JP6620496B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a ball game machine.

  In a conventional typical gaming machine, a game ball launched in response to a player's operation enters a game area formed on the game board, and flows down the game area. When a game ball flowing down the game area enters the starting port, a lottery is performed according to the ball. A configuration is known in which a large number of game balls can be awarded to a winning opening when a big win is won in the lottery.

  In such a conventional gaming machine, in order to improve the interest of the game by the game balls flowing down the game area, various ideas relating to the movement path of the game balls have been made. For example, a game in which a warp path for guiding a game ball from the outside to the inside of a central structure disposed in the center of the game board is provided, and the game ball is guided to a stage that can be guided to the starting device using the warp path. There is a machine (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2004-254955 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in order to improve the interest of the game.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can suitably improve the interest of a game by a game ball flowing down a game area, for example.

In order to solve the above problems, a gaming machine according to the present invention
A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming balls flow through a predetermined entrance,
The back side is constructed so that it can be seen, and the decorative part is decorated by emitting light.
A game ball passage formed on the back side of the decorative portion;
In the game ball passage, comprising at least one passage display portion extending along a continuous direction of the game ball passage ,
The decorative portion includes a decorative undulation surface formed on the front side of the decorative portion, and a line-shaped protrusion formed on the back side of the decorative portion and extending along the continuous direction of the game ball passage,
The passage display unit is configured by the streak-like projections .

  With the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can suitably improve the interest of the game by the gaming balls flowing down the gaming area.

Front side perspective view of a pachinko machine as an example of a gaming machine Perspective view showing pachinko machine in open state Perspective view showing the pachinko machine in another open state A perspective view showing the pachinko machine in yet another open state Front view of pachinko machine Front view of the pachinko machine with the front block removed Front view of game board Rear perspective view of pachinko machine Rear view of pachinko machine Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine Flow chart showing an example of main control main processing Flow chart showing an example of main control interrupt processing It is a disassembled perspective view of a center structure. It is an enlarged view of the area | region E1 in FIG. It is the perspective view which looked at the top board decoration, the upper left front decoration, and the upper right front decoration from the back side. It is a fragmentary sectional view of a center structure. It is the figure which looked at the fragmentary sectional view of FIG. 16 from the front. It is a front view of a center structure. It is a figure explaining the shape of a downward passage. It is an enlarged view of the area | region E2 in FIG.

  With respect to an embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention, a pachinko machine 100 as an example of a ball and ball gaming machine which is a kind of gaming machine will be described, and then a modified example and other types of gaming machines will be described. First, regarding the embodiment of the pachinko machine 100, a structural configuration, an electrical configuration, and various control processes will be described in order.

<Structural structure>
First, the structure of the structural part of the pachinko machine 100 will be described with reference mainly to FIGS. 1 to 4 are perspective views showing various states of the pachinko machine 100, FIG. 1 shows a closed state of the pachinko machine 100, and FIG. 2 shows that the front block 102 and the intermediate block 103 are integrated with the outer frame 101. 3 shows a state in which the front block 102 is opened with respect to the intermediate block 103, and FIG. 4 shows a state in which the rear block 104 is opened with respect to the intermediate block 103. Show. 5 is a front view of the pachinko machine 100, and FIG. 6 shows a state in which the front block 102 of the pachinko machine 100 is removed from the state of FIG. Various wirings are omitted in each figure, and a part of the configuration of the game board 400 is omitted in FIGS. 3 and 6.

  The pachinko machine 100 includes, for example, an outer frame 101, a front block 102, an intermediate block 103, and a rear block 104, as shown in FIGS. It is configured to be displaceable.

  The outer frame 101 has a function as a main body support means for supporting the main body portion of the pachinko machine 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the outer frame 101 is a substantially quadrilateral frame in which a top plate portion 111, a bottom plate portion 112, a left side plate portion 113, and a right side plate portion 114 are assembled, and the pachinko machine 100 is installed. The game machine is installed in a game machine installation facility (island facility) provided in the game hall and is firmly fixed by a fixture (not shown). In the pachinko machine 100, the outer frame 101 is not an indispensable configuration, and the main body portion corresponding to the configuration of the pachinko machine 100 excluding the outer frame 101 has the same inner shape as the outer frame 101 or the outer frame 101. It is good also as a structure by which the island mechanism was equipped with the support mechanism to support and a part of locking mechanism which locks the main-body part.

  Intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122 are provided on one side of the outer frame 101 in the left-right direction (on the left side plate portion 113 side). The outer frame 101 and the intermediate block 103 are connected (coupled) by the intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122, and the main body portion of the pachinko machine 100 rotates one end side (left side) in the left-right direction in the front view of the pachinko machine 100. The base end side is configured to be capable of rotating forward with the other end side (right side) serving as a rotating front end side.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122 are provided separately at the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the outer frame 101. Each of the intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122 is configured such that, for example, a shaft portion provided in the intermediate block 103 is supported from below by a shaft support portion provided in the outer frame 101, and a shaft portion is provided in a shaft hole provided in the shaft support portion. It is comprised so that rotation is possible by setting it as the state inserted. In addition, the structure which can rotate the main-body part of the pachinko machine 100 including the intermediate block 103 is not limited to the above structure, and a shaft hole is provided on the intermediate block 103 side and a shaft part is formed on the outer frame 101 side. Other configurations may be used.

  The intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122 are provided with a function of releasing the connection state between the outer frame 101 and the intermediate block 103 by a predetermined removal operation, and the main body portion of the pachinko machine 100 including the intermediate block 103 is attached to the outer frame 101. Removably attached to it. For example, the connection state of the intermediate block 103 with respect to the outer frame 101 is released by performing a predetermined removal operation of opening the intermediate block 103 with respect to the outer frame 101 by a predetermined amount or more and moving it upward. The Thereby, the main body portion of the pachinko machine 100 can be removed from the outer frame 101.

  The front block 102 is disposed so as to overlap the front side with respect to the intermediate block 103, and the intermediate block 103 and the front block 102 are connected by front block support mechanisms 131 and 132 provided on the left side of the front view. The front block support mechanisms 131 and 132 have the same configuration as the intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122, support the front block 102 so as to be pivotable forward with respect to the intermediate block 103, and remove it by a predetermined removal operation. It is configured to be possible.

  The rear block 104 is arranged on the rear side with respect to the intermediate block 103, and the intermediate block 103 and the rear block 104 are arranged by rear block support mechanisms 136, 137 (see FIG. 8) provided on the left side in front view. It is connected. The rear block support mechanisms 136 and 137 have the same configuration as the intermediate block support mechanisms 121 and 122 and the front block support mechanisms 131 and 132, and support the rear block 104 so that the rear block 104 can be rotated rearward with respect to the intermediate block 103. And, it is configured to be supported so as to be removable by a predetermined removal operation.

  The pachinko machine 100 also includes an intermediate block locking mechanism that restricts the opening and closing of the intermediate block 103 relative to the outer frame 101, a front block locking mechanism that restricts the opening and closing of the front block 102 relative to the intermediate block 103, an intermediate block locking mechanism, and a front block There is provided a lock operating mechanism that is operated to unlock and lock the block locking mechanism. As shown in FIG. 3, the intermediate block 103 is provided with a key cylinder 141 as a lock operating mechanism that is exposed to the front side of the pachinko machine 100 through the opening of the front block 102.

  As a predetermined operation on the key cylinder 141, when a right rotation operation is performed with an operation key (not shown), the movable portion 143 of the intermediate block locking mechanism provided in the intermediate block 103 is activated. As a result, the engagement between the engaged portion 142 provided on the outer frame 101 and the movable portion 143 as part of the intermediate block locking mechanism is released, and the intermediate block 103 is in an open / close permitted state with respect to the outer frame 101. Become.

  On the other hand, the movable portion 144 of the front block locking mechanism provided in the intermediate block 103 is operated in response to a left rotation operation with a predetermined operation key on the key cylinder 141. As a result, the engaged portion 145 provided on the front block 102 as a part of the front block locking mechanism and the movable portion 144 are disengaged, and the front block 102 is in an open / close permitted state with respect to the intermediate block 103. Become.

  Further, the pachinko machine 100 is provided with a rear block opening / closing regulating mechanism that regulates opening / closing of the rear block 104 with respect to the intermediate block 103. By this rear block opening / closing restriction mechanism, the rear block 104 can be switched with respect to the intermediate block 103 between a state in which opening / closing is prohibited (open / close prohibited state) and a state in which opening / closing is permitted (open / close permitted state) by a predetermined operation. It is said that.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the rear block opening / closing restriction mechanism includes two opening / closing restriction portions 150 </ b> A and 150 </ b> B provided in the intermediate block 103 and one opening / closing restriction portion 150 </ b> C provided in the rear block 104. . The three opening / closing regulating portions 150A to 150C are provided with rotating pieces 151A to 151C that can be rotated. The rotating pieces 151A to 151C change the engagement state with the opening portion arranged so as to overlap in the front-rear direction in the closed state of the rear block 104 due to the rotation operation, and thereby the open / close prohibited posture corresponding to the open / close prohibited state And an open / close permission posture corresponding to the open / close permission state can be switched. When all the rotating pieces 151A to 151C are in the opening / closing allowable posture, the rotating pieces 151A to 151C can pass through the openings, and the rear block 104 is in an opening / closing allowable state with respect to the intermediate block 103. The open / close prohibited posture and the open / close allowable posture may be switched between the open / close prohibited state and the open / close permitted state by at least one of the positions and orientations of the rotating pieces 151A to 151C. Alternatively, it may be configured to move in a certain direction, or may be configured to operate by a combination of movement and rotation. Hereinafter, the same applies to the change in posture when the constituent members in each apparatus move between a plurality of postures.

  Among the three rotating pieces 151A to 151C, two rotating pieces 151A and 151B corresponding to a part of them are formed in the rear block 104 in the open / close prohibited state of the rear block 104 as shown in FIG. One rotating piece 151C exposed to the back side of the pachinko machine 100 through the opening and corresponding to the remaining portion is exposed to the front side of the intermediate block 103 as shown in FIG. For this reason, it is not possible to switch all the rotating pieces 151A to 151C to the opening / closing allowable posture only by an operation from one side such as the back side of the pachinko machine 100 or the front side of the intermediate block 103. Has been increased.

  Further, the pachinko machine 100 is provided with a game ball movement restricting mechanism for restricting the movement of the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the front block 102. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, for example, the game ball movement restriction mechanism is configured by a combination of a flow restriction piece 161 provided in the intermediate block 103 and a restriction changing unit 162 provided in the front block 102. The flow restricting piece 161 is biased by a coil spring (not shown) toward the front side where the front block 102 is located.

  In a state in which the front block 102 is closed with respect to the intermediate block 103 (a closed state of the front block 102), the flow-down restricting piece 161 is in a movement-permitted state that allows the game ball to flow down. The change unit 162 is pushed and pushed to the rear side of the intermediate block 103. The flow restricting piece 161 is arranged to be shifted rearward with respect to a guide passage (not shown) for guiding the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the front block 102 in the movement-permitted state. Thereby, in the closed state of the front block 102, the movement of the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the front block 102 is permitted.

  On the other hand, in the state where the front block 102 is opened with respect to the intermediate block 103 (open state of the front block 102), the pressure of the flow restricting piece 161 by the restriction changing unit 162 is released, and compared with the closed state of the front block 102. Accordingly, the movement restriction state in which the flow restriction piece 161 protrudes toward the front block 102 is set. The flow restriction piece 161 protrudes into the guide passage in the movement prohibited state, and prevents the game ball from flowing down to the downstream side. Thereby, the movement of the game ball from the intermediate block 103 to the previous block 102 is prohibited.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 100, as shown in FIG. 2, for example, the intermediate block 103 is closed with respect to the outer frame 101 at the lower end portion on the rear side of the intermediate block 103 and on the rotation front end side (left side in the rear view). An open / close detection switch 108 for detecting whether or not the intermediate block 103 is provided is provided. Further, as shown in FIG. An open / close detection switch 109 for detecting whether or not the front block 102 is closed with respect to 103 is provided.

  Next, each structure of the front block 102, the intermediate block 103, and the back block 104 is demonstrated in order.

 As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the front block 102 forms a substantially entire front surface of the pachinko machine 100 and is a substantially rectangular member having a thickness in the front-rear direction, and decorates the front surface portion of the pachinko machine 100. It functions as a front decoration means. The front block 102 is mainly configured by a base frame 201 made of synthetic resin, and is configured by attaching a plurality of functional parts before and after the base frame 201. On the front side of the base frame 201, a front decorative body 210 that forms the front surface of the pachinko machine 100 surrounds the opening 210A along the outer edge of the opening 210A that is formed to include the front-view center portion of the front block 102. It is attached. In a state where the base frame 201 and the front decorative body 210 constituting the front block 102 are combined, the opening 210A is formed through the wide area excluding the outer periphery to which the front decorative body 210 is attached. The intermediate block 103 including the game board 400 located on the rear side of the front block 102 is configured to be visible to the player through the opening 210A.

  1 and 3, the front block 102 includes a central panel 220 provided on the back side of the base frame 201 so as to close the opening 210A, a main storage mechanism 230 for storing game balls, An auxiliary storage mechanism 240 that stores game balls and a launch operation device 250 that is operated by a player to launch game balls stored in the main storage mechanism 230 are provided.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the front block 102 has an opening peripheral portion 211 that surrounds the periphery of the opening 210A as a part of the front decorative body 210, and projects forward on the lower side with respect to the opening 210A. An upper projecting portion 217, a lower projecting portion 218 located below the upper projecting portion 217 and projecting forward, and an upper projecting portion 217 and a lower projecting portion on the right side of the lower projecting portion 218. A flat portion 219 is formed which is configured by a substantially flat region located on the back side from 218 and on which the firing operation device 250 is disposed. The main storage mechanism 230 is disposed on the upper protrusion 217, and the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 is disposed on the lower protrusion 218.

  The center panel 220 has a function as a cover body that allows the rear side to be visually recognized while closing the opening 210 </ b> A formed penetrating in the front-rear direction in a state where the base frame 201 and the front decorative body 210 are combined. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the center panel 220 includes a panel frame 221 (see FIG. 3) attached from the rear side of the base frame 201, and a light transmitting property fitted on the front side of the panel frame 221. 1 and a light transmitting rear plate 223 (see FIG. 3) fitted substantially parallel to the front plate 222 with a predetermined gap on the rear side of the panel frame 221. Yes.

  The main storage mechanism 230 has a function of storing game balls acquired as the game progresses and game balls lent out from the game hall. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the main storage mechanism 230 includes a storage portion 231, a ball removal mechanism (not shown), and a ball removal operation member 232 that operates the ball removal mechanism. The storage unit 231 includes an inflow port 231 </ b> A that allows game balls to flow into the storage unit 231 from the inside of the pachinko machine 100, and an outflow port (not shown) that allows game balls to flow out from the storage unit 231 into the pachinko machine 100. A discharge port (not shown) formed upstream from the outflow port is provided. By releasing the discharge port, the game ball is released from the storage unit 231 to the player side without being taken into the pachinko machine 100. The ball removal mechanism has a function of switching the discharge destination of the game ball between the outlet and the outlet.

  A game ball acquired according to the progress of the game and a game ball lent according to a lending operation to a lending operation device 292 described later mainly flow into the storage unit 231 through the inflow port 231A. The storage portion 231 is formed with an opening on the upper side, and a game ball owned by a player is manually inserted through the opening, or a game ball lent out at a game hall is supplied.

  The game balls that have flowed into the storage unit 231 are sequentially guided to the side where the outflow port and the discharge port are formed (upper right side in FIG. 1) while being aligned in a row. When a ball removing operation (for example, a pressing operation) is not performed on the ball removing operation member 232, the game ball is guided to a launching device 330 (see FIG. 3) described later through an outlet. On the other hand, when the ball removal operation is performed on the ball removal operation member 232, the game ball is guided to the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 (see FIG. 1) through the discharge port.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 opens and closes the storage unit 241 having the inflow ports 241A and 241C (see FIG. 5) and the discharge port 241B (see FIG. 1) of the game ball, and the discharge port 241B. And a ball removal operation member 242 for operating the ball removal mechanism 243. A game ball or the like acquired as the game progresses mainly flows into the main storage mechanism 230, but flows into the storage unit 241 through the inlet 241A if the storage unit 231 is full. Further, even in response to the ball removal operation on the ball removal operation member 232, the game ball flows from the storage unit 231 to the storage unit 241 through the inflow port 241C.

  The bottom surface of the storage unit 241 is inclined downward toward the discharge port 241B. When the discharge port 241B is opened by a ball removal operation (for example, a pressing operation) with respect to the ball removal operation member 242, all the game balls stored in the storage unit 241 can be sequentially released to the outside of the pachinko machine 100. In addition, when the discharge port 241B is completely opened by the ball removal operation on the ball removal operation member 242, the release state is kept until a return operation (for example, a pressing operation again) is performed on the ball removal operation member 242. Maintained. A ball overflow switch 249 (see FIG. 10) for detecting whether or not game balls are excessively stored in the storage unit 241 is provided at the back of the inflow port 241A.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the firing operation device 250 includes a pedestal 251 projecting forward from the flat portion 219 of the front decorative body 210, a rotatable firing handle 252 provided around the pedestal 251, A variable resistor 253 (see FIG. 10) that detects the amount of rotation operation of the firing handle 252; a contact sensor 254 (see FIG. 10) that detects that the player is in contact with the firing handle 252; It includes a firing stop switch 255 (see FIG. 5) that invalidates the injection of the game ball accompanying the rotation operation by the player's operation. When the launch handle 252 is rotated by the player, a game ball is ejected from the launch device 330 (see FIG. 3) toward the game board 400 (see FIG. 3) with an intensity corresponding to the rotational operation amount. When the contact between the firing handle 252 and the player is not detected by the contact sensor 254, or when the firing operation is invalidated by the operation of the firing stop switch 255, the firing handle 252 is rotated. However, the game ball is not ejected from the launching device 330.

  In addition, frame light emitting devices 271 to 275 (see FIG. 10) are provided at the back of the front decorative body 210 in the front block 102. The frame light emitting devices 271 to 275 are arranged so as to overlap the opening peripheral portion 211 of the front decorative body 210 and are attached to the base frame 201. As shown in FIG. 5, the opening peripheral edge 211 includes an upper central edge 211A, an upper left edge 211B and an upper right edge 211C located on both the left and right sides of the upper central edge 211A, and an upper left edge. The left side edge portion 211D positioned below 211B and the right side edge portion 211E positioned below the upper right side edge portion 211C as light emitting portions, and frame light emission corresponding to each light emitting portion Devices 271 to 275 are installed.

