JP5852993B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine including a holding device for holding a game ball.

Conventionally, pachinko gaming machines are configured such that when a player rotates an operation handle, game balls are continuously fired toward a game area formed on the game board.
In the game area, there are a start opening, a winning opening, a big winning opening, etc. When a game ball wins at the starting opening, a jackpot lottery will be held, and if winning the jackpot lottery, a special game (bonanza) It is configured to perform control. In such special games, the big prize opening provided on the game board is opened so that the game ball can be easily won, and the prize ball corresponding to the game ball won in the big prize opening is paid out to the player. It has become. In addition, the game balls are not limited to the big winning opening, and even if game balls win the start opening and winning opening, a predetermined number of gaming balls will be paid out.

  In addition, in a gaming machine that performs a predetermined lottery (a jackpot lottery, a normal symbol lottery, etc.) triggered by the entry of a game ball into the start area (start port / general gate), It is widely known to have a holding memory for holding the right of the lottery when a predetermined lottery or the like cannot be performed even if the vehicle enters. With this holding storage, a predetermined lottery can be continuously performed.

  Here, even if the holding memory is provided, there is no data stored in the holding memory in order to prevent the continuous predetermined lottery and the fluctuation of the symbol from being interrupted by adjusting the nail of the gaming machine or the like (holding memory = In the case of 0), a gaming machine that determines a long symbol variation time is known (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-189393 A

However, there is a limit to lengthening the fluctuation time of the symbols, and there is still room for improvement in order to prevent the continuous predetermined lottery from being interrupted by adjusting the nails of the gaming machine.
In particular, in the so-called short-time gaming state, when the regular symbol lottery is interrupted for the regular symbol lottery triggered by the regular gate, the variable prize-winning device (electric tulip) will not be released, resulting in a short-time gaming state. Since the number of game balls will decrease, the interest of the player may be significantly reduced.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can prevent a predetermined lottery that is triggered by the entry of a game ball into a starting area.

In order to solve such a problem, a gaming machine according to the present invention is provided on a gaming board, and is a variable prize that can be changed between an open state in which game balls are easy to enter and a closed state in which game balls are difficult to enter. A device, a first start area provided in the game board and into which a game ball can enter, a second start area provided in the game board and into which the game ball can enter, and the first start area or A start area detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start area; a determination information acquiring means for acquiring determination information based on detection of a game ball by the start area detecting means; and the determination On-hold storage means for storing the determination information acquired by the information acquisition means up to a predetermined upper limit number, and on the basis of the determination information stored in the on-hold storage means, the variable winning device is changed from the closed state to the open state. Whether or not An opening determination means for performing the game, and a non-specific game state in which the variable winning device is unlikely to be in the open state from the closed state or a specific game state in which the variable winning device is likely to be in the open state from the closed state. Specific game state determination means for determining a state, specific game state control means for controlling the game state determined by the specific game state determination means, and a plurality of game balls flowing down to the game board are received and received When a plurality of game balls are held and the release condition is satisfied, a holding device that causes the held game balls to flow down toward the second start area, and the number of game balls held by the hold device Total number calculation for calculating the total number of the number counting means for counting, the number of determination information stored in the holding storage means and the number of game balls counted by the number counting means Includes a stage, a,
The holding device is
When the total number calculated by the total number calculating means is equal to or greater than a specific number, the game balls that are on hold are caused to flow down toward the second starting area, and the total number calculated by the total number calculating means is When the number is not more than the specific number, the release condition is determined based on the game state controlled by the specific game state control means, and the game ball held on the basis of the determination result is determined in the second start area. It is made to flow down toward.

  According to the present invention, even when it is difficult for a game ball to enter the first start area by adjusting a nail of the game machine, the game ball held by the holding device flows down toward the second start area. Therefore, the predetermined lottery triggered by the entry of the game ball into the start area can be prevented from being interrupted.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the gaming machine with the glass frame opened. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of a holding device. It is a block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the conceptual diagram of the jackpot determination table of jackpot lottery and the hit determination table of normal symbol lottery. It is a figure which shows an example of the conceptual diagram of a symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the conceptual diagram of the setting data table at the time of jackpot game completion. It is a figure which shows the conceptual diagram of the special electrically-powered object operation mode determination table. It is a figure which shows the conceptual diagram of a big winning opening open | release mode determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the reservation ball | bowl detection sensor input process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the hold release sensor input process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the firing operation signal input process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol fluctuation | variation process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol stop process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the jackpot game end process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the data creation process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the output control process in a main control board. It is a perspective view which shows Embodiment 2 of a holding | maintenance apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows Embodiment 3 of a holding | maintenance apparatus.

  First, Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described, and then Embodiments 2 and 3 corresponding to modifications of Embodiment 1 will be described.

(Embodiment 1)
(Composition of gaming machine)
Next, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 1 with the glass frame of the present invention opened, and FIG. 3 is a rear side of one gaming machine 1. It is a perspective view.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, A first effect button 35 and a second effect button 36 are provided for changing the effect mode or inputting information by a pressing operation.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls 200 flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One by one is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface. Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball 200 sent out from the ball feed opening 41 has a downward slope of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the end (see FIG. 2).

  When the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a (see FIG. 5) provided inside the operation handle 3 detects that the operation handle 3 and the player are in contact with each other. Thereafter, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. By rotating the launch member 4 c, the game ball 200 stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 is launched by the launch member 4 c, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 is small, the game ball is launched with a weak force, and the game ball flows down to the left game area 6. When the moving angle is large, the game ball is launched with a strong force, and the game ball flows down to the game area 6 on the right side.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably due to a plurality of obstacle nails and windmills implanted in the game board 2.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of the general prize opening 12 is provided with a general prize opening detection switch 12a. When the general prize opening detection switch 12a detects the entry of a game ball, a plurality of game balls (for example, 10 game balls). ) Is paid out.

  Further, a first start port 14 constituting a first start area into which a game ball can enter is provided substantially at the center of the game area 6, and a game ball enters the right side of the game area. A second starting port 15 is provided which constitutes a second starting region where a ball can be formed.

  Although the first start port 14 is provided in the approximate center of the game area 6, the game ball 200 that has flowed down the left side of the game area 6 by the obstacle nail implanted in the game board 2 is more It is configured to make it easier to enter the first starting port 14 than the game ball 200 that has flowed down on the right side. On the other hand, since the second start port 15 is provided on the right side of the game area 6, the game ball 200 flowing down the right side of the game area 6 is more than the game ball 200 flowing down the left side of the game area 6. The second starting port 15 is configured to easily enter the ball.

  The second starting port 15 has a pair of movable pieces 15b, and a closed mode in which the pair of movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state and an open mode in which the pair of movable pieces 15b are in an open state. Movable controlled. When the second start port 15 is controlled in the above-described closed state, the game ball cannot be received due to an obstacle positioned between the first start port 14 and the second start port 15. On the other hand, when the second starting port 15 is controlled to the above-described opening mode, the pair of movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and it is easy to win a game ball to the second starting port 15. That is, the second starting port 15 has no chance to win game balls when the pair of movable pieces 15b are in the closed state, and increases the chance to win game balls when the pair of movable pieces 15b are in the open state.

  The first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch 15a for detecting the entrance of a game ball. Is provided. Then, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of the game ball, a special symbol determination random number value or the like is acquired, and an execution right for executing the jackpot game described later is acquired. A lottery (hereinafter referred to as “big hit lottery”) is performed.

  In addition, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entrance of a game ball, in addition to the special symbol determination random number value, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed is determined. The random number value for jackpot symbol for the purpose, the random value for reach determination for determining the variation time of the special symbol, the random number value for special figure variation, etc. are also acquired.

  Here, the “big hit lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, a special symbol determination random value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determination random value is This is a process for determining whether the random value corresponds to “big hit”. Further, “big jackpot” means that in the above jackpot lottery, the right to execute a jackpot game has been acquired (winning jackpot).

  The lottery result of the jackpot lottery does not mean that the game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 and the lottery result is notified immediately, but the game ball enters the first start port 14. In such a case, the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol. When a game ball enters the second start port 15, the second special symbol display device 21 blinks the special symbol. When a predetermined fluctuation time has elapsed, a special symbol corresponding to the lottery lottery result is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  Further, when the first start port detection switch 14a detects the entry of a game ball, a plurality of game balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out, and the second start port detection switch 15a is played by the game ball. When one ball is detected, one game ball is paid out.

  As described above, when the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, only one game ball is paid out, that is, the game ball enters the second start port 15. In this case, only one game ball is paid out because when a pair of movable pieces 15b make it easy to win a game ball to the second starting port 15, a large number of game balls are second. This is to prevent excessive game balls from being paid out by entering the starting port 15.

  Further, on the right side of the game area, a first normal symbol gate 18 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass is provided.

  As described above, since the first normal symbol gate 18 is provided on the right side of the game area 6, the game ball 200 flowing down the right side of the game area 6 is more than the game ball 200 flowing down the left side of the game area 6. The first normal design gate 18 is configured to pass easily. In particular, even if the short game state, which will be described later, is entered, if the game ball flows down to the left side of the game area 6, the game ball does not pass through the first normal symbol gate 18. The pair of movable pieces 15b are not opened, and it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 15.

  The first normal symbol gate 18 is provided with a first gate detection switch 18a for detecting the passage of the game ball to the first normal symbol gate 18, and the first gate detection switch 18a detects the passage of the game ball. When detected, a random number value for normal symbol determination is acquired, and a “normal symbol lottery” described later is performed.

  When the first gate detection switch 18a detects the passing of the game ball, in addition to the normal symbol determination random number value, the normal symbol stop random number value for determining the normal symbol to be stopped, normal Random values for normal time etc. for determining the symbol variation time are also acquired.

Further, a holding device 10 for holding a game ball is provided on the right side of the game area 6, and a second normal symbol gate 19 is provided immediately below the holding device 10.
For this reason, when the game ball held by the holding device 10 is released, the held game ball falls toward the second normal symbol gate 19. Details of the holding device 10 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Similarly to the first normal symbol gate 18, the second normal symbol gate 19 is also provided with a second gate detection switch 19 a that detects the passage of a game ball to the second normal symbol gate 19. When the second gate detection switch 19a detects the passing of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number is acquired and the “normal symbol lottery” is performed, as in the first gate detection switch 18a.

  Here, “ordinary symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the first ordinary symbol gate 18 or the second ordinary symbol gate 19, a random number value for determining a normal symbol is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determining randomness is obtained. A process for determining whether or not a numerical value is a random value corresponding to “win”.

