first display form to the second display form to the third display form to the fourth display form to the fifth display form to the sixth display form. With such a configuration, the player can immediately identify the current cumulative number of over-wins from the display form (appearance) of the display unit 350Y. In addition, when the cumulative number of over-wins exceeds "7", the display format is not switched based on over-wins.

Here, in this embodiment, if the cumulative number of over winnings reaches "6" (hereinafter referred to as the reference number) before the start of the ending in a situation where at least one pending information is stored, , the special performance is started. When the cumulative number of over-wins reaches the reference number, the display unit 350Y starts rotating, thereby clearly indicating to the player that a special performance is to be started.

Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 51, the process for notifying the number of over winnings (processing for notifying the number of over winnings) executed by the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 will be described. The over winning number reporting process is a process that is executed as part of the regular process during the special game state.

(Process for notifying the number of over winnings)
In the excessive winning number reporting process, first, in step S1901, it is determined whether or not the opening/closing execution mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S1901, the process for notifying the number of over winnings is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1901, the process advances to step S1902. In step S1902, it is determined whether it is the end timing of the opening/closing execution mode. If a negative determination is made in step S1902, the process advances to step S1903. In step S1903, it is determined whether the second winning command has been received from the main control device 162. If a negative determination is made in step S1903, the process for notifying the number of over winnings is immediately terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1903, the process advances to step S1904.

In step S1904, the value of the over winning number counter provided in the various counter areas 465 of the RAM 444 is updated (specifically, it is incremented by 1). In the following step S1905, it is determined whether or not the value of the over winning number counter is less than the reference number. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1905, the process advances to step S1906. In step S1906, display format switching processing for the display unit 350Y is executed. Specifically, the unit structure 355Y to be switched from the initial state to the bent state is specified, and a drive signal is output to the drive section corresponding to the unit structure 355Y. As a result, the unit structure 355 switches from the initial state to the permissible state, and the display form of the display unit 350Y also switches. The drive signal whose output has been started in this manner continues to be output until the display form of the display unit 350Y returns to the initial form upon completion of the special game state.

Returning to the explanation of step S1905 in FIG. 52, if the cumulative number of over-wins is equal to or greater than the reference number, the process advances to step S1907. In step S1907, it is determined whether the cumulative number of over winnings matches the reference number. If a negative determination is made in step S1907, the process for notifying the number of over winnings is immediately terminated. If a negative determination is made in step S1907, the process advances to step S1908.

In step S1908, rotation start processing is executed. Specifically, output of a drive signal to the stepping motor 371 of the display device 300Y is started, and the rotation operation of the display unit 350Y is started. The output of the drive signal to the stepping motor 371 will continue until the special game state ends. In the following step S1909, production mode determination processing is executed. The details of this performance mode determination process are the same as the performance mode determination process in step S1710, so the explanation will be omitted.

Here, as described above, the drive section for each unit structure 355Y is mounted on the base plate 330, and rotates together with the base plate 330 when the display unit 350Y rotates. In the power supply mechanism 360 of the display device 300Y, connection terminals for supplying power to each drive unit are individually provided, and a power supply path to these drive units is ensured even during rotation. There is. Note that the second arm member 365 shown in the second embodiment is attached to the fifth unit structure 355eY, but the fifth unit structure 355eY is attached at the time of the last display mode switching. It has a deformable structure, and suppresses deterioration in appearance due to the fact that the decoration body 385 of the second movable presentation device 380 is not attached.

Returning to the explanation of step S1902, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1902, that is, if it is the end timing of the opening/closing execution mode, the process advances to step S1910. In step S1910, processing is performed to return the display unit 350Y to its initial state. That is, the output of drive signals to each drive section is stopped in order to set the display format to the initial format and complete the circulating operation.

Here, the flow of the special performance will be illustrated with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 53. In addition, in FIG. 53, the case where the cumulative number of over winnings is "2" is illustrated.

After shifting to the special performance at the timing tb1, the variable winning device 82Y switches from the closed state to the open state at the timing tb2, and the ball is allowed to enter the big winning hole 82a. The first round ends at timing tb3 when the number of game balls detected by the ball entry detection sensor attached to the variable winning device 82Y reaches "10" after the start of the first round. Immediately after this, when the first over-win occurs at timing tb4, which is during the interval after the end of the first round, the output of the drive signal to the drive for the first unit structure 355aY is started, and the display The display form of unit 350Y will be switched from the initial form to the first display form. As a result, the player is notified that the cumulative number of over winnings has become "1".

At timing tb5, the variable prize winning device 82Y is switched to the open state again, and the second round has started. The second round ends at timing tb6 when the number of game balls detected by the ball entry detection sensor reaches "10" after the start of the second round. Immediately after this, when the second over winning occurs at timing tb7, which is during the interval after the end of the second round, the output of the drive signal to the drive for the second unit structure 355bY is started. By inputting the drive signal to the drive unit for the second unit structure 355bY to the display unit 350Y together with the drive signal to the drive unit for the first unit structure 355aY whose output was started at the end of the first round, The display form of the display unit 350Y is switched from the first display form to the second display form. As a result, the player is informed that the cumulative number of over winnings has become "2".

When switching from the first display mode to the second display mode is performed, the first unit structure 355aY corresponding to the cumulative number of over winnings "1" is maintained in the deformed state. In other words, even if the "second" over-winning occurs, the display indicating the "first" over-winning will continue. As a result, in a configuration where the appearance of the display format changes in stages, even if the previous change is overlooked, it is possible to easily grasp the current cumulative number of over-wins after the fact. There is.

After that, the transition is made to the ending at the timing of tb14, but the cumulative number of over-wins during that time remains "2", and the display format of the display unit 350Y is the second display until the transition to the ending. The form is maintained. Thereafter, the display form of the display unit 350Y returns from the second display form to the initial form in accordance with the end of the special game state at timing tb14.

According to the third embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

In the special game state, the opening and closing operations of the variable winning device 82Y are repeated. Here, if the number of winnings to the variable winning device 82Y reaches the upper limit ending standard number (corresponding to the "specified number") after the variable winning device 82Y is in the open state, this will be used as an opportunity to The variable winning device 82Y will be switched to the closed state. In this way, if a winning occurs in the variable winning device 82Y after the conditions for switching to the closed state are established until the switching to the closed state is actually completed, the original prize ball (privilege) Many prize balls (benefits) will be given to the player. This is a favorable phenomenon for players who want to obtain as many prize balls as possible. However, considering that prize balls are awarded even for balls that enter before the above-mentioned end standard number is reached, there is a possibility that the extra prize balls may be overlooked because they are mixed in with the regular prize balls. becomes higher. Particularly, when the switch from the open state to the closed state is quickly performed, it may be difficult to grasp the above-described impending ball entry. Here, according to the present embodiment, by storing the cumulative number of winnings that exceed the end standard number (over winning number) and notifying the cumulative number so that the player can identify it, the above-mentioned The occurrence of various inconveniences can be suppressed. This is preferable in order to increase attention to the game in a special game state that tends to be monotonous.

When the cumulative number of over winnings increases, the display form of the display device 300Y (display unit 350Y) is switched in a predetermined order. With the configuration in which the display form and the cumulative number are linked in this way, the player can easily grasp the cumulative number by checking the display form of the display unit 350Y at any timing.

The unit structure 355Y, which was switched from the initial state to the bent state in the previous display mode switching, will be maintained in the bent state thereafter. In this way, by configuring a configuration in which the results of the previous display format switching are maintained (inherited) without being affected by the subsequent display format switching, the effect of making it easier to grasp the cumulative number is further improved. can be demonstrated.

When a plurality of winnings exceeding the end standard number occur all at once, if the unit structure 355Y is sequentially switched to the bent state, the time required to switch the display form will be prolonged. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, if the plurality of unit structures 355Y can be switched to the bent state simultaneously and in parallel, the above-described length of the required period can be suppressed. Particularly in a configuration where the round game is executed multiple times with an interval in between, while the variable winning device 82Y is in the open state, there is a chance to enjoy the prize ball (privilege) by winning a prize, so the player's attention is drawn to the variable prize winning device 82Y. Easy to face the device 82Y. Therefore, by shortening the period required for switching the display format as described above, it is possible to prevent the switching of the display format from exceeding the interval and extending into the next round. This is preferable in order to reduce the chance of overlooking the display format switching operation.

The display unit 350Y shown in this embodiment is configured such that each unit component 355Y approaches the central axis CL side when the unit component 355Y switches to the bent state. As a result, even if the player is focusing on the unit structure 355Y that started operating first, the unit structure 355Y that starts operating later is difficult to leave the player's field of view, and the display format is continuously switched. This can suitably prevent the switching operation from being overlooked in some cases.

<Modification 1>
In the third embodiment, the number of display formats of the switchable display unit 350Y is smaller than the reference number, but the number is not limited to this. The number of display formats of the switchable display unit 350Y may be the same as the reference number, or may be greater than the reference number. However, if the number of switchable display formats is increased, there is a concern that the structure of the display unit 350Y will become complicated and the difference in appearance between the display formats will become smaller. This makes it difficult to arrange the display unit 350Y close to the variable winning device 82Y. In view of these circumstances, the upper limit of the number of display formats of the switchable display unit 350Y is set based on a reference number, and the fact that the reference number has been reached is clearly indicated in a manner different from the switching of display formats. There is technical significance in doing so.

<Modification 2>
In the third embodiment, the bending state is switched in the following order: first unit structure 355aY → second unit structure 355bY → third unit structure 355cY → fourth unit structure 355dY → fifth unit structure 355eY However, the specific switching order is arbitrary as long as at least the switching order is determined. However, regarding the unit structure (fifth unit structure 355eY) to which the second arm member 365 constituting the power supply mechanism 360 is attached, placing it at the end of the above order may reduce the appearance of the display device 300Y. There is technical significance in that it can be suppressed.