  The frame light-emitting devices 271 to 275 include an upper center frame light-emitting device 271 corresponding to the upper central edge portion 211A, a left upper frame light-emitting device 272 corresponding to the left upper edge portion 211B, and an upper-right frame light emission corresponding to the upper right side edge portion 211C. The apparatus 273 includes a left frame light emitting device 274 corresponding to the left edge 211D, and a right frame light emitting device 275 (see FIG. 10) corresponding to the right edge 211E. Each of the frame light emitting devices 271 to 275 integrates and electrically connects a light emitting diode (LED) as one or a plurality of light emitting means, an electronic component such as a resistor for controlling the LED, and the electronic components. And a printed circuit board.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the front block 102 is provided with, for example, an upper left acoustic output port 211F and an upper right acoustic output port 211G at the upper portion of the opening peripheral edge 211, and these upper left acoustic output ports 211F. In addition, an upper left acoustic device 281 and an upper right acoustic device 282 (see FIGS. 3 and 10) are provided corresponding to each of the upper right acoustic output ports 211G. The upper left acoustic device 281 and the upper right acoustic device 282 are attached to the base frame 201 so as to be located behind (in the rear of) the opening peripheral edge 211 of the front decorative body 210.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front block 102 is provided with a game ball lending device 290, for example, on the upper right portion of the upper protrusion 217. The game ball lending device 290 includes a frequency display device 291 that displays a numerical value corresponding to the remaining amount of banknotes, cards, and the like placed in a card unit (not shown) arranged side by side in the pachinko machine 100, and a game ball lending A lending operation device 292 operated by the player when receiving the card, and a return operation device 293 operated by the player when returning the bills, cards, etc. inserted into the card unit. When a lending operation is performed on the lending operation device 292 in a valid state in which bills or cards are inserted into the card unit and numerical values corresponding to those amounts are displayed on the frequency display device 291, the lending operation is performed. In response, a predetermined number of game balls are lent out from the payout device 540 (see FIG. 8) of the rear block 104, and the display of the frequency display device 291 is updated as the game balls are lent out. On the other hand, when a return operation is performed on the return operation device 293 in the valid state, a card in which the equivalent of the banknote corresponding to the remaining amount or the remaining amount is recorded is returned from the card unit according to the returning operation.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the front block 102 is provided with an input operation device 260 capable of an input operation different from the shooting operation by the player. The input operation device 260 includes, for example, a push operation device 261 that can perform a push operation, a rotation operation device 262 that can perform a rotation operation, and a selection operation device 263 that can perform an up / down / left / right direction operation. With these operation devices 261 to 263, an effect selection operation for selecting an effect to be executed in the pachinko machine 100, an apparatus setting operation for setting the volume and light amount of each device for executing the effect of the pachinko machine 100, or a player It is possible to execute a production setting operation or the like that enables execution of the performance of the pachinko machine 100 according to the game before the previous time by inputting information, and these operations can be performed by the player or the game hall manager as necessary. It is said that. Note that an input operation unit (for example, an annular rotation operation unit in the rotation operation device 262) that the player contacts in the input operation device 260 is rotated, moved up and down by an input operation unit driving means such as a motor or a solenoid, or It is preferable that an operation such as vibration is executed by control of the pachinko machine 100 (for example, control of the sub-control board 940 (see FIG. 10)), either before or after the input operation, or during the input operation, By operating the input portion at a plurality of timings, it is possible to diversify the effects accompanied by the input operation, such as actively prompting the input operation.

  Next, the intermediate block 103 will be described. The intermediate block 103 is a substantially rectangular member having substantially the same size as the front block 102, and the front block 102 and the rear block 104 are attached so that the main body of the pachinko machine 100 is integrated. have. The intermediate block 103 is configured by attaching a plurality of functional components including the game board 400 to the base frame 301.

  3 and 4, the intermediate block 103 includes a base frame 301 having an opening, a game board 400 (see FIG. 3) that is attached from the front side while covering the opening of the base frame 301, and a base frame A game board support mechanism that rotatably and detachably supports the game board 400 with respect to the 301, a game board fixing mechanism that fixes the position of the game board 400 with respect to the base frame 301, and a game ball on the game board 400. Based on a command from the launching device 330 (see FIG. 3) to be ejected, a main control device 370 (see FIG. 4) that is attached to the back side of the game board 400 and controls the progress of the game in an integrated manner. And a sub-control device 390 (see FIG. 4) for controlling game effects and state notifications.

  In the base frame 301, as shown in FIG. 3, a guide passage portion 301A in which a guide passage for guiding a game ball released from a payout device 540 (see FIG. 8) described later to the front block 102 is formed, A plurality of wirings (not shown) and an opening 301B where the signal relay device 311 is located are provided. The opening 301B has a shape penetrating in the front-rear direction below the game board 400, and a plurality of wires inserted into the opening 301B are various devices provided in the front block 102 (for example, frame light emitting devices 271 to 271). 275, an upper left acoustic device 281 and an upper right acoustic device 282) and devices (for example, the main control device 370 and the sub control device 390) provided on the back side of the intermediate block 103 and the rear block 104 The signal relay device 311 includes a wiring, and has a function as a relay board that relays a part of the wiring.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the game board 400 includes a flat base 401 having a through-hole through which a game ball such as a discharge port 401A can pass back and forth, and an outer rail that curves smoothly from the lower left to the upper right of the base 401. 402, the inner rail 403 that curves smoothly from the lower right to the upper left of the base body 401, the return ball prevention mechanism 404 attached to the upper left end of the inner rail 403, and the upper right end of the outer rail 402 And a rebound preventing member 405 to be attached. The outer rail 402 guides a game ball launched from a launch device 330 described later into the game area. The return ball prevention mechanism 404 prevents the game ball once released into the game area from the launch passage 401B formed at a portion where the outer rail 402 and the inner rail 403 are opposed in parallel from returning to the launch passage 401B. The recoil prevention member 405 has a shock absorption property that prevents a significant recoil of the game ball that has passed the upper center of the game board 400 and directed to the right side through the upper center and returns to the left side again. For example, it is made of a material such as vibration damping rubber.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a return ball passage portion 163 is formed in the lower portion on the back side of the front block 102. There is a gap between the guide member 335 that guides the game ball from the launcher 330 in the direction of the launch path 401B and the outer rail 402, and the launcher 330 was launched but launched without exceeding the return ball prevention mechanism 404. The game ball returning backward in the passage 401B is returned to the auxiliary storage mechanism 240 (see FIG. 5) from the inlet 241A (see FIG. 5) via the return ball passage portion 163 arranged below the gap.

  The game ball that has advanced beyond the return ball prevention mechanism 404 reaches the game area, and moves (flows down) while falling in the game area by its own weight. The game area has a substantially circular outer peripheral shape, and is divided into a shape having a large area in the front-rear width slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball. The game area is generally divided into an outer peripheral portion by the outer rail 402 and the inner rail 403, the front side is substantially planar by the rear plate 223 of the central panel 220, and the rear side is substantially planar by the base body 401 of the game board 400. It is divided into. Various structures provided in the game area will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the launching device 330 sequentially sends out game balls stored in the main storage mechanism 230 to the launch position, and a ball feed solenoid 332 that drives the ball feed mechanism 331 (FIG. 10). A launching mechanism 333 for injecting a game ball arranged at the launch position, a launching solenoid 334 for driving the launching mechanism 333 (see FIG. 10), and a game ball launched from the launching mechanism 333 on the game board 400. And a guide member 335 for guiding to the firing passage 401B. As described above, the launch device 330 operates in response to the launch operation on the launch operation device 250, and the drive control of the launch solenoid 334 changes in accordance with the launch operation on the launch operation device 250 to adjust the launch force.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 370 includes a main control board 920 (see FIG. 10) and a board case 371 having a split structure that accommodates the main control board 920. The main control board 920 is housed in a light-transmitting board case 371 that is sealed so that it cannot be opened without leaving a trace.

  Further, the main control device 370 is rotatably attached to the back side of the game board 400. Specifically, an attachment portion 372 is rotatably connected and fixed to the base 401 of the game board 400 on the back side, and the main controller 370 is attached to the attachment portion 372. As a result, not only the rear side (front side) of the main control device 370 but also the front side (back side) of the main control device 370 is operated on the game board 400 by rotating the mounting portion 372. It can be easily confirmed while attached. The main control device 370 may be connected to the attachment portion 372 so that it cannot be removed without leaving a trace, and the removal state of the main control device 370 may be easily managed.

  The sub-control device 390 includes a sub-control board 940 (see FIG. 10) and a board case 391 having a split structure that accommodates the sub-control board 940. For example, the sub-control board 940 is housed in a translucent board case 391 that is sealed so that it cannot be opened without leaving a trace, like the main control board 920. It is attached to the back side.

  Here, in the game board 400, various structures arranged in the game area will be described with reference mainly to FIG. FIG. 7 is a front view of the game board 400.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the game board 400 includes a base body 401, flow-down changing members such as nails 411 and windmills 412 that change the flow direction and flow speed of the game ball, and a center disposed at the center of the base body 401. The structure 420, the starting device (specifically, the lower middle starting prize-winning device 431) according to the first special symbol arranged on the lower side with respect to the central structure 420, and the right with respect to the central structure 420 The starting device (specifically, the right starting winning device 432) related to the second special symbol arranged on the lower side, and the big winning devices 433, 434 (specifically, arranged downstream of the right starting winning device 432) Are the right grand prize-winning device 433 and the central grand prize-winning device 434), the starting device 436 related to the normal symbol arranged on the upper side (upstream side) of the right starting prize-winning device 432, and the upper right side of the game board 400. Against the prize-winning devices 433 and 434 Includes a useful communication actuator 435 disposed on the upstream side, Chuo regular winning device 439A which is disposed on the left and right sides of the winning device 434, and a 439B Te. Further, the game board 400 includes an upper middle start winning device 632 that is disposed in the upper middle start winning device 632 and functions as the right start winning device 432 as a starting device related to the second special symbol, and the central structure 420. A general winning device 639 that functions in the same manner as the general winning devices 439A and 439B disposed on the left side is provided.

  In addition, the game board 400 is provided with a plurality of switches as detection means for detecting the passage of the game ball corresponding to the lower middle start winning device 431 and the like (see FIG. 10). Thus, it is possible to detect the entry of the game ball into the predetermined area. For example, a first start winning switch (first start winning switch 441) that detects a game ball that has entered the lower middle start winning device 431, and a second start winning switch that detects a game ball that has entered the right start winning device 432 (for example, A second start winning switch 442), a second starting winning switch (second starting winning switch 642) that detects a game ball that has entered the upper middle start winning device 632, and a right that detects a game ball that has entered the right big winning device 433. A big prize switch 443, a central big prize switch 444 that detects a game ball that has entered the central big prize device 434, a combination action switch 445 that detects a game ball that has entered the consecutive action actuator 435, and a game that has entered the starter 436 A start switch 446 that detects a ball, and a non-special feature that detects a game ball that has entered a non-specific passage (not shown) formed inside the right big prize device 433 A passage switch 447, a specific passage switch 448 that detects a game ball that has entered a specific passage (not shown) formed in the right big prize device 433, and a game ball that has entered the general winning devices 439A and 439B are detected. General winning switches 449A and 449B, a general winning switch 649 for detecting game balls that have entered the general winning device 639, and the like are installed on the game board 400.

  The entrance portion of the game ball of the central structure 420 and the starter 436 constitutes a ball entrance, and the game ball that has entered each ball entrance is discharged into the game area. Each winning device, specifically, the lower middle starting winning device 431, the right starting winning device 432, the upper middle starting winning device 632, the right big winning device 433, the central big winning device 434, and the general winning devices 439A, 439B, 639. The entrance portion of each game ball constitutes a winning opening, and the game ball that has entered each winning opening is guided through a through hole formed in the base body 401 to a recovery / discharge passage (not shown) formed on the back side of the base body 401. Is done. In addition, the game balls that have not entered each winning device are guided to the collection / discharge passage through the discharge port 401A provided in the most downstream portion of the game area. The game balls guided to the collection discharge passage are discharged from the pachinko machine 100 to a game ball circulation device (not shown) provided in the game hall. When a game ball enters one of the winning devices, a predetermined number of gaming balls corresponding to the type of the winning device are paid out from the payout device 540 (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Each winning device may be configured separately from other winning devices, or an apparatus in which two or more winning devices (for example, the lower middle start winning device 431 and the upper middle start winning device 632) are integrated. The starting device such as the lower middle starting winning device 431 does not necessarily need to be a winning port from which a predetermined number of game balls are paid out when a game ball enters, It is good also as a entrance where a game ball is discharge | released again to a game area, without paying out.

  Each of the lower middle start winning device 431 related to the first special symbol and the upper middle start winning device 632 related to the second special symbol, the general winning device 439A, the general winning device 439B, and the general winning device 639 are to The entered game ball is guided to the back side of the base body 401 without changing the approach probability of the game ball. Further, the right start winning device 432 related to the second special symbol has a mechanism for changing the entrance probability of the game ball into the inside. The mechanism for changing the probability of entering a game ball need not be provided only in the right start winning device 432 according to the second special symbol, and instead of or in addition to the first special symbol or the second special symbol. May be provided in any one or a plurality of the starting device and the general winning devices 439A, 439B, 639. In addition, the mechanism for changing the entrance probability of the game ball may be constituted by a drive means such as an electrically driven solenoid, and is represented by a mechanism that operates by the weight of the game ball that has entered the predetermined area. You may comprise by the mechanism which operate | moves mechanically.

  The right start prize winning device 432 according to the second special symbol includes a right entry restriction mechanism 452 that changes an entry probability of a game ball to the inside by a transition between an entry allowable attitude and an entry prohibited attitude, and a right entry restriction mechanism A right entry restricting solenoid 462 (see FIG. 10) for driving 452. The right entry restriction mechanism 452 includes a movable piece that is driven by the right entry restriction solenoid 462. When the right entry restriction mechanism 452 is in the entry prohibition posture, the movable piece closes the entrance (winning entrance). The game ball cannot enter the right start winning device 432 by taking the arrangement, but when the right entry restriction mechanism 452 is in the entry allowable posture, the movable piece is arranged to guide the game ball into the advance entrance. The game ball can enter the right start winning device 432. The right entry restriction mechanism 452 enters the right when a game ball that has entered the starter 436 related to the normal symbol is won by a lottery based on detection by the start switch 446 (hereinafter also referred to as “normal symbol lottery”). In accordance with the drive by the restriction solenoid 462, the posture is allowed to enter the predetermined allowable number of times and for a predetermined time.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the right big prize winning device 433 includes a right entry restriction mechanism 453 for restricting the entry of a game ball into the inside by a transition between an entry allowable attitude and an entry prohibited attitude, and a right entry restriction The right entry restriction solenoid 463 (see FIG. 10) that changes the posture of the mechanism 453 and the transition between the non-guidance posture and the guidance posture causes the game ball that has entered the right prize winning device 433 to be a non-specific passage or a specific passage. A sorting mechanism (not shown) for sorting and a switching solenoid 465 (see FIG. 10) for switching the guidance destination of the game ball by changing the attitude of the sorting mechanism are provided. When the right entry restriction mechanism 453 of the right big prize winning device 433 is in the entry prohibition posture, the right entry restriction mechanism 453 closes the entrance (winning port), but the game ball cannot enter the right big prize winning device 433. When the right entry restricting mechanism 453 is in the approach permitting posture, the right entry restricting mechanism 453 opens the entrance and allows the game ball to enter the right big prize device 433. Further, the game ball that has entered the right big prize winning device 433 is guided to a non-specific passage when the distribution mechanism is in a non-guided posture protruding forward, and is in a guided posture in which the distribution mechanism is immersed backward. It is guided to a specific passage. The specific passage, the non-specific passage, and the distribution mechanism are provided to diversify the game state transition, and when a game ball enters the specific passage, an advantageous game state is given to the player as a privilege. .

  As shown in FIG. 7, the central prize-winning device 434 includes a central entry restriction mechanism 454 for restricting the entry of game balls into the inside by a transition between the entry allowable attitude and the entry prohibited attitude, and a central entry restriction mechanism. A central entry restriction solenoid 464 (see FIG. 10) that changes the posture of the mechanism 454 is provided. When the central entry restriction mechanism 454 is in the entry prohibition posture, the central entry restriction mechanism 454 closes the entrance (winning port), so that the game ball cannot enter the central big prize device 434, but the central entry restriction mechanism 454 Is in the allowance for entry position, the central entry restricting mechanism 454 opens the entrance, so that the game ball can enter the central prize-winning device 434.

  In addition, as an approach allowable posture and an entry prohibition posture as a mechanism for changing the probability of entering a game ball into the right entry restricting mechanism 452 or the like, each mechanism is configured to receive a winning opening (or a winning opening) of each device. In response to a change in posture of the operation member that switches between a special state in which a game ball can enter and a normal state in which the game ball cannot enter, at least one of the position and orientation of the operation member differs depending on each posture I just need it. Further, as a mechanism for changing the entrance probability of a game ball such as the right entry restriction mechanism 452, it is not always necessary to set the game ball in an inaccessible state, and the game ball is allowed to enter even in the normal state. In the state, the posture of the operation member may be changed so that the game ball can enter more easily than the normal state.

  A game ball can enter the right big winning device 433 and the central big winning device 434 when winning a lottery. Specifically, a lottery (hereinafter also referred to as “first special symbol lottery”) based on the fact that a game ball that has entered the lower middle start winning device 431 relating to the first special symbol is detected by the first start winning switch 441. ), Or a game ball that has entered the right start winning device 432 or the upper middle start winning device 632 according to the second special symbol is detected by the second start winning switch 442 or the second start winning switch 642. When winning a lottery based on (hereinafter also referred to as “second special symbol lottery”), at least one of the right entry restriction solenoid 463 and the central entry restriction solenoid 464 is activated. By this operation, at least one of the right approach restricting mechanism 453 and the central approach restricting mechanism 454 takes the approach permitting posture for a predetermined time for a predetermined number of times. Further, the distribution mechanism shifts to the guidance posture in accordance with the operation of the switching solenoid 465 after a predetermined time from the transition to the entry allowable posture of the right entry restriction mechanism 453, and further switches after the predetermined time from the transition to the guidance posture. The non-guided posture is returned in response to the stop of the solenoid 465.

  The combination operating device 435 is a device for setting conditions necessary for the right winning device 433 and the central winning device 434 to start operating. After winning the big win lottery, either the right big prize winning device 433 or the central big prize winning device 434 starts the operation on condition that the game ball of the combination actuating device 435 passes. For this reason, when a player wins a big hit, the player can start a special gaming state at the timing he / she intends. Note that it is not always necessary that either the right big prize winning device 433 or the central big prize winning device 434 starts the operation on condition that the game ball of the combination actuating device 435 passes, instead of or In addition, either the right big prize device 433 or the central big prize device 434 may be activated when a predetermined time elapses.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, the game board 400 is integrated with display devices 471 to 473 for displaying symbol change display and lottery results, and display devices 476 to 478 for displaying the number of times a game is held. A display device having a plurality of light emitting units is provided in a lower left portion corresponding to a part of the game board 400. The plurality of light emitting units are partitioned in advance into light emitting areas corresponding to each device, and the state of each device is displayed according to the light emitting state.

  Specifically, the first special symbol is variably displayed on the game board 400 in accordance with the first special symbol lottery, or the first special symbol is fixedly displayed with a stop symbol corresponding to the lottery result. The special symbol display device 471 related to the special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed in a variable manner in accordance with the second special symbol lottery, or the second special symbol is displayed with the stop symbol corresponding to the lottery result. Special symbol display device 472 related to the special symbol, special symbol hold display device 476 that displays the number of times the unit game is held according to the first special symbol, and special symbol hold that displays the number of times the unit game is held related to the second special symbol A display device 477 is provided. The right of the unit game related to the first special symbol and the right of the unit game related to the second special symbol are each reserved up to four times. Here, the unit game is a game for one time executed based on one start prize, and whether or not a lottery is executed based on one start prize and a lottery based on the determination A series of games including the start and end of variable display until the result is displayed.

