JP5741622B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  The gaming machine is provided with a launching device for launching a game ball on the game board. The launching device is configured such that a game ball is fired at a launch intensity corresponding to the amount of operation of the launch handle, and the player operates the launch handle to move the game ball toward a predetermined location on the game board. Adjust firing strength to fire. In such a gaming machine, it has been proposed to display a game ball passing rate in a specific area within the gaming area (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-263270 A

  However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, only the game ball passing rate to a specific area at the current launch intensity of the launcher is simply displayed, and it is difficult to determine which launch intensity is appropriate. .

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of recognizing appropriate launch intensity by a launcher.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides:
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area;
Firing intensity changing means capable of changing the firing intensity of the game ball by the launching means;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball launched into the game area;
When a game ball is fired at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time, the detection degree of the detection means at the predetermined launch intensity is acquired based on the detection result of the detection means, and the detection degree for each launch intensity. Storage means capable of storing
Measuring means for measuring the predetermined time;
Informing means for informing the plurality of detection degrees stored in the storage means in association with the launch intensity;
With
As the detection means, a first detection means and a second detection means are provided,
The notifying means varies depending on the gaming state whether the detecting means of the first detecting means or the second detecting means is to be notified,
The game area can be changed to a first start port through which game balls can enter, a first mode in which game balls can be entered, and a second mode in which game balls can be entered. A second starting port is provided,
The frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is changed from the normal normal frequency state to the high frequency state in which the frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is higher than the normal frequency state. A starting port mode control means for causing
The first detection means detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening, and the second detection means detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening. And
The notification means notifies the detection degree of the first detection means in the normal frequency state, and notifies the detection degree of the second detection means in the high frequency state.
It is characterized by having.
In addition, related inventions related to the present invention are:
Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area;
Firing intensity changing means capable of changing the firing intensity of the game ball by the launching means;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball launched into the game area;
When a game ball is fired at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time, the detection degree of the detection means at the predetermined launch intensity is acquired based on the detection result of the detection means, and the detection degree for each launch intensity. Storage means capable of storing
Measuring means for measuring the predetermined time;
Informing means for informing the plurality of detection degrees stored in the storage means in association with the launch intensity;
It is characterized by having.

  Thereby, the player can recognize the degree of detection of the detection means, that is, the degree of passage through which a game ball passes through a predetermined portion of the game area or the degree of entrance into which the ball enters, for each launch intensity. It is possible to easily recognize whether the ball is optimal for launching a game ball toward a predetermined location, and a game can be performed with an optimal launch intensity.

Here, the detection means is a means for detecting a game ball, and a predetermined detection means (for example, a detection means for detecting a game ball entering the start port) is a detection means of the present invention and related invention . The detection means may be provided on the game area to detect a game ball flowing down the game area, or in the entrance (in the entrance) to detect a game ball that has entered the predetermined entrance. It may be provided in the game ball passage. In addition, the “measurement of a predetermined time” by the measuring means is to measure the time of contact with the launch handle (touch sensor) that adjusts the launch intensity, or continuously (within a predetermined interval) in a predetermined area, Measure the time on the condition of detection, measure the time when the demo screen is not displayed, measure the time when the identification information (design) is changing display, or touch the launch handle to launch And it can measure on condition that the firing stop button is not operated, or it can measure combining a plurality of conditions among these conditions. That is, the time that can be estimated that the player is firing a game ball is measured. Further, the “detection degree” stored in the storage means may be the number of detected game balls in a predetermined time, or may be a detection rate calculated from the number of detections and the number of shots, or the number of detections is replaced with other information. Information may be used, or information obtained by replacing such information with information indicating other degrees.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
The storage means stores the predetermined launch intensity when a game ball is newly launched for a predetermined time at the predetermined launch intensity in a state where the degree of detection of the game ball at the predetermined launch intensity is stored. The degree of detection of the detection means is acquired, and the degree of detection is updated and stored.

  Thereby, the detection degree of the detection means for each firing intensity can always be the latest data, and even when nails are adjusted, etc., data on the detection degree of the game ball at a predetermined location for each firing intensity Can be made highly reliable.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
The notification means changes the notification mode of the detection degree corresponding to the non-updated launch intensity if it is not updated among the detection degrees stored by the storage means even if a predetermined update reference time elapses. It is characterized by.

  In this way, by changing the display mode of the detection degree corresponding to the launch intensity that is not updated even when the update reference time elapses, nail adjustment etc. is performed before the update reference time elapses, and past data is referred to Even in such a case, it is possible to prevent the reliability of the degree of detection of the game ball for each firing strength from being lowered. The update reference time may be set to any time. For example, it can be set to 12 hours (half day), 24 hours (1 day), 168 hours (1 week), or the like.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
As the detection means, a first detection means and a second detection means are provided,
The notifying means is characterized in that which of the detecting means of the first detecting means or the second detecting means is notified according to the gaming state.

  In this way, by notifying the degree of detection of different detection means according to the game state, the player can easily obtain the optimum launch intensity for firing the game ball toward each part of the game area according to the game state. The game can be performed with the optimal launch intensity according to the game state. In particular, when the game area (entrance entrance, etc.) that should be aimed at entering or passing differs depending on the game state (for example, aiming at the first detection means in the normal state and the second in the hit game or the open extended state) It is preferable to change the target of the detection means for displaying the detection degree and notify the detection degree at the emission intensity corresponding to each detection means as the gaming state transitions.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
The game area includes a first start port through which a game ball can enter and a first game game ball with a low possibility of entering the game ball.
And a second start port that can be changed to a second mode in which a game ball is likely to enter,
The frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is changed from the normal normal frequency state to the high frequency state in which the frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is higher than the normal frequency state. A starting port mode control means for causing
The first detection means detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening, and the second detection means detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening. And
The notification means notifies the detection degree of the first detection means in the normal frequency state, and notifies the detection degree of the second detection means in the high frequency state.

  In this way, the detection means for notifying the detection degree is made different according to two gaming states (normal frequency state and high frequency state) in which the possibility of entering the second starting port is different. In other words, by changing the start port for notifying the detection degree of the game ball in the entrance degree notification effect, the player fires the game ball toward the first start port or the second start port according to the gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to easily recognize the optimum firing strength for the game, and to play a game with the optimum firing strength according to the gaming state. Further, since the notification of the notification means is automatically switched in accordance with the change of the game state, the player only has to adjust the firing intensity to a position with a high degree of detection while looking at the notification effect. In other words, even a complex gaming machine in which the firing strength needs to be changed depending on the gaming state, the player is notified of the change in the firing strength, and the player is prevented from receiving a disadvantage.

  According to the above configuration of the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine capable of recognizing appropriate launch strength by the launch device by storing and notifying the degree of detection of the game ball for each launch strength.

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 block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of a pitch degree notification effect. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. 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 start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows processing at the time of big hit game end. It is a flowchart which shows an entrance degree alerting | reporting effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the entrance degree alerting | reporting effect of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the entrance degree alerting | reporting effect of 2nd Example.

(First embodiment)
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below 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 symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. 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 gaming machine 1 includes a game frame 2 and a game board 20. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. The game frame 2 includes an outer frame 3, a middle frame 4, a front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6, a lower plate portion 7, and the like. The middle frame 4 is not shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 5 is disposed on the front side.

  The outer frame 3 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The outer frame 3 is fixed to an installation site provided in the island facility of the pachinko hall and supports the gaming machine main body. The outer frame 3 includes an outer frame main body 3a configured by a substantially rectangular frame-shaped body, and a front plate portion 3b that covers a lower front portion of the outer frame main body 3a.