<Modification 3>
It is sufficient that each unit structure 355aY to 355eY can be switched to the bent state in a preset order, and there is no need to separately provide a drive section corresponding to each unit structure 355aY to 355eY. For example, it is also possible to negate the configuration in which each unit structure 355aY to 355eY is switched to the bent state in a preset order using one drive section and link mechanism.

<Modification 4>
In the third embodiment, the cumulative number of over winnings is indirectly notified by switching the display format of the display device 300Y (display unit 350Y), but the cumulative number of over winnings is indicated by numbers and symbols. It is also possible to configure the notification directly. For example, in place of the display device 300Y, a counter-type display section that adds up as the cumulative number increases can be provided.

<Modification 5>
In the third embodiment, the variable winning device 82Y is provided with the display device 300Y as a notification means for notifying the cumulative number of over winnings in a way that allows the player to identify it. It is sufficient that the display unit 350Y is visible to the player from the front of the game machine. For example, the display device 300Y may be directly disposed on the game board 80a, or a decoration provided on the game board 80a may be used. It may be arranged in the front door frame 14 or the like.

<Modification 6>
It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which an image corresponding to the display device 300Y (display unit 350Y) shown in the third embodiment is displayed on a display screen such as a liquid crystal device. In this case, the display screen may be provided separately from the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, or an image corresponding to the display device 300Y (display unit 350Y) may be displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253. good.

<Modification 7>
In the third embodiment, the display form of the display unit 350Y switched during the special game state is maintained until the special game state ends, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the cumulative number of over-wins can be notified at least during the round game in which the variable winning device 82Y is opened and closed, and the display format after switching is maintained until the end of the round game, that is, the transition to the ending. It is also possible to have a configuration in which

Furthermore, in view of the fact that a special performance is executed in response to winning a prize, it may be configured such that the display format after switching is maintained until the start of the special performance, or the display format after switching may be maintained until the end of the special performance. It may also be configured to maintain its shape.

<Modification 8>
In the third embodiment, the display device 300Y is arranged below the big prize opening 82a (opening/closing body 82b), but the arrangement of the display device 300Y is arbitrary. For example, it is also possible to arrange above the big winning opening 82a (opening/closing body 82b) or to the side of the big winning opening 82a (opening/closing body 82b).

Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange the display device 300Y between the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 and the big prize opening 82a (opening/closing body 82b). In particular, in a configuration in which the total number of prize balls in the special game state is displayed on the display screen 253a, the display device 300Y may be disposed between the display location of the total number and the big prize opening 82a (opening/closing body 82b). This makes it possible to realize a practically preferable configuration.

<Other embodiments>
Note that the present invention is not limited to the contents described in each of the embodiments described above, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to each of the above embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or part of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects exhibited) of each configuration to be combined is ensured. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or a part or all of them may be applied in combination.

(1) In each of the above embodiments, the game ball launched to the right route in the game area PE is configured to avoid entering the upper operating port 83a, but the configuration is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the game ball fired to the right route is also allowed to enter the upper operating port 83a.

Further, although the game ball fired to the left route in the game area PE is configured to be able to enter the lower operating port 83b, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the game ball fired to the left route is prevented from entering the lower operating port 83b.

(2) A game round based on the ball entering the upper operating port 83a and a game round based on the ball entering the lower operating port 83b may be performed in parallel. For example, if there is both holding information based on the ball entering the upper operating port 83a and holding information based on the ball entering the lower operating port 83b, the symbol corresponding to the holding information regarding the upper operating port 83a is A variable display area and a variable display area of a symbol corresponding to the hold information related to the lower operation opening 83b may be formed in the display screen 253a, and both variable displays may be performed in parallel in each variable display area. good.

(3) In each of the above embodiments, when the main controller 162 performs a lottery based on the hold information related to the operation ports 83a and 83b, the main display unit 87 is displayed at the same time as the lottery (specifically, immediately after the lottery). Although the configuration is such that the variable display of the symbols on the operating port display section and the variable display of the symbols on the symbol display device 253 are started, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the fluctuating display of the symbols on the operating port display section or the fluctuating display of the symbols on the symbol display device 253 is started prior to the lottery.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, the holding information related to the upper operating port 83a (corresponding to the "ball entry section") and the holding information relating to the lower operating port 83b (corresponding to the "ball entry section") are Although the configuration is such that the information is digested in the order in which it occurs, it is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured to preferentially digest the pending information related to the upper operating port 83a, or it may be configured to preferentially digest the pending information related to the lower operating port 83b.

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the "ball entrance part" is configured to have the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b, but the number of operating ports does not necessarily have to be plural, and may be one. Good too.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, a difference in advantage is provided between the lottery related to the upper operating port 83a and the lottery related to the lower operating port 83b, but a configuration in which no difference in advantage is provided for each lottery Good too. Further, it is also possible to reverse the advantageous/disadvantageous relationship so that the lottery related to the upper operating port 83a is more advantageous to the player than the lottery related to the lower operating port 83b.

(6) In each of the above embodiments, after the special game state ends, the normal game state supports a high probability mode and high frequency support mode with no limit on the number of times, or the normal game mode supports a low frequency support mode and high frequency support mode with a limit on the number of times. Although the configuration for transitioning to the state (so-called definite change machine) has been illustrated, the present invention is not limited to this. The technical idea shown in each of the above embodiments can also be applied to a configuration (so-called ST machine) that shifts to a normal gaming state that supports a high probability mode with a limit on the number of times and a high frequency support mode after the end of the special gaming state. It is.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 is configured to display the total number of game balls paid out during the special game state (total number acquired) in the upper right corner. , the display position of the total number is arbitrary. Further, although the above-mentioned total number includes the number of game balls paid out based on winnings to the general winning opening 81 and the operating openings 83a and 83b, it is not limited to this. The above-mentioned total number can also be the total number of game balls paid out based on winnings to the variable winning device 82. However, in order to increase player satisfaction in the special gaming state, it is not recommended to display the total number by including the number of game balls paid out based on balls entering the ball entering section other than the variable winning device 82. It has technical significance.

(8) In the variable winning device 82 shown in each of the above embodiments, the big winning hole 82a is formed to face upward, but the direction of the big winning hole 82a is arbitrary. For example, it may be formed to face sideways or may be formed to face forward.

In addition, although the opening/closing body 82b of the variable winning device 82 was configured to open and close the big winning opening 82a by sliding in the front-back direction, it is configured to open and close the big winning opening 82a by rotating in the front-back direction. It is also possible.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, the main control device 162 determines the outline of the variable display mode (effect) on the symbol display device 253, and the notification/effect control device 140 determines the details of the variable display mode (effect). However, the configuration is not limited to this. It is also possible to transfer the function of determining details of the variable display mode (effect) from the notification/effect control device 140 to the main control device 162.

(10) In each of the above embodiments, the notification/effect control device 140 and the display control device 410 are provided separately, but it is also possible to provide one control device that integrates the functions of each of these control devices 140 and 410. .

(11) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiments, such as pachinko machines in which an electric accessory is released a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of a special device, or a pachinko machine that opens a game ball in a specific area of a special device. The present invention can also be applied to gaming machines such as a pachinko machine in which a jackpot is generated when a ball enters the machine, a pachinko machine equipped with other accessories, an arranged ball machine, and a mahjong ball machine.

In addition, non-pinball type game machines, for example, are equipped with multiple reels with multiple types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction, and rotation of the reels is started by inserting a medal and operating a start lever, and a stop switch is operated. The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine that gives a player a benefit such as a payout of medals if a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on an active line that can be seen from a display window after the reels have stopped. can be applied.

Furthermore, the game machine main body supported by the outer frame in an openable and closable manner is provided with a storage section and a take-in device, and the start lever is operated after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage section are taken in by the take-in device. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that is a combination of a pachinko machine and a slot machine, which starts the rotation of the reels by doing so.

<About the invention group extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the features of the invention group extracted from each of the embodiments described above will be explained, showing effects etc. as necessary. In the following, for ease of understanding, configurations corresponding to the above embodiments are appropriately indicated in parentheses, etc., but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in parentheses.

<Characteristics Group A>
The following feature group A is ``Some gaming machines, such as pachinko machines, are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a pattern on the display screen in a fluctuating manner. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery In , a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1). In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase attention to games.'' This was done with a problem to be solved.

Feature A1. A movable body (decoration unit 350), a base body (housing 310) that holds the movable body so that it can rotate, a movable body side terminal (connection terminal 367) provided on the movable body side, and a base provided on the base body side. It has a body side terminal (connection terminal 363), and the contact between the movable body side terminal and the base body side terminal connects at least a part of the power supply path (supply line SL) from the power supply unit (notification/effect control device 140) to the movable body. A supply path forming means (power supply mechanism 360) for forming the
The supply path forming means is disposed at the center of rotation of the movable body, and when the movable body rotates, one of the movable body side terminal and the base body side terminal connects to the outer peripheral portion of the other according to the rotation. A gaming machine characterized in that the movable body side terminal and the base body side terminal are maintained in contact with each other by sliding along the movable body side terminal.

According to feature A1, a power supply path to the movable body is ensured even during orbit. If it is possible to supply power while the movable body is circulating in this manner, it is possible to cause the movable body to emit light while the movable body is orbiting, thereby improving the appearance of the performance using the movable body. In addition, by forming a power supply path with a sliding type terminal, it is possible to prevent the power supply wiring from wrapping around the movable body or the base body as it moves around, and the relationship with the length of the wiring etc. Therefore, it is possible to avoid restrictions on the number of revolutions of the movable body. Increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the movable body in this manner is preferable in terms of improving the appearance of the performance and increasing the degree of attention to the game. In particular, as shown in this feature, by arranging the movable body side terminal and the base body side terminal at the rotation center of the movable body, the terminal (In particular, the movable body side terminals) can be miniaturized. This is advantageous in reducing the weight of the movable body and improving the responsiveness of the orbiting motion, and is preferable in order to suitably exhibit the above-mentioned attention-grabbing effect.