  The lottery result of the normal symbol lottery is not that the game symbol passes through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19 and the lottery result is notified immediately. Fluctuation display such as blinking is performed, and when a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  The first normal symbol gate 18 (first gate detection switch 18a) and the second normal symbol gate 19 (second gate detection switch 19a) have exactly the same function, and the obtained random number value is also the same. It is stored in the storage area, and the variable display and the stop display are performed on the same normal symbol display device 22. In this regard, the first starting port detection switch 14a and the second starting port detection switch 15a store the acquired random number values in different storage areas, and the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 It is different from the fact that the variable display and the stop display are performed by different special symbol display devices.

  In addition, a large winning opening 16 into which a game ball can be inserted is provided in the approximate center of the game area 6 and below the first start port 14.

  The special winning opening 16 is normally kept closed by the special winning opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. On the other hand, when a jackpot game, which will be described later, is executed, the big prize opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the big prize opening / closing door 16b functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the big winning opening 16, A game ball can enter the grand prize opening 16. The big prize opening 16 is provided with a big prize opening detection switch 16a. When the big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, the number of game balls entering the big prize opening 16 is counted. At the same time, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out.

  Here, the “big hit game” is a game in which the big prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened and a game ball can enter the big prize opening 16, and after the right to execute the big hit game is acquired. It is a game to be played.

  In this jackpot game, a round game in which the big winning opening 16 is opened is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times). The opening time of the grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set in advance, and if a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 9 balls) enter the big winning opening 16 during this opening time, one round The game ends.

  At the bottom of the game area 6, a first ball for discharging a game ball that has not entered any of the general winning port 12, the first starting port 14, the second starting port 15, and the big winning port 16. An out port 11 is provided.

In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. An image display device (LCD) 31 is provided at a substantially central portion of the decoration member 7, and an effect drive device 33 in the form of a belt is provided above the image display device 31.
In the present embodiment, the image display device 31 is used as a liquid crystal display device. However, a plasma display or an organic EL display may be used, or a projector, a reel made of an annular structure, a so-called 7-segment LED. Alternatively, a display device such as a dot matrix may be used.

  The image display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, a plurality of (for example, three) effect symbols 39 for informing the lottery result of the big hit lottery to be described later are variably displayed, and a specific combination of the effect symbols 38 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed. The jackpot is notified as a lottery result of the jackpot lottery.

  When the game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, this effect symbol 39 is displayed in a variable manner in accordance with a special symbol, which will be described later. Stop display according to the symbol stop display. That is, the timing of the change display of the effect symbol 39 and the special symbol and the timing of the stop display of the effect symbol 39 and the special symbol are the same time.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, this effect symbol 39 is the same whether a game ball enters the first start port 14 or when a game ball enters the second start port 15. Various types of effect symbols 39 are displayed in a variable or stopped manner. However, different types of effect symbols 39 may be variably displayed or stopped when a game ball enters the first start port 14 and when a game ball enters the second start port 15. I do not care.

  The image display device 31 displays various images, characters, and the like when the display of the effect symbol 39 is changed, and gives the player a sense of expectation that a winning game may be won depending on the displayed image. If yes.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. The effect driving device 33 performs, for example, an operation in which the belt moves downward or a rotating member at the center of the belt rotates. Various operational feelings are given to the player depending on the operation mode of the effect driving device 33.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color are changed to produce an effect by illumination.

The first effect button 35 mainly functions as a “decision button”, and the second effect button 36 mainly functions as a “select button”.
The first effect button 35 is provided with a first effect button detection switch 35a that detects one pressing operation, and the second effect button 36 includes second effect button detection switches 36a to 36a that detect a plurality of pressing operations. 36e is provided. When a player's pressing operation is detected from the first effect button detection switch 35a or the second effect button detection switches 36a to 36e, the image displayed on the image display device 31 is changed or information is input. Will be.

On the left and right sides of the image display device 31 of the game board 2, there are provided hold release sensors 17a for detecting a player's operation and causing the hold device 10 to release the hold of the game ball. The hold release sensor 17a is composed of an optical sensor (photo sensor or the like), and can detect the player's operation from the game board through the glass plate 52 provided in the glass frame 50.
In the first embodiment, the left and right hold release sensors 17a perform the same function. However, in the third embodiment, the left hold release sensor 17a is the first hold release sensor 17a-1 as described later. Yes, the hold release sensor 17a on the right side constitutes a second hold release sensor 17a-2.

  Outside the gaming area at the lower right of the game board 2, the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21, the normal symbol display device 22, the first special symbol hold display 23, the second special symbol hold display A device 24 and a normal symbol hold display device 25 are provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 notifies a lottery result of a jackpot lottery performed when a game ball enters the first start port 14, and is composed of 7-segment LEDs. . By displaying a special symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the jackpot lottery on the first special symbol display device 20, the lottery result is notified to the player. For example, “7” is stopped and displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is stopped and displayed when the player is lost. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying the lottery result of the jackpot lottery performed when the game ball enters the second starting port 15, and its role is the first special display This is the same as the symbol display device 20.

  Here, in this embodiment, the special symbol of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 and the effect symbol 39 of the image display device 31 are used as display devices for notifying the lottery result of the same jackpot lottery. It has. The special symbols of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 are controlled on the main control board 110 side, as will be described later, and directly affect the gaming state. The effect symbol 39 of the device 31 is controlled on the effect control board 120 side as will be described later, and is a symbol intended for the effect, and is different in that it does not directly affect the gaming state.

  Further, the normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19. As will be described in detail later, when the normal symbol lottery is won, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to be opened for a predetermined time.

In addition, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or during a big hit game, and if a big hit lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition is applied. And the right to win a lottery is put on hold. Specifically, the special symbol determination random number value acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored in the first special symbol random value storage area as the first hold, and the second start port 15 The special symbol determination random number value acquired when the game ball enters is stored in the second special symbol random number storage area as the second hold.
The number of holds for which the right of lottery lottery is held has an upper limit set to 4 for each of the first hold and the second hold. The reserved numbers are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24, respectively. Specifically, when there is one first hold, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 is lit, and when there are two first holds, the first special symbol hold indicator 23 Two LEDs light up. In addition, when there are three first holds, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 blinks and the right LED is lit, and when there are four first holds, the first special symbol hold. Two LEDs on the display 23 blink. The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.

Similarly, when a game ball passes through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19 during normal symbol fluctuation display or when the second start port 15 is open, the normal symbol lottery cannot be performed immediately. The right to draw a normal symbol is reserved under certain conditions. Specifically, the normal symbol determination random number value obtained when the game ball passes through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19 is stored in the normal symbol holding storage area and the first normal symbol gate 18 and The second normal symbol gate 19 is stored without distinction.
The number of normal symbol holdings (F) in which the right of the normal symbol lottery is reserved is set to an upper limit number of four. The normal symbol hold number (F) is displayed on the normal symbol hold indicator 25 in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via the hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). With 51 as a fulcrum, the other end in the left-right direction (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to be released from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2. A lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided on the other end side in the left-right direction of the glass frame 50. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back side of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

(Description of hold device)
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the holding device 10 for holding the game ball will be described.

  The holding device 10 includes a game ball holding unit 10 a that holds the game ball 200, a standing unit 10 b that is set up from the game board 2, a receiving port 10 c that receives the game ball 200 in the holding device 10, and a game A discharge port 10d for discharging the game ball 200 held by the ball holding unit 10a. A second normal symbol gate 19 is provided immediately below the game ball holding unit 10a.

  Furthermore, on the upper part of the game ball holding unit 10a, as shown in FIG. 4A, a plurality of hold ball detection sensors 17b1 to 17b1 of optical sensors for detecting the game ball 200 held in the hold device 10 are provided. 17b4 is provided.

  The game ball holding portion 10a is configured to be movable between a protruding position protruding from the game board 2 and an immersed position where the game ball holding section 10a is immersed in the game board 2. The game ball holding section 10a is formed to be bent so that the central portion is slightly recessed.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, when the game ball holding unit 10a is in the protruding position, the first game ball 200 that has passed through the receiving port 10c is placed in the center of the game ball holding unit 10a. 200 will be put on hold.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), the standing portion 10b allows the first game to be held so that N (four in this embodiment) game balls 200 can be held. It has a specific length L1 from the lowest point of the ball 200 (the central part of the game ball holding unit 10a).

  The specific length L1 is greater than the total value obtained by adding the first multiplication value (three diameters) obtained by multiplying the game ball diameter L2 and N-1 (three) by the game ball radius L3. It is long and shorter than the second multiplication value (four diameters) obtained by multiplying the diameters L2 and N (four pieces) of the game balls.

  Accordingly, N (4) game balls can be held, and the (N + 1) th game ball is bounced by the Nth game ball and is not held by the holding device 10.

  In addition, in holding N game balls, if the specific length L1 is longer than the first multiplication value (three diameters) and shorter than the second multiplication value (four diameters). In many cases, depending on the width of the receiving port 10c, it is desirable to be equal to or less than a total value (three diameters + 1 radius) obtained by adding the radius L3 of the game ball to the first multiplication value.

  Moreover, as shown to Fig.4 (a), the some holding ball detection sensors 17b1-17b4 are comprised so that each of the several holding game balls can be detected, The 1st holding ball detection sensor 17b1 is The first reserved game ball can be detected, the second reserved ball detection sensor 17b2 can detect the second reserved game ball, and the third reserved ball detection sensor 17b3 is the third one. The fourth held ball detection sensor 17b4 is configured to detect the fourth held game ball.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 4C, when a specific operation is performed by the player when a specific condition is established (the player's release operation by the hold release sensor 17a is detected or the touch sensor 3a is used. Detection), the game ball holding unit 10a moves to the immersive position, and the release operation of dropping the held game ball 200 toward the second normal symbol gate 19 is performed.

  If there is no specific operation by the player when a specific condition is established, the game ball holding unit 10a is held at the protruding position.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 4C, whether the game ball 200 held by the game ball holding unit 10a falls toward the second normal symbol gate 19 and passes through the second normal symbol gate 19? Then, it is discharged from the discharge port 10d.

In particular, in the present embodiment, since the second normal symbol gate 19 is located directly under the game ball holding unit 10a, the game ball 200 held by the game ball holding unit 10a is discharged from the discharge port 10d. Is also configured to easily pass through the second normal symbol gate 19.
However, the game ball 200 held by the game ball holding unit 10a may be configured to be easily discharged from the discharge port 10d rather than passing through the second normal symbol gate 19.

As described above, in the holding device 10 of the present embodiment, when the player performs a specific operation when a specific condition is satisfied, the game ball 200 held in the game ball holding unit 10a is stored in the second state. It can be passed through the normal symbol gate 19.
For this reason, when the reserved number of the normal symbol lottery decreases, the game ball 200 held in the game ball holding unit 10a is passed through the second normal symbol gate 19 to prevent a decrease in the reserved number of the normal symbol lottery. be able to.

