JP6780339B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine.

Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines include a game board in which a game area is formed, and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area based on a launch operation by the player. When the game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

JP-A-2002-78904

In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to raise the player's attention to the movement of the gaming ball.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-exemplified circumstances and the like, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine capable of suitably increasing the degree of attention of a player to the movement of a game ball.

Hereinafter, means for solving the above problems will be described.

This onset Ming,
A game machine having a game board on which a game area is formed, and configured so that a game ball provided in the game area changes the flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area.
A ball entry portion provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided on the upper side of the ball entry portion and to be inclined downward from the side toward the ball entry portion, and the game is played in the same direction as the arrangement direction. A pair of left and right first guide nail rows that guide the ball,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below the ball entry portion and have a downward inclination toward the side from the ball entry portion, and the direction is the same as the arrangement direction. Bei give a pair of left and right second induction nails sequence that induces game balls,
Having a plurality of the first guide nail rows,
The first guide nail rows face each other up and down with a gap through which the game ball can pass.
The second guide nail row faces the end of each first guide nail row located above the second guide nail row with a gap through which the game ball can pass.
The second guide nail row is moved to the downstream side of the uppermost first guide nail row among the plurality of first guide nail rows located on the opposite side of the ball entry portion from the second guide nail row. It is characterized in that it is arranged so as to be offset upward with respect to a position that is an extension of .

It is possible to preferably increase the degree of attention of the player to the movement of the game ball.

It is a perspective view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the main structure of a pachinko machine in development. It is a perspective view which shows the main structure of a pachinko machine in development. It is a front view which shows the structure of the game board unit. It is a front view which shows the game area formation body. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow-down mode of a game ball. It is a front view which shows the back block. It is a partially enlarged view of FIG. (A) is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 8 and (b) is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 9 (a). It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content on the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content on the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the contents of various counters used for a winning or failing lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing executed by MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the normal process which is executed by MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the game state transition process. It is a flowchart which shows the opening and closing process of a big winning opening. It is a flowchart which shows the position control process which is executed by MPU of a notification / effect control device. It is the schematic which shows the relationship between the game state and the position of a symbol display device. (A) A flowchart showing a display mode switching process executed by the MPU of the notification / effect control device, and (b) a schematic diagram showing a relationship between a game state and a display mode. It is a schematic diagram which shows the outline of the display for each display mode. It is a flowchart which shows the winning notification processing corresponding to the upper general winning opening which is executed by the MPU of the notification / effect control device. (A) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of winning notification at the time of a single winning, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of winning notification at the time of continuous winning. It is a timing chart which shows the flow of winning notification. It is a flowchart which shows the winning notification processing corresponding to the lower general winning opening which is executed by the MPU of the notification / effect control device. (A) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of winning notification at the time of a single winning, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of winning notification at the time of continuous winning. It is the schematic of the display screen which shows the outline of the winning notification in the 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow of the winning notification at the time of continuous winning. It is the schematic which shows the game board unit in 4th Embodiment. It is the schematic which shows the modification of the game board unit.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter, referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10 as viewed from the front side, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the main configurations of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 2, for convenience, the configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in the game area PE is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 forming the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10 and a game machine main portion 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

The outer frame 11 is formed by connecting plate members on all four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. By attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island facility, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. The outer frame 11 is not an indispensable configuration for the pachinko machine 10, and the outer frame 11 may be provided on the island equipment of the amusement park.

The game machine main portion 12 is supported by an outer frame 11 in a state where it can be opened and closed. Specifically, the upper support metal fitting 17 is fixed to the connecting portion between the upper frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11, and further below to the connecting portion between the lower frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11. A side support metal fitting 18 is provided. A support mechanism is composed of the upper support metal fittings 17 and the lower support metal fittings 18, and the support mechanism causes the game machine main portion 12 to rotate on the left side of the pachinko machine 10 with respect to the outer frame 11. , The right side is the rotation tip side, and the pachinko machine 10 can be rotated forward (see FIGS. 2 and 3).

As shown in FIG. 2, the game machine main portion 12 includes an inner frame 13 as a base body, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack arranged behind the inner frame 13. It is equipped with a unit 15. The inner frame 13 of the game machine main portion 12 is rotatably supported with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the inner frame 13 can rotate forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side in front view.

The front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and is rotatable forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side in front view. Further, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated rearward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side when viewed from the front. (See FIG. 3).

(Front door frame 14)
Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame 20 having an outer shape substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. There is. A substantially elliptical window portion 21 is formed in the central portion of the frame body 20 so that almost the entire area of the game area PE described later can be visually recognized from the front, and the window portion 21 is the same by the glass unit 22. It is closed from the back side of the front door frame 14.

The glass unit 22 includes a plurality of transparent glass panels 23 and a glass holder for holding the glass panels 23. The glass holder is formed with a partition portion that partitions the holding area of the glass panel 23 back and forth, and both glass panels 23 face each other in the front and rear with the partition portion interposed therebetween. That is, by securing a predetermined gap between the two glass panels 23, the game area PE is doubly covered from the front side of the pachinko machine 10 by the glass panels 23 while avoiding interference between the glass panels 23. It is in a state.

It is not always necessary to unitize both glass panels 23 by using a glass holder, and each glass panel 23 may be individually attached to the frame body 20. Further, the number of glass panels is arbitrary, and may be one or three or more. However, from the viewpoint of improving safety and crime prevention, it is preferable to employ a plurality of glass panels and to face each of these glass panels in the front-rear direction with a predetermined gap in between. Incidentally, it is also possible to use a transparent synthetic resin panel member instead of the glass panel.

As shown in FIG. 1, light emitting means such as various lamps are provided around the glass unit 22 (specifically, the window portion 21). For example, an annular illumination portion 26 having a built-in light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the peripheral edge of the window portion 21. The annular illumination unit 26 is lit or blinked according to a change in the gaming state at the time of a big hit or a predetermined reach. In addition, an error display lamp unit 27 that lights up when a predetermined error occurs is provided at the center of the annular illumination unit 26 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, and a prize that lights up during the payout of the prize ball is provided on the left and right sides thereof. A ball lamp portion 28 is provided. Further, a speaker unit 29 for outputting a sound effect or the like according to the game state is provided at a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp units 28.

Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulging portion 31 bulging toward the front side and a lower bulging portion 32 are vertically arranged side by side. An upper plate 33 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 31, and a lower plate 34 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 32. The upper plate 33 has a function of temporarily storing the game balls paid out from the payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism side described later while arranging them in a row. Further, the lower plate 34 has a function of storing the surplus game balls in the upper plate 33.

An operation button 35 operated by the player is arranged on the upper bulging portion 31 on the front side of the upper plate 33. By operating the operation button 35, an operation-corresponding effect (for example, a special effect linked to an accessory) or the like is performed.

A game ball launch handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to project toward the front side. By operating the game ball launch handle 41, the game ball is launched from the game ball launch mechanism described later.

As shown in FIG. 2, a passage forming unit 45 is attached to the back surface of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 45 is formed of synthetic resin and has a front door side upper plate passage leading to the upper plate 33 and a front door side lower plate passage leading to the lower plate 34. In the passage forming unit 45, a receiving portion that protrudes rearward and is opened upward is formed in the upper corner portion thereof, and the entrance portion of the upper plate passage on the front door side is formed by partitioning the receiving portion to the left and right by a partition wall. A section is formed between the portion and the entrance portion of the lower plate passage on the front door side. The game ball entering the front door side upper plate passage is guided to the upper plate 33, and the game ball entering the front door side lower plate passage is guided to the lower plate 34.

On the rotation base end side on the back surface of the front door frame 14, protrusion shafts are provided at the upper end and the lower end thereof. These protrusion shafts form an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of hook metal fittings 49 extending rearward are arranged side by side in the vertical direction on the rotating tip side on the back surface of the front door frame 14. These hook metal fittings 49 form a locking mechanism for the inner frame 13.

(Inner frame 13)
Next, the inner frame 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 50 having a substantially rectangular outer shape like the outer frame 11. The height dimension of the resin base 50 is set to be slightly smaller than the height dimension of the outer frame 11. Further, the resin base 50 is arranged close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a slight gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the resin base 50. A curtain plate is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to close this gap. The curtain plate is arranged below the resin base 50 (specifically, the lower end thereof), and the resin base 50 is placed on the curtain plate when the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11. ..

Support metal fittings 51 and 52 are attached to the upper end and the lower end of the rotation base end side of the front surface of the resin base 50. Shaft holes are formed in the support metal fittings 51 and 52, and the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported with respect to the inner frame 13 by inserting the protruding shaft of the front door frame 14 into the shaft holes. ing.

Insertion holes for inserting the hook metal fittings 49 provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14 are provided on the rotation tip side of the front surface of the resin base 50. As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko machine 10 has a configuration in which a locking device 55 for locking the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is hidden behind the inner frame 13. Therefore, when the hook metal fitting 49 is locked to the locking device 55 (specifically, the hook receiving member for the front door) through the insertion hole, the front door frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 13 in an unopenable manner. Further, the locking device 55 has an inner frame hook member 57 extending rearward of the inner frame 13. By hooking the inner frame hook member 57 on the hook receiving member 19 of the outer frame 11, the game machine main portion 12 is locked in a closed state with respect to the outer frame 11.

A cylinder lock 58 for unlocking the locking device 55 is installed in the lower right corner of the resin base 50. The cylinder lock 58 is integrated with the locking device 55, and when the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 58 is turned to the right, the front door frame 14 is unlocked from the inner frame 13 and inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 58. The locking device 55 is configured so that the inner frame 13 is unlocked with respect to the outer frame 11 when the key is turned counterclockwise.

A substantially elliptical window hole 54 is formed in the central portion of the resin base 50, and the window hole 54 is closed from the rear by the game board unit 60 mounted on the resin base 50.

(Game board unit 60)
The game board unit 60 is provided on the front side of the game area PE on which the game ball flows down and on the back side of the game area forming body 60a and the game area forming body 60a, and various game parts (variable display unit, control device) described later. , A decorative member capable of emitting light, etc.) is integrated with the back block 60b, which is mounted on the base body 90. The game area forming body 60a is made of a transparent synthetic resin material (specifically, FRP), and the front portion of the back block 60b is visible through the game area forming body 60a.

As described above, the game area PE is covered with the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23). In the glass unit 22, the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front surface of the game area forming body 60a is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game ball flowing down the game area PE is the same game area PE. They are arranged so that they are not lined up in the front and back at the same place. As a result, ball clogging in the game area PE is suppressed. The game region forming body 60a is sufficient as long as it is a transparent synthetic resin material, and can be made of acrylic, for example.

Hereinafter, the game board unit 60 (particularly, various configurations arranged in the game area PE of the game area forming body 60a) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view of the game board unit 60. In FIG. 4, a part of the configuration that can be visually recognized through the game area forming body 60a is also displayed by a broken line, a chain line, or the like, and is in a state close to the appearance when the game board unit 60 is actually viewed.

The game area forming body 60a is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in its own thickness direction (front-back direction). A general winning opening 61, an operating ball entry section (lottery trigger entry section) 62, 63, a variable winning device 64, a through gate 65, and the like are arranged in each of these openings. When a game ball enters the entry section of the general winning opening 61, the operating entry section 62, 63, the variable winning device 64, etc., a detection sensor (not shown) provided corresponding to each entry section. Based on the detection result, a predetermined number of prize balls (payment of game balls) and other benefits are given to the player. In addition, an out port 67 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game area PE, and game balls that have not entered various entry portions or the like are discharged from the game area PE through the out port 67. The game ball discharged from the game area PE passes through a collection passage provided on the back side of the game area forming body 60a and a discharging passage provided in the lower part of the resin base 50 (below the game area forming body 60a). Then, it will be returned to the island equipment of the game hall. In the following description, in order to clearly distinguish from the entry of the game ball into the out opening 67, the entry of the game ball into the general winning opening 61, the operating entry portions 62, 63, and the variable winning device 64 is "winning". It is also expressed as.

A large number of game nails 68 are planted on the front side of the game area forming body 60a in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the flow path of the game ball, and various members (roles) such as a windmill 69 are arranged. It is installed. The flow path of the game ball is differentiated by various configurations of the game nail 68, the windmill 69, and the like, and adjustments are made so that the above-mentioned general winning opening 61 and the like are won with an appropriate probability.

The wind turbine 69 shown in the present embodiment has a built-in light emitting body, and the wind turbine 69 emits light in a predetermined color by the light from the light emitting body. Specifically, the game ball that has reached the windmill 69 is distributed to the left and right with the rotation of the windmill 69. The wind turbine 69 is provided with a converter that converts the rotational energy of the wind turbine 69 into electrical energy and supplies it to the light emitting body, and the wind turbine 69 emits light by utilizing the weight and kinetic energy of the game ball.

The distribution destination of the game ball by the wind turbine 69 differs depending on whether the wind turbine 69 rotates in a predetermined direction or in the opposite direction, and the advantage varies depending on the distribution destination. The emission color of the light emitting body when rotated in a predetermined direction and the emission color of the light emitting body when rotated in the opposite direction are different, and the light emitting mode is differentiated according to the distribution destination of the game balls. In this way, the windmill 69 emits light in conjunction with the movement of the game ball, and further, by changing the light emission mode (emission color) depending on the distribution destination, it is possible to contribute to improving the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball. ..

The variable display unit 91 constituting the back block 60b faces the game area forming body 60a behind the central portion of the game area forming body 60a. One of the actuated ball entry portions 62 and 63 is arranged in the front position of the variable display unit 91, that is, in the center of the game area PE, and the position is lower than the upper actuate ball entry portion 62. Specifically, the other is arranged at a position where the overlap with the variable display unit 91 is avoided in the front-rear direction. In the following description, of these two actuated ball entry portions 62 and 63, the upper actuated ball entry portion 62 is referred to as the “upper actuated ball entry portion 62” and the lower actuated ball entry portion 63 is referred to as the “lower actuated ball entry portion 62”. 63 ".

The lower actuating ball entry unit 63 is provided with an electric accessory 66 as an opening / closing type ball entry assisting device (ball entry assisting means) or an opening / closing member (opening / closing means). The electric accessory 66 has a pair of left and right movable pieces and a solenoid-type drive unit for driving the movable pieces, and the position of the movable pieces is changed by the drive unit, so that the lower actuating ball entry portion It is possible to switch between an open state (auxiliary state) in which the ball can enter the 63 and a closed state (non-auxiliary state) in which the ball cannot enter the 63.

The through gate 65 is arranged at a position upstream of the lower actuating entry portion 63 in the game area PE. If the player wins the lottery triggered by the passage of the through gate 65 of the game ball, the electric accessory 66 is switched from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined time and enters the lower operating ball entry unit 63. The sphere will be allowed.

As the support mode by the electric accessory 66, the low frequency support mode and the lower operating ball entry unit 63 are more likely to enter the ball than the low frequency support mode (the period in which the ball is likely to be in the open state or is in the open state). There is a high frequency support mode (long). When the high-frequency support mode is set, the game can be advanced while suppressing the decrease in the number of balls held as compared with the case where the low-frequency support mode is set, which is advantageous for the player.

In addition, when the ball enters the upper actuated ball entry part 62, three game balls are paid out, and when the ball enters the lower actuated ball entry unit 63, four games are played. Balls are paid out, but the number of game balls paid out is not limited to the above. However, in order to enhance the advantage of the lower actuating ball entry portion 62 over the upper actuating ball entry section 62, the number of payouts related to the lower actuating ball entry section 63 is set to be larger than the number of payouts related to the upper actuating ball entry section 62. It is preferable to do.

The variable winning device (special winning device or special winning means) 64 is formed with a large winning opening leading to the back side of the game area forming body 60a, and an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) for opening / closing the large winning opening. ) Is provided. The opening / closing door can be switched between an open state (auxiliary state) in which the game ball can be entered or easily, and a closed state (non-assisted state) in which the game ball cannot or is difficult to enter. Further, the opening / closing door is connected to a variable winning drive unit (specifically, a solenoid) provided on the back side of the game area forming body 60a, and the opening / closing door is normally kept closed and an internal lottery is performed. In, if you win the transition to the open / close execution mode (open / close execution state) (big hit: if you win the transition to the special gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state), you can switch to the open state. It has become.

Here, the open / close execution mode is a mode that shifts when a big hit is won. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 64 in the opening / closing execution mode, for example, the passage of a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) or the winning of a predetermined number (for example, 10) is set as one round, and a plurality of rounds (for example, 16 rounds) are set as the upper limit. It is set so that the opening and closing doors are repeatedly opened.

Here, the variable display unit 91 will be supplementarily described. The variable display unit 91 has a symbol display device 92 that variably displays (variably displays) the symbols triggered by winning a prize in the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63. The symbol display device 92 is configured as a liquid crystal display device provided with a liquid crystal display, and the display content is controlled by a display control device described later. On the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, for example, the symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are scrolled in the vertical direction to be displayed in a variable manner. Then, when the jackpot is won, each symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (predetermined symbol combination) on the preset effective line, and the opening / closing execution mode (special game state or jackpot) is displayed. ) Will be transferred. The symbol display device 92 does not necessarily have to be a liquid crystal display device, and may be a dot matrix or a 7-segment type display device.

At the right end of the game area forming body 60a, a game area partition member 76 for partitioning the game area PE together with the guide rail 100 described later is arranged. The game area partition member 76 is provided with a stopper member on which the game balls flying along the guide rail 100 collide. The stopper member is a cushioning member arranged near the tip of the guide rail 100, and the game ball that collides with the stopper member flows down the game area PE after its momentum is weakened. That is, the stopper member is provided with a de-energizing function that weakens the momentum of the colliding game ball.

At the left end of the game area forming body 60a, a rail cover that covers the guide rail 100 (outer rail 102) from the side is disposed, and the guide rail 100 is protected by this rail cover. A main display unit 77 is embedded in the rail cover, and a part of the main display unit 77 is arranged so as to face the glass unit 22. A main display unit D for displaying a predetermined pattern or the like is provided on the facing portions. The main display unit 77 is electrically connected to a main control device described later, and the display content of the main display unit D is controlled by the main control device.

The main display unit D has an upper operating port display unit that displays lottery results based on winning a prize in the upper operating ball entry unit 62 (upper operating port), and a lower operating ball entry unit 63 (lower operating port). There is a display unit for the lower operating port that displays the result of the lottery performed based on the winning prize.

In the display unit for the upper operating port, the variation display of the pattern is performed by triggering the winning of the upper operating ball entry unit 62, and as a result of stopping the variation display, it is performed based on the winning of the upper operating ball entry unit 62. The result of the internal lottery will be clearly shown. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the upper operating ball entry unit 62 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the variable display is stopped on the upper operating port display unit, and the stop result is obtained. After the predetermined pattern is displayed as, the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

In the display unit for the lower operating port, the variation display of the pattern is performed by triggering the winning of the lower operating ball entry unit 63, and as a result of stopping the variation display, based on the winning of the lower operating ball entry unit 63. The result of the internal lottery held will be specified. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the lower operating ball entry unit 63 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the variable display is stopped at the lower operating opening display unit and stopped. As a result, after the predetermined pattern is displayed, the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

Here, based on the winning of any of the operating ball entry units 62 and 63, the variation display is started on the corresponding operation port display unit, a predetermined stop result is displayed, and the variation display is stopped (until the variation display is stopped ( For details, (until the final display of the game result is completed) corresponds to one game. However, one game round is not limited to the above contents, and for example, a single display area is provided, and even if any of the actuated ball entry portions 62 and 63 is awarded, the single display area is provided. In a configuration in which variable display is performed in one display area, the variable display is started in the single display area, and the game is played until the variable display is stopped while displaying a predetermined stop result. It is also possible to do it once.

Further, in addition to the operation port display unit, the main display unit D of the main display unit 77 is provided with a through gate display unit that displays the lottery result based on the winning of the through gate 65. In the through gate display unit, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the through gate 65, and the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 65 is clearly shown as the stop result of the variation display. Will be done. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the through gate 65 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric service open state, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the through gate display unit and the variable display is displayed. After being stopped, it shifts to the electric service open state. In the electric service open state, the electric accessory 66 attached to the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 is opened in a predetermined mode.

Further, in the present embodiment, the number of times the game ball has passed through the through gate 65 is held up to 4 times, but the number of times held is displayed on the main display unit D of the main display unit 77. A display unit for the number of pending numbers is provided.

The main display unit D described in detail above can be visually recognized from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 22 of the front door frame 14, and the game ball is prevented from moving in front of these various display units. Therefore, its visibility is guaranteed.

Regarding the game area forming body 60a in the present embodiment, three or more game nails 68 are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction (so that the gap between the game nails 68 is smaller than the diameter (radius) dimension of the game ball). One of the features is that a plurality of game nail rows are formed. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, the arrangement of the game nail rows in the game area forming body 60a and the configuration related thereto will be supplementarily described. FIG. 5 is a front view of the game area forming body 60a.

By partitioning a part of the game area PE into the game area PE by using a plurality of game nail rows, the game ball flows down above the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 toward the upper actuating ball entry section 62. In the region where the upper region UE, which is a possible region, is formed, and the game ball flows down toward the lower actuating ball portion 63 and the variable winning device 64 above the lower actuating ball entering portion 63 and the variable winning device 64. It is formed with a certain lower region LE. That is, a plurality of zones having different game modes are formed in the game area PE so as to be vertically arranged. Hereinafter, the upper region UE and the lower region LE will be described.

The upper region UE is provided with a slope 71 for guiding the game ball to the upper actuating entry portion 62. The slope 71 has a plurality of protrusions protruding from the front surface of the game area forming body 60a, and the game ball reaching the slope 71 can roll on the upper surface of these protrusions in the width direction of the game board unit 60. It has become. The slope 71 has a multi-stage structure in which the protrusions are arranged vertically so as to ensure a space larger than the diameter of the game ball, and the game ball rolling along the protrusion is from the upper protrusion. It is configured to gradually approach the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 by moving to the lower projecting portion.

The amount of protrusion of the protrusion forming the lowermost portion is set so that the gap formed between the protrusion and the glass panel 23 is larger than the diameter of the game ball, and the protrusion is between the protrusion and the glass panel 23. The game ball can pass through. A groove portion having a downward slope is formed on the front side in the portion directly above the upper actuating entry portion 62, and the game ball entering the groove portion is guided to the upper actuating entry portion 62. ..

On the other hand, the amount of protrusion of the other protruding portion is set so that the gap formed between the glass panel 23 and the glass panel 23 is smaller than the diameter dimension (specifically, the radial dimension) of the game ball, and the gap is passed through the gap. The dropout of the game ball is avoided. It should be noted that these other protrusions are formed so that the upper surface is slightly inclined downward to the rear, and the forward movement of the game ball rolling on the protrusions is suppressed.

The probability that the game ball that has reached the slope 71 described in detail above will enter the upper actuating entry section 62 via the slope is such that the game ball that does not pass through the slope 71 enters the lower actuating entry section 63. It is higher than the probability of entering the ball.

At the upper part of the upper region UE (above the slope 71), a gate 70 forming an entrance portion of the upper region UE (specifically, the slope 71) is arranged. The gate 70 includes a pair of left and right movable pieces and a driving unit that moves the movable pieces toward and away from each other, and the movement of the movable pieces allows the passage of a game ball between the two movable pieces. It is configured to switch between a permissible state and a blocking state that blocks the passage of the game ball between both movable pieces. The drive unit is connected to the main control device, and the movable piece operates based on the drive signal from the main control device, and periodically switches between the allowable state and the blocked state.

A game ball that reaches the gate 70 under the condition that the gate 70 is in an allowable state
It is easier to reach the slope 71 than the game ball that has reached the gate 70 under the situation where the gate 70 is blocked. When it is expected that the ball will enter the upper actuating ball entry unit 62, the game can be advantageously advanced by launching the game ball aiming at the gate 70 (specifically, the timing at which the ball is allowed).

Upper game nail rows 81 to 82 are arranged around the upper region UE so as to surround the upper region UE. Specifically, a pair of left and right first-class upper game nail rows 81 composed of a group of game nails arranged so as to be inclined downward from the gate 70, and these first-class upper game nail rows 81. On the other hand, by a pair of left and right second type upper game nail rows 82 composed of a group of game nails arranged so as to face each other across the upper region UE and to be inclined downward from the side toward the upper actuating entry portion 62. The upper region UE is partitioned. Due to the upper game nail rows 81 and 82, the path toward the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 is largely divided into a first path passing through the center of the upper region UE and a second path moving along the outer circumference of the upper region UE. It is separated. In particular, in the second path, by moving the game ball so as to fold back from the side to the center side, the moving speed of the game ball rolling along the inclination of the game nail rows 81 to 82 becomes excessively high. It is suppressing.

The inclination angle of the first type upper game nail row 81 and the inclination angle of the second type upper game nail row 82 are the same, and the total length of the first type upper game nail row 81 and the total length of the second type upper game nail row 82 are equal. The game nail rows are arranged so that they are almost symmetrical in the vertical and horizontal directions. As a result, the outer shape of the upper region UE is configured to be substantially diamond-shaped. In particular, by setting the inclination angles of the upper game nail rows 81 and 82 to be smaller than 45 ° and making the upper region UE horizontally long, it is possible to increase the moving distance of the game ball in the second path. There is.

A plurality of recessed portions 85 through which the game ball can pass are formed in the first-class upper game nail row 81, and these recessed portions 85 function as entrance portions to the upper region UE. Here, the slope 71 is provided with an open portion 72 opened to the side (left and right), and a part of the game ball that has flowed into the upper region UE through the recessed portion 85 is provided with the slope 71 through the open portion 72. It is configured to reach. On the other hand, among the game balls that have flowed into the upper region UE through the recess 85, the game balls that have not reached the slope 71 are allowed to flow down the upper region UE as they are, so that the second type upper game nail row It will reach 82.

A plurality of recessed portions 86 through which the game ball can pass are also formed in the second type upper game nail row 82. With respect to the game balls that have entered the recessed portion 86, the guidance to the upper actuating entry portion 62 is completed, and the game balls head toward the lower region LE.

Here, the first-class upper game nail row 81 and the second-class upper game nail row 82 are vertically arranged so as to form a plurality of rows, respectively, and the game balls can pass between the rows. .. In other words, the game nail rows 81 and 82 surrounding the upper region UE are configured to have a plurality of layers. The game ball flowing down along the second path moves between rows through the notches 85 and 86.

Lower game nail rows 83 to 84 are arranged around the lower region LE so as to surround the lower region LE. Specifically, a pair of left and right type 1 lower game nail rows 83 composed of a group of game nails arranged so as to incline downward from the upper actuating entry portion 62 toward the side, and those first type lower A pair of left and right second pairs of game nails arranged so as to face the side game nail row 83 with the lower region LE in between and to be inclined downward from the side toward the lower actuating ball entry portion 63. The lower region LE is partitioned by the seed lower game nail row 84. By these lower game nail rows 83, 84, the path toward the lower actuating entry portion 63 moves along the third path passing through the center of the lower region LE and the fourth path along the outer circumference of the lower region LE. It is roughly divided into routes. In particular, in the fourth path, by moving the game ball so as to fold back from the side to the center side, the moving speed of the game ball rolling along the inclination of the game nail rows 83 to 84 becomes excessively high. It is suppressing.

The inclination angle of the first-class lower game nail row 83 and the inclination angle of the second-class lower game nail row 84 are the same, and the total length of the first-class lower game nail row 83 and the second-class lower game nail row 84. The total length of the game is the same, and the game nail rows are arranged so that they are almost symmetrical in the vertical and horizontal directions. As a result, the lower region LE is also configured to have a substantially rhombus outer shape as in the upper region UE. In particular, by setting the inclination angle of the lower game nail rows 83 and 84 to be smaller than 45 ° and making the lower region LE horizontally long, it is possible to increase the moving distance of the game ball in the second path. It has become.

The lower region LE is provided with the general winning opening 61U (upper general winning opening 61U). The upper general winning opening 61U is arranged at a position shifted to the left and right from directly below the upper operating entry portion 62, and a part of the game ball passing through the side of the upper operating entry portion 62 is the upper general winning opening. It is configured so that the ball can enter 61. As already explained, the general winning opening 61 is a ball entry section that triggers the payout of the game ball, and the game ball that did not enter the upper actuating entry section 62 unfortunately also wins the general winning opening 61. There is room. In other words, the lower region LE is surrounded by the game nail rows 83, 84, and in order to generate a ball entering the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, the siege net by the game nail rows 83, 84 is breached. There is a need. In this respect, it is possible to prevent the player's attention to the movement of the game ball from being lowered by making it easier for the game ball that has not entered the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 to flow into the lower region LE. ..

Further, a plurality of recessed portions 87 through which the game ball can pass are formed in the first-class lower game nail row 83, and these recessed portions 87 function as entrance portions to the lower region LE. Further, a gap through which the game ball can pass is formed between the first-class lower game nail row 83 and the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, and this gap is also used as an entrance portion to the lower region LE. It is functioning. That is, a plurality of inflow routes are provided in the lower region LE as well as in the upper region UE.

Here, the type 1 lower game nail row 83 is in a single row, while the type 2 lower game nail row 84 is in a plurality of rows. By reducing the number of rows of the first-class lower game nail row, the inflow of game balls into the lower region LE is promoted.

A notch 88 through which a game ball can pass is formed in the second type lower game nail row 84. A general winning opening 61 (lower general winning opening 61L) is provided at a position below the second type lower game nail row 84 and side by side with the lower operating ball entry portion 63. A part of the game balls that have flowed into the recess 88 of the second type lower game nail row 84 enters the lower general winning opening 61L, and a predetermined number (this embodiment) based on the entry. In, "7") game balls are paid out.

Next, a flow mode of the game ball in the game area PE will be described with reference to the schematic view of FIG. The launch destination of the game ball, which is advantageous to the player, changes according to the game state. FIG. 6A exemplifies the flow-down mode of the game ball in the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, and FIG. 6B shows the normal gaming state or the special game corresponding to the high frequency support mode. The flow mode of the game ball in the state is illustrated. In FIG. 6A, dot hatching is added to each area to make it easier to see the division of the game area PE.

(Flowing mode of the game ball)
In the normal gaming state in which the support mode by the electric accessory 66 corresponds to the low frequency support mode, the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 has a higher probability of ball entry than the lower actuating ball entry section 63, so that the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 It is preferable to aim at the part 62. The ball entering the upper actuating ball entry unit 62 is roughly classified into a ball passing through the first path and a ball passing through the second path. As described above, when the first path and the second path are compared, the former is more likely to enter the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 than the latter. By aiming at the top (gate 70) of the upper region UE, the game ball can be easily guided to the first path.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, a part of the game ball launched aiming at the gate 70 passes through the gate 70 and flows into the upper region UE. The game ball that has flowed into the upper region UE is guided to the upper actuating entry portion 62 by moving along the slope 71. On the other hand, the game ball that has not flowed into the upper region UE is guided from the center side to the side of the game region PE along the type 1 upper game nail row 81.

At this time, a part of the game balls will flow into the upper region UE through the recessed portion 85 formed in the first type upper game nail row 81. Game nails 68 are also scattered inside the upper region UE, and the game balls that have flowed in through the recess 85 may be guided to an intermediate position of the slope 71 by these game nails 68.