  When the right of the unit game related to the first special symbol is held up to the maximum number of times, a game ball that has entered the lower middle start winning device 431 is detected by the first start winning switch 441 (see FIG. 10). However, the unit game right related to the first special symbol is not added. Similarly, when the right of the unit game related to the second special symbol is reserved up to the maximum number of times, the game ball that has entered the right start winning device 432 or the upper middle start winning device 632 is the second start winning switch 442 or the second Even if it is detected by the 2 start winning switch 642 (see FIG. 10), the right of the unit game related to the second special symbol is not added.

  Each of the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol and the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol is composed of a plurality of light emitting units, and is controlled by the main control board 920 (see FIG. 10). . Each of the display of the first special symbol and the display of the second special symbol is represented by a light emission pattern of the plurality of light emitting units (a combination of a light emission state including a light emission color (off, on, flashing)). The special symbol hold display device 476 related to the first special symbol and the special symbol hold display device 477 related to the second special symbol have the number of times of holding depending on the combination of the light emission states (off, on, flashing) of the two single color light emitting units. indicate.

  In addition, the game board 400 includes a normal symbol display device 473 that displays a normal symbol in a variable manner or a normal symbol that is fixedly displayed in accordance with a lottery result according to the normal symbol. A normal symbol hold display device 478 for displaying the number of hold times of the right of the unit game is provided. The right to unit games related to normal symbols is reserved up to 4 times. When the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol is held up to the maximum number of times, the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol is not added even if the game ball that has entered the starter 436 is detected by the start switch 446.

  The normal symbol display device 473 includes a plurality of light emitting units, and is controlled by the main control board 920 (see FIG. 10). A normal symbol is expressed by a light emission pattern of a plurality of light emitting units. Further, the normal symbol hold display device 478 displays the number of hold times by a combination of the light emission states (off, on, flashing) of the two single color light emitting units.

  In addition, the game board 400 is displayed so as to overlap the rear of the central structure 420, so that the decorative symbols are displayed in a variable manner or the decorative symbols are displayed in a unit game related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol. A decorative symbol display device 479 is provided. The variation display and confirmation display of the decorative symbols are controlled by the sub-control board 940, and are synchronized with the variation display and confirmation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol by the main control board 920. In the variation display of the decorative symbol, more complicated and various effects are executed than the variation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It should be noted that the variation display and final display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol and the variation display and final display of the decorative symbol always start to change at the same timing or stop display as the final display. It is not necessary, and the setting may be such that the change is started at substantially the same timing while providing a slight time difference at each timing, and the final display is performed at substantially the same timing.

  Further, the game board 400 includes a board surface light emitting device 490 (see FIG. 10) provided on the back side of various structures, and the board surface light emitting device 490 accompanies the progress of the game based on the control by the sub control board 940. Various light emission effects and state notifications by light emission are executed.

  Here, various game states and transitions between game states will be described. The normal game state (hereinafter abbreviated as “normal game state”) is a state in which the variable display time of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the normal symbol is long (hereinafter also referred to as “non-short state”). Correspond.

  The first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery are set to win a big hit with substantially the same probability. For example, the big special winning lottery is won by about 1/23. If a big win is won in either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, either the right big prize winning device 433 or the central big prize winning device 434 starts operation, and the player enters the prize winning gate. A special gaming state in which it is easy to obtain a prize ball due to winning a prize occurs. The number of winning balls that can be obtained in one big hit is set differently depending on whether the winning of the first special symbol lottery or the winning of the second special symbol lottery. For example, if you win the first special symbol lottery, you can get a certain prize ball (for example, about 150) with a probability of about 77%, and win a prize ball with no chance of winning with a remaining 23% of the chance. Can not. When the second special symbol lottery is won, it is set so that a larger number of prize balls can be obtained than the first special symbol lottery, and a large number of prize balls (for example, about 250) have a probability of about 25%. It is possible to acquire a small number of prize balls (for example, approximately 150) with a probability of 75% remaining.

  In addition, when a big win is won in either the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, the game shifts to the short-time gaming state with a preset probability. The probability of shifting to the short-time gaming state is set differently depending on whether the winning of the first special symbol lottery or the winning of the second special symbol lottery, and is set differently depending on the gaming state where the winning has occurred. For example, when the first special symbol lottery is won, the game shifts to the short-time gaming state by about 30% if the winning is in the normal gaming state, and 100% if the winning state is in the short-time gaming state, and the second special symbol lottery is won. In this case, the game state is set so that it is easier to shift to a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the winning of the first special symbol lottery.

  The short-time gaming state is a state in which the variation display time of the first special symbol lottery, the second special symbol, and the normal symbol is shorter than the non-temporary short-time state, and the jackpot in the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery The winning probability is the same as the normal gaming state (hereinafter also referred to as “low probability state”). The short-time gaming state is maintained until the total number of unit games related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, once or 87 times), but thereafter returns to the normal gaming state. . The total number of unit games in which the short-time game state continues (hereinafter also referred to as the number of short-time games) differs depending on whether the winning of the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery is won, and winning is generated. It is set differently depending on the gaming state. For example, if the first special symbol lottery is won, if the winning is in the normal gaming state, 87 times are selected with a probability of about 0.2%, and one time is reduced with a probability of about 99.8%. The number of times is selected. In addition, when the second special symbol lottery is won, it is set more easily than the time when the first special symbol lottery is won, and it is set to 87 times with a 100% probability regardless of the gaming state. Is selected.

  In the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery, a lottery lottery is executed in addition to the big hit. If you don't win a big win, you may win a small win. If you win a big win, the right big prize device 433 will operate for a short time (for example, approximately 0.1 seconds). Take an approach allowed posture. Corresponding to whether or not the game ball enters a specific passage (a part of the passage provided inside the right big winning device 433) during the period when the right big winning device 433 is operating based on the winning of the small hit Thus, whether or not to give a gaming state advantageous to the player is different. For example, when a game ball enters a specific passage, the right big prize device 433 starts operating again as an advantageous game state, and the allowed entry posture is set for a certain time (for example, approximately 1.8 seconds). Take. When a game ball enters the specific passage in the operation of the right big prize device 433 for the second time or more after winning the small hit, the right to act on the right big prize device 433 is given again. Continue until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, 3 times) is reached.

  Here, the advantageous game state when the game ball enters the specific passage is not limited to the configuration by the operation of the right grand prize winning device 433 again, but instead of or in addition to the other advantageous game. A state may be given. For example, a gaming state (hereinafter, also referred to as a “high probability state”) that is in a short-time state and has a higher win probability than the normal gaming state in the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery. (Also referred to as “probability game state”), and the total number of unit games related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, once or 87 times). good.

  Note that the transition between the gaming state and the gaming state is not necessarily the above-described configuration, and may include a gaming state different from the above-described gaming states, depending on conditions different from the above-described conditions. It is good also as a structure which changes between gaming states.

  Next, the operation of the main devices of the game board 400 will be described in chronological order. In the main control board 920, winning random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, stop pattern random numbers and various variation pattern random numbers related to special symbols (common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol) are generated, and various game states are generated. When the game ball that has entered the lower middle start winning device 431 related to the first special symbol is detected by the first start winning switch 441 (see FIG. 10), the first special symbol start winning is obtained. At the time of starting winning the first special symbol, if the unit game right related to the first special symbol is not reserved up to the maximum number of times, the winning random number, jackpot symbol random number and stop pattern random number relating to the special symbol are acquired, It is stored in a predetermined area of the main control board 920 RAM.

  The unit game based on the random number acquired based on the start winning of the first special symbol is not in the special game state, not the unit game related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, but the unit game related to the first special symbol. If the right is not reserved, it is started immediately after storing the random numbers. In addition, even when the game is not in a special game state, when the unit game right related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is reserved during the unit game related to the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The unit game based on the current start winning is started after the end of the unit game relating to all the special symbols (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) held before the current winning. If each random number is acquired based on the start winning of the first special symbol during the special gaming state, the unit game based on the random number is all of the units that were held before the current starting winning prize after the special gaming state. It starts after a unit game related to a special symbol.

  In addition, the unit game based on the random number acquired based on the start winning of the first special symbol is started after the end of all the unit games related to the second special symbol. That is, when each random number is acquired based on the start winning of the second special symbol after the current start winning, the unit game based on the start winning of the second special symbol is preferentially executed. The unit game based on the start winning of the second special symbol does not necessarily have to be executed in preference to the unit game related to the first special symbol, and the first special symbol and the second special symbol in order of the start winning. The configuration may be such that unit advantage control is executed, or the two special symbols are not alternative but can be varied simultaneously.

  In the case of winning a jackpot in the first special symbol lottery based on the start winning of the first special symbol, the stop symbol corresponding to the jackpot winning of the first special symbol lottery is further based on the acquired big hit symbol random number ( The type of jackpot symbol) is determined. The type of stop symbol and the type of jackpot correspond to each other. For example, the number of rounds corresponding to the number of times that the right approach restriction mechanism 453 or the central approach restriction mechanism 454 takes the approach allowable posture (for example, three rounds, four rounds, and five rounds) Multiple types of jackpots are set according to the type of game state such as the game state that transitions after the special game state (whether or not to shift to the probable game state), and the jackpot for each type The design is set. In the first special symbol lottery, when a big win is not won, a lost symbol different from the big win symbol is set as a stop symbol.

  After the first special symbol lottery, based on the current gaming state, lottery result, stop pattern random number value, various variation pattern random number values, and the number of reserved unit rights related to the first special symbol, the first special symbol The design variation display time is determined, and the design variation pattern is selected. Thereafter, the first special symbol variation display on the special symbol display device 471 relating to the first special symbol and the decorative symbol variation display (variation effect) on the decoration symbol display device 479 are started, and the first special symbol variation is started. Variation display according to a certain pattern is continued over the display time, and variation display according to the variation pattern is continued over the variation display time in the decorative design. Thereafter, as the variable display time elapses, the stop symbol related to the first special symbol is fixedly displayed, and the symbol corresponding to the stop symbol of the first special symbol is fixedly displayed as a decorative symbol. The final display of the first special symbol and the decorative symbol is continued for at least a predetermined time.

  When the stop symbol related to the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the gaming state shifts to the special gaming state after the final display of the first special symbol. In the special gaming state, the right entry restriction mechanism 453 of the right big prize winning device 433 and the central entry restriction mechanism 454 of the central big prize winning device 434 are allowed to enter a predetermined number of times in a predetermined order according to the type of jackpot. . For example, when a predetermined number (for example, eight) of game balls are detected by the big prize switches 443 and 444 in each time of the allowed entry posture in the central entry restriction mechanism 454, or a predetermined maximum allowed entry time ( For example, when 29.5 seconds) elapses, the first round ends, and the central entry restriction mechanism 454 shifts to the entry prohibition posture. Thereafter, after a predetermined entry prohibition time has elapsed, the central entry restriction mechanism 454 returns to the entry allowable posture again.

  The right entry restriction mechanism 453 and the central entry restriction mechanism 454 are configured such that only one of them takes an entry allowable posture during the special gaming state, and after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed from the start of the special gaming state (after the opening period) ) Will shift to the first allowed entry posture. In addition, the special gaming state ends after a predetermined entry prohibition time has elapsed since the last return to the prohibition posture and a predetermined standby time has elapsed thereafter (after the ending period). After the end of the special gaming state, as described above, the state shifts to the short-time gaming state or the probability variation gaming state.

  In various gaming states, when the second starting winning switch 442 or the second starting winning switch 642 detects a game ball that has entered the right start winning device 432 or the upper middle starting winning device 632 according to the second special symbol. 2 Special design start prizes. The control of the unit game based on the start winning of the second special symbol is executed in the same manner as the control related to the first special symbol described above. That is, if the right of the unit game related to the second special symbol is not reserved up to the maximum number of times when starting the second special symbol, each random number related to the special symbol is acquired and the unit game based on the start winning is executed. Is done. Also, stop symbol determination according to the second special symbol lottery, decoration symbol variation pattern selection, variation display execution, game state transition control, etc. are executed in the same manner as the control related to the first special symbol. Is done.

  In various gaming states, when a game ball that has entered the starter 436 is detected by the start switch 446, the winning random number for the normal symbol is acquired unless the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol is reserved up to the maximum number of times. Then, it is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control board 920. At this time, if the unit game related to the normal symbol is not in progress, the unit game related to the acquired normal symbol is started immediately after the storage. On the other hand, if the unit game related to the normal symbol is in progress, the unit game related to the acquired normal symbol is started after the unit game based on the right of the unit game related to the already obtained normal symbol.

  In the unit game related to the normal symbol, it is determined whether or not the winning game is won based on the value of the winning random number, and when winning, a predetermined winning symbol is set as the stop symbol. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, a predetermined lose symbol is set as the stop symbol. After the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 473 starts the variable display of the normal symbol. In the non-time-short state, the variable display by the constant pattern is continued for a predetermined variable display time. The variable display by a fixed pattern is continued over a predetermined variable display time shorter than the non-time-short state. As the predetermined time corresponding to the gaming state elapses, the stop symbol related to the normal symbol is fixedly displayed over a certain period of time.

  When the stop symbol related to the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the right entry restriction mechanism 452 of the right start winning device 432 shifts to the entry allowable posture at least once after the normal symbol is confirmed and displayed. Specifically, when winning in a non-time-saving state (normal game state and special game state), the right start winning device 432 allows entry for a predetermined maximum entry allowable time (for example, approximately 0.1 seconds). In the case of winning in the short-time state (the short-time gaming state and the probability-changing gaming state), a predetermined maximum entry allowable time (for example, approximately 2.4 seconds) that is longer than that in the case where the right start winning device 432 is in the non-short-time state. ) Intermittently (for example, divided into two times) to shift to the approach permitting posture. However, if a predetermined number (for example, one) of game balls is detected by the second start winning switch 442, the right entry restriction mechanism 452 shifts to the entry prohibition posture without waiting for the maximum allowable entry time to elapse. In addition, even if the number of times of transition to the approach allowable posture has not reached the predetermined number of times, the operation of the right start winning device 432 in the unit game related to the current normal symbol ends.

  Next, the playability of the pachinko machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. In order to receive the second special symbol lottery related to the right start winning device 432, the player must first win in the normal symbol lottery, and further, the game ball is allowed to enter the right start winning device 432 based on the winning. You must enter the right start winning device 432. The winning probability of winning for the normal symbol in the normal gaming state is the same as the winning probability in the short-time gaming state, but the staying time (for example, approximately) 0.1 second) is set to be extremely short compared to the staying time (for example, approximately 2.4 seconds) in the short-time state. Therefore, in the normal gaming state, the second special symbol lottery related to the right start winning device 432 is performed. The opportunity per unit time that can be received is significantly smaller than the opportunity per unit time that can receive the first special symbol drawing. Conversely, in the short-time gaming state, the opportunity per unit time for receiving the second special symbol lottery is significantly larger than the opportunity per unit time for receiving the first special symbol lottery.

  Therefore, the player plays a game aiming at the transition to the probability-changing gaming state by winning the big hit in the first special symbol lottery and then allowing the game ball to enter the specific passage in the subsequent special gaming state. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state and the probability variation gaming state, the game is played aiming to win a big win in the second special symbol lottery related to the right start winning device 432 before each gaming state ends.

  Specifically, the game board 400 is provided with a central structure 420 in the center of the game area where the game balls flow down, and the game balls are mainly collected within the range where the game balls do not flow down on the right side of the central structure 420. A game technique (a left-handed game technique) for flowing down and a game technique (a right-handed game technique) for causing a game ball to flow down mainly via the right side of the central structure 420 can be selectively performed. In the normal gaming state, the player plays a game using the left-handed gaming method, and in the short-time gaming state, the player plays a game using the right-handed gaming method. In addition, the right big winning device 433 and the central big winning device 434 are arranged at positions where the game balls that have flowed down on the right side with respect to the central structure 420 can enter, and play a right-handed game technique even in a special game state. .

  In addition, the game ball can enter the upper middle start winning device 632 related to the second special symbol located at the upper part of the central structure 420 in a situation where the game ball is caused to flow down by the left-handed game technique. . The upper middle start winning device 632 is set to enter the game ball with a very low probability (for example, approximately 1 / 60th of the probability) compared to the lower middle start winning device 431. The second special symbol lottery received by the entry of the game ball into the upper middle start winning device 632 makes it easier to obtain a value (game value) for the player to play the game than the first special symbol lottery, and it is a big hit When winning, the probability of shifting to the short-time gaming state is high, and there are many prize balls that can be acquired in the special gaming state. For this reason, in the normal gaming state, during the period in which a game is performed using the left-handed gaming technique, not only the big win expectation by the first special symbol lottery to the lower middle start winning device 431 but also the upper middle start winning device that rarely occurs When the second special symbol lottery is executed by the entry of the game ball to 632, it is possible to always expect a chance to acquire a large amount of game value.

  Next, the rear block 104 will be described. 8 and 9 are a rear perspective view and a rear view showing the pachinko machine 100, respectively. In FIG. 8, the outer frame 101 is omitted for easy understanding.

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the rear block 104 is configured by attaching other members and devices to the base 501. By connecting the base body 501 and the intermediate block 103 by the rear block support mechanisms 136 and 137, the rear block 104 is supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the intermediate block 103.

  The rear block 104 has a game ball tank 510 serving as a ball storage unit for storing game balls, and rectifies the game balls (for example, in one row) continuously on the downstream side of the game ball tank 510 and aligns them in one row. A tank rail 520 as a ball alignment portion, a case rail 530 as a ball guiding portion for guiding a game ball flowing in from the tank rail 520 on the downstream side of the tank rail 520, and a game ball payout on the downstream side of the case rail 530 A payout device 540 that lends out game balls, and guidance as a ball guide unit that guides game balls that have flowed out of the payout device 540 downstream of the payout device 540 to a guide passage (not shown) formed in the base 501. A member 550, a payout control device 560 for controlling the payout of game balls and the lending of game balls by the payout device 540, and external power A function as a power supply means for converting and outputting power of a predetermined voltage required for various types of devices and the like, and a game ball ejection based on a launch operation on the launch operation device 250 are controlled in cooperation with the main control board 920. A power supply / launch control device 570 having a function as a launch control means, a payout control device 560, a game ball lending device 290 (see FIG. 1), and a card unit (not shown) arranged on the side of the pachinko machine 100 And a relay device 950 that relays signals between them.

  The base body 501 is integrally formed of resin (for example, ABS resin), and includes a base portion 502 corresponding to the front side portion and a protective cover portion 503 positioned behind the base portion 502. The upper portion of the base portion 502 is formed in a substantially frame shape along the outer shape of the rear block 104, and the lower portion is formed in a substantially flat shape having a thickness in the front-rear direction. It has a function as a mounted part.