  The middle frame 4 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 4 is fitted inside the outer frame 3 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 3. The middle frame 4 is composed of 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 5 are provided on the front side of the frame portion so as to overlap each other. On the lower side of the front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6 and a lower plate portion 7 are integrally provided. The lower plate portion is provided with a launching device 12 (see FIG. 3) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeding device (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launching device 12. . The launching device 12 includes a spear (not shown) that launches a game ball onto the game board 20, and a launch motor 12a (see FIG. 3) that rotationally drives the spear. A locking device 5b is provided below the right side of the front frame 5 to lock the front frame 5 when it is closed.

  The front frame 5 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 4 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 5 is made of plastic, and has an opening 5a for making 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 5a is mounted on the back surface of the front frame 5.

  A frame lamp portion 5c using LEDs or the like is provided around the opening 5a in the front frame 5. The frame lamp portion 5c is turned on / off or blinks according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate 6 is provided below the opening 5 a in the front frame 5. The upper plate 6 is provided with a discharge port 6a for discharging game balls to be paid out as prize balls or rental balls. On the upper surface of the upper plate part 6, an effect button 8 is provided at the center and a CR operation part 9 is provided on the right side. The effect button 8 includes a middle button 8a, a left button 8b provided on the left side of the middle button 8a, and a right button 8c provided on the right side of the middle button 8a.

  The CR operation unit 9 is used to operate the prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and includes a return button 9a for requesting the return of the prepaid card and the remaining frequency of the prepaid card. Is displayed, and a ball lending button 9c for requesting lending of game balls is provided.

  The lower plate part 7 is provided below the upper plate part 6 in the front frame 5. A discharge port 7 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 7 is provided at substantially the center of the lower plate portion 7. At the right end of the lower plate part 7, a firing handle 10 is provided for the player to operate the firing device 12. The firing handle 10 is provided with a touch switch 10a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 10, a launch stop switch 10b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed. The firing handle 10 includes a variable resistor 10c (see FIG. 3). The variable resistor 10c changes a resistance value in accordance with the rotation amount (operation amount) of the firing handle 10, and functions as an operation amount detection unit that indicates the operation amount of the firing handle 10 based on the resistance value. .

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 11a to 11d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 11 a to 11 d include upper speakers 11 a and 11 b provided on the upper part of the front frame 5 and lower speakers 11 c and 11 d provided on the front plate part 2 b below the front frame 5.

  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 disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25. 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 V of the effect display device 25. Since the central device 24 is arranged at a substantially central portion of the game area 21, when “left-handed” is performed in which a game ball is launched aiming at the left side of the game area 21, the game ball is left of the central device 24. Can flow down. In addition, the upper side of the central device 24 allows game balls to pass along the outer rail 22, and if a “right hit” is performed in which the game balls are fired aiming at the right side of the game area 21, The sphere can pass above the central device 24 and flow down to the right of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning 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, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. 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. 3) for detecting the passage of the 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 start opening 28 is constituted by two entrance openings formed with game ball receiving openings for receiving game balls flowing down on the surface of the game board 20, and one of the entrance openings is designated as a first start opening. 28a, and the other entrance is the second start port 28b. The first start port 28 a is provided below the central device 24 in the game area 21, and the second start port 28 b is provided on the right side of the central device 24 in the game area 21. That is, the first start port 28 a is provided at the lower center of the game area 21, and the second start port 28 b is provided on the right side of the game area 21. Note that “lower center” and “right side” of the game area 21 indicate positions relative to the center of the game area 21.

  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 starter that 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 in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as.

  Inside the start port 28, there are a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball entering the first start port 28a, and a game ball entering the second start port 28b. A start opening ball detection switch 28t (see FIG. 3) for detection and a start opening solenoid 28c (see FIG. 3) for operating the pair of blade pieces are provided. 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 through). Thus, the second start port 28b is in a closed state (first mode) in which the possibility of entering the game ball becomes small (or the ball cannot enter). On the other hand, 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 larger than usual, and the second start port 28b is likely to enter the game ball. Is in an open state (second mode) in which is increased. When a game ball enters one of the start ports 28a and 28b, a special symbol (to be described later) starts to be displayed in a variable manner.

  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). 3) and a special winning opening entrance detection switch 33s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the entrance of a 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. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs. By combining these LEDs, a normal symbol display unit 51, a general symbol hold display unit 52, a first special symbol hold display unit 53, and a second special symbol are provided. A hold display unit 54 is configured. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a first special symbol display device 61 and a second special symbol display device 62 are configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display device 51 is composed of one LED, and the normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display device 51, normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display device 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a display mode in which the normal symbol is hit or miss after a predetermined time. Design variation game is performed. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a preset hit 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 in operation (normal time), a first opening pattern (short-time opening pattern) in which a first opening time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is set. ) Is set, and when the open time extension function is activated, a second open pattern (long open pattern) in which a second open time (for example, 4 seconds) longer than the first open time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  As described above, since the first start port 28a is provided at the lower center of the game area 21, when the open time extension function is not activated, the game ball is launched toward the left area of the game area 21. ”Allows the game ball to enter the first start port 28a efficiently. In addition, since the second start port 28b is provided at the lower right side of the game area 21, when the open time extension function is activated, a “right hit” is performed to launch a game ball toward the right area of the game area 21. Thus, the game ball can be efficiently entered into the second start opening 28b opened in the second opening pattern.

In this embodiment, a normal symbol success / failure determination value is prepared, and this normal symbol success / failure determination value is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27, and whether or not to activate the second start port 28b. It is used to determine whether or not the symbol is normal (whether to be in an open state). A “hit value” is set in advance for the normal symbol success / failure determination value, and a hit is determined when the acquired normal symbol success / failure determination value matches the winning value. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be winning, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 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 determination value does not match the winning value), the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. The Note that the normal symbol success / failure determination value can be generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a random number counter by software.

  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 made 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. With the holding of the normal symbol, the normal symbol appropriateness determination value is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  It should be noted that 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 storage and storage of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. In this embodiment, two special symbols, a first special symbol and a second special symbol, are provided, and accordingly, a first special symbol display device 61 for displaying the first special symbol and a second special symbol are displayed. A second special symbol display device 62 is provided. In the following description, when “special symbol” is described, the description refers to both “first special symbol” and “second special symbol” unless otherwise specified. In addition, in the following description, when “special symbol reserve number” is described, unless otherwise specified, the description refers to both “first special symbol reserve number” and “second special symbol reserve number”. To do.

  Each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 is composed of seven LEDs, and special LEDs (first special symbol and second special symbol) are respectively displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of display modes can be displayed for each special symbol by a combination of turning on and off of each LED. And in the 1st special symbol display device 61 and the 2nd special symbol display device 62, a specific combination is set as a jackpot symbol among the combinations of the special symbols displayed by the combination of lighting and extinguishing of 7 LEDs respectively. In addition, combinations other than the jackpot symbol are set as outliers. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  When the game ball enters the first start port 28a, the first special symbol starts to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 61. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the first special symbol is either a big hit symbol or a missed symbol. The symbol variation game of the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed is performed. In addition, when the game ball enters the second start port 28b, the second special symbol starts to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 62, and after the predetermined time elapses, the second special symbol is a big hit symbol or an off symbol. The symbol variation game of the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the first special symbol determination value (entrance information) acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a and the game ball enters the second start port 28b. A second special symbol determination value (entrance information) to be acquired is provided. The first special symbol judgment value includes a first special symbol success / failure judgment value used for the first special symbol success / failure judgment as to whether or not to execute the jackpot game, and a jackpot symbol judgment for determining a stop symbol of the first special symbol. And a first reach determination value used for reach determination for determining whether or not to perform reach production. Similarly, for the second special symbol determination value, a second special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not to execute the jackpot game is determined, and a stop symbol of the second special symbol is determined. A second symbol determination value used for jackpot symbol determination and a second reach determination value used for reach determination for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect are included.