Feature A2. A gaming machine equipped with a performance device (first movable performance device 300) that performs a game performance (special performance) as the game progresses,
The performance device is
a base body (housing 310);
a decoration body (decoration unit 350) that is mounted on the base body and can be switched to a first display form (first form) and a second display form (second form) having a different external shape from the first display form;
a drive unit (stepping motor 371 for rotation operation) that rotates the decoration around a predetermined position (center axis CL) when the decoration is in the second display mode;
a decoration body side terminal (connection terminal 367) provided on a predetermined portion (second arm member 365) disposed at the predetermined position in the decoration body upon switching from the first display mode to the second display mode; A base body side terminal (connection terminal 363) provided on the base body and in contact with the decoration body side terminal is provided, and the decoration is transmitted from the power supply unit (notification/presentation control device 140) by contact of the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal. a supply route forming means (power supply mechanism 360) configured to form at least a part of a power supply route (supply line SL) to the body;
When the decoration in the second display mode revolves around the predetermined position, the supply path forming means causes one of the decoration body-side terminal and the base body-side terminal to move around the outer periphery of the other according to the rotation. A game machine characterized by being configured to maintain a contact state between the decoration body side connection terminal and the base body side connection terminal by sliding along the parts.

According to feature A2, a power supply path to the decoration is ensured even during the rotation. If it is possible to supply power while the decoration is going around in this way, it is possible to cause the decoration to emit light while it is going around, thereby improving the appearance of the performance using the decoration. In addition, by forming a power supply path with a sliding type terminal, it is possible to prevent the power supply wiring from wrapping around the decorative body or base body as it moves around, and the relationship with the length of the wiring, etc. Therefore, it is possible to avoid restrictions on the number of turns of the decoration. Increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the decoration in this way is preferable in terms of improving the appearance of the performance and increasing the degree of attention to the game. In particular, as shown in this feature, by arranging the decorative body side terminal and the base body side terminal at the rotation center of the decorative body, the terminal (Especially the terminals on the decorative body side) can be miniaturized. This is advantageous in reducing the weight of the decoration and improving the responsiveness of the orbiting motion, and is preferable in order to suitably exhibit the above-mentioned attention-grabbing effect.

Feature A3. Information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (retention information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (award winning to the operating ports 83a, 83b); ,
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the result of the determination by the transition determination means being a transition compatible result that corresponds to the predetermined transition information, the gaming state is changed to a special gaming state (open/closed) more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. a gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162),
A gaming machine comprising a performance device (first movable performance device 300) that executes a game performance (special performance) based on a determination result by the transition determination means,
The performance device is
a base body (housing 310);
a decoration body (decoration unit 350) that is mounted on the base body and can be switched to a first display form (first form) and a second display form (second form) having a different external shape from the first display form;
a drive unit (stepping motor 371 for rotation operation) that rotates the decoration around a predetermined position (center axis CL) when the decoration is in the second display mode;
a decoration body side terminal (connection terminal 367) provided on a predetermined portion (second arm member 365) disposed at the predetermined position in the decoration body upon switching from the first display mode to the second display mode; A base body side terminal (connection terminal 363) provided on the base body and in contact with the decoration body side terminal is provided, and the decoration is transmitted from the power supply unit (notification/presentation control device 140) by contact of the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal. a supply route forming means (power supply mechanism 360) configured to form at least a part of a power supply route (supply line SL) to the body;
When the decoration in the second display mode revolves around the predetermined position, the supply path forming means causes one of the decoration body-side terminal and the base body-side terminal to move around the outer periphery of the other according to the rotation. A game machine characterized by being configured to maintain a contact state between the decoration body side connection terminal and the base body side connection terminal by sliding along the parts.

According to feature A3, a power supply path to the decoration is ensured even during the rotation. If it is possible to supply power while the decoration is going around in this way, it is possible to cause the decoration to emit light while it is going around, thereby improving the appearance of the performance using the decoration. In addition, by forming a power supply path with a sliding type terminal, it is possible to prevent the power supply wiring from wrapping around the decorative body or base body as it moves around, and the relationship with the length of the wiring, etc. Therefore, it is possible to avoid restrictions on the number of turns of the decoration. Increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the decoration in this way is preferable in terms of improving the appearance of the performance and increasing the degree of attention to the game. In particular, as shown in this feature, by arranging the decorative body side terminal and the base body side terminal at the rotation center of the decorative body, the terminal (Especially the terminals on the decorative body side) can be miniaturized. This is advantageous in reducing the weight of the decoration and improving the responsiveness of the orbiting motion, and is preferable in order to suitably exhibit the above-mentioned attention-grabbing effect.

Feature A4. The gaming machine according to feature A2 or feature A3, wherein the outer peripheral portion of the other of the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal has an annular shape centered on the predetermined position.

As shown in feature A4, by forming the other terminal in an annular shape centered on a predetermined position that is the center of rotation of the decoration, the connecting terminal can be suitably miniaturized, and as shown in feature A2, etc. Various effects can be suitably exhibited.

Feature A5. The decorative body is configured to switch between the first display form and the second display form while maintaining the contact state between the decorative body side terminal and the base body side terminal in the supply path forming means. The gaming machine according to any one of features A2 to A4.

Even when switching between the first display mode and the second display mode, the power supply path remains formed. Therefore, the degree of freedom of expression can be suitably improved when, for example, the decoration is turned on/off when the display format is switched. Further, by sharing the power supply path in both display forms, it is possible to promote the simplification of the power supply path related to the presentation device.

Feature A6. The decorative body has an annular main body (five connected unit structures 355),
The gaming machine according to any one of features A2 to A5, wherein the predetermined position is a position on an axis (center axis CL) passing through the center of the main body.

As shown in this feature, by setting the predetermined position on the axis passing through the center of the annular main body, it is possible to suppress the shaking of the posture of the decorative object during the rotation. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the separation of the decorative body side terminal and the base body side terminal during rotation, and contribute to stabilizing the contact state.

Feature A7. The decorative body has an arm portion (second arm member 365) extending from the main body toward the center of the main body,
The gaming machine according to feature A6, wherein a tip end portion of the arm portion is the predetermined portion.

As shown in this feature, if the decoration side terminal is disposed on the arm extending from the main body toward the center, the second display form can secure a place for the decoration side terminal near the center. can be prevented from being restricted. This is advantageous in enhancing the impact of the performance by switching the display format.

Feature A8. The main body portion is provided with a portion that becomes convex toward the center of the main body portion when switching from the first display mode to the second display mode, and the arm portion is disposed in this convex portion. The gaming machine according to feature A7.

As shown in this feature, by providing the arm portion in a portion that becomes convex toward the center upon switching to the second display mode, the overall length of the arm portion can be shortened. This is preferable in order to prevent the appearance of the second display form from deteriorating due to securing the power supply path.

Feature A9. The arm portion is a first arm portion (second arm member 365) having the decoration side connection terminal provided at its tip,
A second arm portion (first arm member 361) is attached to the base body, and a second arm portion (first arm member 361) is provided with the base body side connection terminal at the tip end thereof;
A shaft portion (shaft portion 366) formed on one of the distal end portion of the first arm portion and the distal end portion of the second arm portion engages with a bearing portion (bearing portion 362) formed on the other. The gaming machine according to feature A7 or feature A8, wherein the first arm portion and the second arm portion are rotatably connected.

As shown in this feature, if the first arm part on the decorative body side and the second arm part on the base body side are rotatably connected, the technical idea shown in feature A7 etc. can be suitably realized. .

Feature A10. The game according to feature A9, characterized in that the other of the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal is attached to the shaft portion, and the outer peripheral portion is annular with the shaft portion as the center. Machine.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, even if the relative angle between the first arm part and the second arm part changes as the decoration goes around, the distance between the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal changes. This makes it possible to suppress the contact between the two terminals and maintain a good contact state between the two terminals.

Feature A11. The decorative body is a first decorative body, the presentation device is a first presentation device,
A second performance device (second movable performance device 380) that executes game performance as the game progresses;
The second presentation device includes a second decorative body (decoration body 385) movable between a first position (presentation position) that overlaps the predetermined position from the front of the gaming machine and a second position (standby position) that does not overlap the predetermined position. ),
A moving means is provided for moving the second decoration from the second position to the first position when the display form of the first decoration is switched from the first display form to the second display form. The gaming machine according to any one of features A2 to A10.

According to feature A11, at least a portion of the supply path forming means is covered from the front of the gaming machine by the second decoration, and the first presentation device can perform the game while coordinating with the first presentation device and the second presentation device. It is possible to suppress deterioration in appearance.

Feature A12. The gaming machine according to feature A11, wherein the moving means places the second decoration at the first position before the first decoration starts rotating.

By arranging the second decorative body at the first position before the start of the orbiting operation, the effect shown in feature A11 can be suitably exhibited.

Feature A13. A gaming machine equipped with a performance device (first movable performance device 300) that performs a game performance (special performance) as the game progresses,
The performance device is
a decoration body (decoration unit 350);
a base body (housing 310) that holds the decorative body so as to be able to rotate around a predetermined position (center axis CL);
a drive unit (stepping motor 371 for orbiting operation) that rotates the decorative body around the predetermined position;
It has a decoration body side terminal (connection terminal 367) provided on the decoration body side and a base body side terminal (connection terminal 363) provided on the base body side, and when the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal come into contact, the power supply unit (notification terminal 367) is provided. - Supply route forming means (power supply mechanism 360) configured to form at least a part of the power supply route (supply line SL) from the effect control device 140) to the decoration body,
When the decoration body rotates, the supply path forming means is arranged at the predetermined position while maintaining contact between the decoration side terminal and the base body side terminal, and when the decoration body does not rotate, the supply path forming means A gaming machine comprising a position changing means for arranging the supply path forming means at a position away from the predetermined position while maintaining contact between the body side terminal and the base body side terminal.