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described with reference to the entire block diagram of the gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20, the big prize opening opening / closing solenoid 16c, etc. Is used to control the game.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, and an input port and an output port (not shown) for main control.

  The main control input port has a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a gaming ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a gaming ball having entered the first start port 14. The first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the game, the second start port detection switch 15a for detecting that the game ball has entered the second start port 15, and the detection of the game ball having entered the big winning port 16 First prize detection switch 16a, a first gate detection switch 18a for detecting that a game ball has entered the first normal symbol gate 18, and a second for detecting that a game ball has entered the second normal symbol gate 19 Gate detection switch 19a, hold release sensor 17a for causing the holding device 10 to release the hold of the game ball, hold ball detecting sensor for detecting whether or not the game ball is stored in the hold device 10 7b1~17b4 is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The main control output port includes a payout control board 130, a hold release solenoid 10s for driving the game ball holding unit 10a, and a start port opening / closing solenoid that opens and closes the pair of movable pieces 15b of the second start port 15. 15c, a special prize opening / closing solenoid 16c for operating the special prize opening / closing door 16b, a first special symbol display device 20 and a second special symbol display device 21 for displaying special symbols, and a normal symbol display device 22 for displaying normal symbols, A first special symbol hold indicator 23 and a second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved balls of a special symbol, a normal symbol hold indicator 25 for displaying the number of reserved balls of a normal symbol, and a game for outputting an external information signal An information output terminal board 30 is connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

  The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games. For example, a jackpot determination table (see FIG. 6) used in the jackpot lottery, a hit determination table (see FIG. 6) used in the normal symbol lottery, a symbol determination table (see FIG. 7) for determining a special symbol stop symbol, and the jackpot end A jackpot game end setting data table (see FIG. 8) for determining a later game state is stored in the main ROM 110b. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, the main RAM 110c includes a special symbol special electricity processing data storage area, a normal symbol hold count (F) storage area, a normal symbol hold storage area, a normal symbol data storage area, a first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, 2 Special symbol holding number (U2) storage area, 1st special symbol random value storage area, 2nd special symbol random value storage area, round number (R) storage area, number of open times (K) storage area, winning prize entrance Number (C) storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and short time game flag storage area), high probability game number (X) counter, time reduction number (J) counter, game state buffer, stop symbol data storage Area, transmission data storage area for production, random number counter corresponding to various random values, N counter, first to fourth held flag storage area, hold release flag storage area, firing operation flag storage area, Pieces release timer counter, and the special symbol time counter, special game timer counter, start interval timer counter, start time timer counter, closing time timer counter, a variety of timer counter and end interval timer counter provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is provided with a connector that is wired to the main control board 110 and connects external information to a hall computer or the like of the game store.

  Here, the external information signal output to the hall computer or the like of the game store is composed of serial data of a plurality of bytes by serial communication, and each bit includes game information such as a symbol confirmation signal. In this embodiment, the serial data of the external information is composed of 8 bits, the 0th bit means ON / OFF of the symbol determination signal, the 1st bit means ON / OFF of the jackpot signal, and the 2nd bit. Means ON / OFF of the short-time / big hit signal.

  The power supply substrate 170 is a substrate that supplies a power supply voltage to various substrates. For power supply to the main control board 110, a backup power source dedicated to the main control board, which is a capacitor, is provided. Note that the backup power supply of the power supply board 170 is not limited to a capacitor, and may be, for example, a battery or a combination of a capacitor and a battery.

  Therefore, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 constitutes a storage means capable of storing the written data even when the power to the gaming machine 1 is cut off by a backup power supply dedicated to the main control board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine 1 is stopped, the content of the data stored in the main RAM 110c is preserved for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply cannot be supplied because the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged). The

  In order to enable the main RAM 110c to store the written information even when the power to the gaming machine 1 is cut off, the main RAM 101c is not provided with a backup power source dedicated to the main control board, and the main RAM 101c is a nonvolatile flash memory or the like. It may be configured.

  In addition, the power supply board 170 monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1 in order to detect in advance that the power supply is cut off. When the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, the power supply detection signal is output. Output to the main control board 110. Thereby, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a becomes operable, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a becomes inactive state.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby. The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. .

  The sub CPU 120a reads out the program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on the command transmitted from the main control board 110 and the input signals from the first effect button detection switch 35a, the second effect button detection switches 36a to 36e, and the like. In addition to performing arithmetic processing, corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150 based on the processing.

  The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the received fluctuation pattern designation command, and displays the image display device 31 and the voice. Effect data for causing the output device 32, the effect driving device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 to execute a predetermined effect is generated, and the effect data (effect pattern designation command or the like to be described later) is determined. Then, the determined presentation data is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.
For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 39 to be stopped, and the like are stored in the sub ROM 120b. It is remembered. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The payout control board 130 performs payout control of game balls. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 and the launch control board 160 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. ing.

  The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110. Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the game ball storage unit is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the payout device to give a predetermined game ball. Pay out. At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  Further, when the payout CPU inputs a fire signal corresponding to the touch signal from the touch sensor 3a via the fire control board 160, the payout CPU outputs a fire operation signal indicating that the player's fire operation is being performed. To 110.

  The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34. The lamp control board 140 receives presentation data (various commands) from the presentation control board 120, and based on the received presentation data, energization of a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor for operating the presentation drive device 33 is performed. Control, light lighting control in the lighting device for effect 34, and drive control of a motor for changing the light irradiation direction are performed.

  The image control board 150 is connected to the effect control board 120, the image display device 31, and the audio output device 32. The image display device 31 includes a host CPU for performing image display control, a host RAM having a temporary storage area functioning as a work area for the host CPU, a host ROM storing a host CPU control processing program, and the like. A CGROM storing image data, a VRAM having a frame buffer for drawing image data, a VDP (Video Display Processor) serving as an image processor, and a sound control circuit for controlling sound are provided.

  The host CPU instructs the image display device 31 to display the image data stored in the CGROM in the VDP based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120. The VDP draws image data stored in the CGROM in the frame buffer of the VRAM based on an instruction from the host CPU. Next, a video signal (RGB signal or the like) is generated based on the image data stored in the display frame buffer in the VRAM, and the generated video signal is output to the liquid crystal display device.

  The sound control circuit includes an audio ROM that stores a large number of audio data. The sound control circuit reads out a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, and the audio output device 32. Audio output control at.

  The launch control board 160 performs launch control of the game ball. The launch control board 160 has a touch sensor 3a and a launch volume 3b connected to the input side, and a launch solenoid 4a and a ball feed solenoid 4b connected to the output side. The firing control board 160 inputs a touch signal from the touch sensor 3a and performs control to energize the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b based on the voltage supplied from the firing volume 3b.

  The touch sensor 3a is provided in the inside of the operation handle 3, and is comprised from the electrostatic capacitance type proximity switch using the change of the electrostatic capacitance by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a outputs a touch signal that permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a to the firing control board 160 (see FIG. 5).

  The launch control board 160 is configured not to launch the game ball 200 into the game area 6 unless a touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a. When the touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a, the launch control board 160 is also touched. A firing signal corresponding to the signal is output.

  The firing volume 3b is provided directly connected to a rotating portion around which the operation handle 3 rotates, and is composed of a variable resistor. The firing volume 3b divides a constant voltage (for example, 5V) applied to the firing volume 3b by a variable resistor, and supplies the divided voltage to the launch control board 160 (the voltage to be supplied to the launch control board 160). Variable). The launch control board 160 energizes the launch solenoid 4a based on the voltage divided by the launch volume 3b, and rotates the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a, thereby playing the game ball 200 in the game. Fire into area 6.

  The launching solenoid 4a is composed of a rotary solenoid, and a launching member 4c is directly connected to the launching solenoid 4a, and the launching member 4c is rotated by rotating the launching solenoid 4a.

  Here, the rotation speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 160. As a result, the number of games played per minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, one game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The ball feed solenoid 4b is composed of a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the tray 40 one by one toward the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In the present embodiment, there are “low probability gaming state” and “high probability gaming state” as states relating to the big hit lottery, and “non-short-time gaming state” as states relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b included in the second starting port 15. And “short-time gaming state”. The state related to the big hit lottery (low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state) and the state related to the pair of movable pieces 15b (non-short-time gaming state, short-time gaming state) can be associated with each other, and are independent. You can also. That means
(1) The case of “low probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”;
(2) “Low probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”
(3) “High probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”
(4) It is possible to provide a case of “high probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”.
Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is a “low probability gaming state” and is set to a “non-short-time gaming state”. Is referred to as a “normal gaming state”.

  In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, the winning probability of the jackpot is, for example, 1 /299.5 refers to a gaming state set low. On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” refers to a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is improved compared to the low probability gaming state, and the jackpot winning probability is set to a high value of 1 / 29.95, for example. . Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to win a jackpot than in the “low probability gaming state”. Note that the low probability gaming state is changed to the high probability gaming state after the jackpot game described later is finished.

  In the present embodiment, the “non-time-saving gaming state” corresponds to the lottery result in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19. A game state in which the variation time of the normal symbol is set as long as 29 seconds, for example, and the opening time of the second start port 15 when winning in the win is set as short as 0.2 seconds, for example. That is, when the game ball passes through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19, the normal symbol lottery is performed and the normal symbol display is performed on the normal symbol display device 22, but the normal symbol is changed. Stop display 29 seconds after the display is started. If the lottery result is a win, the second start port 15 is controlled to open for 0.2 seconds after the stop display of the normal symbol.

  On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the first normal symbol gate 18 or the second normal symbol gate 19, The variation time of the symbol is set to, for example, 3 seconds, which is shorter than the “non-short game state”, and the opening time of the second starting port 15 when winning in the win is, for example, 3.5 seconds. A game state set longer than “state”. Furthermore, in the “non-short game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set as low as 1/65536, for example, and in the “short time game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is, for example, 65535/65536. And set high. Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, when the game ball passes through the first ordinary symbol gate 18 or the second ordinary symbol gate 19 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 15 is controlled to be in an open state. It becomes easy. Thereby, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can advance the game without consuming the game ball.

  In the embodiment, the “short-time gaming state” is set so that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, the opening time of the second start port 15 and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery are more advantageous than the “non-short-time gaming state”. Has been. However, the “short-time gaming state” may be set so that only one of the normal symbol variation time, the opening time of the second start port 15 and the normal symbol lottery win probability is advantageous.

  In addition, since the first normal symbol gate 18 and the second normal symbol gate 19 are provided on the right side of the game area, in the “short-time game state”, the operation handle 3 is largely rotated to play the game with strong launch strength. It is configured to play a game by firing a ball.