The game ball guided laterally along the first-class upper game nail row 81 reverses when it reaches the second-class upper game nail row 82, and moves toward the upper actuating entry portion 62. Become. Among the game balls that have flowed into the upper region UE, the game balls that have not reached the slope 71 and the game balls that have separated from the slope 71 also serve as a saucer for the second type upper game nail row 82, so that the upper actuating ball entry portion It will move toward 62.

Of the game balls that have reached the upper actuated ball entry portion 62, the game balls that have not entered the upper actuated ball entry section 62 pass through the side of the upper actuated ball entry section 62 and flow into the lower region LE. It is divided into those leading to the first type lower game nail row 83.

The game ball that has passed through the side of the upper working entry portion 62 is divided into one that flows into the upper general winning opening 61U and one that does not flow into the upper general winning opening 61U and flows down the lower region LE as it is. As described above, in the normal gaming state, the electric accessory 66 is maintained in a substantially closed state, and the variable winning device 64 is maintained in a closed state. Therefore, it is unlikely that the game ball that did not enter the upper general winning opening 61U will enter the electric accessory 66 or the variable winning device 64.

Although details will be described later, a distribution member 73 that distributes the game ball to the left and right is located below the upper actuating entry portion 62 and between the left and right upper general winning openings 61U in the lower region LE. It is arranged. The lower general winning opening 61L is located at the guide destination of the game ball by the distribution member 73, and a part of the game ball guided by the distribution member 73 is located in the lower general winning opening 61L. It is structured so that you can enter the ball.

Although the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 is arranged between the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83, the game ball flowing down the second path is not necessarily the upper actuating ball entry portion. It is not always the case that the ball enters 62. For some game balls, there is a possibility that the ball passes through the upper actuating entry portion 62 and moves to the fourth path (type 1 lower game nail row 83).

If the game ball accelerates excessively when moving on the second path, it is assumed that it will be difficult to visually grasp the movement of the game ball as the game ball moves vigorously to the fourth path. .. In the present embodiment, a device is devised to suppress the occurrence of such inconvenience. Here, the relationship between the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83 will be supplementarily described.

As already explained, the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83 have the same inclination angle, and at first glance, they seem to be located on the same virtual straight line. Although it can be seen, in reality, the first-class lower game nail row 83 is arranged so as to be slightly offset upward from the extension of the second-class upper game nail row 82. The offset amount of the first-class lower game nail row 83 is set to be less than the radial dimension of the game ball.

The game ball that has moved along the type 2 upper game nail row 82 changes its behavior when moving to the type 1 lower game nail row 83, and is slightly decelerated. As a result, even if the inclined surface is formed by the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83, the above-mentioned inconvenience is suppressed from occurring due to the inclined surface.

In addition, in arranging the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 at the connecting portion of the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83, the game ball decelerates around the upper actuating ball entry portion 62. There is a technical significance that it is possible to avoid unnaturalness and suppress the cause of discomfort.

As described above, the game ball that has entered the recessed portion 86 formed in the second type upper game nail row 82 before reaching the upper actuating entry portion 62 is guided to the upper actuating entry portion 62 (the first). After deviating from the 2nd route), it will head to the 1st class lower game nail row 83. At this time, the arrival position of the first-class lower game nail row 83 in the longitudinal direction changes depending on which layer of the second-class upper game nail row 82 has passed. Specifically, the arrival position is shifted to the downstream side as it reaches the first-class lower game nail row 83 through the game nail row forming the lower hierarchy.

As described above, the first type lower game nail row 83 is formed with a recessed portion 87 forming an entrance portion to the lower region LE, and by passing through the recessed portion 87, the upper side is generally generalized. You will have an opportunity to enter the winning slot 61U. When passing through the lower hierarchy, the probability of entering the recessed portion 87 is reduced by being guided to the downstream side of the recessed portion 87. With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the monotony of the game.

The second type lower game nail row 84 is located on the extension of the first type lower game nail row 83, and is between the first type lower game nail row 83 and the second type lower game nail row 84. There is a gap through which the game ball can pass. Of the game balls that move along the first-class lower game nail row 83, those that are avoided from entering the recess 87 are moved to the second-class lower game nail row 84. As a result, the moving direction of the game ball is changed so as to be toward the center, and the ball moves toward the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 along the second type lower game nail row 84.

A part of the game ball heading to the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 enters the recessed portion 88 formed in the second type lower game nail row 84, passes through the recessed portion 88, and passes through the recessed portion 88 to enter the lower general winning opening. Head to 61L. When a ball enters the lower general winning opening 61L, a predetermined number (“7” in the present embodiment) of game balls will be paid out.

Of the game balls flowing down the fourth path, the game ball that has passed through the recessed portion 88 goes to the lower actuating entry portion 63. The game ball that has not entered the lower actuating ball entry unit 63 heads for the variable winning device 64 arranged directly below the lower actuating ball entry unit 63. The game ball that has not entered either the lower actuating ball entry unit 63 or the variable winning device 64 is discharged from the game area PE through the out port 67.

The game ball that moves in the order of the upper region UE → the lower region LE traverses the game region PE when passing through the first path → the third path, and the second path when passing through the second path → the fourth path. It can move so as to cross the 1st route → the 3rd route (game area PE) to the left and right. In this way, it is possible to prevent the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous by greatly changing the flow mode of the game ball.

In particular, when passing through the second path → the fourth path, it is possible to prolong the period until the game ball is discharged from the game area PE while suppressing the movement speed of the game ball from becoming excessively slow. .. This is a preferable configuration for improving the attention of the player to the movement of the game ball.

In the normal game state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, the period required for the launched game ball to be discharged from the game area PE, more specifically, until the lower actuating ball entry unit 63 or the variable winning device 64 is reached. Even if the period required for the game is extended to some extent, the player will not suffer any disadvantage. On the other hand, in the normal game state and the special game state corresponding to the high frequency support mode, it is preferable to shorten the required period in consideration of smoothing the progress of the game.

Under such a situation, as shown in FIG. 6B, by launching the game ball so as to bypass the upper region UE from the right side, most of the game balls do not pass through the upper region UE. , The lower actuating ball entry unit 63 and the variable winning device 64 will be guided.

Specifically, when the game ball is launched toward the return member described above (so-called right-handed hit), the game ball jumps over the upper region UE and collides with the return member. The game ball whose momentum is weakened by colliding with the return member flows down to the right side of the upper region UE. Since the through gate 65 is arranged on this route (right route), a part of the game balls flowing down the route will enter the through gate 65. The game ball bypassing the upper region UE is guided to the second type lower game nail row 84, and is directed to the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 and the variable winning device 64 along the second type lower game nail row 84. And move. As a result, the required period will be significantly shortened. As a result, the game can proceed smoothly even in a special game situation.

A part of the game ball moving along the second-class lower game nail row 84 enters the lower general winning opening 61L through the notch 88 of the second-class lower game nail row 84. That is, when the game ball is launched toward the right route, the ball is substantially avoided from entering the upper operating ball entry portion 62 and the upper general winning opening 61U, but entering the lower general winning opening 61L. There is still room for the ball, and benefits based on entering the lower general winning opening 61L may be granted. Rather, as the number of game balls reaching the recess 88 increases, the number of balls entering the lower general winning opening 61L will increase.

As described above, as the area mainly used in the game area PE changes according to the game situation, the display effect in the variable display unit 91 also changes. Hereinafter, the configuration of the rear block 60b to which the variable display unit 91 belongs will be supplementarily described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a front view of the back block 60b provided behind the game area forming body 60a.

(Back block 60b)
The back block 60b has a substantially box-shaped base body 90 open to the game area forming body 60a side, and the game area forming body 60a has a variable display unit 91 mounted on the base body 90. The game board unit 60 is constructed by being fixed. A second background sheet 99 is disposed on the bottom of the base body 90, and the appearance is improved within a range that can be visually recognized through the game area forming body 60a. In the present embodiment, the depth of the background is emphasized by disposing the first background sheet 79 on the back surface of the game area forming body 60a and disposing the second background sheet 99 on the bottom of the base body 90.

The variable display unit 91 integrates a symbol display device 92, which is a liquid crystal display device, a display control device that controls the display of the symbol display device 92, and a holder 93 that holds the symbol display device 92 and the display control device. It is housed in the base body 90.

Incidentally, a first holding lamp portion 94 and a second holding lamp portion 95 are provided on the front surface of the holder 93. The first hold lamp section 94 on the left side corresponds to the upper actuating entry section 62, and the number of times the game ball has entered the upper actuating entry section 62 is held up to four times, and the first hold lamp section 94 is lit. The number of holds is displayed by. The second holding lamp section 95 on the right side corresponds to the lower actuating entry section 63, and the number of times the game ball has entered the lower actuating entry section 63 is held up to four times, and the second hold lamp section is held. The number of holdings is displayed by lighting 95.

The base body 90 is provided with an elevating device 96 for elevating and lowering the variable display unit 91. The elevating device 96 includes a rail 97 that defines the moving direction of the variable display unit 91 to be parallel to the back surface of the game area forming body 60a (specifically, the vertical direction), and a motor as a drive source for raising and lowering the variable display unit 91. It includes 98 and a lock device that regulates the movement of the variable display unit 91. The motor 98 is connected to a notification / effect control device fixed to the back side of the base body 90, and the variable display unit 91 moves up and down by a drive signal from the notification / effect control device. Details will be described later, but by changing the height position of the variable display unit 91 according to the game situation, the position of the variable display unit 91 (upper display position / lower side) according to the main entry destination of the game ball. Display position) is switched.

As shown in FIG. 8 (partially enlarged view of FIG. 4), with respect to the variable display unit 91 shown in the present embodiment, a part of the ball entry portion (upper general winning opening) whose operation area is provided in the game area PE. It overlaps the 61U and the upper working ball entry portion 62) in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the configuration (recovery passage) related to the collection of the game ball can be a factor that strengthens the restriction on the positional relationship between the game area forming body 60a and the variable display unit 91. When the variable display unit 91 is arranged behind the game area forming body 60a, the variable display unit 91 is used as much as possible in order to improve the impact of the display effect and the visibility of the symbol display device 92. It is preferable to arrange it close to 60a.

One of the features of the present embodiment is that the configuration related to the collection of the game ball from the game area PE is devised in consideration of such circumstances. Hereinafter, the device will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. 9 (a) is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 (b) is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 9 (a). Note that FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the configuration of the upper general winning opening 61U.

(Recovery structure)
In a state where the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the upper display position as shown in FIG. 8, the variable display unit 91 is located behind the upper general winning opening 61U. As shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 8, even when the variable display unit 91 is moved to the lower display position, the overlap between the two is maintained. Although the details will be described later, in the variable display unit 91, when a prize is generated in the upper general prize opening 61U under the condition that the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the upper display position, a prize corresponding display indicating that the prize has occurred is displayed. It is configured to be done. Overlapping the variable display unit 91 and the upper general winning opening 61U in the front-rear direction has the technical significance of clearly communicating to the player the relationship between the winning-corresponding display and the winning location.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the upper general winning opening 61U is formed with a guide passage 251 that guides the game ball that has won the upper general winning opening 61U to the back side of the game area forming body 60a. The guide passage 251 extends in the thickness direction of the game area forming body 60a, and a groove portion 261 is formed on the back surface portion of the game area forming body 60a so as to be connected to the exit portion of the guide passage 251. The groove portion 261 is formed by denting the back surface of the game area forming body 60a in front of the game machine. That is, the groove portion 261 is formed by partially reducing the wall thickness of the game region forming body 60a. The groove portion 261 extends downward and connects the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 located below the upper general winning opening 61U and the upper general winning opening 61U.

A cover member 305 that covers the open portion of the groove portion 261 is attached to the back surface of the game area forming body 60a. The cover member 305 has a groove-shaped main body portion 306 and a flange portion 307 extending from the main body portion 306, and the flange portion 307 is fixed to the game area forming body 60a to form the game area forming body 60a. It is integrated.

The groove portion 261 and the cover member 305 form a recovery passage 301 through which the game ball passes. By forming a groove in the game area forming body 60a and constructing the recovery passage 301 by utilizing the wall thickness of the game area forming body 60a, it is possible to suppress the overhang of the recovery passage 301 toward the variable display unit 91 side. It has become. As a result, restrictions on the front-rear positions of the game area forming body 60a and the variable display unit 91 are relaxed.

The depth dimension of the groove portion 261 is larger than the depth dimension of the groove-shaped portion in the main body portion 306. As described above, if the main body constituting the passage region in the recovery passage 301 is the game region forming body 60a and the cover member 305 is used as a means for preventing the game ball from falling out from the groove portion 261, the variable display unit 91 side can be obtained. The overhang of the recovery passage 301 can be suitably suppressed.

Here, in the first place, the meat portion (plate-shaped portion) of the game region forming body 60a is a target for attaching various game parts such as a game nail 68. It is feared that the extremely thin meat portion may cause a decrease in the mounting strength of the game component in the game area forming body 60a. In this regard, if a part of the recovery passage 301 (passing region of the game ball) is formed by the main body 306 of the cover member 305, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the game region forming body 60a from becoming extremely thin.

Further, a plurality of fixing points of the cover member 305 are provided so as to surround the groove portion 261. With such a fixing mode, the game area forming body 60a can be reinforced by the cover member. This is a preferable configuration for suppressing a decrease in strength due to the formation of the groove portion 261 and suppressing distortion or the like of the game region forming body 60a.

In particular, in order to make the cover member 305 into a gutter shape instead of a simple plate shape, the strength of the cover member 305 itself can be ensured, and the reinforcing function of the cover member 305 can be suitably exerted. There is a technical significance.

The lower actuating ball entry portion 63 arranged below the upper general winning opening 61U is prevented from overlapping with the operating area of the variable display unit 91. As shown in FIG. 9A, the guide passage 252 that guides the game ball that has entered the lower actuating entry unit 63 to the rear passes below the variable display unit 91, and the guide passage 252 passes through the guide passage 252. The collection passage 301 is connected. That is, the game ball that has entered the upper general winning opening 61U flows into the guide passage 252 via the guide passage 251 → the collection passage 301, and is returned to the island equipment of the game hall via the guide passage 252. ..

Here, when the game ball moving away from the game area PE and moving on the back side of the game area forming body 60a is visible through the game area forming body 60a, the front side of the game area forming body 60a (game area PE). It is assumed that it will be difficult to distinguish between the game ball that is flowing down and the game ball that is being discharged. This is not preferable because it causes confusion for the player. In the present embodiment, the occurrence of such inconvenience is suppressed by devising the arrangement of the collection passage 301. Hereinafter, the device will be described with reference to FIG. 8 again.

(Handling of collection passage 301)
A colored opaque sticker 78 is provided as a decorative member for decorating the upper general winning opening 61U at a position directly below the upper general winning opening 61U. The seal 78 is attached to the front surface of the game area forming body 60a, and the recovery passage 301 is provided so as to pass behind the seal 78.

In forming the recovery passage 301 by the groove 261 of the game area forming body 60a, it becomes difficult to attach the seal 78. Therefore, the first background sheet 79 constituting the main background is attached to the back surface of the game area forming body 60a, while the sticker 78 as a partial decoration is attached to the front surface of the game area forming body 60a. This prevents the pasting work from becoming difficult.

Compared with the first background sheet 79 arranged on the back surface of the game area forming body 60a, the seal 78 arranged on the game area PE is more likely to come into contact with the game ball. As described above, increasing the chances of contact with the game ball may cause the seal 78 to wear, making it difficult to secure the function as a decorative member. Therefore, by limiting the location of the seal 78 to a position directly below the upper general winning opening 61U, that is, a position where the game ball is relatively difficult to pass, the chance of contact with the game ball is reduced, and the above-mentioned problem related to durability is achieved. Is overcoming.

The portion of the recovery passage 301 between the seal 78 and the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 passes behind the distribution member 73. The distribution member 73 has a flat plate-shaped mounting base 74 facing the front surface of the game area forming body 60a, and an upright portion 75 formed along the upper end edge of the mounting base 74 and standing up from the mounting base 74. The mounting base 74 is fixed to the game area forming body 60a by a fixing tool such as a screw, and is integrated with the game area forming body 60a.

The standing portion 75 has a left inclined portion that descends to the left and a right inclined portion that descends to the right, and the game ball that has reached the standing portion 75 is distributed to the left and right along the inclined portion. As a result, the area in front of the mounting base 74 is a non-passing area in which the game ball does not substantially pass.

The distribution member 73 is made of a transparent synthetic resin material, and its rear portion can be visually recognized through the distribution member 73. Under these circumstances, the game ball passing through the collection passage 301 becomes visible when passing behind the mounting base 74. However, the area in front of the mounting base 74 is a non-passing area of the game ball as described above. Since the passage of the game ball flowing down the game area PE is restricted in front of the mounting base 74, it is possible to prevent the game ball passing through the collection passage 301 from being mistakenly recognized as passing through the game area PE.

When the variable display unit 91 (design display device 92) is arranged at the lower display position, the display corresponding to the lower display position is displayed on the display screen 92a. At this time, since the display screen 92a is located behind the center of the distribution member 73, it is possible to prevent the game ball from passing in front of the center of the display screen 92a. When trying to enhance the impact of the display effect by increasing the size of the symbol display device 92, if the central part of the display screen becomes difficult to see for some reason and the display seems to be divided, the above-mentioned enhancement of the impact is performed. There is concern that the effect of trying will diminish. In this regard, as shown in this feature, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suppressed by devising so that the game ball does not pass in front of the central portion at least in the central portion of the display screen 92a.

By arranging the distribution member 73 at the moving destination of the variable display unit 91 and superimposing the area where the flow of the game ball is avoided in front of the display screen 92a, the visibility of the display effect and the like is improved. There is a technical significance that it can be done. According to the configuration for improving the visibility of the display screen 92a by using the game component (distribution member 73) used for other purposes, the occupied area is occupied as compared with the case where the dedicated ball avoidance is used. It is preferable for suppressing the spread and coexisting with other game parts.

(Inner frame 13)
The configuration of the inner frame 13 will be described again with reference to FIG. Below the mounting area of the game board unit 60 in the resin base 50, a game ball launch mechanism 110 that launches a game ball toward the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball launch handle 41 is provided. The game ball launch mechanism 110 includes a solenoid 111 that launches a game ball arranged at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines a launch direction of the game ball launched by the solenoid 111, and a game at the launch standby position. A ball feeding device 113 for supplying balls and a base plate 114 on which these various configurations 111 to 113 are mounted are provided as a main configuration, and the base plate 114 is fixed to the resin base 50 to be attached to the resin base 50. On the other hand, it is integrated.

The launch rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in a state of being inclined obliquely so as to be inclined upward toward the game board unit 60 side. At a position closer to the downstream end (that is, the lower end) of the launch rail 112, a ball stopper that holds the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 to the launch standby position described above is arranged. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream from the ball stopper.

The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power supply / emission control device described later. The output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion and contraction direction based on the output of the electrical signal from the power supply / launch control device, so that the game ball placed in the launch standby position is on the game board unit 60 side, in detail, the game. It is launched toward the guide rail 100 mounted on the board unit 60.

In the guide rail 100, the game area PE is divided into sections so that the outer shape of the game area PE is substantially circular. Further, the guide rail 100 is composed of an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 arranged so as to face each other with a gap slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, and the guide passage 103 is divided by both rails 101 and 102. It is formed. The guidance passage 103 has an entrance portion opened to the tip end side (obliquely downward) of the launch rail 112 and an exit portion located above the game area PE. The game ball launched based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the launch rail 112 → the guidance rail 100 (entrance portion → exit portion). By adjusting the operation amount of the game ball launch handle 41, the game ball can be divided into an area on the left side of the variable display unit 91 in the game area PE and an area on the right side of the variable display unit 91 in the game area PE. It is possible.

In the game board unit 60, a reverse return prevention member 106 for preventing the game ball that has reached the game area PE from returning to the same guidance passage 103 is attached to the front side of the exit portion, specifically, near the tip of the inner rail 101. It is suppressed that the launch of the subsequent game ball is hindered by the game ball that has reached the game area PE first.

The guide rail 100 (see FIG. 4) and the launch rail 112 are arranged so that the entrance portion of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 diagonally face each other with the lower end edge of the game board unit 60 in between. .. That is, both of the rails 100 and 112 are arranged so that the inlet portion of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 are displaced to the left and right near the lower end edge of the game board unit 60. As a result, both rails 100 and 112 are brought closer to the lower end edge of the game board unit 60, and a gap at a predetermined interval is formed between the inlet portion of the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112.

A foul ball passage 46 is arranged below the gap formed in this way. The foul ball passage 46 is integrally molded with the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. If the game ball launched from the game ball launch mechanism 110 does not reach the game area PE and returns in the guidance passage 103 as a foul ball, the foul ball enters the foul ball passage 46 through the gap. It becomes. The foul ball passage 46 leads to the lower plate passage on the front door side, and the game ball that has entered the foul ball passage 46 is discharged to the lower plate 34 shown in FIG. As a result, the interference between the foul ball and the game ball to be launched next is suppressed.

In the resin base 50, a through hole is formed on the left side of the launch rail 112 (specifically, the side supporting the front door frame 14) through the resin base 50 in the front-rear direction, and a passage forming member is formed in this through hole. 121 is arranged. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the resin base 50 and has an upper plate passage on the main body side and a lower plate passage on the main body side. The upstream side of the main body side upper plate passage and the main body side lower plate passage leads to a game ball distribution section described later. Further, the receiving portion of the passage forming unit 45 attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the passage forming member 121, and the front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side upper plate passage. The front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side lower plate passage.

In the resin base 50, below the passage forming member 121, an opening / closing member 124 for opening and closing the main body side upper plate passage and the main body side lower plate passage is attached. The opening / closing member 124 is rotatably supported in the front-rear direction by a support shaft provided at the lower end thereof, and an urging member that urges the front position to close the upper plate passage on the main body side and the lower plate passage on the main body side. It is provided. Therefore, when the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the inner frame 13, the opening / closing member 124 rises as shown in the drawing and closes the main body side upper plate passage and the main body side lower plate passage. As a result, when the front door frame 14 is opened while the game balls are stored in the upper plate passage on the main body side or the lower plate passage on the main body side, the inconvenience that the stored balls are spilled can be prevented. On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the urging force by the receiving portion provided in the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper plate passage and the front door side upper plate passage communicate with each other, and the main body side lower plate passage and the front door side lower plate passage communicate with each other.

Next, the back configuration of the inner frame 13 (resin base 50 and game board unit 60) will be described with reference to FIG.
Bearing metal fittings 132 are arranged vertically on the rotation base end side on the back surface of the resin base 50. Bearing portions are formed on the bearing fitting 132 so as to be separated from each other in the vertical direction, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing portions.

A plurality of locking metal fittings 135 are provided on the back surface of the resin base 50, and the game board unit 60 is attached to the resin base 50 by these locking metal fittings 135 as described above. Here, the configuration of the back surface of the game board unit 60 will be described.

A display control device is attached to the variable display unit 91 arranged at the center of the game board unit 60 so as to cover the variable display unit 91 from behind (not shown). The effect control device unit 142 is mounted behind the display control device so as to overlap the display control device. The effect control device unit 142 is configured to include a notification / effect control device 610 and a mounting base 144, and the notification / effect control device 610 is mounted on the mounting base 144.

The notification / effect control device 610 includes an effect control board that controls voice and lamp display and control of the display control device according to instructions from the main control device described later, and the effect control board is a substrate made of a transparent resin material or the like. It is housed in a box 145 and configured.

On the back surface of the game board unit 60, as shown in FIG. 3, a collecting plate 150 is provided below the variable display unit 91. The collecting plate 150 is provided with a game ball collection mechanism for collecting the game balls that have won in various winning openings, a detection mechanism for detecting the entry of the game balls into various winning openings, and the like.

Explaining the game ball collection mechanism, the collecting plate 150 is provided with collection passages individually corresponding to various entry portions such as the general winning opening 61. These collection passages descend from the ball entry portion along the back surface of the game board unit 60, and define a fall path for the game ball. The collection passages meet near the lower end of the game board unit 60, and all the game balls that have passed through the entry part such as the general winning opening 61 gather at the lower part of the game board unit 60 via the collection passage. Will be done. The outlet portion of each collection passage is opened downward, and a discharge passage described later is provided on the front side thereof (specifically, below the game board unit 60). The game balls gathered below the game board unit 60 by the collection passage are led out to the discharge passage. The out port 67 is also connected to the discharge passage, and the game ball that has not won any prize is also led out to the discharge passage through the out port 67.

Explaining the detection mechanism, the collecting plate 150 is provided with detection sensors individually corresponding to various entry portions such as the general winning opening 61. These various detection sensors are arranged in the middle of each collection passage connected to the ball entry portion such as the general winning opening 61, and the game ball is in a state where the drop path of the game ball is defined in the collection passage. Detect passage. More specifically, each detection sensor detects the entry of the ball into the entry opening such as the general winning opening 61 by passing the game ball through the detection area provided in the middle of each collection passage. Specifically, a magnetic sensor that grasps a change in the magnetic field that occurs when the game ball passes through the detection region is adopted.

These various detection sensors are electrically connected to the main control unit 160 (specifically, the main control device) provided on the back side of the game board unit 60, and the detection signals in these detection sensors are transmitted to the main control device. On the other hand, it is configured to be output. Hereinafter, the main controller unit 160 and its associated configuration will be described.

The main control device unit 160 is mounted on the game board unit 60 so as to cover the collecting plate 150 from the rear side, and has a mounting base 161 made of synthetic resin and a main control device 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. It is composed of. The main control device 162 includes a main control board having a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power failure monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a substrate box 163 made of the above.

The substrate box 163 includes a box base (front case body) having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are unopenably connected by a sealing portion as a sealing means, whereby the substrate box 163 is sealed. A plurality of sealing portions are provided on the long side portion of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

Any configuration can be applied to the sealing part as long as the box base and the box cover cannot be opened, but the box base and the box cover can be separated by inserting a locking claw into the elongated hole constituting the sealing part. It is designed to be combined so that it cannot be opened. The sealing process by the sealing part prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the unauthorized opening is performed, and once opened. It is possible to perform the sealing process again later. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting the locking claw into at least one elongated hole among the plurality of sealing portions. When the board box 163 is opened, such as when a defect occurs in the housed main control board or when the main control board is inspected, the connecting portion between the sealing portion into which the locking claw is inserted and another sealing portion is connected. Disconnect. As a result, the box base of the board box 163 and the box cover are separated, and the main control board inside can be taken out. After that, when the sealing process is performed again, the locking claw is inserted into the elongated hole of the other sealing portion. If the history of opening the substrate box 163 is left in the substrate box 163, it can be easily found that the unauthorized opening has been performed by looking at the substrate box 163.

A plurality of bonding pieces are provided on one short side portion of the substrate box 163 so as to project laterally. These bonding pieces have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of bonded pieces formed on the mounting base 161, and the bonding pieces and the bonded pieces perform a sealing process between the substrate box 163 and the mounting base 161. Will be.

(Back pack unit 15)
Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inner frame 13 is covered from the rear by the back pack unit 15. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201, and a payout mechanism unit 202, a discharge passage board, and a control device collecting unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201.

The back pack 201 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and as shown in FIG. 3, a base portion 211 to which the payout mechanism portion 202 and the like are attached, and a protective cover portion 212 protruding rearward of the pachinko machine 10 to form a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. And have. The protective cover portion 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is open, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display unit 91.

The base portion 211 is provided with an external terminal plate 213 on the upper right portion thereof. Various output terminals are provided on the external terminal plate 213, and various signals are output to the management control device on the game hall side through these output terminals. Further, the base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower hooking pins at the right end when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the hooking pins are inserted into a bearing metal fitting 132 (specifically, a bearing portion) provided on the inner frame 13. By allowing the back pack unit 15, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported with respect to the inner frame 13. Further, the rotating tip portion of the base portion 211 is provided with a fastener for fastening to the hole to be fastened provided in the inner frame 13, and by fitting the fastener into the hole to be fastened. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13.

The payout mechanism portion 202 is arranged on the base portion 211 so as to bypass the protective cover portion 212. The payout mechanism unit 202 is provided with a tank 221 arranged at the top of the back pack 201 and opened upward, and game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall are sequentially replenished to the tank 221. To. A tank rail that gently inclines toward the downstream side is connected below the tank 221 and a case rail that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail. A payout device 222 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail. The game balls paid out from the payout device 222 are supplied to the game ball distribution unit provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through the payout passage provided on the downstream side of the payout device 222.

The game ball distribution unit has a function of distributing the game balls paid out from the payout device 222 to any of the upper plate 33, the lower plate 34, or the discharge passage described later, and the inner opening is on the main body side described above. It is formed so as to lead to the upper plate 33 via the upper plate passage and the upper plate passage on the front door side, and to lead to the lower plate 34 via the lower plate passage on the main body side and the lower plate passage on the front door side. ..

As shown in FIG. 3, a discharge passage board and a control device collective unit 204 are attached to the lower end portion of the base portion 211 so as to sandwich the lower end portion back and forth. The discharge passage board 203 is formed with a discharge passage that is open to the rear on a surface facing the control device assembly unit 204, and the open portion of the discharge passage is closed by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed so as to discharge the game ball to the island equipment of the game hall, etc., and the game ball led out from the above-mentioned collection passage or the like to the discharge passage passes through the discharge passage to the outside of the pachinko machine 10. It is discharged.

The control device collective unit 204 has a horizontally long mounting base, and the payout control device 181 and the power supply / firing control device 191 are mounted on the mounting base. The payout control device 181 and the power supply / launch control device 191 are arranged so as to be stacked in the front-rear direction so that the payout control device 181 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

In the payout control device 181, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 222 is housed in the board box, and a state return switch provided on the payout control board projects out of the board box. For example, when the state return switch is pressed when a payout error such as ball clogging in the payout device 222 occurs, the ball clogging can be cleared.

In the power supply / launch control device 191, a power supply / launch control board is housed in a board box, and a predetermined power source required by various control devices and the like is generated and output by the board, and a game ball is launched by a player. The launch of the game ball is controlled according to the operation of the handle 41. Further, the power supply / emission control device 191 is provided with a RAM erase switch. This pachinko machine 10 has a storage and retention function for various data so that it can retain the state at the time of a power failure even in the unlikely event of a power failure and can return to the state at the time of a power failure when recovering from the power failure. It has become. Therefore, if the power is shut off in the normal procedure, for example, when the game hall is closed, the state before the shutoff is stored in memory, but if the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch, the RAM data is initialized. It has become.

(Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

The MPU 602 is mounted on the main control board 601 provided in the main control device 162. The MPU 602 is a ROM 603 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 602, and a memory for temporarily storing various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 603 is executed. It is an element having a built-in RAM 604, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like.

The MPU 602 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A power failure monitoring board 605, a payout control device 181 and various detection sensors 151-156 provided in the main control device 162 are connected to the input side of the MPU 602. A power supply / emission control device 191 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 605, and power is supplied to the MPU 602 via the power failure monitoring board 605. In addition, as a part of various detection sensors 151 to 156, prize-winning ball-entry units (payout-compatible ball-entry units) such as general winning openings 61U and 61L, operating ball-entry units 62 and 63, variable winning device 64 and through gate 65, etc. A plurality of detection sensors provided in the above are connected to each other, and the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 makes a winning determination (ball entry determination) for each ball entry portion. Further, in the MPU 602, the jackpot generation lottery is executed based on the winning of the actuated ball entry portions 62 and 63, and the support generation lottery is executed based on the winning of the through gate 65.

