JP4827955B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, and more particularly to a player's interest not only in a game that determines whether or not a special game occurs but also in a game that determines whether or not a specific game occurs. It relates to an increased gaming machine.

  Conventionally, as a pachinko machine which is a kind of gaming machine, a display unit capable of displaying a plurality of symbols is provided in a game area where a game ball is driven, and the display unit is based on the fact that the game ball is detected at the start winning opening. The symbol displayed on the screen starts to change, and after a predetermined time, the symbol is fixedly displayed, and this fixedly displayed symbol is a special symbol combination (special display mode) set in advance, that is, a jackpot symbol (for example, “7 , 7, 7 "), it is known to generate a special gaming state (hit state) that is advantageous to the player, such as repeatedly opening a special winning opening a predetermined number of times.

  In this conventional pachinko machine, there are two types of “big hit symbol”: a symbol called a specific symbol such as “7, 7, 7” and a symbol called a normal symbol such as “6, 6, 6”. If the big winning symbol is a specific symbol, the time until the variable display time of the symbol on the normal symbol display device is fixed after the special gaming state ends is shortened. There is also known one that generates a specific gaming state such as a so-called probability fluctuation in which the game becomes higher.

However, regarding the specific gaming state, it is extremely monotonous to occur if the displayed jackpot symbol is a specific symbol, and there is no room for the player to be involved in determining whether or not to generate the specific gaming state. There was a problem of reducing the enjoyment of the player.
Therefore, as can be seen in Patent Document 1, a decision game for determining whether or not to generate a specific gaming state is performed, and when the decision game is performed, a game ball is fired at the player for a predetermined winning opening. A pachinko machine has been proposed in which a random number is extracted based on the winning of a game ball in the winning opening, and whether or not a specific gaming state is to be generated is determined based on the extracted random number.

JP 2000-271281 A

  However, in the pachinko machine described above, even if it is said that the player is aiming for a predetermined winning opening and firing a game ball and determining whether or not to generate a specific game state based on the result, Since the determination is based on the random number extracted when the game ball wins the winning opening, it is actually determined how to determine whether or not to generate a specific gaming state. There is no room for the player to know, for example, even if the game ball is not aimed at the prize opening and fired, there is a possibility of giving the player a distrust such as whether or not the specific game state is generated. was there. And if such distrust is given, it is difficult to enhance the interest of the player.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance the interest of a player not only in a game that determines whether or not a special game occurs but also in a game that determines whether or not a specific game occurs. And

To achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a variable display device capable of performing a variable display game by displaying a plurality of identification information in a variable manner,
Based on the stop result mode of the variation display game, a variable winning device that can vary between a first state in which a game ball is not accepted or difficult to accept, and a second state in which a game ball is easily accepted,
Special game control means capable of generating a special game for causing the variable prize apparatus to change to the second state when the change result game stop result mode is a predetermined special display mode;
In a gaming machine equipped with
A plurality of game balls can be won in the variable winning device,
A distribution means for distributing a plurality of game balls won in the variable winning device to a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball detecting means for detecting the game balls distributed by the sorting means for each of a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball counting means for counting the game balls detected by the sorting ball detecting means for each of a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball count comparing means for comparing the number of game balls counted by the sorting ball counting means for each winning area;
A selection means for causing a player to predict a distribution result by the distribution means in advance, and for allowing the player to select the distribution result;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the distribution result by the distribution unit and the selection result by the selection unit;
First specific game control means capable of generating a specific game different from the special game based on the determination result of the comparison determination means;
A second specific game control means capable of generating a specific game different from the special game in response to the stop result mode of the variable display game that has become the special display mode;
With
The distribution result is one in which any one of the plurality of winning areas is selected based on the distributed ball count comparing means .
Said selection means is for the player to select one of said plurality of winning areas in anticipation of the allocation results,
The comparison determination unit, the sorting result, the is the winning area selected by the selection means, a game machine which is characterized in that the comparison and determination by determining whether or not matching.

As a preferred aspect of the invention described in claim 1, for example, as in claim 2, the second specific game control means when none of the plurality of winning areas is selected by the selection means. It is good also as a structure which determines generation | occurrence | production of a specific game machine by .

In each invention of the present application , two “winning areas” may be provided, or three or more may be provided. Further, in the invention according to claim 1, “the distribution result is one in which any one of the plurality of winning areas is selected based on the distribution ball count comparison means ” is, for example, This means that the result of which the winning area (or the smallest winning area or the second winning area, etc.) having the largest number of game balls allocated becomes the distribution result.

In addition, as a preferable aspect of the invention described in claim 1 or 2 , for example, as described in claim 3, each of the distribution ball flow paths for flowing the game balls distributed by the distribution means to the winning area, Prepare for each winning area,
A configuration in which the sorting ball flow path is supported in a balance shape by a support portion (for example, one shaft) arranged in the center of these sorting ball flow paths, and can be tilted based on the weight of the game ball flowing down. It is good.

  Here, the “tilting motion” is simply a rotational motion or swinging (seesaw motion) in one direction when supported by a single shaft, but may be a motion with a higher degree of freedom. For example, it may be an operation that can tilt in all directions including front and rear, left and right, and diagonal.

Further, as a preferred embodiment of the invention described in claim 3, for example, as described in claim 4, there is provided a sorting sphere storing means capable of receiving and storing the game ball flowing down by the sorting sphere flow path. The winning area is configured by the ball storage means,
In accordance with the amount of game balls stored in the allocating ball storing means, the allocating ball flow downway is inclined,
The allocating ball storing means may be configured to visually recognize a game ball stored inside.

Further, as a preferred aspect of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, for example, as described in claim 5, the first specific game control means and the second specific game control means are configured to stop the variation display game. It is good also as a structure which can generate | occur | produce the probability fluctuation game which changes the probability that becomes a special display mode into a high probability state as the said specific game.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the game balls won in the variable winning device are distributed to a plurality of winning areas by the distribution means, and the distribution result is predicted by the player in advance and selected by the selection means. The first specific game control unit is configured to be able to generate a specific game based on the determination result of the comparison determination unit that performs the comparison determination between the distribution result and the selection result.

For this reason, the player himself is involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific gaming state, and the determination method can be clarified, and not only a game that determines whether or not a special gaming state occurs. Even in a game for determining whether or not a specific gaming state occurs, the interest of the player can be enhanced.

In particular, it comprises a sorting ball detecting means for detecting the game balls distributed by the sorting means, and a sorting ball counting means for counting the game balls detected by the sorting ball detecting means, and a plurality of selection means are used to select a plurality of balls. One of the winning areas is selected as the allocation result, and the comparison determination means selects any of the winning areas that are selected based on the number of game balls (counting result by the allocated ball counting means) to each winning area By determining whether or not the winning area selected by the means matches, a comparison determination is made as to whether or not a specific game is to be generated. Therefore, the player himself is involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific game, and the player can easily and clearly grasp the determination method.
In this case, the allocation result is one in which any one of the plurality of winning areas is selected based on the number of game balls distributed to each winning area (for example, the winning area having the largest number of gaming balls). For this reason, the contents of the distribution result and the breakdown of the comparison determination are very clear and easy to understand, and the possibility that the player has distrust is extremely low.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, when none of the plurality of winning areas is selected by the selection means, the second specific game control means stops the variable display game in the special display mode. The occurrence of the specific gaming machine is determined corresponding to the result mode. For this reason, it can be prevented that the player does not improve the interest of the player by not selecting the distribution result.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sorting ball flow path for allowing the game balls distributed by the sorting means to flow down to any of the plurality of winning areas, and the sorting ball flow paths are in a balance-like shape. The sorting ball flow path is configured to be capable of tilting based on the weight of the game ball flowing down. For this reason, the sorting ball flow down to the side of the winning area where the number of distributed game balls is large, and this movement causes the player to flow down the gaming ball to the winning area selected by the player. It can be easily confirmed at a glance, and the game for determining the specific game state becomes easier to understand. In addition, as the distribution ball progresses in the middle of the distribution situation, the above-mentioned allocating ball flow path tilts toward one winning area, or the other winning area, so the player is glad about this movement. It is possible to achieve a high level of excitement.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, the winning area is constituted by the sorting ball storing means that can receive and store the game balls flowing down by the sorting ball flow path, and is stored in the sorting ball storing means. The configuration is such that the sorting ball flow path inclines in accordance with the amount of game balls stored, and the game ball in the sorting ball storage means is visible. For this reason, it is possible to notify the player of the amount of game balls stored in the distribution ball storage means, and to make the player know the distribution situation and distribution results more clearly and easily. In particular, it is possible to easily and clearly know the storage state of the sorting ball storage means selected by the player himself using the selection means. Therefore, the player can clearly recognize whether or not the specific game state is set based on the storage state, and the possibility that the player has distrust is further reduced.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board. It is a front view which shows a center case. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows a center case. It is a figure explaining an allocation ball flow downway and an allocation ball storage means. It is a figure explaining the shutter of a sorting ball storage means. It is a figure which shows the control system of a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of a game control apparatus. It is a front view which shows a game board (Example 2). It is a figure explaining the probabilistic variation determination accessory (Example 2). It is a figure explaining the probabilistic variation determination accessory (Example 2). It is a figure which shows the control system (Example 2) of a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing (Example 2) of a game control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing (Example 2) of a game control apparatus.