(Description of types of jackpot games)
In the present embodiment, there are two types of “big hit games”: a “long win game” that opens the big winning opening 16 with a long opening time and a “short win game” that opens the big winning opening 16 with a short opening time; One type of “small hit game” is provided. In the present embodiment, the “big hit game” and the “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

In the present embodiment, “long win game” refers to a special game that is executed after winning a big hit in the jackpot lottery and determining a special symbol corresponding to the long jackpot.
In this long hit game, a round game in which the special winning opening 16 is opened is performed, for example, a total of 15 times. The maximum opening time of the grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set to a maximum of 29 seconds, and if a specified number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the big prize opening 16 during this period, one round game will be performed. End. That is, “game per long” is a special game that allows a player to acquire a large number of prize balls because a game ball enters the big winning opening 16 and the player can acquire a prize ball corresponding to the winning ball. .

  Further, since the special winning opening 16 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, in the case of "game per long game", the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated to launch the game ball with a strong launch intensity. It is configured to play a game.

In the present embodiment, the “short win game” refers to a special game that is executed after winning a big win and determining a special symbol corresponding to the short win in the big win lottery.
In this short win game, for example, a total of 15 round games in which the special winning opening 16 is opened are performed. The maximum opening time of the special winning opening 16 in each round game is set to a maximum of 0.052 seconds, which is shorter than the launch time (about 0.6 seconds) in which one game ball is launched. During this time, when a specified number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the big prize opening 16, one round game is finished. However, since the opening time of the big prize opening 16 is extremely short as described above, Rarely enters the ball. In other words, the “short win game” is a special game in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball unlike the “long win game”.

In the present embodiment, the “small hit game” refers to a special game that is executed when a big win is won in the big hit lottery.
In the “small winning game”, the big prize opening 16 is opened 15 times as in the “short winning game”. The opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the big winning opening 16 at this time are the same as the above “short win game”, or the player cannot discriminate between “small win game” and “short win game” or It is set to approximate the difficulty level.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Large winning lottery determination table)
FIG. 6A-1 and FIG. 6A-2 are conceptual diagrams of a jackpot determination table used for jackpot lottery.
FIG. 6 (a-1) is a conceptual diagram of a jackpot determination table that is referred to when a game ball enters the first start port 14, and FIG. 6 (a-2) is a second view. It is a conceptual diagram of a jackpot determination table that is referred to when a game ball enters the start port 15 as an opportunity. In the tables of FIG. 6A-1 and FIG. 6A-2, the jackpot probabilities determined to be jackpots are the same, though the winning probabilities for the jackpots are different.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 (a-1) and 6 (a-2), in the jackpot determination table, a gaming state (probability gaming state), a special symbol determination random number value, and a lottery result of the jackpot lottery correspond. It is attached.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 6 (a-1) or FIG. 6 (a-2), and determines whether or not the jackpot is based on the current gaming state and the acquired special symbol determination random value. It is judged whether it is “small hit” or “lost”.

For example, according to the jackpot determination table triggered by the game ball entering the first start port 14 shown in FIG. 6A-1, “7” and “8” are indicated when the game state is low probability. Two special symbol determination random numbers are determined to be jackpots. On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be big hits. In addition, according to the jackpot determination table triggered by the game ball entering the first start port 14 shown in FIG. 6A-1, whether the game is in the low probability game state or the high probability game state. When the special symbol determination random number values are four special symbol determination random number values of “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, “small hit” is determined. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state is 1 / 299.5, and in the high probability gaming state, the big hit The probability to be determined is 10 times up to 1 / 29.9. Further, when a game ball enters the first start port 14, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state. It becomes.

(Normal symbol lottery determination table)
FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a conceptual diagram of a hit determination table used for normal symbol lottery.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, in the hit determination table, a gaming state (presence / absence of short-time gaming state), a normal symbol determination random value, and a determination result of a normal symbol lottery are associated.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the winning determination table shown in FIG. 6B, and determines whether it is “winning” or “lost” based on the current gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.

For example, according to the winning determination table shown in FIG. 6 (b), it is determined that one specific normal symbol random number for determining “0” is a winning when in the non-time-saving gaming state. On the other hand, when in the short-time gaming state, it is determined that 65535 specific random symbols for determining normal symbols from “0” to “65534” are hit. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is 0 to 65535, the probability of being determined to be hit in the non-short-time gaming state is 1/65536, and the probability of being determined to be winning in the time-short gaming state is 65535/65536 = 1 / 1.00002.

(Design determination table)
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a conceptual diagram of a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the jackpot lottery.
FIG. 7A is a conceptual diagram of a symbol determination table that is referred to for determining a stop symbol of a special symbol at the time of a big win, and FIG. 7B is a stop symbol of a special symbol at a small hit. FIG. 7C is a conceptual diagram of the symbol determination table referred to in order to determine the stop symbol of the special symbol at the time of losing.

  As shown in FIG. 7 (a), the symbol determination table for the jackpot includes a special symbol display device type (a type of a start port where a game ball has won) and a game ball in the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. Is associated with a jackpot symbol random value acquired when the ball enters.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7B, the symbol determination table in the small hit is acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 and the type of the special symbol display device. Are associated with random numbers for small hitting symbols.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7C, the symbol determination table in the loss is associated with the type of the special symbol display device. As shown in FIG. 7C, in the symbol determination table for the loss, a random symbol value for the loss symbol may be provided and associated with the random value for the loss symbol.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7, and determines the special symbol type (stop symbol data) based on the type of the special symbol display device, the jackpot symbol random number, and the like.

  For example, the first special symbol display device refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7A in the case of a jackpot, and if the acquired jackpot symbol random number value is “55”, the stop symbol data is “03”. ”(Special symbol 3 (first positive variation jackpot 3)) is determined. Further, in the first special symbol display device, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7B is referred to at the time of the small hit, and if the acquired random number value for the small hit symbol is “50”, as the stopped symbol data “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)) is determined. In case of loss, “00” (special symbol 0 (lost)) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to any random number value.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte DATA indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of data.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot game (see FIG. 8) and the jackpot game type (see FIGS. 9 and 10) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data). It can be said that the type of special symbol determines the gaming state after the jackpot game and the type of jackpot game.

(Set data table at end of jackpot game)
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of a jackpot game end setting data table for determining a game state after the jackpot game ends.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the big hit game end setting data table includes special symbol stop symbol data, a game state buffer, a short-time game state, a short-time game number (J), a probability game state, and a high-probability game number. (X) is associated.

  Here, the “gaming state buffer” is information indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big hit. The gaming state includes a combination of a short-time gaming state (or a non-short-time gaming state) and a high probability gaming state (or low probability gaming state).

  Specifically, if the gaming state buffer is “00H”, it indicates the gaming state information of the low-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are not set. If the gaming state buffer is “01H”, the short-time gaming flag is not set, but the high-probability gaming flag indicates gaming state information of the high-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state that are set. If the gaming state buffer is “02H”, it indicates gaming state information of a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set but the high-probability gaming flag is not set. If the game state buffer is “03H”, it indicates the game state information of the high-probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are set.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot game end setting data table shown in FIG. 8, and based on the stop symbol data of the special symbol and the game state buffer, the short-time game state, the short-time number of times (J), and the probability game state Then, the high probability game number (X) is determined.

  The feature of the jackpot game end setting data table shown in FIG. 8 is that even if it is the stop symbol data of the same special symbol, based on the information stored in the game state buffer (game state at the time of winning the jackpot), It is possible to vary the flag setting and the number of times (J).

Specifically, if the stop symbol data of the special symbol is stop symbol data 03 (corresponding to special symbol 3, first probability variation big hit 3), it indicates a gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is not set in the gaming state buffer. If the information (00H or 01H) is stored, the hour / short game flag is not set after the end of the jackpot, and the hour / times (J) is also set to zero. On the other hand, if information (02H or 03H) indicating a gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set is stored in the gaming state buffer, the number of shorting times (J) is set to 10,000 after the jackpot game ends.
In addition, when the stop symbol data of the special symbol is the stop symbol data 03 (corresponding to the special symbol 3, the first probability variation big hit 3), regarding the high probability game flag, the high probability game number (X), and the short-time game flag, Regardless of the information stored in the game state buffer, after the jackpot game ends, the high probability game flag is set, the high probability game number (X) is set to 10,000 times, and the short-time game flag is set.
Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed according to the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, and the player can be interested in the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot.

(Special electric accessory operation mode determination table)
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of the special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the special winning opening opening mode determining table. As will be described later, since the jackpot game is executed based on the jackpot opening mode determination table, it can be said that the jackpot opening mode determination table indicates the type of jackpot game. In the present embodiment, “table” is appropriately omitted and described as “TBL”.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the special electric accessory operating mode determination table is associated with the special symbol stop symbol data and the special winning opening opening mode determination table.

  The main CPU 110a refers to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, and determines the special winning opening opening mode determination table based on the special symbol stop symbol data.

Further, as a feature of the special electric accessory actuating mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, in the second special symbol display device 21 that is actuated when a game ball enters the second starting port 15, “short hit TBL "Is not determined.
This is because, in the non-short-time gaming state, almost no game ball enters the second start opening 15 but if a short hit is determined when a game ball enters the second start opening 15, This is because even if the short-time gaming state is provided, the player's willingness to play may be reduced. In the present embodiment, the second special symbol display device 21 is configured not to determine “short hit TBL”, but the second special symbol display device 21 also determines “short hit TBL”. You may comprise. However, in the case of determining “short hit TBL” in the second special symbol display device 21, compared to the first special symbol display device 20 that is activated when a game ball enters the first start port 14, It is desirable that the “short TBL” is not easily determined.

(Large winning opening open mode decision table)
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a conceptual diagram of the big prize opening opening manner determination table determined in FIG. 9, and the opening / closing conditions of the big winning opening / closing door 16b are decided by the big prize opening opening manner determination table.
FIG. 10 (a) is a jackpot opening style determination table group for jackpots that is referred to in the jackpot game, and is composed of a TBL per long and a TBL per short. FIG. 10B shows a big winning opening opening determination table for small hits determined at the small hit game.

  The big winning opening opening mode determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 10 (a) is a rule indicating the maximum number of round games (R) in one jackpot game and the maximum number of winning prizes in the big winning slot in one round. The number, the start interval time from the start of the jackpot game to the execution of the first round game, the opening time of the big winning opening of each round game, and from the end of one round game to the execution of the next round game The closing interval time of the big prize opening is associated with the end interval time from the end of the last round game to the end of the big hit game.

  On the other hand, in the big winning opening opening determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 10 (b), the maximum number of times of opening (K) in one small hit game and the big winning in one small hit game are shown. The specified number indicating the maximum number of winnings to the mouth, the start interval time from the start of the small hit game to the opening of the first winning opening, the opening time of the large winning opening at each opening number, and the large at each opening number The closing time of the winning opening is associated with the end interval time from the end of the closing time of the last large winning opening until the end of the small hit game.