A power failure monitoring board 605, a payout control device 181 and a notification / effect control device 610 are connected to the output side of the MPU 602. A prize ball command is output to the payout control device 181 based on, for example, a winning determination result for the winning ball unit corresponding to the winning. In this case, the command information storage area of the ROM 603 is referred to when the prize ball command is output. Then, when the winning of the upper general winning opening 61U is specified, the winning ball command corresponding to the payout of the three game balls (the winning ball command for the upper general winning opening) is output to the lower general winning opening 61L. When the prize is specified, the prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 7 game balls (the prize ball command for the lower general winning opening) is output, and when the prize to the variable winning device 64 is specified, 15 When a prize ball command (a prize ball command for a variable winning device) corresponding to the payout of one game ball is output and a prize is specified for the upper actuating ball entry unit 62, three game balls are paid out. When the winning ball command (prize ball command for the upper actuating entry section) is output and a prize is specified for the lower actuating entry section 63, the prize ball command corresponding to the payout of four game balls ( The prize ball command for the operation entry part) is output.

Various commands such as a fluctuation start command (variation command), a type command, a fluctuation end command, an opening command, and an ending command are output to the notification / effect control device 610. In this case, the command information storage area of ROM 603 is referred to when outputting these various commands. Details of these various commands will be described later. It should be noted that each of the above commands is configured as information on a predetermined number of bytes, and includes various information as information on the predetermined number of bytes.

Further, on the output side of the MPU 602, a variable ball entry drive unit that opens and closes the opening / closing door of the variable winning device 64, an electric accessory drive unit that opens and closes the electric accessory 66 of the operation entry unit 63, and a main display unit 77. Is connected. Various driver circuits are provided on the main control board 601, and the MPU 602 controls these various configurations through the driver circuits.

Specifically, in the open / close execution mode, the drive control of the variable entry drive unit is executed in the MPU 602 so that the variable winning device 64 is opened / closed. Further, when the electric accessory 66 of the operating ball entry unit 63 is won in the open state, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit is executed in the MPU 602 so that the electric accessory 66 is opened and closed. Further, the MPU 602 executes display control of the ball entry unit display unit and the hold number display unit of the main display unit 77.

The power failure monitoring board 605 relays between the main control board 601 and the power supply / emission control device 191 and monitors the DC stable 24 volt voltage, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply / emission control device 191. The payout control device 181 controls the payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 222 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 162.

The power supply / launch control device 191 is connected to, for example, a commercial power supply (external power supply) in a playground or the like. Then, based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, the operating power required for each of the main control board 601 and the payout control device 181 is generated, and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. To do. Further, the power supply / launch control device 191 is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 110, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 is driven when a predetermined launch condition is satisfied.

The MPU 612 is mounted on the notification / effect control board 611 provided in the notification / effect control device 610. The MPU 612 is a memory for temporarily storing various data and the like when executing a ROM 613 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 612 and a control program stored in the ROM 613. It has a built-in RAM 614, interrupt circuit, timer circuit, data input / output circuit, and so on.

The MPU 612 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. Light emitting units 26 to 28, a speaker unit 29, an elevating device 96 of the variable display unit 91, a display control device 620, and the like are connected to the output side of the MPU 612.

The MPU 612 controls the variable display unit 91 based on the command input from the main control device 162. Specifically, the notification / effect control device 610 grasps the variation display time (presence / absence of occurrence of reach effect) of the symbol in the symbol display device 92 based on various commands input from the main control device 162, and finally. The type of combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed is determined, and the details of the reach effect are determined. Further, the position (upper display position / lower display position) of the variable display unit 91 is switched based on various commands input from the main control device 162.

The display control device 620 has a display control board on which the MPU is mounted, and the MPU has various control programs, a program ROM that stores fixed value data, and various types of control programs that are stored in the program ROM. Built-in work RAM, which is a memory for temporarily storing data, video display processor (VDP), character ROM for storing image data, video RAM for temporarily storing image data read from the character ROM, etc. Has been done.

The VDP is a kind of drawing circuit that directly operates an image processing device as a liquid crystal display unit driver incorporated in the symbol display device 92. Since VDP is an IC chip, it is also called a "drawing chip", and its substance can be said to be a microcomputer chip with a built-in firmware dedicated to drawing processing. The VDP adjusts the timings of the MPU, the video RAM, and the like to intervene in reading and writing the data, and reads the image data stored in the video RAM from the character ROM at a predetermined timing and displays it on the symbol display device 92.

The character ROM plays a role as an image data library for storing character data such as a symbol displayed on the symbol display device 92. The character ROM holds bitmap format image data of various display symbols, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like. These image data, tables, etc. are stored in the character ROM.

The video RAM is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 92, and the display content of the symbol display device 92 is changed by rewriting the contents of the video RAM.

The MPU of the display control device 620 executes the display control of the symbol display device 92 based on the command input from the notification / effect control device 610. Specifically, the variation display is performed for each game according to the content of the variation display finally determined by the notification / effect control device 610 and the type of combination of the symbols to be stopped and displayed.

Here, the display contents of the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. 11 and 12 are schematic views showing a display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92.

(About display contents)
As shown in FIG. 11, three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 on the left, middle, and right are set on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, and correspond to each of these symbol rows Z1 to Z3. A left fluctuation display area SEL, a middle fluctuation display area SEC, and a right fluctuation display area SER are provided. In each symbol sequence Z1 to Z3, nine types of symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in descending order of numbers, and on the display screen 92a, the symbols of each symbol sequence Z1 to Z3 are predetermined with periodicity. It is variablely displayed so as to scroll in the direction, and the combination of symbols according to the lottery result (game result) based on the entry into the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63 is stopped and displayed on the effective line SL. For example, the variation display is stopped in the order of left symbol row Z1 → right symbol row Z3 → middle symbol row Z2, and all symbol rows Z1 are formed in a state where a combination of symbols with the same number is formed on one of the effective lines. When the variable display of ~ Z3 is completed, a jackpot moving image showing that the normal jackpot result or the probability variation jackpot result, which will be described later, has been obtained is displayed.

The mode of variable display of symbols in the symbol display device 92 is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary, such as the number of symbol rows, the direction of variable display of symbols in the symbol rows, the number of symbols in each symbol row, and the like. Can be changed as appropriate. Further, the symbols that are variablely displayed by the symbol display device 92 are not limited to the symbols as described above, and for example, the configuration includes only the symbols without numbers or the symbols without numbers. May be good.

To further explain the mode of the variation display of the symbol in the symbol display device 92, in the pachinko machine 10, the reach display is performed as a stage before the combination of the corresponding symbols is stopped and displayed when the jackpot result is notified as described above. Is set to. The reach display (reach effect or reach state) is provided with a symbol display device 92 capable of performing variable display (or variable display) of a symbol (picture), and in a game time in which the variable winning device 64 is opened / closed. In a gaming machine in which the stop display result after the variation display is a special display result, after the variation display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 92 is started, before the stop display result is derived and displayed. , The display state for making the player think that it is a variable display state that tends to be the above-mentioned special display result.

In other words, by stopping and displaying some of the symbols among the plurality of symbol rows displayed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is established. It is a display state in which a combination of reach symbols that may be displayed is displayed, and in that state, a variable display of symbols is performed in the remaining symbol rows.

More specifically, as a preliminary step to end the variable display of the symbol, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is placed on the preset effective line SL in the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a combination of reach symbols that may be established, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a variable display of symbols is performed by the final stop symbol sequence.

To give a supplementary explanation of the reach display based on FIG. 12, the same as the effective line SL in the state where the variation display of the symbol is first completed in the left symbol column Z1 and then the variation display of the symbol is completed in the right symbol column Z3. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the symbol with the number, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a variable display of the symbol is performed in the middle symbol row Z2 to display the reach. Then, when the open / close execution mode occurs, the symbol that is the same as the symbol forming the reach line is stopped and displayed on the reach line, and the variation display of the symbol in the middle symbol row Z2 is terminated.

Further, in the reach display, in the state where the combination of reach symbols is displayed as described above, the remaining symbol strings are displayed in a variable manner, and a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image on the background screen to reach the reach. Includes those that perform an effect, and those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen 92a after reducing or hiding the combination of reach symbols.

When the normal game state is changed to the special game state (open / close execution mode), the display content on the symbol display device 92 also changes accordingly. In the present embodiment, as the display mode in the symbol display device 92, a normal display mode corresponding to the normal game state and a special display mode corresponding to the special game state are provided, and the transition to the special game state can be performed. Along with this, the display mode switches from the normal display mode to the special display mode. As shown in FIG. 12, during the special display mode, the center of the display screen 92a is set as the display area of the moving image corresponding to the open / close execution mode. Further, in the upper corner of the display screen 92a, information for identifying the currently ongoing round and information indicating the privilege (total number of prize balls) obtained during the opening / closing execution mode are displayed.

(About various counters)
Next, an electrical configuration for performing various lottery with the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 will be described with reference to FIG.

The MPU 602 uses various counter information at the time of the game to perform a big hit generation lottery, a big hit type lottery, a display setting of the display unit for the operation entry part, an outline setting of the symbol display of the symbol display device 92, and the like. The jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery for the occurrence of jackpots, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type such as the 16R probability variation jackpot result and the 16R normal jackpot result, and the deviation result on the symbol display device 92. The reach random number counter C3 used for the reach lottery when performing the corresponding fluctuation display, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the display unit for the operating ball entry unit, and the symbol display device 92. It is decided to use the fluctuation type counter CS that determines the fluctuation display time in. Further, the electric accessory opening counter C4 used for lottery as to whether or not the electric accessory 66 of the lower actuating entry unit 63 is set to the electric service open state (support state) is used. The counters C1 to C4, CINI, and CS are provided in various counter areas of the RAM 604.

Each of the counters C1 to C4, CINI, and CS is a loop counter in which 1 is added to the previous value each time the counter is updated, and the counter returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in the lottery counter buffer 631 set in a predetermined area of the RAM 604. The information stored in the lottery counter buffer 631 (information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3) is the RAM 604 when a prize is generated in the operating entry units 62 and 63. It is stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 provided as the "acquisition information storage means".

The holding ball storage area 632 includes a holding area RE for the operating port and an execution area AE. The holding area RE includes a holding area Ra for the upper working port composed of the first area Ra1 to the fourth area Ra4 and a holding area Rb for the lower working port composed of the first area Rb1 to the fourth area Rb4. The numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 stored in the lottery counter buffer 631 is set as the pending information according to the winning history of the operating ball entry units 62 and 63. It is stored in any of the areas Ra1 to Ra4 and Rb1 to Rb4. The reserved information corresponds to "special information".

Further, the reserved ball storage area 632 is provided with a total reserved number storage area FE, and the total reserved number storage area FE is a hold acquired and stored based on the entry into the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63. Information for specifying the number of stored information is stored.

The execution area AE is an area for moving each numerical information stored in the first areas Ra1 and Rb1 of the hold area RE when the variable display of the operation entry unit display unit is started, and is one game time. At the start of the operation, a hit / fail judgment is performed based on various numerical information stored in the execution area AE. In the present embodiment, when the hold information is stored for both the upper actuated ball entry portion 62 and the lower actuated ball entry portion 63, the hold information relating to the lower actuated ball entry portion 63 has priority. It is configured to move to the execution area AE. The order of digestion of reserved information is not limited to the above. It is also possible to transfer the hold information related to the upper actuating ball entry unit 62 and the hold information related to the lower actuating ball entry unit 63 to the execution area AE in the order in which they are stored.

The jackpot random number counter C1 has a configuration in which, for example, 1 is added in order within the range of 0 to 599, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The jackpot random number counter C1 is periodically updated, and is stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the activated ball entry units 62 and 63.

The value of the random number that wins the jackpot is stored as a hit / miss table (hit / miss information group) in the hit / miss table storage area 603a as the hit / miss information group storage means in the ROM 603. As the pass / fail table, a pass / fail table for the low probability mode (low probability pass / fail information group) and a pass / fail table for the high probability mode (high probability pass / fail information group) are set. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery mode in the winning / losing lottery means.

Under the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the low probability mode is referred to in the above lottery, the random number values (that is, winning information) for winning the jackpot are three, "7", "307", and "507". Is. That is, among the values of the jackpot random number counter C1 of "0" to "599", "7", "307", and "507" correspond to the jackpot results, and the jackpot probability is 1/200.

On the other hand, in the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the high probability mode is referred to in the above lottery, the random number values (that is, winning information) for winning the jackpot are "7", "107" ... "407". , "507". That is, among the values of the jackpot random number counter C1 from "0" to "599", "7", "107" ... "407", "507" correspond to the jackpot results, and the jackpot probability is low probability mode. (1/100 for details).

If the winning probability of the high probability mode is higher than that of the low probability mode, the number and value of the random numbers to be won are arbitrary.

The jackpot type counter C2 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 29, reach the maximum value (that is, 29), and then return to 0. Here, in the present embodiment, the distribution destination of the game result using the jackpot type counter C2 (that is, the lottery result by the winning / losing lottery and the distribution lottery) is stored in the distribution table as the distribution information group storage means in the ROM 603. It is stored in the area as a distribution table (distribution information group). Here, the contents of the distribution table will be described. As the distribution table, a distribution table for the upper actuating ball entry section (first distribution information group) and a distribution table for the lower actuating ball entry section (second distribution information group) are set. There is.

In the distribution table for the upper actuated ball entry section, 16R probability variation jackpot result (high probability correspondence special game result), 16R normal jackpot result (low probability correspondence special game result), 8R probability variation jackpot result are distributed to the game result. (High-probability special game result) and 8R normal jackpot result (low-probability special game result) are set. Specifically, in the distribution table for the upper actuating ball entry section, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 8" corresponds to the 16R probability variation jackpot result, and "9". "~ 14" corresponds to the 16R normal jackpot result, "15-23" corresponds to the 8R probability variation jackpot result, and "24 to 29" corresponds to the 8R normal jackpot result.

In the distribution table for the lower operating ball entry section, 16R probability variation jackpot result (high probability corresponding special game result) and 16R normal jackpot result (high probability corresponding special game result) are set as the distribution destination of the game result. There is. Specifically, in the distribution table for the upper actuating ball entry section, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 17" corresponds to the 16R probability variation jackpot result, and "18". ~ 29 ”corresponds to the 16R normal jackpot result.

The 16R probability variation jackpot result and the 8R probability variation jackpot result are jackpot results in which the lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the end of the open / close execution mode. This high frequency support mode will continue after the transition until the next jackpot result.

The 16R normal jackpot result and the 8R normal jackpot result are jackpot results in which the lottery mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the end of the open / close execution mode. However, this high-frequency support mode ends when the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the end of the open / close execution mode, and the mode shifts to the low-frequency support mode.

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 238, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 238). The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated, and is stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the activated ball entry units 62 and 63. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area RE of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins in the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63. Then, it is decided whether or not to generate the reach based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 603. However, in the game round that shifts to the open / close execution mode, the MPU 602 determines the reach generation regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3.

The variation type counter CS is configured to be incremented by 1 in order in the range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The variation type counter CS is used in the MPU 602 to determine the variation display time in the display unit for the operating ball entry unit and the variation display time of the symbol in the symbol display device 92. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time the normal process described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, when the symbol display device 92 determines the fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation of the symbol, the buffer value of the fluctuation type counter CS is acquired.

When determining the fluctuation display time in the symbol display device 92 or the main display unit 77 (display unit for the operating ball entry unit), the buffer value of the reach random number counter C3 and the fluctuation type counter CS, and the fluctuation display time table storage area of the ROM 603 are stored. The stored variable display time table is referenced. Further, in the MPU 602, the stop result (picture) in the operation entry unit display unit is determined by using the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the value of the jackpot type counter C2 stored in the execution area AE. In making the determination, the stop result table stored in the stop result table storage area of ROM 603 is used.

The electric accessory release counter C4 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 249, reach the maximum value (that is, 249), and then return to 0. The electric accessory opening counter C4 is periodically updated, and is stored in the electric service holding area 633 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the through gate 65. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to control the electric accessory 66 attached to the lower actuating entry unit 63 to the open state according to the value of the stored electric accessory opening counter C4. For example, if C4 = 0 to 199, the electric accessory 66 is controlled to the open state, and if C4 = 200 to 249, the electric accessory 66 is not controlled to the open state.

(About various processes executed by the main controller 162)
Next, the timer interrupt processing and the normal processing executed in order to advance the game in each game time by the MPU 602 in the main control device 162 will be described. In the MPU 602, in addition to the timer interrupt processing and the normal processing, the main processing activated when the power is turned on and the NMI interrupt processing activated by inputting a power failure signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal) are executed. , The description of these various processes will be omitted.

(Timer interrupt processing)
First, the timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is started periodically (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec) by the MPU 602.

In step S101, reading processing of various winning detection sensors is executed. That is, various winning detection sensors connected to the main control device 162 (detection sensor 151 for the upper general winning opening 61U, detection sensor 152 for the lower general winning opening 61L, detection sensor 153 for the upper operating ball entry portion 62). , The detection sensor 154 for the lower actuating ball entry unit 63, the detection sensor 155 for the variable winning device 64, and the detection sensor 156 for the through gate) are read, and the status of these winning detection sensors is determined and the detection information ( Winning detection information) is saved in the buffer area.

After that, in step S102, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter value reaches the maximum value. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the following step S103, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory release counter C4 are each incremented by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum values, they are cleared to 0, respectively. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the following step S104, a winning process for thru accompanying the winning of the thru gate 65 is executed. In the winning process for through, first, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 65 based on the winning detection information stored in the buffer area. When it is determined that the game ball has passed through the through gate 65, whether or not the number of accessory holdings stored in the electric service holding area 633 (electrical service holding number SN) is less than the upper limit number (4). To judge. When the number of stored items held is less than 4, the number of items held for electric service SN is added by 1, and the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 is stored in the electric service holding area. In addition, a process for lighting the hold number display unit DH of the main display unit 77 corresponding to the hold storage number is executed. If it is determined that the game ball has not passed through the through gate 65, or if the number of stored bonuses held has reached the upper limit, the winning process for through is terminated as it is.

After executing the winning process for the through gate, the process proceeds to step S105, and in the step S105, the winning process for the operating port accompanying the winning of the operating ball entry portions 62 and 63 is executed, and this timer interrupt process is terminated. .. Here, the winning process for the operating port will be described.

(Prize processing for operating port)
In the winning process for the operating port, first, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (winned) the upper operating entry portion 62. When it is determined that the game ball has entered the upper actuated entry unit 62, a prize ball command for paying out three game balls is set in the payout control device 181 and the game is played in the upper actuated entry unit 62. External signal setting processing is performed to output a signal indicating that the ball has entered the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC grasps that the ball has entered the upper actuating ball entry unit 62. After that, information acquisition processing for storing each value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 is performed, and the main winning process is completed.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the game ball has not won the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (win) the lower actuating ball entry section 63. When it is determined that the game ball has entered the lower actuating entry unit 63, a prize ball command for paying out four game balls is set in the payout control device 181 and the lower actuating entry unit 63 is set. An external signal setting process is performed to output a signal indicating that the game ball has entered the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC grasps that the ball has entered the lower actuating ball entry unit 63. After that, information acquisition processing for storing each value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 is performed, and the main winning process is completed.

If neither the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 nor the lower actuating ball entry section 63 has entered the ball, the main winning process is terminated as it is. The prize ball command set in the main winning process is transmitted to the payout control device 181 in the external output process of the normal process described later.

(Normal processing)
Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is started when the power is turned on is executed, and in the normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, the processes of steps S201 to S206 are executed as periodic processes having a cycle of 4 msec, and the counter update processes of steps S208 and S209 are executed in the remaining time.

In the normal processing, first, the external signal output processing is executed in step S201. In the external signal output process of step S201, output data such as a timer interrupt process or a command set in the previous normal process is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence or absence of the prize ball command is determined, and if the prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 and the payout control device 181. In addition, if various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, and other effects commands, a hold command, and a shift command, which will be described later, are set, they are transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610. To do.

Next, in step S202, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the fluctuation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, the counter value is cleared to 0. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the following step S203, a game time control process for controlling the game in each game time is executed. In this game time control process, jackpot determination, setting of an outline of a symbol variation display mode by the symbol display device 92, display control of the main display unit 77, and the like are performed.

After executing the game times control process in step S203, the process proceeds to step S204 to execute the game state transition process. By this game state transition process, the game state shifts to the open / close execution mode, the high probability mode, the high frequency support mode, and the like.

In the following step S205, an electric service support process for driving and controlling the electric accessory 66 provided in the lower actuating ball entry unit 63 is executed. In this electric service support process, the electric service is released depending on whether or not the electric service 66 is opened by using the numerical information acquired from the electric service release counter C4 stored in the electric service holding area 633 of the RAM 604. In addition to the lottery, if the electric accessory is won in the open state, the electric accessory 66 is opened and closed. Further, the display control of the through gate display unit of the main display unit 77 is performed so as to teach the lottery result of the electric service opening lottery.

As described above, the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode are set as the support modes by the electric accessory 66, and the game state transition process shifts to either support mode. After this process, when the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 604, the high frequency support mode is set, and when the flag is not set, the low frequency support mode is set.

In the electric service support process, it is determined whether or not the high frequency support mode is set by determining whether or not the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 604. Then, in the case of the high-frequency support mode, the number of times the electric accessory 66 is in the open state is set more than in the case of the low-frequency support mode, and once the electric accessory 66 is in the open state. Set a long opening time. Further, in the high frequency support mode, when the electric accessory open state is won and the electric accessory 66 is opened a plurality of times, the next open state is started after one open state is completed. The closing time is set to be shorter than the one-time opening time.

By the way, when the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode, the support mode is forcibly set to the low frequency support mode even if the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 604.

After that, in step S206, the game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid 111 of the game ball launch mechanism 110 is excited once in a predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that the launch permission signal is input from the power supply / launch control device 191. To do. As a result, the game ball is launched toward the game area PE.

After executing the game ball launch control process in step S206, it is determined in step S207 whether or not the power failure flag is stored in the power failure flag storage area provided in the RAM 604. The power failure flag is stored by outputting a power failure signal from the power failure monitoring board 605 to the NMI terminal of the MPU 602 of the main control board 601 when the power failure is confirmed on the power failure monitoring board 605, and the power is turned on again. It is a flag that is erased when it is issued.

If the power failure flag is not stored, it means that the last processing of the plurality of processes to be repeatedly executed has been completed. Therefore, whether or not the execution timing of the next normal processing has been reached in step S208, that is, the previous normal processing It is determined whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed from the start of the process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is reached.

Here, since the execution time of each process of steps S201 to S206 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and fluctuates. Therefore, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1) can be randomly updated by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, and similarly. The variable type counter CS can also be updated at random.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S207 that the power failure flag is stored, the power supply is cut off, so the power failure processing in step S211 and subsequent steps is executed. That is, in step S211, the occurrence of timer interrupt processing is prohibited, then the RAM determination value is calculated and saved in step S212, access to RAM 604 is prohibited in step S213, and then the power supply is completely shut off for processing. Continues an infinite loop until can no longer be executed.

(Game times control process)
Here, the game times control process in step S203 will be supplementarily described. In the game time control process, first, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. If the open / close execution mode is in progress, the game round control process is terminated as it is. If it is not in the open / close execution mode, it is determined whether or not the game is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the display unit for the operation entry portion of the main display unit 77 is in the variable display or the final display. If the display unit for the operating ball entry unit is neither in the variable display nor in the final display, the process proceeds to the game round start process. In the game round start process, first, it is determined whether or not the total number of start hold balls (common hold number CRN) is "0". When the common hold number CRN is "0", it means that the hold information is not stored in the hold ball storage area 632. Therefore, the game times control process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the common hold number CRN is not "0", the data setting process for setting the data stored in the hold area RE of the hold ball storage area 632 for the variable display is executed, and further, the main display unit is executed. After executing the variation start process for starting the variation display in 77 and the variation display in the symbol display device 92, the game round control process is terminated.

In the data setting process, first, among the start hold ball numbers N stored in the hold number storage area FE, the one that is the target of the current setting process and the common hold number CRN are decremented by one. Subsequently, the data stored in the first areas Ra1 and Rb1 of the hold area RE are moved to the execution area AE. After that, the process of shifting the data (that is, the hold information) stored in each area Ra1 to Ra4 and Rb1 to Rb4 of the hold area RE is executed. By performing this data shift processing, the data stored in the first area Ra1, Rb1 to the fourth areas Ra4 and Rb4 are sequentially shifted to the lower area side.

After shifting the data, a shift command is set, which is information for causing the notification / effect control device 610 to recognize that the data in the holding area has been shifted. After that, this data setting process ends. The shift command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). By receiving the shift time command, the notification / effect control device 610 executes a process for changing the display of the hold lamp units 94 and 95 in accordance with the decrease in the number of hold lamps.

(Fluctuation start processing)
In the fluctuation start process, the hit / fail determination process is first executed. In the win / fail determination process, it is determined whether the lottery mode is the high probability mode or the low probability mode. In the case of the high probability mode, the hit / fail table for the high probability mode is referred to among the tables stored in the hit / miss table storage area, and the hit / miss judgment information among the information stored in the execution area AE, that is, the jackpot It is determined whether or not the numerical information applied to the random number counter C1 matches the jackpot numerical information for high probability. Further, in the case of the low probability mode, the numerical information related to the jackpot random number counter C1 stored in the execution area AE is referred to among the tables stored in the hit / miss table storage area for the low probability mode. Judges whether or not matches the jackpot numerical information for low probability.

If a big hit result is obtained in the hit / fail judgment process, the big hit type judgment process is executed. In this type determination process, among the information stored in the execution area AE, the information for type determination, that is, the information acquired from the information updated by the jackpot type counter C2 is grasped. Further, referring to the distribution table stored in the distribution table storage area of ROM 603, the information for the type determination grasped above corresponds to the 16R probability variation jackpot result, the information corresponding to the 8R probability variation jackpot result, 16R normal. It is specified whether the information corresponding to the jackpot result or the information corresponding to the 8R normal jackpot result is included. For details, when the hold information corresponds to the entry into the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, the distribution table for the upper actuating entry section 62 is referred to, and the hold information is the lower actuating entry section 62. When the ball enters the 63, the type is determined by referring to the distribution table for the lower actuating entry unit 63.

Subsequently, the stop result setting process for the jackpot is executed based on the information specified in the above type determination process. If it is determined that the jackpot is not won (if the result is a loss), the stop result setting process for the loss is executed. In each stop result setting process, information on the mode of the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 77 is stored in the stop result table storage area of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the ROM 603. Is specified, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604. In addition, information for specifying the determination result this time is stored in various flag storage areas of the RAM 604. Specifically, the 16R probability variation jackpot flag is stored in the case of a 16R probability variation jackpot result, the 8R probability variation jackpot flag is stored in the case of an 8R probability variation jackpot result, and the 16R normal jackpot flag is stored in the case of a 16R normal jackpot result. The jackpot flag is stored, and if the result is an 8R normal jackpot, the 8R normal jackpot flag is stored.

After that, the variable display time setting process is executed. The variable display time of each game is determined based on various information such as the number of stored information on hold, the presence or absence of reach, and the result of the hit / fail judgment. After executing the fluctuation display time setting process, the fluctuation command and the type command are set. The fluctuation command includes information on whether or not reach has occurred and information on the fluctuation display time. In addition, the type command includes information on the game result. That is, the type command includes 16R probability variation jackpot result information, 8R probability variation jackpot result information, 16R normal jackpot result information, 8R normal jackpot result information, loss result information, and the like as game result information.

The variation command and the type command set in the above process are transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The notification / effect control device 610 determines the light emission pattern of the annular illumination unit 26 and the sound output pattern from the speaker unit 29 in the game round based on the received variation command and type command, and the determined effect. The annular illumination unit 26 and the speaker unit 29 are controlled so that the contents of the above are executed. Further, the notification / effect control device 610 transmits the variation command and the type command to the display control device 620 while maintaining the information form. The display control device 620 grasps the fluctuation display pattern in the symbol display device 92 in the game round based on the received variation command and type command, and the symbol display device so as to execute the grasped variation display pattern. Display control of 92. After that, after starting the variation display of the pattern on the display units DL and DU for the operation entry portion of the main display unit 77, the main variation start process is terminated.

Returning to the description of the game time control process, if the display unit for the operation entry portion of the main display unit 77 is in the variable display, the game time progress process is executed. In the game round progress process, it is first determined whether or not the variation display time of the current game round has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the fluctuation display counter stored in the fluctuation display time counter area of the RAM 604 is "0". The value of the fluctuation display counter is set in the above-mentioned fluctuation display time setting process. Further, the value of the set fluctuation display counter is decremented (subtracted) by 1 each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 14) is activated.

If the variable display time has not elapsed, the variable display process is executed. In the variation display process, the display mode of the main display unit 77 for the operation entry portion is changed. After that, the game round control process is terminated.

If the fluctuation display time has elapsed, the fluctuation end processing is executed. In the variable end process, the information stored in the RAM 604 is specified in the stop result setting process, and the operation entry unit of the main display unit 77 is stopped and displayed so that the pattern corresponding to the information is stopped and displayed on the main display unit 77. Controls the display unit. Subsequently, a variable end command is set to end the game times control process. The set variable end command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The notification / effect control device 610 transmits the received fluctuation end command to the display control device 620 while maintaining the information form. When the display control device 620 receives the change end command, the combination of the final stop symbols in the game round is confirmed and displayed (final stop display) on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92.

(Game state transition process)
Next, the game state transition process in step S204 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 16 and 17.

In the game state transition process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. If it is not in the open / close execution mode, the process proceeds to step S302, and it is determined whether or not it is the timing when the variation display of the pattern on the display unit for the upper actuating ball entry unit or the display unit for the lower actuating ball entry unit of 1 game times is completed. To do. If it is not the timing when the variation display is finished, the game state transition process is finished as it is.

If the variable display has ended, more specifically, if the preset stop display period (fixed display period) has elapsed since the variable display ended, the process proceeds to step S303, and this game It is determined whether or not the result of the game (the result of the above-mentioned winning / losing lottery) corresponds to the transition to the open / close execution mode. Specifically, it is determined whether or not any of the 16R probability variation jackpot result correspondence flag, the 8R probability variation jackpot result correspondence flag, the 16R normal jackpot result correspondence flag, and the 8R normal jackpot result correspondence flag is stored in the RAM 604. If none of the above flags is stored, the game state transition process is terminated as it is.

If any of the above flags is stored, the start processing of the open / close execution mode is executed in step S304. By the start processing, the operation restriction of the variable winning device 64 by the lock device is released, and the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 64 is allowed until the opening / closing execution mode ends. In the following step S305, "16" or "8" is set in the open number counter OC provided in various counter areas of the RAM 604 according to the type of jackpot.