Hereinafter, as a first embodiment of the present invention, an embodiment in the case of being applied to a pachinko gaming machine will be described with reference to the drawings.
A. Front Configuration and Overall Structure of Pachinko Gaming Machine First, the front configuration and overall structure of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this example will be described with reference to FIG.
This pachinko gaming machine 1 is referred to as a so-called CR machine (card reading machine) in this case, and is roughly divided into a pachinko machine 2 (game machine main body) and a card-type ball lending machine (illustrated) as a game medium lending device. (Omitted) and these are installed in pairs. The card-type ball lending machine has a built-in card reader / writer, and a card insertion slot or the like into which a card such as a magnetic card or an IC card is inserted is provided on the front surface.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 2 has a front frame 11 attached to a machine frame 12 arranged on the back side of the front frame 11 so as to be openable and closable, and a game board 10 in which a game area described later is formed. (Shown in FIG. 2) is attached to the upper side of the front frame 11. A glass frame 13 is attached to the front frame 11 so as to be openable and closable so as to cover the upper side of the front surface, and a game board is inserted through a glass plate 14 (which may be a transparent plastic board) held by the glass frame 13. Ten game areas are visible.
An open / close panel 15 is disposed below the glass frame 13 and is attached to the front frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. Further, an operation panel 16 is normally fixed to the front frame 11 below the open / close panel 15.

In addition, an area (game area 31 to be described later) in which a ball is dropped from above and an out or safe determination (determination of whether or not a prize has been made) is formed on the front surface of the game board 10, and a game ball is placed in the prize opening In the case where it becomes effective and safe, a predetermined number of game balls are discharged to the upper plate 17 provided on the open / close panel 15 (that is, discharged as a prize ball).
Further, a key insertion portion 21 of a locking device (not shown) for the front frame 11 and the glass frame 13 is formed at the edge of the front frame 11 on the opening / closing side (right side in FIG. 1).

Here, the upper plate 17 provided on the opening / closing panel 15 temporarily holds the game balls before being discharged as prize balls or rental balls, and these game balls are provided below the back surface of the front frame 11. This is sequentially supplied to a ball feeding device (not shown) to a launching device (not shown). Further, on the upper plate 17 or the periphery thereof, a ball lending button 18 and a card return button 19 (card operation unit), and an operation unit 20 for opening and closing a ball passage for transferring a game ball of the upper plate 17 to a lower plate 24 described later. In addition, a first selection button 22a (for left side selection) and a second selection button 22b (for right side selection) used for the specific game determination game are provided.
The selection buttons 22a and 22b constitute the selection means of the present invention, and are not limited to the mode provided in the upper part of the upper plate 17, but are particularly limited as long as they can be operated by the player. For example, it may be provided on the surface of the game board or the front surface of the lower plate 24.

The operation panel 16 includes an ashtray 23, a lower plate 24, a ball removal lever 25 for pulling out a ball stored in the lower plate 24, and a firing operation handle 26 for operating the launching device. Is provided.
Further, speakers 27, 28, and 29 for acoustic effects are provided on the front side of the upper plate 17 and on the left and right sides of the glass frame 13.

B. Next, the front configuration of the game board 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 31 is formed on the front surface of the game board 10 by being surrounded by a guide rail 30.
The game board 10 includes an out-ball inlet 32, a variable display device 33 (in this case, including a general-purpose start memory display and a general-purpose display), a normal electric accessory type start winning port 34, and a variable winning device 35 ( Grand prize opening), ordinary start gates 36 and 37, a plurality of general winning openings 38 to 39, a center case 50 provided so as to surround the front side of the periphery of the display portion of the variable display device 33, and a hitting direction changing member called a windmill (Not shown), a number of obstacle nails (not shown) and the like are provided.

The variable display device 33 includes a screen (display unit 61 to be described later) that can display identification information (hereinafter, referred to as a special figure) such as images and symbols, and can display a special figure for a variable display game. is there. For example, three variable display areas are formed in three horizontal rows in the approximate center of the screen, and each variable display area displays a special figure consisting of numbers, letters, etc. in a stopped state (stop display) or changes It is possible to display (variable display) in a state (for example, a state of scrolling in the vertical direction).
In this case, the variable winning device 35 is of a tulip type and is provided at the top of the center case 50. The variable winning device 35 includes a closed state (first state) in which the tulip-shaped opening / closing member (reference number omitted) is closed and does not accept a game ball, or an open state in which the opening / closing member is open and a game ball is easily received (first state). The second state is variable.

  A winning sensor (for example, a proximity sensor) is arranged for each winning opening in all winning openings provided in the game board 10. That is, a special drawing start sensor 131 (shown in FIG. 7) is provided in the start winning opening 34, count sensors 57 and 58, which will be described later, are provided in the variable winning apparatus 35 (large winning opening), and general winning openings 38 to 39 are further provided. In the inside, winning sensors A1 to AN described later are arranged.

  Note that the game area 31 in the game board 10 includes a variable display device and a variable prize device and plays a game using a pachinko ball. For example, the game region 31 belongs to a so-called “first type” or a variable display. It may be a device belonging to “type 3” equipped with a device, or may be of any other model, etc., and may take any configuration, but as an example, in this embodiment, a type belonging to “type 1” Used.

C. Detailed Configuration in Center Case Next, a detailed configuration in the center case 50 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a front view of the center case 50, and FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the center case 50. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and operation of the sorting means, the sorting ball flow path, and the sorting ball storage means. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the shutter of the sorting ball storage means.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the center case 50 includes an upright wall 51 and a base 52, and a rectangular display window 52 a that faces the display unit of the variable display device 33 in the assembled state is formed in the approximate center. Yes.
The center case 50 includes a sorting member 53 (sorting means), a sorting flow path 54 (sorting means), a first sorting ball flow down path 55, a second sorting ball flow down path 56, a first count sensor 57, A second count sensor 58 (sorting ball detection means), a first sorting ball storage unit 59, and a second sorting ball storage unit 60 (sorting ball storage means; winning area) are provided.
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 61 denotes a special figure and ordinary display unit in the variable display device 33, and reference numeral 62 denotes a special figure start memory display in the variable display device 33.

  Here, the base 52 is a board member having the display window 52 a on the inside, and is a resin member for attaching the center case 50 to the game board 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the center case 50 is attached to the game board 10 by fitting the outer periphery of the base 52 into the opening formed in the game board 10 (the veneer board which is the board of the game board) from the front side. .

  Further, the standing wall 51 is a resin member constituting a bowl-shaped portion provided on the upper part of the center case 50 (both left and right sides of the variable prize winning device 35), and protrudes from the game board surface to the front side. The sphere that has flowed down from above always flows to the left and right sides of the upright wall 51 so that it does not flow down in front of the display unit of the variation display device 33 or the position of each sorting ball storage unit. By covering the upper peripheral edge portion of the center case 50 with such a standing wall 51, it is possible to prevent the game ball from colliding with the sorting ball flow paths 55 and 56 and the sorting ball storage portions 59 and 60 from above, The balance operation (the operation of swinging like a seesaw) by the sorting ball flow paths 55 and 56 is accurately performed (so that the later-described movements of the sorting ball storage units 59 and 60 are not disturbed).

Next, the distribution flow path 54 is a flow path in which a ball that has won a prize winning device 35 (a big prize opening) flows down first. The distribution channel 54 is fixedly attached to the base 52 (that is, the game board 10).
The distribution member 53 is a mountain-shaped member provided in the distribution flow path 54, and the sphere that has flowed down is either the first distribution ball flow path 55 or the second distribution ball flow path 56. Sort randomly.
The first count sensor 57 and the second count sensor 58 are sensors for detecting and counting the spheres flowing through the first allocating ball flow path 55 or the second allocating ball flow path 56, respectively.

Next, the first allocating ball flow path 55 and the second allocating ball flow path 56 are flow paths provided so as to extend symmetrically on the left and right sides of the variation display device 33 above the variation display device 33. The shaft 63 (support part) perpendicular to the game board 10 provided below the distribution channel 54 is supported in a scale-like manner with respect to the base 52 and can swing along the surface of the game board 10. ing.
Further, in this case, the first allocating sphere storage unit 59 and the second allocating sphere storage unit 60 are respectively connected to the end portions of the first allocating ball flow channel 55 or the second allocating ball flow channel 56. It is a round box-shaped member, and is configured such that a sphere that passes through each sorting ball flow path flows into the inside. Further, each allocating ball storage unit moves substantially in the vertical direction as shown in FIG. 5 along with the swinging (balance operation) of the allocating ball flow path due to the weight of the game ball.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first sorting sphere storage unit 59 and the second sorting sphere storage unit 60 are inclined at the bottom so that the sphere that has flowed into the interior flows to the back side. A ball outlet 64 through which the balls are finally discharged is provided on the back side. In this case, a rotary shutter 65 capable of opening and closing the ball outlet 64 is also provided. The shutter 65 is rotatably supported with respect to the base 52 by a shaft 66 shown in FIG. 4, and is driven to rotate by motors (shutter motors 111 and 112 shown in FIG. 7) not shown by a gear 67 shown in FIG. When the force is transmitted, as shown on the left side of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the ball outlet 64 is closed (closed position), and on the right side of FIGS. 6A and 6B. The ball outlet 64 is opened to rotate to a position where the ball flows down from the ball outlet 64 (open position). The position detection for the rotation control is performed by a first motor reference position detection unit 136 and a second motor reference position detection unit 137 (shown in FIG. 7) which will be described later.