  The protective cover portion 503 is formed in a substantially plate shape having a thickness in the front-rear direction. The protective cover 503 is not shaped to cover the entire back surface of the intermediate block 103, but a part of the back surface of the intermediate block 103 that requires frequent inspection and confirmation, such as a part of the main controller 370, is attached to the back surface of the pachinko machine 100. It is set to a size that forms a window portion for exposure to the window. A large number of air holes 503 </ b> A having a function of improving the heat dissipation of heat generation in the main control device 370 and the sub control device 390 are formed on the back surface of the protective cover portion 503.

  The game ball tank 510 is a horizontally long box-shaped container that opens upward, and game balls supplied from a ball circulation device (not shown) of the island facility are sequentially supplied to one end side in the longitudinal direction. An opening (not shown) is formed on one end side in the longitudinal direction different from the side where the game ball is supplied in the game ball tank 510. The bottom surface of the game ball tank 510 is gently inclined in the longitudinal direction, and the game ball supplied to the game ball tank 510 moves to the opening side by its own weight. Further, the bottom surface of the game ball tank 510 is inclined in a direction (front-rear direction) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction as compared with the longitudinal direction, and guides the game ball to the side where the opening is provided (for example, the front side). . Further, a metal antistatic plate (not shown) is attached to the bottom surface of the game ball tank 510 so as to overlap the game ball tank 510, and the antistatic plate is connected to the ground potential so that the inside of the game ball tank 510 and The static electricity of the game ball on the downstream side is removed.

  The tank rail 520 is attached to the side where the opening of the game ball tank 510 is formed, and the game ball flows through the opening of the game ball tank 510. The tank rail 520 gradually increases in height as a passage forming member 521 that forms a passage for a substantially bowl-shaped gaming ball having a width through which game balls pass in a row, and an upper surface of the passage formed by the passage forming member 521. And a rectifying member 522 that rectifies the game balls flowing down the passage from the height of the top and bottom to the first level gradually. The passage formed by the tank rail 520 is gently inclined toward the downstream side, and guides the game ball to the side opposite to the game ball tank 510.

  The case rail 530 is formed in a vertically long shape so as to continue to the lower side of the tank rail 520, and a game ball from the tank rail 520 flows in. The case rail 530 continues downward while curving left and right so that game balls do not flow vigorously. In addition, a storage ball switch 591 (see FIG. 10) for detecting a ball break is attached to an intermediate portion of the ball passage in the case rail 530. The storage ball switch 591 detects a broken ball state in which a ball clogging or the like occurs on the case rail 530 or the upstream side thereof and game balls are not normally replenished in the case rail 530.

  The payout device 540 includes a payout mechanism for sending out the game ball, a payout motor 542 (see FIG. 10) as a driving means for driving the payout mechanism, and a payout counting switch 592 (see FIG. 10). In accordance with the operation of the payout motor 542 based on the control by the payout control device 560, the game balls stored in the ball passage are released downstream. The passage of the released game ball through the ball passage is detected by a payout counting switch 592, whereby the payout control device 560 (payout control board 930) counts the number of payout of game balls.

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the payout control device 560 and the power supply / launch control device 570 are attached so as to overlap the lower back surface of the base portion 502 of the base body 501 so as to be positioned at the lower back side of the rear block 104. It has been. The rear block 104 including the payout control device 560 and the power supply / launch control device 570 can be continuously used even when the game board 400 is replaced with another game board in a model change or the like.

  The payout control device 560 includes a payout control board 930 (see FIG. 10) and a board case that houses the payout control board 930, and the payout control board 930 does not leave any trace of opening, like the main control board 920. The substrate case is sealed so that it cannot be opened.

  The power / fire control device 570 includes a power / fire control board 900 (see FIG. 10) and a board case that houses the power / fire control board 900. The power / fire control board 900 is the same as the main control board 920. Are accommodated in a sealed substrate case.

<Electrical configuration>
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 100 will be described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 100. As shown in FIG. 10, the pachinko machine 100 includes control circuit devices such as a power supply / launch control board 900, a power supply monitoring board 910, a main control board 920, a payout control board 930, and a sub control board 940. In FIG. 10, a relay circuit device that only relays various signals is omitted. Hereinafter, these main control circuit devices will be individually described in detail.

  The power supply / launch control board 900 includes a power supply unit 901 that supplies power of a predetermined voltage to each part of the pachinko machine 100 via a power supply path (broken line in the figure), and a launching device according to the operation of the launching operation device 250. A launch control unit 902 that controls the driving of 330, and a signal relay unit 903 that relays an initialization signal from the initialization switch 907 and a ball overflow signal from the ball overflow switch 249.

  The power supply unit 901 takes in external power (for example, AC 24 volts) supplied from the outside and converts it into internal power (for example, DC 24 volts), and generates various types of power from the internal power. The power generated by the power supply unit 901 is power of driving voltage (for example, DC 12 volts) for driving devices such as various solenoids and various motors, drives various switches, and executes control processing. Power of control voltage (for example, DC 5 volts) for backup, power of backup voltage for holding the contents of the RAM of the main control board 920, and the like.

  The power supply unit 901 supplies various types of power generated from the internal power to the power supply monitoring board 910, the main control board 920, the payout control board 930, the sub control board 940, and the like. Specifically, internal power, driving voltage, control voltage, and backup voltage power are supplied to the power monitoring board 910. The main control board 920 is supplied with driving voltage, control voltage, and backup voltage power, and these powers are supplied via the power supply monitoring unit 911 of the power supply monitoring board 910. The payout control board 930 is supplied with drive voltage and control voltage power. The sub-control board 940 is supplied with driving voltage and control voltage power. The firing control unit 902 and the signal relay unit 903 are supplied with driving voltage and control voltage power.

  A power switch 909 is connected to the power supply unit 901. When the power switch 909 is in an off state, the external power capture is stopped. It is to be noted that the power switch 909 is turned off or a power plug (not shown) connected to the power supply unit 901 via the power switch 909 is removed from an external power supply outlet (not shown). A state where the supply of power to the inside of the machine 100 is stopped and a state where the supply of external power itself is stopped are collectively referred to as a “power failure state”.

  The power supply unit 901 is configured to normally output the control voltage power over a predetermined period even after the transition to the power failure state. As a result, the main control board 920 can save the state and finish the control so that the current control state can be restored.

  The firing control unit 902 controls the driving of the ball feed solenoid 332 and the firing solenoid 334 of the launching device 330 in cooperation with the main control board 920. The ball feed solenoid 332 and the firing solenoid 334 are permitted to operate when predetermined conditions are met. Specifically, it is detected that the player is touching the firing handle 252 (see FIG. 1) based on a contact sensor signal from the contact sensor 254, and a launch stop switch 255 for stopping the launch is provided. On the condition that it is not operated, the firing control unit 902 outputs a firing permission signal in an on state to the main control board 920. The main control board 920 outputs a firing solenoid control signal and a ball feed solenoid control signal to the firing control unit 902 based on the firing permission signal and the firing abnormality signal. The firing control unit 902 activates the ball feed solenoid 332 based on the ball feed control signal in the on state, and activates the launch solenoid 334 based on the reception of the launch solenoid control signal in the on state and the resistance value of the variable resistor 253. Let As a result, the game balls are sequentially fired from the launching device 330 with a strength corresponding to the resistance value of the variable resistor 253 (the rotational operation amount of the firing handle 252).

  The signal relay unit 903 outputs an on-state initialization signal to the main control board 920 when the initialization switch 907 is pressed. In the main control board 920, the storage information stored in the RAM of the main control board 920 is initialized in response to the reception of the ON state initialization signal. The initialization switch 907 is not necessarily configured to output a signal to the main control board 920 via the signal relay unit 903. For example, the initialization switch 907 is directly mounted on the main control board 920. The initialization switch 907 may be accommodated in the substrate case 371, and thus illegal signal input targeting a section in which a signal is transmitted can be suppressed.

  Further, when the ball overflow switch 249 detects a game ball, the signal relay unit 903 outputs an on-state ball overflow signal to the main control board 920. The main control board 920 outputs a low-speed payout signal to the payout control board 930 based on the detection of the ball overflow signal in the ON state, and the payout control board 930 that has received the low-speed payout signal receives the rotation speed of the payout motor 542 (payout). The game ball payout speed from the device 540 is reduced. The main control board 920 outputs a high-speed payout signal to the payout control board 930 based on the detection of the ball overflow signal in the off state, and the payout control board 930 that has received the high-speed payout signal controls the rotation speed of the payout motor 542. Make it faster.

  The power monitoring board 910 is a power monitoring section 911 that monitors the power supply status from the power / fire control board 900, and supplies power and transmits various signals between the power / fire control board 900 and the main control board 920. And a signal relay unit 912 for relaying. The power monitoring unit 911 also outputs a power failure signal to the main control board 920 in response to the transition to the power failure state, and monitors the voltage of 24 VDC which is the maximum voltage output from the power source unit 901. When the state where the voltage is less than 22 volts continues for a predetermined time, it is determined that the state is a power failure, and an on-state power failure signal is output to the main control board 920. The main control board 920 recognizes the transition to the power failure state by receiving the power failure signal in the on state.

  The main control board 920 comprehensively controls the operation of the pachinko machine 100. On the main control board 920, an MPU (not shown) as a one-chip microcomputer is mounted. The MPU includes a CPU (not shown) as an arithmetic processing unit, a ROM (not shown) storing various control programs and fixed data executed by the CPU, and various data temporarily during execution of the control program. And a RAM (not shown) for storing and the like. In addition, various circuits such as a timer circuit (not shown), a counter circuit (not shown), a clock generation circuit (not shown), a signal transmission / reception circuit (not shown) are mounted on the main control board 920. Yes. The RAM of the main control board 920 is configured to be able to maintain (back up) internal data by supplying a backup voltage from the power / fire control board 900 even after the transition to the power failure state.

  The payout control board 930 controls a game ball payout operation by the payout apparatus 540 according to an instruction from the main control board 920 and a game ball lending operation by the payout apparatus 540 according to an operation of the game ball lending apparatus 290. As with the main control board 920, the payout control board 930 is an MPU (not shown) as a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU (not shown), ROM (not shown), and RAM (not shown), a timer circuit. Various circuits such as (not shown), a counter circuit (not shown), a clock generation circuit (not shown), a signal transmission / reception circuit (not shown) are mounted. The payout control board 930 is equipped with an input / output port as a connection means for connecting to other devices so as to be able to communicate information. For example, the main control board 920 and the relay device 950 can perform bidirectional information input / output communication. The open / close detection switches 108 and 109, the storage ball switch 591 and the payout counting switch 592 are connected so that only information input communication in only one direction is possible, and the payout motor 542 has information in only one direction. Only output communication is possible. Note that the RAM of the payout control board 930 may be configured to have a backup function that allows internal data to be maintained over a certain period in a power failure state, like the RAM of the main control board 920, or the RAM of the main control board 920. Unlike the case, the internal data may not be maintained in a power failure state.

  The sub control board 940 controls operations of various rendering devices, various light emitting devices, various acoustic devices, and the like based on instructions from the main control board 920. The sub-control board 940 is equipped with an input / output port as a connection means for connecting to other devices so as to be able to perform information communication. The input operation device 260 is connected to be capable of information communication in both directions, and the decorative symbol display device 479 is connected to be capable of only one-way information output communication.

<Various control processes>
Next, various control processes executed by the main control board 920 will be described. The control processing in the main control board 920 can be broadly divided into main processing that is started upon recovery from a power failure state, and periodic execution (in this embodiment, with a cycle of 2 ms (milliseconds)). Timer interrupt processing.

  First, the main process executed by the main control board 920 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a main process of the main control board 920 (abbreviated as “main control main process” in FIG. 11).

  In the main process of the main control board 920, first, a series of control start processes (program start process S1001 to random number initial setting process S1019) for starting up the main control board 920 and initializing various information are executed only once. After that, the interrupt prohibition processing S1020 for prohibiting the interrupt, the winning random number initial value counter (partial area of the RAM), the jackpot symbol random number initial value counter (partial area of the RAM) and the normal symbol related to the special symbol Random initial value update processing S1021 for updating the value of the winning random number initial value counter (part of the RAM) and the first variation type counter to the fourth variation type for determining the variation time, variation pattern, etc. Fluctuation counter update processing S1022 for updating the value of the counter (part of the RAM), and interrupt permission processing S for permitting interrupts 023 and is repeatedly executed. When a timer interrupt request is generated before the interrupt permission process S1023, the timer interrupt process is executed immediately after the interrupt permission process S1023.

  In a series of control start processes, a program start process S1001 for setting an initial value to a stack pointer (part of the RAM) for controlling the execution of a program, an interrupt mode setting process S1002 for setting an interrupt mode, and a payout control board A stand-by standby process S1003 that waits for a predetermined time until 930, the sub-control board 940, and the like stand up is executed.

  After start-up standby process S1003, determination process S1004 of the output state of the initialization signal from initialization switch 907 of power supply / emission control board 900, determination process S1005 of the value of power failure information (part of RAM), storage Information storage state determination processing S1007 is performed, and it is determined based on these determination results whether or not to save the stored information in the RAM. Here, the stored information is information necessary for returning to the state of the game before the power failure, and corresponds to a part of the RAM that has been updated according to the progress of the game before the power failure. The counter value related to the unit game in the middle, the counter value stored by the start winning, and the like are exemplified.

  The storage state of the stored information is determined as follows. First, a checksum value for a storage area in a predetermined range of the RAM is calculated (checksum calculation process S1006), and the current checksum value and a power failure monitoring process S1202 (see FIG. 12) accompanying the transition to the previous power failure state. It is determined whether or not the exclusive OR with the RAM determination value that is the 2's complement of the checksum value calculated in (0) is “0” (determination processing S1007), and thereby the current checksum value and It is determined whether or not the checksum value at the time of transition to the power failure state is the same.

  When the initialization signal is in the on state (S1004: Y), when the power failure information is not a predetermined power failure value indicating that the stored information is stored and terminated when the transition to the power failure state is completed (S1005: N), or saved If the information is not normally held (S1007: N), a RAM clear process S1008 for erasing the stored information in the RAM is executed. After it is determined that the stored information is normally held (S1007: Y), or after the RAM clear process S1008 is executed, hardware for initializing various devices connected to the main control board 920 A hardware initialization process S1009 is executed.

  After the hardware initialization process S1009, a determination process S1010 of whether or not the power failure information is a power failure value is executed. When the power failure information is a power failure value (S1010: N), a RAM recovery setting process S1011 for initial setting of various types of information including a return of stored information and a recovery command indicating completion of the setting are set (return command). Output processing S1012). By returning the stored information in the RAM return setting process S1011, the control state of the main control board 920 is returned to the control state immediately before the transition to the previous power failure state.

  On the other hand, when the power failure information is not a power failure value (S1010: Y), various types of information are initialized without returning the retained information (RAM initial setting processing S1013), and an initialization command indicating the completion of the setting is output. (Initialization command output processing S1014).

  In the RAM recovery setting process S1011 and the RAM initial setting process S1013, the power failure information is set to a predetermined energization value different from the power failure value, and various error states such as fraud detection errors immediately before the transition to the previous power failure state. Even if has occurred, all those error states are cleared. Further, either the return command or the initialization command is output from the main control board 920 to both the payout control board 930 and the sub control board 940, and the payout control board 930 and the sub control board 940 that have received the return command or the initialization command. In each of these, a predetermined initialization process is executed.

  After the initial setting of the RAM according to the situation at the time of start-up (determination process S1004 to initialization command output process S1014), if the condition device is operating at the time of transition to the previous power failure state, the special gaming state is set. Preparation for returning is performed (special gaming state return preparation processing S1015). Specifically, in the special game state return preparation process S1015, the operating states of the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device are determined, and a process corresponding to the game situation in the power failure state is executed in the sub-control board 940. The

  After the special game state return preparation process S1015, it is determined whether or not the time-short state flag is set to determine whether it is a time-short state or a non-time-short state (determination process S1016). In the case (S1016: Y), a time reduction command is output (time reduction command output processing S1017). On the other hand, if it is in the non-time-short state (S1016: N), a non-time-short command is output (non-time-short command output processing S1018). Thereafter, the value of the winning random number counter (part of the RAM) related to the special symbol is initialized (random number initial setting process S1019).

  Next, timer interrupt processing executed by the main control board 920 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing (abbreviated as “main control interrupt processing” in the figure) executed by the main control board 920.

  In the timer interrupt process of the main control board 920, first, an interrupt start process S1201 for starting a timer interrupt is executed. Specifically, a predetermined value is set in the interrupt control register. As a result, interrupts other than this timer interrupt are prohibited. Thereafter, a power failure monitoring process S1202 to an external information output process S1221 related to substantial control such as game progress control of the pachinko machine 100 and monitoring of various sensors are sequentially executed. However, when the game progress is stopped based on various fraud detections (S1207: Y), the control signal output process S1208 to the external information output process S1221 are not executed. Finally, an interrupt permission process S1222 that permits the next timer interrupt is executed, and the current timer interrupt process ends. In the following, various main processes will be described individually.

  In the power failure monitoring process S1202, the value of the power failure information (part of the RAM) is updated based on the output state of the power failure signal output from the power monitoring unit 911 of the power monitoring board 910. Specifically, the output state of the power failure signal is confirmed three times, and when the on state is detected at all three times, it is determined that the power failure state is present. If it is not determined in this determination that the power is out, the power outage information is maintained at the energization value.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the power failure monitoring process S1202 that the power is out, the following process is executed. First, the value of the power failure information is changed from the energization value set in the RAM recovery setting process S1011 or the RAM initial setting process S1013 (see FIG. 11) to a predetermined power failure value. Also, a checksum value for a storage area in a predetermined range of the RAM is calculated, and the 2's complement of the checksum value is set as the RAM determination value. As a result, the pachinko machine 100 enters an infinite loop that does not perform substantial control such as game progress or monitoring of various sensors, and the state of the RAM after the RAM determination value is set is held based on the backup power. The Since the output state of the power failure signal is confirmed three times, each process of timer interruption is executed twice after the first reception of the power failure signal is detected.

  In the random number update process S1203, the winning random number counter related to the special symbol, the big hit symbol random number counter, the stop pattern selection counter, and the winning random number counter related to the normal symbol are updated. Specifically, when the value of the winning random number counter related to the special symbol is a value different from the specified maximum value (for example, “576”), the value is changed by “1” larger than the current value, and the special symbol is changed. When the value of the winning random number counter relating to is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). However, if the value after the change is the same as the cyclic initial value for the winning random number counter related to the special symbol, the value of the winning random number counter related to the special symbol is the same as the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol. The cyclic initial value is also set to the same value as the winning random number initial value counter.

  The jackpot symbol random number counter, the stop pattern selection counter, and the winning random number counter related to the normal symbol are also updated in the same manner as the winning random number counter related to the special symbol. However, as the update range determined by the specified maximum value and specified minimum value of each counter, a unique value is set for each counter, and a plurality of counters are updated asynchronously. Is referred to an initial value counter unique to each counter. For example, the winning random number counter related to the special symbol and the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol have the same value range, and the big hit symbol random number counter and the big hit symbol random number initial value counter have the same value range, The winning random number counter related to the normal symbol and the winning random number initial value counter related to the normal symbol have the same value range.