After executing the process of step S305, the opening command is set in step S306. This set opening command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 and the display control device 620 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The notification / effect control device 610 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the opening / closing execution mode based on the received opening command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed. After executing the process of step S306, the external signal setting process is executed in step S307 to end the game state transition process.

In the external signal setting process of step S307, it is determined whether or not any of the various jackpot correspondence flags is stored in the RAM 604, and if any of the flags is stored, the management control device on the game hall side. Preparations are made for outputting a signal indicating that a jackpot has occurred to (Hall Computer HC), and the signal is transmitted to the management control device in step S201 of the normal process (FIG. 15). Based on this signal, the management control device can grasp that the pachinko machine 10 has shifted to the open / close execution mode.

Returning to the description of step S301, if it is determined in step S301 that the opening / closing execution mode is in progress, the process proceeds to step S308. In step S308, it is determined whether or not the waiting time for the opening has elapsed. If the waiting time for the opening has not elapsed, the game state transition process is terminated as it is. If the waiting time for the opening has elapsed, the large winning opening opening / closing process is executed in step S309. Here, the opening / closing process of the large winning opening will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Opening and closing of the winning opening)
In the large winning opening opening / closing process, first, in step S401, it is determined whether or not the variable winning device 64 (large winning opening) is open. Specifically, such a determination is made based on the driving state of the variable winning drive unit in the variable winning device 64. If the variable winning device 64 is not open, it is determined in step S402 whether or not the value of the open number counter OC is “0”. If an affirmative decision is made in step S402, the opening / closing process of the main prize opening is terminated as it is.

If a negative determination is made in step S402, the process proceeds to step S403. In step S403, it is determined whether or not the value of the open timer counter TC is “0”. The open timer counter TC is a counter that is referred to when grasping the open period or interval period of the variable winning device 64, and its value is decremented by "1" each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 14) is executed. To. If a negative determination is made in step S403, the opening / closing process of the winning opening is terminated.

If the value of the open number counter OC is not "0" and the value of the open timer counter TC is "0", the process proceeds to step S404 to execute the open process of the variable winning device 64. Specifically, the variable winning drive unit is set to the driving state in order to open the variable winning device 64. After that, as a closing condition setting process (opening setting process) of the variable winning device 64, first, "15000" (corresponding to 30 sec) is set in the open timer counter TC in step S405, and then the winning counter is set in step S406. Set "10" on the PC.

After that, the opening command is set in step S407, and the opening / closing process of the main winning opening is completed. This set release command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The notification / effect control device 610 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the release based on the received release command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed.

Returning to the description of step S401, if it is determined in step S401 that the variable winning device 64 (large winning opening) is open, the process proceeds to step S409, and whether or not the value of the open timer counter TC is "0". To judge. If the value of the open timer counter TC is not "0", the process proceeds to step S409, and whether or not a prize has been generated in the variable winning device 64 is determined based on the detection signal from the detection sensor 155 corresponding to the variable winning device 64. judge. If no prize has been won, the opening / closing process of the main prize opening is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when a prize has been won, the output process of the prize command is executed in step S410. The winning command is output to the notification / effect control device 610, and the effect in the open / close execution mode executed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92 is changed by the winning command.

After executing the command output process in step S410, the process proceeds to step S411. In step S411, the value of the winning counter PC is decremented by 1, and in the following step S412, it is determined whether or not the value of the winning counter PC is "0". If it is not "0", the opening / closing process of the main winning opening is performed as it is. finish.

When an affirmative judgment is made in step S412, that is, when the value of the winning counter PC is "0", or when a positive judgment is made in step S408 (that is, it is determined that the value of the open timer counter TC is "0". If), it means that the conditions for closing the large winning opening have been met. In this case, in step S413, the variable winning drive unit is set to the non-driving state in order to close the variable winning device 64.

In the following step S414, the update processing of the open number counter OC is executed. Specifically, when the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", the open number counter OC is decremented by 1, and when the value of the open number counter OC is "0", the open number counter OC is performed. Keep the value of "0". After that, in step S415, it is determined whether or not the value of the open number counter OC is "0". If the value of the open number counter OC is not "0", the process proceeds to step S416. In step S416, “150” (corresponding to 0.3 sec) is set in the open timer counter TC.

After executing the process of step S416, the closing command is set in step S417, and the opening / closing process of the main winning opening is completed. This set closing command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15). The notification / effect control device 610 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the closing command based on the received closing command, and controls various devices so that the content of the determined effect is executed.

Returning to the description of step S415, if it is determined in step S415 that the value of the open number counter OC is "0", the process proceeds to step S418. In step S418, the ending process is executed. In the start process, an ending waiting time for waiting without starting the next game round for the ending of the open / close execution mode is set. Specifically, the waiting time information for the ending stored in advance in the ROM 603 is set in the waiting time counter areas provided in the various counter areas of the RAM 604.

After that, in step S419, after setting the ending command, the opening / closing process of the main winning opening is completed. The set ending command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 610 in step S201 in the normal process (FIG. 15).

Regarding the ending command in the present embodiment, similarly to the above-mentioned opening command, the first type ending command corresponding to the probability variation jackpot result and the second type ending corresponding to the normal jackpot result according to the situation at the time of transition to the open / close execution mode, etc. Commands are provided, and the background image and the like that shift after the open / close execution mode are set according to these various commands.

Returning to the explanation of the game state transition process (FIG. 16), after executing the large winning opening opening / closing process in step S309, in step S310, it is determined whether or not the value of the open number counter OC is "0", and the value is determined. In step S311 it is determined whether or not the waiting time for the ending has elapsed. If the value of the open number counter OC is not "0" or the waiting time for the ending has not elapsed, the game state transition process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the value of the open number counter OC is "0" and the waiting time for the ending has elapsed, in step S312, after executing the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode, this game End the state transition process.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the 16R probability variation jackpot result or the 8R probability variation jackpot result is obtained, the game state shifts to the high probability mode and the high frequency support mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. , 16R normal jackpot result or 8R normal jackpot result, after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the game state shifts to the low probability mode and the high frequency support mode (with a limited number of times).

As described above, the variable display unit 91 (design display device 92) shown in the present embodiment is movable, and the display position is closer to the upper actuating entry portion 62 depending on the game situation. It is configured to switch to the lower display position closer to the side-operated ball entry unit 63 (variable winning device 64). Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 18, the position control process for the variable display unit 91 executed by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610 as a part of the periodic process will be described.

(Position control processing)
In the position control process, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the variable display unit 91 is waiting at the upper display position. If an affirmative determination is made in step S501, the process proceeds to step S502.

In step S502, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the open / close execution mode. Specifically, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to start the open / close execution mode based on whether or not the opening command is received from the main control device 162. If a negative determination is made in step S502, the position control process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S502, the process proceeds to step S503.

In step S503, a process of moving the variable display unit 91 from the upper display position to the lower display position is performed. Specifically, the movement restriction of the variable display unit 91 by the lock device attached to the elevating device 96 is released. After that, a drive signal corresponding to the descent is output to the elevating device 96 (motor 98) to move the variable display unit 91 from the upper display position to the lower display position.

Returning to the description of step S501, if a negative determination is made in step S501, that is, if the variable display unit 91 is not waiting at the upper display position, the process proceeds to step S504. In step S504, it is determined whether or not it is the timing when the high-frequency support mode ends without a big hit result during the high-frequency support mode. As already explained, when a normal jackpot result is obtained, the mode shifts to the high frequency support mode with a limited number of times. In step S504, based on the command from the main control device 162, it is determined whether or not to shift to the low frequency support mode without a big hit result during the high frequency support mode. If a negative determination is made in step S504, the main position control process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S504, the process proceeds to step S505.

In step S505, a process of moving the variable display unit 91 from the lower display position to the upper display position is performed. Specifically, the variable display unit 91 is moved from the lower display position to the upper display position by outputting a drive signal corresponding to the rise to the elevating device 96 (motor 98). After the movement to the upper display position is completed, the lock device is switched to the locked state to restrict the movement of the variable display unit 91.

In this way, the variable display unit 91 is arranged in the lower display position when the shift to the open / close execution mode is triggered, and is arranged in the upper display position when the shift to the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode is triggered. It has become.

In the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, the game proceeds based on the entry of the ball into the upper actuated ball entry portion 62, so that the game ball is launched aiming at the upper actuated ball entry section 62. Under such circumstances, the variable display unit 91 (symbol display device 92) stands by at the upper display position. As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 19A, in the state of being arranged at the upper display position, the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 and the upper general winning opening 61U are located in front of the symbol display device 92. That is, the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 and the upper general winning opening 61U overlap the symbol display device 92 from the front. By arranging the symbol display device 92 close to the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, which is easy for the player to pay attention to, it is possible to suppress oversight of the display effect displayed on the symbol display device 92. ..

In the open / close execution mode, the variable winning device 64 can be easily won, and the game ball is launched aiming at the variable winning device 64 for the purpose of winning the variable winning device 64 → increasing the number of balls held. .. Under such circumstances, the variable display unit 91 (symbol display device 92) stands by at the lower display position. As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 19B, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the lower display position, the symbol display device 92 is closer to the variable winning device 64, and the variable winning device 64 is closer to the variable winning device 64 than the upper actuating ball entry portion 62. The distance to and is reduced. By arranging the symbol display device 92 close to the variable winning device 64, which is easy for the player to pay attention to, it is possible to suppress oversight of the display effect displayed on the symbol display device 92.

In the normal game state corresponding to the high frequency support mode, it becomes easy to enter the lower actuated ball entry unit 63, and the game can be advantageously advanced based on the entry into the lower actuate ball entry unit 63. Therefore, the game ball is launched aiming at the lower actuating ball entry unit 63. Under such a situation, the variable display unit 91 (design display device 92) stands by at the lower display position. As shown in FIG. 19B, in the state of being arranged at the lower display position, the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 is located in front of the symbol display device 92. That is, the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 overlaps the symbol display device 92 from the front. By arranging the symbol display device 92 close to the lower actuating ball entry unit 63, which is easy for the player to pay attention to, it is possible to suppress oversight of the display effect displayed on the symbol display device 92. There is.

Here, as shown in FIG. 19A, a message (specifically, the characters “BONUS”) corresponding to the open / close execution mode is arranged on the second background sheet 99 provided on the back block 60b. This message is hidden behind the variable display unit 91 when the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the upper display position, and cannot be seen from the front of the game machine. As shown in FIG. 19A → FIG. 19B, when the variable display unit 91 moves from the upper display position to the lower display position with the transition to the open / close execution mode, the above message and the variable display unit 91 are displayed. The overlapping of the above is avoided, and the message can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine. In this way, as a result of moving the variable display unit 91 to the position corresponding to the open / close execution mode, a message indicating the open / close execution mode appears, thereby clearly indicating the transition to the open / close execution mode. There is.

A plurality of display modes (first display mode to third display mode) having different display modes such as patterns are set in the symbol display device 92, and the display mode is set according to the position of the symbol display device 92, that is, the game state. It is configured to switch. Here, the display mode switching process for the symbol display device 92, which is executed as a part of the periodic process by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20 (a).

(Display mode switching process)
In the display mode switching process, first, in step S601, it is determined whether or not it is the transition timing to the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode. Specifically, it is determined based on a command from the main control device 162 whether or not the high-frequency support mode has ended without a big hit during the high-frequency support mode. If an affirmative determination is made in step S601, the process proceeds to step S602.

In step S602, the process of switching to the first display mode is executed. In the process of switching to the first display mode, the first display mode switching command is transmitted to the display control device 620, and the BGM and sound effects output from the speaker unit 29 and the light emitting mode of the lamp unit 26 are set to the first display mode. Performs the process of switching to the one corresponding to. The display control device 620 switches the display mode of the symbol display device 92 to the first display mode by receiving the first display mode switching command. Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 21A, the display contents in the first display mode will be supplementarily described.

In the first display mode, three symbol sequences are displayed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, and the symbol sequences are scrolled and displayed based on the entry into the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63. When a ball enters the operating ball entry units 62 and 63, a lottery such as a big hit is executed, and the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed.

Further, a display area ME for displaying an image for notification of winning is provided between each symbol row (between the variable display areas). The display area ME is located on the display screen 92a above the upper general winning opening 61U, and a character image CP imitating a chick is displayed at the lower part of the display area ME (the lower end of the display screen 92a). Has been done. Specifically, the character image CP is displayed so that the head is out of the upper general winning opening 61U. A decoration 61aU imitating grass is provided on the front portion of the upper general winning opening 61U, and a pattern in which the character image CP looks out from the grass is configured. That is, one pattern is composed of the decoration 61aU of the upper general winning opening 61U and the character image CP of the display screen 92a. Although the details will be described later, when a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, the character image CP corresponding to the upper general winning opening 61U moves, and the player indicates that the upper general winning opening 61U has been won. Will be notified to.

Returning to the description of FIG. 20A, if a negative determination is made in step S601, the process proceeds to step S603. In step S603, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the open / close execution mode. Specifically, when an opening command is received from the main control device 162, an affirmative determination is made in step S603. If an affirmative determination is made in step S603, the process proceeds to step S604.

In step S604, the process of switching to the second display mode is executed. In the switching process to the second display mode, the second display mode switching command is transmitted to the display control device 620, and the BGM and sound effect output from the speaker unit 29 and the light emitting mode of the lamp unit 26 are set to the second display mode. Performs the process of switching to the one corresponding to. The display control device 620 switches the display mode of the symbol display device 92 to the first display mode by receiving the second display mode switching command. Here, the display contents in the second display mode will be supplementarily described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 21B.

In the second display mode, the ongoing round is displayed in the upper left corner of the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, and the total number of prize balls acquired during the opening / closing execution mode is displayed in the upper right corner. In addition, a pattern (not shown) imitating a treasure box is displayed at the lower center of the display screen 92a, and when a prize is awarded to the variable winning device 64, a large amount of coins are rolled up from the treasure box. It becomes.

Here, the coins that have soared from the treasure box will disappear below the display screen 92a after a predetermined period of time, but if a further prize is generated in the variable winning device 64 while the coins are being displayed, further prizes will be generated. The display will be updated so that a large number of coins will be rolled up to a higher position. That is, the variable winning device 64 is continuously awarded a prize, so that the scale of the display effect corresponding to the winning is expanded. In the present embodiment, the case where the next prize is generated before the previous prize notification is completed is defined as "continuous winning", and the case where the next prize is generated after the previous prize notification is completed is defined as "continuous winning". It is distinguished as "normal prize".

Further, on both the left and right sides of the display area of the coin and the treasure box, display area MEs for displaying images for notification of winning are provided. The display area ME is located on the display screen 92a above the lower general winning opening 61L, and a character image CP imitating a pigeon is located at the lower part of the display area ME (the lower end of the display screen 92a). It is displayed. Here, the lower general winning opening 61L and the display screen 92a are vertically separated from each other. The first background sheet 79 provided on the back surface of the game area forming body 60a straddles the display screen 92a and the lower general winning opening 61L when viewed from the front of the game machine. A bird's nest-like pattern 99a and a grass-like pattern 99b are provided on the straddling portion, and a bird's nest together with the above-mentioned pattern 99a is provided on the front portion of the lower general winning opening 61L. The decoration 61aL, which constitutes a pattern imitating the above, is applied.

The character image CP that imitates a pigeon is displayed so that its head protrudes upward from the first background sheet 79 (picture 99b that imitates grass). The pattern 1 is composed of the decoration 61aL of the lower general winning opening 61L, the first background sheet 79, and the character image CP of the display screen 92a. The details will be described later, but when a prize is generated in the lower general winning opening 61L, the character image CP corresponding to the lower general winning opening 61L moves, and the lower general winning opening 61L is won. Will be notified to the player.

Returning to the description of FIG. 20A, if a negative determination is made in step S603, the process proceeds to step S605. In step S605, it is determined whether or not it is the end timing of the open / close execution mode. That is, it is determined whether or not it is the transition timing to the normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode. Specifically, when the ending command is received from the main control device 162, an affirmative determination is made in step S605. If an affirmative determination is made in step S605, the process proceeds to step S606.

In step S606, the process of switching to the third display mode is executed. In the process of switching to the third display mode, the third display mode switching command is transmitted to the display control device 620, and the BGM and sound effects output from the speaker unit 29 and the light emitting mode of the lamp unit 26 are set to the third display mode. Performs the process of switching to the one corresponding to. The display control device 620 switches the display mode of the symbol display device 92 to the third display mode by receiving the third display mode switching command. Here, the display contents in the third display mode will be supplementarily described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 21A.

In the third display mode, three symbol sequences are displayed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, and the symbol sequences are scrolled and displayed based on the entry into the actuated ball entry units 62 and 63. When a ball enters the operating ball entry units 62 and 63, a lottery such as a big hit is executed, and the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed. The variable display mode of the symbol is the same as that of the first display mode.

In addition, display area MEs for displaying images for notification of winning are provided at both left and right ends of the display screen 92a. The display area ME is located on the display screen 92a above the lower general winning opening 61L, and a character image CP imitating a pigeon is located at the lower part of the display area ME (the lower end of the display screen 92a). It is displayed. Since the display mode of this character image CP is the same as that of the second display mode, the description is incorporated.

As described in detail above, the display mode becomes the first display mode in the normal game state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, and the display mode becomes the second display mode in the open / close execution mode (special game state), and the high frequency support mode In the corresponding normal gaming state, the display mode becomes the third display mode (see FIG. 20B). In the first display mode, when the game ball is launched aiming at the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, the main entry destinations thereof are the upper actuating entry section 62 and the upper general winning opening 61U (FIG. 6A). reference). In the second display mode, when the game ball is launched aiming at the variable winning device 64, the main winning destinations are the variable winning device 64 and the lower general winning opening 61L (see FIG. 6B). During the third display mode, the game ball is launched aiming at the lower actuating ball entry portion 63, so that the main entry destinations are the lower actuating entry section 63 and the lower general winning opening 61L (FIG. 6). See (b)).

Not only the position of the variable display unit 91 (symbol display device 92) is changed depending on the game state, but also the display mode in the symbol display device 92 is changed, and further, the main entry destination of the game ball is also changed. Then, the ball entry portion (for example, upper general winning opening 61U / lower general winning opening 61L) for which the winning notification is executed also changes according to the game state, the position of the variable display unit 91, and the display mode. .. Hereinafter, the winning notification processing corresponding to the upper general winning opening, which is executed as a part of the periodic processing by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Processing for winning notification for the upper general winning opening)
In the winning notification processing corresponding to the upper general winning opening, first, in step S701, it is determined whether or not the first display mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S701, the main winning notification processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S701, the process proceeds to step S702. In step S702, it is determined whether or not the upper general winning opening 61U has been won based on whether or not the winning command indicating the winning of the upper general winning opening 61U from the main control device 162 has been received.

If a negative determination is made in step S702, the main winning notification processing is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S702, the process proceeds to step S703 to determine whether or not the winning notification relating to the upper general winning opening 61U is being executed. If a negative determination is made in step S703, the normal winning notification execution processing is performed in step S704, and then the main winning notification processing is terminated.

In the normal winning notification execution process, the speaker unit 29 is driven to output a sound effect indicating the occurrence of a winning, and the light emitting unit attached to the upper general winning opening 61U is turned on. In addition, a normal winning notification command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 performs image display processing for normal winning notification based on the reception of the normal winning notification command. Here, the flow of the normal winning notification will be described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 23A.

In the normal winning notification, when the game ball B1 enters the upper general winning opening 61U (when a winning occurs), the character image CP waiting directly above the upper general winning opening 61U is moved to a predetermined position above. .. As a result, the chick (character image CP) can be made to appear as if it has jumped out of the grass (decoration 61aU of the upper general winning opening 61U).

When the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, the numerical image NP is displayed at a specific position above the predetermined position. In the present embodiment, when a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, three game balls (prize balls) are paid out. The number image NP is composed of numbers (characters) of "+3 get" as information clearly indicating this privilege.

The character image CP and the numerical image NP descend the display area ME with the passage of time. The character image CP continues to be displayed even after returning to the standby position, while the numeric image NP is hidden when it reaches the lower end of the display screen 92a. As a result, the state of waiting for the next prize notification is set.

The descent speed of the character image CP and the numerical image NP will be accelerated so as to increase with the passage of time. In other words, the difference is set so that the descent speed is slow at the upper part of the display area ME and the descent speed is high at the lower part.

Returning to the description of FIG. 22, if an affirmative determination is made in step S703, that is, if the next prize is generated during the prize notification, the process proceeds to step S705. In step S705, the continuous winning notification execution process is performed. In the present embodiment, similarly to the variable winning device 64, when the next winning of the upper general winning opening 61U occurs before the previous winning notification of the upper general winning opening 61U is completed. Is defined as "continuous winning", and the case where the next winning occurs after the previous winning notification is completed is distinguished as "normal winning".

In the continuous winning notification execution process, the speaker unit 29 is driven to output a sound effect indicating the occurrence of a winning, and the light emitting unit attached to the upper general winning opening 61U is turned on. In addition, a continuous winning notification command is output to the display control device 620. The display control device 620 performs image display processing for continuous winning notification based on the reception of the continuous winning notification command. Here, the flow of continuous winning notification will be described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 23 (b).

In the continuous winning notification, when the game ball B1 enters the upper general winning opening 61U (when a winning occurs), the character image CP waiting directly above the upper general winning opening 61U is moved to a predetermined position above. .. As a result, the chick (character image CP) can be made to appear as if it has jumped out of the grass (decoration 61aU of the upper general winning opening 61U).

When the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, the numerical image NP1 is displayed at a specific position above the predetermined position. In the present embodiment, when a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, three game balls (prize balls) are paid out. The number image NP1 is composed of numbers (characters) of "+3 get" as information clearly indicating this privilege.

The character image CP and the numerical image NP1 descend the display area ME with the passage of time. When the next game ball B2 enters the upper general winning opening 61U (when a winning occurs) while the winning notification continues in this way, the descending character image CP exceeds the predetermined position in the display area ME. Move to the upper limit position. That is, the chick (character image CP) jumps up in two stages. On the other hand, the number image NP2 is newly additionally displayed at the specific position (above the number image NP1), and the number images NP1 and NP2 are arranged vertically. The character image CP and the numerical images NP1 and NP2 descend the display area ME with the passage of time. The character image CP continues to be displayed even after returning to the standby position, while the numerical images NP1 and NP2 are hidden when they reach the lower end of the display screen 92a. As a result, the state of waiting for the next prize notification is set. The numerical images NP1 and NP2 are the same images.

Next, with reference to the timing chart of FIG. 24, the flow of winning notification will be supplementarily described. The first half of FIG. 24 shows a normal winning notification, and the second half of FIG. 24 shows a continuous winning notification.

First, the flow of normal winning notification will be described. When a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U at the timing of ta1, the character image CP displayed in the standby position starts moving from the standby position to the predetermined position. At the timing of ta2, the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, and it is impossible to move further upward. The numerical image NP is displayed at a specific position above the predetermined position as the character image CP reaches the predetermined position.

The character image CP moved to the predetermined position and the numerical image NP displayed at the specific position descend the display area ME with the passage of time. The descending speed of the character image CP is slower than the ascending speed when moving to a predetermined position. This is a device that achieves both a function of making the prize notification stand out by a rapid change in appearance and a function of reducing the chance that the prize notification is overlooked by increasing the notification period.

The descent speed of the character image CP is faster than the descent speed of the numerical image NP, and even after the character image CP returns to the standby position at the timing of ta3, the descent (display) of the numerical image NP continues for a while. (See timing of ta4). This is a device to make the execution period of this prize notification as long as possible while preparing for the next prize occurrence.

Next, the flow of continuous winning notification will be described. When a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U at the timing of ta5, the character image CP displayed in the standby position starts moving from the standby position to the predetermined position. At the timing of ta6, the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, and it becomes impossible to move further upward. The numerical image NP1 is displayed at a specific position above the predetermined position as the character image CP reaches the predetermined position.

The character image CP that has moved to a predetermined position and the numerical image NP1 displayed at a specific position descend the display area ME with the passage of time. Here, regarding the period required for the character image CP to move from the standby position to the predetermined position, that is, the time lag until the numerical image NP1 is displayed, a plurality of game balls are generated by the detection sensor 151 for the upper general winning opening 61U. It is shorter than the minimum interval period (minimum interval period) when continuously detected.

Therefore, even if the subsequent game ball immediately enters the upper general winning opening 61U, the timing does not become the timing before the descent start of the character image CP and the numerical image NP1. That is, at the timing of ta7 when the next winning is generated so as to be the minimum interval period, the character image CP and the numerical image NP1 displayed based on the previous winning are descending.

When the next winning is generated at the timing of ta7, the character image CP rises again toward the upper limit position in the display area ME. During this period, the descent of the numerical image NP1 is continued. When the character image CP reaches the upper limit position at the timing of ta8, the numerical image NP2 is displayed at the predetermined position. Since the numeric image NP1 is already separated from the predetermined position at this timing, the overlap between the numeric image NP1 and the numeric image NP2 is avoided. By raising the character image CP again by the next prize and gaining time, it is possible to completely separate the numerical image NP1 from the predetermined position.

After that, the character image CP and the numerical images NP1 and NP2 descend the display area ME. Since the descent speeds of the numerical images NP1 and NP2 change in the same manner, the numerical image NP2 does not overtake the numerical image NP1.

At the subsequent timing of ta9, the character image CP returns to the standby position, and at the subsequent timing of ta10, the numerical image NP1 reaches the lower limit position and is hidden. Then, at the timing of ta11, the numerical image NP2 also reaches the lower limit position and is hidden, and the winning notification corresponding to the continuous winning ends. Even when the winning notification is continuously performed, it is easy to distinguish that two winnings have occurred by avoiding the overlap of the numerical images NP1 and NP2.

Next, when the variable display unit 91 (design display device 92) is arranged at the lower display position and the second display mode and the third display mode are set as the display modes, the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610 is set. The winning notification processing corresponding to the lower general winning opening, which is executed as a part of the periodic processing, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Processing for winning notification corresponding to the lower general winning opening)
In the winning notification processing corresponding to the lower general winning opening, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not the second display mode is in progress. If an affirmative determination is made in step S801, the process proceeds to step S802. In step S802, it is determined whether or not a prize has been generated in the lower general winning opening 61L based on whether or not a winning command indicating a winning in the lower general winning opening 61L has been received from the main control device 162. To do.

If a negative determination is made in step S802, the process for notifying the winning prize is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S802, the process proceeds to step S803 to determine whether or not the winning notification related to the lower general winning opening 61L is being executed. If a negative determination is made in step S803, the normal winning notification execution process is performed in step S804. If an affirmative determination is made in step S803, the continuous winning notification execution process is performed in step S805. After executing the processes of steps S804 and S805, the count-up display update process is executed in step S806 to end the winning notification processing.

In the present embodiment, similarly to the upper general winning opening 61U, the next winning of the lower general winning opening 61L is received until the previous winning notification of the lower general winning opening 61L is completed. The case where it occurs is defined as "continuous winning", and the case where the next winning occurs after the previous winning notification is completed is distinguished as "normal winning".

As described above, during the opening / closing execution mode, the total number of prize balls acquired during the opening / closing execution mode is displayed in the upper right corner of the display screen 92a. Most of the prize balls are triggered by the winning of the variable winning device 64, but the prize balls based on the winning of the lower general winning opening 61L will also be added to the above total number.

Returning to the description of step S801, if a negative determination is made in step S801, the process proceeds to step S807. In step S807, it is determined whether or not the third display mode is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S807, the main prize notification process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S807, the process proceeds to step S808.

In step S808, it is determined whether or not the lower general winning opening 61L has been won based on whether or not the winning command indicating the winning of the lower general winning opening 61L has been received from the main control device 162. To do.

If a negative determination is made in step S808, the main prize notification process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S808, the process proceeds to step S809 to determine whether or not the winning notification relating to the lower general winning opening 61L is being executed. If a negative determination is made in step S809, the normal winning notification execution processing is performed in step S810, and then the main winning notification processing is terminated. If an affirmative determination is made in step S809, the continuous winning notification execution processing is performed in step S811, and then the main winning notification processing is terminated.

Here, with reference to FIG. 26, a flow of winning notification based on winning a prize in the lower general winning opening 61L will be described. FIG. 26 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of normal winning notification, and FIG. 26 (b) is a schematic diagram showing a flow of continuous winning notification.

As shown in FIG. 26 (a), in the normal winning notification, when the game ball B1 enters the lower general winning opening 61L (when a winning occurs), it stands by directly above the lower general winning opening 61L. The character image CP is moved to the center side of the display screen 92a. As a result, the pigeon (character image CP) can appear to have jumped diagonally upward from the grass (decoration 79b of the first background sheet 79).

When the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, the numerical image NP is displayed at a specific position above the lower general winning opening 61L. In the present embodiment, when a prize is generated in the lower general prize opening 61L, seven game balls (prize balls) are paid out. The number image NP is composed of numbers (characters) of "+7 get" as information clearly indicating this privilege.

The character image CP and the numerical image NP descend the display area ME (see FIG. 21B) with the passage of time. The character image CP is temporarily hidden when it reaches the lower end of the display screen 92a, and immediately after that, it is redisplayed (returned) to the standby position. On the other hand, the numeric image NP is hidden when it reaches the lower end of the display area ME. As a result, the state of waiting for the next prize notification is set.

The moving speed (descending speed) of the character image CP and the numerical image NP is accelerated so as to increase with the passage of time. In other words, the difference is set so that the descent speed is slow at the upper part of the display area ME and the descent speed is high at the lower part.

Next, with reference to FIG. 26B, a flow of winning notification (continuous winning notification) when continuous winning occurs will be described.

In the continuous winning notification, when the game ball B1 enters the lower general winning opening 61L (when a winning occurs), the character image CP waiting directly above the lower general winning opening 61L is moved to a predetermined position above. Move. As a result, the pigeon (character image CP) can be made to appear as if it jumped out of the grass (decoration 79a of the first background sheet 79).

When the character image CP reaches a predetermined position, the numerical image NP1 is displayed at the specific position above the lower general winning opening 61L. In the present embodiment, when a prize is generated in the lower general prize opening 61L, seven game balls (prize balls) are paid out. The number image NP1 is composed of numbers (characters) of "+3 get" as information clearly indicating this privilege.

The character image CP and the numerical image NP1 descend the display area ME (see FIG. 21B) with the passage of time. When the next game ball B2 enters the lower general winning opening 61L (when a winning occurs) while the winning notification continues in this way, the descending character image CP exceeds the predetermined position and the display area ME. Moves to the center side limit position of the display screen 92a in. That is, the flight distance of the pigeon (character image CP) is increased. On the other hand, the number image NP2 is newly additionally displayed at the specific position (above the number image NP1), and the number images NP1 and NP2 are arranged vertically. The character image CP and the numerical images NP1 and NP2 descend the display area ME with the passage of time. After the character image CP reaches the lower limit position, it is hidden → returns to the standby position, and the display is continued. On the other hand, the numerical images NP1 and NP2 are hidden when they reach the lower end of the display area ME. As a result, the state of waiting for the next prize notification is set. The numerical images NP1 and NP2 are the same images.