In FIG. 4, a reference numeral 68 denotes a ball-separating member that is provided on the back side of the game board 10 and collects winning balls, and flows down from the ball outlet 64 and is discharged from each allocating ball storage unit. The ball thus made flows down into the ball abutting member 68 via the opening 69 provided in the base 52 and is collected below the gaming machine.
Here, since the opening 69 on the back surface side of the shutter 65 is formed to be considerably larger than the ball outlet 64 on the front surface side of the shutter 65, the sorting ball storage portion 60 is formed when the shutter 65 is in the open state. Even if it moves up and down, the game ball is discharged without clogging.
That is, in the normal state, as shown on the left side of FIG. 6, the semicircular shutter 65 blocks the ball outlet 64 of each allocating ball reservoir from behind. Further, when the stored sphere is pulled out, the shutter 65 is rotated about the axis as shown on the right side of FIG. 6 so that the sphere outlet 64 is opened with respect to the opening 69 and the sphere is extracted backward. It is.

Each of the sorting ball flow paths 55 and 56 has two openings on the upper surface (not shown) for connection to the sorting flow path 54, and each sorting ball flow path is shaken by the weight of the game ball. When moved, one lower end of the distribution channel 54 enters one opening, and the other lower end slightly protrudes from the other opening (see FIG. 5). However, since the gap between the lower end of the distribution channel 54 and the opening end of the opening is set to be less than the diameter of the game ball at the maximum, the game ball is spilled from the gap or the game is spilled into the gap. Trouble that the ball is bitten does not occur.
Further, the front side of each of the sorting ball storage portions 59, 60 is formed of a transparent resin or the like so that the inside can be visually recognized.

D. Next, the control system of the pachinko machine of this example will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 7, a game control device 100 is a control device that performs overall control of a game (including control of game progress and direct or indirect control of each controlled device for that purpose), and is necessary for pachinko games and the like. A game microcomputer 101 (a game microcomputer: manufactured as an IC for a so-called amuse chip), an external communication terminal 101a, an input interface 102, and an output interface 103 are configured. The gaming microcomputer 101 further includes a CPU 104, a ROM 105, and a RAM 106. The game control device 100 constitutes a special game control means, a comparison / determination means, a specific game control means, and a sorting ball counting means of the present invention.

Here, the input interface 102 of the game control device 100 includes a special figure start sensor 131, a general figure start sensor 132, a first count sensor 57, a second count sensor 58, a first selection switch 134, a second selection switch 135, Detection signals from the first motor reference position detection means 136 (motor reference position detection sensor 1), the second motor reference position detection means 137 (motor reference position detection sensor 2), and the winning sensors A1 to AN are input.
Here, the winning sensors A1 to AN are sensors for detecting the winning balls that are won in the general winning ports 38 to 39, respectively. When there are n general winning ports on the game board, n winning sensors are arranged. .

Further, the special figure start sensor 131 is a sensor for detecting a winning ball that has won a special drawing start winning opening 34, and the general figure start sensor 132 is a sensor for detecting a ball that has passed the normal figure start gates 36 and 37. It is. Note that there are two (first and second) actual start sensors 132 corresponding to the two normal start gates 36 and 37.
The first selection switch 134 and the second selection switch 135 are switches (selection means) corresponding to the first selection button 22a and the second selection button 22b described above, and the first selection button 22a and the second selection button 22b. It operates when is operated.

  Further, as described above, the first count sensor 57 and the second count sensor 58 are provided in the center case 50 and win the variable winning device 35 (large winning opening). A game ball flowing in the second divided ball flow path 56 is detected. Based on the outputs of these sensors, the game control device 100 can count the total number of game balls won in the variable prize winning device 35 (large prize opening), and flow down to each of the sorting ball flow paths 55 and 56. The number of game balls can be counted.

  On the other hand, from the output interface 103 of the game control device 100, the electric solenoid 108 for driving the tulip-shaped opening / closing member of the start winning opening 34 (ordinary variable winning device) and the tulip-shaped opening / closing member of the variable winning device 35 are connected. The big prize opening solenoid 109 to be driven, the board external connection terminal 110 for transmitting the board external information (for example, a big hit signal) to the management device of the amusement shop, the shutter 65 of the above-described ball storage sections 59 and 60 A signal is output to the first shutter motor 111 and the second shutter motor 112 that drive the.

Further, a signal such as prize ball data is output from the output interface 103 to the discharge control device 113. That is, the game control device 100 corresponds to the winning value of the winning opening when the winning sensor 131, 57, 58, A1 to AN provided for each winning opening of the game board 10 detects the winning of the game ball. Then, information on the number of prize balls set in advance (prize ball data) is transmitted to the discharge control device 113. Then, the discharge control device 113 receives the prize ball data and performs prize ball discharge control according to the received prize ball data.
Further, control information is transmitted from the output interface 103 to the effect control device 120 (a device that also functions as a display control device that controls the above-described variation display device 33).

  Here, the effect control device 120 is also composed of a microcomputer including a CPU, and executes image display control of the variable display device 33 based on control information such as display control information transmitted from the game control device 100. For example, when a variable display game is executed, display control information including combination of stop symbols (result mode) and variable time data is transmitted from the game control device 100 in this case. In the production control device 120, the stop mode and the change mode satisfying the change time are selected, and the special display (identification information) is displayed on the change display 33 in a variable manner. A variation display game for deriving and displaying the aspect) is performed. It should be noted that the special display variation display mode (variation mode) actually implemented by the control of the effect control device 120 may be uniquely determined by the display control information from the game control device 100, but in this case Is a configuration in which the production control device 120 finally selects the variation mode by random number extraction or the like within the range of the conditions given by the display control information (the production control device 120 is given a certain amount of discretion to select the variation mode). Configuration).

  The production control device 120 controls the variable display device 33 based on the control information to realize the display of the special figure, and controls the speakers 27 to 29 through the sound control device 141. A predetermined acoustic effect is realized, and further, lighting control of the LED 143 and the lamp 144 provided in the game board 10 or the like is also executed via the decoration control device 142.

E. Contents of Game (a) Outline of Game Next, an outline of a game performed in the pachinko machine of this embodiment and a flow of the game will be described.
First, at the beginning of the game (or before the game), the customer waiting state (during the demonstration) is in progress, and display control information for instructing the display of the customer waiting screen is transmitted from the game control device 100, A customer waiting screen (moving image or still image) is displayed on the screen of the display device 33.
Then, when the game ball that is driven into the game area via the guide rail 30 wins the start winning opening 34 that is a special drawing start opening (chucker) (that is, when there is a special drawing start winning), The above-described display control information for commanding the variable display is transmitted from the game control device 100, and the special figure (consisting of numbers, characters, symbols, patterns, etc.) fluctuates (for example, scrolls) on the display screen 61 of the display device 33. Display (so-called variable display) is performed, and a variable display game is performed.

And, if the result mode of this variable display game (a combination of special figures derived by variable display) is a specific mode (for example, “7, 7, 7”, etc.), a privilege called a big hit is a game Granted to a person. In terms of control, for example, on the condition that there has been a start winning, the value of the big hit random number is extracted and stored, and the random number value that has been extracted and stored is compared and determined at the time of determination. Based on the determination result, whether or not to make a big hit is determined in advance, and the variable display game is started in response to this determination.
In addition, in the state where the so-called special chart fluctuation time reduction control is being performed (short-time state), the time from the start to the end of the special figure fluctuation is shortened from the normal time, and the amount of time per hour is reduced accordingly. The frequency of the variable display game is substantially increased, which is advantageous. Further, when the probability of jackpot is set to a high probability by controlling so-called probability fluctuation (probability fluctuation state), the probability of hitting the jackpot more than usual increases.

When the big hit is reached, the opening / closing member of the variable prize winning device 35 (big prize opening) is temporarily opened within a range not exceeding a specified time (for example, 30 seconds), for example, for a period of up to 10 winnings. Is done. This opening operation is performed a plurality of times, for example, up to 16 rounds. In this jackpot state, display control information for instructing display of a jackpot screen for producing a jackpot state or informing the player of the number of jackpot rounds is transmitted from the game control device 100, and the display screen of the display device 33 is displayed. Then, such a big hit display is executed.
Furthermore, in this big hit state (special game state), a game (specific game decision) that decides whether or not to generate a specific game state (the probability variation state or the special-time short-time state or the normal-time short-time state) thereafter. (Game) is executed (details will be described later).

