JP6888596B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine.

A pachinko machine, which is a type of game machine, is equipped with a launch operation device on the front surface of the game machine body, and when the launch operation device is operated, the launch device operates and a game ball is launched at the upper part of the game area. (See, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out from the payout device based on the launched game balls entering the opening provided in the game area.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-305079

Here, it may be ascertained the number of game balls paid out from the number and dispensing device for the game ball that is launched into the play field is required.

The present invention has been made in view of the above illustrated situation such as a game machine capable of grasping the number of game balls paid out from the number and dispensing device for the game ball that is launched into the play field It is intended to be provided.

The present invention
Based on the launch operation by the player, the launching means for launching the game ball supplied to the launch position toward the game area, and
An entry portion provided in the game area where a game ball can enter, and a ball entry portion.
A payout means for paying out the game ball based on the ball entering the ball entry portion,
With
When the game ball launched by the launching means does not reach the game area, the game ball is configured to return to the launch position.
A first grasping means for grasping the number of launches corresponding to the number of game balls launched by the launching means and flowing down the game area, and
A second grasping means for grasping the number of game balls to be paid out or paid out by the payout means, and
An output means that calculates the number of shots that can be handled by the first grasping means and the number of payouts that are grasped by the second grasping means, and outputs special information corresponding to the result of the calculation.
A display control means that controls the display means so that specific information that makes the relationship between the number of shots supported and the number of payouts recognizable is displayed based on the special information output by the output means.
With
The display control means includes means capable of restricting updating the display of the specific information to the display of the specific information corresponding to a smaller number than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed, at least for a predetermined period. ,
The display means on which the specific information is displayed is a display means different from the display means for directing.
The output means is provided with an update means for updating predetermined numerical information, and is configured to output the specific information each time the predetermined numerical information becomes special numerical information.
Said updating means said predetermined numerical information after updating the special numerical information, then before updating the special numerical information, are by Uni set shall be subject to a longer period than the firing cycle by said firing means It is characterized by being.

According to the present invention, it is possible to grasp the number of game balls paid out from the number and dispensing device for the game ball that is launched into the play field.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which shows the main configuration of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. It is a perspective view which shows the main configuration of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. (A) is a front view showing the configuration of a game board, and (b) is a vertical cross-sectional view for explaining a variable winning device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content on the display screen of the symbol display apparatus (a), (b). It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a pachinko machine. 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 main process executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the firing control processing executed in MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the firing ball number measurement processing executed in MPU. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the input port provided in MPU. (A) It is a flowchart which shows the winning detection process executed by MPU, and (b) is for explaining the structure of the 1st winning judgment area, the 2nd winning judgment area, the 1st post-calculation area and the 2nd post-calculation area. It is explanatory drawing of. It is a flowchart which shows the prize-winning determination process executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the net increase sphere number calculation processing executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the 1st game state transition process executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd game state transition process executed by MPU. It is a flowchart which shows the total acquisition ball number setting process executed by MPU of a display control device. It is a timing chart which shows the winning state to each prize ball entry part (a-1) to (a-3) in the 2nd Embodiment, and is firing (b-1)-(b-5). It is explanatory drawing of various counters about the number of balls and the number of payout balls, and is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display contents on the display screen of (c-1) to (c-5) symbol display devices. It is a flowchart which shows the net increase sphere number calculation processing executed by MPU in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the total acquisition ball number setting process executed by MPU of a display control apparatus in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the payout output processing executed by MPU in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the net increase sphere number calculation processing executed by MPU in 5th Embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode executed by the MPU in the sixth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd game state transition process executed by MPU in 6th Embodiment.

<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 front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the main configurations of the pachinko machine 10 in an unfolded manner. In FIG. 2, for convenience, the configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in the game area is omitted.

The pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 that forms the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a game machine main body 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11 in the forward direction. The outer frame 11 is formed by connecting wooden plates on all four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island equipment.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame 13, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 arranged behind the inner frame 13. And have. The inner frame 13 of the gaming machine main body 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.

As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side in front view. It is said that. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the inner frame 13, and the left side is the rotation base end side and the right side is the rotation tip side when viewed from the front. It is supposed to be movable.

As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine main body 12 is provided with a locking device 16 at its rotating tip, and has a function of locking the gaming machine main body 12 so that it cannot be opened with respect to the outer frame 11. And also has a function of locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13 so that it cannot be opened. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 provided exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

Next, the configuration of the front side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described.

The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 21 having an outer shape substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. A substantially elliptical window hole 23 is formed in the central portion of the resin base 21. A game board 24 is detachably attached to the resin base 21. The game board 24 is made of plywood, and the game area formed on the front surface of the game board 24 is exposed to the front side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 23 of the resin base 21.