According to the first embodiment described above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

In a game machine of a type in which a game ball flows down a game area PE in which a large number of game nails 68 are planted, it is one of the pleasures of the game to follow the movement of the game ball with the eyes. In this type of gaming machine, if the staying time of the gaming ball in the gaming area PE is shortened, it becomes difficult to visually follow the movement of the gaming ball, and there is a concern that the above-mentioned enjoyment will be reduced. In view of such circumstances, for example, it is possible to slow down the flow speed of the game ball and lengthen the staying time in the game area PE. However, it is assumed that the slow movement of the game ball causes the appearance of the movement of the game ball to deteriorate. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, the movement of the game ball approaching the entry portion (for example, the upper actuating entry portion 62) and the movement of the game ball moving away from the entry portion are flowed down by the game nail rows 81 to 84. It is possible to increase the staying time in the game area PE while suppressing the decrease in speed. This can contribute to improving the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

For example, the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83 are arranged radially around the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, and are arranged around the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 as a whole. It is a cross arrangement that intersects. When the game ball that has flowed down along the type 2 upper game nail row 82 (the game ball that did not enter the upper actuating entry portion 62) moves to the type 1 lower game nail row 83, the type 2 upper game There are cases where the flow direction along the nail row 82 is maintained and cases where the flow direction is reversed. By significantly changing the movement of the game ball around the upper actuating ball entry portion 62, which is easy for the player to pay attention to, the degree of attention to the behavior of the game ball can be suitably improved.

When the game ball that has passed through the upper actuating entry portion 62 moves in the order of the second type upper game nail row 82 → the first type lower game nail row 83, if the game ball accelerates excessively, the first type It becomes difficult to visually grasp the movement of the game ball along the lower game nail row 83. Although such inconvenience is unlikely to occur in the part where the second type upper game nail row 82 and the first type lower game nail row 83 are folded back, the second type upper game nail row 82 and the first type lower When the side game nail rows 83 are located on the same straight line, there is a concern that the above inconvenience is likely to occur. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, if the type 1 lower game nail row 83 is arranged so as to be offset upward from the extension of the type 2 upper game nail row 82 to the downstream side. The game ball can be decelerated when moving to the first type lower game nail row 83. This makes it easier to visually confirm the movement of the game ball that moves so as to straddle the upper actuating ball entry portion 62.

The amount of offset upward of the first-class lower game nail row 83 is smaller than the diameter dimension (specifically, the radial dimension) of the game ball. This is a preferable configuration for suppressing the movement of the game balls from being greatly disturbed around the upper actuating ball entry portion 62 and reducing the occurrence of collisions between the game balls.

By aligning the inclination angles of the game nail rows 81 to 84, it is possible to prevent an excessive bias in the flow speed of the game ball flowing down along the game nail rows 81 to 84. By suppressing the bias of the flow speed, it is possible to suppress the difference in ease / difficulty in following the movement of the game ball with the eyes. This is a preferable configuration for urging the player to pay attention to the movement of the game ball while suppressing the limitation of the portion to be substantially noticed.

In a game machine of a type in which the symbol display device 92 located behind the transparent game area forming body 60a can be visually recognized, the symbol display device 92 is arranged close to the game board so that the player can see the symbol. The distance to the display device 92 can be reduced. This is a preferable arrangement for improving the visibility of the displayed symbols and the like. When the game ball that has entered the upper general winning opening 61U moves in the order of the guide passage 251 → the collection passage 301 and is returned to the island equipment of the game hall, the existence of the passage is present in the game area forming body 60a and the symbol display device. It can be an obstacle to getting close to 92. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, a part of the back surface of the game area forming body 60a is recessed to form a groove portion 261, and this groove portion 261 is used as a passing region of a game ball in the recovery passage 301. Therefore, restrictions on the arrangement of the symbol display device 92 can be relaxed. As a result, the distance between the symbol display device 92 and the game area forming body 60a can be reduced, which can contribute to the improvement of visibility on the drawing side and the like.

As described above, if the recovery passage 301 is constructed by using the groove portion 261 formed in the game area forming body 60a, the overhang of the collecting passage 301 to the back side of the game area forming body 60a can be suppressed, and the symbol display device 92 can be used. The restrictions on the arrangement can be preferably relaxed. Here, various game parts such as a game nail 68 and a windmill 69 are arranged in the game area PE. If the wall thickness of the game area forming body 60a becomes extremely thin, the hooking allowance for fixing these game parts to the game area forming body 60a may be insufficient. It is feared that this will be a factor that strengthens the restrictions on the arrangement of game parts. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, if the recovery passage 301 is formed by the groove portion 261 and the cover member 305 (main body portion 306), the above effect is exhibited while ensuring a certain wall thickness of the game area forming body 60a. Can be made to.

In order to cover the groove portion 261 of the game area forming body 60a by the cover member 305 on which the groove-shaped main body portion 306 is formed, it is also possible to arrange a part of the cover member 305 so as to be inserted into the groove portion 261. is there. However, in such a configuration, the width of the groove portion 261 is expanded in consideration of the cover member 305, and the portion of the game region forming body 60a where the wall thickness becomes thin is increased. If the thin portion of the game area forming body 60a is bulky, a corresponding demerit arises. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, if the groove width of the cover member 305 (groove-shaped portion of the main body portion 306) is set to be equal to or larger than the groove width of the groove portion 261, the above-mentioned meat is ensured to function as the recovery passage 301. It is possible to make the part where the thickness becomes thin as small as possible. Therefore, it is possible to preferably avoid the occurrence of inconvenience due to the combined use of the groove-shaped cover member 305.

When the recovery passage 301 is formed by the groove 261 formed in the game area forming body 60a, the thin portion of the game area forming body 60a extends linearly. Therefore, as compared with the case where the groove portion 261 is not provided, there is a concern that the strength of the game region forming body 60a is lowered and deformation such as distortion is likely to occur. Here, by fixing the cover member 305 to the game area forming body 60a at a plurality of locations around the groove portion 261, the game area forming body 60a can be reinforced by the cover member 305. Thereby, the lack of strength of the game board can be suitably compensated.

The variable display unit 91 shown in the above embodiment has a configuration in which the display position is switched between the upper display position and the lower display position according to the game situation and the like. This is preferable in order to suppress the monotony of the game and improve the degree of attention to the game. Here, the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) of the variable display unit 91 is configured so that the main moving image display is executed at the central portion thereof under the condition that the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) is arranged at the lower display position. This central portion overlaps with the game area PE (lower area LE). Since the lower region LE is an region in which the game ball flows down, the game ball may be an obstacle when visually observing the display screen 92a. In this regard, in the present embodiment, when the symbol display device 92 moves to the lower display position, the regulated area by the distribution member 73 as the "regulatory means" becomes the center of the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a). It overlaps with the part. As a result, it is possible to prevent the game ball flowing down in front of the game ball from hindering the visual recognition of the moving image display in the central portion. Therefore, the above-mentioned effect of improving the degree of attention can be suitably exerted.

In the central portion described above, the winning notification for notifying the winning of the variable winning device 64 is executed. It is preferable to restrict the game ball from passing in front of this portion in order to prevent the winning notification from being overlooked.

The distribution member 73 as the "regulatory means" functions as a distribution passage for distributing the game ball to the left and right above the variable winning device 64. By using the distribution member 73 as a means for diversifying the movement of the game ball toward the variable winning device 64, it is possible to contribute to improving the degree of attention to the game.

In the symbol display device 92 shown in the above embodiment, when a ball is entered into the upper general winning opening 61U arranged so as to overlap the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) in the front view of the game machine. On the display screen 92a, a winning notification indicating that a winning has occurred in a portion around the upper general winning opening 61U is executed. If the winning notification is executed around the winning ball portion that is the winning destination in this way, even if the notified information is simplified, it will win the prize in the upper general winning opening 61U. It is possible to easily convey what is shown to the player. It should be noted that encouraging simplification of the information to be notified suppresses the area for the winning notification (display area ME) from becoming large on the display screen 92a, and in order to coexist with the variable display area of the symbol. It will be advantageous.

In addition, since the winning notification is performed around the upper general winning opening 61U, the notification is overlooked even when the winning notification is performed while the player is gazing at the upper general winning opening 61U. You can reduce the chances of being affected.

The upper general winning opening 61U is formed so that the entrance portion faces upward, and the image for notifying the winning is displayed at a portion facing the entrance portion of the upper general winning opening 61U. Therefore, even when the above image is displayed while the player is gazing at the upper general winning opening 61U, the chance that the image is overlooked can be suitably reduced.

A predetermined pattern (for example, a chick hidden in the grass) is formed around the upper general winning opening 61U on the display screen 92a when viewed from the front of the game machine, together with the decoration 61aU formed on the front portion of the upper general winning opening 61U. A character image CP (a character image imitating a chick) forming a picture) is displayed, and the character image CP is variably displayed when a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U. In this way, if the decoration 61aU and the character image CP are integrated to form a predetermined pattern, there is some relationship between the displayed character image CP and the upper general winning opening 61U ( It can be preferably suggested that there is a correspondence). Further, it is technically significant that the character image CP for notification of winning is made to stand by on the display screen 92a in advance in order to give the player an opportunity to grasp the above-mentioned relevance.

Since a predetermined pattern is formed by the decoration 61aU and the character image CP, it is possible to suppress the enlargement of the image as compared with the case where the predetermined pattern is formed by the image alone. This is a preferable configuration in order to suppress the expansion of the display area (occupied area) of the image for notification of winning on the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a).

If a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U while the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the upper display position corresponding to the upper general winning opening 61U, the symbol display device 92 indicates that fact. The indicated winning notification is executed. On the other hand, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the lower display position corresponding to the lower general winning opening 61L and a prize is generated in the lower general winning opening 61L, the symbol is displayed. The display device 92 executes a winning notification to that effect. In this way, by configuring the winning notification to be performed according to the position of the symbol display device 92 and the winning destination of the game ball, it is easy to understand and concisely indicate which winning portion the winning was generated. Can be told to the player. When the main entry destination changes depending on the game situation, by applying the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the information of the winning notification provided to the player from becoming excessively complicated or diversified, and the winning notification is a game. It can be suppressed from becoming a factor that confuses people. As described above, switching the winning notification according to the situation has the technical significance that the monotonization of the game can be suppressed and the decrease in the player's motivation to play can be suitably suppressed.

If the symbol display device 92 is configured to move in the side-by-side direction (vertical direction) of the upper general winning opening 61U and the lower general winning opening 61L, it is possible to suppress an increase in the moving distance and notify the winning in the symbol display device 92. It is possible to preferably improve the responsiveness when switching the mode.

As the symbol display device 92 moves from the upper display position to the lower display position, the distance between the upper general winning opening 61U and the symbol display device 92 increases, and the distance between the lower general winning opening 61L and the symbol display device 92 increases. Decrease. Further, as the symbol display device 92 moves from the lower display position to the upper display position, the distance between the upper general winning opening 61U and the symbol display device 92 is reduced, and the lower general winning opening 61L and the symbol display device 92 are combined. It is configured to increase the distance. According to such a configuration, the relationship between the upper general winning opening 61U and the upper display position and the relationship between the lower general winning opening 61L and the lower display position can be suitably suggested to the player.

As described above, in the configuration in which the winning portion to be notified of the winning is switched according to the position of the symbol display device 92, the upper general winning opening 61U or the lower general winning opening 61L is opened while the symbol display device 92 is moving. We cannot deny the possibility of winning a prize. If the winning notification is displayed while the symbol display device 92 is moving, it may be a factor that confuses the player. Therefore, if the winning notification is avoided during the movement, the effect of improving the attention to the game by the winning notification function can be preferably exerted.

By setting the character image CP for notification of winning to stand by in advance on the display screen 92a and variably displaying the character image CP according to the occurrence of winning, the configuration is such that the image is displayed when the winning occurs. It is possible to give the player an opportunity to grasp the relationship between the image (winning information) and the winning part. In this way, it is preferable to make it easy to understand what the information means in order to improve the appearance by simplifying the mode of the prize notification and giving the design.

It is preferable that the character image CP is configured to start displaying before the movement of the symbol display device 92 is completed. As described above, if the standby display of the character image CP is started during the movement of the symbol display device 92, when a prize is generated immediately after the movement, the prize notification corresponding to the prize can be immediately performed. As a result, the responsiveness of the winning notification can be suitably improved. The area where the character image CP related to the upper general winning opening 61U is displayed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92 and the area where the character image CP related to the lower general winning opening 61L is displayed are the symbol display device 92. It deviates in the direction that intersects with the moving direction of. In this way, by shifting the execution area of each winning notification in the direction intersecting the moving direction of the symbol display device 92, the display area corresponding to one of the general winning openings is used when the character image CP is made to stand by in advance. It is possible to avoid the occurrence of an event such that the character image CP corresponding to the other general winning opening is displayed. As a result, even if the character image CP is prepared to be displayed during movement, it can be prevented from becoming a factor that confuses the player.

For example, when a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, an image (for example, a numerical image NP) indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen 92a. As a result, it is possible to inform the player that a prize has been generated and reduce the chance of missing the prize. In the configuration of notifying the winning in this way, when consecutive winnings occur, it becomes difficult to distinguish between the notification of the first winning and the notification of the later winning, which is a factor that misleads the player. There is concern that it will be.

In this respect, in the configuration shown in the present embodiment, the numerical image NP1 displayed based on the previous ball entry moves from the specific position to the lower limit position with the passage of time. That is, even if it is specifically displayed when a prize is generated, it does not stay in place and does not disappear immediately, but the notification is continuously performed while moving to the lower limit position. Here, when a subsequent winning is generated, the numerical image NP2 corresponding to the new winning is displayed at a specific position. Thereby, duplication of the numerical images NP1 and NP2 can be avoided. The numerical image NP2 image also moves from the specific position to the lower limit position in the same manner as the numerical image NP1. By coexisting the numerical images NP1 and NP2 in this way, it is possible to preferably avoid confusion of the winning notification information. Further, since the display period of the numerical image NP can be extended to some extent, the chance that the numerical image NP itself is overlooked can be reduced.

When a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, the images (numerical image NP1 and numerical image NP2) displayed based on the winning are common. In such a configuration, avoiding the overlap of the numerical images NP1 and NP2 as described above has the technical significance that it is possible to suppress the meaning of the displayed image from becoming difficult to understand.

The moving speed when moving the numerical image NP from the specific position to the lower limit position is configured to gradually increase as it approaches the lower limit position. At the moment of display (specific position), the moving speed becomes relatively slow, so that it becomes easy to visually confirm the numerical image NP. This is preferable in order to suppress oversight of the numerical image NP. After that, the moving speed of the numerical image NP increases as it approaches the lower limit position. Thereby, when the numerical image NP is additionally displayed based on the subsequent winning, the overlap between the preceding numerical image NP1 and the succeeding numerical image NP2 can be preferably avoided.

When both the numerical image NP1 and the numerical image NP2 are displayed, the longer the display continues, that is, the closer to the lower limit position, the greater the distance between the numerical image NP1 and the numerical image NP2. Considering that the player's attention tends to be directed to the vicinity of the entrance of the upper general winning opening 61U, the number images NP1 and the numbers are configured so that the distance between the numerical images NP1 and NP2 is the largest on the side near the entrance. When the image NP2 gets into the eyes of the player, it is possible to prevent the inconvenience that both images NP1 and NP2 are confused.

As described above, when the numerical image NP1 and the numerical image NP2 are displayed together, it is assumed that it becomes difficult to understand that two winnings have occurred due to the overlap of both images NP1 and NP2. In particular, when the numerical image NP1 and the numerical image NP2 are shared in order to simplify the display, there is a concern that it will be difficult to distinguish the numerical images NP1 and NP2. Therefore, by restricting the overtaking of the numerical image NP1 by the subsequent numerical image NP2, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In a configuration in which a lottery is executed based on a ball entering the operating ball entry unit 62 and the result is displayed by a combination of symbols on the display screen 92a, the player's attention is likely to be directed to the display of the symbol. Therefore, by providing the display area ME of the numerical image NP and the variable display area of the symbol side by side, it is possible to increase the chance that the numerical image NP is seen when trying to see the variable display of the symbol. In particular, by aligning the scroll display direction of the symbol with the moving direction of the numerical image NP, the display area ME of the numerical image NP and the display area of the symbol can be suitably coexisted on the display screen 92a.

<Second Embodiment> Parallel Display In the above first embodiment, an image (for example, a numerical image NP) for notifying a prize to the general winning opening 61 (for example, the upper general winning opening 61U) is displayed with the passage of time. By moving the image, the newly displayed image for the prize notification and the image for the prize notification displayed in advance are prevented from overlapping. The present embodiment is common to the first embodiment in that the overlapping of the images for the winning notification is avoided when the winning notification is performed in duplicate, but the specific configuration (overlap) related to the winning notification is obtained. The specific configuration for avoiding the above) is different from that of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the configuration related to the winning notification in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 27. FIG. 27 is a schematic view showing the symbol display device 92 and the upper general winning opening 61U.

On the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, a plurality of display areas SP1 to SP5 for displaying images for notification of winning (specifically, character image CP and number image NP) are set so as to surround the upper general winning opening 61U. Has been done. When a prize is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, one of the display areas SP1 to SP5, specifically, the one in which the image for winning notification is not displayed at that timing is selected and selected. An image for notification of winning is displayed in the display area SP. Specifically, the character image CP displayed directly above the upper general winning opening 61U (standby position) is moved to the selected display area SP, and the display of the numerical image NP is started in the display area SP. After the display of the numerical image NP is started, the character image CP displayed in the display area SP is erased, and the character image CP is returned to the standby position.

The display density of the displayed numerical image NP decreases (becomes lighter) with the passage of time, and becomes hidden when a predetermined display period elapses. When the numerical image NP is hidden, the display area SP returns to the selection candidate again.

Here, with reference to FIG. 28, the flow of the winning notification when the winning to the upper general winning opening 61U is continuous will be described. FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flow of winning notification when continuous winning occurs in the upper general winning opening 61U.

For winning notification based on the winning, triggered by the occurrence of the third winning related to the upper general winning opening 61U while the winning notification based on the first winning and the second winning is being executed. Select the area to display the image of. At this point, since the images for winning notification are being displayed for the first display area SP1 and the second display area SP2, one display area SP from the remaining third display area SP3 to fifth display area SP5 is displayed. Be selected. In the example shown in FIG. 28A, the third display area SP3 is selected, and the character image CP and the numerical image NP are displayed in the third display area SP3. With respect to the numerical image NP whose display is started in the third display area SP3, the display is continued until the predetermined display period elapses even after the character image CP is hidden. By moving the character image CP from the standby position to the display position when starting the display of the image for winning notification, it is suggested that the image is triggered by winning the upper general winning opening 61U. doing. By displaying the numerical image NP instead of the character image CP after drawing the player's attention using the character image CP, it is possible to prevent the amount of information displayed in the display area SP from becoming excessive and to be given. It suppresses the difficulty of confirming the benefits.

If a fourth prize is awarded to the upper general prize opening 61U while the image for winning notification is being displayed in the first display area SP1 to the third display area SP3, the prize is used as an opportunity. Select the display target of the image for notification of winning based on the winning. At this point, since the images for winning notification are being displayed for the first display area SP1 to the third display area SP3, the remaining fourth display area SP4 to fifth display area SP5 are candidates for selection. In the example shown in FIG. 28B, the fourth display area SP4 is selected, and the character image CP and the numerical image NP are displayed in the fourth display area SP4. With respect to the numerical image NP whose display is started in the fourth display area SP4, the display is continued until the predetermined display period elapses even after the character image CP is hidden.

In the present embodiment, the predetermined display period is slightly longer than the shortest period when four consecutive prizes are generated, and a maximum of three prizes can be generated during the predetermined display period. It has become. By setting the display area SP to be larger than the maximum weight of the prize notification, it is possible to prevent the prize notification from being performed poorly.

As shown in FIG. 28 (b) → FIG. 28 (c), as a predetermined display period elapses from the first winning, the winning notification image displayed in the first display area SP1 is hidden. The first display area SP1 returns to the next selection candidate. Here, when the fifth winning prize related to the upper general winning opening 61U occurs, the first display area SP1 and the fifth display area SP5 become selection candidates. In the example shown in FIG. 28 (c), the fifth display area SP5 is selected, and the character image CP and the numerical image NP are displayed in the fifth display area SP5. With respect to the numerical image NP whose display is started in the fifth display area SP5, the display is continued until the predetermined display period elapses even after the character image CP is hidden.

As shown in FIG. 28 (c) → FIG. 28 (d), the image for winning prize notification displayed in the third display area SP3 to the fifth display area SP5 gradually becomes thinner with the passage of time, and the third display area SP3 to the fifth display area SP5. The display ends in the order of the image displayed in the display area SP3 → the image displayed in the fourth display area SP4 → the image displayed in the fifth display area SP5.

In displaying the image for notification of winning and notifying the player that a prize has occurred, the display period of the image for notification of winning is lengthened so that the image is easily noticed by the player. However, the longer the display period, the more chances that the next ball will occur during that period. Here, according to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, when the next ball is received in a situation where the image for winning notification is displayed in the first display area SP1 based on the previous ball. Is displayed in a display area other than the first display area SP1 (second display area SP2 to fifth display area SP5) for winning notification. As a result, even if the display period is extended, it is possible to suitably inform the player that continuous winning has occurred. In other words, by shifting the display position, the display period of the image for notification of winning can be extended, and the overlooking of the image can be suppressed.

In particular, even if the display period of the image for notification of winning is set to be longer than the minimum interval period when continuous winning is generated in the upper general winning opening 61U, the images for notification of winning may be mixed with each other. It is possible to prevent it from becoming difficult to understand.

The number of display area SPs is set to be larger than the number obtained by dividing the display period of the winning notification image by the minimum interval period when continuous winning is generated in the general winning opening 61U. According to this configuration, even if the winning of the upper general winning opening 61U is continuously filled with all the display area SPs by the image for notification of winning, at least one display is displayed before the next winning is generated. The area SP will be free. Therefore, the number of display area SPs is not insufficient. As a result, it is possible to preferably prevent the number of display area SPs from being excessively increased in order to deal with an event with a small chance of occurrence.

As described above, the upper general winning opening 61U is arranged so as to overlap the display screen 92a when viewed from the front of the game machine, and the display area SP is provided around the upper general winning opening 61U when viewed from the front of the game machine. Has been done. By arranging the display area SP around the upper general winning opening 61U in this way, it becomes easy to visually confirm both the upper general winning opening 61U and the image for notification of winning. Even when the image for notification of winning is being watched, it is possible to monitor whether or not the ball has entered the upper general winning opening 61U. Therefore, it is possible to suppress that the image display function for the winning notification acts to reduce the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball toward the upper general winning opening 61U.

<Third Embodiment> Serial display As shown in the second embodiment, if a plurality of display area SPs capable of individually displaying images for winning notification are set, the winning notification is duplicated. Even if it is necessary, it is possible to suppress the confusion of these notifications. However, when a function of displaying a winning notification image is added to the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) on which variable display of the symbol is executed, the display area of the winning notification image may be increased. It can be a factor that puts pressure on the variable display area. One of the features of the present embodiment is that, in view of such circumstances, a device is devised to preferably realize the coexistence of the image display area for winning notification and the variable display area of the symbol. .. Hereinafter, the configuration related to the winning notification in the present embodiment will be described with a focus on the differences from the first embodiment. In the following description, the winning notification relating to the upper general winning opening 61U is illustrated, but the same technical idea may be applied to other winning portions such as the lower general winning opening 61L.

In the first embodiment, the display position of the winning notification image (for example, the numerical image NP) displayed based on the winning of the upper general winning opening 61U is shifted with the passage of time. Similar to the second embodiment, the display position of the image for notification of winning in the present embodiment is fixed at the same position from the start of the display to the end of the display. Further, when a prize is continuously generated in the upper general prize opening 61U, the display position of the image for prize notification is the same each time, and the display of the image for prize notification is repeated at a predetermined display position. It has become.

The period during which the image for notification of winning (predetermined display period) is displayed is shorter than the shortest interval period when the game balls are continuously won. Specifically, the minimum interval period is 0.6 sec, while the predetermined display period is 0.5 sec. When the balls are continuously entered into the upper general winning opening 61U so that the interval period is the shortest, the image for winning notification is displayed for 0.5 sec based on the first entry, and then 0.1 sec. After the blank, an image for winning a prize notification based on the next winning ball is displayed for 0.5 sec.

Here, the interval when continuous winning occurs depends on the moving speed of the game ball passing through the detection sensor (detection area). The moving speed depends on the shape of the passage through which the game ball that has won the upper general winning opening 61U moves. Although not shown, the spherical passage in the present embodiment is formed with a bent portion that bends from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction, and the detection sensor is arranged at a position immediately downstream of the bent portion. There is. The interval period is extended by decelerating the game ball at the bent portion before passing through the detection sensor. This prevents the predetermined display period from becoming extremely short.

It is preferable to unify the winning notification images displayed based on the winning of the upper general winning opening 61U in order to promote the understanding of the player about the winning notification image. However, when a similar image is repeatedly displayed by continuous winning, it becomes difficult to distinguish whether it corresponds to one winning or a plurality of winnings (continuous winning). Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, after the display of the previous winning notification image is completed, even if continuous winning occurs, a period of non-display is secured. , The occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suppressed.

Further, if the interval from the hiding of the previous winning notification image to the non-display of the next winning notification image becomes short, there is a concern that it will be difficult to identify (distinguish) the winning notifications. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the display mode is changed so that the displayed image for notification of winning is dimmed (darkened) with the passage of time. As a result, the decrease in discriminating power due to the shortening of the interval between the earlier winning notification and the later winning notification is alleviated.

In the present embodiment, the density of the displayed winning notification image is changed, but it is sufficient if the appearance (display mode) is changed with the passage of time, and a specific configuration is used. Is optional. For example, it is possible to have a configuration in which the size changes with the passage of time, or a configuration in which the color changes with the passage of time.

<Fourth Embodiment> Passage between Double Liquid Crystals In the first embodiment, the distribution member 73, which is a "game component" arranged in the lower region LE, is formed of a transparent synthetic resin material. In the present embodiment, the appearance is the same as that of the distribution member 73, but the game component is a display device (for example, an organic EL) 73X, and the display content of the display device 73X depends on the game situation. The configuration is different from that of the first embodiment in that the configuration can be switched. Hereinafter, the configuration relating to this difference will be described with reference to FIG. 29. FIG. 29 is a schematic view showing a display device 73X and a symbol display device 92 in the game board unit 60X.

In the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, that is, in the state where the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the upper display position, as shown in FIG. 29 (a), the second background sheet 99 provided on the back block 60b The display device 73X is located forward. A pattern imitating the sky is drawn on the second background sheet 99 as a background, and a part of the pattern is covered from the front of the game machine by the display device 73X. As a result, a blank is generated in the background of the second background sheet 99.

In the normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, the display device 73X displays an image imitating the background of the second background sheet 99 by filling in the blanks. That is, the display device 73X is configured to display an image that complements the pattern of the second background sheet 99. The blank is made inconspicuous by supplementing the portion of the background (for example, clouds) that overlaps with the display device 73X with the display device 73X.

On the other hand, in the normal game state corresponding to the high frequency support mode and the open / close execution mode (special game state), that is, in the state where the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the lower display position, as shown in FIG. 29 (b). The display device 73X is located in front of the symbol display device 92 of the variable display unit 91. An image corresponding to the normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode and an image corresponding to the special gaming state are displayed on the symbol display device 92, and a part of these images is covered from the front of the game machine by the display device 73X. ing. As a result, a blank is generated in the image by the symbol display device 92.

In the normal game state or the special game state corresponding to the high frequency support mode, an image similar to the image displayed on the symbol display device 92 is displayed so as to make up for the blank on the display device 73X. Specifically, of the images displayed on the symbol display device 92, the same image as the portion covered by the display device 73X is displayed. That is, the display device 73X is configured to display an image that complements the image of the symbol display device 92. The blank is made inconspicuous by supplementing the portion of the symbol display device 92 that overlaps with the display device 73X with the display device 73X.

The display device 73X arranged on the front side (for example, the game area PE) of the game area forming body 60aX is smaller than the symbol display device 92. By reducing the size of the display device 73X arranged in the game area PE in this way, the pressure on the game area PE can be suppressed. In such a configuration, the main display function depends on the symbol display device 92. Therefore, by configuring the display device 73X on the front side to have the display complementing function, it is possible to preferably suppress the presence of the display device 73X from becoming an obstacle to the symbol display device 92.

The collection passage 301 provided on the back side of the game area forming body 60a passes between the display device 73X and the symbol display device 92. By arranging the recovery passage 301 so as to pass behind the display device 73X arranged on the front side, the recovery passage 301 and the game ball passing through the recovery passage 301 can be hidden by the display device 73X. This can contribute to improving the appearance of the game board unit 60X.

When a pattern is displayed by the symbol display device 92 and the display device 73X that are offset back and forth, it is assumed that the larger the distance between the two display devices 73X and 92, the more conspicuous the gap is at the joint of the symbols. To. That is, it is conspicuous that the pattern is complemented by the display device 73X depending on the position of the player's line of sight. In view of such circumstances, it is preferable to make the distance between the two display devices 73X and 92 as small as possible.

Here, when the recovery passage 301 is arranged on the back side of the game area forming body 60aX, there is a concern that the presence of the recovery passage 301 may be a factor of increasing the separation. In this regard, as shown in the first embodiment, if the back surface of the game area forming body 60aX is recessed to form the groove portion 261 for the collecting passage 301, the collecting passage from the back surface of the game area forming body 60aX is formed. The overhang of 301 can be relaxed to reduce the separation between the two display devices 73X and 92. As a result, the gap can be made inconspicuous.

<Other embodiments>
The content is not limited to the description of each of the above-described embodiments, and may be implemented as follows, for example. By the way, each of the following configurations may be individually applied to each of the above-described embodiments, or a part or all of them may be combined and applied to each of the above-described embodiments. Further, it is also possible to arbitrarily combine all or a part of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effect to be exerted) of each configuration to be combined is guaranteed. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or may be partially or wholly applied in combination.

(1) In each of the above embodiments, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the upper display position (corresponding to the "first position"), the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) and the upper actuating ball entry portion The structure is such that the "first ball entry portion" such as 62 and the upper general winning opening 61U overlaps the front and back. Similarly, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the lower display position (corresponding to the “second position”), the symbol display device 92 (display screen 92a) and the lower actuating ball entry unit 63, lower. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the "second ball-entry portion" such as the side general winning opening 61L and the variable winning device 64 overlaps the front and back (see the schematic diagram of FIG. 30A). That is, when the prize-winning display is performed on the display screen 92a of the symbol display device 92, the technical idea of ensuring the overlap between the ball entry portion and the symbol display device 92, which is the trigger for the display, is displayed on the upper display position and the lower side. It is also possible to apply to both positions.

(2) In each of the above embodiments, the upper general winning opening 61U (corresponding to the "first winning portion") and the lower general winning opening 61L (corresponding to the "second winning portion") are arranged side by side (up and down). Although the symbol display device 92 is slid to move in the direction), the symbol display device 92 can be moved to a position corresponding to the upper general winning opening 61U and a position corresponding to the lower general winning opening 61L. If this is the case, the specific movement mode of the symbol display device 92 is arbitrary.