In addition, when a game ball is further won in the start winning opening 34 during the above-described fluctuation display game or big hit, the special figure start memory display 62 is displayed and in this case, up to four are stored and changed. After the display game or jackpot ends, the special display variable display game is repeated or returned to the customer waiting state based on the memory (ie, the start memory).
In other words, if the variable display game ends with a big hit, the game shifts to a big hit state. If the jackpot ends and the start memory is stored, the variable display game is executed again. If the jackpot ends and there is no start memory, the flow returns to the customer waiting state.

On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the usual figure start gates 36 and 37 during the game, a usual figure variable display game is performed by a variable display of a normal figure (for example, a single digit number) on the display device 33. Is called. And if this variable display game result (stopped usual figure) is a predetermined | prescribed aspect (for example, "7"), the game value (privilege) called per common figure will be provided.
A game is held for about 0.5 seconds, for example, in an open state in which the pair of opening and closing members of the start winning opening 34 are opened in a reverse C shape. This makes it easier for a game ball to win the start winning opening 13, and accordingly, the number of executions of the special figure variable display game increases and the possibility of a big hit increases.
In addition, when a game ball is further won in the general figure start gates 36 and 37 during the normal figure variable display game, a general figure start memory display is executed on the display device 33 and in this case, up to four are stored. After the usual variable display game is over, the usual variable display game is repeated based on the memory.

(A) Specific Game Determination Game Next, a specific game determination game (in this case, a game for selecting a side with a large allocation of winning balls) that is played at the time of a big hit with the pachinko machine of this embodiment will be described. This game is a game for determining whether or not to generate a specific game state such as a probability variation state after a big hit. When a big hit (per special figure) occurs, the player can actively enjoy this game by pressing the selection button 22a or 22b described above within a predetermined effective time.
That is, when a big hit occurs, the shutter 65 in the center case 50 is controlled to the closed position during a specific round. And in the above-mentioned center case 50, the left first sorting sphere storage 59 and the first sorting sphere flow down 55, and the right second sorting sphere storage 60 and the second sorting sphere down flow 56 are As described above, since it is supported by a balance with a symmetrical structure and is swingable, the entire game ball that wins the big prize opening 35 during the big hit depends on which side the left or right side of the game ball flows in. The tilt direction and the vertical position of each sorting sphere storage unit are different. For example, if a large amount flows into the left side, the left side of the game ball tilts downward as shown in FIG. 5A due to the weight of the game ball. As shown in FIG. Further, if the inclined side and the side selected by the selection button 22a or 22b coincide with each other during the effective time, a specific gaming state such as a probability variation state is generated as a privilege by the control described later.

Therefore, the player predicts in advance an uncertain and uncertain result of the final inclination direction (game ball distribution result) of the balance-like member in the center case 50 and bets on either one. This game can be actively enjoyed by pressing either one of the selection buttons 22a or 22b with feeling. In addition, since the inclination direction of the balance-like member constantly changes depending on the distribution situation of the game ball during the big hit round, the player pays attention to the movement of the balance-like member (balance operation). Become. Further, since each of the allocating ball storage portions 59 and 60 can be seen through, and the player can see the inflow state and the storage state of the game ball, the player can also enjoy visual interest in this respect.
If the player does not press any selection button, the game proceeds as if either one (for example, the first selection button) is selected.

F. Operation of Control System Next, the contents of control performed by the above-described control system will be described.
(A) Main Routine First, an outline of the main routine of the game control device 100 (microcomputer 101) will be described with reference to FIG. 8 (left side).
When the power is supplied and the reset signal is released and the microcomputer 101 is activated, first, it is determined whether or not the power is turned on. If the power is turned on, initialization processing is performed in step S1 in the RAM 106. Work area initialization, I / O register setting, system internal register setting processing, flag initialization, and the like are performed. In this initialization process, the shutter 65 is positioned at the open position.

Next, a stirring random number update process is executed in step S2. This stirs each random number that is updated in step S15 of the timer interrupt process described later. Specifically, this is a process of changing the next start value at random each time the value of each random number makes one round.
Note that the above main routine (except for the startup process such as the initialization process) is repeatedly executed, for example, sequentially.

(B) Timer interrupt process Next, the timer interrupt process of the game control apparatus 100 (microcomputer 101) will be described with reference to FIG. 8 (right side).
This timer interruption process is activated by a timer activation process (not shown) in the main routine described above, and is executed, for example, every 0.5 msec.
In this timer interrupt process, first, in step S11, a register save or interrupt prohibition process is executed as necessary, and then an input process in step S12 is executed. In this input process, the detection signals of the above-mentioned sensors (special drawing start sensor 131, universal start sensor 132, count sensors 57 and 58, winning hole sensors 1 to n (A1 to AN), etc.) are read. . Specifically, the output value of each sensor is determined at each timer interruption period, and when the output value of the same level continues for a specified number of times (for example, twice), the level of this output value is detected by each sensor. Read as deterministic value of signal. When it is read that any sensor or switch is on, a flag (input flag) indicating that is set.

Next, in step S13, an output process for setting and outputting the output data set in steps S18 and S19, which will be described later, to the output port is executed, and then in step S14, the set control devices (effect control device 120, Processing for transmitting control information (command) to the discharge control device 113) (command transmission processing) is executed.
Thereby, the variable display game in which the special figure is variably displayed on the display device 33 by the effect control device 120 is appropriately performed.

  Thereafter, in step S15, random number update processing is executed. Here, the random number related to the special drawing and the random number related to the general drawing are updated. The random numbers related to the special figure include, for example, a big hit random number (random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit), a reach random number (a random number for determining the reach mode), a big hit stop symbol random number (for determining the big hit stop symbol) Random numbers). In the generation of the random number, the special figure and the usual random number are updated by incrementing, for example, “1”. Therefore, each time this routine is repeated, the random numbers of the special figure and the ordinary figure change, and the random number extraction value for the big hit or the ordinary figure maintains the at randomness. The same applies to reach random numbers and jackpot stop symbol random numbers.

Next, in step S16, an error monitoring process is executed. This is a process for monitoring an undetected error of each prize ball sensor, an excessive error of prize ball discharge, an open state of the glass frame 13 covering the front surface of the game board 1, and the like.
Next, in step S17, switch monitoring processing (sensor input monitoring processing) is executed. This monitors the input flag set as described above, and executes processing such as extracting and storing a jackpot random number value when the input flag of the special figure start sensor 131 is set, for example. (Details will be described later).

Next, in step S18, special figure game processing is performed. In this special game processing, overall control of the entire variable display game is performed. That is, when the variation start condition is satisfied, the determination of the jackpot random number (the process of determining whether the jackpot random number extracted and stored in the switch monitoring process is a jackpot), the process of setting the jackpot flag in the case of the jackpot, A process of setting a combination of stop symbols (result mode) and a process of setting a variation mode of a special figure are performed (details will be described later).
Here, when the variation start condition is satisfied, when the variation display game is started when there is a start opening prize in the waiting state for the customer and the variation display game ends, there is a start memory and the variation display game is executed again. There are three types when the jackpot is over, the start-up memory is stored, and the variable display game is executed again.
In this special figure game process, a process of setting various output data related to the special figure variable display game is also performed. That is, the content (command data) of control information (command) to be transmitted to, for example, the effect control device 120 is set in accordance with the game state of the special display variable display game.

Next, in step S19, processing for the usual variable display game is performed. That is, processing for setting the content (command data) of control information (command) to be transmitted to the effect control device 120 or the like in accordance with the state of the usual variable display game is performed.
Next, in step S20, external information editing processing is executed. This is a process of setting output data (a jackpot signal, a winning ball signal, etc.) of the board external connection terminal 110.
After that, in step S21, the saved register is restored to allow the main routine to be resumed, the interrupt is permitted, and the process is interrupted (returned).

(C) Switch Monitoring Process Next, the switch monitoring process in the timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, first, in step S31, a special figure start winning storage process (a process such as extracting and storing a jackpot random number value if the input flag of the special figure start sensor 131 is set) is executed. Then, in the next step S32, a general figure start winning storage process (a process of extracting and storing a random number value per common figure when the input flag of the general figure start sensor 132 is set) is executed.

Next, in step S33, if the input flag of the first count sensor 57 is set, it is counted and the count result is added to the total count memory. Here, the total count memory means a storage area for counting ten winnings that determine the opening end condition (big hit round end condition) of the big winning opening during the big hit, and this value is initialized to zero at the end of the big hit round It becomes.
Next, in step S34, if the input flag of the first count sensor 57 is set, it is counted and the counting result is added to the first storage counter (storage counter 1). Here, the first storage counter is a storage area for counting the number of game balls that have flowed into the first allocating ball storage unit 59.

