JP5375914B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress a decrease in interest in a game caused by occurrence of "a decrease in balls" during an opening extension game after completion of a jackpot game. <P>SOLUTION: In a game machine, where a variable start opening changes to an open state with a passage of a game ball through a passing gate as an opportunity to perform a jackpot lottery based on entry of a game ball into the variable start opening, to perform a jackpot game for permitting the entry of a game ball into a big winning opening by winning of the jackpot lottery, to deliver a winning ball when the game ball enters the variable start opening and the big winning opening, and to perform the opening extension game for extending open time of the variable start opening after the completion of the jackpot game, until a progress situation of the jackpot game reaches a specific stage, winning balls are delivered on the basis of entry of a game ball into the big winning opening at a normal speed, and after the progress situation of the jackpot game reaches the specific stage, winning balls are delivered on the basis of entry of a game ball into the big winning openig at a special speed lower than the normal speed. Even in an opening extension game after completion of the jackpot game, winning balls are delivered on the basis of entry of game balls into the big winning opening during the jackpot game at a special speed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2013,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a pachinko gaming machine.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, during the big hit game, the game ball (prize ball) corresponding to the game ball entering the big prize opening is paid out by the payout device. In addition, after the jackpot game is over, there are many cases in which an open extension game is performed in which the opening time of a starting port (so-called electric chew) constituted by an ordinary electric accessory is extended (see Patent Document 1). ). In the open extension game, the game ball can be played without reducing the number of hand-held game balls (held balls) by increasing the frequency of entering the game balls into the starting opening (electrical chew). The state is also referred to as “electric support state (electric chew support state)”.

JP 08-332265 A

  In an extended extended game (electric support state) after the end of the big hit game, it is common to advance the game using a game ball (prize ball) that is paid out during the big hit game (held ball game). However, if it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the passage gate that triggers the opening of the start opening (electrical chew) or the game ball is not close to the starting opening (electrical chow), the electric power after the big hit game will be In the support state, “ball reduction” in which the number of game balls on hand decreases is likely to occur. The electric support state is a game state that can aim for the next big hit without reducing the large number of game balls (prize balls) acquired by the big hit game, so such “ball loss” occurs in the electric support state. Then, there is a problem that the player's irritation and a decrease in the entertainment interest of the player are caused.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to suppress a decrease in game entertainment due to the occurrence of “ball reduction” in an open extended game (electric support state) after the end of a big hit game.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
A passing gate through which game balls can pass,
A variable start port that can be in an open state in which the possibility of entering the game ball is increased when the game ball passes through the passing gate;
Lottery means for performing a big hit lottery based on a game ball entering the variable start port;
It is possible to change between a state in which a game ball can be entered and a state in which a game ball can be entered.
A payout device for paying out a prize ball when a game ball enters at least the variable start opening and when a game ball enters the big prize opening;
When winning the jackpot lottery, the jackpot game execution means for performing the jackpot game that allows the game ball to enter the jackpot until a predetermined jackpot execution period elapses;
An open extended game execution means for performing an open extended game for extending the open time in which the variable start port is in the open state after the jackpot game ends, until a predetermined open extended execution period elapses;
A gaming machine equipped with
Determining means for determining whether or not the progress status of the jackpot game has reached a specific stage before the jackpot execution period has elapsed;
Until it is determined that the determination means has reached the specific stage, the award balls are paid out at a normal speed based on the game balls entering the large winning opening, and the determination means has reached the specific stage. After the determination, the payout control means for controlling the payout device so as to perform the payout of the winning ball based on the entry of the game ball to the big winning opening at a special speed slower than the normal speed,
The payout control means is configured to perform payout of a winning ball at the special speed based on the entering of a game ball into the big winning opening during the big hit game also in the open extended game after the big hit game is finished. Further, the payout device is controlled.

  In this way, the winning ball is paid out at a normal speed until reaching a specific stage in the big hit game, and after reaching the specific stage, the winning ball is paid out at a low special speed. It is possible to realize an extraordinary gameability in which the payout of the winning ball by entering the game ball into the big winning port is surely performed even in the open extension game after the big hit game ends. As a result, it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the passing gate and the game ball is not close to the variable start port. Even if the ball efficiency is poor, the payout of award balls that occurred during the big hit game will continue to be performed during the extended game, so you can feel the impression that a “ball reduction” has occurred during the extended game. Can be difficult to give to the person.

In the gaming machine of the present invention,
The payout control means controls the payout device so as to pay out a prize ball at the special speed based on a game ball entering the variable start port during the open extended game.

  As a result, the payout of prize balls generated during the open extension game is performed at a low speed even after the payout of the prize ball by the game ball entering the big prize opening during the big hit game is completed. It is possible to make it difficult to give the player the impression that “ball loss” has occurred.

In the gaming machine of the present invention,
When the big hit lottery is won and the big hit game is started during the extended extended game, the payout control means plays the game to the big prize opening until the judging means judges that the specific stage has been reached. The payout of the winning ball based on the entering of the ball is performed at the normal speed, and after the determination means determines that the specific stage has been reached, the payout of the winning ball based on the entering of the game ball into the big winning opening The payout device is controlled so as to be performed at the special speed.

  As a result, when a big hit game is started during the extended extended game, it is possible to quickly pay out a winning ball from the start of the big hit game until the specific stage is reached.

In the gaming machine of the present invention,
When the opening extension game is over due to the elapse of the opening extension execution period without winning the jackpot lottery during the opening extension game, the payout control means returns to the variable start port after the opening extension game ends. The payout device is controlled so that award balls are paid out at the normal speed based on the game balls.

  This makes it difficult to give the player the impression of “ball reduction” during the extended game, and allows the player to quickly pay out the winning ball after the extended game has ended.

  According to the configuration of the present invention described above, it is possible to suppress a decrease in game entertainment due to the occurrence of “ball loss” during an open extended game after the end of a big hit game.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a front view of the back mechanism board of a gaming machine. It is a front view which shows the internal structure of a game ball dispensing apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows a part of game ball dispensing apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows a game start process. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation display related process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball payout process of 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball payout process of 2nd Example.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot game is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is started as a trigger. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 includes a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. An effect button 5d, a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge 5a.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, a central device 24, a normal symbol operating gate 27, a starting port 28, a big winning device 33, left winning ports 34 and 35, right winning ports 36 and 37, a first decorative member 50, and a second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is arranged at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25 on the inner side (inner peripheral side). The effect display device 25 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  The big prize device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21, the first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the second decoration device 60 is arranged in the game area 21. It is arranged on the right side of the big winning device 33. The decoration devices 50 and 60 constitute a so-called side decoration. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 6) for detecting the passage of a game ball flowing down on the game board is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27, the normal symbol starts to be changed. The normal symbol operating gate 27 corresponds to the “pass gate” of the present invention.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side. In the present embodiment, the same number (three in this embodiment) of winning balls is obtained when a game ball enters the first start port 28a and when a game ball enters the second start port 28b. To be paid out. The number of prize balls for the first start port 28a and the number of prize balls for the second start port 28b are, for example, such that the number of prize balls for the first start port 28a is larger than the number of prize balls for the second start port 28b, The number of prize balls at the second start port 28b may be different from each other, for example, by increasing the number of prize balls at the first start port 28a.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable start port in which changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and is in a closed state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (injection) Including the impossible state). The second starting port 28b functions as an ordinary electric accessory. When a normal symbol is hit and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to receive the game ball in the second starting port 28b. The entrance is enlarged. The opening and closing of the second start port 28b is controlled by the main control unit 200.