  In the random number initial value update process S1204, the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol, the big hit symbol random number initial value counter, and the winning random number initial value counter related to the normal symbol are updated. Specifically, if the value of the winning random number initial value counter related to the special symbol is different from the specified maximum value (for example, “576”), the value is changed to a value “1” larger than the current value, When the value of the winning random number initial value counter related to the symbol is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). The initial random number counter for the special symbol and the initial random number counter for the normal symbol are also the initial random numbers for the special symbol, except that the specified maximum value and the specified minimum value are unique to those counters. It is updated in the same way as the value counter.

  In the variation counter update processing S1205, the values of the first variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter for determining the variation time, variation pattern, and the like are updated. Specifically, when the value of the first variation type counter is a value different from a specified maximum value (for example, “187”), the value is changed to a value that is larger by “1” than the current value, and the first variation When the value of the type counter is the specified maximum value, it is changed to the specified minimum value (“0”). The second variation type counter to the fourth variation type counter are also updated in the same manner as the first variation type counter except that the specified maximum value and the specified minimum value are values unique to those counters. Is done.

  Note that each winning random number counter, jackpot symbol random number counter, stop pattern selection counter and each variation type counter related to special symbols and normal symbols are not necessarily configured as described above, and at least a part of the counter is configured as another configuration. For example, it may be configured to update from a constant initial value without using an initial value counter, or may be configured by a random number generating IC without using a program and refer to a value as necessary. .

  In the game stop determination process S1206, when the fraud detection information is a fraud detection value, it is updated to the game stop value and various information for stopping the progress of the game is set. On the other hand, if the fraud detection information is not a fraud detection value or if it is already a game stop value, the game stop determination process S1206 ends without executing each process for stopping the game progress. The fraud detection information is set to a fraud detection value when occurrence of various frauds is detected in the fraud detection processing S1211. In the determination process S1207, whether or not the game is stopped is determined based on whether or not the fraud detection information is a game stop value.

  In the control signal output process S1208, based on the control data stored in the output buffer, the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol, the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol, and the normal symbol related A signal for controlling various notification devices such as the normal symbol display device 473 is output. Further, based on the control data stored in the output buffer, various actuators such as a ball feed solenoid 332, a firing solenoid 334, a right entry restriction solenoid 462, a right entry restriction solenoid 463, a central entry restriction solenoid 464, and a switching solenoid 465 are provided. A control signal is output.

  In the switch reading process S1209, the first start winning switch 441, the second start winning switch 442, 642, the right big prize switch 443, the central big prize switch 444, the combination operation switch 445, the start switch 446, and the non-specific passage switch 447. The signal states from each of the specific passage switch 448 and the general winning switches 449A, 449B, 649 are read, and changes in the detection state of the game ball by various switches are detected.

  Specifically, in the switch reading process S1209, signal states from various switches are read into the input buffer (part of the RAM) twice at predetermined time intervals, and signals from the various switches are read. Each time, the signal state read for the first time (hereinafter abbreviated as “first signal state”) and the signal state read for the second time (hereinafter abbreviated as “second signal state”) Based on the detection state detected by the previous timer interrupt (hereinafter abbreviated as “previous detection state”), changes in the detection state of various switches are detected. For each switch, when the previous detection state is the off state, the first signal state is the on state, and when the second signal state is the on state, it is determined that the switch is on. Thus, a detection flag (a partial area of the RAM) corresponding to the type of switch is set. As described in the power failure monitoring process S1202, even if the power supply is stopped, each process of the timer interrupt is executed twice, so that the various switches are turned on immediately after the power supply is stopped. Even when it is started, detection flags of various switches can be set accurately.

  In the timer update process S1210, various timers (predetermined areas of the RAM) used for special symbol and normal symbol variation display, control of each gaming state, fraud monitoring, and the like are updated.

  In the fraud detection process S1211, an illegal act such as forcibly entering a game ball into various winning devices or forcibly operating various winning devices is detected. Specifically, the right start winning device 432, the right grand prize winning device 433, and the central big prize winning device 434 are forced to move to an allowable entry posture, and the game ball is guided to a specific passage of the right big prize winning device 433 by vibration. , The right start winning device 432 by radio waves, the right grand winning device 433 and the central grand winning device 434 are forcibly induced to malfunction, the game balls are guided to various winning devices by magnetic attraction, and the lower middle starting winning device 431. It is highly likely that an illegal act such as guiding a game ball at an abnormal timing to the right start winning device 432, the upper middle starting winning device 632, the right big winning device 433, and the central big winning device 434 is performed. Detect occurrence.

  In the winning detection response process S1212, control based on detection of a game ball by various switches provided in the game board 400 is executed. Specifically, when the first start winning switch detection flag is set based on the detection of the game ball by the first start winning switch 441 (see FIG. 10), the middle start winning counter (predetermined in the RAM). Area) and the first payout counter (a predetermined area of the RAM) are updated. Further, when the second start winning switch detection flag is set based on the detection of the game ball by the second starting winning switches 442 and 642 (see FIG. 10), the first payout counter is updated. Further, when the right big prize switch detection flag is set based on the detection of the game ball by the right big prize switch 443 (see FIG. 10), or when the game ball is detected by the central big prize switch 444 (see FIG. 10). When the central special winning switch detection flag is set on the basis, the special winning counter (predetermined area of RAM) and the second payout counter (predetermined area of RAM) are updated.

  In the launch control process S1213, launch related information for controlling the launch of the game ball by the launch device 330 is updated. Specifically, the operation flag of the ball feed solenoid 332 that drives the ball feed mechanism 331 and the operation flag of the firing solenoid 334 that drives the firing mechanism 333 are updated.

  In the input signal monitoring process S1214, based on the output state of the signal from the open / close detection switch 108 (see FIG. 10) via the payout control board 930, an intermediate block is provided for the outer frame 101 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). It is detected whether 103 (refer FIG.1 and FIG.2) is closed. Further, based on the output state of the signal from the open / close detection switch 109 via the payout control board 930 (see FIG. 10), the front block 102 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) with respect to the intermediate block 103 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). 3) is detected.

  In the payout state monitoring process S1215, information indicating the payout control state output from the payout control board 930 is monitored, and various payout state commands corresponding to the payout control state are set as necessary. The sub-control board 940 that has received the payout state command causes the decorative symbol display device 479, the upper left acoustic device 281 and the upper right acoustic device 282 to perform notification according to the type of the payout state command.

  In the payout signal output process S1216, various prize ball commands are set based on the values of the first payout counter and the second payout counter as necessary, and output to the payout control board 930. The first payout counter and the second payout counter are updated according to the setting of the prize ball command. For example, the first payout counter is incremented by 1 each time a game ball corresponding to one winning is detected, and decremented by 1 each time a winning ball command based on the winning is set. Each time the payout control board 930 executes control for paying out the number of game balls (for example, 3) corresponding to the winning (specifically, shortly before the payout is completed), the main control board 920 is awarded. In a situation where a ball command is requested and the payout of a prize ball is continuing, a further prize ball command is output from the main control board 920. The second payout counter is a counter that is updated in response to a winning (for example, 13) that has a different number of prize balls than the first payout counter, and outputs a prize ball command based on the value of the second payout counter. When the 930 is received, the payout control board 930 executes control for paying out a number of game balls corresponding to the prize ball command.

  In the special symbol-related process S1217, control for holding the right of the unit game related to the first special symbol and control of the unit game related to the first special symbol are executed. Specifically, operation control of the special symbol hold display device 476 related to the first special symbol is executed in the hold control of the unit game right related to the first special symbol. In addition, in the control of the unit game related to the first special symbol, the operation control of the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol is executed, and if the big win is won in the first special symbol lottery, the right big winning device Operation control of 433 and the central prize-winning device 434 is further executed.

  Further, in the special symbol related process S1217, the unit game right holding control related to the second special symbol and the unit game control related to the second special symbol are executed. Specifically, the operation control of the special symbol hold display device 477 related to the second special symbol is executed in the hold control of the right of the unit game related to the second special symbol. In addition, in the control of the unit game related to the second special symbol, the operation control of the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol is executed, and when the big win is won in the second special symbol lottery, Operation control of 433 and the central prize-winning device 434 is further executed.

  In the normal symbol related process S1218, the unit game right holding control related to the normal symbol and the unit game control related to the normal symbol are executed. Specifically, the operation control of the normal symbol hold display device 478 is executed in the hold control of the right of the unit game related to the normal symbol. Further, in the control of the unit game related to the normal symbol, the operation control of the normal symbol display device 473 related to the normal symbol is executed, and when the normal symbol lottery is won, the operation control of the right start winning device 432 is further executed. .

  In the display control processing S1219, the special symbol display device 471 related to the first special symbol, the special symbol display device 472 related to the second special symbol, the special symbol hold display device 476 related to the first special symbol in the special symbol related processing S1217, and Based on various information updated to control the operation of the special symbol hold display device 477 related to the second special symbol, output data for specifically operating these devices is synthesized. The synthesized output data is output to each device in a control signal output process S1208 based on the next timer interrupt.

  In the motor control process S1220, operation control of various motors is executed. In the external information output process S1221, output data to be output to an external device such as a data display device (not shown) or a management device (not shown) electrically connected to the pachinko machine 100 is set.

<Change in direction of movement of game ball made by central structure 420>
Next, a configuration in which the moving direction of the game ball flowing down the game area is changed by the central structure 420 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the central structure 420. More specifically, FIG. 13 shows some members (top plate decoration 611, upper left front decoration) attached to the upper part of the front side that is the surface facing the player (ie, the front side) in the central structure 420. 612 is an exploded perspective view of the upper right front ornament 613) with respect to other members.

  As illustrated in FIG. 13, the top panel decoration 611 includes a roof 611 </ b> B that protrudes from a position on the inner side of the upper end on the back surface of the decoration main body 611 </ b> A visually recognized by the player. The roof 611B is configured in a smoothly curved shape that is convex upward with the approximate center of the top panel decoration 611 as an apex. The end of the roof 611B that is opposite to the joint with the decoration main body 611A is in contact with the front surface on the main body side of the central structure 420, whereby the roof 611B is connected to the back surface of the decoration main body 611A and the central structure 420. It is comprised as a spherical passage with the upper part opened together with the main body side front surface.

  Therefore, a part of the game balls launched from the launching device 330 and entered the upper game area (hereinafter also referred to as “upper game area”) with respect to the central structure 420 flow down the upper game area and then the roof 611B. Can reach. As described above, since the roof 611B is configured in a curved shape that is convex upward, the game ball that has reached the roof 611B can be changed depending on the arrival position and the moving direction of the game ball at the time of arrival. 611B rolls leftward (arrow Q1 direction) or rightward (arrow Q2 direction).

  In addition, a concave portion 611C that guides the game ball to the main body side of the central structure 420 is provided at the approximate center (that is, approximately the top) of the roof 611B. A passage port 621 is provided at the end of the recess 611C. Thereby, the game ball that has reached the roof 611B can be guided to the passing port 621 through the recess 611C in addition to being discharged from the left end or the right end of the roof 611B by rolling left or right. That is, the roof 611B functions as a distribution unit (first distribution unit) that distributes the game balls that have reached the roof 611B to the left or right or the passage port 621.

  In the upper right upper part of the main body side of the central structure 420, a partition unit 624 that partitions a game area that flows down by the left-handed gaming technique and a game area that flows down by the right-handed gaming technique is provided. The partition portion 624 has a plate-like shape having an inclined surface inclined downward to the right with a certain gap through which the game ball can pass with respect to the outer rail 402 (see FIG. 7) forming the outer shape of the game area. The game ball that is formed and passes through the upper side of the partition portion 624 becomes a game ball that flows down by the right-handed game technique. On the other hand, the game ball that passes through the lower side of the partition unit 624 becomes a game ball that flows down by the left-handed game technique.

  Therefore, in the pachinko machine 100 of the present embodiment, the game balls that flow down by the left-handed gaming method are only the game areas that continue from the left side to the lower side with respect to the central structure 420 (hereinafter also referred to as “left game area”). Instead, it passes through a central upper game area located between the left game area and the upper game area. The center upper game area is an area including an inner area of the central structure 420, and corresponds to an area where game balls flow down the left and right of the roof 611B in the upper portion of the central structure 420. Including. For this reason, the upper middle start winning device 632 is arranged on the upstream side with respect to the left game area. On the other hand, the lower middle start winning device 431 is provided in a part of the left game area, and is disposed downstream of the center upper game area.

  The movement path of the game balls distributed left and right by the roof 611B will be described later with reference to FIGS. On the other hand, the game ball guided to the passage port 621 is guided to the sorting device 622 provided continuously with the passage port 621. The distribution device 622 is a device that functions as a second distribution unit, and distributes the guided game ball to the upper middle start winning device 632 or the start winning device 632.

  A flow restriction part 623 is provided below the distribution device 622. The flow restriction part 623 is configured as an inclined surface whose upper surface is inclined downward from right to left. The inclined surfaces of the flow restricting portion 623 are in contact with the back surfaces of the decorations 611, 612, and 613 and the main body side front surface of the central structure 420 at each end in the longitudinal direction. Thereby, the game ball distributed outside the upper middle start winning device 632 by the distribution device 622 falls on the flow restriction part 623 and moves leftward on the inclined surface of the flow restriction part 623 (in the direction of the arrow Q3). ). As a result, the game ball enters the left game area (that is, the game area from the left side with respect to the central structure 420).

  Here, the distribution device 622 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a region E1 in FIG. As shown in FIG. 14, the sorting device 622 mainly includes a left sorting passage 622A, a right sorting passage 622B, and a stage 622C. The left distribution passage 622A is a passage that guides the game ball that has entered from the passage port 621 to the left. On the other hand, the right distribution passage 622B is a passage that guides the game ball that has entered from the passage port 621 to the right.

  The stage 622C is provided on each downstream side of the left distribution passage 622A and the right distribution passage 622B. Thereby, when the game ball passes through the left distribution path 622A, the game ball P enters from the left side of the stage 622C and rolls on the stage 622C, for example, as shown in FIG. On the other hand, the game ball that has passed through the right distribution path 622B enters from the right side of the stage 622C and rolls on the stage 622C.

  The stage 622C is provided with a recess 622D at substantially the center thereof. A recess 622E and a recess 622F are provided on the left and right sides of the recess 622D, respectively. Each of the recesses 622D, 622E, and 622F is configured to allow the game ball to fall from the front side thereof (that is, the side that is the front of the gaming machine). Thereby, the game ball rolling on the stage 622C falls forward from the stage 622C via any one of the recesses 622D, 622E, and 622F.

  An upper middle start winning device 632 is provided in front of the stage 622C. The upper middle start winning device 632 is configured to be capable of reciprocating in the left-right direction by a drive device (not shown). Therefore, when the upper middle start winning device 632 that reciprocates is at an appropriate position at the timing when the game ball falls from the stage 622C via any one of the recesses 622D, 622E, and 622F, the upper middle start winning device 632 is the stage. A game ball falling from 622C is received, whereby the game ball enters the upper middle start winning device 632. As described above, the upper middle start winning device 632 is a start winning device according to the second special symbol, like the right start winning device 432. Therefore, when the game ball that has entered the upper middle start winning device 632 is detected by the second start winning switch 642, the start winning of the second special symbol is made.

  On the other hand, if the upper middle start winning device 632 is not in an appropriate position and the game ball that has dropped from the stage 622C cannot enter the upper middle start winning device 632, the game ball flows down as described above. As a result, the game ball rolls leftward (in the direction of arrow Q3) on the inclined surface of the flow restricting portion 623 and is discharged to the left game area.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the moving path of the game balls distributed in the left or right direction (arrow Q1 or arrow Q2 direction) by the roof 611B will be described. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the top panel decoration 611, the upper left front decoration 612, and the upper right front decoration 613 as viewed from the back side. FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the central structure 420 when the decoration bodies 611A, 612A, and 613A are removed from the decorations 611, 612, and 613, respectively. Note that the decoration main bodies 611A, 612A, and 613A are parts that function as decoration means visually recognized by the player in the top board decoration 611, the upper left front decoration 612, and the upper right front decoration 613.

  As shown in FIG. 15, passage walls 612 </ b> B and 612 </ b> C extending downward are erected on the back surface of the ornament main body 612 </ b> A of the upper left front ornament 612 while being spaced apart by a predetermined width. As a result, a left-flow downward passage 652 continuous in the vertical direction is formed between the passage wall 612B and the passage wall 612C. That is, the left downstream passage 652 functions as a warp path formed inside the central structure 420. Therefore, the game balls that roll on the roof 611B in the direction of the arrow Q1 (that is, game balls distributed to the left side by the roof 611B) are guided to the downflow passage 652 that is the warp route, and flow down the left downflow passage 652.

  As shown in FIG. 16, a flow restriction part 623 is provided downstream of the left flow path 652. Therefore, the game ball that flows down the left flow path 652 falls on the flow restriction part 623. As a result, the game ball rolls leftward (in the direction of arrow Q3) on the inclined surface of the flow restricting portion 623. That is, the game balls distributed to the left side by the roof 611B flow down the left flow passage 652, roll to the left on the inclined surface of the flow restriction part 623, and are discharged to the left game area.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15, passage walls 613 </ b> B and 613 </ b> C that extend downward are erected on the back surface of the decoration main body 613 </ b> A of the upper right front decoration 613 so as to be separated by a predetermined width. As a result, a right-flow downward passage 653 that is continuous in the vertical direction is formed between the passage wall 613B and the passage wall 613C. In other words, the right downflow passage 653 also functions as a warp path formed inside the central structure 420. Therefore, the game balls that roll on the roof 611B in the direction of the arrow Q2 (that is, game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B) are guided to the right flow passage 653 that is the warp route and flow down the right flow passage 653. .

  Then, the game ball flowing down the right flow path 653 falls on the flow restriction part 623 and rolls leftward (in the direction of the arrow Q3) on the inclined surface. That is, the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B flow down the right flow passage 653, then roll to the left on the inclined surface of the flow restriction portion 623, and are discharged to the left game area.

  Thus, according to the pachinko machine 100 of the present embodiment, even the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B are allowed to enter the left game area by passing through the right flow path 653 and the flow restriction part 623. be able to.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, in the pachinko machine 100, between the passage wall 612B and the passage wall 612C, plate-like protrusions 612D projecting from the back surface of the decoration body 612A are provided, the passage wall 612B and the passage wall 612C. It is provided substantially parallel to the wall surface.

  The protrusion 612D has a bottom surface (a surface in contact with the back surface of the decoration main body 612A) formed in a substantially rectangular shape extending in the continuous direction (that is, the vertical direction) of the left-flowing passage 652, and adjacent to the longitudinal side of the bottom surface. Side surfaces (that is, surfaces that are substantially parallel to the wall surfaces of the passage wall 612B and the passage wall 612C) are formed in a substantially trapezoid shape whose width becomes narrower as the distance from the back surface of the decorative body 612A increases. In other words, the protrusion 612D is configured to have a shape in which the height from the bottom surface, which is the installation surface with respect to the decoration body 612A, gradually increases from the end in the longitudinal direction of the bottom toward the inside. A plurality of protrusions 612D (five in the example shown in FIG. 15) are arranged side by side in a direction that intersects the continuous direction of the left downstream passage 652.