According to feature A13, it is possible to promote the simplification of the power supply route related to the production device by sharing the power supply route during the rotation and the power supply route during the stop. Here, by arranging the supply path forming means at a predetermined position during circulation, it is possible to prevent the electrical connection structure from interfering with the circulation operation. On the other hand, when the decorative body is stopped, the supply route forming means is disposed at a position away from the predetermined position that is the center of rotation, thereby making the supply route forming means less noticeable than when the decorative body is circulating. I can do it. For these reasons, according to the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of increasing the attention level by the game performance using the movable decorative body.

Feature A14. Information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (retention information) based on the establishment of a predetermined acquisition condition (award winning to the operating ports 83a, 83b); ,
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the result of the determination by the transition determination means being a transition compatible result that corresponds to the predetermined transition information, the gaming state is changed to a special gaming state (open/closed) more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. a gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162),
A gaming machine comprising a performance device (first movable performance device 300) that executes a game performance (special performance) based on a determination result by the transition determination means,
The performance device is
a decoration body (decoration unit 350);
a base body (housing 310) that holds the decorative body so as to be able to rotate around a predetermined position (center axis CL);
a drive unit (stepping motor 371 for orbiting operation) that rotates the decorative body around the predetermined position;
It has a decoration body side terminal (connection terminal 367) provided on the decoration body side and a base body side terminal (connection terminal 363) provided on the base body side, and when the decoration body side terminal and the base body side terminal come into contact, the power supply unit (notification terminal 367) is provided. - Supply route forming means (power supply mechanism 360) configured to form at least a part of the power supply route (supply line SL) from the effect control device 140) to the decoration body,
When the decoration body rotates, the supply path forming means is arranged at the predetermined position while maintaining contact between the decoration side terminal and the base body side terminal, and when the decoration body does not rotate, the supply path forming means A gaming machine comprising a position changing means for arranging the supply path forming means at a position away from the predetermined position while maintaining contact between the body side terminal and the base body side terminal.

According to feature A14, the simplification of the power supply path related to the production device can be promoted by sharing the power supply path during the rotation and the power supply path during the stop. Here, by arranging the supply path forming means at a predetermined position during circulation, it is possible to prevent the electrical connection structure from interfering with the circulation operation. On the other hand, when the decorative body is stopped, the supply route forming means is disposed at a position away from the predetermined position that is the center of rotation, thereby making the supply route forming means less noticeable than when the decorative body is circulating. I can do it. For these reasons, according to the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to suitably exhibit the effect of increasing the attention level by the game performance using the movable decorative body.

Feature A15. The decorative body is
A main body portion having an annular shape;
a first arm portion (second arm member 365) extending from the main body portion toward the center of the main body portion and having the decorative body side terminal provided at the tip portion;
A second arm portion (first arm member 361) is attached to the base body, and a second arm portion (first arm member 361) is provided with the base body side terminal at the tip thereof;
A shaft portion (shaft portion 366) formed on one of the distal end portion of the first arm portion and the distal end portion of the second arm portion engages with a bearing portion (bearing portion 362) formed on the other. By doing so, the first arm portion and the second arm portion are configured to be rotatably connected,
The gaming machine according to feature A13 or feature A14, wherein the shaft portion is configured to be located at the predetermined position when the decoration body rotates.

As shown in this feature, if the first arm on the side of the decoration and the second arm on the side of the base are rotatably connected, the first arm and the second arm will move as the decoration goes around. Even if the relative angle with the base body side terminal changes, it is possible to suppress a change in the distance between the decorative body side terminal and the base body side terminal and maintain a favorable contact state between both terminals. This is preferable in order to make the connection terminal a sliding type.

Feature A16. The decorative object is switchable to a first display form (first form) and a second display form (second form) having a different external shape from the first display form,
The drive unit is configured to rotate the decoration around the predetermined position when the decoration is in the second display mode,
The supply path forming means is arranged at the removed position when the first display mode is selected, and is arranged at the predetermined position when switching to the second display mode. The gaming machine according to any one of features A13 to A15.

As shown in this feature, if the supply route forming means is arranged at a predetermined position when the decoration is switched from the first display mode to the second display mode, the movement of the supply route forming means can be suppressed from becoming noticeable. can.

Note that it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in Features A1 to A12 to Features A13 to A16 detailed above.

Furthermore, each of the technical ideas shown in features A2 to A12 detailed above may be applied to feature A1. In this case, it is preferable that the "movable body" shown in feature A1 be the same as the "decoration body" shown in feature A2, etc.

<Characteristics Group B>
The following characteristic group B includes: ``Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a pattern on the display screen in a fluctuating manner. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery Regarding the background technology, "a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1)". In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase the attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the attention to games.'' This was done based on the problem it was trying to solve.

Feature B1. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can enter and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot enter;
a benefit granting unit (payout device 242) that grants a benefit (for example, a prize ball) to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
When in the special game state, a first switching means (opened by MPU 402 of main controller 162) switches the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. functions) and
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, it is determined that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number (for example, 10) or that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached the receiving state. A second switching means (in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that switches the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without reaching the specified number after switching. function to execute the closing process),
Cumulative number storage means (RAM 444 of the notification/performance control device 140) for storing the cumulative number when a ball entered exceeding the specified number (over-winning) occurs in the special game state;
It is characterized by comprising a notification means (display device 300Y) for notifying the cumulative number stored in the cumulative number storage means so that the player can identify it when the special game state is entered. A gaming machine that does.

In the special game state, the variable entry ball section is repeatedly switched between an accepting state and a non-accepting state. Here, when the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section reaches a specified number in the receiving state, this causes the variable ball entry section to switch to the non-receiving state. In this way, if a ball enters the variable ball entry section between the time when the conditions for switching to the non-accepting state are established and the time when the switching to the non-accepting state is actually completed, the benefit will be greater than the original benefit. Many benefits will be given to players. This is a favorable phenomenon for players who want to enjoy as many benefits as possible. However, in view of the fact that a bonus is given even if the ball enters the ball before the specified number is reached, there is a high possibility that the extra benefit will be overlooked if it gets mixed up with the regular benefits. In particular, when the switching from the accepting state to the non-accepting state is performed quickly, it may be difficult to grasp the above-described impending ball entry. Here, according to this feature, the occurrence of the various inconveniences described above can be suppressed by storing the cumulative number of balls entered that exceed the specified number and notifying the cumulative number so that the player can identify it. . This is preferable in order to increase attention to the game in a special game state that tends to be monotonous.

Feature B2. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can enter and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot enter;
a benefit granting unit (payout device 242) that grants a benefit (for example, a prize ball) to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
When in the special game state, a first switching means (opened by MPU 402 of main controller 162) switches the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. function to perform processing), and
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, it is determined that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number (for example, 10) or that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached the receiving state. A second switching means (in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that switches the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without reaching the specified number after switching. function to execute the closing process),
In the special game state, the round game is set such that after the first switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the accepting state, the second switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the non-accepting state. is configured to be executed multiple times with an interval in between,
Cumulative number storage means (RAM 444 of the notification/performance control device 140) for storing the cumulative number when a ball entered exceeding the specified number (over-winning) occurs in the round game in the special gaming state;
It is characterized by comprising a notification means (display device 300Y) for notifying the cumulative number stored in the cumulative number storage means so that the player can identify it when the special game state is entered. A gaming machine that does.

In the special game state, the variable entry ball section is repeatedly switched between an accepting state and a non-accepting state. Here, when the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section reaches a specified number in the receiving state, this causes the variable ball entry section to switch to the non-receiving state. In this way, if a ball enters the variable ball entry section between the time when the conditions for switching to the non-accepting state are established and the time when the switching to the non-accepting state is actually completed, the benefit will be greater than the original benefit. Many benefits will be given to players. This is a favorable phenomenon for players who want to enjoy as many benefits as possible. However, in view of the fact that a bonus is given even if the ball enters the ball before the specified number is reached, there is a high possibility that the extra benefit will be overlooked if it gets mixed up with the regular benefits. In particular, when the switching from the accepting state to the non-accepting state is performed quickly, it may be difficult to grasp the above-mentioned impending ball entry. Here, according to this feature, the occurrence of the various inconveniences described above can be suppressed by storing the cumulative number of balls entered that exceed the specified number and notifying the cumulative number so that the player can identify it. . This is preferable in order to increase attention to the game in a special game state that tends to be monotonous.

Feature B3. The notification means is
a display unit (display device 300Y) capable of switching to multiple display states (initial form, first display form to fifth display form) associated with each cumulative number;
Display state switching means (display device controlled by the MPU 442 of the notification/effect control device 140) that switches the display state of the display section in a predetermined order so that the display state corresponds to the cumulative number stored in the cumulative number storage means The gaming machine according to feature B1 or feature B2, wherein the gaming machine has a function of executing drive control of 300Y.

According to feature B3, when the cumulative number increases, the display state of the display section is switched in a predetermined order. If the display state and the cumulative number are linked in this way, the player can easily grasp the cumulative number by checking the display state of the display means at any timing.

Feature B4. The display section is provided with a plurality of movable parts (unit structures 355Y) that can be individually displaced to a first position (initial state) and a second position (flexed state), and the first position of the movable part The display state of the display unit is switched by displacement from the second position to the second position,
Feature B3 characterized in that the display state switching means switches to the next display state while maintaining the movable part, which was displaced to the second position in the previous display state switch, at the second position. The gaming machine described in .

According to feature B4, the movable part that was placed in the second position in the previous switching of the display state remains in the second position thereafter. In this way, by creating a configuration in which the result of the previous display state switching is maintained (inherited) without being affected by the subsequent display state switching, the effect shown in feature B3 can be exerted even more favorably. be able to.

Feature B5. The display state switching means is capable of displacing another movable part to the second position while one of the plurality of movable parts is being displaced to the second position. The gaming machine according to feature B4.