  Inside the start port 28, a first start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 6) for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the first start port 28a and the entry of the game ball into the second start port 28b. A second start-entrance ball detection switch 28t (see FIG. 6) for detecting a sphere and a start-port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 6) for operating the pair of blade pieces are provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. The open state becomes higher than the first start port 28a. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second starting port 28b is in a closed state in which the possibility of entering a game ball is lower than that of the first starting port 28a. In the present embodiment, the first start port 28a is disposed immediately above the second start port 28b. When the second start port 28b is in the closed state, the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is It will be in the state covered with the bottom face of the wall member which comprises the outline of the 1st starting port 28. FIG. Thus, when the second start port 28b is in the closed state, the game ball cannot enter the second start port 28b, and only when the second start port 28b is in the open state, the second start port 28b. It is possible to enter a game ball into the.

  When the game ball enters one of the first start port 28a and the second start port 28b, a special symbol which will be described later starts variable display. In the following description, the description that “the game ball enters the start port 28” means that the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b unless otherwise specified. means.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 6) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 6) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. In each of these winning openings 34 to 37, winning opening entrance detection switches 34s to 37s (see FIG. 6) are provided, respectively, and according to the entering of the game balls into these winning openings 34 to 37, A predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of prize balls is paid out.

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a combination of these LEDs constitutes a normal symbol display portion 51, a general symbol hold display portion 52, and a special symbol hold display portion 53. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a special symbol display unit 61 is configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change (in the present embodiment, blinking LED) when the game ball passes through the normal symbol actuating gate 27, and the normal symbol hits the normal symbol after a predetermined time. The display is stopped in the display mode (LED lighting display in the present embodiment) or the display pattern of the off-normal symbol (LED OFF display in the present embodiment). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not operated, a short opening pattern in which a normal opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) is set is set, and normally when the opening time extending function is operated. A long-time opening pattern in which an extended opening time (for example, 5 seconds) longer than the opening time is set is set.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining normal symbol success / failure is prepared, and this random number for determining normal symbol determination is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the second start port 28b. Is used to determine whether or not to operate a normal symbol (whether or not to make it open). A hit value is set in advance for the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination, and a hit is determined when the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination obtained at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the winning value. Is done. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be a win, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is performed and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Along with the holding of the normal symbol, a random number for determining whether or not the normal symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  The determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the holding of the normal symbol and the holding of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. And among the special symbol combinations displayed by the seven LEDs, a specific combination is set as a big hit symbol (big hit special symbol), and other than the big hit symbol is set as an out symbol (out special symbol) . In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  Next, when the game ball enters the start port 28 (the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b), the special symbol starts to fluctuate in the special symbol display unit 61, and the special symbol is a big hit after a predetermined time elapses. A symbol variation game that is stopped and displayed in a symbol or out-of-sequence symbol is performed.

  In this embodiment, a special symbol success / failure random number is provided that is acquired when a game ball enters the start opening 28 and is used for special symbol success / failure judgment (big hit lottery) as to whether or not to execute the jackpot game. Yes. Furthermore, a big hit type determination random number (big hit symbol determination random number) for determining the big hit symbol is provided. As the game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a jackpot type determination random number are acquired. The acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and the jackpot type determination random number are stored in the main control unit 200. Is stored as a hold in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The special symbol hold display unit 53 is composed of two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, turning on, and blinking of the two LEDs.

  The number of game balls that have entered the starting port 28 can be reserved until the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of special symbol reservations. The special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the start port 28 and is stored in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (special symbol success / failure). This corresponds to the number of random numbers for determination and random numbers for determining special symbols. In this embodiment, as the game ball enters the start port 28, the special symbol determination random number is also acquired together with the special symbol success / failure determination random number. Therefore, the special symbol holding number is also stored in the number of jackpot type determination random numbers stored. Equivalent to. The number of special symbol reservations is digested each time a special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the special symbol is started, and decreases by one. The special symbol holding storage and holding digest are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a hit value for success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the big hit value (hit winning value). The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts the variable display.

  When the special symbol success / failure determination random number coincides with the winning value (when winning the jackpot lottery), it is determined to be a jackpot, and the special symbol stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the jackpot symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big win (if the winner is a lottery lottery), the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is unacceptable, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 becomes an outlier It is determined.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern specifies the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence (effect content) of the reach effect or the notice effect in the variation, and multiple types of variation patterns are associated with the random number for determining the variation pattern. Included in the pattern table. The special symbol variation pattern is selected by lottery from the variation pattern table when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed and the variation display of the special symbol is started. A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected and used according to the gaming state.

  Further, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is determined, the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol, the determination of the stop symbol of the special symbol, the variation display of the special symbol and the stop display (symbol variation game) are performed by the main control unit 200 described later Has been.

  Next, the jackpot game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (when the result of the special symbol hit / decision determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 as the “big hit game execution means” The jackpot game that is advantageous to the player is started. The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. In the big hit game, the big prize winning device 33 is operated until a predetermined big hit execution period elapses, in other words, the big prize opening 33a is opened and closed a plurality of times, thereby allowing the player to enter the game ball into the big prize opening 33a. Profit (prize ball) is given. The big hit game is realized by the main control unit 200 repeatedly executing a big hit game process described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 prize balls for one prize ball) are received according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. To be paid out. Specifically, the big prize opening / closing operation for switching the big prize opening 33a between the open state and the closed state by operating the big prize device 33 at the start of the big hit game is continuously performed a plurality of times. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined end condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 33a reaches a predetermined opening time (30 seconds in the present embodiment), or the number of game balls that have entered the open large winning opening 33a is a predetermined number (this number In the embodiment, it is possible to reach 10).

  In the case where one round game is performed from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended when a predetermined number of round games are performed. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is completed, that is, after a predetermined interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since the grand prize winning opening 33a is closed, the special winning prize opening 33a is again opened. The game is opened and the next round game starts. The opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big prize opening 33a is repeated until a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (16 rounds in this embodiment) is finished. In the jackpot game of this embodiment, the opening time of the big winning opening 33a is set to be long, and the possibility of executing a prescribed number (10) of entering the big winning opening 33a and paying out the winning balls accompanying this is extremely high. It is high and is positioned as a “game with a ball” that allows a large number of prize balls to be acquired.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called short-time game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. In this embodiment, multiple types of jackpots are set as a result of the special symbol success / failure determination, and if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol), the jackpot game ends. When the short-time game is started later and the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable big hit symbol), the probable variable game is started after the big hit game ends. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively. Note that a game played in a state in which the opening time extension function is activated is referred to as an “open extension game”. The open extension game is played until a predetermined release extension execution period elapses after the big hit game ends.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game is over, the variable time shortening function and the opening time extension for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b are extended. The function is activated and the short-time game is started.