(3) In each of the above embodiments, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the upper display position, the symbol display device 92 is in front of and behind the upper general winning opening 61U (corresponding to the "first ball entry portion"). The symbol display device 92 is located directly above the lower general winning opening 61L (corresponding to the "second entry portion") when it is placed at the lower display position. It is not something that is done. It suffices if the relationship between the winning correspondence information displayed on the symbol display device 92 and the winning ball portion that triggers the winning correspondence information can be understood.

For example, if the sense of distance between the symbol display device 92 and the ball entry portion is emphasized, the distance between the symbol display device 92 and the upper general winning opening 61U is the symbol display device 92 at the upper display position in the front view of the game machine. Is smaller than the distance between the lower general winning opening 61L and the lower general winning opening 61L, and at the lower display position, the distance between the symbol display device 92 and the lower general winning opening 61L is smaller than the distance between the symbol display device 92 and the upper general winning opening 61U. It may be configured to be small.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 30B and 30C, when the general winning opening 61 is composed of the left general winning opening 61L and the right general winning opening 61R arranged side by side, the symbol display device. After making the 92Y movable in the parallel direction of the left general winning opening 61L and the right general winning opening 61R, the position where the symbol display device 92Y overlaps the left general winning opening 61L (corresponding to the "first position") and the right general It is also possible to arrange the position so as to overlap the winning opening 61R (corresponding to the "second position"). In this case, in the state where the symbol display device 92Y is arranged at the first position, the symbol display device 92Y executes the winning notification related to the left general winning opening 61L, and the symbol display device 92Y is arranged at the second position. In this state, the symbol display device 92 may be configured to execute the winning notification related to the right general winning opening 61R.

Incidentally, it is not always necessary to overlap the left and right general winning openings 61L and 61R and the symbol display device 92 in the front-rear direction. For example, in the first position, the symbol display device 92 is directly above the left general winning opening 61L (where it is vertically arranged). It is also possible to configure the symbol display device 92 to be located directly above the right general winning opening 61R (positions arranged vertically) at the second position.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, the groove portion 261 formed in the game area forming body 60a is covered from the rear by the cover member 305, and the recovery passage 301 is covered by the groove portion 261 and the main body portion 306 (groove-shaped portion) of the cover portion 205. The passage area of the game ball in the above is configured, but the present invention is not limited to this. The cover member 305 is sufficient as long as it can prevent the game ball from spilling from the groove portion 261, and the groove portion 261 of the game area forming body 60a may form a passage region of the game ball in the recovery passage 301.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the seal 78 attached to the upper general winning opening 61U is arranged in front of the collection passage 301 formed by the groove portion 261 and the like, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to provide a decorative portion extending downward in the upper general winning opening 61U and to dispose a collection passage 301 behind the decorative portion.

(6) In each of the above embodiments, the portion in front of the groove portion 261 (the portion having a thin wall thickness) is used as the decorative arrangement region, but the portion in front of the groove portion 261 is a game nail 68 or the like. It is also possible to use an arrangement area for arranging game parts that affect the behavior of the game ball. However, since the wall thickness of the game region forming body 60a is thin in the portion where the groove portion 261 is formed, it is possible to dispose a game part such as a game nail 68 that requires a certain degree of fixing strength. , There may be restrictions on thinning. Therefore, it is technically significant to remove the front of the groove portion 261 as a decorative arrangement region from the component arrangement region that requires fixing strength.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, when the symbol display device 92 is arranged at the lower display position, the game ball is shaken so that the non-passing region of the game ball is located in front of the display screen 92a (particularly the central portion). The component 73 (corresponding to the “roof”) is arranged, but the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 30D, the roof portion (distribution member 400Z) is provided so that the non-passing region of the game ball is located in front of the display screen 92a when it is arranged at the upper display position. It is also possible to place it. Further, the roof portion for the upper display position and the roof portion for the lower display position may be used together.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the upper region UE is partitioned by the first-class upper gaming nail row 81 and the second-class upper gaming nail row 82 so that the outer shape of the upper region UE is substantially diamond-shaped. It is sufficient if the upper region UE is surrounded by the first-class upper game nail row 81 and the second-class upper game nail row 82. For example, by arranging the first-class upper game nail row 81 so as to form a curved shape that is convex upward, and arranging the second-class upper game nail row 82 so as to form a curved shape that is convex downward. It is also possible to partition the upper region UE so that the outer shape is substantially circular (elliptical).

Further, although the outer shape of the lower region LE was partitioned by the first-class lower game nail row 83 and the second-class lower game nail row 84 so as to have a substantially diamond shape, the first-class lower game nail row 83 was placed on the upper side. By arranging the second type lower game nail row 84 so as to form a curved shape that is convex downward, the outer shape of the lower region LE is substantially circular ( It is also possible to partition it so that it has an oval shape.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, the upper actuating entry portion is located at the inclined tip of the type 2 upper game nail row 82 (between the type 2 upper game nail row 82 and the type 1 lower game nail row 83). Although 62 is arranged, another entry portion such as the upper general winning opening 61U may be arranged at this position. Further, although the lower actuating ball entry portion 63 is arranged at the inclined tip of the second type lower game nail row 84, it is also possible to dispose another ball entry portion such as the variable winning device 64 at this position. is there.

(10) In the game nail rows 81 to 84 shown in each of the above embodiments, the distance between the game nails 68 constituting the game nail rows 81 to 84 is set to be smaller than the radial dimension of the game ball. The above interval may be arbitrarily changed as long as the game balls cannot pass between the game nails 68 in a row at least and the game balls can be prevented from staying on the game nails 68. ..

(11) In each of the above embodiments, the game nail rows 81 to 84 are arranged so as to be symmetrical, but these game nail rows 81 to 84 can also be left-right asymmetric. For example, one of the left and right nail rows constituting each game nail row 81 to 84 may be omitted.

(12) In each of the above embodiments, the first-class upper game nail row 81 and the first-class lower game nail row 83 are parallel to each other, and the second-class upper game nail row 82 and the second-class lower game nail row 82. Although 84 is parallel to each other, the angles of the game nail rows 81 to 84 are arbitrary.

Further, although the first type lower game nail row 83 was arranged by shifting upward from the extension of the second type upper game nail row 82, the first type lower side was arranged on the extension of the second type upper game nail row 82. It is also possible to dispose the game nail row 83.

(13) In each of the above embodiments, the upper region UE is the arrangement region of the slope 71 and the lower region LE is the arrangement region of the upper general winning opening 61U, but the upper region UE and the lower region LE are arranged. The game parts to be installed are optional. For example, it is also possible to dispose an upper general winning opening in the upper region UE and a slope in the lower region LE.

(14) In each of the above embodiments, the variable display unit 91 (symbol display device 92) is arranged at the upper display position in the normal game state corresponding to the low frequency support mode, and the normal game state or open / close execution corresponding to the high frequency support mode is executed. In the mode (special game state), the variable display unit 91 is arranged at the lower display position, but in order to switch the position of the variable display unit 91 according to the game state, the variable display unit 91 is arranged at which position. It is optional as to whether to do it. For example, by disposing a through gate 65 in the upper region UE, the launch destination of the game ball is adjusted so that the game ball passes in the order of the upper region UE → the lower region LE even in the high frequency support mode. If necessary, there is a possibility that the game ball will win in the upper actuating entry portion 62 or the upper general winning opening 61U. In such a configuration, the variable display unit 91 may be arranged at the upper display position in the normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode.

(15) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiments, for example, pachinko machines in which the electric accessory opens a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of the special device, or a game in a specific area of the special device. The present invention can also be applied to pachinko machines that generate a right when a ball enters and become a big hit, pachinko machines equipped with other accessories, arrange ball machines, and game machines such as sparrow balls.

In addition, a non-bullet type gaming machine, for example, a plurality of reels having a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction is provided, the reels are started to rotate by inserting medals and operating the start lever, and the stop switch is operated. As a result, the present invention also applies to a slot machine that gives a player a privilege such as paying out a medal when a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on an effective line that can be visually recognized from a display window after the reel is stopped. Can be applied.

Further, the gaming machine body supported to be opened and closed by the outer frame is provided with a storage unit and a take-in device, and the start lever is operated after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are taken in by the take-in device. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which a pachinko machine and a slot machine are fused, which starts the rotation of the reel.

<About the invention group extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the characteristic configurations extracted from each of the above-described embodiments will be described while showing the effects and the like as necessary. In the following, for the sake of easy understanding, the corresponding configurations in each of the above embodiments are appropriately shown in parentheses or the like, but the present invention is not limited to the specific configurations shown in the parentheses or the like.

<Characteristic A group> Nail arrangement of the game board Each of the following feature A groups is described as "For a game machine such as a pachinko machine, a game board in which a game area is formed and a game board based on a launch operation by a player to the game area. Some are equipped with a game ball launching means for launching a game ball. A predetermined number of game balls are provided by the game balls launched from the game ball launching means entering the ball entry portion provided in the game area. Regarding the background technology that "a privilege such as payout is given to the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1)", "in the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, in order to raise the player's attention to the movement of the gaming ball." , There is still room for improvement in its composition. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features A1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area causes a flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area. A game machine configured to change,
A ball entry portion (upper actuating entry section 62) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided on the upper side of the ball entry portion and to be inclined downward from the side toward the ball entry portion, and the game is played in the same direction as the arrangement direction. A pair of left and right first guide nail rows (type 2 upper game nail row 82) that guide the ball, and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below each of the ball entry portions and to be inclined downward from the ball entry portion toward the side, and the direction is the same as the arrangement direction. A game machine characterized in that it is provided with a pair of left and right second guide nail rows (type 1 lower game nail row 83) for guiding a game ball.

As shown in feature A1, in a game machine of a type in which a game ball flows down a game area in which a game nail is arranged, it is one of the pleasures of the game to follow the movement of the game ball with the eyes. In this type of gaming machine, if the staying time of the gaming ball in the gaming area is shortened, it becomes difficult to visually follow the movement of the gaming ball. In view of such circumstances, for example, it is possible to slow down the flow speed of the game ball and lengthen the staying time in the game area. However, it is assumed that the slow movement of the game ball causes the appearance of the movement of the game ball to deteriorate. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to increase the staying time in the game area while suppressing the decrease in the flow speed for the movement of the game ball approaching the entry part and the movement of the game ball moving away from the entry part. it can. This can contribute to improving the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball.

When the game ball that has flowed down along the first guide nail row (the game ball that did not enter the entry portion) moves to the second guide nail row, the flow direction along the first guide nail row is maintained. And, there are cases where the flow direction is reversed. By significantly changing the movement of the game ball around the ball entry portion where the player's attention is easily directed, the degree of attention to the behavior of the game ball can be suitably improved.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is defined as "a game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and the game area is provided by a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area. A game machine configured to change the flow direction of a game ball flowing down the ball, which is provided in the game area and allows a game ball flowing down the game area to enter a ball (upper operating ball). A portion 62) and three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided on the upper side of the entry portion and to be inclined downward from the side toward the entry portion, and the arrangement direction thereof. A first guide nail row (type 2 upper game nail row 82) that guides the game ball in the same direction as above, and a row of nails that are provided below the ball entry portion and are inclined downward from the ball entry portion toward the side. Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided with a second guide nail row (type 1 lower game nail row 83) for guiding the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction. It is also possible to say, "A game machine characterized by being."

Feature A2. The second guide nail row is more than an extension of the first guide nail row to the downstream side of the first guide nail row located on the side opposite to the second guide nail row across the ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to feature A1, which is characterized in that it is arranged above.

When the game ball that has passed through the entry part moves in the order of the first guide nail row → the second guide nail row, if the game ball accelerates excessively, the movement of the game ball along the second guide nail row It becomes difficult to catch with the eyes. When the first guide nail row and the second guide nail row are folded back, such an inconvenience is unlikely to occur, but the first guide nail row and the second guide nail row are located on the same straight line. In some cases, there is concern that the above inconvenience is likely to occur. In this regard, as shown in this feature, if the second guide nail row is arranged so as to be offset upward from the extension of the first guide nail row to the downstream side, when moving to the second guide nail row, The game ball can be decelerated. This makes it easier to visually confirm the movement of the game ball that moves so as to straddle the ball entry portion.

The amount of offset upward of the second guide nail row is preferably smaller than the diameter dimension (radial dimension) of the game ball. This suppresses the movement of the game balls from being greatly disturbed around the ball entry portion, and can reduce the occurrence of collisions between the game balls.

Feature A3. The gaming machine according to feature A1 or feature A2, wherein the tilt angle of the first guide nail row and the tilt angle of the second guide nail row are the same or substantially the same.

By aligning the inclination angles of the first guide nail row and the second guide nail row, it is possible to prevent an excessive bias in the flow speed of the skill ball flowing down along the guide nail rows. By suppressing the bias of the flow speed, it is possible to suppress the difference in ease / difficulty in following the movement of the game ball with the eyes. This is a preferable configuration for urging the player to pay attention to the movement of the game ball while suppressing the limitation of the portion to be substantially noticed.

In order to embody the technical idea shown in this feature, for example, it is preferable that the total length of the first guide nail row and the total length of the second guide nail row are the same or substantially the same.

Feature A4. A first recessed portion (recessed portion 86) through which the game ball can pass is formed in the first guide nail row, and the game ball that has passed through the first recessed portion is the pair of left and right second. The game according to any one of the features A1 to A3, wherein the guide nail row can reach an intermediate position of the second guide nail row located below the first recessed portion. Machine.

According to the feature A4, a part of the game ball moving along the first guide nail row is separated from the guide path by the first guide nail row through the first recess and heads for the second guide nail row. It becomes. When moving in the order of the first guide nail row → around the ball entry part → the second guide nail row, and when the first guide nail row → the first recessed part → the second guide nail row, that is, around the ball entry part It is possible to preferably suppress the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous due to the case where the game ball does not pass through.

Feature A5. Having a plurality of the first guide nail rows,
The first guide nail rows face each other up and down with a gap through which the game ball can pass.
The second guide nail row is characterized in that it faces the end of the first guide nail row located above the second guide nail row with a gap through which the game ball can pass. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A4.

According to the feature A5, the game ball guided by the first guide nail row has a different arrival position at the second guide nail row depending on which guide nail row it passes through. Even when a game ball that does not enter the ball entry portion is guided to the second guide nail row, it is possible to preferably suppress the movement of the game ball from becoming monotonous by diversifying the guide points.

Feature A6. Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided above the first guide nail row and have a downward inclination from the center side of the game area toward the upper end side of each first guide nail row. A pair of left and right third guide nail rows (type 1 upper game nail row 81) for guiding the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction are provided.
The region surrounded by the first guide nail row and the third guide nail row is an upper flow region (upper region UE) through which the game ball can flow toward the ball entry portion.
A third recessed portion (recessed portion 85) through which the game ball can pass is formed in the third guide nail row so that the game ball that has passed through the third recessed portion flows into the upper flow-down region. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A1 to A5, which is characterized by being configured in.

According to the feature A6, the game ball that has reached the third guide nail row is guided to the ball entry portion via the third guide nail row → the first guide nail row. By using the third guide nail row together and moving the game ball toward the entry part by turning it left and right (crossing the game area), the movement distance of the game ball (stay period in the game area) Can be suppressed from becoming shorter.

A third notch through which the game ball can pass is formed in the third guide nail row, and when it enters the third notch, it reaches the first guide nail row and the ball entry portion through the upper flow area. Moving. That is, the flow path of the game ball is greatly influenced by whether or not it enters the third recessed portion in the third guide nail row. By diversifying the movement of the game ball toward the ball entry portion in this way, it is possible to preferably suppress the monotonization of the game while suppressing the movement of the game ball from becoming excessively complicated and making it difficult to predict the destination.

Feature A7. The uppermost stream portion of the upper flow area is provided with an entrance portion of a taxiway (slope 71) capable of guiding a game ball that has reached the uppermost stream portion to the entry portion.
The gaming machine according to feature A6, wherein an inflow port (open portion 72) through which a gaming ball that has entered the third recessed portion can flow in is formed in an intermediate portion of the taxiway.

Of the game balls launched toward the taxiway, the game balls that could not reach the taxiway move along the third guide nail row. When the game ball enters the third recess formed in the third guide nail row, there is a possibility that the game ball reaches the taxiway through the third recess. That is, even if the taxiway cannot be reached from the most upstream portion, it may move to the taxiway in the process of moving along the third guide nail row. With such a configuration, it is possible to suitably improve the degree of attention to the behavior of the game ball.

Feature A8. The third guide nail row is arranged so that the upper end portion of the third guide nail row on the left side and the upper end portion of the third guide nail row on the right side face each other with a gap through which the game ball can pass. Nail,
A guide path (slope 71) capable of guiding the game ball that has entered the gap to the ball entry portion is provided at a position below the gap and above the ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to the feature A6 or the feature A7.

According to the feature A8, there is a high possibility that the ball enters the ball entry portion by launching the game ball aiming at the gap of the third guide nail row. Here, there is a possibility that the game ball that could not reach the gap is guided to the entry portion through the third guide nail row → the first guide nail row. Then, even if the gap cannot be reached, the taxiway can be re-approached by entering the third recessed portion of the third guide nail row. If the configuration is such that the launch of the game ball toward the gap is adopted, the flow path passing through the upper flow area and the flow path surrounding the upper flow area can be used in combination to move the game ball. The effect of increasing the degree of attention can be suitably exhibited.

In embodying the technical ideas shown in the features A7 and A8, "the probability of entering the ball through the taxiway is determined through the first guide nail row and the third guide nail row. It is preferable to have a configuration in which the probability of entering the ball is higher than the probability of entering the ball.

Feature A9. The ball entry section is the first ball entry section.
A second ball entry section (lower actuating ball entry section 63 or variable winning device 64) provided below the first ball entry section.
Three or more of the guide nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below the second guide nail row and to be inclined downward from the portion to be guided by the second guide nail row to the second ball entry portion side. A1 to feature A1 to be characterized by having a pair of left and right fourth guide nail rows (type 2 lower game nail row 84) that guide the game balls in the same direction as the arrangement direction. The gaming machine according to any one of the features A8.

According to the feature A6, the game ball that did not enter the first entry portion is guided to the second entry portion via the second guide nail row and the fourth guide nail row. At this time, the game ball is guided to the side of the game machine by the second guide nail row, and then guided to the center side again by the fourth guide nail row. In this way, by moving the game ball so as to cross the game area, when a plurality of ball entry parts are used together, the player's attention to the movement of the game ball between the ball entry parts is also reduced. It can be suppressed suitably.

Feature A10. The area surrounded by the second guide nail row and the fourth guide nail row is a lower flow area (lower area LE) in which the game ball flows down toward the second entry portion.
The gaming machine according to feature A9, wherein a gaming ball can flow into the lower flow area through a second recessed portion (recessed portion 87) formed in the second guide nail row. ..

According to the feature A10, the movement of the game ball toward the second entry portion is roughly classified into one passing through the second guide nail row → the fourth guide nail row and one passing through the lower flow area. .. With such a configuration, the movement of the game ball can be diversified, and the monotony of the game can be suitably suppressed.

Feature A11. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area causes a flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area. A game machine configured to change,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to incline downward from the side in the game area to the center side of the game area in the left-right direction, and guide the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction. A pair of left and right first guide nail rows (type 2 upper game nail row 82) and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below each of the first guide nail rows and to be inclined downward toward the side from the portion to be guided by the first guide nail row. A pair of left and right second guide nail rows (type 1 lower game nail row 83) that guide the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided above each of the first guide nail rows and have a downward inclination from the center side toward the upper end side of each first guide nail row. A pair of left and right third guide nail rows (type 1 upper game nail row 81) for guiding the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction and the second guide nail row provided below the second guide nail row, respectively. A pair of left and right fourth guides that guide the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction of the three or more guide nails arranged in a row so as to be inclined downward from the portion to be guided by A gaming machine characterized by having a nail row (type 2 lower game nail row 84).

According to the feature A11, the region surrounded by the first guide nail row and the third guide nail row and the region surrounded by the second guide nail row and the fourth guide nail row are arranged vertically. In this way, by arranging the two partitioned areas in the direction in which the game balls move by their own weight (from top to bottom), the movements of the game balls that move so as to straddle the two areas are suitably diverse. Can be changed.

Feature A12. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area causes a flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area. A game machine configured to change,
A first ball entry section (upper actuated ball entry section 62) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball, and a second ball entry section (lower actuating entry section) arranged below the first ball entry section. Ball unit 63 or variable winning device 64),
A pair of left and right game nails are arranged in a row so as to incline downward from the side in the game area to the first ball entry portion, and guide the game balls in the same direction as the arrangement direction. 1st guide nail row (Type 2 upper game nail row 82) and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row below the first guide nail row so as to be inclined downward from the first ball entry portion to the side, and the direction is the same as the arrangement direction. A pair of left and right second guide nail rows (type 1 lower game nail row 83) that guide the game ball to
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided above each of the first guide nail rows and to be inclined downward from the center side of the game area toward the upper end side of each first guide nail row. It is provided with a pair of left and right third guide nail rows (type 1 upper game nail row 81) that guide the game balls in the same direction as the arrangement direction.
Three or more of the guide nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below each of the second guide nail rows and to be inclined downward from the portion to be guided by the second guide nail row to the second entry portion. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a pair of left and right fourth guide nail rows (type 2 lower game nail row 84) that guide the game balls in the same direction as the arrangement direction.

According to the feature A12, the region surrounded by the first guide nail row and the third guide nail row and the region surrounded by the second guide nail row and the fourth guide nail row are arranged vertically. In this way, by arranging the two partitioned areas in the direction in which the game balls move by their own weight (from top to bottom), the movements of the game balls that move so as to straddle the two areas are suitably diverse. Can be changed.

Feature A13. The region surrounded by the first guide nail row and the third guide nail row is an upper flow region (upper region UE) through which the game ball can flow.
The region surrounded by the second guide nail row and the fourth guide nail row is a lower flow region (lower region LE) through which the game ball can flow, which is a feature A11 or a feature A12. The game machine described in.

A route that moves along the outer circumference of the upper flow region and a route that moves in the upper flow region are used together, and a route that moves along the outer circumference of the lower flow region and a route that moves in the lower flow region. By using in combination with, further diversification of the movement of the game ball can be realized.

Feature A14. A pattern display means (design display device 92) provided behind the game board and visible from the front of the game machine through at least one of the upper flow area and the lower flow area of the game board is provided.
Game nails (game nails 68) are scattered in the upper flow area and the lower flow area, and the arrangement density of the game nails is other than the upper flow area and the lower flow area in the game area. The gaming machine according to feature A13, wherein the density is lower than the arrangement density of the gaming nails in the region.

According to the feature A14, in the configuration in which the pattern display means can be visually recognized through at least one of the upper flow area and the lower flow area, the presence of the game nails arranged on the game board is a factor that makes it difficult to visually recognize the pattern. There is concern that it will be. In this respect, in the upper flow area and the lower flow area, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by lowering the arrangement density of the game nails.

In order to diversify the movement of the game ball, it is preferable to increase the number of game nails to some extent. Here, when the upper flow-down region and the lower flow-down region are surrounded by the guide nail rows, most of the game balls are likely to move along the guide nail rows. In other words, the number of game balls that pass through (for example, traverse) the upper flow area and the lower flow area is relatively small. Therefore, even if the number of game nails is reduced in such an area, the influence that the movement of the game ball becomes monotonous can be reduced.

<Characteristic B group> Nail arrangement of the game board Others Each of the following feature B groups is described as "A game board in which a game area is formed in a game machine such as a pachinko machine, and the game area based on a launch operation by a player. Some are equipped with a game ball launching means for launching a game ball to. A predetermined number of games are played by the game ball launched from the game ball launching means entering a ball entry portion provided in the game area. Regarding the background technology that a privilege such as paying out a ball is given to a player (see, for example, Patent Document 1), "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, in order to raise the player's attention to the movement of the gaming ball. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in the configuration. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature B1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area causes a flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area. A game machine configured to change,
An upper ball entry section (upper actuating entry section 62) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
In the game area, a lower ball-entry portion (lower actuating ball-entry portion 63 or variable winning device 64) provided below the upper ball-entry portion at a distance from the upper ball-entry portion.
Upper guide nail rows (type 1 upper game nail row 81 and type 2 upper game nail row 82) arranged so as to surround the upper flow down region (upper region UE) above the upper ball entry portion.
Lower guide nail rows (type 1 lower gaming nail rows 83 and 1) arranged so as to surround the lower flow region (lower region LE) located between the upper ball entry portion and the lower ball entry portion. Equipped with 2 types of lower game nail row 84)
A gaming machine characterized in that the game ball that has entered the upper ball entry portion in the upper flow area can flow into the lower flow area.

According to the feature B1, the area through which the game ball toward the upper ball entry portion passes and the area through which the game ball toward the lower ball entry portion passes are partitioned by a guide nail row. Therefore, it is possible to clarify the target ball entry portion according to the position of the game ball while diversifying the movement of the game ball. Simply diversifying the movement of the game ball makes the movement of the game ball complicated and makes it difficult to understand the target, so that the effect of improving the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball cannot be exerted well. In this respect, if the area in which the game ball flows down is divided into each target ball entry portion, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably avoided.

Further, the upper flow area and the lower flow area are vertically arranged, and the game ball that did not enter the upper ball entry portion in the upper flow area is moved to the lower flow area. As a result, the game ball that did not enter the upper ball entry section in the upper flow area is given an opportunity to enter the lower ball entry section by flowing into the lower flow area. In this way, if the configuration is such that the area is clearly distinguished and the opportunity to enter the ball again is given, it is possible to preferably improve the player's attention to the behavior of the game ball.

Feature B2. A plurality of upper notches (notches 85, 86) through which the game ball can pass are formed in the upper guide nail row.
The inflow of the game ball into the upper flow area through the upper notch and the outflow of the game ball from the upper flow area are allowed.
A plurality of lower notches (notches 87, 88) through which the game ball can pass are formed in the lower guide nail row.
A gaming machine characterized in that the inflow of a game ball into the lower flow area through the lower notch and the outflow of the game ball from the lower flow area are allowed.

As shown in feature B2, an upper notch is provided in the upper guide nail row surrounding the upper flow region, and a lower notch is provided in the lower guide nail row surrounding the lower flow region to allow the inflow / outflow of the game ball. By setting a plurality of locations, it is possible to preferably suppress the monotonous movement of the game ball from the upper flow area to the lower flow area.

Feature B3. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed is provided, and a game nail (game nail 68) provided in the game area causes a flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area. A game machine configured to change,
A first ball entry section (upper actuated ball entry section 62) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball, and a second ball entry section (lower actuating entry section) arranged below the first ball entry section. Ball unit 63 or variable winning device 64),
A first guide in which three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to incline downward from the side in the game area to the first ball entry portion, and guide the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction. Nail row (Type 2 upper game nail row 82) and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row below the first guide nail row so as to be inclined downward from the first ball entry portion to the side, and in the same direction as the arrangement direction. The second guide nail row (type 1 lower game nail row 83) that guides the game ball, and
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided above the first guide nail row and have a downward inclination from the center side of the game area toward the upper end side of the first guide nail row. A third guide nail row (type 1 upper game nail row 81) that guides the game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction is provided.
Three or more of the guide nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below the second guide nail row and to be inclined downward from the portion to be guided by the second guide nail row to the second entry portion. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a fourth guide nail row (type 2 lower game nail row 84) that guides a game ball in the same direction as the arrangement direction.

According to feature B3, the game ball moves in the order of the third guide nail row → the first guide nail row → the second guide nail row → the fourth guide nail row, so that the game ball meanders to the left and right in a zigzag manner. Flow down the area. With such a configuration, it is possible to secure a certain amount of flow speed while gaining a moving distance of the game ball, and it is possible to contribute to an increase in attention to the movement of the game ball.

When moving from the 1st guide nail row to the 2nd guide nail row, an opportunity to enter the 1st entry section is given, and the game ball that has entered the 1st entry section is entered into the 2nd entry section. You will be given the opportunity to enter the ball. As a result, it is possible to prevent the degree of attention to the game ball moving along the path formed by the guide nail row from rapidly decreasing when the ball does not enter the first ball entry portion.

Feature B4. At least one of the first guide nail row, the second guide nail row, and the third guide nail row is formed with a recessed portion (notched portion 85 to 87) through which a game ball can pass. The game ball that has passed through the recessed portion can reach the other guided nail row through the region between the guide nail row having the recessed portion and another guide nail row located below the guide nail row. The gaming machine according to feature B3, which is characterized in that it is used.

According to the feature B4, the movement path of the game ball that has passed through the notch is shortened. In this way, if the flow of the game ball is roughly defined, but a shortcut or the like can be generated by entering the recessed portion, it is possible to contribute to improving the degree of attention to the behavior of the game ball.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is as follows: "A first recessed portion through which a game ball can pass is formed in the first guide nail row, and the game ball that has passed through the first recessed portion is the second guide nail row. A second recessed portion through which the game ball can pass is formed in the second guide nail row, and the game ball that has passed through the second recessed portion is the first It is configured so that it can reach an intermediate position in the 4-lead nail row, and a third recessed portion through which the game ball can pass is formed in the third guide nail row, and the game passes through the third recessed portion. The gaming machine according to feature B3, characterized in that the ball has a configuration capable of reaching an intermediate position in the first guide nail row. "

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature B group described in detail above.

<Characteristic C group> Game ball discharge structure from the transparent game board The following feature C group is based on the game board in which the game area is formed in the game machine such as the pachinko machine and the launch operation by the player. Some are provided with a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area. A game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters a ball-entry portion provided in the game area, thereby determining a predetermined value. Regarding the background technology that a privilege such as paying out a number of gaming balls is given to the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1), "in the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, the gaming balls leaked from the gaming area are collected. There is still room for improvement in the configuration. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature C1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed on the front surface, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A ball entry portion (upper general winning opening 61U) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
A guide passage (guide passage 251) that guides the game ball that has entered the ball entry portion to the back side of the game board, and
A collection passage (collection passage 301) for collecting game balls that have reached the back side of the game board through the guidance passage is provided.
A game machine characterized in that at least a part of a passage area of a game ball in the collection passage is formed by a groove portion (groove portion 261) formed by denting the back surface of the game board.

In a type of game machine in which the pattern display device can be visually recognized through the game board, the distance from the player to the picture display device can be reduced by arranging the picture display device close to the game board. This is a preferable arrangement for improving the visibility of the displayed pattern or the like. When the game ball that has entered the ball entry section moves in the order of guidance passage → collection passage and is returned to the island facilities of the game hall, the existence of the passage hinders the proximity of the game board and the pattern display device. Can be. In this respect, as shown in this feature, a groove is formed by denting a part of the back surface of the game board, and this groove is used as a passage area for the game ball in the recovery passage, thereby relating to the arrangement of the pattern display device. The restrictions can be relaxed. As a result, the distance between the pattern display device and the game board can be reduced, which can contribute to the improvement of visibility of the pattern and the like.