  Based on the game ball entering the first starting port 28a, a first special symbol success / failure determination value, a first symbol determination value, and a first reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is a main control. Is stored as a hold (first special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the unit 200. In addition, based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, and a second reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is It is stored as a hold (second special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The special symbol judgment value (special symbol success / failure judgment value, symbol judgment value, reach judgment value) is generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a software random number counter. can do.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The first special symbol hold display unit 53 and the second special symbol hold display unit 54 are each composed of two LEDs, and the number of holds can be set up to 4 each by combining the turn-off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Can be displayed.

  The number of game balls that have entered the first start opening 28a can be held until the maximum number of reserved balls (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of first special symbol held. The first special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is stored in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol determination values (first special symbol success / failure determination value, first symbol determination value, first reach determination value). In the present embodiment, since the first symbol determination value and the first reach determination value are obtained together with the first special symbol determination value based on the game ball entering the first start port 28a, the first special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored first symbol determination values and first reach determination values. The first special symbol hold count is digested and decreased by one each time the first special symbol determination is made and the first special symbol variation display is started.

  The number of game balls that have entered the second start port 28b can be held until reaching the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) as the second special symbol reservation number. The second special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is stored in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol determination values (second special symbol success / failure determination value, second symbol determination value, second reach determination value). In the present embodiment, since the second symbol determination value and the second reach determination value are acquired together with the second special symbol success / failure determination value based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, the second special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored second symbol determination values and second reach determination values. The second special symbol hold count is digested each time the second special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the second special symbol is started, and decreases by one. On-hold storage and on-hold digestion of the first and second special symbols are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  When the special symbol (the first special symbol, the second special symbol) is stopped and displayed, and the symbol variable game is completed, the next symbol variable game can be executed. Then, in a state where the symbol variable game can be executed, the presence of one or more first special symbol hold satisfies the execution condition of the symbol variable game of the first special symbol, and one or more second special symbol hold By being present, the execution condition of the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is established.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to perform a second special symbol priority variation process in which the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is preferentially executed over the symbol variation game of the first special symbol. That is, when both the number of the first special symbol hold and the number of the second special symbol hold are “1 or more”, the second special symbol is preferentially displayed in a variable manner over the first special symbol. The reservation of the symbol is preferentially consumed. When the first special symbol reservation count is “1 or more” and the second special symbol reservation count is “zero”, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed.

  The special symbol success / failure determination value is set with a winning value (big hit value) for determining whether or not the special symbol is obtained, and the special symbol success / failure acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. When the judgment value matches the big hit value, it becomes “big hit”, and when it does not match, it becomes “out”. The first special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the first special symbol starts variable display, and the second special symbol correctness determination is performed when the second special symbol starts variable display.

  If it is determined that the first special symbol is determined to be a big hit, the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit (a specific mode) Determined). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first special symbol is determined to be out, the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is a display pattern (disappearance mode) indicating that the first special symbol is out. Special mode). Similarly, if the second special symbol is determined to be a big hit in the second special symbol success / failure determination, the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 62 is a big win symbol that is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit ( If the second special symbol display device 62 determines that the second special symbol is out of place when the second special symbol is determined to be off in the second special symbol success / failure determination. Are determined to be outliers (non-special aspects).

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect in the variation (effect content). The variation pattern of the special symbol is determined by variation pattern determination using a variation pattern determination value from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol validity determination is executed.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected in accordance with the gaming state (special symbol variation mode). In addition, each variation pattern table selected according to the gaming state is selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit, and when the special symbol success / failure determination result is out of the range. And a deviation variation pattern table. The deviation variation patterns stored in the deviation variation pattern table include a “normal deviation variation pattern (reach variation pattern without reach)” that does not involve reach variation and a “reach variation pattern with reach” that involves reach variation. The normal deviation variation pattern is configured as a variation pattern with a shorter special symbol variation time than the reach deviation variation pattern. The reach variation variation pattern has a special symbol variation time longer than the normal variation variation pattern. It is configured as. The presence or absence of reach variation is determined by reach determination using the reach determination value acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28.

  First special symbol success / failure determination, second special symbol success / failure determination, determination of variation mode (variation pattern) of first special symbol, determination of variation mode (variation pattern) of second special symbol, stop of first special symbol Determination of symbol, determination of stop symbol of second special symbol, change display and stop display of first special symbol, change display and stop display of second special symbol, priority change of second special symbol will be described later. 200.

  Next, the jackpot game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (special aspect) (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), The main control unit 200 starts a big hit game (specific game) that is relatively advantageous to the player. The big hit game is started by setting the big hit game flag to ON, and the big winning device 33 is operated, in other words, the big winning opening 33a is opened and closed a plurality of times, so that the game balls to the big winning opening 33a are opened. It gives a player a profit (prize ball) for entering the ball. The big hit game is realized by repeatedly executing a big hit game process by the main control unit 200 described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out in accordance with the game balls entering the big prize opening 33a. That is, the winning ball is paid out by detecting the passing of the game ball by the big winning port entrance ball detection switch 33s arranged in the big winning port 33a.

  Then, with the start of the big hit game, the big winning device 33 is continuously operated, and the big winning opening / closing operation for switching the big winning port 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined ending condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a reaches a specified time (30 seconds in this embodiment) or the number of game balls that have entered the open big opening 33a is a predetermined number (this implementation) In the example, it is possible to reach 10). When the game in which the big winning opening 33a is opened is “round game”, the number of rounds that can be continued in one big hit game (15 rounds in this embodiment) is set. When the round winning game 33a is closed and the round game is ended, after a predetermined interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment), the big winning port 33a is opened and the next round game is started. .

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are activated to be in an advantageous state (the “non-probable state with electric support” or “the positive change with electric support” described later). Status "etc.) is started. In the advantageous state in which the variable time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability variation function are activated, the symbol variation game can be advanced under conditions that are more advantageous than the normal state in which these functions are not activated. Here, as advantageous states, (a) a state in which all of the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are activated (an electric power support with a certain variation state), (b) the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function Among the probability variation functions, only the probability variation function is activated (the probability variation state without electric support), (c) only the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function among the variation time shortening function, the opening time extending function and the probability varying function. Can be exemplified (a state of electric support and a non-probable change state). 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. Further, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start simultaneously and end simultaneously. 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”. Hereinafter, the state in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are activated is also referred to as a “short time state”. Therefore, the above-mentioned (a) “probability change state with electric support” is “probability change state and short time state”, and (c) “non-probability change state with electric support” is simply “time reduction state”.

  As described above, when the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol, after the jackpot game is finished, the “variable time shortening function” and “opening time extension function” are activated without operating the probability variation function. The “non-probability change state with support” (short-time state) is started. The non-probable change state (time reduction state) with electric support is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. By the activation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds), which is the normal setting time, to the second opening time (for example, 5 seconds). . As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening time extension function is not activated). By the operation of the opening time extension function, about one of the four firing balls can enter the second starting port 28b. Since the number of prize balls at the start port 28 is set to 4, when the open time extension function is activated, it is possible to play a game without reducing the hand-held game balls (held balls).