  The variation time shortening function (variation time shortening means) includes a normal symbol variation time shortening function for shortening the normal symbol variation time and a special symbol variation time shortening function for shortening the special symbol variation time. By the activation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the normal opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) to the extended opening time (for example, 5 seconds). As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b becomes higher than normal (when the opening extension function is not activated). The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated after the big hit game is finished until the next big hit game is started, or when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 times in this example). Exit. When the operation of the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function is completed, the game is shifted to the normal game where the opening time of the second start port 28b is the normal opening time.

  The “electric support state (electric support support state)” in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extension function are activated is the second start port compared to the non-electric support state in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extension function are not activated. The opening frequency (opening frequency, opening time) of 28b (electricity chew) is remarkably improved. In the electric support state, the frequency of entering a special symbol is increased by increasing the frequency of entering a game ball into the second start port 28b, and a big hit game is likely to occur. For this reason, in the electric support state, the symbol variation game can be advantageously advanced to the player as compared to the non-electric support state.

  The variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are started and stopped under the control of the main control unit 200, and the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start simultaneously and operate simultaneously. finish. In the following description, when only one of the functions related to the operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is described, the other function is also paired. For example, when it is described in the following description that “the variable time shortening function is operating”, this description can be interpreted as “the opening time extending function is also operating”. When it is described that “the function is operating”, this description can be understood as “the variable time reduction function is operating”. The main control unit 200 corresponds to “open extended game execution means” of the present invention.

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable big hit symbol), after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function starts to operate, and the probable variable game is started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, in addition to the above-described variable time shortening function and opening time extension function, the probability of special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the special symbol is a big hit symbol. A probability variation function (probability variation means) that changes (improves) the probability of stop display is activated. While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of winning or failing determination increases, so that the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination becomes a big hit is improved. The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a symbol change effect is performed on the effect display device 25 in accordance with the execution of the special symbol change game performed using the special symbol display unit 61. As the symbol variation effect, for example, a variation display effect for variably displaying an effect symbol composed of numeric symbols in conjunction with a variation display of the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 61, a reach effect performed during the variation display of the effect symbol, etc. Is mentioned. Note that there are a plurality of types of effect contents, and effect image data is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Next, the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 will be described. The effect symbol is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol variation display and the stop display of the special symbol display unit 61. As shown in FIG. 2, the display area of the effect display device 25 includes a left symbol display area where a left symbol is displayed, a middle symbol display area where a middle symbol is displayed, and a right symbol display area where a right symbol is displayed. A configured effect symbol display section is provided. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction). Each symbol display area can display symbols consisting of “1” to “9”.

  When the special symbol starts variable display when the special symbol starts to change, and the special symbol is stopped and displayed on any of the symbols, the direct symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol corresponding to the stop symbol of the special symbol. The In the effect symbol, a symbol combination having the same three digits corresponds to the special symbol jackpot symbol, and the other symbol combinations correspond to the special symbol missing symbol.

  The design pattern variation mode (variation pattern) and stop symbol determination are configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on a variation pattern designation command and a stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Then, based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines the effect pattern of the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display unit of the effect display device 25. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 displays the stop symbol of the effect symbol that is stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit of the effect display device 25. decide.

  Further, in the display area of the effect display device 25, a hit-related effect accompanying the progress of the big hit game is performed during the big hit game. The hit-related effects include a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) executed at the start of the jackpot game, a round effect (big hit game effect) executed during the jackpot game, and a jackpot game end effect (ending) executed at the end of the jackpot game Production). These hit-related effects are executed based on a command transmitted from the main control unit 200 as the sub-control unit 260 described later progresses in the big hit game.

  Next, the back surface structure of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view of the back mechanism board 102 of the gaming machine 1.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the back mechanism board 102 is provided on the opposite surface of the game board 20 in the middle frame 3, and is attached to the middle frame 3 by a pair of hinges 103 so as to be opened and closed. In the upper left part of the back mechanism board 102, a game ball tank 105 having a tank ball cut detection switch 104 on its inner surface is provided. The game ball tank 105 stores payout game balls supplied from an external supply device. The bottom surface of the game ball tank 105 is configured to be lowered to the right when viewed from the back side of the game machine 1, and a tank rail 106 connected to the game ball tank 105 is provided below the right side of the game ball tank 105. The tank rail 106 is assembled to the back mechanism board 102 by screws, and is inclined from the lower right corner of the game ball tank 105 to the upper side of the game ball payout device 109.

  A ball removal lever 107 is provided on the right side of the tank rail 106. A game ball payout device 300 is provided on the downstream side of the ball removal lever 107. The configuration of the game ball payout device 300 will be described later. Further, on the downstream side of the tank rail 106 and above the game ball payout device 300, a case rail for changing the traveling direction of the game ball flowing down the tank rail 106 and guiding it to the game ball payout device 300 ( A game ball guiding path) 108 is provided.

  A ball collapse motor 110 is provided on the left side of the tank rail 106 and below the game ball tank 105. The ball breaker motor 110 is assembled to the back mechanism board 102 by screwing. When the tank ball breakage detection switch 104 detects that the game ball in the game ball tank 105 has run out, the game ball tank The game ball 105 is vibrated and the game ball remaining in the game ball tank 105 is completely discharged from the game ball tank 105.

  Below the tank rail 106, an effect display device 25 (see FIG. 2) is attached on the front side, and a back case 111 is provided on the back side. The back case 111 is attached to the back mechanism panel 102 by a pair of hinges 112 so as to be opened and closed. Inside the back case 111, a lamp interface board case, a main control board case, a sub control board case, and an effect display control board case are provided as game board 20 as board cases in which various control boards necessary for game control are stored. It is attached to the back side.

  Below the back case 111, a power supply board case 116 is provided on the left side, and a payout control board case 118 is provided on the right side. Further, on the upper right part of the back mechanism board 102, an external terminal board 122 having external connection terminals for gaming machine frames such as jackpot, launcher control, ball breakage, door opening, prize ball, and rental balls is provided. Yes.

  Next, a game ball payout device 300 for paying out game balls will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 is a front view showing an internal configuration of the game ball payout device 300, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a part of the game ball payout device 300. As shown in FIG. The game ball payout device 300 corresponds to the “payout device” of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the game ball payout device 300 is provided with a game ball passage 301 in the vertical direction through which a game ball supplied from the case rail 108 passes. A rotating body (sprocket) 302 that restricts the flow of the game ball is provided in the middle of the game ball passage 301. The rotating body 302 is rotationally driven by a payout motor 304 described later. As the rotating body 302 rotates, the game ball is paid out, and when the rotating body 302 stops, the payout of the game ball stops. The game balls to be paid out by the game ball payout device 300 are entered into the first start port 28a, the second start port 28b, the big winning port 33a, the left winning ports 34 and 35, and the right winning ports 36 and 37, respectively. A prize ball to be paid out for a ball (winning) and a ball to be lent to a player are included.