  As shown in FIG. 16, a recess 652A corresponding to the shape of the protrusion 612D is formed on the surface facing the protrusion 612D in the left downstream passage 652. Therefore, the game ball flowing down the left downflow passage 652 is not vertically dropped, but is a path formed by the protrusion 612D and the recess 652A, that is, once toward the back side (the bottom side of the recess 652A) and then toward the front side. Take the route back.

  As shown in FIG. 15, a plurality of protrusions 613D similar to the protrusions 612D are also provided between the passage wall 613B and the passage wall 613C on the back surface of the decoration body 613A of the upper right front decoration 613. In addition, as shown in FIG. 16, a recess 653A corresponding to the shape of the protrusion 613D is formed on the surface of the right-flowing passage 653 that faces the protrusion 613D. Therefore, also in the right downflow passage 653, the game ball is formed by the protrusion 613D and the concave portion 653A, and is once on the near side (bottom side of the concave portion 653A), similarly to the left downflow passage 652. Take the route back.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, a protrusion 612 </ b> E that is elongated in a direction intersecting with the continuous direction of the left downstream passage 652 is formed on the back surface of the decorative main body 612 </ b> A on the downstream side of the left downstream passage 652. . On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 16, on the main body side front surface of the central structure 420, at the position downstream of the protrusion 612E, the direction intersecting with the continuous direction of the left downflow passage 652 is the same as that of the protrusion 612E. An elongated protrusion 652B is formed. As a result, the game ball flows down the left downflow passage 652 while colliding with the protrusions 612E and 652B. Since the mechanical energy of the game ball decreases due to the collision with the protrusions 612E and 652B, the collision between the game ball and the flow-down restricting unit 623 can be eased.

  The curved shape of the roof 611B is configured substantially symmetrically for the purpose of smoothing the left / right distribution of the game balls. On the other hand, the inclined surface of the flow restricting portion 623 is configured to be inclined downward from right to left. Therefore, inevitably, the distance until the game ball discharged from the left end of the roof 611B and flowing down the left flow passage 652 reaches the flow restriction portion 623 is discharged from the right end of the roof 611B and the right flow passage 653 game ball It becomes longer than the distance to reach the flow-down restricting portion 623. Therefore, there is a difference in energy when the game ball falls (collides) on the flow-down restricting portion 623 when the game ball is discharged from the left end of the roof 611B and when the game ball is discharged from the right end of the roof 611B. Therefore, there is a possibility that the behavior of the game ball dropped on the flow restriction part 623 becomes non-uniform due to this.

  On the other hand, as described above, the protrusions 612E and 652B that are not located downstream of the right flow passage 653 are provided downstream of the left flow passage 652 where the flow distance of the game ball is longer than that of the right flow passage 653. Therefore, even if the game balls are distributed to either the left or right side of the roof 611B, the behavior of the game balls dropped on the flow-down restricting unit 623 can be smoothed.

  Next, in the pachinko machine 100, an operation and an effect related to a change in the moving direction of the game ball made by the central structure 420 will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 100, as described above, the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B can be allowed to enter the left game area by passing through the right flow path 653 and the flow restriction part 623.

  In the conventional typical gaming machine, the game balls distributed to the right side by the distribution unit provided on the upper part of the central structure flow down on the right side, and the game balls distributed on the left side flow down on the left side as it is. Therefore, the behavior of the game balls distributed by the distribution unit also affects the downstream position of the game balls. Therefore, in a conventional gaming machine, when a start winning device such as the lower middle start winning device 431 is provided in the left game area (that is, the left game area) with respect to the central structure, The game ball is fired so that the left game area is aimed directly (left-handed game technique) or the game ball is distributed to the left side by the distribution unit. In this way, with conventional gaming machines, the starting point of the game balls that the player aims at is uniform, and a large number of game balls flow down on one side where a game-related privilege such as a start winning device is likely to be given. The player's launching operation was easy to be limited and lacked surprisingness.

  On the other hand, according to the pachinko machine 100, even if the player launches a game ball aiming at the right side far from the entrance of the game area (that is, the exit of the launch passage 401B), the game ball is moved to the left game area. Can flow down. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the positions targeted by the player by the launch operation, and to provide unexpectedness. Thereby, the interest of a game can be improved suitably.

  In addition, even if a launch operation is performed so that many game balls flow down to the right side in the game area, the game balls can be returned to the left game area by the right flow path 653 and the flow restriction part 623. In addition to aiming at the entrance of the game ball to the passage port 621 in the central structure 420 from the left side, the game ball is left side game area even if many game balls flow down from the right side aiming at the entrance to the passage port 621. A privilege related to the game can be given by being guided to. In this respect as well, the interest of the game can be improved suitably.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 100, it is possible to enter the upper middle start winning device 632 on the condition that the game ball has entered the passing port 621 in the central structure 420. In other words, the game ball does not enter the upper middle start winning device 632 without entering the passage port 621. Therefore, when a game ball is launched from the right side so as to aim at the entrance to the passing port 621, the gaming ball does not enter the passing port 621, and the opportunity to enter the upper middle start winning device 632 is lost. However, since the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B, the possibility of passing to the lower middle start winning device 431 occurs. Thereby, the disappointment of the player due to the loss of the opportunity to enter the upper middle start winning device 632 can be reduced, and the entertainment of the game can be improved in this respect as well.

  In the pachinko machine 100, the central structure 420 is provided above the lower middle start winning device 431 in the front view of the pachinko machine 100 (see FIG. 7). As a result, the roof 611B of the top panel decoration 611 is positioned so as to overlap with the lower middle starting prize-winning device 431 in the vertical direction, so that the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B have the flow restriction part 623. By passing and moving to the left side, the lower middle start winning device 431 is reached through a substantially S-shaped moving path. Therefore, since the moving path from which the game ball distributed to the right side by the roof 611B reaches the lower middle start winning device 431 is different from the path that simply flows down, Clearly conscious. Thereby, even if the player aims at the side away from the left game area (that is, the right side) and fires the game ball, the game ball may pass through the lower middle start winning device 431. Since the launch operation can be performed while clearly grasping, a game in which the launch operation is aimed at the right side can be suitably enjoyed.

  Here, the decorative symbol display device 479 for displaying a decorative symbol corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery based on the start winning of the first special symbol or the second special symbol lottery based on the starting winning of the second special symbol is provided. In the front view of the pachinko machine 100, the pachinko machine 100 is provided between the roof 611B and the lower middle start winning device 431. That is, the decorative symbol corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery is displayed between the roof 611B and the lower middle start winning device 431. Thus, when the game ball is distributed to the right side by the roof 611B, the player follows the movement path of the game ball, and when the game ball enters the lower middle start winning device 431, Is raised upward from the position of the lower middle start winning device 431, so that the decorative symbol corresponding to the result of the lottery (that is, the first special symbol lottery) based on the game ball entering the lower middle start winning device 431 Can be visually recognized. After confirming the state of the decorative symbol display device 479, the player can visually recognize again how the game balls are distributed on the roof 611B located above the decorative symbol display device 479. Therefore, it can suppress that a player's gaze is swung around.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 100, when a game ball enters the passing port 621 in the central structure 420, the game ball is guided to the stage 622C, and the upper middle start winning device 632 or the start winning device is operated by the stage 622C. Sorted out of 632. If the game ball has entered the passing port 621 and has not been distributed to the upper middle start winning device 632, the game ball falls onto the flow-down restricting portion 623 and is discharged to the left game area. Thereby, even if the player cannot enter the game ball into the upper middle start prize device 632, the game ball may be allowed to enter the lower middle start prize device 431 in the left game area. You can expect to not do it.

  In particular, even when the game ball falls from the recess (recess 622D or recess 622F) on the right side with respect to the position of the upper middle start winning device 632 that reciprocates in the left-right direction, the game ball is moved to the left game area. Since the guidance is possible, the player may enter the lower middle start winning device 431 with respect to the game ball moving along the unexpected path while having unexpectedness with respect to the movement path of the game ball. We can have the expectation that there is no.

  Further, in the conventional typical gaming machine, when the gaming ball that has entered the entry portion such as the passage port 621 does not pass through the advantageous area such as the upper middle start winning device 632, the gaming ball is a pachinko machine. 100 was discharged to the outside. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 100, even if the game ball that has entered the passage port 621 does not enter the upper middle start winning device 632, the game ball is not discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 100, Again, a chance to enter the lower middle start winning device 431 is given. Therefore, the disappointment of the player due to the game ball entering the passing port 621 not entering the upper middle start winning device 632 can be reduced, and in this respect, the interest of the game can be improved. .

<Behavior of the game ball according to the position where it falls to the flow-down regulating unit 623>
Next, with reference mainly to FIG. 17, the behavior of the game ball according to the drop position on the flow restriction part 623 will be described. FIG. 17 is a front view of the partial cross-sectional view of FIG. In FIG. 17, the general winning device 639 arranged in the left game area (that is, the game area from the left side with respect to the central structure 420) is also illustrated.

  As described above, the game balls distributed to the left side or the right side by the roof 611B flow down the left flow path 652 or the right flow path 653, and then move leftward on the inclined surface of the flow restriction part 623 (arrow Q3 direction: FIG. 16) and discharged to the left game area. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, the flow restriction part 623 is configured such that the longitudinal direction of the inclined surface provided on the upper surface thereof is longer than the width in the left-right direction of the roof 611 </ b> B. Therefore, when the game ball is distributed to the left side by the roof 611B (that is, when the game ball flows down the left flow path 652), and when the game ball is distributed to the right side by the roof 611B (that is, the game ball is left) The position at which the game ball falls on the flow-down restricting portion 623 differs in the case of flowing down the flow-down passage 652.

  Specifically, when the game balls are distributed to the left side by the roof 611B, the side close to the outlet 623A, which is the left end of the flow-down restricting portion 623, is the game ball drop position. On the other hand, when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B, the side far from the outlet 623A (that is, the side close to the right end of the flow restriction part 623) is the game ball drop position.

  Since the inclined surface of the flow-down restricting portion 623 is configured to be inclined downward from right to left, the height (vertical direction length) with respect to the position of the outlet increases as the distance from the outlet 623A (that is, the left end of the inclined surface) increases. Become. Therefore, the farther the falling position of the game ball onto the flow-down restricting portion 623 is from the position of the exit of the flow-down restricting portion 623, the higher the height of the drop position with respect to the outlet.

  That is, the height of the drop position with respect to the exit differs depending on the direction in which the game balls are distributed by the roof 611B. For example, a game ball distributed to the right side by the roof 611B falls to a higher position with respect to the exit than when distributed to the left side. Therefore, the acceleration mode of the game balls discharged from the outlet of the flow-down restricting unit 623 can be varied according to the distribution direction of the game balls by the roof 611B.

  Specifically, when the game balls are distributed to the left side by the roof 611B and flow down the left flow path 652, the drop point to the flow restriction part 623 is closer to the outlet 623A, and the height with respect to the outlet 623A is relatively Low. Therefore, the game balls discharged from the outlet 623A in such a case tend to have a relatively small acceleration. On the other hand, when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B and flow down the right flow passage 653, the falling point to the flow restriction part 623 is far from the outlet 623A, and the height with respect to the outlet 623A is relatively high. Therefore, in such a case, the acceleration of the game ball discharged from the outlet 623A tends to be relatively large.

  Therefore, when the game balls are distributed to the left side by the roof 611B, the game balls discharged from the outlet 623A of the flow restriction part 623 can easily take the trajectory J1 flowing down on the side closer to the central structure 420. On the other hand, when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B, the game balls discharged from the outlet 623A of the flow restriction part 623 flow down on the side far from the central structure 420 (that is, the side far from the track J1). It is easy to take the trajectory J2.

  The game ball discharged from the outlet 623A of the flow restriction part 623 enters the left game area. A general winning device 639 is arranged above the left game area (see FIG. 7). More specifically, the general winning device 639 is disposed in the left game area, in the vicinity of the outlet 623A of the flow-down restricting portion 623, slightly to the left with respect to the outlet 623A.

  By arranging the general winning device 639 at a position slightly to the left of the exit 623A, the possibility that the game ball discharged from the flow-down restricting unit 623 enters the general winning device 639 has passed through the track J2. In this case, it becomes higher than the case of passing through the track J1. Therefore, the farther the drop point to the flow-down restricting unit 623 is from the exit, the higher the possibility that the game ball can enter the general winning device 639. That is, in the case of the pachinko machine 100 of the present embodiment, the possibility of entering the general winning device 639 is higher when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B.

  Next, in the pachinko machine 100, the action and effect related to the behavior of the game ball according to the drop position on the flow-down regulating unit 623 will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 100, the flow restriction part 623 is configured so that the acceleration mode of the game balls discharged from the flow restriction part 623 to the left game area differs depending on the position where the game ball is received. For example, the acceleration mode of the game balls discharged to the left game area differs depending on whether the game balls are distributed to the right side or the left side by the roof 611B. On the other hand, the general winning device 639 is provided at a position where the possibility of passing differs according to the position of the game ball received by the flow-down restricting unit 623. Thereby, according to the position of the game ball received by the flow-down restricting unit 623, the possibility that the player can receive a privilege related to the game can be changed.

  In general, the entry of a game ball into an advantageous area such as the general winning device 639 is easily determined by the arrangement of a flow changing member such as a nail provided in the vicinity of the advantageous area. The behavior has little effect on the entry into the advantageous area. Therefore, there is a problem that the player is only interested in the behavior of the game ball in a part of the game area. However, in the pachinko machine 100, as described above, the game ball received by the flow-down regulating unit 623 Depending on the position of the player, the possibility that the player can receive the benefits related to the game can be changed, so that the player can enjoy the game of moving the game ball in the flow restriction part 623, thereby It is possible to suitably improve the interest of the game. Further, since the possibility that the player can receive a privilege related to the game can be changed according to the direction in which the game balls are distributed by the roof 611B, the interest of the game in which the game balls are distributed by the roof 611B can be improved.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 100, the general winning device 639 is disposed at a position slightly on the left side with respect to the outlet 623A of the flow restriction part 623. That is, the possibility of entering the general winning device 639 is higher when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B. Therefore, it is possible to improve the interest in launching the game ball aiming at a predetermined position such as a position where the roof 611B can be distributed to the right side.

  In addition, the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B and a part of the game balls distributed by the stage 622C both pass through the flow restriction part 623. For this reason, the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B may pass through the track J2, but may be blocked by the game balls distributed by the stage 622C. Since the timing at which game balls are discharged from the stage 622C varies and is difficult to predict, even if the player aims for the progress of the game balls on the trajectory J2, some of the game balls have been discharged from the stage 622C. A situation occurs that is blocked by a sphere. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the right portion of the central upper game area from being extremely advantageous as compared to the left portion.

<Functions of the protrusions 612D and 613D>
Next, functions of the protrusions 612D and 613D will be described with reference mainly to FIGS. FIG. 18 is a front view of the central structure 420. As shown in FIG. 18, an upper left front ornament 612 and an upper right front ornament 613 are provided on the left and right of the upper part of the front side of the central structure 420.

  In the upper left front ornament 612, the ornament main body 612A whose front side is visually recognized by the player is made of a light transmissive material with a transparent or semi-transparent surface. On the back side of the decoration main body 612A, a light emitting body is disposed as a board surface light emitting device 490 (see FIG. 10), and the light transmitted through the front surface side of the decoration main body 612A is transmitted through the game board 400 by emitting the light emitting body. decorate. That is, the upper left front decoration 612 has a function as a decoration means for decorating the game board 400.

  On the other hand, the decoration main body 613A of the upper right front decoration 613 is also configured as a hollow body made of a light transmissive material having a transparent or semi-transparent surface, like the decoration main body 612A. Therefore, the upper right front decoration 613 also functions as a decoration means for applying decoration to the game board 400, like the upper left front decoration 612.

  In particular, since the surfaces of the decoration main bodies 612A and 613A are configured as undulation surfaces (decoration undulation surfaces) on the side facing the player (that is, the front side), the upper left front decoration 612 and the upper right front decoration 613 are used. The decoration function is enhanced.

  Similarly to the front surface, the back surfaces of the decoration bodies 612A and 613A are also made of a transparent or translucent material that can transmit light. Therefore, when the player sees the upper left front decoration 612 and the upper right front decoration 613 from the front side, the player can visually recognize the back side (that is, the back side of the back surfaces of the decoration main bodies 612A and 613A).

  As described above, since the flow-down passages 652 and 653 are provided on the back sides of the decoration bodies 612A and 613A (see FIGS. 15 and 16), the player can pass the warp route through the decoration bodies 612A and 613A. It is possible to visually recognize the game balls flowing down the downflow passages 652 and 653 arranged in the central structure 420. Therefore, the player can grasp the state in which the game balls distributed to either the right side or the left side by the roof 611B move through the warp route by visually recognizing through the decoration main bodies 612A and 613A.

  However, as described above, each front decoration 612, 613 has a function as a decoration means, and emits light as necessary. Therefore, the visibility of each back side of the decoration main bodies 612A, 613A deteriorates. It becomes difficult for the player to specify the position of the downflow passages 652 and 653. Accordingly, it becomes difficult for the player to grasp the whereabouts of the game balls distributed by the roof 611B. In particular, since the surfaces of the decorative bodies 612A and 613A are configured as undulating surfaces, the emitted light is scattered on the undulating surfaces, and the visibility of each back side of the decorative bodies 612A and 613A is significantly deteriorated.

  On the other hand, protrusions 612D and 613D that extend in the continuous direction of the downflow passages 652 and 653 are provided in the downflow passages 652 and 653 on the back surfaces of the decoration bodies 612A and 613A (more specifically, the back side of the back surfaces). Is provided (see FIG. 15). Therefore, the decorative bodies 612A and 613A are less likely to transmit light in the portions where the protrusions 612D and 613D are provided compared to the other portions. The decoration main bodies 612A and 613A emit light by a light emitter provided on the back side thereof, and the protrusions 612D and 613D have a larger thickness in the front-rear direction than other parts, so that it is difficult for light to pass through. This is because the rear surfaces of the projections 612D and 613D are inclined in the front-rear direction, so that light from the rear side does not easily enter the projections 612D and 613D. Therefore, even when the front decorations 612 and 613 emit light, the player can visually recognize the portions where the protrusions 612D and 613D are provided as darker portions than the other portions.

  As described above, the bottom surfaces of the protrusions 612D and 613D (the surfaces of the decorative body 612A and the surfaces in contact with the back surface of 613A) are formed in a substantially rectangular shape extending in the continuous direction of the downflow passages 652 and 653. A dark part will be visually recognized as a line extending in the continuous direction of the downflow passages 652 and 653. Therefore, the player can specify the position of the downflow passages 652 and 653 based on the dark part. Thus, the protrusions 612D and 613D function as passage display means for displaying the downflow passages 652 and 653.

  In particular, as described above, the surfaces of the decorative main bodies 612A and 613A are configured as undulating surfaces, which enhances the decorative effect by light while deteriorating the visibility of each back side of the decorative main bodies 612A and 613A. Are provided with protrusions 612D and 613D that function as passage display means for displaying the downflow passages 652 and 653, so that the warp route ( The visibility of the downflow passages 652 and 653) can be secured satisfactorily.