  The main CPU 110a executes a long hit game based on the long hit TBL, executes a short hit game based on the short hit TBL, and executes a small hit game based on the small hit TBL.

  Here, according to the long hit TBL of the big winning opening opening determination mode table for jackpot shown in FIG. 10A, the big winning opening 16 is operated on the right side of the game area 6 by operating the large winning opening / closing door 16b. Can be released up to 29 seconds per round. However, if the specified number (9) of game balls wins the grand prize opening 16 before the opening time of 29 seconds elapses, the operation of the big prize opening / closing door 16b is finished and one round of the game is finished. Will do.

Also, the short win TBL of the jackpot big winning opening release mode determination table shown in FIG. 10 (a) and the small winning big winning opening release mode determination table of FIG. 10 (b) are the maximum number of round games (R ), The maximum number of times open (K), the closing interval time, and the closing time of the big winning opening at each opening number, the same big winning opening 16 performs the same opening / closing operation (the big winning opening 16 is 0). .052 seconds of opening and 2.0 seconds of closing are repeated 15 times), and the player cannot determine whether it is a short hit game or a small hit game based on appearance.
Thereby, the pleasure which makes a player guess whether it is a short hit game or a small hit game can be given.

  In this embodiment, the opening time of the short hit game and the opening time of the small hit game are set to exactly the same opening time (0.052 seconds), and the closing time of the short hit game and the closing time of the small hit game are Were set to exactly the same closing time (2 seconds). However, a time difference in which the player cannot determine whether the game is a short hit game or a small hit game may be provided without setting the exact same time.

In addition, the short opening time (0.052 seconds) of the “short hit game” and the “small hit game” and the short opening time (0.052 seconds) of the first half of the “game per development” are as described above. Is shorter than the time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one is fired, it is difficult to win the big prize opening 16 even if the big prize opening / closing door 16b is activated. For this reason, it can be said that the opening mode of “short win game” and “small hit game” and the opening mode of the first half of “development game” are “unfavorable opening mode”.
On the other hand, the long release time of “game per long” (29 seconds) and the long release time of the second half of “game per development” (29 seconds) are the time for one game ball to be fired (about 0.6 seconds) Longer than that, it can be said to be an “advantageous opening mode”.

  In addition, according to the big winning opening opening mode determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 10A, the maximum number of round games (R) at the time of all jackpots is the same regardless of long hit games or short win games. The number of times is set. For this reason, there is no need to provide a display device for identifying the number of round games as in the prior art.

  Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  In step S10, the main CPU 110a controls the protection of the main RAM 110c, initializes the serial communication port, activates a hard random number, initializes the watchdog timer, sets the firing signal, initializes the peripheral devices of the CPU, and sets various timer counters. Initialization processing such as initial setting and initial setting of various flags is performed.

In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an update process of adding 1 to the reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.
If the added random value exceeds the maximum value, the random value is returned to zero. About this process, the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, the initial random number value for normal symbol determination, the random number value for special symbol determination, the random number for jackpot symbol, which will be described later The same applies to numerical values and random numbers for normal symbol determination.

In step S30, the main CPU 110a adds 1 to each of the random numbers of the special symbol determination initial random number value, the big hit symbol initial random number value, the small hit symbol initial value random value, and the normal symbol determination initial random number value. Update the initial random number to be updated.
As will be described later, the initial random number value for special symbol determination is replaced as the initial value of the random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol is replaced as the initial value of the random value for jackpot symbol, and the small hit symbol The initial value random number value is replaced as the initial value of the small winning design random number value, and the normal symbol determining initial random number value is replaced as the initial value of the normal symbol determining random number value.

  Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area.

In step S110, the main CPU 110a performs time control processing for updating various timer counters. Specifically, 1 is subtracted from the release timer counter, special symbol time counter, special game timer counter, normal symbol time counter, general electricity open time counter, start interval timer counter, start time timer counter, end interval timer counter Perform the process.
Further, in the present embodiment, when the second hold release flag is set in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c, if one release timer counter = 0, the second hold release from the hold release flag storage area Performs processing to clear the flag. The details of the second hold release flag will be described later.

In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs a random number update process for updating the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value.
Specifically, processing is performed by adding 1 to each random number value and a random number counter corresponding to each random number value and updating it. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value in the random number range (when the random number counter makes one round), the random number counter is returned to 0, and the random number value corresponding to the random number counter that has been returned to 0 is The initial value corresponding to the random number value is replaced with a new random number value and updated again.

  In step S130, as in step S30, the main CPU 110a performs initial random number value update processing for updating by adding 1 to the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Do.

  In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing.

  In this input control process, the main CPU 110a includes the general winning opening detection switch 12a, the large winning opening detection switch 16a, the first starting opening detection switch 14a, the second starting opening detection switch 15a, the first gate detection switch 18a, and the second gate. It is determined whether or not there is an input to the various switches of the detection switch 19a, the hold release sensor 17a, and the hold ball detection sensor 17b. If there is an input, an input control process for setting predetermined data is performed. This input control process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special drawing special electric control process for performing a jackpot lottery, opening / closing control of the special winning opening 16 (control of special electric accessories), and game state control. The details of the special figure special electric control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S <b> 400, the main CPU 110 a performs a normal / normal power control process for performing the normal symbol lottery and the opening / closing control of the second start port 15 (control of the normal electric accessory).

  Specifically, it is first determined whether or not one or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area, and one or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated. If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area, it is in the normal symbol hold storage area The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.

  Then, referring to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 6B, whether or not the normal symbol determination random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Processing to determine is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the normal symbol variation, and when the normal symbol variation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery is displayed. If the random number value for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven, and the second start opening 15 is controlled to be opened for a predetermined opening time. Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to be in an open state for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to be opened for 3.5 seconds.

  In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process.

  In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a performs serial data of external information, start port opening / closing solenoid data, big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, hold release solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, hold indicator data data. Perform the creation process. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing.
In this output control process, a process of outputting the data created in S600 and transmitting a command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a.

(Input control processing of main control board)
The input control process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a general winning opening detection switch input process.
In this general winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a. If there is no input of a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, the process proceeds to the next step. When a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, predetermined data is added to and updated in the winning ball counter for the general winning opening, and then the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S220, the main CPU 110a performs a special winning opening detection switch input process.
In this special winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the special winning opening detection switch 16a. If there is no detection signal input from the big prize opening detection switch 16a, the process proceeds to the next step. When a detection signal is input from the big prize opening detection switch 16a, the prize ball counter for the big prize opening is updated by adding predetermined data, and the game balls won in the big prize opening 16 are counted. After adding 1 to the number (C) storage area of the big winning mouth and updating it, the processing is moved to the next step.

  In step S230, the main CPU 110a performs a first start port detection switch input process.

  In the first start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a. If no detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, the process proceeds to the next step. When a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the first start port. If the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, the special symbol determination random number value, The jackpot symbol random number value, the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value are acquired, and the obtained various random number values are stored in a predetermined storage unit (the 0th storage unit to the second storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area. (4 storage unit), and the process proceeds to the next step.

  In addition, the acquired various random number values are stored in the storage unit corresponding to the smallest number among the predetermined storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area, in which the random number values are not yet stored. Will be remembered. That is, in the present embodiment, various random values are stored and processed by FIFO (First In, First Out). The same applies to the predetermined storage unit in the second special symbol random number storage area in the next second start port detection switch input process and the predetermined storage unit in the normal symbol hold storage area in the gate detection switch input process. is there.

  In step S240, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port detection switch input process.

  In the second start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a. If there is no detection signal input from the second start port detection switch 15a, the process proceeds to the next step. When a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the second start port. If the data set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, The jackpot symbol random number value, the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value are acquired, and the obtained random number values are stored in a predetermined storage unit (the 0th storage unit to the second storage unit) in the second special symbol random number storage area. (4 storage unit), and the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S250, the main CPU 110a performs gate detection switch input processing.
In the gate detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first gate detection switch 18a or the second gate detection switch 19a. If no detection signal is input from the first gate detection switch 18a or the second gate detection switch 19a, the process proceeds to the next step. When a detection signal is input from the first gate detection switch 18a or the second gate detection switch 19a, a gate passage designation command is generated, and the generated gate passage designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. . Next, if the data set in the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area is less than 4, the normal gate hold count ((1) is not distinguished between the first gate detection switch 18a and the second gate detection switch 19a). F) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain the normal symbol determination random value, and store the acquired normal symbol determination random value in the predetermined symbol storage area (the 0th storage unit to the fourth storage) The current input control process is terminated.

  In step S260, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the game ball 200 is held in the holding device 10 by the holding ball detection sensors 17b1 to 17b4, and identifies whether or not the game ball is held in the holding device 10. A holding ball detection sensor input process for setting data to be performed is performed. Details of the holding ball detection sensor input process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S270, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the player's release operation has been performed by the hold release sensor 17a, and if the player's release operation is performed and the first specific condition is satisfied (time reduction) When in the gaming state, hold release sensor input processing for setting data for dropping the game ball 200 held in the holding device 10 is performed. The hold release sensor input process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  In step S280, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the firing operation signal is input via the payout control board 130, inputs the firing operation signal, and the second specific condition is satisfied. (If it is a non-short game state), a firing operation signal input process for setting data for dropping the game ball 200 held in the holding device 10 is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Main balloting sensor detection process on the main control board)
The holding ball detection sensor input process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S260-1, the main CPU 110a sets 4 to the N counter of the main RAM 110c.

  The “N counter” is data for designating any one of the first reserved ball detection sensor 17b1 to the fourth reserved ball detection sensor 17b4 as a determination target in the current held ball detection sensor input process. is there. Specifically, N counter = 4 designates the fourth holding ball detection sensor 17b4 as a determination target, N counter = 3 specifies the third holding ball detection sensor 17b3 as a determination target, and N Counter = 2 designates the second reserved ball detection sensor 17b2 as a determination target, and N counter = 1 designates the first reservation ball detection sensor 17b1 as a determination target.

In step S260-2, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal is input from the Nth reserved ball detection sensor 17bN corresponding to the N counter.
When the main CPU 110a determines that the detection signal is input from the Nth reserved ball detection sensor 17bN, the main CPU 110a shifts the process to step S260-3, and determines that the detection signal is not input from the Nth reserved ball detection sensor 17bN. The process moves to step S260-4.

In step S260-3, the main CPU 110a sets the held flag in the Nth held flag storage area of the main RAM 110c corresponding to the Nth held ball detection sensor 17bN, and inputs the current held ball detection sensor. The process ends.
Specifically, if N counter = 4, the held flag is set in the fourth held flag storage area, and if N counter = 3, the held flag is set in the third held flag storage area. If the counter = 2, the reserved flag is set in the second reserved flag storage area, and if the N counter = 1, the reserved flag is set in the first reserved flag storage area.