If a plurality of balls entering the ball exceeding the specified number occur at once, if the movable parts are sequentially placed in the second position, the period required for switching the display state will be prolonged. In this regard, as shown in this feature, if a plurality of movable parts can be displaced to the notification position simultaneously and in parallel, it is possible to suppress the extension of the required period. As shown in feature B2, in a configuration where the round game is executed multiple times with an interval in between, while the variable ball entry section is in the receiving state, the player has a chance to enjoy benefits by entering the ball. The focus tends to be on the variable ball entry section. Therefore, by shortening the period required for switching the display state as described above, it is possible to prevent the display state switching operation from exceeding the interval and extending into the next round. This is preferable in order to reduce the chance of overlooking the display state switching operation.

Feature B6. Feature B5, characterized in that the plurality of movable parts are arranged so as to surround a predetermined area, and a displacement direction is defined such that the movable parts approach the center of the predetermined area by being displaced to the second position. The gaming machine described in .

According to the configuration shown in this feature, each movable part approaches the center of the predetermined area by displacement to the notification position. As a result, even if the player is focusing on the movable part that started moving first, it is difficult for the moving part that starts moving later to be out of sight, and when the display state is continuously switched, the later switching This prevents movements from being overlooked.

Feature B7. The gaming machine according to feature B5 or feature B6, wherein the display state switching means is configured to carry over the display state of the display unit switched during the interval to at least the next round.

As shown in feature B7, if the display state of the display section switched during the interval is carried over to at least the next round, a period during which the cumulative number can be checked can be suitably secured.

Feature B8. a pattern display device (symbol display device 253) having a display screen (display screen 253a) and capable of displaying a plurality of patterns (symbol rows Z1 to Z3) on the display screen;
Display control means (notification/performance control device 140 and display control device 410) for variably displaying the symbols and then stopping and displaying the symbols in a pattern combination corresponding to the determination result by the transition determining device; Prepare,
The distance from the display section to the ball entrance hole (big winning hole 82a) of the variable ball entrance section is smaller than the distance from the display screen to the ball entrance hole of the variable ball entrance section. The gaming machine according to any one of features B3 to B7.

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to the receiving state and benefits are awarded based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section, so players who expect to receive benefits should pay attention to the variable ball entry section. is assumed. In view of these circumstances, even if the above-mentioned notification is made on the display screen for displaying symbols, there is a high possibility that the player's attention will not be directed to it. There is a concern that this may prevent the notification function from being effectively performed by the notification means. In this regard, as shown in this feature, by making the distance from the display section to the variable ball entry section smaller than the distance from the display screen to the variable ball entry section, players who are paying attention to the variable ball entry section can The display section can easily enter the field of vision, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature B9. The benefit granting means is a payout means that pays out a predetermined number of game balls as the benefit,
a pattern display device (symbol display device 253) having a display screen (display screen 253a) and capable of displaying a plurality of patterns (symbol rows Z1 to Z3) on the display screen;
Display control means (notification/presentation control device 140 and display control device 410) for variably displaying the patterns and then stopping and displaying the patterns in a pattern combination corresponding to the determination result by the transition determination device;
Correspondence information display means (MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140) for displaying correspondence information corresponding to the number of game balls put out by the payout means at a predetermined location on the display screen (upper right corner of the display screen 253a); function to display the total number),
The distance from the display section to the ball entry hole (big winning hole 82a) of the variable ball entry section is smaller than the distance from the predetermined location to the ball entry hole of the variable ball entry section. The gaming machine according to any one of features B3 to B7.

According to feature B9, in the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to the receiving state and a benefit is awarded based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section, so players who expect to receive benefits may not use the variable ball entry section. It is assumed that attention will be paid to the department. In view of these circumstances, even if the above-mentioned notification is made on a display screen where correspondence information corresponding to the number of game balls put out is displayed, there is a high possibility that the player's attention will not be drawn. There is a concern that this may prevent the notification function from being effectively performed by the notification means. In this regard, as shown in this feature, the distance from the display section to the variable ball entry section (ball entry port) is made smaller than the distance from the corresponding information display location (predetermined location) on the display screen to the variable ball entry section. This makes it easier for the display section to come into the field of view of the player who is paying attention to the variable ball entry section, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature B10. The gaming machine according to feature B9, wherein the display section is arranged between the variable ball entry section and the predetermined location.

When correspondence information corresponding to the number of payouts of game balls is displayed at a predetermined location on the display screen, the correspondence information can be confirmed during the special game state. Therefore, if the display section is arranged between the variable ball entry section and a predetermined location as shown in this feature, when the variable ball entry section and the corresponding information are to be viewed alternately, the line of sight will be directed to the display. Easier to pass over. Thereby, the effect shown in feature B10 can be suitably exhibited.

Note that it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the characteristic group A to the characteristic group B described in detail above.

<Feature C group>
The following characteristic group C includes: ``Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a pattern on the display screen in a fluctuating manner. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery Regarding the background technology, "a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1)". In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase the attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the attention to games.'' This was done based on the problem it was trying to solve.

Feature C1. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
When in the special game state, a first switching means (a first switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on the fulfillment of a predetermined switching condition (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) function to switch to open state),
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, it is determined that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number (for example, 10) or that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached the receiving state. A second switching means (in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that switches the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without reaching the specified number after switching. function to switch to the closed state).
In the special game state, the round game is set such that after the first switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the accepting state, the second switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the non-accepting state. is configured to be executed multiple times with an interval in between,
Information corresponding to a determination result when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is subject to determination by the transition determination means, before the predetermined special information becomes the determination target. A destination specifying means (a function for executing confirmation processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for specifying the destination at the timing of
If a ball enters exceeding the prescribed number (over-winning) in the round game in the special game state, a suggesting means (withholding) that suggests the result of the player specifying by the player specifying means during the special game state. A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with a display section 500X and a function of executing special performance execution processing in the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140.

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to a non-accepting state based on the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section reaching a specified number (upper limit number). If a ball enters the variable ball entry section just before the end of a round (just before switching to the non-accepting state), the number of balls entering the round will exceed the specified number. According to the configuration shown in this feature, a specific result is suggested based on the occurrence of a ball hitting exceeding a prescribed number (over winning). With such a configuration, the monotony of the game in the special game state can be suppressed, and players who expect a specific result to be suggested will be able to pay attention to the movement of the variable ball entry section and the game ball. can be encouraged.

Feature C2. The suggesting means has a determining means for determining to make the suggestion based on the number of balls entered exceeding the specified number, and after the determining means determines to make the suggestion, a predetermined starting condition is satisfied. The gaming machine according to feature C1, wherein the gaming machine is capable of delaying the start of the suggestion until the user agrees to the suggestion.

As shown in feature C1, in the configuration that suggests a specific result based on the number of balls entering the specified number of balls, the player's attention tends to be directed to the variable ball entering section or the game ball heading toward the variable ball entering section. Become. For this reason, if the excess → the suggestion starts immediately, there is a high possibility that the start of the suggestion will be missed. There is concern that this will be a factor that reduces the impact of the suggestion. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, a grace period can be provided after the decision to make a suggestion is made until the suggestion is actually started. This reduces the possibility that a player who is paying attention to the variable ball entry part or the game ball heading toward the variable ball entry part will miss the start of the suggestion, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in the impact of the suggestion.

Feature C3. When special information is added to the acquired information storage means between the time when the decision means decides to make a suggestion and the time when the suggestion is started, the destination specifying means specifies the destination with respect to the special information. It is configured to identify
A feature characterized in that the suggestion means has means for determining a mode of suggestion of a first specifying result by the first specifying means based on special information stored when the suggestion is started. The gaming machine described in C2.

As shown in feature C1, in the configuration that suggests a specific result based on over-winning, for example, even if it is decided to make a suggestion based on over-winning, if special information is not stored. , the premise on which the suggestion is made will collapse. In this regard, as shown in this feature, the configuration specifies the special information newly acquired while the start is delayed, and determines the mode of suggestion based on the special information stored at the time of starting the suggestion. By doing so, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature C4. Feature C2 or feature characterized in that the suggestion means is configured to determine that the predetermined start condition is satisfied and start the suggestion when a specific number of balls entering the ball exceeds the specified number. The gaming machine described in C3.

By adopting a configuration in which the suggestion is started when a specific number of balls entering the ball exceeds the specified number, the delay function shown in feature C2 can be suitably demonstrated. In addition, since both the suggestion decision condition and the suggestion start condition are configured to be established based on over-winning, the flow of the game in the special game state where the player is aiming for the ball to enter the variable ball entry section may be impaired. There is no. Therefore, the effect of suppressing monotony of the game in the special game state while ensuring smooth progress of the game can be suitably exhibited.

Feature C5. The suggesting means stores special information in the acquired information storage means when the determining means determines to make the suggestion in a situation where no special information is stored in the acquired information storage means. The gaming machine according to feature C2 or feature C3, wherein the gaming machine is configured to delay the suggestion so that one of the predetermined starting conditions is that the suggestion is made.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, it can be determined that the suggestion is made regardless of whether or not special information is stored, so that even if an over-win occurs, the over-win is ignored. can be avoided. As a result, it is possible to suitably increase the satisfaction level of the player who expects an over-win->suggestion.

Feature C6. The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C5, wherein the suggestion is configured to start during the interval.

While the variable ball entry section is in the receiving state, the player's attention tends to be directed to the variable ball entry section. If the above-mentioned suggestion is started under such circumstances, there is a high possibility that the start of the suggestion will be overlooked. Therefore, if the configuration is such that the suggestion is started during the interval in which the variable ball entry section is in a non-accepting state, it is possible to prevent the start of the suggestion from being overlooked and the impact of the suggestion from decreasing.