  Four substantially arc-shaped concave portions (ball receiving portions) are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the rotating body 302, and one game ball flowing through the game ball passage 301 can enter each concave portion. In FIG. 4, the rotating body 302 is rotatable in the clockwise direction, and sends out the game balls supplied to the game ball passage 301 one by one from the upstream side in the game ball flow direction to the downstream side in the game ball flow direction. (Paid out).

  In addition, a payout sensor 303 that detects a game ball paid out by the rotation of the rotating body 302 is provided below the rotating body 302 in the game ball passage 301 (downstream in the game ball flow direction). The payout sensor 303 can be configured by a proximity switch.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the game ball payout device 300 is provided with a payout motor 304 that rotationally drives the rotating body 302. In this embodiment, a stepping motor that rotates by a predetermined angle per step by being pulse-driven is used as the dispensing motor 304. The payout motor 304 is rotationally controlled stepwise by drive pulses generated by the payout control unit 230.

  The game ball payout device 300 is configured to control the rotation speed of the payout motor 304 so that the game ball payout speed can be switched in a plurality of stages. The game ball payout device 300 according to the present embodiment can switch the payout speed of the game ball into two stages of “normal speed” and “special speed” lower than the normal speed. At normal speed, 900 gaming balls per minute (15 per second) are paid out, and at special speed, 60 gaming balls per minute (one per second) are paid out.

  The game ball payout device 300 of this embodiment is configured to switch the payout speed when the progress status of the big hit game has reached a specific stage before the execution period of the big hit game has elapsed. Specifically, the game ball payout device 300 pays out game balls at a normal speed (900 pieces / min) until a specific stage is reached during the big hit game. Then, after reaching a specific stage during the big hit game, the payout speed is switched, and the game ball is paid out at a special speed (60 pieces / minute).

  Here, the “specific stage during the jackpot game” that triggers the switching of the game ball payout speed is when the number of game balls paid out (the number of prize balls) after the jackpot game has started reaches a predetermined number. Can do. By changing the payout speed to a special speed, the “predetermined number” continues to pay out the remaining prize balls, which are obtained by subtracting the predetermined number from the prize balls generated during the big hit game, for a while after the big hit game ends. Can be set to be executed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, a prescribed number of 10 game balls can be entered into the grand prize opening 33a in one round during the big hit game, and one game ball into the big prize opening 33a. 15 prize balls are paid out. For this reason, in the present embodiment, the number of winning balls that can be acquired in the 16 round jackpot game is “2400” (= the prescribed number 10 × 15 winning balls × 16 rounds). In this embodiment, the “predetermined number” that triggers switching of the payout speed is set to “1500”. In other words, after starting the big hit game, until the number of game balls paid out reaches “1500”, the game balls are paid out at “normal speed (900 pieces / min)”, and the number of game balls paid out reaches “1500” After that, the remaining “900 pieces” are paid out at a “special speed (60 pieces / minute)”.

  Here, the time required to pay out “900” game balls at a special speed (60 pieces / minute) is “900 seconds (15 minutes)”. Also, assuming that the average opening time of the big prize opening 33a in one round game is 25 seconds and the interval time is 2 seconds, the execution period of the big hit game (16 rounds) is about “430 seconds” (= 25 seconds × 16 + 2) Seconds × 15). For this reason, the payout of the prize ball generated during the big hit game is surely performed even after the big hit game ends.

  In the present embodiment, the trigger for switching the payout speed of the game ball during the big hit game (a specific stage during the big hit game) is “the number of game ball payouts (number of prize balls) after the start of the big hit game is a predetermined number (1500)” However, the “specific stage during the jackpot game” is not limited to this. For example, the specific stage in the big hit game is “when the elapsed time from the start of the big hit game reaches a predetermined time (for example,“ 300 seconds (5 minutes) ”shorter than the time required to end the big hit game”) , “When the number of executed rounds in the jackpot game reaches a predetermined number of rounds (for example,“ 16 rounds ”) before the end of the jackpot game (for example,“ 10 rounds ”). Or “when the number of remaining rounds of the jackpot game becomes a predetermined number of rounds (for example, any number of rounds from“ 1 to 5 rounds ”).

  In this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, the game shifts to an open extended game (electric support state) in which the open time extended function is activated with a probability of 100%. For this reason, the payout of the prize ball generated during the big hit game is continuously performed at a special speed even during the open extended game. The game ball payout by the game ball payout device 300 is performed at a special speed until the open extended game ends (the operation of the open time extension function ends). For this reason, during the open extended game, the payout of the winning ball according to the game ball entering the first starting port 28a and the second starting port 28b, the left winning port 34, 35 and the right winning port 36, 37 is also at a special speed. Will be done. Then, as a result of the special symbol success / failure determination performed during the open extension game, “big hit” is obtained, and when the big hit game is started accordingly, the payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is changed from “special speed” to “ It is switched to “normal speed”. In addition, even when the extended extended game is finished without shifting to the normal game without obtaining a “big hit” as a result of the special symbol success / failure determination performed during the extended extended game (without starting the big hit game) The payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is switched from “special speed” to “normal speed”.

  Control (payout control) related to payout of game balls by the game ball payout device 300 is performed by the payout control unit 230. The payout control unit 230 instructs the main control unit 200 to pay out a predetermined number of winning balls based on a prize ball paying-out request signal for instructing paying out a predetermined number of winning balls or an operation of the lending button 5e (see FIG. 1). When the ball rental request signal is received, drive pulse output corresponding to the number of payout requests specified based on the received payout request signal is started, whereby the payout motor 304 starts operating, and the game ball A payout operation is performed.

  Further, the payout control unit 230 counts the number of prize balls paid out during the big hit game based on the sensor signal (detection signal) of the payout sensor 303, and the number of prize balls reaches the “predetermined number (1500)”. When it is determined that the game ball is paid out, the payout speed of the game ball payout device 300 is switched from “normal speed” to “special speed”. The payout control unit 230 receives the game state designation command indicating the operation state of the release time extension function from the main control unit 200, and determines that the release time extension function has ended, the game ball payout device 300 Change the payout speed from special speed to normal speed. For this reason, the payout control unit 230 corresponds to “determination means” and “payout control means” of the present invention.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the electronic control unit includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 constitutes a jackpot lottery unit that performs the jackpot lottery (special symbol success / failure determination) based on the hit / fail judgment program stored in the ROM, with the CPU 200b as a main body. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. On the board input relay board 201, the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s, the first start entrance entrance detection switch 28s, the second start entrance entrance detection switch 28t, the big entrance entrance entrance detection switch 33s, and the entrance entrance entrance detection. Switches 34 s to 37 s are connected, and these signals are configured to be input to the main control unit 200. The board output relay board 202 is connected to a normal symbol display section 51 (one LED), a special symbol display section 61 (seven LEDs), a start opening solenoid 28c, and a big prize opening solenoid 33c. A control signal from the unit 200 is output.