  In step S260-4, the main CPU 110a clears (resets) the held flag from the Nth held flag storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S260-5, the main CPU 110a substitutes a counter obtained by subtracting 1 from the current N counter. That is, 1 is subtracted from the N counter of the main RAM 110c and updated.

In step S260-6, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the N counter of the main RAM 110c = 0.
When determining that N counter = 0, the main CPU 110a ends the current holding ball detection sensor input process. When determining that N counter = 0 is not satisfied, the main CPU 110a shifts the process to step S260-2.

According to the hold ball detection sensor input process as described above, the main CPU 110a performs the fourth hold ball detection sensor 17b4, the third hold ball detection sensor 17b3, the second hold ball detection sensor 17b2, and the first hold ball. In the order of the detection sensor 17b1, it is determined whether or not a detection signal from the sensor is input. When the detection signal is input, the Nth hold corresponding to the hold ball detection sensor 17bN that has output the detection signal. The held flag is set only in the completed flag storage area. That is, when four game balls 200 are held in the holding device 10, the held flag is set only in the fourth held flag storage area, and three game balls 200 are held in the holding device 10. If the game is held, the held flag is set only in the third held flag storage area, and if two game balls 200 are held in the holding device 10, only the second held flag storage area is stored. When the held flag is set and one game ball 200 is held in the holding device 10, the held flag is set only in the first held flag storage area. Further, when the game ball 200 is not held in the holding device 10, the held flag is not set in all of the first held flag storage area to the fourth held flag storage area.
Thereby, it is possible to identify how many game balls 200 are held in the holding device 10 by referring only to the held flag storage area in which the held flag is set.

(Main control board hold release sensor input processing)
The hold release sensor input process will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S270-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a detection signal is input from the hold release sensor 17a.
If the main CPU 110a determines that a detection signal is input from the hold release sensor 17a, the process proceeds to step S270-2. If the main CPU 110a determines that no detection signal is input from the hold release sensor 17a, the main CPU 110a shifts the process to step S270-4. .

In step S270-2, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the current gaming state is the time-saving gaming state. More specifically, it is determined whether or not the short time game flag is set by referring to the short time game flag storage area of the main RAM 110c.
If the main CPU 110a determines that it is in the short-time gaming state, it moves the process to step S270-3, and if it determines that it is not in the short-time gaming state, it moves the process to step S270-4.

  In step S270-3, the main CPU 110a sets the first hold release flag in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. That is, when the detection signal is input from the hold release sensor 17a in the short-time game state, the release operation in which the game ball holding unit 10a moves from the protruding position to the immersive position is performed.

  Here, the “first hold release flag” is data for driving the hold release solenoid 10s. As will be described later, when the first hold release flag is set, a drive signal for driving the hold release solenoid 10s is output, and the game ball holding unit 10a performs a release operation of moving from the protruding position to the immersive position. Become.

As will be described later, the “second hold release flag” and the “third hold release flag” are also set in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. It is data having the same function for driving the hold release solenoid 10s, and the conditions set and cleared by the respective hold release flags are different.
If any one of the first to third hold release flags is set in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c, the game ball holding unit 10a is moved or held to the immersive position, and the main RAM 110c If any of the first to third hold release flags is not set in the hold release flag storage area, the game ball holding unit 10a is moved or held at the protruding position.

  In step S270-4, the main CPU 110a clears the first hold release flag in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. Therefore, if the second hold release flag or the third hold release flag is not set in the hold release flag storage area, the game ball holding unit 10a is moved or held at the protruding position.

  According to the hold release sensor input process as described above, if the release operation of the player is detected by the hold release sensor 17a and the game is in the short-time gaming state, the hold of the game ball 200 by the hold device 10 is released, and the hold is made. The played game ball falls toward the second normal symbol gate 19.

  In the present embodiment, even if the release operation of the player is detected by the hold release sensor 17a, it is configured so that the hold of the game ball 200 by the hold device 10 is not released unless it is in the time-saving game state. The holding of the game ball 200 by the holding device 10 may be released only when the release operation of the player is detected by the hold releasing sensor 17a.

(Main control board launch operation signal input processing)
The firing operation signal input process will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S280-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a firing operation signal has been input via the payout control board 130.
If the main CPU 110a determines that a firing operation signal has been input, the process proceeds to step S280-2. If the main CPU 110a determines that a firing operation signal has not been input, the process proceeds to step S280-10.

  In step S280-2, the main CPU 110a refers to the normal symbol hold count (F) storage area of the main RAM 110c, and loads the normal symbol hold count (F).

  In step S280-3, the main CPU 110a refers to the reserved flag storage area of the main RAM 110c in which the held flag is set, and calculates the number (H) of held game balls 200 held in the holding device 10. To do.

  In step S280-4, the main CPU 110a adds the normal symbol hold number (F) and the hold number (H) to calculate the total hold number (G).

In step S280-5, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the total reserved number (G) is 4 or more.
When determining that the total reserved number (G) is 4 or more, the main CPU 110a moves the process to step S280-6, and when determining that the total reserved number (G) is not 4 or more, the main CPU 110a moves the process to step S280-8. .

  In step S280-6, the main CPU 110a sets a second hold release flag in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. That is, if the firing operation signal is input when the total number of retained balls (G) is 4 or more, a release operation in which the game ball retaining unit 10a moves from the protruding position to the immersive position is performed.

  In step S280-7, the main CPU 110a sets a counter value corresponding to 0.5 seconds to the one release timer counter of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S110 (see FIG. 12), the one release timer counter is subtracted and updated. When one release timer counter = 0, the second hold release flag is cleared from the hold release flag storage area. Will be.

  As a result, the upper limit number of the normal symbol holding number (F) is originally set to four, but the holding device 10 can prevent the right of the normal symbol lottery from substantially exceeding four. .

In step S280-8, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the current gaming state is the time-saving gaming state. More specifically, it is determined whether or not the short time game flag is set by referring to the short time game flag storage area of the main RAM 110c.
If the main CPU 110a determines that it is in the short-time gaming state, it moves the process to step S280-10, and if it determines that it is not in the short-time gaming state, it moves the process to step S270-9.

  In step S280-9, the main CPU 110a sets a third hold release flag in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. In other words, when a firing operation signal is input in the non-time-saving gaming state, the game ball holding unit 10a moves from the protruding position to the immersive position, and the immersive position is continuously held.

  In step S280-10, the main CPU 110a clears the third hold release flag in the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c. Therefore, if the first hold release flag or the second hold release flag is not set in the hold release flag storage area, the game ball holding unit 10a is moved or held at the protruding position.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
With reference to FIG. 17, the special figure special power control process of the main control board 110 will be described.

First, in step S301, the value of the special figure special electricity processing data is loaded, the branch address is referred to from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302, and if the special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process (step The process proceeds to S310). If the special symbol special power processing data = 1, the process proceeds to the special symbol variation processing (step S320). If the special symbol special power processing data = 2, the special symbol stop processing (step S330) is performed. If special figure special processing data = 3, the process moves to the small hit game process (step S340), and if special figure special electric process data = 4, the process moves to the big hit game process (step S350). If special electric processing data = 5, the processing is shifted to the big hit game ending processing (step S360).
This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed. .

  In the special symbol memory determination process in step S310, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. Specifically, the specific contents of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed. If the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the special symbol suspension process of the next step S330. Process to move to. Specifically, the specific contents of the special symbol variation process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is “big hit symbol”, “small bonus symbol”, or “losing symbol”, and stops. Processing such as setting of special figure special electricity processing data based on the displayed special symbol, changing of the game state, etc. Specifically, the specific contents of the special symbol stop process will be described with reference to FIG.

In the small hit game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a performs a process of controlling the small hit.
Specifically, referring to the special electric accessory operation mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, first, based on the type of small winning symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S314, which will be described later, the small winning big prize opening An opening mode determination table (small hit TBL) is determined. Next, in order to execute the determined small hit opening mode, the big winning opening opening mode determination table shown in FIG. 10B is referred to, and the small hitting opening time is set in the special game timer counter. Driving data for the winning opening / closing solenoid 16c is output to open the large winning opening / closing door 16b. At this time, 1 is added to the number-of-releases (K) storage area.
When the small hit opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the output of the driving data of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 16c is stopped and the special winning opening / closing door 16b is closed. The opening / closing control of the big prize opening / closing door 16b is repeated 15 times.
Then, the opening / closing control of the special prize opening / closing door 16b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the special prize opening 16 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the number of entries in the special prize opening (C). = 9), in order to finish the small hit game, the output of the driving data of the large winning opening / closing solenoid 16c is stopped, and the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning opening balls (C) are stored in the storage area. The stored data is cleared, and the special symbol special power processing data = 3 is set to special special symbol special processing data = 0 to prepare for moving to the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine, and the small hit game processing is completed. .

In the jackpot game process of step S350, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, referring to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 9, first, based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S314, which will be described later, the jackpot big winning opening opening mode Determine the decision table (TBL per long, TBL per short). Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot release mode, referring to the big winning opening opening mode determination table shown in FIG. 10 (a), the opening time corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter. Then, the drive data of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 16c is output to open the special winning opening / closing door 16b. At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.
When a specified number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the grand prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), the big prize is won. The output of the driving data of the mouth opening / closing solenoid 16c is stopped, and the special winning opening opening / closing door 16b is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.
When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 4 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.

  In the big hit game ending process in step S360, the main CPU 110a determines either the high probability game state or the low probability game state, and the game state of either the short-time game state or the non-short-time game state. Perform the decision process. When the gaming state is determined, the process moves to the special symbol memory determination process in step S310 again. Specifically, the specific contents of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110.

First, in step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area.
If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the current special symbol storage determination process If one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the process proceeds to step S312.

  In step S312, the main CPU 110a stores various random number values stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit of the first special symbol random number storage area or the second special symbol random number storage area in the previous storage unit. Shift processing for shifting is performed.

In this shift process, when 1 or more data is set only in the first special symbol holding number (U1) storage area, the first special symbol holding number (U1) storage area is subtracted 1 and then The various random number values stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit in the one special symbol random value storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Similarly, when 1 or more data is set only in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit.
Further, when one or more data is set in both the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area and the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area, the second special symbol hold number (U2) After subtracting 1 from the value stored in the storage area, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. Let That is, the random value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area.

  In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is preferentially shifted (digested) over the first special symbol random value storage area. The first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the first start opening 14 and the second start opening 15), or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted to the second special symbol. The shift may be performed with priority over the storage area.

  In step S313, the main CPU 110a determines whether the special symbol determination random number value shifted to the 0th storage unit in step S312 is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit”. A jackpot determination process is performed to determine whether or not.