Here, the configuration of the game board 24 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4A is a front view of the game board 24, and FIG. 4B is a vertical cross-sectional view for explaining the variable winning device 32 provided on the game board 24.

The game board 24 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction by being subjected to router processing. Each opening has a general winning opening 31, a variable winning device 32, an upper operating port (first starting ball entry section) 33, a lower operating opening (second starting ball entry section) 34, a through gate 35, a variable display unit 36, The main display unit 43, the accessory display unit 44, and the like are provided, respectively. A plurality of general winning openings 31 are provided, and a plurality of through gates 35 are also provided.

The detection sensors 31a, 31b, 31c, 32e, 33a, 34c have a one-to-one correspondence with each general winning opening 31, variable winning device 32, upper operating port 33, lower operating port 34, and each through gate 35. 35a and 35b are provided. All of these detection sensors 31a to 35b are arranged on the back side of the game board 24, and the detection result is output to the main control device described later. As the detection sensors 31a to 35b, electromagnetic induction type proximity sensors are used, but the sensors used are arbitrary as long as the winning of the game ball can be detected individually.

When the occurrence of a ball entering the general winning opening 31, the variable winning device 32, the upper operating port 33, and the lower operating port 34 is detected, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out. Specifically, regarding the number of prize balls, when a ball enters the upper operating port 33 and a ball enters the lower operating port 34, three prize balls are paid out and a general prize is won. When a ball enters the mouth 31, 10 prize balls are paid out, and when a ball enters the variable winning device 32, 15 prize balls are paid out. However, the number of these prize balls is arbitrary, for example, the number of prize balls related to the lower operating port 34 is larger than the number of prize balls related to the upper operating port 33, and the number of prize balls of both operating ports 33 and 34 is large. It may be different. Further, the number of prize balls related to the variable winning device 32 is not limited to a configuration larger than the number of other prize balls, and for example, the number of prize balls related to the general winning opening 31 may be smaller than the number of prize balls.

In addition, an out port 37 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game board 24, and game balls that do not enter various winning openings or the like are discharged from the game area through the out port 37. Further, on the game board 24, a large number of nails 38 are planted in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball, and various members (accessories) such as a windmill are arranged.

Here, the entry ball means that the game ball passes through a predetermined opening, and is not only discharged from the game area after passing through the opening, but also discharged from the game area after passing through the opening. Aspects that are not included are also included. However, in the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the ball from entering the game ball into the out port 37, the general winning opening 31, the variable winning device 32, the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34, or the through gate 35 The entry of a game ball is also referred to as a prize.

The upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34 are unitized as an operating port device and installed on the game board 24. Both the upper actuating port 33 and the lower actuating port 34 are opened upward. Further, both operating ports 33 and 34 are arranged in the vertical direction so that the upper operating port 33 faces upward. The lower operating port 34 is provided with an electric accessory 34a as a guide piece (support piece) composed of a pair of left and right movable pieces.

The electric accessory 34a is connected to an electric accessory drive unit 34b mounted on the back side of the game board 24, and is driven by the electric accessory drive unit 34b to be in a closed state (non-supported state or non-guided state) and in a closed state (non-supported state or non-guided state). It is placed in either the open state (support state or guide state). When the electric accessory 34a is closed, the game ball cannot win the lower operating port 34, and when the electric accessory 34a is opened, the lower operating port 34 can be won.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and the state in which the winning of the game ball to the lower operating port 34 is likely to occur and the state in which the winning is more difficult to occur than the state in which the winning is not impossible but the above-mentioned winning is likely to occur. The accessory 34a may be switched. Further, the electric accessory 34a may be inadequate, and switching between a state in which winning is likely to occur and a state in which winning is less likely to occur may be performed by displacement of the lower operating port 34 itself.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the variable winning device 32 includes a large winning opening 32a leading to the back side of the game board 24, and also includes an opening / closing door 32b for opening and closing the large winning opening 32a. .. The opening / closing door 32b is connected to a variable winning drive unit 32c integrally provided as a variable winning device 32 (the connection location is not shown), and is driven by the variable winning drive unit 32c to be in a closed state and an open state. It is placed in one of. Specifically, it is normally in a closed state in which the game ball cannot win a prize, and when the transition to the open / close execution mode is won in the internal lottery, the game ball is switched to an open state in which a prize can be won.

Further, the variable winning device 32 is formed with a winning passing portion 32d at a position where the game ball winning the variable winning device 32 always passes through the large winning opening 32a, and further, the winning passing portion 32d of the variable winning device 32. The large winning opening detection sensor 32e is provided so that the detection unit exists at the position. The game balls that have won the variable winning device 32 are individually detected by the large winning opening detection sensor 32e.