Feature C2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed on the front surface, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A ball entry portion (upper general winning opening 61U) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
A guide passage (guide passage 251) that guides the game ball that has entered the ball entry portion to the back side of the game board, and
It is provided in front of the pattern display device, and includes a collection passage (collection passage 301) for collecting game balls that have reached the back side of the game board through the guidance passage.
At least a part of the collection passage overlaps the pattern display device from the front of the game machine.
A game machine characterized in that at least a part of a passage area of a game ball in the collection passage is formed by a groove portion (groove portion 261) formed by denting the back surface of the game board.

In a type of game machine in which the pattern display device can be visually recognized through the game board, the distance from the player to the picture display device can be reduced by arranging the picture display device close to the game board. This is a preferable arrangement for improving the visibility of the displayed pattern or the like. When the game ball that has entered the ball entry section moves in the order of guidance passage → collection passage and is returned to the island facilities of the game hall, the existence of the passage hinders the proximity of the game board and the pattern display device. Can be. In this respect, as shown in this feature, a groove is formed by denting a part of the back surface of the game board, and this groove is used as a passage area for the game ball in the recovery passage, thereby relating to the arrangement of the pattern display device. The restrictions can be relaxed. As a result, the distance between the pattern display device and the game board can be reduced, which can contribute to the improvement of visibility of the pattern and the like.

Feature C3. A panel member (glass panel 23) that covers the game area from the front of the game machine is provided, and the game area is visible through the panel member.
The game board has a plate-shaped main body portion facing the panel member, and the groove portion is provided in the main body portion.
In the main body portion, the feature C1 or the feature C2 is characterized in that the thickness of the portion where the groove portion is formed is formed to be thinner than the thickness of the portion where the groove portion is not formed. The game machine described.

As shown in the feature C3, if the thickness of the game board (main body portion) is reduced to form the groove portion, the technical idea shown in the feature C1 and the feature C2 can be suitably realized.

Feature C4. The gaming machine according to any one of the features C1 to C3, characterized in that the cover portion (cover member 305) for covering the rearwardly open portion in the groove portion is provided.

As shown in the feature C4, by covering the open portion of the groove portion with the covering portion, it is possible to prevent the game ball flowing into the collection passage from colliding with the pattern display device such as spilling.

Feature C5. The cover portion has a groove shape that is open to the front of the game machine, and the recovery passage is formed by combining the open portion of the cover portion and the open portion of the groove portion so as to face each other. The gaming machine according to feature C4, characterized in that it is present.

As shown in the feature C1 and the like, if the recovery passage is constructed by using the groove formed in the game board, the overhang of the recovery passage to the back side of the game board is suppressed, and the restriction on the arrangement of the pattern display device is suitable. Can be relaxed. Here, various game parts such as game nails and wind turbines are arranged in the game area. If the wall thickness of the game board becomes extremely thin, the hooking allowance for fixing these game parts to the game board may be insufficient. It is feared that this will be a factor that strengthens the restrictions on the arrangement of game parts. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the recovery passage is formed by the covering portion and the groove portion, the effect shown in the feature C1 or the like can be exhibited while ensuring a certain wall thickness of the game board.

Feature C6. The gaming machine according to feature C5, wherein the covering portion is formed so that the groove width of the open portion is the same as the groove width of the groove portion or larger than the groove width of the groove portion.

In order to cover the groove portion of the game board with the groove-shaped covering portion, it is also possible to insert a part of the covering portion into the groove portion. However, in such a configuration, the width of the groove portion is expanded in consideration of the covering portion, and the portion where the wall thickness becomes thin on the game board increases. As shown in the feature C5, the fact that the thin portion of the game board is bulky causes a corresponding demerit. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the groove width of the covering portion is set to be equal to or larger than the groove width of the groove portion, it is possible to minimize the portion where the wall thickness becomes thin while ensuring the function as a recovery passage. Therefore, it is possible to preferably avoid the occurrence of inconvenience due to the combined use of the groove-shaped covering portion.

Feature C7. The gaming machine according to feature C5 or feature C6, wherein the depth dimension of the groove portion is larger than the depth dimension of the groove-shaped portion in the covering portion.

According to the feature C7, the recovery passage can be formed mainly by the groove portion among the groove portion and the covering portion. This is preferable in reducing the overhang of the recovery passage toward the back side of the game board.

Feature C8. The gaming machine according to any one of features C5 to C7, wherein the covering portion is fixed to the game board at a plurality of locations around the groove portion.

When the recovery passage is formed by the groove formed in the game board, the thin portion of the game board extends linearly. Therefore, there is a concern that the strength of the game board is lowered and deformation such as distortion is likely to occur as compared with the case where there is no groove. Here, by fixing the cover portion to the game board at a plurality of locations around the groove portion, the game board (around the groove portion) can be reinforced by the cover portion. Thereby, the lack of strength of the game board can be suitably compensated.

Feature C9. The ball entry portion is arranged at a position overlapping the pattern display device when viewed from the front of the game machine.
The groove extends to a position where overlap with the pattern display device is avoided.
The game machine according to any one of the feature C1 to the feature C8, wherein the collection passage is bent rearward of the game machine at a portion where the overlap with the pattern display device is avoided.

The game ball that has entered the ball entry section is guided to a position where it is avoided from overlapping with the pattern display device by flowing down along the groove, and then the pattern display device is guided backward by wrapping around from below or from the side. Will be done. With such a configuration, the total length of the portion of the recovery passage formed by the groove can be shortened as much as possible.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is as follows: "The ball entry section is the first ball entry section, the recovery passage is the first recovery passage, and the ball entry section is provided below the first ball entry section and flows down the game area. It is provided with a second ball entry section (lower actuating ball entry section 63) into which the game ball can be entered, and a second collection passage (guide passage 252) for collecting the game ball that has entered the second ball entry section. The second recovery passage extends rearward so as to pass below the pattern display device, and the first recovery passage joins the second recovery passage. C1 To the gaming machine according to any one of the features C8. "

Feature C10. The portion of the game board located on the front side of the portion where the groove is formed is an arrangement area in which game parts other than the game nail (game nail 68) are arranged. The gaming machine according to any one of the features C9.

According to the feature C10, the groove forming the passage can be hidden behind the game component. As a result, the groove portion and the game ball passing through the groove portion can be made inconspicuous.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "providing a game component arranged on the front side of the game board, and the game component is formed so that the back of the game component is invisible or difficult to see. The gaming machine according to any one of features C1 to C7, wherein the recovery passage is configured such that at least a part of the recovery path by the recovery passage passes behind the game component. It is also possible to say.

Feature C11. The picture display device is a first picture display device, and the game component is a second picture display device having a second display screen.
When at least a part of the first picture display device is located behind the second picture display device and the groove is located between the first picture display device and the second picture display device, the first picture display device is described. 1. The feature C10 according to feature C10, which comprises means for displaying a portion of the pattern displayed on the pattern display device covered by the second pattern display device on the second pattern display device. Game machine.

According to the feature C11, by using the two picture display devices together, it is possible to make it appear as if nothing exists between the two picture display devices. This can contribute to improving the appearance of the game machine.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to B to the feature C group described in detail above.

<Characteristic D group> Double liquid crystal Each of the following feature D groups is described as "For a game machine such as a pachinko machine, a game board in which a game area is formed and a game ball to the game area based on a launch operation by the player. Some are equipped with a game ball launching means for firing. By entering the game ball launched from the game ball launching means into a ball entry portion provided in the game area, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out, etc. Regarding the background technology that the above-mentioned privilege is given to the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1), "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, the monotonization of the game is suppressed and the player's motivation to play is suppressed. Above, there is still room for improvement in its configuration. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature D1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A first pattern display device (design display device 92) provided on the back side of the game board and variably displaying a pattern, and
A second pattern display device (display device 73X) provided in front of the first pattern display device and capable of variably displaying a pattern, and
A first display control means (a function of performing display control of the symbol display device 92 by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) for controlling the display of the first symbol display device, and
A second display control means (a function of performing display control of the display device 73X by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) for controlling the display of the second pattern display device, and
At least one of the first pattern display device and the second pattern display device is placed at a first position in which the overlap of the first pattern display device and the second pattern display device is avoided in front view of the game machine, and the first position thereof. It is provided with a moving means (elevating device 96) for moving the picture display device and the second picture display device to the second position where they overlap.
When the first picture display device and the second picture display device are arranged at the second position and the second picture display device overlaps the first picture display device from the front of the game machine, the first picture display device is used. 2. A game machine characterized in that the pattern display device is provided with a special display means for displaying a display that complements the pattern displayed on the first pattern display device.

According to the feature D1, the effect mode when performing the display effect can be suitably diversified by configuring the positional relationship between the two pattern display devices to change. Here, in a situation where the second pattern display device overlaps a part of the first pattern display device, the pattern (hidden part) displayed on the first pattern display device is complemented by the second pattern display device. The Rukoto. As a result, it is possible to suitably suppress the deterioration of the appearance of the display effect due to the change in the positional relationship.

Feature D2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A first pattern display device (design display device 92) provided on the back side of the game board and variably displaying a pattern, and
A second pattern display device (display device 73X) provided on the front side of the game board and capable of variably displaying a pattern, and
A first display control means (a function of performing display control of the symbol display device 92 by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) for controlling the display of the first symbol display device, and
A second display control means (a function of performing display control of the display device 73X by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) for controlling the display of the second pattern display device, and
The first pattern display device is the first position in which the overlap of the first pattern display device and the second pattern display device is avoided in the front view of the game machine, and the first pattern display device and the second pattern display device are A moving means (elevating device 96) for moving to the overlapping second position is provided.
When the first pattern display device is arranged at the second position and the second pattern display device overlaps the first pattern display device from the front of the game machine, the second pattern display device is used. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a special display means for displaying a display that complements the pattern displayed on the first pattern display device.

According to the feature D2, the effect mode when performing the display effect can be suitably diversified by configuring the positional relationship between the two pattern display devices to change. Here, in a situation where the second pattern display device overlaps a part of the first pattern display device, the pattern (hidden part) displayed on the first pattern display device is complemented by the second pattern display device. The Rukoto. As a result, it is possible to suitably suppress the deterioration of the appearance of the display effect due to the change in the positional relationship.

Feature D3. The special display means is configured to display a portion of the pattern displayed on the first pattern display device covered by the second pattern display device on the second pattern display device. The gaming machine according to feature D1 or feature D2.

According to the feature D3, by displaying the pattern shielded by the second pattern display device by the second pattern display device, it is preferably avoided that a blank is generated in the pattern displayed on the first pattern display device. can do.

Feature D4. The first pattern display device is arranged behind the game board, and an operating area of the first picture display device is provided on the back side of the game board.
The second pattern display device is arranged in front of the game board, and is arranged in front of the game board.
The gaming machine according to any one of features D1 to D3, wherein the second picture display device is smaller than the display screen of the first picture display device.

According to the feature D4, by making the second pattern display device arranged in front of the game board (for example, the game area) smaller than the first pattern display device, the pressure on the game area can be suitably suppressed. In such a configuration, the main display function depends on the first pattern display device. Therefore, by configuring the second pattern display device to have the display complementing function, it is possible to preferably prevent the presence of the second pattern display device from becoming an obstacle to the first pattern display device.

Feature D5. A collection passage (collection passage 301) for collecting game balls from the game area is provided on the back side of the game board.
The gaming machine according to feature D4, wherein the first pattern display device is arranged on the rear side of the collection passage, and the second pattern display device is arranged on the front side of the collection passage.

According to the feature D5, by arranging the collection passage so as to pass behind the second pattern display device arranged on the front side, the collection passage and the game ball passing through the collection passage are displayed on the second pattern display device. Can be hidden by. This can contribute to improving the appearance of the game board.

Feature D6. The recovery passage is characterized in that it is composed of a groove portion (groove portion 261) formed by denting the back surface of the game board and a covering portion (cover member 305) that covers the groove portion from the rear. The game machine described.

When displaying a pattern by the first pattern display device and the second pattern display device that are offset back and forth, it is assumed that the larger the distance between the two pattern display devices, the more conspicuous the gap at the joint of the patterns. Will be done. That is, depending on the position of the player's line of sight, it is conspicuous that the pattern is complemented by the second pattern display device. In view of such circumstances, it is preferable to make the distance between the two pattern display devices as small as possible. Here, when the collection passage is arranged on the back side of the game board, there is a concern that the existence of the collection passage may be a factor to increase the above separation. In this regard, as shown in this feature, if the back surface of the game board is recessed to form a groove for the recovery passage, the overhang of the recovery passage from the back surface of the game board can be alleviated, and the two pattern display devices can be separated from each other. It can be mitigated. As a result, the gap can be made inconspicuous.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to C to the feature D group described in detail above.

<Characteristic E group> Movable liquid crystal display device A roof is placed at the destination. Each of the following feature E groups is "A gaming machine such as a pachinko machine has a gaming board with a gaming area formed and a player launches it. Some are equipped with a game ball launching means for launching a game ball to the game area based on an operation. The game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters a ball entry portion provided in the game area. As a result, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Regarding the background technology, "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, the degree of attention to the game is There is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to improve it. ”This invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature E1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed on the front surface, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A position changing means (elevating device 96) for arranging the pattern display device at the first position and the second position by moving the pattern display device along the back surface of the game board is provided.
The pattern display device is located behind the game area when it is arranged at least in the second position.
A regulating means (distribution member) having a roof portion (standing portion 75) that stands up from the front surface of the game board to the front of the game machine, and forming a regulation region that regulates the flow of the game ball in the lower portion by the roof portion. 73)
The regulating means is a gaming machine characterized in that, when the pattern display device is moved to the second position, the restricted area is arranged at a position that overlaps the display screen of the pattern display device in the front-rear direction.

According to the feature E1, by moving the pattern display device to the first position / the second position, it is possible to change the effect position according to the situation of the game or the like. This is preferable in order to suppress the monotony of the game and improve the degree of attention to the game. Here, the pattern display device overlaps the game area at least at the second position. Since the game area is an area in which the game ball flows down, the game ball may be an obstacle when visually observing the pattern display device. In this respect, in this feature, when the pattern display device moves to the second position, the regulated area by the regulating means overlaps with the pattern display device (display screen). As a result, it is possible to prevent the game ball flowing down in front of the game ball from obstructing the visibility of the pattern display device. Therefore, the above-mentioned effect of improving the degree of attention can be suitably exerted.

Feature E2. A ball entry unit (for example, a variable winning device 64) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area.
A display means (for example, a central portion) that displays information indicating that a ball has entered the ball entry portion has occurred in a predetermined area (for example, a central portion) of the display screen when the pattern display device is arranged at the second position. The MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610 is equipped with a function for executing prize notification processing).
The gaming machine according to feature E1, wherein the regulation means has a configuration in which the regulation area overlaps with the predetermined area in a situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second position. ..

According to the feature E2, when a ball enters the ball entry section in a situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second position, information indicating that fact is displayed in a predetermined area of the display screen. The Rukoto. Since the passage of the game ball is restricted by the regulating means in front of the predetermined area, it is possible to preferably prevent the game ball from getting in the way and overlooking the displayed information.

Feature E3. The restricting means is arranged above the ball entry portion, and has a right-hand path that bypasses the restricted area from the right side and a right-side route that bypasses the restricted area from the left side of the flow path of the game ball that flows down toward the ball-entry portion. The gaming machine according to feature E2, which is characterized in that it is divided into a detour left side route.

According to the feature E3, the regulating means functions as a sorting means (sorting passage) for sorting the game balls above the ball entry portion. By using the regulatory means as a means for diversifying the movement of the game ball toward the ball entry portion, it is possible to contribute to increasing the degree of attention to the game.

<Characteristic F group> Ball entry notification based on entry into the ball entry section that overlaps with the pattern display device Each feature F group below is a game in which a game area is formed in a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine. Some are provided with a board and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball to the game area based on a launch operation by the player. The game ball launched from the game ball launching means is provided in the game area. Regarding the background technology that a player is given a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls by entering the ball entry section (see, for example, Patent Document 1), "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, , There is still room for improvement in the configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features F1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A ball entry portion (for example, upper general winning opening 61U) provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
It is provided with a privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the ball entering the ball.
The ball entry portion is arranged at a position overlapping the display screen of the pattern display device from the front of the game machine.
When a ball enters the ball entry unit, the ball entry information display means (notification / effect control) that displays the ball entry information indicating that the ball has entered the ball entry unit on the display screen. A gaming machine characterized in that the MPU 612 of the device 610 is provided with a function for executing a process for notifying a prize.

According to the feature F1, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, information corresponding to the entry is displayed on the pattern display device located behind the entry portion. With such a configuration, it is possible to easily inform the player that a ball has entered.

Feature F2. The ball entry information display means is characterized in that the ball entry information is displayed at a portion around (for example, above) the ball entry portion on the display screen when the game machine is viewed from the front. The gaming machine described in F1.

According to the feature F2, the ball entry information is displayed around the ball entry portion. Therefore, even when the ball entry information is displayed while the player is gazing at the ball entry portion, the chance of the ball entry information being overlooked can be reduced. Further, it is preferable to bring the display position of the ball entry information close to the ball entry portion in order to make the relationship between the corresponding information and the ball entry portion easy to understand.

Feature F3. The ball entry information display means is characterized in that the ball entry information is displayed at a portion of the display screen facing the entrance portion of the ball entry portion in the front view of the game machine. The gaming machine described in F1.

According to the feature F3, the entry information is displayed at the position facing the entrance portion of the entry portion. Therefore, even when the ball entry information is displayed while the player is gazing at the ball entry portion, the chance of the ball entry information being overlooked can be reduced. Further, it is preferable to bring the display position of the ball entry information close to the ball entry portion in order to make the relationship between the corresponding information and the ball entry portion easy to understand.

For example, when the entrance portion is facing upward, the ball entry information may be displayed at a position directly above the entrance portion.

Feature F4. The ball entry portion is provided with a decoration (decoration 61aU) that can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine.
The ball entry information display means is an image in which a predetermined pattern (for example, a bird pattern hidden in grass) is formed together with the decoration on a portion of the display screen around the ball entry portion when viewed from the front of the game machine. It has an image display means for displaying (for example, a character image imitating a bird) and a variable display means for variably displaying the image when a ball enters the ball entry portion, and the image is variably displayed. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F1 to the feature F3, which is configured to display the entry information by doing so.

As shown in the feature F4, if the decoration and the image are integrated to form a predetermined pattern, there is some relationship (correspondence relationship) between the displayed image and the ball entry portion. It can be preferably suggested that there is. Further, it is technically significant that the image to be displayed is kept on standby on the screen in advance in order to give the player an opportunity to grasp the above-mentioned relevance.

Since a predetermined pattern is formed by the decoration and the image, it is possible to suppress the enlargement of the image as compared with the case where the predetermined pattern is formed by the image alone. This is a preferable configuration in order to suppress the expansion of the image display area (occupied area) in the pattern display device (display screen).

Incidentally, "variably displaying the image" includes not only the case of changing the color and brightness of the image, but also the case of enlarging / reducing the image and moving the image.

Feature F5. Starting ball entry sections (actuated ball entry sections 62, 63) provided in the game area and capable of entering game balls,
Information acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the entry into the starting ball entry unit, and
The acquired information storage means (holding ball storage area 632 provided in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) capable of storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means, and
Judgment means (for example, MPU 602 of the main control device 162 for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined determination information (for example, information related to hitting), etc. Function to execute) and
When the determination result by the determination means becomes the correspondence result corresponding to the predetermined determination information, the gaming state transition means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162) for shifting the gaming state to the special gaming state (for example, open / close execution mode). Function to execute the transition process to the open / close execution mode)
The variable display of a specific pattern was started in the pattern display device prior to the determination made by the determination means or based on the determination made by the determination means, and the result of the determination was dealt with. Displaying the stop result and ending the variable display of the specific pattern is regarded as one game time, and the variable display of the specific pattern of each game time is displayed according to the special information stored in the acquired information storage means. It is provided with a game time control means for controlling the pattern display device so that
The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F1 to the feature F4, wherein the ball entry portion is arranged around the start ball entry portion.

As shown in this feature, by displaying the ball entry information on the target (picture display device) on which the lottery result based on the ball entry to the starting ball entry section is displayed, it is possible to preferably suppress the oversight of the ball entry information. it can. In particular, if the ball entry section is arranged around the start ball entry section, the ball entry information can be notified using the display screen while realizing the positional relationship between the display screen shown in the feature F1 and the ball entry section. It will be possible.

Feature F6. The display screen of the pattern display device is provided with a plurality of variable display areas in which the variable display of the specific pattern is executed by the game turn control means.
The gaming machine according to feature F5, wherein the ball entry portion is located between the fluctuation display areas and the ball entry information is displayed between the fluctuation display areas.

According to the feature F6, if the ball entry portion and the ball entry information (image) display area are provided between the variable display areas, the ball entry information display area and the variable display area of a specific symbol are displayed on the display screen. Coexistence with can be preferably realized.

Feature F7. The description in feature F5 or feature F6, which comprises means for hiding the image when the variable display mode of the specific pattern becomes the reach display mode on the display screen. Game machine.

Features In the type of gaming machine shown in F5 and the like, the result of hitting and the like is often notified via the reach display. Therefore, when the reach display is performed, it is assumed that the player pays attention to the reach display. Under such a situation, by hiding the image for displaying the entry information and avoiding the overlap with the area where the reach display is executed, the part to be noticed by the player can be suitably emphasized. This is a preferable configuration for performing ball entry notification on a pattern display device for variable display of a specific pattern.

Feature F8. As the ball entry portion, it has a first ball entry portion (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second ball entry portion (lower general winning opening 61L).
A position changing means for moving the pattern display device to a first position corresponding to the first ball entry portion and a second position corresponding to the second ball entry portion is provided.
The ball entry information display means
When the ball enters the first ball entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first position, the ball entry information indicating the entry into the first ball entry section is provided. Means to display and
When a ball enters the second entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the second position, the entry information indicating the entry into the second entry section is provided. The gaming machine according to any one of the features F1 to F7, characterized in that it has a means for displaying.

According to the feature F8, the ball entry portion that triggers the display of the ball entry information is switched according to the movement destination of the pattern display device. According to this configuration, for example, in a situation where a ball can be expected to enter the first ball entry section, the entry information based on the entry into the first ball entry section is displayed, and the ball entry information is mainly displayed to the second entry section. Under the situation where the ball can be expected to enter the ball, the ball entry information based on the entry into the second entry section can be displayed. In this way, by switching the ball entry section that triggers the display of ball entry information according to the game situation, it is possible to suppress an excessively large amount of information and display accurate information for each situation. Become. Thereby, the player's understanding of the displayed information can be preferably promoted.

Feature F9. As the ball entry portion, it has a first ball entry portion (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second ball entry portion (lower general winning opening 61L).
The first ball entry section and the second ball entry section are provided side by side in a predetermined direction (for example, in the vertical direction).
By moving the pattern display device in the side-by-side direction of the first ball entry section and the second ball entry section, the pattern display device is moved to the first position corresponding to the first ball entry section and the second entry section. A position changing means for arranging the second position corresponding to the ball portion is provided.
The ball entry information display means
When the ball enters the first ball entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first position, the ball entry information indicating the entry into the first ball entry section is provided. Means to display and
When a ball enters the second entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the second position, the entry information indicating the entry into the second entry section is provided. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F1 to the feature F8, which has a means for displaying.

According to the feature F9, the ball entry portion that triggers the display of the ball entry information is switched according to the movement destination of the pattern display device. According to this configuration, for example, in a situation where a ball can be expected to enter the first ball entry section, the entry information based on the entry into the first ball entry section is displayed, and the ball entry information is mainly displayed to the second entry section. Under the situation where the ball can be expected to enter the ball, the ball entry information based on the entry into the second entry section can be displayed. In this way, by switching the ball entry section that triggers the display of ball entry information according to the game situation, it is possible to suppress an excessively large amount of information and display accurate information for each situation. Become. Thereby, the player's understanding of the displayed information can be preferably promoted.

Feature F10. When a ball enters the second entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first position, entry information indicating entry into the second entry section occurs. When the display of the above is avoided and the ball enters the first ball entry section in the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second position, the ball enters the first ball entry section. The gaming machine according to feature F8 or feature F9, wherein the display of ball entry information indicating a ball is avoided.

Feature In a configuration in which a plurality of ball entry portions are provided as shown in F8 and the like and the entry ball information is displayed for each entry section, a large amount of information can be a factor that confuses the player. Therefore, in the situation where the ball entry information related to the first ball entry section should be displayed, the display of the ball entry information related to the second ball entry section should be avoided, and in the situation where the ball entry information related to the second ball entry section should be displayed. By avoiding the display of the ball entry information related to the first ball entry section, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to E to the feature F group described in detail above.

<Characteristic G group> Movable pattern display device Notification of ball entry based on entry into the corresponding entry section In each of the following feature G groups, "a game area is formed in a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine. Some are provided with a game board and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball to the game area based on a launch operation by the player. A game ball launched from the game ball launching means is provided in the game area. Regarding the background technology that a player is given a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls by entering the ball (see, for example, Patent Document 1), "in the above-mentioned type of gaming machine" Is, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game. ”The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features G1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A pattern display device (design display device 92) provided on the back side of the game board and variably displaying a pattern, and
A first entry section (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second entry section (lower general winning opening 61L) provided in the gaming area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the gaming area,
A privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion, and
By moving the pattern display device, a position changing means (notification) for arranging the pattern display device at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry portion and the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry portion. (Function to execute the process for position control by MPU 612 of the production control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, when a ball enters the first ball entry unit, the first ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. The first ball entry information display means to be displayed (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position, when a ball enters the second ball entry unit, the second ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a second ball entry information display means (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610).

If a ball enters the first ball entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry section, the pattern display device indicates to that effect. The first ball entry information to be shown is displayed. On the other hand, when the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry section and the ball enters the second ball entry section, the pattern display device The second ball entry information indicating that is displayed at. In this way, by configuring the ball entry information to be displayed according to the position of the pattern display device and the ball entry destination of the game ball, it is easy to understand and concise which entry part the ball has entered. Can be told to the player. For example, when the main entry destination changes depending on the game situation, by applying the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to prevent the information provided to the player from becoming excessively complicated or diversified, and enter the ball. It is possible to prevent the information from becoming a factor that confuses the player. As described above, notifying the ball entry information according to the situation has the technical significance that the monotonization of the game can be suppressed and the decrease in the player's motivation to play can be suitably suppressed.

Feature G2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A first entry section (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second entry section (lower general winning opening 61L) provided in the gaming area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the gaming area,
A privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion, and
By moving the pattern display device, a position changing means (notification) for arranging the pattern display device at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry portion and the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry portion. (Function to execute the process for position control by MPU 612 of the production control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, when a ball enters the first ball entry unit, the first ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. The first ball entry information display means to be displayed (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position, when a ball enters the second ball entry unit, the second ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a second ball entry information display means (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610).

If a ball enters the first ball entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry section, the pattern display device indicates to that effect. The first ball entry information to be shown is displayed. On the other hand, when the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry section and the ball enters the second ball entry section, the pattern display device The second ball entry information indicating that is displayed at. In this way, by configuring the ball entry information to be displayed according to the position of the pattern display device and the ball entry destination of the game ball, it is easy to understand and concise which entry part the ball has entered. Can be told to the player. For example, when the main entry destination changes depending on the game situation, by applying the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to prevent the information provided to the player from becoming excessively complicated or diversified, and enter the ball. It is possible to prevent the information from becoming a factor that confuses the player. As described above, notifying the ball entry information according to the situation has the technical significance that the monotonization of the game can be suppressed and the decrease in the player's motivation to play can be suitably suppressed.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "a game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed" and a picture display device (a picture display device) provided on the back side of the game board to variably display a picture. The game board is provided with a pattern display device 92), and the game board is configured so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board. A first ball entry section (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second entry section (lower general winning opening), which are game machines and are provided in the game area and in which game balls flowing down the game area can enter. 61L), a privilege giving means for giving a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181), and the symbol display device by moving the symbol. Position changing means for arranging the display device at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry section and the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry section (for position control by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610). (Function to execute the process of) and the first input indicating that when the ball enters the first ball entry unit in the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position. The first ball entry information display means (a function of executing a winning notification process in the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) for displaying ball information on the symbol display device, and the symbol display device display the second display. The second ball entry information display means for displaying the second ball entry information indicating that when the ball enters the second ball entry portion in the situation where it is arranged at the position on the pattern display device. (A function of executing a winning notification process on the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) and the display of the first ball entry information by the first ball entry information display means according to the position of the pattern display device. , A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a switching means for switching between the display of the second ball entry information by the second ball entry information display means. "

Feature G3. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
It is provided on the back side of the game board and is provided with a pattern display device (design display device 92) for variably displaying a pattern.
The game board is a game machine configured to have transparency so that the picture displayed on the display screen (display screen 92a) of the picture display device can be visually recognized through the game board.
A first entry section (upper general winning opening 61U) and a second entry section (lower general winning opening 61L) provided in the gaming area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the gaming area,
A privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion, and
By moving the pattern display device, a position changing means (notification) for arranging the pattern display device at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry portion and the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry portion. (Function to execute the process for position control by MPU 612 of the production control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, when a ball enters the first ball entry unit, the first ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. The first ball entry information display means to be displayed (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) and
In the situation where the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position, when a ball enters the second ball entry unit, the second ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the pattern display device. It is equipped with a second ball entry information display means (a function of executing a process for winning a prize notification by the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 610) to be displayed.
When the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, the display of the second ball entry information by the second ball entry information display means is avoided, and the pattern display device is moved to the second display position. When arranged, the gaming machine is characterized in that the display of the first ball entry information by the first ball entry information display means is avoided.

If a ball enters the first ball entry section under the condition that the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position corresponding to the first ball entry section, the pattern display device indicates to that effect. The first ball entry information to be shown is displayed. On the other hand, when the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position corresponding to the second ball entry section and the ball enters the second ball entry section, the pattern display device The second ball entry information indicating that is displayed at. In this way, by configuring the ball entry information to be displayed according to the position of the pattern display device and the ball entry destination of the game ball, it is easy to understand and concise which entry part the ball has entered. Can be told to the player. For example, when the main entry destination changes depending on the game situation, by applying the configuration shown in this feature, it is possible to prevent the information provided to the player from becoming excessively complicated or diversified, and enter the ball. It is possible to prevent the information from becoming a factor that confuses the player. As described above, notifying the ball entry information according to the situation has the technical significance that the monotonization of the game can be suppressed and the decrease in the player's motivation to play can be suitably suppressed.

Feature G4. The first ball entry section and the second ball entry section are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction.
The gaming machine according to any one of the feature G1 to the feature G3, wherein the position changing means is configured to move the pattern display device in the predetermined direction.

As shown in the feature G4, if the pattern display device is moved in the parallel direction of the first ball entry section and the second ball entry section, the responsiveness when switching the display mode of the ball entry information in the pattern display device. Can be suitably improved.

Feature G5. By moving the pattern display device from the first display position to the second display position, the distance between the first ball entry unit and the pattern display device increases, and the second ball entry unit and the pattern display device The distance to and from is reduced,
By moving the pattern display device from the second display position to the first display position, the distance between the first ball entry unit and the pattern display device is reduced, and the distance between the first ball entry unit and the pattern display device is reduced. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature G1 to the feature G4, which is configured to increase the distance from the player.