Next, in step S35, if the input flag of the second count sensor 58 is set, it is counted, and the count result is added to the same total count memory as in step S33.
Next, in step S36, if the input flag of the second count sensor 58 is set, it is counted and the counting result is added to the second storage counter (storage counter 2). Here, the second storage counter is a storage area for counting the number of game balls that have flowed into the second allocating ball storage unit 60.
After step S36, the process returns.

(D) Special Figure Game Process Next, the special figure game process in the timer interruption process will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, first, at step S41, the process number branches. That is, the process number 0 advances to step S42 (special drawing start process), the process number 1 advances to step S43 (special figure stop monitoring process), and the process number 2 advances to step S44 (big hit process). The customer waiting state (during demonstration) is process number 0.

In step S42 (special chart starting process), the special chart start winning memory is monitored, and if there is a special chart starting prize memory, the process for starting the variable display of the special chart (determining the big hit random number, Processing to set a jackpot flag, processing to set a special symbol stop symbol combination, processing to set the variation mode of the special diagram, setting processing to send a special symbol variation display execution command, etc.) Execute and return after setting the process number to 1. If there is no special figure start winning memory, the process returns as it is (the process number remains 0).
In step S43 (special chart stop monitoring process), after the set special chart fluctuation display time has elapsed, after transmitting the symbol stop command, the process number is set to 2 if it is a big hit, and the process number is set to 0 if it is off. When the set special figure fluctuation display time has not elapsed, the process returns as it is (the process number remains 1). In this special figure stop monitoring process, when a big hit is reached, a process for starting the timing operation of the selection timer (for example, 10 sec) for counting the valid time of the selection buttons 22a and 22b, a message to the display device 33, etc. A process of displaying and prompting the player to operate the selection buttons 22a and 22b is also executed.
The processing content of step S44 (big hit processing) will be described later.

(E) Jackpot Process Next, the jackpot process in the special figure game process will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, first, in step S45, the process number branches. That is, the process number A advances to step S46 (big hit start process), the process number B advances to step S47 (middle big hit process), and the process number C advances to step S48 (big hit end process). The process number A is immediately after the shift to the big hit process.
Further, the processing contents of steps S46 to S48 will be described later.

(F) Big hit start process Next, the big hit start process in the big hit process will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, first, in step S51, it is determined whether or not the above-described selection timer has expired (that is, whether or not the valid time has elapsed). If the time is up, the process proceeds to step S54, where the selection information (information on which player has selected left or right in the specific game decision game) is set to A (information on selection of the left side), and then step In S56, the process number is returned as B. On the other hand, when the time is not up, the process proceeds to step S52.
Next, in step S52, it is determined whether or not the first selection switch 134 has been turned on (whether or not the first selection button 22a has been pressed to select the left side). If so, the process proceeds to step S53.

Next, in step S53, it is determined whether or not the second selection switch 135 has been turned on (whether or not the second selection button 22b has been pressed for right side selection). If the result is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S55. If there is, the process number A is returned.
Next, in step S55, the selection information is set to B (information in which the right side is selected), and then the process number is returned to B in step S56.

(G) Big hit processing In the following, the big hit processing in the big hit processing will be described with reference to FIGS.
When this routine is started, it is first determined in step S61 whether or not the wait flag set during the big hit interval period is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S64. Proceed to S62.
In step S62, it is determined whether or not the big winning opening release flag set during the big hit is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S68, and if not set, the process proceeds to step S63.

Next, in step S63, the big prize opening release flag is set, the big prize opening release timer is set (time measurement is started), the big prize opening SOL ON information is set, and the process returns. The special prize opening timer is a timer that counts the maximum time (for example, 30 sec) that the special prize opening is open. Also, the special winning opening SOL on information is information for driving and controlling the special winning opening SOL 109. When this on information is set, the big winning opening SOL 109 is driven and the opening member of the special winning opening 35 is shown in FIG. Open wide as shown in.
On the other hand, in step S64, it is determined whether or not a close flag for instructing to close the shutter 65 is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S65, and if not set, the process proceeds to step S66.

In step S65, the shutter motors 111 and 112 are driven to close the shutters 65, and the process proceeds to step S66.
Next, in step S66, it is determined whether or not a predetermined wait timer forming the big hit interval period has expired. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S67, and if not, the process returns. Note that the value of the wait timer (that is, the big hit interval period) is set to a length sufficient to reliably complete the closing operation of the shutter 65 (operation from the open position to the closed position) in step S65.

Next, in step S67, since the interval period has ended, the weight flag is reset (cancellation of the set state), the big winning opening SOL on information is set to start a new big hit round, and the close flag is further reset. Then return.
On the other hand, in step S68, it is determined whether or not the big prize opening timer has timed up. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S70, and if not, the process proceeds to step S69.

In step S69, it is determined whether or not the value of the total count memory (the number of winning balls to the big winning opening) is less than the limit number (for example, 10), and if it is less than the limit number, the process returns to continue the round. If so, the process proceeds to step S70 to end the round.
Next, in step S70, in order to end the big hit round, the big winning opening SOL off information is set. The special winning opening SOL off information is information for stopping the driving of the special winning opening SOL109. When this off information is set, the driving of the special winning opening SOL109 is stopped and the opening member of the special winning opening 35 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.

After step S70, the process proceeds to step S71, where the number of cycles (number of big hit rounds) is updated (counted up), the big prize opening timer is set, and the total count memory is reset (initialized to 0).
After step S71, it is determined whether or not the number of cycles has become 14 in step S72. If it is 14, the process proceeds to step S73 to store the balls in each allocating ball storage unit, otherwise Proceed to step S74 of step 13.

In step S73, an initialization process is performed in order to advance the specific game determination game (in order to store the balls in the above-described sorting ball storage units and start swinging by the weight of the balance-like member), and then in step S74. Proceed to As this initialization process, there are a process for setting the above-mentioned close flag and a process for resetting the first storage counter and the second storage counter (initializing the value to 0).
When the close flag is set here, the shutter 65 is set to the closed position by the processing of steps S64 and S65 in the next interval period, and then the next round (15th round) starts. Will do. That is, the storage of the game balls (the winning balls to the big prize opening) in each of the sorting ball storage units 59 and 60 for advancing the specific game determination game is started from the beginning of the 15th round.

Next, in step S74, it is determined whether or not the number of cycles is less than 16, which is the upper limit value. If less than 16, the process proceeds to step S75, and otherwise, the process proceeds to step S76.
In step S75, in order to start an interval period before starting the next cycle (big hit round), a wait flag is set, a wait timer is set, and the process returns.
In step S76, an initialization process for shifting to the big hit end process is executed, and then the process returns. That is, here, the count value of the cycle number is reset to 0, the special winning opening release flag is reset, the stored ball stability timer is set, and the processing number is set to C. The stored ball stability timer is a timer for waiting until the game ball won in the big winning opening is stably stored in any of the ball storage units 59 or 60.

(H) Big hit end processing Next, the big hit end processing in the big hit processing will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, it is first determined in step S81 whether or not the ending flag is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S84, and if not, the process proceeds to step S82.
In step S82, it is determined whether or not the storage ball stability timer has timed up. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S83. If the time has not expired, the process returns to continue the jackpot ending process.

In step S83, the ending flag is set and the shutter open timer is set, and then the process returns. The shutter open timer is a timer for waiting for completion of the operation of returning the shutter 65 to the open position.
On the other hand, in step S84, it is determined whether or not the shutter opening timer has expired. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S86. If not, the process proceeds to step S85, and control is performed to return the shutter 65 to the open position. Start or continue to return.
Next, in step S86, it is determined whether or not the above-described selection information is A (left side). If it is A, the process proceeds to step S87, and if not (that is, if the selection information is B), the process proceeds to step S89.

In step S87, the value of the first storage counter (the number of stored balls in the left sphere storage unit 59) is equal to or greater than the value of the second storage counter (the number of stored spheres in the right sphere storage unit 60). If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S90. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S88.
Further, in step S89, a determination reverse to that in step S87 is performed. If the value of the second storage counter is equal to or greater than the value of the first storage counter, the process proceeds to step S90, and if not, the process proceeds to step S88. .
In step S88, the probability variation flag is reset on the assumption that the selection information of the specific game determination game and the actual count result do not match (the player has deviated from the prediction). When the probability variation flag is reset, the probability variation state after the big hit (specific game state) does not occur.

On the other hand, in step S90, the probability variation flag is set on the assumption that the selection information of the specific game decision game matches the actual count result (the player has been predicted). When the probability variation flag is set, a probability variation state (specific game state) after a big hit occurs.
Note that in steps S88 and S90, a flag indicating whether or not to perform special time or ordinary time reduction control may be set or reset.
After step S90, in step S91, various processes for ending the big hit end process (big hit process) are executed and the process returns. As these various processes, there are a process of resetting the ending flag, resetting each storage counter, and setting the process number to 0 in the special figure game process.