In this jackpot determination process, when various random numbers stored in the first special symbol random value storage area are shifted in step S312, the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. Whether the special symbol determination random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.
When various random numbers stored in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted in step S312, the second special symbol is referred to with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the random number value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit”. .

  In step S314, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed.

In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S313), the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7A is stored in the 0th storage unit. The jackpot symbol (special symbol 1 to special symbol 6) is determined based on the random number value for the jackpot symbol. In addition, when it is determined as “small hit” in the big hit determination process (step S313), with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 7B, a small hit symbol (special symbol A, special symbol B) To decide. When it is determined that the game is “lost” in the jackpot determination process (step S313), the lost symbol (special symbol 0) is determined with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG.
Then, stop symbol data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

In step S315, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing.
Specifically, with reference to a variation pattern determination table (not shown) stored in the main ROM 110b, a reach determination random number value and a special figure variation random value (so-called jackpot lottery lottery) stored in the 0th storage unit Based on the result, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

  Further, in this variation time determination process, the main CPU 110a performs a variation pattern designation command for a special symbol (a variation pattern designation command for the first special symbol or a variation pattern designation for the second special symbol) corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol. Command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. That is, it can be said that the special symbol variation pattern and the special symbol variation pattern designation command indicate the result of the jackpot lottery and the variation time of the special symbol.

  In step S316, the main CPU 110a displays the special symbol variation display (LED blinking) on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 corresponding to the special symbol random value storage area shifted in step S312. ) Is set in a predetermined processing area. As a result, when the variable display data is set in the predetermined processing area, the LED lighting / extinguishing data is appropriately created in step S600, and the created data is output in step S700. Variation display of the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.

  In step S317, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special electricity processing data = 0 to the special symbol special electric treatment data = 1, prepares to move to the special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.

(Special design variation processing of main control board)
The special symbol variation process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S320-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the fluctuation time set in step S317 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0). As a result, if it is determined that the variation time has not elapsed, the special symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

  If the main CPU 110a determines in step S320-2 that the set time has elapsed, the special symbol set in step S314 is transferred to the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Stop symbol data for stop display is set in a predetermined processing area. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.

  In step S320-3, the main CPU 110a sets a symbol determination command in the effect transmission data storage area.

  In step S320-4, when the main CPU 110a starts the special symbol stop display as described above, the main CPU 110a sets the symbol stop time (0.5 seconds = 125 counter) in the special symbol time counter. The special symbol time counter is updated by subtracting 1 every 4 ms in S110.

  In step S320-5, the main CPU 110a sets 2 to the special symbol special electric processing data, shifts the processing to the special symbol stop processing shown in FIG. 20, and ends the special symbol variation processing.

(Special design stop processing for main control board)
The special symbol stop process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S330-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the symbol stop time set in step S320-4 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol stop time has not elapsed, the special symbol stop process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

In step S330-2, the main CPU 110a performs time-short game end determination processing for subtracting the time-shortage number (J) or clearing the time-short game flag.
In this time-short game end determination process, it is determined whether or not the time-short game flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area, and if the flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area, the time-saving count (J) is stored. It is updated by subtracting 1 from the short time count (J) stored in the area, and it is determined whether or not the new short time count (J) is “0”. As a result, when the number of time reduction (J) is “0”, the time reduction game flag set in the time reduction game flag storage area is cleared, and when the number of time reduction (J) is not “0”, the time reduction The process moves to step S330-3 while the short-time game flag stored in the game flag storage area is set. On the other hand, if the time-saving game flag is not set in the time-saving game flag storage area, the processing is directly moved to step S330-3.

In step S330-3, the main CPU 110a performs a high probability game end determination process of subtracting the high probability game count (X) or clearing the high probability game flag.
In this high probability game end determination process, it is determined whether or not a high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, and if the high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, 1 is subtracted from the high probability game number (X) stored in the high probability game number (X) storage area and updated to determine whether the new high probability game number (X) is “0”. . As a result, when the high probability game count (X) is “0”, the high probability game flag stored in the high probability game flag storage area is cleared and the high probability game count (X) is “0”. If not, the process proceeds to step S330-4 while the high probability game flag stored in the high probability game flag storage area is set. On the other hand, if the high-probability game flag is not set in the high-probability game flag storage area, the process proceeds to step S330-4.

  In step S330-4, the main CPU 110a confirms the current gaming state and sets a gaming state designation command in the effect transmission data storage area.

  In step S330-5, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the stop symbol data stored in the stop symbol data storage area is a jackpot symbol (stop symbol data = 01 to 06?). If it is determined that the jackpot symbol is determined, the process proceeds to step S330-9. If the symbol is not determined to be a jackpot symbol, the process proceeds to step S330-6.

  In step S330-6, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the stop symbol data stored in the stop symbol data storage area is of a small hit symbol (stop symbol data = 07, 08?). If it is determined that the symbol is a small hit symbol, the process proceeds to step S330-8. If it is not determined to be a small symbol, the process proceeds to step S330-7.

  In step S330-7, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special electric processing data = 0, prepares to move to the special symbol memory determination processing shown in FIG. 18, and ends the special symbol stop processing of this time.

  In step S330-8, the main CPU 110a sets special figure special electric processing data = 3, prepares to move to the small hit game process shown in step S340, and ends the special symbol stop process of this time.

  In step S330-9, the main CPU 110a stores the game state data (00H to 03H) stored in the game state storage area of the main RAM 110c in the game state buffer of the main RAM 110c.

  In step S330-10, the main CPU 110a resets the gaming state and the number of time reductions. Specifically, the data stored in the high probability game flag storage area, the high probability game count (X) storage area, the short time game flag storage area, and the short time count (J) storage area is cleared.

  In step S330-11, the main CPU 110a sets 4 in the special figure special electric processing data, prepares for shifting to the big hit game process shown in step S350, and ends the special symbol stop process of this time.

(Main control board jackpot game end processing)
The jackpot game end process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S360-1, the main CPU 110a loads the stop symbol data set in the stop symbol data storage area and the game information in the game state buffer.

In step S360-2, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 8, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in S360-1 and the game information in the game state buffer, the main CPU 110a increases Processing for determining whether or not to set a high probability flag in the probability game flag storage area is performed.
For example, if the stop symbol data is “03”, the high probability flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area.

In step S360-3, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 8, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in S360-1 and the gaming information in the gaming state buffer, the high probability gaming state. A predetermined number of times is set in the remaining number of fluctuations (X) storage area.
For example, if the stop symbol data is “03”, 10000 is set in the remaining fluctuation count (X) storage area of the high probability gaming state.

In step S360-4, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 8, and stores the short-time game flag based on the stop symbol data loaded in S360-1 and the game information in the game state buffer. Whether or not to set the short-time game flag in the area is processed.
For example, when the stop symbol data is “03”, when the game status buffer is 00H or 01H, the time-saving game flag is not set in the time-saving game flag storage area, and when the game status buffer is 02H or 03H, the time-saving is set. A time-short game flag is set in the game flag storage area.

In step S360-5, the main CPU 110a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 8, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in S360-1 and the gaming information in the gaming status buffer, A predetermined number of times is set in the remaining fluctuation number (J) storage area.
For example, if the stop symbol data is “03” and the game information in the game state buffer is 00H or 01H, the remaining change count (J) storage area of the short-time game state is set to 0, and the game state buffer is in the game state buffer. When the game information is 02H or 03H, 10000 times is set in the remaining change count (J) storage area of the time-short game state.

  In step S360-6, the main CPU 110a confirms the gaming state and sets a gaming state designation command in the effect transmission data storage area.

  In step S360-7, the main CPU 110a sets 0 to the special symbol special electric processing data, and shifts the processing to the special symbol memory determination processing shown in FIG.

(Data creation process)
The data creation process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S611, the main CPU 110a performs a process of creating drive data output as a port output in order to drive the start opening / closing solenoid 15c to an open or closed state.

  In step S612, the main CPU 110a performs a process of creating drive data output as a port output in order to drive the special prize opening / closing solenoid 16c to an open or closed state.

  In step S613, the main CPU 110a outputs to the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 in order to turn on or off the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. The signal data to be created is processed.

  In step S614, the main CPU 110a performs processing for creating signal data to be output to the normal symbol display device 22 in order to turn on or turn off the normal symbol display device 22.

  In step S615, the main CPU 110a switches the first special symbol hold indicator 23, the second special symbol hold indicator 24, the second special symbol hold indicator 24 or the normal symbol hold indicator 25 to turn on or off. (2) A process for creating signal data to be output to the special symbol hold indicator 24 or the normal symbol hold indicator 25 is performed.

In step S616, the main CPU 110a performs processing for creating hold release solenoid data that is output as a port output in order to drive the game ball holding unit 10a by the hold release solenoid 10s.
More specifically, referring to the hold release flag storage area of the main RAM 110c, if at least one of the hold release flags of the first to third hold release flags is set, the game ball holding unit 10a is set to the immersive position. The drive data of the hold release solenoid 10s for movement is created. If none of the first to third hold release flags is set, the drive data is not created.

  In step S617, the main CPU 110a performs external information generation processing for generating serial data of external information in order to output an external information signal to be output to the hall computer or the like of the game store.

(Output control processing)
The output control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S710, the main CPU 110a performs a first port output process. In the first port output processing, the hold release solenoid 10s, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c, the special winning opening opening / closing solenoid 16c, the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21, the normal symbol display device 22, the first special display device. In order to drive the symbol hold indicator 23, the second special symbol hold indicator 24, and the normal symbol hold indicator 25, a process of outputting the various signals generated in steps S611 to 617 to the first output port is performed.

  In step S720, the main CPU 110a performs a second port output process. In the second port output processing, the value of each bit of the external information serial data generated in step S617 is output to the second output port in order from the least significant bit, and the clock signal and the latch signal are also output to the second output port. Output.

  In step S730, the main CPU 110a performs command output processing. In the command output process, in order to transmit a command to the effect control board 120, a process of outputting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the third output port is performed.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating the holding device 10-2 according to the second embodiment.

  In the holding device 10 according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the game ball holding portion 10 a that holds the game ball 200 is configured to be movable between the protruding position and the immersive position, but the holding device 10 according to the second embodiment. -2 is different in that the game ball holding unit 10a-2 is formed of a cylindrical rotating body. In addition, the structure of a function common to the reservation apparatus 10 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 4 attaches | subjects the same number also in FIG. 24, and abbreviate | omits description.

  As shown in FIG. 24, the game ball retaining portion 10a-2 of the second embodiment is configured by a cylindrical rotating body, and the rotating body is formed with a notch portion in which one game ball can be retained. For this reason, one game ball is held in the notch part of the game ball holding part 10a-2.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 24, when a specific operation is performed by the player when a specific condition is established (the player's release operation by the hold release sensor 17a is detected, or there is detection by the touch sensor 3a). And), the game ball holding unit 10a-2 performs one rotation from the right side.