According to the feature G5, the relationship between the first ball entry portion and the first display position and the relationship between the second ball entry portion and the second display position can be suitably suggested to the player.

Feature G6. When the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, the pattern display device and the first ball entry portion are configured to overlap each other in the front-rear direction. The game machine according to any one of G5.

According to the feature G6, when the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, the pattern display device is located behind the first ball entry portion. As a result, it is possible to prevent the relationship between the ball entry portion and the displayed ball entry information from becoming difficult to understand when displaying the ball entry information. Further, if the ball entry section and the pattern display device are overlapped with each other, it is possible to reduce the chance that the ball entry information is overlooked by the player paying attention to the ball entry section.

Feature G7. When the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, the pattern display device and the first ball entry portion overlap each other in the front-rear direction, and the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature G1 to the feature G6, characterized in that the pattern display device and the second ball entry portion are configured to overlap each other in the front-rear direction.

According to the feature G7, the pattern display device is located behind the first ball entry portion by being arranged at the first display position, and the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position. Will be located behind the second ball entry section. As a result, it is possible to prevent the relationship between the ball entry portion and the displayed ball entry information from becoming difficult to understand when displaying the ball entry information. Further, if the ball entry section and the pattern display device are overlapped with each other, it is possible to reduce the chance that the ball entry information is overlooked by the player paying attention to the ball entry section.

Feature G8. When the ball enters the first ball entry section or the second ball entry section in a situation where the pattern display device is moving between the first display position and the second display position. Is a game according to any one of the features G1 to G7, characterized in that the display of the first ball entry information and the second ball entry information based on the ball entry is avoided. Machine.

Features As shown in G1 and the like, in the configuration in which the ball entry part to be displayed of the ball entry information is switched according to the position of the pattern display device, the first ball entry part and the second ball entry part are being moved while the pattern display device is moving. It cannot be denied that the ball may enter the club. If the ball entry information is displayed while the pattern display device is moving, it may be a factor that confuses the player. Therefore, if the configuration is such that the display of the entry information is avoided during the movement, the effect of improving the degree of attention to the game can be suitably exhibited by the function shown in the feature G1 or the like.

Feature G9. When the pattern display device is arranged at the first display position, a pattern corresponding to the first ball entry section is displayed as the first ball entry information, and the ball enters the first ball entry section. The pattern is variably displayed when the above-mentioned pattern occurs.
When the pattern display device is arranged at the second display position, a pattern corresponding to the second ball entry section is displayed as the second ball entry information, and the ball enters the second ball entry section. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature G1 to the feature G8, characterized in that the pattern is variably displayed when the above-mentioned pattern occurs.

As shown in the feature G9, the symbols corresponding to the first ball entry information and the second ball entry information are made to stand by on the display screen in advance, and the symbols are variably displayed according to the occurrence of the ball entry. , It is possible to give the player an opportunity to grasp the relationship between the pattern (ball entry information) and the ball entry portion, as compared with the configuration in which the pattern is displayed when the ball enters. In this way, it is preferable to make it easy to understand what the information means in order to improve the appearance by simplifying the display mode of the entry information and giving the design.

Feature G10. The first ball entry information display means and the second ball entry information display means include means for starting the display of the pattern before the movement of the pattern display device is completed. The game machine described in G9.

If the standby display of the pattern is started during the movement as shown in the feature G10, when the ball enters after the movement, the ball entry information corresponding to the ball entry can be displayed immediately. Thereby, the responsiveness of the display of the entry information can be suitably improved.

Feature G11. The area where the first ball entry information is displayed and the area where the second ball entry information is displayed on the pattern display device are characterized in that they are deviated from each other in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the pattern display device. The game machine according to the feature G10.

Feature As shown in G11, by shifting the display position of the first ball entry information and the display position of the second ball entry information in the direction intersecting the moving direction of the pattern display device, the ball entry information (image) is obtained in advance. It is possible to avoid the occurrence of an event that the first ball entry information is located at a position where the second ball entry information should be displayed when the player is made to stand by. As a result, even if the configuration is such that the display of the entry information is prepared during movement, it can be avoided that it becomes a factor that confuses the player.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature F group to the feature G group described in detail above.

<Characteristic H group> Display mode 1 during continuous ball entry (movement of notification image)
Each of the following feature groups H is described as "a game board in which a game area is formed in a game machine such as a pachinko machine, and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area based on a launch operation by the player. When the game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player. Regarding the background technology of "(for example, see Patent Document 1)", "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game." It was made with the problem that the invention is trying to solve.

Features H1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
An entry portion (for example, an upper general winning opening 61U or a lower general winning opening 61L) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area.
A privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion, and
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
Display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display) that controls the display of the display device so that the ball entry information indicating that the ball enters the ball entry unit is displayed on the display screen. Equipped with a control device 620)
The display control means
A first display means for displaying a first image showing the ball entering at the first position on the display screen when the ball enters the ball entry portion.
A first moving means for moving the drawing position of the first image displayed by the first display means from the first position to the second position on the display screen for a predetermined period of time.
When a ball enters the ball entry portion while the first image is moving from the first position to the second position, the second image showing the ball entry is displayed on the second image. The second display means to display at one position and
A second moving means for moving the drawing position of the second image displayed by the second display means from the first position on the display screen to the second position so as to follow the first image is provided. A game machine characterized by being.

According to the feature H1, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, an image indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen. As a result, it is possible to inform the player that a ball has entered and reduce the chance of missing the ball. In the configuration of notifying the incoming ball in this way, the player misunderstands that it becomes difficult to distinguish between the notification of the earlier incoming ball and the notification of the later incoming ball when the incoming balls occur continuously. It is feared that it will be a factor to give.

In this respect, in the configuration shown in this feature, the first image displayed based on the previous ball entry moves from the first position to the second position with the passage of time. That is, even if it is displayed at the first position when the ball enters, it does not stay there, and it does not disappear immediately, but the notification is continuously performed while moving to the second position. Here, when a subsequent ball entry occurs, the second image corresponding to the new ball entry is displayed at the first position. As a result, duplication of the first image and the second image can be suppressed. The second image also moves from the first position to the second position in the same manner as the first image. By coexisting the first image and the second image in this way, it is possible to preferably avoid confusion of information. Further, since the display period of the image can be extended to some extent, the chance that the image itself is overlooked can be reduced.

The "first image" and "second image" shown in this feature may be the same image or may be individual.

By the way, the configuration shown in this feature is "a game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and a game ball provided on the game board and flowing down the game area can be entered. A special entry unit (for example, upper general winning opening 61U or lower general winning opening 61L) and a privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control) for giving a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion. A device 181), a display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a), and ball entry information indicating that when a ball enters the ball entry portion are displayed on the display screen. The display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display control device 620) for controlling the display of the display device is provided, and the display means is provided when a ball enters the ball entry unit. The first display means for displaying an image showing the incoming ball, the first moving means for moving the drawing position of the image displayed by the first display means from the first position to the second position, and the image are described above. When a ball enters the ball entry portion while moving from the first position to the second position, a second display for displaying an image showing the ball entry at the first position. A gaming machine characterized by comprising means and a second moving means for moving a drawing position of an image displayed by the second display means from the first position to the second position. " It is also possible.

Feature H2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
An entry portion (for example, an upper general winning opening 61U or a lower general winning opening 61L) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area.
A privilege giving means (for example, a payout device 222 or a payout control device 181) that gives a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion, and
It is provided with a display means (symbol display device 92, notification / effect control device 610, display control device 620) that has a display screen and displays information related to the grant of the privilege on the display screen.
The display means
A first display means for displaying a first image showing the ball entering at the first position when the ball enters the ball entering portion.
A first moving means for moving the drawing position of the first image displayed by the first display means from the first position to the second position for a predetermined period of time.
When a ball enters the ball entry portion while the first image is moving from the first position to the second position, the second image showing the ball entry is displayed on the second image. The second display means to display at one position and
A gaming machine including a second moving means for moving a drawing position of a second image displayed by the second display means from the first position to the second position for a predetermined period of time. ..

According to the feature H2, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, an image indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen. As a result, it is possible to inform the player that a ball has entered and reduce the chance of missing the ball. In the configuration of notifying the incoming ball in this way, the player misunderstands that it becomes difficult to distinguish between the notification of the earlier incoming ball and the notification of the later incoming ball when the incoming balls occur continuously. It is feared that it will be a factor to give.

In this respect, in the configuration shown in this feature, the first image displayed based on the previous ball entry moves from the first position to the second position with the passage of time. That is, even if it is displayed at the first position when the ball enters, it does not stay there, and it does not disappear immediately, but the notification is continuously performed while moving to the second position. Here, when a subsequent ball entry occurs, the second image corresponding to the new ball entry is displayed at the first position. As a result, duplication of the first image and the second image can be suppressed. The second image also moves from the first position to the second position in the same manner as the first image. By coexisting the first image and the second image in this way, it is possible to preferably avoid confusion of information. Further, since the display period of the image can be extended to some extent, the chance that the image itself is overlooked can be reduced.

The "first image" and "second image" shown in this feature may be the same image or may be individual. Further, the "predetermined period" in which the "first image" is displayed and the "predetermined period" in which the "second image" is displayed may be the same or different.

Feature H3. The gaming machine according to feature H1 or feature H2, wherein the first image and the second image are the same.

By sharing the images (first image and second image) displayed based on the game balls that have entered the same ball entry section, it is possible to prevent the meaning of the displayed images from becoming difficult to understand. it can.

Feature H4. The first moving means is characterized in that the moving speed when moving the first image from the first position to the second position gradually increases as it approaches the second position. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature H1 to the feature H3.

According to the feature H4, since the moving speed is relatively slow at the moment of display (first position), it becomes easy to visually confirm the first image. This is preferable in order to suppress oversight of the first image. After that, the moving speed of the first image increases as it approaches the second position. As a result, when the second image is displayed at the first position, it is possible to suppress the overlap between the first image and the second image.

Feature H5. A variable display area of the first image and the second image is provided around the ball entry portion, and the second position is configured to be closer to the ball entry portion than the first position. The gaming machine according to the feature H4.

When both the first image and the second image are displayed, the longer the display continues, that is, the closer to the second position, the greater the separation between the first image and the second image. Considering that the player's attention is likely to be directed to the ball entry portion, the first image and the second image are the eyes of the player by setting the configuration in which the distance between the images is the largest on the side closer to the ball entry portion. It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that both images are confused when entering.

Feature H6. The first moving means and the second moving means are configured so that when both the first image and the second image are displayed, the second image cannot overtake the first image. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature H1 to the feature H5, characterized in that the image is made.

As shown in the feature H1 and the like, when the first image and the second image are displayed together, it is assumed that it becomes difficult to understand that two incoming balls have occurred due to the overlap of both images. In particular, if the first image and the second image are shared in order to simplify the display, there is a concern that it will be difficult to distinguish between the first image and the second image. Therefore, as shown in this feature, by restricting the overtaking of the first image by the second image, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "the first image of the second image when both the first image and the second image are displayed in the first moving means and the second moving means. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature H1 to the feature H4, which is configured so as not to catch up with.

Feature H7. The first image means is provided with a ball entry detection means (detection sensor 151) for detecting a game ball that has entered the ball entry portion, and the first display means is based on the fact that the ball entry is detected by the ball entry detection means. The second display means starts displaying the second image based on the detection of the ball entering by the ball entry detecting means.
In the first moving means, when the balls are continuously entered into the ball entry portion, the shortest period from the detection of the previous entry to the detection of the next entry is elapsed. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature H1 to the feature H6, characterized in that the first image is moved away from the first position.

When continuous ball entry occurs, there is a certain period of time from the detection of the previous ball entry to the detection of the next ball entry. By separating the first image from the first position during this period, it is possible to prevent the two images from overlapping at the timing when the second image is displayed at the first position. As a result, even when continuous ball entry occurs, it is possible to prevent each ball entry notification from being confused.

Feature H8. Starting ball entry sections (actuated ball entry sections 62, 63) provided in the game area and capable of entering game balls,
Information acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) for acquiring special information (holding information) based on the entry into the starting ball entry unit, and
An acquisition information storage means (holding ball storage area 632 provided in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) capable of storing the special information acquired by the information acquisition means, and
Judgment means (for example, MPU 602 of the main control device 162 for determining whether or not the special information stored in the acquired information storage means corresponds to predetermined determination information (for example, information related to hitting), etc. Function to execute) and
When the determination result by the determination means becomes the correspondence result corresponding to the predetermined determination information, the gaming state transition means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162) for shifting the gaming state to the special gaming state (for example, open / close execution mode). Function to execute the transition process to the open / close execution mode)
A variable display of a specific pattern is started on the display screen prior to the determination by the determination means or based on the determination by the determination means, and a stop corresponding to the result of the determination is started. Displaying the result and ending the variable display of the specific pattern is regarded as one game time, and the variable display of the specific pattern of each game time is displayed according to the special information stored in the acquired information storage means. It is provided with a game time control means for controlling the display means so as to be performed.
Feature H1 to feature that the display areas of the first image and the second image by the first display means and the second display means are provided side by side in the variable display area of the pattern on the display screen. The gaming machine according to any one of H7.

In a configuration in which a lottery is executed based on the entry of a ball into the starting ball entry portion and the result is displayed by a pattern on the display screen, the player's attention tends to be directed to the variable display of the pattern. Therefore, by providing the display areas of the first image and the second image and the variable display of the pattern side by side, the chances of seeing the first image and the second image when trying to see the variable display of the pattern are increased. Can be done. In particular, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, the display of the first image and the second image is continued for a certain period of time. Therefore, even when the variable display of the pattern is mainly focused on, the fact that the ball has entered can be confirmed by slightly looking at it, and the function of the ball entry notification can be suitably exerted. ..

Feature H9. The game rotation control means is configured to scroll and display the specific pattern in a predetermined direction.
The gaming machine according to feature H8, wherein the first moving means and the second moving means are configured to move the first image and the second image in the predetermined direction.

As shown in this feature, by aligning the scroll display direction of the pattern with the moving direction of the first image and the second image, the display area of the first image and the second image and the display area of the pattern can be displayed on the display screen. It can be preferably coexisted.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature G group to the feature H group described in detail above.

<Feature I group> Display mode 2 at the time of continuous ball entry (moving the waiting image)
Each of the following feature groups I is described as "a game board in which a game area is formed in a game machine such as a pachinko machine, and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area based on a launch operation by the player. When the game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player. Regarding the background technology of "(for example, see Patent Document 1)", "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game." It was made with the problem that the invention is trying to solve.

Feature I1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A ball entry portion (for example, upper general winning opening 61U) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
A privilege granting means (payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that grants a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion.
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
Display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display) that controls the display of the display device so that the ball entry information indicating that the ball enters the ball entry unit is displayed on the display screen. Equipped with a control device 620)
The display control means
A means for displaying a predetermined image at the first position in a situation where the ball has not entered the ball entry portion, and
It has a first moving means for moving a predetermined image displayed at the first position to a second position and then returning to the first position when a ball enters the ball entering portion. A game machine characterized by being.

As described above, in the type of gaming machine in which the privilege is given by entering the ball into the ball entry section, the game can be advantageously advanced by entering the ball entry section. Therefore, if the player misses the entry into the ball entry section, he / she may not be aware that the privilege has been granted. This hinders the improvement of attention to the game. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, the predetermined image displayed (standby) in the first position moves to the second position and again. Return to the first position. In this way, by configuring the predetermined image waiting in advance to move (display the action) when the ball enters, it is possible to suggest or notify the player that the ball has entered. As a result, it is difficult for the player to overlook the occurrence of the ball entering, and it is possible to contribute to the improvement of the degree of attention to the game.

Feature I2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A ball entry portion (for example, upper general winning opening 61U) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
A privilege granting means (payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that grants a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion.
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
Display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display) that controls the display of the display device so that the ball entry information indicating that the ball enters the ball entry unit is displayed on the display screen. Equipped with a control device 620)
The display control means
A means for displaying a predetermined image at the first position in a situation where the ball has not entered the ball entry portion, and
A first moving means for moving a predetermined image displayed at the first position to a second position and then returning to the first position when a ball enters the ball entry portion.
When a new ball enters the ball entry portion while the predetermined image is moving between the first position and the second position, the predetermined image is moved from the second position. A gaming machine characterized by having a second moving means for returning to the first position after moving to a third position far from the first position.

As described above, in the type of gaming machine in which the privilege is given by entering the ball into the ball entry section, the game can be advantageously advanced by entering the ball entry section. Therefore, if the player misses the entry into the ball entry section, he / she may not be aware that the privilege has been granted. This hinders the improvement of attention to the game. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, the predetermined image displayed (standby) in the first position moves to the second position and again. Return to the first position. In this way, by configuring the predetermined image waiting in advance to move (display the action) when the ball enters, it is possible to suggest or notify the player that the ball has entered. As a result, it is difficult for the player to overlook the occurrence of the ball entering, and it is possible to contribute to the improvement of the degree of attention to the game.

Here, if a ball enters the ball entry portion while the predetermined image is moving between the first position and the second position (when continuous ball entry occurs), the destination of the predetermined image is the first. It will be changed to 3 positions. The third position is a position farther than the second position, and the action of the predetermined image can be significantly changed by moving the predetermined image beyond the second position toward the third position. As a result, it is possible to convey in an easy-to-understand manner that continuous ball entry has occurred. This can contribute to increasing the degree of attention to the game.

Feature I3. In the first moving means, the period required to move the predetermined image from the first position to the second position is detected after the ball has entered the ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to feature I1 or feature I2, which is set to be shorter than the minimum period until the image is reached.

According to the feature I3, in the process of moving the predetermined image from the first position to the second position based on the entry into the ball entry portion, the next entry does not occur, and the predetermined image moves to the third position. Does not move. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the sudden movement to the third position and the like, which makes it difficult to distinguish between a single ball and a continuous ball.

Feature I4. In the first moving means, the period required for the predetermined image to move from the first position to the second position is longer than the period required for the predetermined image to move from the second position to the first position. The gaming machine according to any one of feature I1 to feature I3, which is configured to be shortened.

According to the feature I4, it is assumed that the predetermined image is more likely to be noticed by the player when moving from the second position to the first position than when moving from the first position to the second position. Will be done. In such a configuration, as shown in feature I1 and the like, subsequent ball entry (continuous ball entry) is likely to occur while the predetermined image is moving from the second position to the first position. By applying the technical idea shown in the feature I1 or the like to such a configuration, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

Feature I5. In the second moving means, the period required to move the predetermined image from the third position to the first position is detected after the ball has entered the ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to any one of feature I1 to feature I4, which is set to be shorter than the minimum period until the image is reached.

The number of consecutive times the game ball continuously enters the ball entry portion is not necessarily limited to two times. For example, there is a possibility of entering the ball three times, four times, and so on in succession. As shown in this feature, the next ball enters while the action (movement to the third position and movement from the third position to the second position) that is unique to the continuous ball entry occurs. By setting the action display period so that it does not occur, it is possible to prevent the display related to the notification of continuous ball entry from becoming excessively complicated.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature H group to the feature I group described in detail above.

<Characteristic J group> Display mode 3 during continuous ball entry (parallel display)
Each of the following features J group is described as "a game board in which a game area is formed in a game machine such as a pachinko machine, and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area based on a launch operation by the player. When the game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player. Regarding the background technology of "(for example, see Patent Document 1)", "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game." It was made with the problem that the invention is trying to solve.

Features J1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
An entry portion (for example, an upper general winning opening 61U or a lower general winning opening 61L) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area.
A privilege granting means (payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that grants a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion.
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
Display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display) that controls the display of the display device so that the ball entry information indicating that the ball enters the ball entry unit is displayed on the display screen. Equipped with a control device 620)
The display control means
A first display means for displaying a predetermined image over a predetermined period at any one of a plurality of display locations when a ball enters the ball entry portion.
When a ball enters the ball entry portion in a situation where the predetermined image is displayed by the first display means, the predetermined image is not displayed among the plurality of display locations. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a second display means for displaying a predetermined image at a display location of the above for a predetermined period of time.

As described above, in the type of gaming machine in which the privilege is given by entering the ball into the ball entry section, the game can be advantageously advanced by entering the ball entry section. Therefore, if the player misses the entry into the ball entry section, he / she may not be aware that the privilege has been granted. This hinders the improvement of attention to the game. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, a predetermined image indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed.

Here, in displaying a predetermined image to inform the player that the ball has entered, the predetermined image can be easily noticed by the player by lengthening the display period of the predetermined image. However, the longer the display period, the more chances that the next ball will occur during that period. Here, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when the next ball enters in a situation where a predetermined image is displayed based on the previous ball entry, the next ball enters at a different display location. A predetermined image corresponding to is displayed. As a result, it is possible to suitably inform the player that continuous ball entry has occurred even if the display period is extended. In other words, by shifting the display position, the display period of the predetermined image can be extended, and the overlooking of the predetermined image can be suppressed.

Feature J2. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
An entry portion (for example, an upper general winning opening 61U or a lower general winning opening 61L) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area.
A privilege granting means (payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that grants a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion.
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
Display control means (notification / effect control device 610, display) that controls the display of the display device so that the ball entry information indicating that the ball enters the ball entry unit is displayed on the display screen. Equipped with a control device 620)
The display control means
A first display means for displaying a predetermined image at a first position for a predetermined period when a ball enters the ball entry portion.
When a ball enters the ball entry portion in a situation where the predetermined image is displayed at the first position by the first display means, the predetermined image is displayed at a second position different from the first position. A gaming machine characterized in that it is provided with a second display means for displaying at a position for a predetermined period of time.

As described above, in the type of gaming machine in which the privilege is given by entering the ball into the ball entry section, the game can be advantageously advanced by entering the ball entry section. Therefore, if the player misses the entry into the ball entry section, he / she may not be aware that the privilege has been granted. This hinders the improvement of attention to the game. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, a predetermined image indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed.

Here, in displaying a predetermined image to inform the player that the ball has entered, by lengthening the display period of the predetermined image, the predetermined image can be easily noticed by the player. However, the longer the display period, the more chances that the next ball will occur during that period. Here, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when the next ball is entered in the situation where the predetermined image is displayed at the first position based on the previous ball, the first position is set. Is displayed at a different position (second position). As a result, it is possible to suitably inform the player that continuous ball entry has occurred even if the display period is extended. In other words, by shifting the display position, the display period of the predetermined image can be extended, and the overlooking of the predetermined image can be suppressed.

Features J3. In the first display means and the second display means, the period during which the predetermined image is displayed is longer than the minimum period from the occurrence of the entry into the ball entry portion to the detection of the next entry. The gaming machine according to feature J1 or feature J2, which is configured to be long.

As shown in the feature J3, a practically preferable configuration can be realized by applying the technical idea shown in the feature J1 or the like to the configuration in which the display period is set longer than the minimum period.

Features J4. The number of the display points is set to be larger than the number obtained by dividing the predetermined period by the minimum period from the occurrence of the entry to the entry portion to the detection of the next entry. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature J1 to the feature J3.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, even if the ball enters the ball entry portion continuously and all the display points are filled with the predetermined image, the predetermined period elapses from the first ball entry. Since the display portion on which the predetermined image corresponding to the first entry is displayed is vacant, the display portion is not insufficient. As a result, it is possible to preferably prevent the number of display points from being excessively increased in order to deal with an event with a small chance of occurrence.

Feature J5. The ball entry portion is arranged so as to overlap the display screen when viewed from the front of the game machine.
The plurality of display locations on which the predetermined image is displayed are described in any one of the features J1 to J4, which are provided around the ball entry portion when viewed from the front of the game machine. Game machine.

As shown in the feature J5, if the display portion is arranged around the ball entry portion, it becomes easy to visually confirm both the ball entry portion and the predetermined image. Even when gazing at a predetermined image, it is possible to monitor whether or not the ball has entered the ball entry section, so that the image display function reduces the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball toward the ball entry section. It is possible to suppress the action to cause.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature I group to the feature J group described in detail above.

<Characteristic K group> Display mode 4 during continuous ball entry (serial display)
Each of the following feature K groups includes "a game board in which a game area is formed in a game machine such as a pachinko machine, and a game ball launching means for launching a game ball into the game area based on a launch operation by the player. When the game ball launched from the game ball launching means enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as paying out a predetermined number of game balls is given to the player. Regarding the background technology of "(for example, see Patent Document 1)", "In the above-mentioned type of gaming machine, there is still room for improvement in its configuration in order to increase the degree of attention to the game." It was made with the problem that the invention is trying to solve.

Features K1. A game board (game area forming body 60a) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A ball entry portion (for example, upper general winning opening 61U or lower general winning opening 61L) provided on the game board and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area, and
A privilege granting means (payout device 222 and a payout control device 181) that grants a privilege to a player based on the entry into the ball entry portion.
A display device (design display device 92) having a display screen (display screen 92a) and
A display control means for controlling the display of the display device so that when a ball enters the ball entry unit, the ball entry information indicating that effect is displayed at a predetermined location on the display screen for a predetermined period. (Notification / effect control device 610, display control device 620)
The game machine is characterized in that the predetermined period is set to be shorter than the minimum interval period when the ball entry of the game ball is continuously detected by the ball entry detection means.

As described above, in the type of gaming machine in which the privilege is given by entering the ball into the ball entry section, the game can be advantageously advanced by entering the ball entry section. Therefore, if the player misses the entry into the ball entry section, he / she may not be aware that the privilege has been granted. This hinders the improvement of attention to the game. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this feature, when a ball enters the ball entry portion, ball entry information indicating that fact is displayed on the display screen. Thereby, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed.

Here, when the ball enters the ball entry portion continuously, the display of the ball entry information corresponding to the previous ball entry is completed by the occurrence of the next ball entry. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused due to overlapping displays.

Feature K2. The description in feature K1 is characterized in that a period during which the entry information is hidden is provided from the end of the display of the entry information to the display of the next entry information. Game machine.

It is preferable to unify the ball entry information displayed based on the ball entry into the ball entry section in order to encourage the player to understand the meaning of the ball entry information. However, when the same ball entry information is repeatedly displayed by continuous ball entry, it is possible to distinguish whether it corresponds to one ball entry or multiple entry balls (continuous entry). It becomes difficult. Therefore, as shown in this feature, after the display of the previous ball entry information is completed, even if continuous ball entry occurs, the non-display period is secured so as to be described above. The occurrence of inconvenience can be suppressed.

Feature K3. The display control means is characterized by having means for changing the display mode or display position of the ball entry information with the passage of time when the ball entry information is displayed on the display screen. The gaming machine according to the feature K1 or the feature K2.

When the ball entry information is continuously displayed according to the continuous ball entry as shown in the feature K2, the boundary between the ball entry information corresponding to the previous ball entry and the ball entry information corresponding to the subsequent ball entry. Becomes difficult to understand. Therefore, if the display mode and display position of the ball entry information are changed with the passage of time after the start of the display, the gap with the case where the display of the next ball entry information is started can be increased. , It is possible to easily distinguish each entry information.

For example, it is preferable to change the color and size of the ball entry information with the passage of time, or to gradually shift the display position at a predetermined position.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the feature J group to the feature K group described in detail above.

The basic configuration of the gaming machine to which each of the above features can be applied is shown below.

Pachinko game machine: An operating means operated by a player (game ball launching handle 41), a game ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operating means (game ball launching mechanism 110), and the launching thereof. It is provided with a ball passage (guidance rail 100) that guides a game ball to a predetermined game area, and each game part (game nail 68, windmill 69, etc.) arranged in the game area (game area PE), and each of these game parts. A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a gaming ball passes through a predetermined passing portion (general winning opening 61, etc.).

Rotating game machine such as a slot machine: Equipped with a variable display means for displaying the symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then displaying the symbol row in the final stop, and the symbol variation starts due to the operation of the starting operation means. A special game that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the stopping operation means or the predetermined time elapses, and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A game machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

Belt-type game machine using a ball: Equipped with a variable display means for displaying the symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols in a variable manner and then displaying the symbol sequence in the final stop, the symbol variation is started and stopped due to the operation of the starting operation means. A special gaming state (bonus) that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the operation means or the predetermined time elapses, and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. (Game, etc.) is generated, and further, a throwing device provided with a ball saucer and a throwing device for taking in a game ball from the ball saucer and a payout device for paying out the game ball to the ball saucer is provided. A game machine configured so that the operation of the starting operation means becomes effective when the game ball is thrown in.

10 ... Pachinko machine as a game machine, 60 ... Game board unit, 60a ... Game area forming body as "game board", 60b ... Back block, 61U ... Upper general winning opening, 61L ... Lower general winning opening, 62 ... Upper actuating ball entry section, 63 ... Lower actuating ball entry section, 64 ... Variable winning device, 68 ... Game nail, 70 ... Gate, 71 ... Slope, 72 ... Open part, 73 ... Sorting member, 73X ... Display device, 74 ... Mounting base, 75 ... Standing part, 78 ... Seal, 81 ... Type 1 upper game nail row, 82 ... Type 1 lower game nail row, 83 ... Type 2 upper game nail row, 84 ... Type 2 upper game nail row Lower game nail row, 85-88 ... Notch, 91 ... Variable display unit, 92 ... Design display device, 92a ... Display screen, 96 ... Elevating device, 99 ... Second background sheet, 151-156 ... Detection sensor, 181 ... Payout control device, 222 ... Payout device, 162 ... Main control device, 251 ... Guide passage, 261 ... Groove, 301 ... Recovery passage, 305 ... Cover member, 306 ... Main body, 602 ... MPU, 610 ... Notification / production Control device, 612 ... MPU, PE ... game area, UE ... upper area, LE ... lower area.

Claims (4)

A game machine having a game board on which a game area is formed, and configured so that a game ball provided in the game area changes the flow direction of a game ball flowing down the game area.
An entry portion provided in the game area and capable of entering a game ball flowing down the game area,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided on the upper side of the ball entry portion and to be inclined downward from the side toward the ball entry portion, and the game is played in the same direction as the arrangement direction. A pair of left and right first guide nail rows that guide the ball,
Three or more of the game nails are arranged in a row so as to be provided below the ball entry portion and have a downward inclination toward the side from the ball entry portion, and the direction is the same as the arrangement direction. Bei give a pair of left and right second induction nails sequence that induces game balls,
Having a plurality of the first guide nail rows,
The first guide nail rows face each other up and down with a gap through which the game ball can pass.
The second guide nail row faces the end of each first guide nail row located above the second guide nail row with a gap through which the game ball can pass.
The second guide nail row is moved to the downstream side of the uppermost first guide nail row among the plurality of first guide nail rows located on the opposite side of the ball entry portion from the second guide nail row. A gaming machine characterized in that it is arranged so as to be offset upward with respect to a position that is an extension of . The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the amount of the upward offset of the second guide nail row is smaller than the radial dimension of the gaming ball . The inclination angle of the first guide nail row arranged on the left side of the ball entry portion and the inclination angle of the second guide nail row arranged on the right side of the ball entry portion are the same, and the ball entry portion The claim is characterized in that the inclination angle of the first guide nail row arranged on the right side of the ball is the same as the inclination angle of the second guide nail row arranged on the left side of the ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is a pachinko machine.

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