Feature C7. A plurality of types of the normal game state are provided,
comprising means for shifting the gaming state to any one of the plurality of normal gaming states after the end of the special gaming state;
Any one of features C1 to C6, characterized in that, at least in the special gaming state, the destination specifying means performs the destination identification based on the type of the normal gaming state to which the game state is transitioned after the special gaming state ends. The gaming machine described in .

When specifying a destination during a special gaming state, by specifying the destination by taking into consideration the type of normal gaming state to which the special gaming state will transition after the end of the special gaming state, the suggestions executed in the special gaming state and the normal gaming state can be identified. It is possible to suppress a mismatch between the game result of the game round corresponding to the suggestion after the transition to .

Feature C8. The suggestion means is characterized in that, after starting the suggestion during the special game state, the suggestion means continues the suggestion until the game round corresponding to the special information that triggered the start of the suggestion. The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C7.

According to feature C8, the suggestion started in the special gaming state is continued until the corresponding game round is reached after the transition to the normal gaming state, so that the effect of increasing attention to the game by a series of suggestions is suitably exerted. be able to.

Feature C9. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
When in the special game state, a first switching means (a first switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state based on the fulfillment of a predetermined switching condition (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) function to switch to open state),
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, it is determined that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number (for example, 10) or that the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached the receiving state. A second switching means (in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that switches the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without reaching the specified number after switching. function to switch to the closed state).
In the special game state, the round game is set such that after the first switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the accepting state, the second switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the non-accepting state. is configured to be executed multiple times with an interval in between,
When the number of balls entered exceeding the specified number (over-winning) occurs in the round game in the special game state, the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is subject to judgment by the transition judgment means. A destination specifying means (a function for executing a confirmation process in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for first specifying information corresponding to the determination result in the case of
Suggestion means (a function for executing special performance execution processing in the reservation display section 500X and the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140) that suggests the result of the destination specification by the destination specification means during the special game state is provided. A gaming machine characterized by:

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to a non-accepting state based on the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section reaching a specified number (upper limit number). If a ball enters the variable ball entry section just before the end of a round (just before switching to the non-accepting state), the number of balls entering the round will exceed the specified number. According to the configuration shown in this feature, the destination identification is performed based on the occurrence of a ball hitting exceeding the specified number (over winning). With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the monotony of the game in the special game state, and to encourage players who expect to be identified first to pay attention to the movement of the variable ball entry section and the game ball.

Feature C10. The destination specifying means specifies the destination until new special information is acquired when a ball enters the ball in excess of the specified number in a situation where the special information is not stored in the acquired information storage means. The gaming machine according to feature C9, characterized in that the gaming machine is configured to reserve.

As shown in feature C9, in the configuration in which a player is identified based on an over-win, special information is not necessarily stored at the timing when an over-win occurs. If the player is not identified because the special information is not stored even though an over-win has occurred, there is a high possibility that the player will feel a sense of loss. In this regard, as shown in this feature, if an over-win occurs in a situation where special information is not stored, the first identification is executed when new special information is acquired. This can eliminate the above concerns.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is as follows: "The destination specifying means determines whether or not the special game will be played if more than the specified number of balls enter the ball in a situation where the special information is not stored in the acquired information storage means. The gaming machine according to feature C8, further comprising means for specifying the destination based on the special information newly acquired during the state. It is possible.

Note that it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature B group to the feature C group detailed above.

<Characteristic group D>
The following feature group D includes: ``Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a pattern on the display screen in a fluctuating manner. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery In , a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1). In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase attention to games.'' This was done with a problem to be solved.

Feature D1. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
a switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section between the accepting state and the non-accepting state when in the special game state;
a benefit granting unit (payout device 242) that grants a benefit (for example, a prize ball) to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
Information corresponding to a determination result when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is subject to determination by the transition determination means, before the predetermined special information becomes the determination target. A destination specifying means (a function for executing confirmation processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for specifying the destination at the timing of
Suggestion means (reservation display section 500 and a function of executing special performance execution processing in the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140).

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section is in an acceptance state, and benefits are given to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section. Therefore, the player's attention in the special game state tends to be directed to the variable ball entry section. In the configuration shown in this feature, the previously specified result is suggested by the suggestion means provided around the variable ball entry section. With such a configuration, when a suggestion is made during the special game state, the suggestion can easily be seen by the player who is paying attention to the variable ball entry section, and it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. Thereby, the effect of increasing the attention level to the game by the suggestion means can be suitably exerted.

Feature D2. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
a switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section between the accepting state and the non-accepting state when in the special game state;
a benefit granting unit (payout device 242) that grants a benefit (for example, a prize ball) to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
If predetermined special information to be determined by the transition determining means is stored in the acquired information storage means after the special gaming state ends, the predetermined special information is to be determined by the transition determining means. A destination specifying means (a function for executing a confirmation process in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 )and,
Suggestion means (of the reservation display section 500 (a function of executing special performance execution processing in MPU 442).

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to the receiving state and benefits are awarded based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section, so players who expect to receive benefits should pay attention to the variable ball entry section. is assumed. In the configuration shown in this feature, the previously specified result is suggested by the suggestion means provided around the variable ball entry section. With such a configuration, when a suggestion is made during the special game state, the suggestion can easily be seen by the player who is paying attention to the variable ball entry section, and it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. Thereby, the effect of increasing the attention level to the game by the suggestion means can be suitably exerted.

Feature D3. a pattern display device (symbol display device 253) having a display screen (display screen 253a) and capable of displaying a plurality of patterns (symbol rows Z1 to Z3) on the display screen;
Display control means (notification/performance control device 140 and display control device 410) for variably displaying the patterns and then stopping and displaying the patterns in a pattern combination corresponding to the determination result by the transition determination device; Prepare,
According to feature D2, the suggesting means is arranged at a position where a distance from the suggesting means to the variable ball entry section is smaller than a distance between the variable ball entry section and the display screen. gaming machines.

In a gaming machine having a display screen for displaying symbols, it is also possible to make the above suggestion on the display screen, for example. However, as shown in feature D2, if the player's attention is directed toward the variable ball entry section, even if the suggestion is made, there is a high possibility that the suggestion will be overlooked. There is a concern that if this happens, the suggestion function of the suggestion means will not be effective. In this regard, as shown in this feature, by making the distance from the display section to the variable ball entry section smaller than the distance from the display screen to the variable ball entry section, players who are paying attention to the variable ball entry section can The display section can easily enter the field of vision, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

Feature D4. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in MPU 402 of main controller 162) capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
a pattern display device (symbol display device 253) having a display screen (display screen 253a) and capable of displaying a plurality of patterns (symbol rows Z1 to Z3) on the display screen;
Display control means (notification/performance control device 140 and display control device 410) that variably displays the patterns and then stops and displays the patterns in a pattern combination corresponding to the determination result by the transition determination device;
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
a switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section between the accepting state and the non-accepting state when in the special game state;
a benefit granting unit (payout device 242) that grants a benefit (for example, a prize ball) to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
If predetermined special information to be determined by the transition determining means is stored in the acquired information storage means after the special gaming state ends, the predetermined special information is to be determined by the transition determining means. A destination specifying means (a function for executing a confirmation process in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 )and,
It is arranged at a position where the distance to the variable ball entry section is smaller than the distance between the variable ball entry section and the display screen, and the result of the destination identification by the destination identification means regarding the predetermined special information is used in the special game. A gaming machine characterized in that it is equipped with a suggestion means (a function for executing special performance execution processing in the reservation display section 500X and the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140).

In the special game state, the variable ball entry section switches to the receiving state and benefits are awarded based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section, so players who expect to receive benefits should pay attention to the variable ball entry section. is assumed. In the configuration shown in this feature, the previously specified result is suggested by the suggestion means provided around the variable ball entry section. With such a configuration, when a suggestion is made during the special game state, the suggestion can easily be seen by the player who is paying attention to the variable ball entry section, and it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. Thereby, the effect of increasing the attention level to the game by the suggestion means can be suitably exerted.

Feature D5. The benefit granting means is a payout means that pays out a predetermined number of game balls as the benefit,
Correspondence information display means for displaying correspondence information corresponding to the number of game balls put out by the payout means at a predetermined location (upper right corner) of the display screen (displaying the total number in the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140) function),
The gaming machine according to feature D3 or feature D4, wherein the suggestion means is disposed between the ball entry hole (big winning hole 82a) of the variable ball entry section and the predetermined location.

When correspondence information corresponding to the number of paid out game balls is displayed on the display screen (predetermined location), the correspondence information can be confirmed during the special game state. Therefore, if a display section is arranged between the variable ball entry section and a predetermined location as shown in this feature, when the variable ball entry section (ball entrance) and the corresponding information are to be viewed alternately, , it becomes easier for the line of sight to pass over the display section. Thereby, the effects shown in feature 3 etc. can be suitably exhibited.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is as follows: ``The benefit giving means is a payout means that pays out a predetermined number of game balls as the benefit, and the corresponding information corresponding to the number of game balls paid out by the payout means is It is equipped with a corresponding information display means (a function for displaying the total number in the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140) to be displayed at a predetermined location (upper right corner) of the display screen, and the suggesting means is an opening/closing body ( The gaming machine according to feature D3 or feature D4, characterized in that the gaming machine is disposed between the opening/closing body 82b) and the predetermined location.

Feature D6. The variable ball entrance part has a ball entry hole (big winning hole 82a) formed to face upward, and an opening/closing body (opening/closing body 82b) arranged to cover the ball entrance from above. Then,
The gaming machine according to any one of features D2 to D4, wherein the suggesting means is disposed below the opening/closing body.

According to feature D6, the indicating means is located at the position where the game ball flowing into the ball entrance of the variable ball entry section falls, so that when visually following the movement of the game ball around the ball entrance. Suggestions become easier to see. Thereby, it is possible to suitably prevent the suggestion from being overlooked by the suggestion means.