In the main display unit 43, the variation display of the pattern is performed by triggering the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is performed. The result of the internal lottery based on this is clearly indicated by the display. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, the winning of the upper operating port 33 and the winning of the lower operating port 34 are not distinguished in the internal lottery, and the winning is based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. The result of the internal lottery is clearly shown on the main display unit 43, which is a common display area. Then, when the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the opening / closing execution mode, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the main display unit 43. After being displayed and the variable display is stopped, the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode.

The main display unit 43 is composed of a segment display unit in which a plurality of segment light emitting units are arranged in a predetermined manner, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, and the like. It may be composed of other types of display devices such as a CRT or a dot matrix display. Further, as the pattern to be variablely displayed on the main display unit 43, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variablely displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of symbols are variablely displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variablely displayed, or a plurality of patterns are displayed. It is conceivable that the seed colors are switched and displayed.

In the accessory display unit 44, the variation display of the pattern is performed by triggering the winning of the through gate 35, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 35 is obtained. Explicitly indicated by the display. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the through gate 35 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric service open state, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the accessory display unit 44 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 34a provided in the lower operating port 34 is in the open state in a predetermined mode.

The variable display unit 36 is provided with a symbol display device 41 for variable display (or variable display or switching display) of a symbol which is a kind of symbol, and a center frame 42 is arranged so as to surround the symbol display device 41. Has been done. The symbol display device 41 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. The symbol display device 41 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, and may be a plasma display device, an organic EL display device, or another display device having a display screen such as a CRT, and may be a dot matrix display. It may be a vessel.

In the symbol display device 41, the variable display of the symbol is started based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. That is, when the main display unit 43 performs the variable display, the symbol display device 41 performs the variable display accordingly.

The display contents of the symbol display device 41 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display screen G of the symbol display device 41.

The design, which is a kind of design, is composed of nine types of main designs with numbers "1" to "9", and sub-designs consisting of shell-shaped patterns. More specifically, nine types of character symbols such as an octopus are assigned numbers "1" to "9" to form a main symbol.

As shown in FIG. 5A, on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41, three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 of an upper row, a middle row, and a lower row are set as a plurality of display areas. Each symbol row Z1 to Z3 is configured by arranging a main symbol and a sub symbol in a predetermined order. Specifically, in the upper symbol row Z1, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in descending order of numbers, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. .. In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending order of numbers, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol.

That is, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol string Z2, nine types of main symbols "1" to "9" are arranged in ascending order of numbers, and then between the main symbol of "9" and the main symbol of "1". The main symbol of "4" is additionally arranged in the above, and one sub symbol is arranged between each of these main symbols. That is, only in the middle symbol row Z2, 10 main symbols are arranged and composed of 20 symbols.

As shown in FIG. 5B, on the display screen G, three symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of nine symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. It has become like. Further, five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a right-down line L4, and a right-up line L5 are set on the display screen G.

When the effect for game rotation is performed on the display screen G based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34, the symbols in the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are scrolled in a predetermined direction with periodicity. The variable display starts at. Then, the variable display is switched to the standby display in the order of the upper symbol row Z1 → the lower symbol row Z3 → the middle symbol row Z2, and finally the predetermined symbols are statically displayed in the respective symbol rows Z1 to Z3 for game use. The production of is finished.

In addition, when the production for the game round is completed, if the game round corresponds to the occurrence of the most advantageous jackpot result described later, a combination of symbols with the same odd number is formed on one of the effective lines. , If it is a game time corresponding to the occurrence of the low probability jackpot result described later, a combination of symbols having the same even number is formed on any of the effective lines.

It should be noted that, based on the winning of any of the operating ports 33 and 34, the variation display is started on the main display unit 43 and the symbol display device 41, a predetermined stop result is displayed, and the variation display is stopped. It corresponds to one game.

Further, the mode of variable display of symbols in the symbol display device 41 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 row, the number of symbols in each symbol row, and the like. Can be changed as appropriate. Further, the pattern to be variablely displayed by the symbol display device 41 is not limited to the above-mentioned symbol, and for example, only numbers may be variablely displayed as the symbol.

As shown in FIG. 4A, a first holding lamp unit 45 corresponding to the main display unit 43 and the symbol display device 41 is provided on the upper left portion on the front surface side of the center frame 42. The maximum number of game balls that have won a prize in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is reserved, and the reserved number is displayed by lighting the first holding lamp unit 45.