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. Further, the payout control unit 230 is connected to a payout sensor 303 and a payout motor 304 that constitute the game ball payout device 300 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) via a payout device relay terminal plate 231. The payout control unit 230 receives a sensor signal from the payout sensor 303 and outputs a signal for controlling the rotation of the payout motor 304.

  The main control unit 200 instructs the payout control unit 230 to execute the award ball payout, and a prize ball number designation command (prize ball payout request signal) for designating the number of prize balls to be paid out. Commands such as a start permission signal and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball number designation command (prize ball payout request signal) from the main control unit 200, the payout motor 304 of the game ball payout device 300 is based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. Is rotated to perform payout (prize ball payout) of the designated number of game balls.

  A touch switch 8a and a firing stop switch 8b are connected to the firing control unit 250. When the player touches the firing handle 8, a touch signal is input from the touch switch 8a, and the player operates the firing stop switch 8b. By doing (pressing), a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 8b.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 (CPU 260b) is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like. .

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various control commands related to the progress of the game (special symbol variation start command, symbol stop command, jackpot game start designation command, jackpot game end designation command, round designation command, return Command), various lamp control commands, and various voice control commands are transmitted, and the sub-control unit 260 is configured to control production control as the game progresses. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. Further, the effect display control board 280a is provided with an image ROM (not shown). The image ROM displays image data of effects symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described symbol variation effects). ) Are stored. The effect display control unit 280 (CPU 280b) is configured to perform drive control of the effect display device 25 (display output processing of symbol data and image data for various effects).

  In addition, various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative driving board 261, and the speaker 10a that outputs various sounds, sounds, and the like to the amplifier board 263 in accordance with the progress of the game. 10d are connected. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 selects / selects lighting / flashing patterns of various LEDs / lamps based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a variation pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, an execution process of an effect display on the effect display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 7 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 7 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process (S100), the game start process (S200), the normal symbol game process (S300), the ordinary electric game game process (S400), the special symbol game process (S500), and the jackpot game process (S600) Each process is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset (in this embodiment, every 4 ms). When the power interruption occurs (S50), when the power interruption occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and the power is turned on when the system reset occurs (S100). ).

  The power-on process (S100) is performed when the power is turned on and when power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored when the power is turned off. The return setting etc. for making it do is performed.

  Next, the game start process (S200) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, all the switches other than the RAM clear switch connected to the main control unit 200 are read (S201), the respective switch states are determined, and the detection information is stored (S202).

  Next, various random numbers such as a random number for determination of success / failure and a random number for symbol display are updated (S203). Specifically, the value of the random number counter set in the above-described RAM is incremented by 1 between an initial value (for example, 0) and a predetermined value (for example, 255). When the value of the random number counter exceeds a predetermined value, the initial value is restored.

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is a winning (S204). In the determination process of S204, whether or not a game ball has entered the winning openings 28a, 28b, 33a, 34-37 by the respective ball detection switches 28s, 28t, 33s, 34s-37s described with reference to FIG. Determine whether or not. As a result, when it is determined that there is a winning (S204: YES), the winning detection information is stored in the RAM (S205). On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no winning (S204: NO), the process proceeds to S206 as it is.

  Next, it is determined whether there is prize ball detection information stored in the RAM (S206). As a result, when it is determined that there is no prize ball detection information (S206: NO), the game start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is prize ball detection information (S206: YES), a prize ball number designation command (prize ball payout request signal) for designating the number of prize balls is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 (S207). .

  Next, it is determined whether or not the winning ball detection information is due to winning a prize winning opening 33a (S208). As a result, when it is determined that the prize is not awarded to the special winning opening 33a (S208: NO), the game start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the prize is awarded to the big prize opening 33a (S208: YES), a hall ball payout schedule signal indicating that a prize ball is paid out based on the prize winning to the big prize opening 33a is sent to the hall computer. Are externally output (S209). Thereby, the hall computer can grasp that the winning ball to be paid out is based on winning in the big winning opening 33a. As a result, even if the payout of the winning ball based on the game ball entering the big winning port 33a during the big hit game is performed at a low speed after the big hit game ends, the hall computer is based on these winning balls (other than the big hit game) It is possible to accurately grasp that the winning ball is based on winning in the big winning opening 33a without being treated as the number of winning balls to be paid out based on winning in the game.

  Returning to FIG. 7, in the normal symbol game process (S300), first, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is correct, and the normal symbol is displayed in the normal symbol display mode in the normal symbol display section 51 (see FIG. 2). Or whether to stop and display in the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Here, the determination of whether or not the normal symbol is correct in this embodiment has different probabilities of winning depending on the operating state of the opening time extension function (and the fluctuation time reduction function) that extends the opening time of the second start port 28b. Therefore, the probability that the winning time is higher when the open time extending function (and the variable time shortening function) is activated than when the open time extending function (and the variable time shortening function) is not operated.

  Next, when the result of determining whether or not the normal symbol is correct is obtained, the normal symbol fluctuation display time is set, and the normal symbol fluctuation display is started in accordance with the fluctuation display time. When the variable display time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the display mode according to the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the normal electric accessory is displayed. Is started (the second start port 28b is opened). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is activated. I do. When the second start port 28b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process (S400), it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 28b is determined. It is determined whether or not a predetermined number of winnings has been won. When it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b in the open state, or when it is determined that the opening time of the second starting port 28b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece is closed, and the second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process (S500) will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 9A, it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) is made at the starting port 28 (first starting port 28a or second starting port 28b) (S501). If it is determined that the player has not won 28 (S501: NO). The process proceeds to S504. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start port 28 has been won (S501: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S502: NO), the process proceeds to S504, where it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4. In this case (S502: YES), a special symbol random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S503). Thereby, the number of special symbol reservation increases by one. The special symbol random number includes a special symbol success / failure determination random number, a symbol determination random number, a reach random number, and the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504). As a result, if it is determined that the game is a hit game (the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated, and the jackpot game is not played (the jackpot game flag is OFF). ) (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is not zero (S507: NO), special symbol variation display related processing is performed (S508).

  Here, the special symbol variation display related processing (S508) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S508a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination is performed (S508b).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination performed in S508b is a big hit (S508c). As a result, if it is determined that the result of the special symbol win / fail determination is a big hit (S508c: YES), a special symbol fluctuation pattern table is set by the big hit hour fluctuation pattern table distribution process (S508d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol winning / failing determination is not a big hit (out of the game) (S508c: NO), the variation pattern table of the special symbol is set by the variation pattern table distribution process at the time of removal (S508g). .