  The non-probable change state (time reduction state) with electric support is configured to continue until the number of executions of the special symbol change display (or stop display) reaches the predetermined number after the big hit game ends. Set as number of times. The non-probable change state (short-time state) with electric support is configured to continue until the number of executions of the special symbol change display (or stop display) reaches a predetermined number (100 in this embodiment) after the big hit game ends. The predetermined number is set as the number of time reductions.

  In addition, when the special symbol stop symbol is a probable big hit symbol, after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function, the variable time shortening function, and the open time extension function are activated, and the “predictable state with electric support” is started. The A jackpot game started by a probable jackpot game is also referred to as a “probable jackpot game”. The probability variation state with the electric support is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this state, the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit, that is, a special bonus, together with the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function. The probability variation function is activated to increase the probability that the symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol. The probability variation state with the electric support is configured to continue until the next jackpot game is started after the jackpot game ends. That is, both the “probability change state” and the “short time state” continue until the next big hit game is started.

  When the probability variation function is activated (probability variation state), the jackpot value for determining whether or not the special symbol is increased increases the probability that the result of determining whether or not the special symbol is a jackpot. Specifically, as the success / failure determination table in which the jackpot value is set, a low probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the number of jackpot values is set larger than the low probability success / failure determination table are prepared. . When the probability variation function is not in operation, the special symbol success / failure determination is performed using the low probability success / failure determination table, so that the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination value matches the jackpot value is low (in this embodiment, 1/200). When the probability variation function is activated, the special symbol success / failure determination is performed using the high probability success / failure determination table, so that the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination value matches the jackpot value is high (in this embodiment, 1/20). )

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the effect display device 25 generates a symbol variation effect in response to the special symbol variation game performed using the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62. Done. As the symbol variation effect, for example, in accordance with the variation display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display on the second special symbol display device 62, the effect symbol consisting of numerical symbols is displayed in a variable manner. For example, a reach display effect to be performed during a change display of the effect symbol. There are a plurality of types of effect contents (effect patterns) of the symbol variation effect, and display data (image data) for these effects is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Here, the symbol variation effect realized under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 described later will be described. FIG. 3 is a front view of the effect display device 25. As shown in FIG. 2, an effect symbol display unit 25 a for displaying effect symbols is provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. This effect symbol is displayed in conjunction with the change display and stop display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 62. That is, the effect display device 25 functions as a symbol display device in the same manner as the first special symbol display device and the second special symbol display device 62. Further, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, the part excluding the effect symbol display unit 25a is a background display area in which various background images including characters, figures, symbols, characters, and the like are displayed. The effect symbol display unit 25a and the background display area constitute a symbol variation effect screen. As described above, since the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), the player usually displays the content displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25 (particularly the effect symbol). It will play a game paying attention to.

  In the present embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays the left symbol display unit on which the left symbol is displayed and the middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area where the left symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. The effect symbol display unit 25a has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of each symbol display unit, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  The effect symbol starts when the first special symbol or the second special symbol starts the variable display, and when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at any of the symbols, the effect symbol Is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to the stop symbol of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In the effect design, the symbol combination with the same three digits becomes a special mode (success mode) corresponding to the special symbol jackpot symbol, and the other symbol combinations become the non-special mode (out mode) corresponding to the special symbol losing symbol. .

  The determination of the variation pattern (variation pattern) and stop symbol of the effect symbol is configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol 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 randomly determines the variation pattern of the special symbol according to the determination result of the special symbol. 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 25a. The special symbol 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 the special symbol according to the determination result of the special symbol. The stop pattern of is decided at random. Then, based on the special symbol information designation command indicating the special symbol stop symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  Further, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, a hold display effect for displaying the number of special symbols held and a jackpot game effect accompanying the progress of the jackpot game during the jackpot game are performed. The jackpot game effect includes a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) executed at the start of the jackpot game, a round effect executed during the jackpot game, a jackpot game end effect (ending effect) executed at the end of the jackpot game, etc. . These jackpot game effects are executed by the sub-control unit 260 based on commands transmitted from the main control unit 200 as the jackpot game progresses.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electronic control device 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 is configured by a CPU 200b as a main body to determine whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is determined by the determination program stored in the ROM. . 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. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, start-port entrance detection switches 28 s and 28 t, and a grand prize entrance entrance detection switch 33 s, and these signals are input to the main control unit 200. Is configured to do. The board output relay board 202 is connected with a normal symbol display device 51, special symbol display devices 61 and 62, a start port solenoid 28c, and a big prize port solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output. . The main control unit 200 is configured to output the ball detection signals from the start port ball detection switches 28s and 28t to the sub-control unit 260 as they are.

  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. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, 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 instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The launch control unit 250 includes a launch control board 250a. The launch control unit 230 is connected to the touch switch 10a of the launch handle 10, the launch stop switch 10b, and the variable resistor 10c, and further to the launch motor 12a of the launch device 12.

  The launch control unit 250 includes a touch signal indicating that the player is touching the launch handle 10 from the touch switch 10a, a launch stop operation signal indicating that the player has performed a launch stop operation from the launch stop switch 10b, and a variable. A firing operation amount signal indicating the amount of operation of the firing handle 10 by the player is input from the resistor 10c. The firing operation amount signal is a value obtained as the resistance value of the variable resistor 10c that changes the resistance value according to the operation amount of the firing handle 8.

  The launch motor 12a operates a cage (not shown) for driving a game ball sent to a predetermined launch position toward the game area 21, and is operated by the player operating the launch handle 10. To do. The resistance value of the variable resistor 10c is changed by rotating the firing handle 10, and the firing control unit 250 adjusts the voltage applied to the firing motor 12a by PWM control or the like according to the resistance value. As a result, the firing strength of the kite connected to the rotating shaft of the firing motor 12a is adjusted. That is, as the amount of rotation of the launch handle 10 increases, the average current level supplied to the launch motor 12a increases, and the hitting force by the kite, that is, the launch strength of the game ball increases, and the amount of rotation of the launch handle 10 increases. The smaller the value, the weaker the game ball's launch strength. In this way, by adjusting the operation amount (rotation amount) of the launch handle 10, the launch strength of the game ball can be adjusted, and the game ball can be launched aiming at a predetermined location in the game area 21. For this reason, the firing handle 10 constitutes “a firing strength changing means”.

  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 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 11a to 11d, 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 symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, special symbol information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice controls A command is sent. 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. In addition, an image ROM (not shown) is provided on the effect display control board 280a, and the image data of the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described variation effect) is stored in the image ROM. Is stored more than once.

  In addition, various LEDs / lamps 262 and an amplifier board 263 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative drive board 261. Each LED / lamp 262 includes a frame lamp portion 5c. Connected to the amplifier board 263 are speakers 11a to 11d that output various sounds, sounds, and the like in accordance with the progress of the game. Furthermore, the production buttons 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, and the right button 8c) are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the production button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 is based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c) (reception of variation pattern designation command, input of production button operation signal, etc.). Various LED / lamp lighting / flashing pattern selection / execution processing, sound effect data selection / output processing output from the speakers 11a to 11d, and design variation effect execution pattern (effect pattern) on the effect display device 25 ) Selection processing, symbol variation production execution processing based on the execution pattern, and the like.

  In the present embodiment, a ball that reports the degree of ball entry (the degree of ball entry) into the starting port 28 when the ball is launched at a predetermined launch intensity before the game ball launch time reaches a predetermined time. The degree notification effect is configured to be executed. In the entrance degree notification effect, the entrance degree to a specific entrance is notified for each launch intensity of the game ball by the launch device 12. In the entry degree notification effect of the present embodiment, the degree of entry to the start port 28 (first start port 28a, second start port 28b) is notified. The pitching degree notification effect may be performed at all times, or may be performed only in a gaming state (a normal gaming state in which no big hit game is performed) that may cause a gaming ball to enter the starting port 28.