  When the game ball holding unit 10a-2 rotates one round from the right side, the game ball 200 held in the notch of the game ball holding unit 10a-2 is moved to the second normal symbol gate 19 (second gate). It will flow down towards the detection switch 19a).

  Moreover, in order to control like Embodiment 2, in order to rotate the game ball | bowl holding | maintenance part 10a-2, what is necessary is just to comprise the hold release solenoid 10s by replacing with a hold release motor (refer FIG. 5).

  As described above, the game ball holding unit 10a-2 can be configured by a cylindrical rotating body to hold the game ball 200 and perform a release operation.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 25 is a perspective view illustrating the holding device 10-3 according to the third embodiment.

  In the first and second embodiments, the holding device 10 (10-1) is configured to perform one releasing operation by one holding release sensor 17a. However, in the holding device 10-3 of the third embodiment, a plurality of holding devices 10 (10-1) perform a plurality of releasing operations. The difference is that a hold release sensor 17a is provided and different release operations are performed depending on the type of the hold release sensor. In addition, the structure of a function common to the holding | maintenance apparatus 10 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 4 attaches | subjects the same number also in FIG. 25, and abbreviate | omits description.

  In the third embodiment, with respect to the two hold release sensors 17a provided on the left and right of the image display device 31 in the first embodiment, the left hold release sensor 17a is a first hold release sensor 17a-1, and the right hold release sensor 17a-1. 17a is assumed to be the second hold release sensor 17a-2 (see FIG. 1).

  As shown in FIG. 25, the game ball holding unit 10a-3 of the third embodiment is also configured by a cylindrical rotating body, similar to the game ball holding unit 10a-2 of the second embodiment, and the rotating body has one piece. A notch is formed to hold the game ball.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 25, when a player's release operation is detected by the left first hold release sensor 17a-1 when a specific condition is established, the game ball holding unit 10a-3 is Rotate one round from the left side.

  When the game ball holding unit 10a-3 rotates one round from the left side, the game ball 200 held in the notch portion of the game ball holding unit 10a-3 flows down toward the general winning opening 12. become.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 25, when a player's release operation is detected by the second hold release sensor 17a-2 on the right side when a specific condition is satisfied, the game ball holding unit 10a-3 is Perform one round of rotation from the right side.

  When the game ball holding unit 10 a-3 rotates one turn from the right side, the game ball 200 held in the notch of the game ball holding unit 10 a-3 flows down toward the second normal symbol gate 19. Will do.

  In addition, in the holding device 10-3 of the third embodiment, since the two discharge ports 10d are provided on the left and right, the game ball 200 that has been held is not necessarily placed in the general winning port 12 or the second normal symbol gate 19. The ball does not necessarily enter (or pass) but may be discharged from the discharge port 10d.

Further, in order to control as in the third embodiment, in order to rotate the game ball holding unit 10a-3, the hold release solenoid 10s is replaced with a hold release motor, and the first hold release sensor 17a-1 and the second hold release sensor 17a-1. The two hold release sensors 17a, together with the hold release sensor 17a-2, are connected to the main control board 110 and the main control input port (see FIG. 5).
In the hold release sensor input process (see FIG. 15) of the first embodiment, flag data (for example, a first L hold release flag, a first flag for generating a different drive signal for the hold release motor depending on the type of the hold release sensor 17a) 1R hold release flag) is generated. Thereafter, in the data creation process and the output control process (see steps S600 and S700) of the first embodiment, a drive signal based on the generated flag data may be generated and output to the hold release motor.

Thus, according to the third embodiment, the player can cause the holding device 10-3 to perform different releasing operations using the plurality of holding release sensors.
Then, the game balls 200 that have been put on hold flow down toward different areas (the general winning opening 12 or the second normal symbol gate 19) by the different release operations of the holding device 10-3. The release operation of the holding device 10-3 can be selected in accordance with the game situation.

  According to the above first to third embodiments, even if it is difficult for the game ball to enter the first normal symbol gate 18 by adjusting the nail of the game machine, the second normal ball is held by the holding device. Since it flows down toward the symbol gate 19, it is possible to prevent the lottery of the normal symbols from being interrupted when the game ball passes to the first ordinary symbol gate 18 or the second ordinary symbol gate 19.

  As described above, in the first to third embodiments, the firing control board 160, the touch sensor 3a, the firing volume 3b, and the firing solenoid 4a correspond to the “launching device”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the second start port 15 and the movable piece 15b correspond to the “variable winning device”, the first normal symbol gate 18 corresponds to the “first start area”, and the second normal symbol. The gate 19 corresponds to a “second start area”, and the first gate detection switch 18a and the second gate detection switch 19a correspond to a “start area detection unit”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the main CPU 110a that performs the general-purpose normal power control process shown in step S400 corresponds to “open determination means”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the non-short game state corresponds to the “non-specific game state”, and the short-time game state corresponds to the “specific game state”. Further, in the jackpot game end process shown in FIG. 21, the main CPU 110a for setting the short-time game flag and the number of times of change (J) corresponds to the “specific game state determination means”. Further, the main CPU 110a that performs the short-time game end determination process shown in step S330-2 and the general-purpose normal power control process shown in step S400 corresponds to "specific game state control means".

  In the first to third embodiments, the holding device 10 and the main CPU 110a that controls the holding device 10 correspond to the “holding device”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the main ROM 110b storing the game control program of the hold release sensor input process (FIG. 15) and the firing operation signal input process (FIG. 16) corresponds to the “release condition setting means”. To do. Further, the main CPU 110a that performs the hold release sensor input process (FIG. 15) and the firing operation signal input process (FIG. 16) corresponds to the “release condition determination unit”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the touch sensor 3a corresponds to “a firing operation detection unit”, and the hold release sensors 17a (17a-1 and 17a-2) correspond to “a specific operation detection unit”.

  In the first to third embodiments, the hold release sensor 17a (17a-1, 17a-2) is configured with an optical sensor (such as a photosensor). However, the glass frame 50 includes a so-called mechanical push button. May be.

  In the first to third embodiments, the holding device 10 (10-2, 10-3) is configured to hold a plurality of game balls, but may be configured to hold only one game ball. .

  In the first to third embodiments, it is assumed that only one holding device 10 (10-2, 10-3) is provided, but a plurality of holding devices 10 (10-2, 10-3) are provided. You may comprise.

  In the first to third embodiments, the holding ball detection sensors 17b1 to 17b4 for detecting the game ball 200 held in the holding device 10 are provided, but the holding ball detection sensors 17b1 to 17b4 are not provided. It may be configured.

  In the first to third embodiments, a specific operation of the player by the hold release sensor 17a (17a-1, 17a-2) is used as an opportunity in order to cause the holding device 10 to release the hold of the game ball. The case (see FIG. 15) and the case (see FIG. 16) triggered by a specific operation of the player by the touch sensor 3a are provided. With the operation as an opportunity, the holding device 10 may be caused to release the holding of the game ball.

  Furthermore, in order to cause the holding device 10 to release the holding of the game ball, the holding device 10 automatically holds the game ball on the basis of only the gaming state without requiring a specific operation by the player. The release operation may be performed.

In the first to third embodiments, when the normal symbol lottery cannot be performed immediately under a certain condition, the number of normal symbol reservations (F) storage area and the normal symbol reservation storage area of the main RAM 110c is a maximum of four. It is configured that the right of the normal symbol lottery is reserved up to the number, but it may be configured not to hold the right of the normal symbol lottery.
As described above, the normal symbol lottery right can be substantially held by the holding device 10 without the normal symbol lottery holding function of the normal symbol hold number (F) storage area and the normal symbol hold storage area.

In the first to third embodiments, the second normal symbol gate 19 that triggers the normal symbol lottery is provided immediately below the holding device 10, but instead of the second normal symbol gate 19, A starting port may be provided.
That is, a third start port different from the first start port 14 and the second start port 15 is provided, and the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 is defined as a “first start region”, and the third start port May be configured as a “second starting area”, and the large winning opening 16 and the large winning opening / closing door 16b may be configured as “variable winning devices”.

  Moreover, according to Embodiment 1-5, although the game machine used for a pachinko game machine was demonstrated, you may use for a swing type game machine (slot machine), a jigball game machine, and an arrangement ball game machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 3a Touch sensor 3b Launch volume 4a Launch solenoid 6 Game area 10 Reserving device 10a Game ball retaining part 10b Standing part 10c Entrance 10d Discharge 10s Reservation release solenoid 12 General winning opening 14 First start opening 14a 1st starting port detection switch 15 2nd starting port 15a 2nd starting port detection switch 17a Retention release sensor
17a-1 First hold release sensor
17a-2 Second hold release sensor
17b1 first reserved ball detection sensor 17b2 second reserved ball detection sensor 17b3 third reserved ball detection sensor 17b4 fourth reserved ball detection sensor 18 first normal symbol gate
18a First gate detection switch
19 Second normal design gate
19a Second gate detection switch
20 first special symbol display device 21 second special symbol display device 22 normal symbol display device 110 main control board 110a main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
130 Discharge Control Board 131 Discharge Motor 160 Firing Control Board

Claims (1)

A variable winning device that is provided on the game board and can be changed between an open state in which game balls are easy to enter and a closed state in which game balls are difficult to enter;
A first start area provided on the game board and into which a game ball can enter;
A second starting area provided on the game board and into which a game ball can enter;
A starting area detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the first starting area or the second starting area;
Determination information acquisition means for acquiring determination information based on the detection of the game ball by the start area detection means;
Hold storage means for storing the determination information acquired by the determination information acquisition means up to a predetermined upper limit number;
Based on the determination information stored in the holding storage means, an opening determination means for determining whether or not to change the variable winning device from the closed state to the opened state;
A specific gaming state in which the variable winning device determines either a non-specific gaming state in which it is difficult to enter the opened state from the closed state or a specific gaming state in which the variable winning device is likely to enter the opened state from the closed state. A determination means;
Specific gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state determined by the specific gaming state determination means;
The plurality of game balls flowing down to the game board are received, the plurality of received game balls are held, and when the release condition is satisfied, the held game balls are made to flow toward the second starting area. A holding device;
Number counting means for counting the number of game balls held by the holding device;
Total number calculating means for calculating the total number of pieces of determination information stored in the holding storage means and the number of game balls counted by the number counting means;
With
The holding device is
When the total number calculated by the total number calculation means is equal to or greater than a specific number, the game balls that are on hold are caused to flow down toward the second starting area,
When the total number calculated by the total number calculating means is not equal to or greater than the specific number, the release condition is determined based on the gaming state controlled by the specific gaming state control means, and the suspension is held based on the determination result. A gaming machine characterized in that a game ball is allowed to flow down toward the second starting area.