  Next, the random number for determining the variation pattern is acquired, and the random number for determining symbols stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (obtained when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b). The special symbol determination random number is read out (S508h).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508i). As a special symbol variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table set in the processing of either S508d or S508g using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S508h. Further, the special symbol stop symbol is determined by using the symbol determining random number read in S508h, and the special symbol stop symbol type (LED display pattern in the special symbol display unit 61).

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in S508i, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508j), and accompanying this, the variation of the special symbol as a command variation start command The pattern designation command and stop information designation command are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508k). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol set in S508i, and the special symbol information designation command is a command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol. When this variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect) is controlled under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands (design variation start command). Symbol variation display) is started. Then, 1 is subtracted from the number of reserved special symbols (S508l). The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, if it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S509). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S509: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S509: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S510), and a special symbol variation command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S511). A stop display time is set (S512).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S513: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S513: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a big hit symbol (S514 in FIG. 9B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S514: YES), the opening pattern of the big winning opening 33a is set (S515), and the big hit game flag is set to ON (S515). S516). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S515. Then, a jackpot game start designation command indicating that the jackpot game is started is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 and the sub-control unit 260 (S517). When the payout control unit 230 receives the jackpot game start designation command, the payout control unit 230 recognizes that the jackpot game is started and the gaming state is in the jackpot game. In addition, when receiving the jackpot game start designation command, the sub-control unit 260 executes a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) using the effect display device 25 or the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S518). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S518: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S519). Transition to processing. On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S518: NO), the process proceeds to S520 as it is.

  In the process of S520, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S520: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S521), and further the release extension flag is set to OFF (S522). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  Next, in the determination process of S514, when it is determined that the special symbol stopped symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is not a big hit symbol (in other words, it is a miss symbol) (S514: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S523). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S523: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S523: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S524), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S525). The fluctuation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function, and is set in the process of S617 (see FIG. 11) described later according to the type of jackpot after the jackpot game ends. The

  When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S525: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S525: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S526), and the open extension flag is turned off (S527). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating that the operation of the opening time extension function has ended is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 and the sub control unit 260 (S528). When the payout control unit 230 receives the gaming state designation command transmitted in S528, the payout control unit 230 recognizes that the gaming state has shifted from the open extended game (electric support state) to the normal game (non-electric support state). In addition, when receiving the game state designation command transmitted in the process of S528, the sub-control unit 260 executes a game effect (background display, sound output, lamp light emission, etc.) corresponding to the normal game.

  Next, the jackpot game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). Is determined (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, if it is determined that the big prize opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), whether or not the opening time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed, in other words, the opening time is the specified opening time (this In the embodiment, it is determined whether or not 30 seconds) has been reached (S603), and if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S603: NO), the special winning opening 33a is defined. It is determined whether or not the winning number has been won (whether or not a specified number of game balls have been entered) (S604). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not ten game balls have entered the special winning opening 33a as the prescribed number of winnings.

  As a result of the process of S604, if it is determined that the specified number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and the predetermined winning number is won in the large winning opening 33a. If it is determined (S604: YES) or if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (the specified time has been reached) (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a Is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). The determination process of S606 determines whether the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 16 rounds.

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game ending condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S607), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  When it is determined in S606 that the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S609). As a result, the big hit game ends. Then, a jackpot game end designation command indicating the end of the jackpot game is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 and the sub-control unit 260 (S610). When the payout control unit 230 receives the jackpot game end designation command, it recognizes that the jackpot game has ended. In addition, when receiving the jackpot game end designation command, the sub-control unit 260 executes the jackpot game end effect (ending effect) using the effect display device 25 or the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the type of jackpot symbol that has caused the start of the terminated jackpot game is a probability variation jackpot symbol (S611).

  As a result, when it is determined that the type of jackpot symbol is “probability variation jackpot symbol” (S611: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S612). As a result, the probability variation function starts to operate. On the other hand, if it is determined that the type of jackpot symbol is not “probable variation jackpot symbol” (“normally jackpot symbol”) (S611: NO), the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S612), The process proceeds to S613. Then, the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S613), the release extension flag is set to ON (S614), and values for determining the operation period of the fluctuation time reduction function and the release time extension function in the release extension number counter (initial value) Value) is set (S615). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are activated. In this embodiment, when the type of jackpot symbol that triggered the end of the jackpot game is a probability variation jackpot symbol (S611: YES), “10,000” is set to the open extension counter. In the case of a normal jackpot symbol (S611: NO), "100" is set in the open extension number counter. As a result, the probability variation function is activated after the end of the jackpot game triggered by the stop display of the probability variation jackpot symbol, and the variation time reduction function and release until the number of variations of the special symbol reaches “10,000 times”. The time extension function is activated. That is, all of the probability variation function, variation time shortening function, and opening time extension function are operated until the next big hit game is started. In addition, the probability variation function does not operate after the end of the jackpot game, which is usually triggered by the stop display of the jackpot symbol, and the variation time shortening function and the open time extension function are set to “100 times”. Operates until it reaches.

  Then, a gaming state designation command corresponding to the setting state of the probability variation flag, the variation shortening flag, and the release extension flag is transmitted to the payout control unit 230 (S616). The game state designation command transmitted in the process of S616 indicates the game state after the big hit game is finished. In this embodiment, all of the probability variation function, variation time shortening function and release time extension function are activated. Either a command designating “probable change game” or a command designating “time-short game” in which the probability variation function is not activated and the variation time reduction function and the open time extension function are activated is transmitted. In other words, any game state designation command transmitted in the process of S616 is a command indicating that an extended extended game (electric support state) has started. Therefore, when the payout control unit 230 receives the game state designation command transmitted in the process of S616, the payout control unit 230 recognizes that the game state is changed from the big hit game to the open extended game (electric support state) and is in the open extended game. To do. Further, when the sub-control unit 260 receives the game state designation command transmitted in the process of S616, a game effect (background display, audio output, lamp light emission, etc.) corresponding to a probability change game or a short-time game (both open extended games) ).

  Next, prize ball payout processing executed by the payout control unit 230 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is an example of a prize ball payout process performed under the control of the payout control unit 230, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). 12 is executed by the CPU 230b mounted on the payout control board 230a in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 230b or a ROM mounted on the payout control board 230a).

  First, it is determined whether there is a prize ball payout request (whether the number of payout requests> 0) (S700). In the determination process of S700, the prize ball number designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 in the process of S207 (FIG. 8) is received, and the payout of the prize ball number designated by the prize ball number designation command is completed. If not, it is determined that there is a prize ball payout request (the number of payout requests exceeds “0”).

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no prize ball payout request (the number of payout requests = 0) (S700: NO), the prize ball payout process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a prize ball payout request (the number of payout requests> 0) (S700: YES), it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is a big hit game (S701). In the determination process of S701, the jackpot game start designation command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S517 (FIG. 9B) is received, and the main control unit 200 transmits in the process of S610 (FIG. 11). When the jackpot game end designation command has not been received, it is determined that the jackpot game is being played.