  FIG. 4 is a display example of the pitching degree notification effect. In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents the launch intensity, and the vertical axis represents the entry degree, so that the entry degree for each launch intensity can be displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the higher the height of the graph is, the larger the degree of entrance is.

  In the entering degree notification effect of the present embodiment, the entering degree to the first starting port 28a and the entering degree to the second starting port 28b are notified at the same time. In addition, the entry degree notification effect can be performed using an entry degree display unit provided in a part of the display area V of the effect display device 25. Alternatively, a dedicated display device for performing a degree-of-entrance notification effect may be provided, and the degree-of-entry notification effect may be performed using a degree-of-entry display portion provided in this dedicated display device.

  In this embodiment, the launch intensity of the game ball by the launching device 12 is set to 20 levels from “0” to “20”. The smaller the numerical value, the smaller the firing strength, and the larger the numerical value, the larger the firing strength. In addition, at the minimum firing strength “0”, the game ball is not fired. When the game ball has a low firing strength, “left-handed” is performed in which the launched game ball flows down to the left of the central device 24. When the game ball has a high launch strength, the fired game ball is placed in the central device 24. "Right-handed" will flow down to the right of the. As shown in FIG. 4, in the vicinity of the launch intensities “7” and “8”, the degree of entering the first starting port 28a is the highest. Further, the vicinity of the launch intensities “18” and “19” has the highest degree of entry into the second start port 28b.

  Further, in the pitching degree notification effect of the present embodiment, the current pitching intensity of the game ball by the launching device 12 is displayed on the pitching degree display unit. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the current launch intensity is “7”. The display position of the current firing intensity changes according to the operation amount (rotation amount) of the firing handle 10.

  The “degree of entry to the start opening 28” notified by the entry degree notification effect indicates the ease (or difficulty) of entering the game ball into the start opening 28 at a predetermined launch intensity. Yes. It is only necessary to be able to compare the degree of entry for each launch intensity, and it is only necessary to be able to recognize whether or not it is easier to enter the start opening 28 than other launch intensities. For this reason, as the degree of entrance to the start port 28, the entrance rate and the number of entrances to the start port 28 in a predetermined time may be indicated numerically, but in this embodiment, the degree of entrance to the start port 28 is indicated. It is configured so as to show in stages in a plurality of stages (for example, 5 stages). In order to indicate the degree of ball entry step by step, the maximum value of the number of balls entering the start port 28 when a game ball is launched at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time is acquired in advance, and the maximum value is By dividing into a plurality of stages, a plurality of stages of ball entry are set in advance. Then, by determining which of a plurality of preset stages the number of balls entering the start opening 28 within a predetermined time period is obtained, the degree of entrance to the start opening 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is obtained. can do.

  The pitching degree notification effect of the present embodiment is realized by the control processing of the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280. Acquisition of the degree of entry into the starting port 28 is performed by the sub-control unit 260, and the display of the degree of entry in the entry degree display unit is performed by the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280.

  The sub-control unit 260 can acquire the launch intensity of the game ball by inputting the launch operation amount signal of the variable resistor 10c via the launch control unit 230 and the main control unit 200. The number of balls entering the start port 28 (first start port 28a, second start port 28b) can be counted by inputting the ball detection signals of the start port entrance detection switches 28s and 28t. In this embodiment, the “predetermined time (launch time)” for counting the number of balls entering the starting port 28 is set to “60 seconds”. In a normal gaming machine, about 100 game balls are fired in 60 seconds, and the degree of entrance to the start port 28 is determined based on the number of game balls that have entered the start port 28 among the launched game balls. To be acquired. In addition, since the entrance to the start port 28 is detected by the start port entrance detection switches 28s and 28t, the number of entrances to the start port 28 is equal to the number of detections by the start entrance entrance detection switches 28s and 28t. The “degree of entering the start opening 28” can also be referred to as “the degree of detection by the start opening entering detection switches 28s and 28t”.

  In addition, the firing time is measured only when the touch switch 10a detects that the player is touching the launching handle 10 (when the launching operation is performed). When touching is not detected (when the firing operation is not performed), the firing time measurement is stopped. As a result, the time during which so-called “stopping” is performed can be excluded, and the reliability of the degree of entering the start port 28 can be improved.

  When it is determined that the game ball has been fired in a state where the predetermined launch strength is maintained until the game ball launch time reaches the predetermined time, the sub-control unit 260 determines whether the start opening 28 (first The number of game balls entering the first start port 28a and the second start port 28b) is counted, and the degree of entering the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is obtained based on the counted number of game balls, and the start is started. The degree of entering the mouth 28 is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 in association with the firing intensity. As the game progresses, the game balls are fired at various launch intensities, and the degree of entrance to the start port 28 at each launch intensity is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. Then, the sub-control unit 260 displays the degree of entrance to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity stored in the RAM on the entrance degree display unit provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, power is supplied to the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 from a backup power source unit (not shown), and the RAM data of the sub-control unit 260 is stored even when the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned off. It is configured to be retained. For this reason, the RAM data of the sub-control unit 260 can also hold the degree of entrance to the start opening 28 before the previous day, and the degree of entrance to the past start opening 28 immediately after the gaming machine 1 is turned on. Can be referred to.

  In addition, in a state where the degree of entering the starting port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260, the game ball is played for a predetermined time with the same launch intensity as the stored launch intensity. When fired, the sub-control unit 260 newly acquires the degree of entering the starting port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity and stores it in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. As a result, the degree of entry into the starting port 28 at the predetermined launch intensity already stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 is updated to the newly obtained degree of entry. Then, the sub-control unit 260 updates the display of the entrance degree display unit based on the entrance degree to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity newly stored in the RAM.

  Further, in this embodiment, the degree of entering the starting port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 is not updated when it is not updated even after a predetermined update reference time has elapsed. It is configured to change the display mode (notification mode) of the degree of entering the starting port 28 at the launch intensity. In this embodiment, the “predetermined update reference time” is set to “24 hours”. Thereby, it is possible to recognize that the degree of entering the starting port 28 at the launch intensity with the display mode changed is not updated even when a predetermined update reference time has elapsed, and the data is outdated.

  It is only necessary to change the display mode of the degree of entrance to the start port 28 at other launch intensities by changing the display mode of the degree of entrance to the start port 28 at a non-updated launch intensity. For example, when changing the display mode of the degree of entry to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity, the indication of the launch degree of the target launch intensity may be deleted, or the target launch intensity The display color of the entry degree may be changed, or the target entry degree display may be lightened. For example, in the case of a configuration in which the display of the degree of entry is thinned, multiple levels of shades are set, and the degree of entry is gradually reduced every time a predetermined update reference time (for example, 12 hours) elapses. Thus, it can be recognized for how long the data of the degree of entry into the starting port 28 at the launch intensity with the changed display mode has not been updated.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 5 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 5 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a in accordance with 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 throw-in process (S100), each process of a game start process (S200), a normal symbol game process (S300), a normal electric game game process (S400), a special symbol game process (S500), and a big hit game process (S600) Are repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. The power-off generation process (S50) is a power-on process (S100) when a power failure occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and a system reset occurs. It has come to move to.