A second holding lamp portion 46 corresponding to the accessory display portion 44 is provided in the upper right portion of the center frame 42. The number of times the game ball has passed through the through gate 35 is held up to four times, and the number of holdings is displayed by lighting the second holding lamp unit 46. It should be noted that the functions of the holding lamp units 45 and 46 may be fulfilled by the display in a part of the area of the symbol display device 41.

An inner rail portion 48 and an outer rail portion 49 are attached to the game board 24, and a guide rail is formed by the inner rail portion 48 and the outer rail portion 49, and the game is launched from the game ball launch mechanism 51. The ball is guided to the upper part of the game area. As shown in FIG. 2, the game ball launch mechanism 51 is attached below the window hole 23 in the resin base 21, and is stored in the launch rail 52 extending toward the guide rail and the upper plate 61a described later. It includes a ball feeding device 53 that supplies a game ball onto the launch rail 52, and a solenoid 54 that is an electric actuator that launches the game ball supplied on the launch rail 52 toward the guide rail. By operating the firing handle 55 provided on the front door frame 14, the solenoid 54 is driven and controlled, and the game ball is launched.

The front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front surface side of the inner frame 13. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is formed with a window portion 56 so that almost the entire area of the game area can be visually recognized from the front. The window portion 56 has a substantially elliptical shape, and the window panel 57 is fitted therein. The window panel 57 is formed colorless and transparent by glass, but is not limited to this, and may be formed colorless and transparent by synthetic resin, and the game area can be visually recognized from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the window panel 57. If possible, it may be formed to be colored and transparent.

Light emitting means such as various lamps are provided around the window 56. An indicator lamp portion 58a is provided above the window portion 56 as a part of various lamp portions. Further, a pair of left and right error lamp portions 58b are provided on both the left and right sides of the indicator lamp portion 58a and at the upper corner portions of the front door frame 14. Further, a pair of left and right speaker units 59 for outputting sound effects and the like according to the game state are provided adjacent to the error lamp unit 58b.

Below the window portion 56 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 61 and a lower bulging portion 62 that bulge toward the front side are arranged vertically. An upper plate 61a that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 61, and a lower plate 62a that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 62. The upper plate 61a 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 51 side while arranging them in a row. Further, the lower plate 62a has a function of storing excess game balls in the upper plate 61a.

Next, the configuration on the back side of the gaming machine main body 12 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3, on the back surface of the inner frame 13 (specifically, the game board 24), a main control device 71 that controls the main control of the game, and a voice or lamp display and a display control device (not shown) are controlled. The voice emission control device 72, which controls the sound emission control device 72, is installed.

The substrate box 71a of the main control device 71 may be provided with a trace means for leaving a trace of its opening, or may be provided with a trace structure for leaving a trace of its opening. As the trace means, a plurality of case bodies constituting the substrate box 71a are inseparably bonded, and a bonding portion (caulking portion) that requires destruction of a predetermined portion at the time of separation is formed, and an adhesive layer is adhered at the time of peeling. It is conceivable that a sealing sticker that leaves a trace of being peeled off by remaining on the case is attached so as to straddle the boundary between a plurality of case bodies. Further, as the trace structure, it is conceivable that an adhesive is applied to the boundary between the plurality of case bodies constituting the substrate box 71a.

The back pack unit 15 is installed so as to cover the back side of the inner frame 13 including the main control device 71 and the voice emission control device 72. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 73 formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and a payout mechanism portion 74 and a control device collecting unit 75 are attached to the back pack 73.

The payout mechanism unit 74 includes a tank 76 in which game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall are sequentially replenished, and a payout device 77 for paying out the game balls stored in the tank 76. The game ball paid out from the payout device 77 is discharged to the upper plate 61a or the lower plate 62a through the payout passage provided on the downstream side of the payout device 77. The payout mechanism 74 is equipped with a back pack substrate having, for example, an AC 24 volt main power supply and a power switch for turning the power on and off.

The control device collective unit 75 generates and outputs predetermined electric power required by the payout control device 78 having a function of controlling the payout device 77 and various control devices and the like, and at the same time, a game associated with the operation of the launch handle 55 by the player. It includes a power supply and a launch control device 79 for controlling the launch of the ball. The payout control device 78 and the power supply and launch control device 79 are arranged so as to be stacked in the front-rear direction so that the payout control device 78 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

The back pack 73 is provided with an external terminal plate 81 in addition to the payout mechanism unit 74 and the control device collecting unit 75. The external terminal plate 81 is installed at the upper corner portion on the back surface of the pachinko machine 10 on the rotation base end side of the back pack unit 15. The external terminal board 81 is a board for outputting a predetermined signal in order to make the management computer of the game hall recognize the state of the pachinko machine 10.

<Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10>
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 6, the supply lines of the operating power from the power supply and launch control device 79 to the main control device 71 and the payout control device 78 are indicated by double-line arrows, and the other supply lines and signal lines are indicated by solid line arrows. ..

The main control device 71 includes a main control board 91 that controls the main control of the game, and a power failure monitoring board (power failure monitoring board) 96 that monitors the power supply. The MPU 92 is mounted on the main control board 91. ROM93 and RWM94 are built in MPU92.

The ROM 93 is configured to use a memory (that is, a non-volatile storage means) that does not require external power supply for storage retention, such as a NOR type flash memory or a NAND type flash memory, as read-only. The ROM 93 stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 92.

The RWM94 is configured to use a memory (that is, a volatile storage means) that requires external power supply for storage retention such as SRAM and DRAM for both reading and writing, and is capable of random access and is the same. When compared with the data capacity of, the time required for reading is faster than that of ROM 93. The RWM 94 temporarily stores various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 93 is executed.

In addition to the above elements, the MPU 92 or the main control board 91 is provided with an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, and the like. It is not essential that the ROM 93 and the RWM 94 are integrated into one chip with respect to the MPU 92, and each may be individually chipped. This also applies to control devices other than the main control device 71.

The MPU 92 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. An input / output port is provided, and the configuration may be such that the input / output port can be switched as needed. This also applies to the MPU of the control device other than the main control device 71. Various control devices are connected to the input side and the output side of the MPU 92, and various sensors, various drive units, and various display units are connected. First, a configuration related to connection with various sensors, various drive units, and various display units will be described.

On the input side of the MPU 92, winning detection sensors 31a, 31b, 31c provided for the general winning opening 31, the variable winning device 32, the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34, and the through gate 35 in the game area, 32e, 33a, 34c, 35a, 35b (hereinafter collectively referred to as winning detection sensors 31a to 35b) are electrically connected via electrical wiring. In this case, the main control board 91 and the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b may be connected to each other via the electrical wiring of 1, and the relay board may be interposed in the middle of each signal path. May be good. This also applies to the configuration related to the connection with other devices. In the MPU 92, signals are received from the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b through the winning IC95 mounted on the main control board 91, and the winning determination (ball winning determination) is performed for each winning unit based on the reception result. It is said.

The winning IC95 is a route abnormality confirmation means or a route abnormality confirmation circuit. The winning IC 95 confirms whether or not normal signal transmission is performed between the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b and the MPU 92.

On the output side of the MPU 92, an electric accessory drive unit 32c that opens and closes the opening / closing door 32b of the variable winning device 32 and an electric accessory drive unit 34b that opens and closes the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 are electrically wired. It is electrically connected via. Further, on the output side of the MPU 92, the main display unit 43 and the accessory display unit 44 are electrically connected via electrical wiring. Various driver circuits are provided on the main control board 91, and the MPU 92 executes drive control of various drive units 32c and 34b and display control of various display units 43 and 44 through the driver circuits.

That is, the drive control of the variable winning drive unit 32c is executed in the MPU 92 so that the large winning opening 32a is opened and closed in the opening / closing execution mode. Further, when the electric accessory 34a is won in the open state, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit 34b is executed in the MPU 92 so that the electric accessory 34a is opened and closed. Further, at each game round, the display control of the main display unit 43 is executed in the MPU 92. Further, when the lottery result of whether or not to open the electric accessory 34a is clearly indicated, the display control of the accessory display unit 44 is executed in the MPU 92.

Incidentally, although the description by illustration is omitted, an external terminal plate 81 is connected to the output side of the MPU 92. The MPU 92 sets information for the RWM 94 according to the progress of the game. Then, the signal output setting is made to the external terminal board 81 according to the information set in the RWM 94, and the state of the pachinko machine 10 is recognized by the hall computer of the game hall.

The payout control device 78 includes a payout control board 101 that controls the payout of game balls through the payout device 77. The MPU 102 is mounted on the payout control board 101. ROM 103 and RWM 104 are built in the MPU 102. The ROM 103 is configured to use a memory (that is, a non-volatile storage means) that does not require external power supply for storage retention, such as a NOR type flash memory or a NAND type flash memory, as read-only. The ROM 103 stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 102.

The RWM 104 is configured to use a memory (that is, a volatile storage means) that requires external power supply for storage retention such as SRAM and DRAM for both reading and writing, and is capable of random access and is the same. When compared with the data capacity of, the time required for reading is faster than that of ROM 103. The RWM 104 temporarily stores various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 103 is executed. In addition to the above elements, the MPU 102 or the payout control board 101 is provided with an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, and the like.