The main points of the operation (game content, etc.) of the pachinko machine executed by the control process described above will be described as follows.
In other words, similar to the normal first type pachinko machine, special figures are arranged and a big hit is generated. At that time, before the big hit game starts, the effective time of the selection buttons 22a and 22b starts, and the player has more game balls in either the first distribution ball storage unit 59 or the second distribution ball storage unit 60. Select whether to store. (At this time, a message or the like is displayed on the display to prompt the player to operate the selection button.)
The jackpot game is started when any one of the selection buttons is operated or when the effective time elapses without the selection button being operated. In this case, when the valid time has passed without the selection button being operated, step S54 is executed through step S51, and the selection information is forcibly set to A (left side).

When the big hit game is started, all the game balls won in the big winning opening are distributed to either the first distribution ball storage unit 59 or the second distribution ball storage unit 60, and the shutter 65 is held until the 14th round. Since they are in the open position, all of these game balls are extracted backward without being temporarily stored.
The shutter 65 is rotated to the closed position when the number of big hits is 14 and the game balls are stored in the sorting ball storage units. At this time, the weights of the game balls are stored, and the above-described balance-like members (the left first sorting ball storage portion 59 and the first sorting ball flow path 55 and the right second sorting ball storage portion). 60 and the second allocating ball flow path 56) swings like a balance, tilts to one side, and the tilt direction and angle change according to the distribution situation of the game balls. The progress can be clearly notified, and the player will be thrilled.

When the big hit game is over, the number of game balls stored in the sorting ball storage section on either side (in this case, right or left) selected by the player is greater than the number of sorting ball storage sections not selected. If the number of storages in the selected allocating ball storage unit is large (when the balance member is tilted to the side selected by the player), the determination is made as to whether the balance is small or not (steps S87 and S89). A probability variation state (or a short time game may be used) is entered (step S90). At this time, by displaying the number of storages in each sorting sphere storage unit on the display, the final storage number of the selected sorting sphere storage unit is displayed, and the other sorting sphere storage unit is displayed. The player may be surely notified that the number of storage is larger than that.
Note that the game balls stored in the allocating ball storage unit are extracted after the big hit, the shutter 65 is opened (step S85), and when all the game balls are extracted (step S84), the above determination (probability variation state occurs) The next game is started.

  According to the pachinko machine described above, the game balls won in the variable winning device 35 are distributed to a plurality of winning areas (first and second distribution ball storage units 59, 60) by the distribution member 53, and the distribution result is as follows. Based on the determination result of the comparison determination means (game control device 100) that makes the player predict in advance and selects the selection means (selection buttons 22a and 22b) and compares the distribution result with the selection result. Since the game control means (game control device 100) is configured to be able to generate a specific game state (probability variation state or short-time control state), the player himself is involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific game state In addition, the determination method can be clarified, and not only a game that determines whether or not a special gaming state (special figure big hit state) occurs, but also a specific gaming state such as a probability variation state occurs. Interest even of the player in the game to determine whether it is possible to increase the.

  In addition, sorting ball detecting means (first and second count sensors 57, 58) for detecting the game balls distributed by the sorting member 53, and sorting for counting the game balls detected by the sorting ball detecting means. A ball counting means (first and second storage counters), one of the plurality of winning areas is selected by the selection means (select buttons 22a, 22b), and the comparison determination means (game control device 100) is selected. Since the comparison determination is performed based on the number of game balls allocated to the winning area, the player himself is involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific game state, and the player can easily and clearly determine the determination method. I can grasp it. In this case, since the allocation result is any one winning area (the winning area having the largest number of gaming balls) determined by the number of game balls allocated to each winning area, the contents of the allocation result and the above comparison determination Is very clear and easy to understand, and the possibility that the player has distrust is extremely low.

  Further, in this example, a sorting ball flow path (the first sorting ball flow path 55 and the second sorting ball flow path 56) that causes the game balls distributed by the distribution member 53 to flow down to any of the plurality of winning areas. The sorting ball flow path is supported in a balance-like manner with a shaft 63 in the center of the sorting ball flow path, and is configured to be swingable based on the weight of the game ball flowing down. For this reason, the sorting ball flow down to the side of the winning area where the number of distributed game balls is large, and this movement causes the player to flow down the gaming ball to the winning area selected by the player. It can be easily confirmed at a glance, and the game for determining the specific game state becomes easier to understand. In addition, as the distribution ball progresses in the middle of the distribution situation, the above-mentioned allocating ball flow path tilts toward one winning area, or the other winning area, so the player is glad about this movement. It is possible to achieve a high level of excitement.

  Further, in this example, the plurality of winning areas are configured by sorting sphere storage means (first and second sorting sphere storage units 59, 60) that can store the game balls that have flowed down by the sorting ball flow path, The distribution ball flow path is inclined according to the amount of game balls stored in the distribution ball storage means, and the game balls in the distribution ball storage means are visible. It is possible to visually notify the player of the amount of game balls stored in the divided ball storage means so that the player can clearly and easily know the distribution situation and the distribution result. In particular, it is possible to easily and clearly know the storage state of the sorting ball storage means selected by the player himself using the selection means. Therefore, the player can clearly recognize whether or not the specific game state is set based on the storage state, and the possibility that the player has distrust is further reduced.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this example, a probability variation determining accessory (specific game determining accessory) is provided beside the normal first type variation display device. Since the configuration on the frame side and the like may be the same as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements as those in the first embodiment, and a duplicate description is omitted.

A. First, the front structure of the game board 10a of this example will be described. As shown in FIG. 15, the game board 10 a includes an out-ball inlet 32, a fluctuation display device 33 (including a general-purpose start memory display and a general-purpose display), a normal electric accessory type start winning opening 34, This is usually provided to surround the front side of the display unit of the variable display device 33. Center case 50a (in this case, set to the left of the center of the game board 10a), a probability variation determining accessory 70 provided on the right side of the center case 50a, and the like.
A general winning opening may be provided at the top of the center case 50a. Further, in this case, the probability variation determining accessory 70 also functions as a general winning opening.

B. Detailed Configuration of Probability Fluctuation Determinant Next, a detailed configuration of the probability variation determining accessory 70 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 16 is a front view of the probability variation determining accessory 70, and FIG. 17A is a perspective view (partially broken) of the probability variation determining accessory 70. FIG. 17B is a longitudinal sectional view of a stopper portion of the probability variation determining accessory 70.

As shown in FIG. 16, the probability variation determining accessory 70 is provided with a game ball introduction unit 71 in the upper part and a ball appearance determination unit 72 in the lower part.
An upper surface of the game ball introducing portion 71 is opened, and an introduction flow path 73 (see FIG. 5) is provided on both sides of the upper portion of the game ball introducing portion 71 to allow the game balls that have flowed down from above the probability variation determining accessory 70 to flow into the center. 17 (a)) is formed, and in the center of the bottom portion of the game ball introducing portion 71, a holding portion 74 (game ball holding means) for holding only one inflowing game ball is provided.
Note that the upper side of the inner space of the probability variation determining accessory 70 (the lower portion of the game ball introducing portion 71) constitutes a specific region of the present invention.

  In addition, a downflow path 75 for lowering the game ball held in the holding section 74 toward the back is formed on the back side of the holding section 74 in the game ball introduction section 71, and the game that has flowed down from the end of the downflow path 75 The sphere is configured to fall into the sphere display determination unit 72. Further, a stopper 76 (game ball holding means) that opens and closes this portion is provided between the holding portion 74 and the downflow path 75. The stopper 76 is driven by a stopper SOL 151 shown in FIG. 18 to move up and down, and moves to a closed position for closing the flow path and an open position for opening the flow path. When the stopper 76 is in the closed position, the game ball is retained in the retaining portion 74, and when the stopper 76 is in the open position, the game ball passes through the retaining portion 74 and flows down to the downflow path 75. Note that the game ball held in the holding unit 74 is detected by the holding ball detection sensor 152 (shown in FIG. 18).

  In addition, an upright wall 77 that prevents direct inflow of game balls to the ball display determination unit 72 is formed on the upper front side of the ball display determination unit 72. When the game ball is held in the holding unit 74, the game ball that has flowed into the game ball introducing unit 71 later is released by colliding with the hold ball as shown in FIG. It flows down the upper surface of the standing wall 77 and is returned to the game area (outside the accessory 70).

Then, on the inner peripheral surface of the ball appearance determination unit 72 (holding ball sorting means), as shown in FIG. 17A, a spiral flow path for causing the game ball that has flowed down from the end of the flow-down path 75 to flow down spirally. 78 (holding ball distribution means) is formed, and a determination table 79 (with three determination holes 80a, 80b, and 80c (flowing area) arranged evenly on the bottom surface of the ball display determination unit 72 is provided. Holding ball distribution means) is provided. Here, the determination table 79 is configured such that the game ball that has flowed down via the spiral flow path 78 flows in, and the game ball falls downward from any of the determination holes. The game balls falling from the determination holes 80a, 80b, and 80c are detected by the first detection sensor 81a, the second detection sensor 81b, and the third detection sensor 81c (shown in FIG. 18), respectively, and are not shown. It is collected by the ball gathering member.
Note that an opening 82 is formed on the front surface of the ball appearance determination unit 72 as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, and the player can see the inside (particularly, the upper surface of the determination table 79) through the opening 82. It is possible.