  As a result, if it is determined that the game is a big hit game (S701: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of prize balls paid out during the big hit game counted in the process of S706 described below is less than “1500”. (S702). The number of prize balls paid out during the big hit game is counted in the process of S706 described later. As a result, when it is determined that the number of prize balls paid out is less than “1500” (S702: YES), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to the normal speed (900 pieces / minute). (S703). On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of prize balls paid out has reached “1500” (S702: NO), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to a special speed (60 pieces / minute) ( S704).

  Next, the payout motor 304 is driven at the payout speed set in the processing of S703 or S704, and the game ball payout device 300 executes the prize ball payout (S705). Based on the game ball detection signal from the payout sensor 303, the number of prize balls (the number of prize balls paid out) paid out in response to the game ball entering the big prize opening 33a during the big hit game is counted ( S706). The count value of the number of prize balls paid out is reset to “at the start of jackpot game”, “at the end of jackpot game”, “at the completion of prize ball payout based on game ball entry to the jackpot 33a during the jackpot game”, etc. Is done.

  If it is determined in the determination process of S701 that the game is not a big hit game (S701: NO), it is determined whether or not the game is an open extended game in which the open time extending function is operating (S707). The determination as to whether or not the game is an extended game can be made based on the game state designation command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S528 (FIG. 9B) or the process of S616 (FIG. 11). .

  As a result, if it is determined that the game is an open extended game (S707: YES), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to a special speed (60 pieces / minute) (S708). As a result, the game balls are paid out at a special speed (60 pieces / minute) even during the open extended game after the end of the big hit game. On the other hand, when it is determined that the game is not in the open extended game (S707: NO), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to the normal speed (900 pieces / minute) (S709). Thereby, after the open extended game is completed (after transition to the normal game), the game balls are paid out at the normal speed (900 pieces / minute). Then, the payout motor 304 is driven at the payout speed set in the processing of S708 or S709, and prize ball payout by the game ball payout device 300 is executed (S710).

  Here, the correspondence relationship between the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 9 to 12 and each means of the present invention will be described. The processing in S516 (FIG. 9A), S601 to S608 (FIG. 11). "Corresponds to" big hit game execution means "," process of S614 (FIG. 11) "corresponds to" open extended game execution means "," process of S702 (FIG. 12) "corresponds to" determination means " "S700 to S710 (FIG. 12)" corresponds to "payout control means".

  In the present embodiment described above, until the number of prize balls paid out during the jackpot game reaches a predetermined number (1500), the prize balls are paid out at a normal speed (900 pieces / minute), and the prize ball during the jackpot game is played. After the number of payouts reaches a predetermined number, the prize balls are paid out at a low special speed (60 pieces / minute). Thereby, it is possible to realize a heterogeneous game property that the payout of the winning ball by the game ball entering the big winning port 33a during the big hit game is surely performed even after the big hit game ends. As a result, the game ball is in the open extension game (electric support state) because the game ball is difficult to pass through the normal symbol operation gate 27 or the game ball is poorly moved to the second start port 28b. Nevertheless, even if the efficiency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 28b is poor, the payout of the winning ball triggered by the big hit game is continuously performed during the open extended game, so during the open extended game It is possible to make it difficult to give the player the impression that “ball loss” has occurred.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game ball payout speed at the low special speed is continuously performed even during the open extension game after the end of the big hit game. For this reason, during the open extension game, the winning ball for the starting ball 28 including the second starting port 28b, the left winning holes 34, 35 and the right winning holes 36, 37 are also paid out at a special speed. Become. As a result, even after the payout of the prize ball by the game ball entering the big prize opening 33a during the big hit game is completed, the payout of the prize ball generated during the open extension game is performed at a low speed. It is possible to make it difficult to give the player an impression that “ball loss” has occurred.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the big hit game is started during the open extension game, the award ball is paid out at the normal speed. Then, after the number of prize balls paid out during the big hit game reaches a predetermined number, the prize balls are paid out at a low special speed. As a result, when the big hit game is started during the open extended game, the winning ball can be quickly paid out for the time being from the start of the big hit game.

  Also, in this embodiment, if the big game is not started during the extended extended game and the extended extended game is finished and the game is shifted to the normal game (when the extended open time function is finished), the transition is made. The award balls are later paid out at a normal speed. As a result, during the open extended game, it is difficult to give the player the impression of “ball reduction”, and after the open extended game is completed, the prize balls can be quickly paid out.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  The game ball payout device 300 according to the second embodiment can switch the payout speed into two stages of “first payout speed” and “second payout speed” lower than the first payout speed. . While the big hit game is being executed, the game ball is paid out at the first payout speed, and when the big hit game is not being executed (in the extended extended game or during the normal game), the game ball is paid out at the second payout speed. .

  The first payout speed is set as a payout speed at which the payout completion time of the number of winning balls (2400) to be paid out in one big hit game is always “after the big hit game is finished (after the end of the ending effect)”. In other words, the first payout speed may be set so that the unpaid portion of the winning ball due to the big hit game is surely generated at the end of the big hit game. Also set it to be done reliably.

  The number of prize balls to be paid out after the jackpot game is out of the winning balls during the jackpot game is more than a predetermined percentage of the number of prize balls to be paid out in one jackpot game, in other words, the maximum continuous round of jackpot game It is possible to obtain a prize ball that can be obtained by a predetermined number (for example, 5 rounds) or more in the number (for example, 16 rounds). For example, if the number of prize balls to be paid out in one big hit game is “2400” (= the prescribed number 10 × the number of prize balls 15 × 16 rounds), the prize ball for five rounds is “900” The prize ball of “” may be paid out after the big hit game ends.

  Specifically, in this embodiment, the first payout speed is set to “500 to 800 per minute (8 to 13 per second)”, and the second payout speed is set to “60 per minute (1 1 per second) ”.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the winning ball payout process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 of the first embodiment.

  First, it is determined whether or not there is a prize ball payout request (S700). In the determination process of S700, the prize ball number designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 in the process of S207 (FIG. 8) is received, and the payout of the prize ball number designated by the prize ball number designation command is completed. If not, it is determined that there is a prize ball payout request.

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no prize ball payout request (S700: NO), the prize ball payout process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a prize ball payout request (S700: YES), it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is a big hit game (S701). In the determination process of S701, the jackpot game start designation command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S517 (FIG. 9B) is received, and the main control unit 200 transmits in the process of S610 (FIG. 11). When the jackpot game end designation command has not been received, it is determined that the jackpot game is being played.

  As a result, when it is determined that the game is a big hit game (S701: YES), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to “first payout speed (500 to 800 pieces / min)”. (S703A). On the other hand, if it is determined that the game is not a big hit game (S701: NO), the game ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is set to "second payout speed (60 pieces / min)" (S704A). Then, the payout motor 304 is driven at the payout speed set in the processing of S703A or S704A, and the winning ball payout by the game ball payout device 300 is executed (S705).