The MPU 102 is electrically connected to the payout device 77. The payout device 77 is switched between a state in which the game ball supplied from the tank 76 to the payout device 77 is prevented from flowing down to the downstream side and a state in which the game ball is sent out to the downstream side. A payout motor 77a for driving a ball stop member such as a rotating body is provided, and a payout detection sensor 77b for individually detecting a game ball sent out to the downstream side is provided. A payout motor 77a is electrically connected to the output side of the MPU 102 via electrical wiring, and a payout detection sensor 77b is electrically connected to the input side of the MPU 102 via electrical wiring. In the MPU 102, the game ball is paid out by supplying a drive signal to the payout motor 77a through a driver circuit provided on the payout control board 101, and the payout is completed based on the detection result of the payout detection sensor 77b. Grasp the number of.

Further, the MPU 102 is electrically connected to the ball rental connection terminal plate 105 provided on the back pack unit 15 through electrical wiring, and the ball rental connection terminal plate 105 is connected to the ball rental device Y through electrical wiring. It is electrically connected.

The ball lending device Y is a so-called CR unit, which is provided on the side of the outer frame 11 although the description by illustration is omitted, and a card insertion slot is provided on the front side of the ball lending device Y. By inserting the card into the card insertion slot and manually operating the ball lending operation device (not shown) provided in the pachinko machine 10, a number of game balls corresponding to the amount stored in the card can be rented out. You can receive it. The MPU 102 executes ball lending control by transmitting and receiving an electric signal to and from the ball lending device Y.

It should be noted that what is inserted into the ball lending device Y when receiving the lending of the game ball is not limited to the card, and may be cash or a coin in which cash information is stored. In addition to the payout device 77 and the ball lending device Y, the MPU 102 is electrically connected to a fullness detection sensor that detects whether the ball tray such as the lower plate 62a is full of game balls. A ballless detection sensor that detects whether the tank 76 is in a ballless state is electrically connected.

Next, the configuration of the power supply and the launch control device 79 will be described.

The power supply and launch control device 79 includes a power supply and launch control board 111, and the power supply and launch control board 111 has a function of supplying operating power to various devices including the main control device 71 and the payout control device 78. A power supply circuit 112 having the power supply circuit 112 is provided. The power supply circuit 112 is provided with a power supply unit 113 for turning on power and a power supply unit 114 for turning off power.

The power supply unit 113 for turning on is connected to a commercial power source (external power source) in, for example, a game hall, and each of the main control device 71, the payout control device 78, and the like is based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source. The operating voltage required for the above is generated, and the generated operating voltage is supplied to the main control device 71, the payout control device 78, and the like. As an outline, the power supply unit 113 at the time of power-on takes in the AC 24-volt power supply supplied through the connection board provided in the back pack unit 15, and has a + 12V voltage for driving various sensors, motors, and the like. A + 5V voltage for logic and the like are generated, and these + 12V voltage and + 5V voltage are supplied to the main control device 71, the payout control device 78, and the like. The connection board is provided with a power switch for turning on / off the power of the pachinko machine 10.

A power failure monitoring board 96 is provided at an intermediate position of the power supply path between the power supply unit 113 for power-on and the MPU 92 of the main control device 71. The power failure monitoring board 96 monitors the DC stable 24 volt voltage, which is the maximum voltage supplied from the power supply unit 113 at the time of power supply. Then, when this voltage becomes less than 22 volts, it is determined that a power failure has occurred, and the output setting of the power failure signal (power interruption signal) to the MPU 92 is set to correspond to the occurrence of the power failure (power interruption). Specifically, a LOW level power failure signal is transmitted when it is determined that the power cutoff has not occurred, and a HI level power failure signal is transmitted when it is determined that the power cutoff has occurred. .. The relationship between LOW and HI may be reversed.

The power supply unit 114 for power interruption is composed of a capacitor, and when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is ON (when power is supplied from a commercial power supply), the power supplied from the power supply unit 113 for power on is used. It will be charged. Further, in a power cut state (when the power supply from the commercial power supply is cut off) such as when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is OFF or when a power failure occurs in the commercial power supply, the power is discharged from the power supply unit 114 for power failure. The storage holding power (backup power) is supplied to the RWM 94 of the control device 71. Therefore, even in such a situation, the information stored in the RWM 94 is stored and retained without being erased while the storage holding power is being supplied from the power supply unit 114 at the time of power failure.

In addition to the power supply circuit 112, the power supply and launch control board 111 is provided with a launch control circuit 115 that controls the launch of the game ball. The launch control circuit 115 is provided with a transmission circuit 116 for satisfying the conditions, a launch permission receiving circuit 117, and a launch IC 118.