  In addition, since a plurality of protrusions 612D and 613D are provided in a direction intersecting the continuous direction of the flow-down passages 652 and 653, the player can visually recognize a plurality of muscles as a dark portion, It is easy to specify the positions of the passages 652 and 653.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the flow-down passage. More specifically, FIG. 19 is a diagram in which a portion of the right flow passage 653 is extracted from the cross-sectional view taken along the line XA-XA in FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, the right downward flow path 653 is configured as a meandering path by a protrusion 613D and a recess 653A formed on a surface facing the protrusion 613D.

  As a result, the game ball flowing down the right downflow passage 653 flows down along a path meandering to the back side of the central structure 420 (that is, the bottom side of the recess 652A), not vertically falling. By causing the game ball to meander and flow down, the game ball flows down while colliding with the right flow path 653, thereby reducing the flow speed of the game ball. That is, the protrusion 613D has a function as a speed reduction unit. The left downstream passage 652 is also configured as a meandering path similar to FIG. Therefore, the protrusion 612D also functions as a speed reduction unit similar to the protrusion 613D.

  FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a region E2 in FIG. The right downflow passage 653 has a passage width W1 in the left-right direction, that is, a separation distance between the passage wall 613B and the passage wall 613C is a distance that allows two game balls to pass simultaneously. By adopting such a width, it is possible to suppress the clogging of the ball in the right flow down passage 653.

  On the other hand, in the right downflow passage 653, the width (length in a direction intersecting the continuous direction of the right downflow passage 653) W2 divided by the protrusion 613D is the diameter of the game ball (the width of the game ball). Narrower distance. As a result, the game balls flowing down the right flow down passage 653 are rectified by the adjacent protrusions 613D. That is, the protrusion 613D functions as a rectifying unit.

  In this way, since the flowing game balls are rectified by the protrusions 613D, even when two game balls pass through the right flow passage 653 almost simultaneously, it is possible to suppress clogging by the game balls. it can. The left downstream passage 652 is also configured in the same manner as in FIG. Therefore, the protrusion 612D also functions as a rectifier similar to the protrusion 613D.

  Next, in the pachinko machine 100, the operation and effect relating to the arrangement of the protrusions 612D and 613D will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 100, projections 612D and 613D that function as passage display means are provided on the back surfaces of the decoration bodies 612A and 613A. Even if it is, it is easy to grasp the presence of the right and left flow paths 652 and 653 before the game is started (that is, before the game ball enters the left game area including the lower middle start winning device 431). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling distrust or irritation with respect to the game ball that has entered the game ball passage, so that the player can enjoy the game that is started by entering the game ball into the game ball passage. Can do. Thereby, it becomes possible to improve the entertainment of a game suitably.

  The left and right downflow passages 652 and 653 are passages through which the game balls distributed to the left and right by the roof 611B are passed, respectively, and a downflow restricting portion 623 is provided downstream of the downflow passages 652 and 653, The game balls that have passed through the downflow passages 652 and 653 roll on the downflow restricting portion 623 and are discharged to the left game area. At this time, the game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B pass through the right flow passage 653 and then roll from the side close to the right end of the flow restriction portion 623 to the outlet 623A. Therefore, when the game balls are distributed to the right side by the roof 611B, the game balls pass through a relatively long route before entering the left game area. In the pachinko machine 100, as described above, since it is easy to grasp the presence of the right downward passage 653 before the start of the game, the player is made to feel distrust with the game ball that has entered the relatively long route. Can be suitably suppressed.

  In the pachinko machine 100, the protrusions 612D and 613D function as speed reducing means in the meandering portion formed together with the recess 652A, while the protrusions 612D and 613D function as rectifying means. Ball clogging can be suppressed.

  In addition, this invention is not restricted to the said embodiment, For example, you may deform | transform and implement as described below. In this case, each configuration described below may be applied to the above embodiment, or a plurality of configurations described below may be combined and applied to the above embodiment.

  (1) In the embodiment described above, the flow-down restricting unit 623 is configured to receive the game balls distributed by the roof 611B and the sorting device 622, but the flow-down regulating unit 623 is not necessarily provided with the roof 611B and the sorting device 622. It is not necessary to be configured to receive the game balls distributed by. For example, it may be configured to directly receive a game ball flowing down the upper game area.

  (2) In the above embodiment, the game balls distributed to the left or right side by the roof 611B are all discharged to the left game area via the flow restriction part 623. However, the game balls distributed to the right side Is not necessarily passed through the flow-down restricting portion 623. For example, game balls distributed to the right side by the roof 611B may be discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 100.

  In recent years, the size and arrangement of the area where the game balls flow down in the game area tends to be limited due to an increase in the size of the central structure, etc. However, like the pachinko machine 100 of the above embodiment, the roof 611B Since the game balls distributed to the left and right are guided to the common game area (ie, the left game area), the limited game area can be used effectively.

  (3) In the above embodiment, the game balls are distributed to each of the roof 611B (first distribution unit) and the distribution device 622 (second distribution unit), but both of these distribution units are not necessarily provided. There is no need to provide it. For example, the distribution unit may be only the roof 611B. In this case, it may be configured such that the start winning of the second special symbol is established based on the game ball entering the passing port 621.

  (4) In the above embodiment, the roof 611B having an upwardly convex curved shape is adopted as the first distribution unit that distributes the game balls flowing down the upper game area, but the shape of the first distribution unit Is not necessarily limited to the upwardly convex curved shape. For example, it may be a stage or a croon that distributes the first distribution unit to one of the left side, the right side, and the passage. Or it is good also as a structure which distributes a game ball to either the left side, the right side, or a passage by the movement of a movable object using the movable object which moves to a predetermined direction.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the game balls distributed to the left and right by the roof 611B are guided to the left game area by the flow restriction part 623, but the destination guided by the flow restriction part 623 is not necessarily The game area on the side close to the entrance of the game area (that is, the exit of the launch passage 401B), that is, the left game area that is the game area from the left side with respect to the central structure 420 need not be limited.

  For example, when the entrance of the game area is provided on the right side, that is, when the game ball is launched from the right side, the flow-down restricting unit 623 sends the game ball distributed by the roof 611B to the central structure 420. Alternatively, the game area may be guided to the game area from the right side (hereinafter also referred to as “right game area”). Also in this modified example, as with the pachinko machine 100 of the above-described embodiment, the game balls distributed to the side far from the entrance of the game area (that is, the left side) are used as the game area on the side close to the entrance. Can enter.

  (6) In the above embodiment, the game balls distributed to the left and right by the roof 611B are guided to the left game area by the common flow restriction part 623. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the configuration may be such that the game ball falls to different flow restriction parts when the game ball is distributed to the left side by the roof 611 and when the game ball is distributed to the right side.

  In the present modification, the flow-down restricting portion where the game balls distributed to the left fall and the flow-down restricting portion where the game balls distributed to the right fall, even if the inclined surfaces have the same inclination angle, Different tilt angles may be used. By making the inclination angles of the inclined surfaces of the flow restricting portions different, the acceleration mode of the game balls discharged from the outlets of the respective flow restricting portions can be varied.

  In addition, the flow-down restricting portion where the game balls distributed to the left fall and the flow-down restricting portion where the game balls distributed to the right fall are arranged in a substantially C shape when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 100. Good. In such a case, the game is discharged to the left game area or the right game area depending on the distribution direction.

  (7) In the above embodiment, the flow restriction part 623 is configured such that the inclined surface is inclined downward from right to left. However, as long as the game ball can move to the left side by its own weight on the flow restriction part 623. However, it is not necessarily limited to the downward slope from the right to the left. For example, the slope of the flow restriction part 623 may have a curved or wavy shape that allows the game ball to move to the left side under its own weight on the flow restriction part 623. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which carries a game ball to the left side game area | region by the movement of a movable body.

  (8) In the above embodiment, the upper middle start winning device 632 is configured to reciprocate in the left-right direction. However, the upper middle start winning device 632 is not necessarily configured to be movable. For example, the upper middle start winning device 632 may be fixedly provided at a predetermined position (that is, not moved).

  (9) In the above embodiment, the game ball that has entered the upper middle start winning device 632 is discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 100. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the upper middle start winning device 632 may be configured to pass through in the direction facing the entrance, and the game ball that has entered the upper middle start winning device 632 may be dropped onto the flow-down regulating unit 623. According to this modification, it is possible not only to enter the upper middle start winning device 632 but also to enter the lower middle start winning device 431 in the left game area.

  (10) In the above embodiment, the upper middle start winning device 632 is configured as a start winning device related to the second special symbol. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, for example, the upper middle start winning device 632 is simply awarded. You may comprise as a general prize-winning apparatus which concerns on provision of a ball | bowl.

  (11) In the above embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 612D and 613D are provided in a direction intersecting with the continuous direction of the left and right downflow passages 652 and 653, but the number of installations is not necessarily limited. There is no need to limit. For example, one protrusion 612D and 613D may be provided in each of the flow-down passages 652 and 653. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the number of protrusions 612D and 613D provided in each of the downflow passages 652 and 653 is five, but the number is not limited as long as at least one is provided.

  (12) In the above embodiment, the protrusions 612D and 613D are erected on the back sides of the decorative bodies 612A and 613A, and the portion corresponding to the bottom surface of the protrusions 612D and 613D is visually recognized as a dark portion, thereby Although it is configured to function, the function as the passage display unit is not necessarily limited to being visually recognized as a dark part. For example, it is good also as a structure which draws the stripe | line | column extended in the continuous direction of the downflow path 652,653 with the coloring agent with low light transmittance on each back side of decoration main body 612A, 613A. Or it is good also as a structure which makes a player visually recognize the line | wire which extends in the continuous direction of the flow-down channel | paths 652 and 653 by making it light-emit so that distinction from the light which decorates decoration main body 612A, 613A.

  (13) In the above embodiment, the continuously extending (that is, a series of) streaks caused by the bottom surfaces of the protrusions 612D and 613D are configured to be visually recognized by the player as the passage display unit. There is no need. For example, the passage display unit may be configured so that a player visually recognizes a line extending intermittently (that is, dotted line) in the continuous direction of the downflow passages 652 and 653 as the passage display unit.

  (14) In the above embodiment, the protrusions 612D and 613D are provided inside the central structure 420, more specifically, the left and right downflow passages 652 and 653 provided on the back side of the upper left front ornament 612 and the upper right front ornament 613. The passage display is used, but the passage display by the passage display unit is not necessarily limited to the passage provided in the central structure 420. For example, it is good also as a structure which performs channel | path display by channel | path display parts, such as a projection part, about the channel | path passing through the back side of structures other than the center structure 420. FIG.

  (15) In the above embodiment, the passage display using the protrusions 612D and 613D is performed on the flow-down passages 652 and 653 extending in the vertical direction in the front view of the pachinko machine 100. Is not necessarily limited to a passage extending in the vertical direction. For example, for a passage having a shape that allows the game ball to reach the exit by its own weight, such as a passage extending from the upper left to the lower right, passage display by a passage display unit such as a protrusion may be performed.

  (16) In the above embodiment, the surface of the decorative body 612A, 613A is configured as a undulating surface, but it is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the surfaces of the decoration bodies 612A and 613A may be smooth surfaces without undulations.

  (17) In the above embodiment, the decorative symbol display device 479 responds to the result of the first special symbol lottery based on the first special symbol starting prize or the second special symbol lottery based on the second special symbol starting prize. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the decorative symbol display device 479 displays a decorative symbol corresponding to the result of the first special symbol lottery based on the start winning of the first special symbol, and the second special symbol lottery based on the start winning of the second special symbol. The result may be displayed on another display device.

  (18) In the above embodiment, the general winning device 639 is provided at a position where the possibility of passing differs depending on the position of the game ball received by the flow-down restricting unit 623, but the game ball received by the flow-down restricting unit 623 The device provided at the position where the possibility of passing differs depending on the position of the game is not necessarily limited to the general winning device. For example, a game ball received by the flow-down restricting unit 623 is a start winning device (ie, a start winning device related to a special symbol) that is given a right to draw based on entering, such as the lower middle start winning device 431. It is good also as a structure provided in the position where passage possibility differs according to a position.

  (19) In the above embodiment, the case where the entrance (passage port 621) of the upper middle start winning device 632 is provided on the upper side of the distribution part (first distribution part) by the roof 611B has been described. It is not necessary to provide at the position, and it may be configured to be provided on the side (right side or left side) of the upper middle start winning device 632 corresponding to the downstream side of the sorting portion by the roof 611B, and the number of entrances is limited to one. It may be two or more.

  (20) You may implement this invention in the pachinko machine etc. of a type different from the said embodiment. For example, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine in which the big hit expectation value is increased until the big hit state is generated a plurality of times (for example, twice or three times) including the big hit. Further, it may be implemented as a pachinko machine that enters a special gaming state on the condition that a ball wins a predetermined area after a big hit symbol is displayed. Moreover, you may implement in the enclosed pachinko machine with which a ball | bowl circulates. Further, in addition to the pachinko machine, the present invention may be implemented as various game machines such as an arrangement ball type pachinko machine and a sparrow ball. Further, the present invention is not limited to a pachinko machine and may be applied to a slot machine, or may be applied to a game machine such as a parrot of a type in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are integrated.

<Invention extracted from the above embodiment>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group extracted from the above-described embodiment will be described while showing problems and effects as necessary. In the following, for easy understanding, the corresponding configuration in each of the above embodiments is appropriately indicated in parentheses, but is not limited to the specific configuration indicated in parentheses. In addition, the meanings and examples of terms described in each feature may be applied as the meanings and examples of terms described in other features described in the same wording.

<Feature 10>
A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming balls flow through a predetermined entrance,
The game ball flowing down the game area has an entry part (passage port 621) into which the game ball can enter, and the game ball flowing down the game area is a side closer to the entrance of the game area in a front view of the gaming machine. Or a distribution portion (roof 611B) that distributes to the second side that is far from the entrance of the gaming area in the front view of the gaming machine,
A game ball distributed to the second side by the distribution unit is a specific game area formed on the first side with respect to the distribution unit (from the left side to the central structure 420 on the downstream side). A first route (a right flow passage 653, a flow restriction part 623) that guides to the lower middle start winning device 431),
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  In a conventional typical gaming machine, a game ball launched in response to a player's operation enters a game area formed on the game board, and flows down the game area. When a game ball flowing down the game area enters the starting port, a lottery is performed according to the ball. A configuration is known in which a large number of game balls can be awarded to a winning opening when a big win is won in the lottery.

  In such a conventional gaming machine, in order to improve the interest of the game by the game balls flowing down the game area, various ideas relating to the movement path of the game balls have been made. For example, there is a gaming machine that structurally changes the moving path of the game ball by providing a sorting unit that distributes the game ball to the left and right at the upper part of the central structure disposed in the center of the game board (for example, Open 2004-254955).

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in order to improve the interest of the game. In other words, in the conventional gaming machine, the movement path of the game ball is diversified, but the game ball distributed to the right flows down the right side as it is, and the behavior of the game ball distributed by the distribution unit moves to the downstream side. It also affects the position of the game ball. For this reason, the flow start position of the game ball aimed by the player is uniform, and the player's launch operation is easily limited so that a large number of game balls flow down on one side where privileges related to the game are easily given, It was not surprising.

  On the other hand, with the gaming machine described in the feature 10, the game balls that are structurally distributed by the distribution unit can be moved along a movement route that is suitable for improving the fun of the game. In other words, the game balls distributed to the side farther from the entrance of the game area (second side) by the sorting unit can be moved to the side closer to the game area entrance (first side). The target position is diversified by the launch operation, and it can be surprising. Further, even if a launch operation is performed so that a large number of game balls flow down to the second side, the game balls can be returned to the first side, so that the player can enter the entry section from the first side. In addition to aiming at the game, even if a large number of game balls are caused to flow down from the second side aiming to enter the entry part, a game privilege in a specific game area can be given. Thereby, it becomes possible to improve the entertainment of a game suitably.

  Note that the “first side” and the “second side” in the feature 10 change according to the side where the entrance of the gaming area is provided in the gaming machine. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area (that is, when the entrance of the game area is on the left side), the left side in the game area is the “first side”. Equivalent to. In such a case, the right side in the game area corresponds to the “second side”.

  Similarly, the “specific game area” in the feature 10 also changes depending on the side of the gaming machine on which the entrance of the game area is provided. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area, the “specific game area” is a game area from the left side relative to the central structure 420 (that is, the left game Area).

<Feature 11>
A gaming machine according to feature 10, wherein
A game comprising a second path (a left flow path 652, a flow restriction part 623) for guiding the game balls distributed to the first side by the distribution part to the specific game area. Machine.

  In recent years, the size and arrangement of the area where game balls flow down in the game area tends to be limited due to an increase in the size of the central structure. On the other hand, in the case of the gaming machine described in the feature 11, both the game balls distributed to the first side by the distribution unit and the game balls distributed to the second side have a common game area (distribution). Can be guided to a specific game area formed on the first side with respect to the portion, so that a limited game area can be used effectively.

<Feature 12>
The gaming machine according to feature 10 or 11,
On the downstream side of the specific game area, a first advantageous area (lower middle start prize-winning device 431) that is an area that gives a privilege that is more advantageous when it passes than when it does not pass is provided. A gaming machine characterized by

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 12, even if the game ball is distributed to the second side by the distribution unit, the game ball is separated from the second side with respect to the distribution unit (the first side). In the game area (specific game area) formed on the first side), it is possible to pass through the first advantageous area arranged on the downstream side of the specific game area. Therefore, the player may pass through the first advantageous area with respect to the game balls distributed to the side different from the side where the first advantageous area is provided by the distribution unit. We can have the expectation that there is no. Thereby, the interest of a game can be improved more suitably.

  In addition, in the feature 12, “privilege advantageous when compared with the case where it does not pass” exemplifies various lottery rights given based on the passing, provision of game value such as a prize ball, and the like. . The various lottery rights given on the basis of having passed are, for example, the first special symbol lottery rights given on the basis of having passed (entered) the lower middle start winning device 431.

<Feature 13>
A gaming machine according to feature 12,
The distribution unit is a region through which the game ball that has entered by the entry unit can pass, and a second advantageous region (upper side) that gives a privilege that is more advantageous than the case where the game ball has passed when not passed. Medium start winning device 632),
The first route guides the game ball to the specific game area when the game ball is distributed to the second side by the distribution unit without entering the entry unit. To play.

  In the case of the gaming machine described in the feature 13, when the game ball is launched from the second side so as to aim to enter the entry portion, the game ball does not enter the entry portion and passes to the second advantageous area. Even when the opportunity is lost, the game ball is distributed to the second side by the distribution unit, and thus the possibility of passage to the first advantageous region occurs. Thereby, the disappointment of the player due to the loss of the opportunity to enter the second advantageous area can be reduced, and the interest of the game can be improved in this respect as well.

<Feature 14>
A gaming machine according to feature 13, wherein
A game ball that has passed through the entry portion passes through the second side from the position of the second advantageous region without passing through the second advantageous region, and joins the first path. A gaming machine comprising a path (recess 622D, recess 622F).

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 14, even when the game ball has entered the entry portion, the game ball does not pass through the third route even if it does not pass through the second advantageous area. To join the first path. Thereby, even if the player cannot pass the game ball through the second advantageous area, the player can expect that the game ball may pass through the first advantageous area.