Feature D7. A plurality of types of the normal game state are provided,
comprising means for shifting the gaming state to any one of the plurality of normal gaming states after the end of the special gaming state;
The gaming machine according to any one of features D2 to D6, wherein the destination specifying means performs the destination specification based on the type of the normal gaming state to which the special gaming state transitions after the end of the special gaming state.

According to feature D7, when the destination specifying means executes the destination specification during the special gaming state, the destination is specified based on the type of the normal gaming state to which the transition is made after the special gaming state ends. It is possible to suitably avoid suggestions based on specificity from being far removed from the corresponding game round.

Feature D8. The gaming machine according to feature D7, wherein the destination specifying means performs the destination specification based on a predetermined condition being satisfied during the special gaming state.

If the configuration is such that the previous identification is performed based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition during the special gaming state as shown in feature D8, it is possible to inform the player who expects a suggestion by the suggestion means whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied. can attract attention.

Feature D9. The gaming machine according to any one of features D2 to D8, wherein the suggestion means maintains the suggestion until the special gaming state ends.

As shown in feature D9, by maintaining the suggestion started in the special gaming state until the end of the special gaming state, it is possible to suitably reduce the chance of overlooking the suggestion.

Feature D10. The gaming machine according to any one of features D2 to D9, wherein the suggestion by the suggestion means is not started in the normal gaming state.

As shown in feature D10, when a suggestion is made by the suggestion means located around (near) the variable ball entry part during the normal game state, there are scattered areas that the player should pay attention to, and the player There is concern that the strain on the eyes will increase. In this regard, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by arranging a structure in which the suggestion means does not dare to make a suggestion in the normal game state in which the variable ball entry section is not in the open state.

Note that each of the technical ideas shown in the features D2 to D10 detailed above may be applied to the feature D1.

Furthermore, it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the feature groups A to C to the feature D group detailed above.

<Characteristic group E>
The following characteristic group E includes: ``Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a pattern on the display screen in a fluctuating manner. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery In , a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1). In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase attention to games.'' This was done based on the problem it was trying to solve.

Feature E1. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) capable of storing a plurality of pieces of special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Notifying means (holding display area NE and holding display section 500X) for notifying the player of corresponding information (number of holds) corresponding to the number of special information stored in the acquired information storage means;
A lottery means for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined information (for example, winning information) (a function for executing a win/fail determination process, etc. in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) and,
A benefit granting means for granting a benefit to a player when the lottery result by the lottery means corresponds to the predetermined information (a function for executing a transition process to the opening/closing execution mode in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) and,
If predetermined special information to be determined by the transition determining means is stored in the acquired information storage means after the special gaming state ends, the predetermined special information is to be determined by the transition determining means. A destination specifying means (a function for executing a confirmation process in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 )and,
Suggestion means for suggesting the result of specifying the destination by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode in the notification means (the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 executes display control of the pending display area NE and the pending display section 500X) function),
As the gaming state, a first gaming state and a second gaming state are provided,
The notification means includes a first notification section (pending display area NE) and a second notification section (pending display section 500X) arranged at a position away from the first notification section,
The suggesting means suggests the result of the destination specifying by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode of the correspondence information in the first notification section when the first gaming state is in the first game state, and the second A gaming machine characterized in that when in a gaming state, the result of the destination specifying by the destination specifying means is suggested by changing the reporting mode of the correspondence information in the second notification section.

According to feature E1, during the first gaming state, a specific result is suggested by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section, and during the second gaming state, the notification of the corresponding information on the second notification section is changed. By changing the aspect, a specific result is suggested. In this way, by switching the target that suggests a specific result to the first notification unit/second notification unit depending on the gaming state, it is possible to suppress monotony of the game and contribute to improving the attention level to the game. .

In addition, in this feature, the statement "a first gaming state and a second gaming state are provided as gaming states" has been changed to "a first gaming state and a second gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state". It is also possible that a second gaming state is provided.

Feature E2. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) capable of storing a plurality of pieces of special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Notifying means (holding display area NE, holding display section 500X) for notifying the player of corresponding information (number of holds) corresponding to the number of special information stored in the acquired information storage means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
Information corresponding to a determination result when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is subject to determination by the transition determination means, before the predetermined special information becomes the determination target. a means for identifying the destination at the timing of;
Suggestion means for suggesting the result of specifying the destination by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode in the notification means (the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 executes display control of the pending display area NE and the pending display section 500X) function),
The notification means includes a first notification section (pending display area NE) and a second notification section (pending display section 500X) arranged at a position away from the first notification section,
The suggesting means suggests the result of specifying the destination by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section when the normal gaming state is in the special gaming state. If so, the gaming machine is characterized in that the result of the destination specifying by the destination specifying means is suggested by changing the notification mode of the correspondence information in the second notification section.

According to feature E2, during the normal gaming state, a specific result is suggested by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section, and during the special gaming state, the notification mode of the corresponding information in the second notification section is changed. Changing it suggests a specific result. In this way, by switching the target that suggests a specific result to the first notification unit/second notification unit depending on the gaming state, it is possible to suppress monotony of the game and contribute to improving the attention level to the game. .

Feature E3. A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
A switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section to the accepting state and the non-accepting state when the special game state is in the special game state,
The distance between the second notification section and the ball entry port (big winning hole 83a) of the variable ball entry section is smaller than the distance between the first notification section and the ball entry port of the variable ball entry section. The gaming machine according to feature E2.

According to feature E3, in the special game state, the second notification section relatively close to the variable ball entry section can indicate a predetermined result. In view of the fact that the player's attention is likely to be directed to the variable ball entry section during the special game state, by indicating a specific result in the second notification section during the special game state, it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. This is preferable in order for the suggestion means to perform the suggestion function.

Feature E4. A variable ball entry unit (variable winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can enter and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot enter;
When in the special game state, a switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing by the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section between the accepting state and the non-accepting state,
The first notification section is disposed at a position closer to the starting ball entry section among the starting ball entry section and the variable ball entry section, and the second notification section is located closer to the starting ball entry section and the variable ball entry section. The gaming machine according to feature E2, characterized in that the gaming machine is disposed at a position closer to the variable ball entry section of the section.

According to feature E4, in the special game state, the second notification section relatively close to the variable ball entry section indicates the previous specified result. In view of the fact that the player's attention is likely to be directed to the variable ball entry section during the special game state, by indicating a specific result in the second notification section during the special game state, it is possible to prevent the suggestion from being overlooked. In addition, in the normal game state, the first notification section relatively close to the starting ball entry section indicates the previous specified result. In view of the fact that the player's attention is likely to be directed to the starting ball entry part during the normal gaming state, by suggesting a specific result in the first notification part during the normal gaming state, it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the suggestion. According to the above configuration, the suggestion function of the suggestion means can be exerted.

Feature E5. The gaming machine according to any one of features E2 to E4, further comprising means for regulating notification by the first notification section when the special gaming state is entered.

According to feature E5, when the first notification section and the second notification section can make notifications during the special gaming state, the following problems occur because the points to be noticed are dispersed. That is, there is a high possibility that the above-mentioned suggestion function will give the impression that it is a nuisance to players who are trying to obtain more benefits by paying close attention to the movement of the variable ball entry section. Therefore, in the special game state, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suppressed by restricting the notification by the first notification section and limiting the target of notification to the second notification section.

Feature E6. The notification means is characterized in that, when the notification mode in the second notification section is changed in the special gaming state, the notification means has a means for maintaining the changed notification mode until the end of the special gaming state. The gaming machine according to any one of features E2 to E5.

According to feature E6, if the notification mode in the second notification section is changed during the special gaming state, the changed notification mode is maintained until the end of the special gaming state, so there is no chance of the suggestion being overlooked. can be suitably reduced.

Feature E7. The notification means is configured to take over the notification mode changed by the second notification unit to the first notification unit when transitioning from the special gaming state to the normal gaming state. The gaming machine according to any one of features E2 to E6.

According to feature E7, by taking over the notification mode between the first notification unit and the second notification unit and changing the points of interest, the player's expectations for the game round that was previously specified can be increased. can be suitably stimulated.

Feature E8. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) capable of storing a plurality of pieces of special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Notifying means (holding display area NE, holding display section 500X) for notifying the player of corresponding information (number of holds) corresponding to the number of special information stored in the acquired information storage means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information (for example, winning information) (the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 executes a validity determination process, etc.) function) and
Based on the fact that the result of the determination by the transition determining means corresponds to the predetermined transition information (jackpot result), the gaming state is changed to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for transitioning to the gaming state (opening/closing execution mode);
Information corresponding to a determination result when the predetermined special information stored in the acquired information storage means is subject to determination by the transition determination means, before the predetermined special information becomes the determination target. a means for identifying a destination at a timing of;
Suggestion means for suggesting the result of specifying the destination by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode in the notification means (the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 executes display control of the pending display area NE and the pending display section 500X) function),
The notification means includes a first notification section (pending display area NE) and a second notification section (pending display section 500X) arranged at a position away from the first notification section,
The suggesting means changes the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section when the normal gaming state is in effect, thereby suggesting the result of the destination specifying by the destination specifying means, and the second The structure is such that the notification mode in the notification section is not changed, and when the special game state is entered, the notification mode of the corresponding information in the second notification section is changed to prevent the destination specified by the destination specifying means from changing. A gaming machine characterized by having a configuration in which a notification mode in the first notification section is not changed while suggesting a specific result.

According to feature E8, during the normal gaming state, a specific result is suggested by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section, and during the special gaming state, the notification mode of the corresponding information in the second notification section is changed. Changing it suggests a specific result. In this way, by distinguishing between the first notification unit and the second notification unit the targets that suggest a specific result depending on the gaming state, monotony of the game can be suppressed and the level of attention to the game can be increased. can.

Note that the technical ideas shown in the features E2 to E7 detailed above may be applied to the features E1 and E8.

Further, it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the feature groups A to D to the feature E group detailed above.