The condition-satisfying transmission circuit 116 has a function of transmitting a condition-satisfying signal in a predetermined signal form to the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 when a predetermined launch condition of the game ball is satisfied. .. Specifically, the launch control circuit 115 has a touch sensor 55a that detects that the annular handle portion of the launch handle 55 is being touched by the player, and the game even in a situation where the handle portion is rotated. A ball stop switch 55b, which is manually operated by the player to stop the ball firing, is electrically connected. Further, the launch control circuit 115 is electrically connected to the payout control board 101, and inputs a signal indicating whether or not the ball lending device Y is electrically connected to the ball lending connection terminal plate 105. To do.

The transmission circuit 116 that satisfies the condition receives a signal from the touch sensor 55a indicating that the handle portion is being touched by the player, and also receives a signal from the ball stop switch 55b indicating that the player is not manually operated. Further, when a signal indicating that the ball lending device Y is connected is received from the MPU 102 of the payout control device 78, the HI level condition fulfillment signal (corresponding to the condition fulfillment) to the MPU 92 of the main control device 71. Signal) is transmitted. If any of the above signals is not received, a LOW level condition satisfaction signal (a signal that does not correspond to the condition satisfaction) is transmitted to the MPU 92. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the relationship between the LOW level and the HI level may be reversed.

The firing permission receiving circuit 117 is HI-level firing transmitted from the MPU 92 on the condition that the HI-level condition-satisfying signal is transmitted from the condition-satisfied transmission circuit 116 to the MPU 92 of the main controller 71. It has a function of receiving a permission signal (a signal corresponding to a launch permission) and, when the launch permission signal is received, continuously supplies a signal corresponding to the permission signal to the launch IC 118. When the MPU 92 does not receive the HI level condition satisfying signal from the condition satisfying transmission circuit 116, the MPU 92 transmits a LOW level launch permission signal (a signal that does not correspond to the launch permission), but the launch permission signal. The relationship between the LOW level signal and the HI level signal may be reversed. Further, the MPU 92 newly starts transmitting the HI level emission permission signal each time it starts receiving the HI level condition satisfying signal, and launches the HI level when the reception of the HI level condition satisfying signal is completed. End the transmission of the permission signal.

When the launch IC 118 receives the HI level launch permission signal or the corresponding signal from the launch permission receiving circuit 117, the launch IC 118 is directed to each of the launch solenoid 54 and the ball feed device 53 of the game ball launch mechanism 51. It has a function to output a drive signal on a regular basis. In this case, the launch IC 118 outputs each drive signal as a pulse signal, and the output cycle is 0.6 sec. Further, the output timing of the drive signal is set earlier in the ball feeding device 53 than in the launch solenoid 54 so that the game ball is launched after one game ball is supplied to the launch rail 52. ..

The firing handle 55 is provided with a handle portion as described above, and the larger the amount of operation of the handle portion, the stronger the firing strength of the game ball by the firing solenoid 54. In this case, the firing handle 55 is provided with a variable resistor as an operating amount detecting means for detecting the operating amount of the handle portion, and the firing IC 118 supplies the firing solenoid 54 through the voltage input from the variable resistor. Adjust the voltage of the drive signal to adjust the firing intensity. It is not essential that the adjusting function is provided in the firing IC 118, and an adjusting circuit may be provided in the middle of the signal path between the firing IC 118 and the firing solenoid 54.

Next, the configurations of the voice emission control device 72 and the display control device 97 will be described.

The MPU 122 is mounted on the voice emission control board 121 provided in the voice emission control device 72. The MPU 122 is a ROM 123 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 122, and a memory for temporarily storing various data and the like when the control program stored in the ROM 123 is executed. A certain RWM124, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, and the like are built in.

The MPU 122 drives and controls various lamp units 45, 46, 58a, 58b and the speaker unit 59 based on the command received from the main control device 71. Further, these commands are transmitted as they are or the corresponding commands after analysis are transmitted to the display control device 97. Incidentally, the voice emission control device 72 is electrically connected to the display control device 97 via a connector unit (connection unit) provided with connectors at both ends of the signal line.

The display control device 97 is a display control board 131 on which an MPU 132, which is an element in which a program ROM 133 and a work RWM 134 are combined into chips, a video display processor (VDP) 135, a character ROM 136, and a video RWM 137, respectively, are mounted. It has. It is not essential that the program ROM 133 and the work RWM 134 are integrated into one chip with respect to the MPU 132, and each may be individually chipped.

The MPU 132 analyzes various commands received from the main control device 71 via the voice emission control device 72, or performs predetermined arithmetic processing based on the received commands to control the VDP 135 (specifically, an internal command for the VDP 135). Is generated).