  In particular, since the third path is a path that passes through the second side from the position of the second advantageous region and joins the first path, the player has unexpectedness with respect to the moving path of the game ball. On the other hand, it can be expected that the game ball that moves by the unexpected route may pass through the first advantageous region. Thereby, the interest of a game can be improved more suitably.

  Further, in the conventional typical gaming machine, when the gaming ball that has entered the entry portion does not pass through the advantageous area such as the second advantageous area, the gaming ball is discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 100. . On the other hand, in the gaming machine described in feature 14, even if the gaming ball that has entered the entry portion does not pass through the second advantageous area, the gaming ball is discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 100. Without again, a chance to pass to the first advantageous region is given. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the disappointment of the player due to the game ball that has entered the entry portion not passing through the second advantageous area, and in this respect, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

<Feature 15>
A gaming machine according to any one of features 12 to 14,
The allocating portion is provided at a position where at least a part of the allocating portion overlaps in the vertical direction with respect to the first advantageous region in a front view of the gaming machine
The gaming machine, wherein the first path is provided between the distribution unit and the first advantageous area.

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 15, after the game ball distributed to the second side by the distribution unit moves along the first route and is guided to the specific game area, the game ball enters the first advantageous area. The route to reach can be a route such as a substantially S-shape. Therefore, since the movement path until the game ball distributed to the second side by the distribution unit reaches the first advantageous area is completely different from the path that flows down, Clearly understand the route of travel. As a result, even if a player launches a game ball aiming at a side away from a specific game area, the player launches while clearly grasping that the game ball may pass through the first advantageous area. The operation can be performed.

<Feature 16>
A gaming machine according to any one of features 13 to 15,
Lottery means for lottery whether or not to generate the advantageous gaming state when a game ball passes through at least one of the first advantageous region or the second advantageous region;
A gaming machine comprising a display device that displays identification information corresponding to a result of the lottery by the lottery means between the distribution unit and the first advantageous area in a front view of the gaming machine. .

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 16, since the display device is provided between the sorting unit and the first advantageous area in the front view of the gaming machine, the player can play the second game ball by the sorting unit. When the game ball passes through the first advantageous area while following the movement path of the game ball when being distributed to the side, by raising the line of sight upward from the position of the first advantageous area, The identification information corresponding to the result of the lottery based on the fact that the game ball has passed the first advantageous area can be visually recognized. After confirming the state of the display device, the player can raise the line of sight, so that the player can visually recognize the state in which the game balls are distributed at the distribution unit located above the display device. It is possible to suppress the swaying of the eyes of

<Feature 20>
A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming balls flow through a predetermined entrance,
Receiving a game ball, the game ball is far from the entrance of the game area when viewed from the first side which is close to the entrance of the game area in the front view of the gaming machine or from the position where the game ball is received. A flow restriction part (flow restriction part 623) that moves to the second side that is the side and guides it to a specific game area (the left game area including the general winning device 639),
The specific game area is provided with an advantageous area (general winning device 639) that gives a privilege that is more advantageous when it passes than when it does not pass,
The flow-down regulating unit is configured such that an acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow-down regulating unit to the specific game area is different depending on a position where the game ball is received.
The gaming machine is characterized in that the advantageous area is provided at a position where the possibility of passage differs according to the position of the game ball received by the flow-down restricting portion.

  In a conventional typical gaming machine, a game ball launched in response to a player's operation enters a game area formed on the game board, and flows down the game area. When a game ball flowing down the game area enters the starting port, a lottery is performed according to the ball. A configuration is known in which a large number of game balls can be awarded to a winning opening when a big win is won in the lottery.

  In such a conventional gaming machine, in order to improve the interest of the game by the game balls flowing down the game area, various ideas relating to the movement path of the game balls have been made. For example, there is a gaming machine that structurally changes the moving path of the game ball by providing a sorting unit that distributes the game ball to the left and right at the upper part of the central structure disposed in the center of the game board (for example, Open 2004-254955).

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in order to improve the interest of the game. That is, in the conventional gaming machine, although the moving path of the game ball is diversified, the moving path is merely for changing the moving direction, and the game when discharged from the moving path. The behavior of the sphere was not considered. In addition, the entry of a game ball into the advantageous area is easily determined by the arrangement of a flow changing member such as a nail provided near the advantageous area, and the behavior of the game ball at a position away from the advantageous area affects the entry into the advantageous area. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult for the player to be interested only in the behavior of the game ball in a part of the game area.

  On the other hand, in the case of the gaming machine according to the feature 20, the flow-down restricting unit receives the game ball from the position near the entrance of the game area (first side) or the side far from the entrance of the game area. Move to (second side) to guide to a specific game area. The flow-down restricting unit is configured such that the acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow-down restricting unit to the specific game area is different depending on the position where the game ball is received. Then, in a specific game area, an advantage area that gives a privilege that is more advantageous than a case where it does not pass if it passes is a position where the possibility of passing differs depending on the position of the game ball received by the flow-down regulating unit. Is provided. Thereby, the possibility that the player can receive an advantageous privilege can be changed according to the position of the game ball received by the flow-down regulating unit. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game in which the game ball is moved by the flow-down restricting unit, and thus it is possible to suitably improve the interest of the game.

  Note that the “first side” and the “second side” in the feature 20 change according to the side where the entrance of the gaming area is provided in the gaming machine. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area (that is, when the entrance of the game area is on the left side), the left side in the game area is the “first side”. Equivalent to. In such a case, the right side in the game area corresponds to the “second side”.

<Feature 21>
A gaming machine according to feature 20, wherein
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the flow restriction part is configured as an inclined part that is inclined downward from one of the first side or the second side toward the other.

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 21, the flow restriction part is configured as an inclined part that is inclined from one to the other. Therefore, the potential energy of the game ball that rolls the flow restriction part with its own weight is determined by the exit. The farther away, the higher. Thereby, the acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow restriction part to the specific game area can be varied.

  In addition, the “privilege advantageous when compared with the case where it does not pass” in the feature 21 is exemplified by various lottery rights given based on the passing and the provision of game values such as prize balls. . The awarding of a game value such as a prize ball given based on passing is a prize ball given based on passing (entering) the general winning device 639, for example.

<Feature 22>
The gaming machine according to feature 20 or 21, wherein
An entry part into which a game ball flowing down the game area can enter, and a distribution part that distributes the game ball flowing down the game area to the first side or the second side;
The flow-down restricting portion is provided below the allocating portion in a front view of the gaming machine, receives the gaming balls distributed to the first side or the second side by the allocating portion, and receives the gaming balls Is guided to the specific game area.

  With the gaming machine described in the feature 22, the game balls distributed by the distribution unit can be discharged to a specific game area through the flow-down regulating unit.

<Feature 23>
A gaming machine according to feature 22,
The flow restriction part is configured as an inclined part that is inclined downward from the second side toward the first side,
The specific game area is an area formed on the first side with respect to the allocating portion (a left game area including a lower middle start winning device 431 on the downstream side from the left side with respect to the central structure 420). And
The flow-down restricting unit receives the game balls distributed to the second side by the distributing unit on the second side from the center of the inclined unit, and moves the game balls to the first side by the distributing unit. A gaming machine, wherein the distributed game balls are received on the first side from the center of the inclined portion.

  In the case of the gaming machine described in feature 23, even if the game ball is distributed to the side farther from the entrance of the game area (second side) by the distribution unit, the game ball is distributed by the flow-down regulating unit. The possibility of passing to an advantageous area provided in a game area (specific game area) formed on the side closer to the entrance (first side) with respect to the split portion can be obtained. Therefore, since the position which a player aims by launch operation can be diversified, the interest of the game which distributes a game ball by a distribution part can be improved suitably.

  Further, depending on whether the game ball is distributed to the first side or the second side by the distribution unit, the acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow-down regulating unit to the specific game area may be varied. it can. That is, depending on the position where the advantageous area is provided, there is a possibility that the player can obtain an advantageous privilege when the game ball is distributed to the first side and when the game ball is distributed to the second side. Can be changed. Also in this respect, it is possible to suitably improve the interest of the game in which the game balls are distributed by the distribution unit.

  Note that the “specific game area” in the feature 23 varies depending on the side of the gaming machine where the entrance of the game area is provided. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area, the “specific game area” is a game area from the left side relative to the central structure 420 (that is, the left game Area).

<Feature 24>
The gaming machine according to feature 23,
In the advantageous area, when the flow restriction part receives the game balls distributed to the second side by the distribution part, the flow restriction part is distributed to the second side by the distribution part. A gaming machine characterized in that the gaming machine is provided at a position that is more likely to pass than when a game ball is received.

  With the gaming machine described in the feature 24, the player can increase the possibility of passing to the advantageous area by performing the launch operation aiming at the position so that the player can be distributed to the second side by the distribution unit. Since it can do, the interest with respect to launching a game ball aiming at a predetermined position can be improved.

<Feature 30>
A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming balls flow through a predetermined entrance,
A decorative part (decorative body 612A, 613A) that is configured to be visible by the back side and to be decorated by emitting light,
A game ball passage (left flow passage 652, right flow passage 653) formed on the back side of the decorative portion;
In the game ball passage, at least one passage display portion (projections 612D and 613D) extending along the continuous direction of the game ball passage,
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  In a conventional typical gaming machine, a game ball launched in response to a player's operation enters a game area formed on the game board, and flows down the game area. When a game ball flowing down the game area enters the starting port, a lottery is performed according to the ball. A configuration is known in which a large number of game balls can be awarded to a winning opening when a big win is won in the lottery.

  In such a conventional gaming machine, in order to improve the interest of the game by the game balls flowing down the game area, various ideas relating to the movement path of the game balls have been made. For example, a game in which a warp path for guiding a game ball from the outside to the inside of a central structure disposed in the center of the game board is provided, and the game ball is guided to a stage that can be guided to the starting device using the warp path. Exist (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-254955).

  However, in the conventional gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in order to improve the interest of the game. That is, in the conventional gaming machine, since the warp path is provided inside or on the back side of the central structure, it is difficult to see from the front of the gaming machine. Therefore, when a game ball enters the warp route, the player loses sight of the game ball and cannot confirm its whereabouts. Thus, the player may feel distrust that the game ball may not come out of the warp route, or feel frustrated with being unable to confirm the game ball.

  For such a problem, it is conceivable to make the warp passage visible by making the central structure transparent. However, in recent years, gaming machines that decorate a central structure by causing a light emitter provided therein to emit light have become mainstream. Therefore, even if the central structure is configured to be transparent, the player easily loses the position of the warp path by the light decorating the central structure, and accordingly, the game ball passing through the warp path is also easily lost. This issue remains unresolved.

  On the other hand, in the case of the gaming machine described in the gaming machine 30, a passage display portion extending along the continuous direction of the gaming ball passage is provided in the gaming ball passage formed on the back side of the decoration portion. Even if the decoration is decorated by emitting light, the player can easily grasp the game ball path before the game starts. Accordingly, since it is possible to suppress the player from feeling distrust about the game ball that has entered the game ball passage, the player can enjoy a game started by entering the game ball into the game ball passage. . Thereby, it becomes possible to improve the entertainment of a game suitably.

<Feature 31>
The gaming machine according to feature 30, wherein
A plurality of the passage display units are arranged in a direction intersecting with a continuous direction of the gaming ball passage.

  In the case of the gaming machine according to feature 31, a plurality of passage display units are provided in a direction intersecting the continuous direction of the game ball passage, so that the player can play a game ball with the plurality of passage display units. It is easier to grasp the passage.

<Feature 32>
The gaming machine according to feature 30 or 31, wherein
The decorative portion includes a decorative undulation surface formed on the front side of the decorative portion, and a streak-shaped protruding portion (projecting portion 612D, extending along the continuous direction of the game ball passage formed on the back side of the decorative portion. 613D),
The game machine characterized in that the passage display portion is constituted by the line-like protrusions.

  With the gaming machine described in feature 32, while providing a high level of decorativeness by the decorative undulation surface formed on the front side of the decorative portion, the protrusion of the back side provides good visibility of the game ball passage Can be secured. That is, it is possible to achieve both decorativeness and good visibility of the game ball passage.

<Feature 33>
A gaming machine according to feature 32,
The gaming ball passage is configured to include a back surface of the decoration portion and a passage surface facing the back surface, and is a passage that extends in a vertical direction in a front view of the gaming machine,
A gaming machine, wherein the passage surface has a recess corresponding to the protrusion at a position where the line-like protrusion is formed.

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 33, the passage formed through the game ball passage can be configured as a path meandering along the concave portion instead of being dropped vertically by a route formed between the protrusion and the concave portion. In such a meandering portion, the speed of the game ball passing through the game ball passage can be reduced.

<Feature 34>
The gaming machine according to the feature 33, wherein
The game machine characterized in that the streak-like protrusion is formed such that the height of the decorative part from the installation surface gradually increases from the end of the protrusion toward the inside.

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 34, the meandering portion formed by the protrusion and the recess can be loosened in the game ball passage, so that the game ball is inserted into the passage by meandering the game ball passage. It can suppress clogging.

<Feature 35>
The gaming machine according to feature 33 or 34, wherein
A gaming machine characterized in that a length in a direction intersecting with the continuous direction of each of the sections extending in the continuous direction of the game ball passage defined by the protrusions is narrower than a width of the game ball.

  In the gaming machine according to the feature 35, the length in the direction intersecting the continuous direction of each section extending in the continuous direction of the game ball passage partitioned by the protrusion is narrower than the width of the game ball. The game ball can be passed along each section extending in the continuous direction of the game ball passage. Thereby, since the game ball passing through the game ball passage is rectified, it is possible to suppress clogging of the game ball in the passage.

<Feature 36>
A gaming machine according to any one of features 30 to 35,
The game ball flowing down the game area has an entry part (passage port 621) into which the game ball can enter, and the game ball flowing down the game area is a side closer to the entrance of the game area in a front view of the gaming machine. Or a distribution part (roof 611B) that distributes to the second side that is far from the entrance of the gaming area,
The gaming machine, wherein the game ball path is a path for game balls distributed by the distribution unit.

  With the gaming machine described in the feature 36, it is possible to allow the game balls distributed by the distribution unit to enter the game ball passage. The player can grasp the whereabouts of the game ball after being sorted by the sorting unit using the passage display unit.

  Note that the “first side” and the “second side” in the feature 36 change according to the side where the entrance of the gaming area is provided in the gaming machine. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area (that is, when the entrance of the game area is on the left side), the left side in the game area is the “first side”. Equivalent to. In such a case, the right side in the game area corresponds to the “second side”.

<Feature 37>
A gaming machine according to feature 36,
Provided on the downstream side of the game ball passage through which the game balls distributed to the second side by the distribution unit pass, and the game balls are moved from the second side to the first side in a front view of the gaming machine. Specific game area formed on the first side with respect to the allocating portion (including the lower middle start winning device 431 on the downstream side from the left side with respect to the central structure 420). A gaming machine comprising a flow restricting portion (flow restricting portion 623) for guiding to the left game area.

  In the case of the gaming machine described in the gaming machine 37, the gaming balls distributed to the side farther from the entrance of the gaming area (second side) by the distribution unit pass through the gaming ball passage and the flow-down regulating unit, It is guided to a specific game area formed on the side closer to the entrance (first side). In such a case, after the game balls are distributed by the distribution unit, the game balls pass through a relatively long route before entering the specific game area. As described above, it is easy to grasp the game ball passage before the start of the game (that is, before the game ball enters a specific game area). Thereby, it is possible to suitably suppress the player from feeling distrust of the game ball that has entered a relatively long route up to the specific game area including the game ball passage.

  Note that the “specific game area” in the feature 37 varies depending on the side of the gaming machine on which the entrance of the game area is provided. For example, as in the above-described embodiment, when the exit of the launch passage 401B is located on the left side of the game area, the “specific game area” is a game area from the left side relative to the central structure 420 (that is, the left game Area).

<Feature 38>
A gaming machine according to feature 37,
The flow-down restricting portion is configured as an inclined portion that is inclined downward from the second side toward the first side, receives a game ball that has passed through the game ball passage, and receives the game ball. To move to the first side and guide to the specific game area,
The specific game area is provided with an advantageous area (lower middle start winning device 431) that gives a privilege that is more advantageous when passing the game than when not passing,
The flow restriction part is configured so that the acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow restriction part differs depending on the position where the game ball is received,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the advantageous area is provided at a position where the possibility of passage differs according to the position of the game ball received by the flow-down restricting portion.

  In the case of the gaming machine according to feature 38, the flow-down restricting unit receives the game ball that has passed through the game ball passage, and receives the game ball from the position where the game ball is received from the side close to the entrance of the game area (first side). ) To guide to a specific game area. The flow-down restricting unit is configured such that the acceleration mode of the game ball discharged from the flow-down restricting unit to the specific game area is different depending on the position where the game ball is received. Then, in a specific game area, an advantage area that gives a privilege that is more advantageous than a case where it does not pass if it passes is a position where the possibility of passing differs depending on the position of the game ball received by the flow-down regulating unit. Is provided. In this way, the possibility that the game ball that has passed through the game ball passage can receive an advantageous privilege changes depending on the position of the flow-down regulating unit that has received the game ball. In addition, it is possible to enjoy a game in which the game ball that has passed through the game ball passage is moved by the flow-down restricting unit, thereby making it possible to improve the entertainment of the game suitably.

  In addition, the “privilege advantageous when compared with the case where it does not pass” in the feature 38 is exemplified by various lottery rights given based on the passing and the provision of game values such as prize balls. . The awarding of a game value such as a prize ball given based on passing is a prize ball given based on passing (entering) the general winning device 639, for example.

  Note that at least one feature described in the features 10 to 38 may be applied in combination with any one or more features. The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which the above-described features can be applied is shown below.

  Pachinko machine: launch operation means operated by a player, game ball launch means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the launch operation means, a passage section for guiding the launched game ball to a predetermined game area, A gaming machine that includes each gaming component arranged in a gaming area, and gives a bonus to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion of each gaming component.

  A spinning machine such as a slot machine: the rotation of the circulating body is started based on the operation of the start operation means, the rotation of the circulating body is stopped based on the operation of the stop operation means, and the player is made according to the pattern after the stop. A gaming machine that grants bonuses.

  As described above, the present invention is suitable for a gaming machine such as a ball game machine.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Game machine, 431 ... Lower middle start winning device, 611B: Roof, 612A, 613A ... Decoration part, 612D, 613D ... Projection part, 620 ... Passage port, 622C ... Stage, 623 ... Flow restriction part, 639 ... General Prize-winning device, 652 ... Left downstream passage, 653 ... Right downstream passage, 652A, 653A ... concave

Claims (2)

A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming balls flow through a predetermined entrance,
The back side is constructed so that it can be seen, and the decorative part is decorated by emitting light.
A game ball passage formed on the back side of the decorative portion;
In the game ball passage, comprising at least one passage display portion extending along a continuous direction of the game ball passage ,
The decorative portion includes a decorative undulation surface formed on the front side of the decorative portion, and a line-shaped protrusion formed on the back side of the decorative portion and extending along the continuous direction of the game ball passage,
The game machine characterized in that the passage display portion is constituted by the line-like projections . A gaming machine according to claim 1, a game machine, which is a pachinko machine.