C. Next, the control system of the pachinko machine of this example will be described with reference to FIG.
The input interface 102 of the game control apparatus 100 of the present example includes a special figure start sensor 131, a universal start sensor 132, a first detection sensor 81a, a second detection sensor 81b, a third detection sensor 81c, a holding ball detection sensor 152, Detection signals from the first selection switch 153, the second selection switch 154, the third selection switch 155, and the winning sensors 1 to N are input.

Here, the winning sensors 1 to N are sensors that respectively detect the winning balls that have won the general winning opening (other than the probability variation determining accessory 70).
The first selection switch 153, the second selection switch 154, and the third selection switch 155 are three switch buttons (first switches) provided instead of the first selection button 22a and the second selection button 22b of the first embodiment. The operation is performed by operating a selection button, a second selection button, a third selection button (not shown).

  On the other hand, from the output interface 103 of the game control device 100, the ordinary electric solenoid 108 that drives the tulip-shaped opening / closing member of the start winning opening 34 (ordinary variable winning device) and the attacker-type opening / closing member of the variable winning device 35a are connected. Driving the prize winning solenoid 109a to be driven, the board external connection terminal 110 for transmitting the board external information (for example, a big hit signal) to the management device of the game shop, and the shutter 76 of the holding unit 74 described above. A signal is output to the stopper SOL151 or the like.

D. Next, the characteristic part of the content of the game performed with the pachinko machine of the present embodiment will be described. Note that the outline and overall flow of the game may be the same as those of a normal first type pachinko machine, for example, the same as that described in the first embodiment.
Here, a specific game determination game that is performed at the time of a big hit with the pachinko machine of the present embodiment will be described. This game is a game for determining whether or not to generate a specific game state such as a probability variation state after a big hit. When the big hit (per special figure) ends, the player can actively enjoy this game by pressing any one of the first selection button, the second selection button, and the third selection button described above.

First, from the big hit start to the big hit end, that is, during the big hit game, the stopper 76 is lowered to the closed position so that only one game ball can be held. For this reason, if the player makes a slight right-hand strike aiming at the object 70 during the big hit and wins at least one game ball in the object 70, the game ball is held in the holding unit 74 described above.
Next, from the end of the big hit game to the start of the normal game, the operation of each selection button becomes valid, and the player has a game ball in any of the above-described three determination holes 80a, 80b, 80c. In anticipation of winning, the corresponding selection button (for example, the first selection button for the determination hole 80a) can be operated to select the determination hole predicted to win.

Next, when the selection button is operated, the stopper rises to the open position, the reserved ball is released, and flows down into the ball display determination unit 72 of the accessory 70, and further flows onto the determination table 79, and the three A prize is awarded to one of the determination holes 80a, 80b, and 80c.
If the determination hole in which the game ball is won matches the determination hole selected by the player, the probability variation game is started, and if it does not match, the normal game with no probability variation is started.
If none of the selection buttons are operated or the game ball is not held in the bonus item 70, as in the case of the conventional first type of pachinko machine, according to the fluctuation display result of the special figure (for control purposes, it is a random number). It is determined whether or not a probability variation is made (based on the above).

  Therefore, after the player performs the right-handed operation (the operation of driving a game ball into the accessory 70) as described above, the player does not know which judgment hole the winning ball will eventually win in the accessory 70. This game (specific game determination game) can be actively enjoyed by predicting a definite and uncertain result in advance and pressing any one selection button with a feeling of betting on any one. In addition, in this case, the holding ball flows to the determination table 79 having the determination hole while moving spirally through the spiral flow path 78, and moves so as to turn on the determination table 79. Since the player wins the determination hole, the player pays attention to the movement of the holding ball and is thrilled while enjoying the visual fun.

E. Next, the characteristic part of the control content performed by the control system described above will be described.
Note that the main routine, timer interrupt processing, and the like may be the same as the normal control processing of the first type pachinko machine, and the flowchart may be the same as that shown in FIGS. 8 and 10 of the first embodiment, for example.

(A) Big hit processing First, the big hit processing in the big hit processing in the special figure game processing will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, it is first determined in step S101 whether or not the wait flag set during the big hit interval period is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S104. Proceed to S102.
In step S102, it is determined whether or not the big winning opening release flag set during the big hit is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S106, and if not set, the process proceeds to step S103.

Next, in step S103, the special winning opening release flag is set, the special winning opening open timer is set (time measurement is started), the special winning opening SOL ON information is set, and the stopper SOL ON information is further set, and then the process returns. The stopper SOL ON information is information for driving and controlling the stopper SOL 151. When this ON information is set, the stopper SOL 151 is driven and the stopper 76 is brought into a closed position as shown in FIG. 17B, for example. Moving. The special winning opening SOL on information is information for driving the special winning opening SOL 109a. When this on information is set, the special winning opening SOL 109a is driven and the opening member of the special winning opening 35a is opened. .
On the other hand, in step S104, it is determined whether or not a predetermined wait timer forming the big hit interval period has expired. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S105, and if not, the process returns.

Next, in step S105, since the interval period has ended, the weight flag is reset (cancellation of the set state), and the big winning opening SOL on information is set to start a new jackpot round, and then the process returns.
On the other hand, in step S106, it is determined whether or not the big prize opening timer has timed up. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S108, and if not, the process proceeds to step S107.

In step S107, it is determined whether or not the value of the total count memory (the number of winning balls to the big winning opening) is less than the limit number (for example, 10), and if it is less than the limit number, the process returns to continue the round. If so, the process proceeds to step S108 to end the round.
Next, in step S108, in order to end the big hit round, the big winning opening SOL off information is set. The special winning opening SOL off information is information for stopping the driving of the special winning opening SOL 109a. When this off information is set, the driving of the special winning opening SOL 109a is stopped and the opening member of the special winning opening 35a is closed. It becomes.

After step S108, the process proceeds to step S109, where the number of cycles (number of big hits) is updated (counted up), the big prize opening timer is set, and the total count memory is reset (initialized to 0).
After step S109, it is determined in step S110 whether or not the number of cycles is less than the upper limit of 16, and if it is less than 16, the process proceeds to step S111, otherwise the process proceeds to step S112.

In step S111, in order to start an interval period before starting the next cycle (big hit round), a wait flag is set, a wait timer is set, and the process returns.
In step S112, an initialization process for shifting to the big hit end process is executed, and then the process returns. That is, here, the count value of the number of cycles is reset to 0, the special winning opening release flag is reset, the ending game timer is set, and the processing number is set to C. The ending game timer is a timer (a timer for counting the valid time of the selection button) for waiting for the player's operation of the selection button for the specific game determination game (ending game).

(H) Big hit end process Next, the big hit end process in the big hit process will be described with reference to FIG.
When this routine is started, it is first determined in step S121 whether or not an ending flag is set. If it is set, the process proceeds to step S131, and if not, the process proceeds to step S122.
In step S122, it is determined whether or not there is a holding ball in the holding unit 74, and if there is, the process proceeds to step S123. If not, the process proceeds to step S133 in order to determine the occurrence of the probability variation with the big hit symbol.
Next, in step S123, it is determined whether or not the ending game timer has timed up. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S124, and if not, the process proceeds to step S125.

In step S125, it is determined whether or not the first detection sensor 81a (selection SWa) corresponding to the first selection button is turned on. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S126. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S127.
Next, in step S127, it is determined whether or not the second detection sensor 81b (selection SWb) corresponding to the second selection button is turned on. If affirmative, the process proceeds to step S128, and if negative, the process proceeds to step S129.
Next, in step S129, it is determined whether or not the third detection sensor 81c (selection SWc) corresponding to the third selection button is turned on. If the determination is affirmative, the process returns to step S130, and if negative, the process returns.
In steps S126, S128, and S130, selection information (information on which of the determination holes 80a, 80b, and 80c the player has selected in the specific game determination game) is indicated by A (information on selection of the determination hole 80a). ), B (information for selecting the determination hole 80b) and C (information for selecting the determination hole 80c), and return.

On the other hand, in step S124, the stopper SOL off information is set, the ending flag is set, the game timer is set, and the process returns.
The stopper SOL off information is information for stopping the driving of the stopper SOL 151. When this off information is set, the driving of the stopper SOL 151 is stopped and the stopper 76 is moved as shown in FIG. 17A, for example. Move to the open position.
In addition, since the game timer requires some time from when the held ball is released until it is detected by any of the detection sensors 81a, 81b, 81c, the game timer counts a detection waiting time for securing the time for it. It is a timer.

On the other hand, in step S131, it is determined whether or not the game timer has expired. If the time has expired, the process proceeds to step S132, and if not, the process returns to wait for detection by the detection sensor.
In step S132, it is determined whether any of the selection buttons has been operated, that is, whether any of the selection information has been set. If it has been set, the process proceeds to step S134. Proceed to step S133 to determine the occurrence of probability fluctuation with the symbol.