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. Return settings etc. are made to make it happen. In the game start process (S200), various switch states are detected, various determination values (random number counters) are updated, prize ball payout control, etc. are performed. The normal symbol display device 51 (see FIG. 2) determines whether the normal symbol is hit and stopped in the normal symbol display mode or whether it is stopped and displayed in the off-normal symbol display mode. Here, as described above, the normal symbol success / failure determination in the present embodiment has a probability of being a hit according to the operating state of the opening time extension function (and the fluctuation time reduction function) that extends the opening time of the start port 28b. There is a difference that the probability of hitting is higher when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is activated than when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is not active.

  Next, when the result of normal symbol success / failure determination is obtained, the variation time of the normal symbol is set, and the variation display of the normal symbol is started according to the variation time. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the determined display mode, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started. (The 2nd starting port 28b is made into an open state). 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 balls have been entered. When it is determined that a prescribed number of balls have been entered at the second start port 28b in the open state or when it is determined that the open time of the second start 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. 6A, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process (S501) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the first start port 28a has been won (a game ball has entered) (S501a). If it is determined that the first start port 28a has not been won (S501a: NO), The process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first start port 28a has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the first special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the first special symbol reservation number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the process proceeds to S501d, and the first special symbol reservation number is less than 4. Is determined (S501b: YES), the first special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501c). The first special symbol determination value includes a first special symbol determination value, a first symbol determination value, a first reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the 1st special symbol reservation number increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b has been won (S501d). If it is determined that the second start port 28b has not been won (S501d: NO). The start opening winning process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the second start port 28b has been won (S501d: YES), it is determined whether or not the second special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501e). As a result, when it is determined that the second special symbol hold number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501e: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated, and the second special symbol hold number is less than 4. If it is determined that there is (S501e: YES), the second special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501f). The second special symbol determination value includes a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, a second reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the number of second special symbol reservation increases by one.

  Next, returning to FIG. 6A, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game is being played (the big hit game flag is ON) (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and the big hit game is not being played (the big hit game flag is OFF). ) (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S510 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). 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 (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S515 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of second special symbol hold is zero (S506). As a result, when it is determined that the number of second special symbol reservation is zero (S506: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of first special symbol reservation is zero (S507).

  If it is determined that the number of first special symbol reservation is not zero (S507: NO), the first special symbol variation display process is performed (S508). If it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), a second special symbol variation display process is performed (S509). That is, if it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), the first special symbol hold number is not zero (even if it is 1 or more). 2. The special symbol variation display process is executed. Thereby, the variation display of the second special symbol is performed in preference to the first special symbol, and the priority variation function of the second special symbol is realized by the determination processing in S506.

  Here, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) and the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. The first special symbol variation display process and the second special symbol variation display process are processes having the same contents. That is, the “special symbol” in FIG. 8 becomes “first special symbol” in the first special symbol variation display process, only “second special symbol” in the second special symbol variation display process, and the others are the same. is there. Hereinafter, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) will be described, and the description of the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be omitted.

  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). In the special symbol success / failure determination, when the probability variation function is in operation (probability change game), it is determined whether the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) using the high probability determination table. If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (in normal game), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). Make a decision.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (S508b) is a big hit (S508c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit hour variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508d). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a big hit (S508c: NO), a variation pattern table setting process at the time of losing is performed (S508e).

  Next, the variable pattern random number is acquired, and the symbol determining random number (the special symbol determining random number acquired when the game ball enters the starting port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. Read (S508f).

  Next, the variation pattern and the stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508g). As the special symbol variation pattern, the variation pattern random number acquired in S508h is used to select a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d or S508e. Note that each variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d and S508e is associated with a variation pattern random value and a variation pattern, and the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern random value obtained in S508f is the current variation pattern table. It is determined as a variation pattern to be used. The special symbol stop symbol is a symbol determination table stored in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200 using the special symbol determination random number read in S508f when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit. If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is unsuccessful, it is determined as a missed symbol. Similarly to the variation pattern table, the symbol determination table also associates the value of the special symbol determination random number with each jackpot symbol, and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the value of the special symbol determination random number read in S508f is It is determined as a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in the processing of S508g, the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508h), 1 is subtracted (S508i), and a symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508j). The “design variation start command” includes a variation pattern designation command, a special symbol information designation command, and a hold count designation command. The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in the processing of S508g, and the special symbol information designation command is a command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol similarly determined in the processing of S508g. is there. The number-of-holds designation command is a command for designating the number of special symbols held after the start of variable symbol display. When this symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect symbol variation display) is started under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 6A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503: YES), the changing special symbol. It is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (S510). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S510: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S510: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S511), and a special symbol designating command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S512). A stop display time is set (S513).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S514). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S514: 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 (S514: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is a big hit symbol (FIG. 6 ( b) S515).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S515: YES), the gaming state at the start of the big hit game is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (S516). The “game state at the time of starting the big hit game” includes the type of the big hit symbol stopped at that time and the setting state of the game state flags (probability change flag, fluctuation shortening flag, release extension flag) at that time Yes.

  Next, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S517). Thereby, the big hit game is started. Then, a jackpot game start command indicating that the jackpot game has started is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S518). The jackpot game start command is provided according to the type of jackpot game. When the sub-control unit 260 receives this command, a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) according to the type of jackpot game is performed. Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is set to ON (S519). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S519: NO), the process proceeds to the determination processing of S521, and when it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON ( (S519: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S520). As a result, the probability variation function stops operating with the start of the big hit game.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S521). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON. (S521: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S522), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S523). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function stops.

  Next, in the determination process of S515, when it is determined that the special symbol stopped symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is not a big hit symbol (in the case of a missed symbol) (S515: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S524). As a result, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S524: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S524: YES), “1” is subtracted from the fluctuation shortening counter (S525).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter obtained by subtracting “1” in S525 is “zero” (S526). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S526: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S526). : YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S527), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S528).

  As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating that the gaming state is such that the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function are not activated is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S529). Upon receiving this game state designation command, the sub-control unit 260 displays characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating that the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are inactive (normal state) on the effect display device 25. Processing to display in area V is performed.

  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, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, if it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the jackpot game processing is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, it is determined whether the number of rounds has reached “15 rounds”. Then, when the number of rounds reaches “15 rounds”, it is determined that the condition for ending the big hit game is satisfied.

  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).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S606 that the big hit game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game end process is performed (S609). Here, the big hit game end process (S609) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S609a), and it is determined whether or not the current big hit is a probable big hit (S609b). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S609b: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S609c). As a result, the probability variation function starts operating with the end of the big hit game. Then, “10,000” is set in the fluctuation shortening counter (S609d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation is not a big hit (S609b: NO), "100" is set to the fluctuation shortening counter (S609e).

  Next, the fluctuation shortening counter is set to ON (S609f), and the open extension flag is set to ON (S609g). As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function start to operate with the end of the big hit game. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating the operating state of the probability variation function, variation time shortening function, and opening time extension function is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S609h).

  Next, the pitch degree notification effect related processing executed by the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 will be described with reference to FIG. In the entry degree notification effect-related processing shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a is based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a). And a process executed by the CPU 280b mounted on the effect display control board 280a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 280b or a ROM mounted on the effect display control board 280a). include.