  In the embodiment described above, the winning ball payout speed during the big hit game is “first payout speed (500 to 800 pieces / min)”, and the winning ball payout speed during the open extended game after the big hit game is ended is Since the low-speed “second payout speed (60 pieces / min)”, the payout of the winning ball generated during the big hit game is continuously performed after the big hit game ends, and the payout after the big hit game ends is low. Done. Thereby, it is possible to realize a heterogeneous game property in which the payout of the winning ball by the game ball entering the big winning port 33a during the big hit game is surely performed even in the open extended game after the big hit game ends. As a result, it is difficult to pass the game ball through the normal symbol actuating gate 27, or the game ball is poorly moved to the second starting port 28b. However, even if the efficiency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 28b is poor, the payout of the prize ball generated during the big hit game is continued for a while after the big hit game ends. It is possible to make it difficult to give the player the impression that “ball loss” has occurred during an open extended game.

  Further, in this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, the prize balls are paid out at the second payout speed regardless of the operating state of the opening time extension function. For this reason, the prize ball payout is performed at the second payout speed not only during the extended extended game but also during the normal game. Therefore, even if the game is changed from the open extended game to the normal game, the prize ball payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is increased. There is no need to change. As a result, the winning ball is paid out at the “first payout speed” during the big hit game, and the winning ball is paid out at the “second payout speed” when the big hit game is not being executed (open extended game or normal game). With a simple control, it is possible to realize a configuration that makes it difficult to give the player the impression that “ball loss” has occurred during an open extended game.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the payout control unit 230 performs the payout control process. However, the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 may cooperate to perform the payout control process. Good. In this case, in the case of the prize ball payout process of the first embodiment (see FIG. 12), the prize ball payout number counted by the payout control section 230 is transmitted to the main control section 200, and the main control section 200 receives the prize ball. The payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is determined based on the number of payouts and the operating state of the open time extension function, and a command for instructing setting of the determined payout speed is transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230. Thus, the payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 can be set. After that, the main control unit 200 may transmit a command (prize ball number designation command) instructing the payout control unit 230 to give out a prize ball. Further, in the prize ball payout process of the second embodiment (see FIG. 13), the payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 is determined based on whether or not the main control unit 200 is in the big hit game, By sending a command instructing setting of the determined payout speed from the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, the payout speed by the game ball payout device 300 can be set. After that, the main control unit 200 may transmit a command (prize ball number designation command) instructing the payout control unit 230 to give out a prize ball.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the example in which the present invention is applied to a gaming machine in which the opening time extension function operates with a probability of 100% after the end of the big hit game has been described. The present invention is also applicable to a gaming machine provided with a “big hit game without open extension” in which the function does not operate.

  For example, in the configuration of the first embodiment, during the execution of the “big hit game without opening extension”, the winning ball payout process (S700) of FIG. 12 is not executed, and the normal game after the big hit game and after the big hit game ends. In the game, the normal speed may be maintained as the payout speed by the game ball payout device 300. As a result, it is possible to quickly pay out the winning ball that is generated during the execution of the “hit game without opening extension”, and the payout of the award ball that occurs during the execution of the “hit game without opening extension” In the “non-power support state” after the end, it can be prevented from being continued unnecessarily.

  Further, with the configuration of the second embodiment, during the execution of the “big hit game without opening extension”, the prize ball payout process (S700) of FIG. The prize balls can be paid out at a “third payout speed (for example, 900 pieces / minute)” that is faster than the “first payout speed (for example, 500 to 800 pieces / minute)”. As a result, it is possible to quickly pay out the winning ball that was generated during the execution of the “big hit game without opening extension”, and the payout of the prize ball that was generated during the execution of the “hit game without opening extension” In the “non-power support state” after the end, it can be prevented from being continued unnecessarily.

  In addition, when the winning ball payout speed is set to “third payout speed (for example, 900 pieces / min)” in accordance with the execution of the “big hit game without opening extension”, The winning ball payout speed may be changed from the “third payout speed” to another payout speed (“first payout speed” or “second payout speed”).

  Alternatively, the number of winning balls due to the game balls entering the start port 28 is small (3 to 4), and the frequency of game balls entering the start port 28 during normal games is lower than during open extended games. Therefore, even if the prize ball payout speed is changed with the completion of the “big hit game without opening extension”, the change has almost no influence on the game. Therefore, if the winning ball payout speed is set to “third payout speed (for example, 900 pieces / minute)” in accordance with the execution of “big hit game without extension for extension”, the payout speed is set to “big hit game without extension for extension”. You may make it maintain after completion | finish. Then, when the “big hit game with open extension” is started next, the prize ball payout speed may be changed from the “third payout speed” to the “first payout speed”.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 20 ... Game board, 27 ... Normal symbol operation gate (pass gate), 28b ... 2nd starting port (variable starting port), 33a ... Grand prize opening, 200 ... Main control part (Big hit game execution means, (Open extension game execution means), 230 ... payout control unit (determination means, payout control means), 300 ... game ball payout device (payout device).

Claims (4)

A passing gate through which game balls can pass,
A variable start port that can be in an open state in which the possibility of entering the game ball is increased when the game ball passes through the passing gate;
Lottery means for performing a big hit lottery based on a game ball entering the variable start port;
It is possible to change between a state in which a game ball can be entered and a state in which a game ball can be entered.
A payout device for paying out a prize ball when a game ball enters at least the variable start opening and when a game ball enters the big prize opening;
When winning the jackpot lottery, the jackpot game execution means for performing the jackpot game that allows the game ball to enter the jackpot until a predetermined jackpot execution period elapses;
An open extended game execution means for performing an open extended game for extending the open time in which the variable start port is in the open state after the jackpot game ends, until a predetermined open extended execution period elapses;
A gaming machine equipped with
Determining means for determining whether or not the progress status of the jackpot game has reached a specific stage before the jackpot execution period has elapsed;
Until it is determined that the determination means has reached the specific stage, the award balls are paid out at a normal speed based on the game balls entering the large winning opening, and the determination means has reached the specific stage. After the determination, the payout control means for controlling the payout device so as to perform the payout of the winning ball based on the entry of the game ball to the big winning opening at a special speed slower than the normal speed,
The payout control means is configured to perform payout of a winning ball at the special speed based on the entering of a game ball into the big winning opening during the big hit game also in the open extended game after the big hit game is finished. And controlling the payout device.   The payout control means controls the payout device so as to pay out a prize ball at the special speed based on a game ball entering the variable start port during the open extended game. Item 1. A gaming machine according to Item 1.   When the big hit lottery is won and the big hit game is started during the extended extended game, the payout control means plays the game to the big prize opening until the judging means judges that the specific stage has been reached. The payout of the winning ball based on the entering of the ball is performed at the normal speed, and after the determination means determines that the specific stage has been reached, the payout of the winning ball based on the entering of the game ball into the big winning opening The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the payout device is controlled to perform the game at the special speed.   When the opening extension game is over due to the elapse of the opening extension execution period without winning the jackpot lottery during the opening extension game, the payout control means returns to the variable start port after the opening extension game ends. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the payout device is controlled so that award balls are paid out at the normal speed based on an incoming game ball. 5.

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