In step S133, it is determined whether or not the jackpot symbol is an odd number. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S136. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S135.
In step S134, the selection information of the specific game determination game (which one of the determination holes 80a, 80b, 80c is selected by the player) and the actual detection result (which of the detection sensors 81a, 81b, 81c) If it does not match (if the player's prediction is not expected), the process proceeds to step S135. If they match (if the player's prediction is correct), The process proceeds to step S136.

In step S135, the probability variation flag is reset on the assumption that the result of the specific game decision game is out. When the probability variation flag is reset, the probability variation state after the big hit (specific game state) does not occur.
On the other hand, in step S136, the probability variation flag is set assuming that the result of the specific game decision game is a win. When the probability variation flag is set, a probability variation state (specific game state) after a big hit occurs.

Note that in steps S135 and S136, a flag indicating whether or not to perform special time or ordinary time reduction control may be set or reset.
After steps S135 and S136, in step S137, various processes for ending the big hit end process (big hit process) are executed and the process returns. As these various processes, there are a process of resetting the ending flag and setting the process number to 0 in the special figure game process.

The main points of the operation (game content, etc.) of the pachinko machine executed by the control process described above will be described as follows.
That is, during a normal game that is not being a big hit, the stopper 76 is controlled to open, and the probability variation determining accessory 70 functions as a general winning opening. During the big hit, the stopper 76 is controlled to close (step S103), so the probability variation determining accessory 70 holds only one winning ball in the holding unit 74. When the big hit ends, the ending game timer is set (step S112), the effective time of the selection button for the specific game decision game is started, and the player can perform the selection operation based on the above-mentioned prediction.
Next, at the end of the big hit, (A) if there is a holding ball and the selection button is operated, (B) if there is a holding ball and the selection button is not operated, (C) the holding ball is If not, it will be described in three parts.

(A) When there is a holding ball and the selection button is operated In this case, first, after steps S121 to S123, steps S125 to S130 are executed to determine whether any of the selection buttons is turned on. The selection information corresponding to the selected selection button is set.
Next, in a sequence at the time when the ending game timer has timed up, step S124 is executed, the stopper 76 is released, and the above-described detection waiting time is started. When the stopper 76 is opened, the above-described flow-down of the retaining ball in the accessory 70 starts and finally wins any one of the determination holes.

  When the detection waiting time elapses, step S134 is executed through step S131 and step S132, and selection information (a determination hole in which the player expected to win a prize; selection result) and a detection result of the detection sensor (actually won a prize) It is determined whether or not the determination holes (distribution results) match, and if they match, control for generating a probability variation state is executed (step S136). If they do not match, the probability variation state is not generated. Control is executed (step S135).

(B) When there is a holding ball and the selection button is not operated In this case, after the detection waiting time elapses, the process proceeds to step S133 through step S132, and it is determined whether or not the jackpot symbol is an odd number. Is called. In other words, since the effective time for selection has ended without the selection button being operated, the occurrence of probability fluctuation is determined based on the jackpot symbol. Then, if the jackpot symbol is an odd number, a control that causes a probability variation state is executed (step S136), and if it is not an odd number, a control that does not cause the probability variation state is performed (step S135).

(C) When there is no reserved ball In this case, since the process proceeds to step S133 through step S122, the occurrence of probability variation is similarly determined based on the big hit symbol. That is, if the jackpot symbol is an odd number, control for generating a probability variation state is executed (step S136), and if it is not an odd number, control for not generating a probability variation state is executed (step S135).

  According to the pachinko machine of this example described above, the game ball that has flowed into the specific area (the accessory 70) is held by the game ball holding means (stopper 76), and is distributed by the distribution result selection means (selection button). When the result is selected, whether or not to generate a specific game by the changing means (the function that the game control device 100 switches the determination condition for occurrence of probability variation as described above) is specified in the specific area (the accessory 70). First determination means (a function in which the game control device 100 determines the occurrence of probability fluctuations based on winning of the bonus item 70) is made effective based on the inflow of the game balls. Then, as described above, if the actual distribution result of the holding ball matches the selection result (player's expectation) by the function of the first determination means, a probability variation state occurs. The probability fluctuation state does not occur. For this reason, the player himself can be basically involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific gaming state, and the determination method can be made clear and easy to understand, thereby enhancing the interest of the game.

  Moreover, even if the game ball that has flowed into the specific area is not held by the game ball holding means (stopper 76) (when the game ball cannot be put into the accessory 70 at the timing described above), the change means specifies the game ball. Conversion to second determination means (a function in which the game control device 100 determines the occurrence of probability fluctuation based on the jackpot symbol) that determines whether or not a game is generated based on the stop result mode of the variable display game. Therefore, while the player himself is basically involved in determining whether or not to generate a specific game state, the interest is enhanced, while the game ball does not flow into the specific area and the specific game state is not generated. It is possible to prevent the player from detrimental to the occurrence of the player, and to prevent the player's interest from being improved.

  In addition, when the distribution result is not selected by the distribution result selection means (select button), the changing means determines whether or not the specific game state is generated by the second determination means. For example, it is possible to prevent a player from suffering a disadvantage by performing a game for determining whether or not to generate a specific gaming state for a player who has forgotten to select a distribution result. Therefore, also in this respect, it is possible to prevent hindering the improvement of the player's interests.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible.
For example, three or more winning areas may be provided instead of two.
Further, a V winning opening may be provided in the big winning opening (or the downstream side of the large winning opening), and winning in the V winning opening may be a necessary condition for continuing the big hit round.
Alternatively, if the number of winning balls to the big winning opening is 10 or less, the continuation of the big hit round may be stopped and the specific game determination game may not be played.

  Moreover, it should be thought that the Example disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

10 game board 22a, 22b selection button (selection means)
33 Fluctuation display device 35 Fluctuation winning device 53 Distribution member (distribution means)
54 Sorting channel (sorting means)
55 First sorting ball flow path 56 Second sorting ball flow path 59 First sorting ball storage section (winning area, sorting ball storage means)
60 Second distribution ball storage unit (winning area, distribution ball storage means)
57 First count sensor (sorting ball detecting means)
58 Second count sensor (sorting ball detection means)
63 shaft (support)
70 Probability change determining object (specific area)
72 Ball show determination unit (holding ball sorting means)
74 Reservation part (game ball holding means)
76 Stopper (game ball holding means)
78 Spiral channel (holding ball distribution means)
79 Determination table (holding ball distribution means)
80a, 80b, 80c Judgment hole (flowing area)
100 game control device (special game control means, comparison determination means, specific game control means, distributed ball counting means, change means)
134 First selection switch (selection means)
135 Second selection switch (selection means)
153 First selection switch (selection means)
154 Second selection switch (selection means)
155 Third selection switch (selection means)

Claims (5)

A variable display device that can display a plurality of identification information in a variable manner and execute a variable display game;
Based on the stop result mode of the variation display game, a variable winning device that can vary between a first state in which a game ball is not accepted or difficult to accept, and a second state in which a game ball is easily accepted,
Special game control means capable of generating a special game for causing the variable prize apparatus to change to the second state when the change result game stop result mode is a predetermined special display mode;
In a gaming machine equipped with
A plurality of game balls can be won in the variable winning device,
A distribution means for distributing a plurality of game balls won in the variable winning device to a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball detecting means for detecting the game balls distributed by the sorting means for each of a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball counting means for counting the game balls detected by the sorting ball detecting means for each of a plurality of winning areas;
Sorting ball count comparing means for comparing the number of game balls counted by the sorting ball counting means for each winning area;
A selection means for causing a player to predict a distribution result by the distribution means in advance, and for allowing the player to select the distribution result;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the distribution result by the distribution unit and the selection result by the selection unit;
First specific game control means capable of generating a specific game different from the special game based on the determination result of the comparison determination means;
A second specific game control means capable of generating a specific game different from the special game in response to the stop result mode of the variable display game that has become the special display mode;
With
The distribution result is one in which any one of the plurality of winning areas is selected based on the distributed ball count comparing means .
Said selection means is for the player to select one of said plurality of winning areas in anticipation of the allocation results,
The comparison determination unit, the sorting result, the is the winning area selected by the selection means, a game machine which is characterized in that the comparison and determination by determining whether or not matching. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when any of the plurality of winning areas is not selected by the selection unit, the generation of the specific gaming machine is determined by the second specific game control unit. A sorting ball flow path for causing the game balls distributed by the sorting means to flow down to the winning area is provided for each winning area,
The sorting ball flow path is supported in a balance-like manner by a support portion arranged at the center of the sorting ball flow path, and is configured to be capable of tilting based on the weight of the game ball flowing down. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2 . Providing a sorting ball storing means capable of receiving and storing game balls flowing down by the sorting ball flow path, and forming the winning area by the sorting ball storing means;
In accordance with the amount of game balls stored in the allocating ball storing means, the allocating ball flow downway is inclined,
4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the allocating ball storage means is configured to visually recognize a game ball stored therein. The first specific game control means and the second specific game control means are:
5. The probability varying game in which the probability that the stop result mode of the variable display game becomes a special display mode is changed to a high probability state can be generated as the specific game. Game machines.

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