  As shown in FIG. 11, first, the current launch intensity of the game ball by the launching device 12 is acquired (S700). The acquired launch intensity of the game ball is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. The launch intensity of the game ball can be acquired based on the resistance value of the variable resistor 10c of the launch handle 10. Then, the current launch intensity acquired in the process of S700 is notified (S701). The notification of the current launch intensity is performed by displaying the current launch intensity on the entrance degree display section provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the launch intensity of the game ball acquired in the process of S700 has changed with respect to the previously acquired launch intensity (S702). As a result, when it is determined that the launch intensity of the game ball has not changed (S702: NO), the process proceeds to S705. On the other hand, when it is determined that the launch intensity of the game ball has changed (S702: YES), the launch time of the game ball being measured is reset (S703), and the number of balls entering the start opening 28 being measured is set. Reset (S704). The initial value “0” is set to the launch time of the game ball in the process of S703, and the initial value “0” is set to the number of balls entering the start port 28 in the process of S704. Thereby, the measurement of the firing time and the number of balls entering the starting port 28 are started from the time when the launch intensity of the game ball is changed.

  Next, the game ball firing time is measured (S705). In the process of S705, the firing time is measured only when the touch switch 10a detects that the player is touching the firing handle 10 (when the firing operation is performed). Then, the number of balls entering the start port 28 is acquired based on the ball detection signals from the start port entrance detection switches 28s and 28t (S706).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the firing time measured in the process of S705 is less than a predetermined time (60 seconds in this embodiment) (S707). As a result, when it is determined that the firing time is less than the predetermined time (60 seconds) (S707: YES), the process proceeds to S710. On the other hand, if it is determined that the firing time has not fallen below the predetermined time (60 seconds), that is, the firing time has reached the predetermined time (60 seconds) (S707: NO), the start port counted in the processing of S706 Based on the number of balls entered 28, the degree of entrance to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is acquired and stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 (S708). In the process of S708, the time stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 is also stored. Then, the degree of entering the starting port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is notified (S709). The notification of the degree of entry is performed by displaying the degree of entry on the entry degree display section provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. In addition, when the degree of entering the starting port 28 at the same launch intensity is already stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260, the data stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 is newly stored in the process of S708. And the display of the degree of entry to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is also updated in the degree-of-entry display section in the process of S709.

  Next, the update reference time (24 in the present embodiment) after being stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 in the degree of entering the start port 28 for each firing intensity stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. It is determined whether or not there is a degree of entry with a launch intensity that has passed (time) (S710). As a result, when it is determined that there is no entry degree of the launch intensity for which the update reference time has elapsed (S710: NO), the entry degree notification effect related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a degree of entry of the launch intensity after the update reference time has elapsed (S710: YES), the display mode of the degree of entry of the launch intensity that has not been updated is changed (S711). The process of S711 is performed for each firing intensity. Further, in the processing of S711, it is possible to erase the display of the degree of entry of the launch strength that has not been updated, change the display color, or make the display light.

  In the present embodiment described above, when a game ball is fired at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time, the start opening 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is detected based on the detection of the game ball by the start opening detection switches 28s and 28t. The degree of entering the ball (the degree of detection of the game ball by the start port detection switches 28s and 28t) is acquired and stored, and the degree of ball entering the start port 28 (the degree of detection of the game ball by the start port detection switches 28s and 28t) Is displayed on the entrance degree display section for each firing intensity. As a result, it is possible to easily recognize which launching intensity is optimal for causing the game ball to enter the start port 28 (for launching the game ball toward the start port 28). You can play games with strength.

  In addition, the optimum firing strength for causing the game ball to enter the start port 28 differs for each gaming machine due to nail adjustment or the like. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the degree of entry into the starting port 28 for each launching intensity is acquired and notified for each gaming machine, so that the optimum launching intensity unique to each gaming machine 1 can be easily obtained. Can be recognized.

  In this embodiment, since the current launch intensity is displayed on the entrance degree display portion, the relationship between the current launch intensity and the optimum launch intensity (the present launch intensity is larger than the optimum launch intensity). Can be easily recognized, and the current launch intensity can be easily adjusted to the optimum launch intensity.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the degree of entering the start opening 28 for each launch intensity is indicated by a relative size compared to other launch intensities, so that the per unit time to the start opening 28 for each launch intensity is shown. It is possible to make it impossible to grasp numerical values such as the number of entrances and entrance rate. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 having a high frequency of entering the starting port 28 from increasing.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the degree of entry to the start port 28 at a predetermined launch intensity is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 at a predetermined time with the same launch intensity as the stored launch intensity. When a game ball is fired over, the stored entry degree is updated and the display content of the entry degree display unit is updated. As a result, the degree of entry into the start opening 28 for each firing intensity can be kept up-to-date, and even when nails are adjusted, the entry into the starting opening 28 for each firing intensity is made. The degree of sphere can be made highly reliable.

  Further, in this embodiment, when there is a launch strength entry level that is not updated even after the update reference time has elapsed since it is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260, the launch strength entry that has not been updated is entered. The display mode of the degree is configured to be changed. In this way, by changing the display mode of the degree of entry that is not updated, nail adjustment etc. is performed by the time the update reference time elapses, even if the past data is no longer helpful, It is possible to prevent the reliability of the degree of ball entering the start opening 28 for each firing intensity from being lowered.

  Here, the correspondence between the present embodiment and each means of the present invention will be described. The “fire handle 10” corresponds to the “fire strength changing means” of the present invention, and the launch device 12 corresponds to the “launch” of the present invention. Corresponding to the “means”, the start port 28 (first start port 28a, second start port 28b) corresponds to the “predetermined portion of the game area” of the present invention, and the start port entrance detection switches 28s, 28t of the present invention. Corresponding to “detecting means”, “degree of entry into starting port 28” corresponds to “degree of detection by detecting means” of the present invention, and CPU 200b of main control unit 200 corresponds to “starting port state control means” of the present invention. The CPU 260b of the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the “measurement unit” of the present invention, the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the “storage unit” of the present invention, and the CPU 260b of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control CPU 280b of unit 280 and Out display device 25 corresponds to the "notification unit" of the present invention.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  FIG. 12 shows a display example of the pitching degree notification effect of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 4 of the first embodiment. 12A shows the degree of entering the ball into the first starting port 28a, FIG. 12B shows the degree of entering the ball into the second starting port 28b, and FIG. 12C shows the big winning port 33a. Shows the degree of entry to. In the ball entry degree notification effect of the second embodiment, the degree of entry of the first start opening 28a, the degree of entry of the second start opening 28b, and the degree of entry to the big winning opening 33a are different game states. It is comprised so that it may alert | report separately.

  As described above, the first start port 28 a is provided below the central device 24 (effect display device 25), and is fired by “left-handed” aiming at the left area of the game area 21. A game ball flowing down to the left can enter, and the second start port 28b is provided on the right side surface of the central device 24, and is fired by “right-handed” aiming at the right side area of the game area 21 for production. A game ball flowing down to the right of the display device 25 can enter. In addition, the big winning opening 33a is provided horizontally below the central device 24, and enters a state in which it is possible to enter a ball during the big hit game. The big winning opening 33a has a high pitching frequency when a game ball is fired around a medium launch strength.

  For this reason, by changing the firing strength of the game ball in each game state (when the opening time extension function is inactive, when the opening time extension function is in operation, and during the big hit game), each entrance (first start port 28a, A game ball can be efficiently entered into the second start opening 28b and the big winning opening 33a). Therefore, in the pitching degree notification effect of the second embodiment, the pitching degree to the first starting port 28a, the second starting port 28b, and the big winning port 33a is notified in different game states. Specifically, when the opening time extension function is not activated, the degree of entry of the first start port 28a is notified by the entry degree notification effect, and when the opening time extension function is activated, the second start is performed by the entry degree notification effect. The degree of entry into the mouth 28b is notified, and the degree of entry into the big winning opening 33a is notified during the big hit game with the entry degree notification effect.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process for instructing the degree of entering ball in the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 11 in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the number of balls entered into the first start port 28a, the second start port 28b, and the big winning port 33a is acquired in the process of S706, and the first start at a predetermined launch intensity is performed in the process of S708. The degree of entrance to the entrance 28a, the second start entrance 28b, and the big winning entrance 33a is acquired for each entrance and stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. Then, after the processing of S708, it is determined whether or not a big hit game is being played (S712).