<Characteristic group F>
The following characteristic group F includes: ``Some gaming machines, such as pachinko machines, are equipped with a pattern display device that displays the pattern in a variable manner on the display screen. When a prize is won in the actuated opening, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to generate a special game state advantageous to the player, such as a winning state, and a changing display of symbols is started.If you win this lottery Regarding the background technology, "a symbol combination corresponding to the winning result is finally displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1)". In recent years, various efforts have been made to increase the attention to games.However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the attention to games.'' This was done based on the problem it was trying to solve.

Feature F1. A starting ball entrance part (operating ports 83a, 83b) provided in the gaming area (gaming area PE),
an information acquisition means (a function for acquiring reservation information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) that acquires special information (reservation information) based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means (a function for storing pending information in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) capable of storing a plurality of pieces of special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Notifying means (holding display area NE and holding display section 500X) for notifying the player of corresponding information (number of holds) corresponding to the number of special information stored in the acquired information storage means;
A lottery means for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined information (for example, winning information) (a function for executing a win/fail determination process, etc. in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162) and,
A benefit granting means for granting a benefit to a player when the lottery result by the lottery means corresponds to the predetermined information (a function for executing a transition process to the opening/closing execution mode in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) and,
If predetermined special information to be determined by the transition determining means is stored in the acquired information storage means after the special gaming state ends, the predetermined special information is to be determined by the transition determining means. A destination specifying means (a function for executing a confirmation process in the MPU 402 of the main controller 162 )and,
Suggestion means for suggesting the result of specifying the destination by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode in the notification means (the MPU 442 of the notification/performance control device 140 executes display control of the pending display area NE and the pending display section 500X) function),
The notification means includes a first notification section (pending display area NE) and a second notification section (pending display section 500X) arranged at a position away from the first notification section,
The suggesting means is
a first changing unit that suggests a result of destination identification by the destination identification unit by changing the notification mode of the correspondence information in the first notification unit;
a second changing means for suggesting the result of the destination identification by the destination identification means by changing the notification mode of the correspondence information in the second notification unit;
A game characterized in that it has a takeover means that takes over the notification mode of the first notification section changed by the first change means to the second notification section when a predetermined takeover condition is satisfied. Machine.

According to feature F1, a pre-specific result is suggested by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the notification unit. Here, if a predetermined handover condition is satisfied in a situation where the notification mode is changed in the first notification section, the changed notification mode will be taken over to the second notification section. By coordinating the first notification unit and the second notification unit in this way, multiple notification units can be used together to suggest a specific result and suppress the monotony of the game. can be suppressed from becoming a factor that confuses players.

Feature F2. When the handover is carried out by the handover means, the period during which the notification mode is changed in the first notification section and the period during which the notification mode is changed in the second notification section are the same. The gaming machine according to feature F1, characterized in that the gaming machine is configured such that portions overlap.

According to feature F2, at the time of handover, the periods in which the notification mode is changed in each notification unit partially overlap. With such a configuration, it is possible to promote the player's understanding of the fact that the handover has taken place.

Feature F3. When the lottery is conducted by the lottery means, the symbol display means starts variable display of the symbols, displays a stop result corresponding to the result of the lottery, and ends the variable display of the symbols in one of the game rounds. game round control means for controlling the symbol display means so that symbols of each game round are displayed variably in accordance with special information stored in the acquired information storage means;
When a game round is started by the game round control means, special information corresponding to a previous game round among the special information stored in the acquired information storage means is deleted,
The gaming machine according to feature F1 or feature F2, wherein the takeover means is configured such that a takeover period during which the takeover is performed does not overlap with a timing at which the special information is deleted.

It is assumed that if the handover shown in feature F1 etc. overlaps with the timing when special information is deleted, it will be difficult to understand the relationship before and after the handover even if the handover is carried out from the first notification unit to the second notification unit. be done. In this regard, according to the present feature, such a concern can be suitably eliminated because the takeover period during which the takeover is performed does not overlap with the timing of deletion of the special information.

Feature F4. When the lottery result by the lottery means corresponds to the predetermined information, the privilege granting means changes the gaming state as the privilege to a special gaming state (opening/closing execution mode) more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. A gaming state transition means (a function for executing gaming state transition processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162),
A variable ball entry unit (variable prize winning device 82X) that can be switched between an acceptance state (open state) in which game balls can be entered and a non-acceptance state (closed state) in which balls cannot be entered;
A switching means (a function for executing opening/closing processing in the MPU 402 of the main control device 162) for switching the variable ball entry section to the accepting state and the non-accepting state when the special game state is in the special game state,
The first notification section is disposed at a position closer to the variable ball entry section among the starting ball entry section and the variable ball entry section,
The second notification section is disposed at a position closer to the starting ball entry section among the starting ball entry section and the variable ball entry section,
The first changing means is configured to suggest the result of the destination specifying by the destination specifying means by changing the notification mode of the corresponding information in the first notification section during the special gaming state,
The handover means is configured to determine that the predetermined handover condition is satisfied when transitioning from the special gaming state to the normal gaming state, and to carry out the handover from the first notification unit to the second notification unit. The gaming machine according to any one of features F1 to F3.

According to feature F4, during the special game state, the first notification section, which is arranged so as to be relatively close to the variable ball entry section, indicates a specific result, and the special game state is switched to the normal game state. In this case, the second notification section, which is disposed at a position relatively closer to the starting ball entry section, indicates a predetermined result. In the special game state, the player's attention tends to be directed to the variable ball entry section, and in the normal game state, the player's attention tends to be directed to the starting ball entry section. Therefore, the handover from the first notification section to the second notification section is By doing so, player fatigue caused by diversification of suggestions can be reduced.

Feature F5. If a predetermined takeover avoidance condition is satisfied, the notification mode is not transferred from the first notification unit to the second notification unit even if the predetermined takeover condition is satisfied. The gaming machine according to any one of features F1 to F4.

As shown in this feature, by intentionally providing a case where no handover occurs, it is possible to prevent the cooperation pattern between the first notification unit and the second notification unit from becoming monotonous.

Further, it is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the feature groups A to D to the feature F group detailed above.

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

Pachinko gaming machine: an operating means (game ball firing handle 41) operated by a player, a game ball firing means (game ball firing mechanism 110) that fires a game ball based on the operation of the operating means, and a It is equipped with a ball path (guiding path 103) that guides the game ball to a predetermined game area, and game parts (game nails 38, etc.) arranged in the game area (game area PE), and a predetermined part of each game part. A gaming machine that provides a bonus to a player when a game ball passes through a passing section (general prize opening 81, etc.).

Reel-type gaming machines such as slot machines: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a symbol row consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then displays the symbol row at a final stop, and the symbols begin to fluctuate due to the operation of the starting operation means. A special game that is advantageous to the player, with the necessary condition that the fluctuation of the symbols is stopped due to the operation of the stopping operation means or after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, and that the final stopped symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A gaming machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

Ball-using belt-type gaming machine: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a symbol row consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then displays the symbol row as a final stop; A special gaming state (bonus game, etc.), and further includes a throwing device that is provided with a ball tray and performs a throwing process of taking in game balls from the ball tray, and a putting device that puts out game balls to the ball tray. A game machine configured such that the operation of the starting operation means becomes effective when a game ball is thrown into the game machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10... Pachinko machine as a gaming machine, 80... Game board unit, 80a... Game area forming body, 81... General winning opening, 82... Variable winning opening, 82a... Big winning opening, 82b... Opening/closing body, 83a... Upper operating opening , 83b...lower operation opening, 140...notification/production control device, 162...main control device, 253...design display device, 253a...display screen, 300...first movable production device, 305...relay board, 310...housing, 313 ...Opening, 320...Direction block, 330...Base plate, 340...Link mechanism, 341...Ring member, 345...Connection member, 350...Decoration unit, 355...Unit structure, 356...Decoration member, 357...Light emitting board, 358 ...Connection part, 360... Power supply mechanism, 361... First arm member, 362... Bearing part, 363... Connection terminal, 365... Second arm member, 366... Shaft part, 367... Connection terminal, 371... Drive part, 375 ...Drive unit, 380...Second movable production device, 385...Decoration body, 386...Drive unit, 401...MPU, 403...ROM, 404...RAM, 442...MPU, 443...ROM, 444...RAM, 500X...pending display 501X...Execution target display section, 502X...Pending number display section, 502aX to 502hX...Unit pending display section, CL...Central axis line, DE...Detection area, NE...Pending display area, PE...Game area.

Claims (1)

A starting ball entry section provided in the gaming area;
information acquisition means for acquiring special information based on the ball entering the starting ball entry section;
acquired information storage means capable of storing special information acquired by the information acquisition means;
Transition determining means for determining whether the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined transition information;
Shifting the gaming state to a special gaming state more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state based on the result of the determination by the transition determining means being a transition compatible result that corresponds to the predetermined transition information. a game state transition means for causing the
a variable ball entry section that can be switched between an acceptance state in which a game ball can enter and a non-acceptance state in which a game ball cannot enter;
a benefit granting means for granting a benefit to the player based on the ball entering the variable ball entry section;
a first switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the non-accepting state to the accepting state when in the special gaming state, based on the satisfaction of a predetermined condition;
When the variable ball entry section is switched to the receiving state by the first switching means, the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section has reached a specified number, or the number of balls entering the variable ball entry section is the specified number after switching to the receiving state. a second switching means for switching the variable ball entry section from the accepting state to the non-accepting state based on the fact that a predetermined period of time has elapsed without reaching .
In the special game state, the round game is set such that after the first switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the accepting state, the second switching means puts the variable ball entry section into the non-accepting state. is configured to be executed multiple times with an interval in between,
Cumulative number storage means for storing the cumulative number when a ball enters exceeding the specified number in the round game in the special game state;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising: a notification means for notifying a cumulative number stored in the cumulative number storage means so that a player can identify the cumulative number when the special gaming state is entered.

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