  As a result, if it is determined that the game is not a big hit game (S712: NO), it is determined whether or not the open time extension function is in operation (S713). As a result, when it is determined that the opening time extension function is not in operation (S713: NO), the first start port 28a enters the entrance degree display section provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. The degree (FIG. 12A) is displayed (S714). On the other hand, when it is determined that the open time extension function is in operation (S713: YES), the degree of entry of the second start port 28b is displayed on the degree of entry display portion provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. (FIG. 12B) is displayed (S715).

  Also, if it is determined in S712 that the game is a big hit game (S712: YES), the big winning opening 33a is entered in the entrance degree display section provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. The degree of sphere (FIG. 12C) is displayed (S716).

  According to the configuration of the second embodiment described above, the degree of entry of the first start port 28a is notified by the entry degree notification effect during the opening time extension function operation, and the opening time extension function is not operated. Notifies the degree of entry of the second start opening 28b in a degree of entry notification effect, and notifies the degree of entry to the big winning opening 33a during the big hit game. In this way, the player can enter each entrance (first start port 28a, second start port 28b) by changing the entrance for notifying the entrance degree in the entrance degree notifying effect according to the game state. In addition, it is possible to easily recognize the optimal launch strength for causing the game ball to enter the grand prize winning opening 33a), and it is possible to perform the game with the optimum launch strength according to the gaming state.

(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 the second embodiment, it is configured to notify the degree of entry of one big winning opening 33a in the degree of entry notification effect, but a plurality of big winning openings are provided, and depending on the type of jackpot game. In a configuration in which the big winning opening which becomes a ball possible state is different, the big winning opening which notifies the degree of winning may be made different depending on the type of the big hit game. For example, if the first big winning opening which becomes possible to enter during the first big hit game is arranged below the central device 24 and “left-handed”, the frequency of entering the ball is increased, and the second big hit game is being played. When the second big winning opening that is ready to enter is placed on the right side of the central device 24 and “right-handed” is made, the frequency of entering the ball is increased. Then, the degree of entry of the first grand prize opening is notified by the entry degree notification effect during the first big hit game, and the degree of entry of the second big prize opening is announced by the degree of entry notification effect during the second big hit game. May be notified.

  In each of the above embodiments, the degree of entry to the start port 28 (the first start port 28a, the second start port 28b) or the big winning port 33a is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260, and the past degree of entry is stored. Although the configuration is such that the data is accumulated, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration may be such that the ball entry degree data stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 can be arbitrarily reset (erased). Specifically, the player may be able to reset the entry degree data by operating the effect button 8 or the like. Thereby, a player who does not want to refer to past pitching degree data can refer to pitching degree data only for a period in which he / she played. In addition, the game hall side may be able to reset the entry degree data by operating a switch or the like provided on the back surface of the game board 20. As a result, for example, when the past entry degree data is no longer useful as a result of nail adjustment or the like, the past entry degree data can be deleted.

  In each of the above embodiments, when a game ball is fired at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time, the entrance to the ball entrance (the first start port 28a, the second start port 28b, the big winning port 33a) is performed. The time to detect the entry of the game ball is configured to coincide with the time when the game ball is launched, but considering the time from the launch of the game ball to the entrance, the entrance The time for detecting the game ball entering the first start port 28a, the second start port 28b, and the big winning port 33a is a predetermined detection delay time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) from the time when the game ball is launched. ) May be delayed.

  In the configuration of each of the above embodiments, the player may be able to select and display the degree of entry for a desired entrance. That is, the degree of entry for each entry is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260, and the entry degree of the desired entry is displayed by, for example, the player operating the effect button 8. You can make it possible. Thereby, the player can recognize the entrance degree of the entrance with different optimum launch intensity irrespective of the game state.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, examples where the entrance for notifying the degree of entry in the entry degree notification effect is the start opening 28 (first start opening 28a, second start opening 28b) or the big winning opening 33a. As described above, but not limited to this, the notification target of the degree-of-entry notification effect may be another entrance such as the winning entrances 34 to 37 or the normal symbol operating gate 27, and a game ball is launched aiming at the location. What is necessary is just to be a “predetermined portion of the game area 21” that can be obtained and can detect a game ball.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the entry degree notification effect is displayed on the entry degree display portion provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25, thereby entering the game area at a predetermined place in the game area at a predetermined launch intensity. Although it was configured to visually notify the degree, it is not limited thereto, and it is only necessary to notify the degree of entry at a predetermined position of the game area at a predetermined launch intensity in a manner that can be recognized by the player. You may make it alert | report. For example, it is possible to audibly notify the degree of entry at a predetermined location in the game area at a predetermined launch intensity by sound from the speakers 11a to 11d.

  In the above embodiment, the game balls supplied from the island facilities in the game hall are used as “rental balls” or “prize balls”, and various winning holes (first start port, second start port) provided on the game board are used. To a gaming machine (pachinko machine) that gives a player a gaming profit (game value) by paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the number of game balls that enter the mouth, big prize opening, etc.) Although an example in which the invention is applied has been described, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine that gives gaming profits in a form different from “payout of prize balls”.

  For example, when a game ball is entered into various winning holes, data indicating the amount of profit (the magnitude of the game value) corresponding to the ball is stored in the RAM of the main control unit or the payout control unit. Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine in which a gaming profit (game value) is given to a player. In this case as well, the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained. As a type of gaming machine in which gaming profit (game value) is converted into data and given to the player, a gaming machine that circulates and uses a plurality of gaming balls built in the gaming machine, specifically, Examples of the game machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return the game ball discharged to the back surface of the game board through various winning holes or out holes to the launch position and launch it again.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 10 ... Launching handle (launching intensity change means), 12 ... Launching device (launching means), 21 ... Game area, 28a ... 1st starting port (predetermined location), 28b ... 2nd starting port (predetermined location) ), 28 s, 28 t... Start opening ball detection switch (detection means), 33 a... Large winning opening (predetermined location), 33 s. Control means), 260... Sub-control section (measurement means, storage means, notification means), 280... Production display control section (notification means).

Claims (1)

Launching means for launching a game ball into the game area;
Firing intensity changing means capable of changing the firing intensity of the game ball by the launching means;
Detecting means for detecting a game ball launched into the game area;
When a game ball is fired at a predetermined launch intensity for a predetermined time, the detection degree of the detection means at the predetermined launch intensity is acquired based on the detection result of the detection means, and the detection degree for each launch intensity. Storage means capable of storing
Measuring means for measuring the predetermined time;
Informing means for informing the plurality of detection degrees stored in the storage means in association with the launch intensity;
Equipped with a,
As the detection means, a first detection means and a second detection means are provided,
The notifying means varies depending on the gaming state whether the detecting means of the first detecting means or the second detecting means is to be notified,
The game area can be changed to a first start port through which game balls can enter, a first mode in which game balls can be entered, and a second mode in which game balls can be entered. A second starting port is provided,
The frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is changed from the normal normal frequency state to the high frequency state in which the frequency at which the second start port is in the second mode is higher than the normal frequency state. A starting port mode control means for causing
The first detection means detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening, and the second detection means detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening. And
The notifying means notifies the detection degree of the first detection means in the normal frequency state, and notifies the detection degree of the second detection means in the high frequency state .

Images