The program ROM 133 is a memory for storing various control programs executed by the MPU 132 and fixed value data, and also stores and holds JPEG format image data for a background image.

The work RWM 134 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, and the like used when executing various programs by the MPU 132.

The VDP 135 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 41. Since the VDP135 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 135 adjusts the timing of each of the MPU 132, the video RWM 137, and the like to intervene in reading and writing data, and reads the image data stored in the video RWM 137 from the character ROM 136 at a predetermined timing and displays it on the symbol display device 41.

The character ROM 136 serves as an image data library for storing character data such as a symbol displayed on the symbol display device 41. The character ROM 136 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, and the like are stored in the character ROM 136.

It is also possible to provide a plurality of character ROMs 136 and share the image data and the like in each character ROM 136. Further, it is also possible to have a configuration in which the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 133 is stored in the character ROM 136.

The video RWM 137 is a memory for storing display data to be displayed on the symbol display device 41, and the display content of the symbol display device 41 is changed by rewriting the content of the video RWM 137.

<Electrical configuration for performing various lottery with MPU 92 of the main control device 71>
Next, an electrical configuration for performing various lottery with the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

The MPU 92 uses various counter information during the game to perform a jackpot generation lottery, a display setting of the main display unit 43, a symbol display setting of the symbol display device 41, a display setting of the accessory display unit 44, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, when the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery for generating jackpots, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type, and the symbol display device 41 are displaced and fluctuate. The reach random number counter C3 used for the reach generation lottery, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the variable type counter for determining the display duration in the main display unit 43 and the symbol display device 41. CS and are to be used. Further, the electric accessory opening counter C4 used for the lottery as to whether or not the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 is set to the electric service open state is used. The counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 are provided in the lottery counter area 94a of the RWM94.

Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 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. The information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 is stored in the hold storage area 94b as the acquisition information storage means when a prize is generated in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. Will be done.

The hold storage area 94b includes a hold area RE and an execution area AE. The holding area RE includes a first holding area RE1, a second holding area RE2, a third holding area RE3, and a fourth holding area RE4, according to the winning history of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. , Each 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 is stored as hold information in any of the hold areas RE1 to RE4.

In this case, in the first holding area RE1 to the fourth holding area RE4, when the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 is awarded a plurality of times in succession, the first holding area RE1 → the second holding area RE1 → the second holding area. Each numerical information is stored in the order of RE2 → 3rd holding area RE3 → 4th holding area RE4 in chronological order. By providing the four holding areas RE1 to RE4 in this way, up to four winning histories of the game balls in the upper working port 33 or the lower working opening 34 can be held and stored. Further, the hold area RE includes a hold number storage area NA, and the hold number storage area NA is used to specify the number of winning histories stored in the upper operation port 33 or the lower operation port 34. Information is stored.

The number that can be stored on hold is not limited to 4, and may be any other number such as 2, 3, or 5 or more, or may be a single number.

The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first hold area RE1 of the hold area RE when starting the variable display of the main display unit 43, and at the start of one game round. Win / fail determination is performed based on various numerical information stored in the execution area AE.

Each of the above counters will be described in detail.

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 hold storage area 94b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34.

The value of the random number that wins the jackpot is stored as a hit / miss table (win / miss information group) in the hit / miss table storage area as the hit / miss information group storage means in the ROM 93. 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.

In the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the low probability mode is referred to in the lottery, the number of random numbers that win the big hit is two. On the other hand, in the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the high probability mode is referred to in the lottery, the number of random numbers that win the big hit is 20. If the winning probability in the high probability mode is higher than that in the low probability mode, the number of random numbers to be won is 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, and then return to 0. The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated, and is stored in the hold storage area 94b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34.

In this pachinko machine 10, a plurality of jackpot results are set. These multiple jackpot results are subject to two conditions: (1) a lottery mode in the winning / failing lottery means after the opening / closing execution mode ends, and (2) a support mode in the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 after the opening / closing execution mode ends. By providing a difference, a plurality of jackpot results are set.

Here, as an mode of opening / closing control of the variable winning device 32 in the opening / closing execution mode, in any of the jackpot results, the round game is executed up to a predetermined number of round games.

The round game satisfies either the condition that the predetermined upper limit duration (upper limit duration) elapses or that the predetermined upper limit number of game balls wins the large winning opening 32a. It is a game that continues until. Further, the number of round games in the open / close execution mode triggered by the jackpot result is the same as the fixed number of rounds regardless of the type of jackpot result triggered by the transition. Specifically, the maximum number of round games is set to 15 rounds (15R) regardless of which jackpot result is obtained. Further, as one opening mode of the variable winning device 32, the opening duration (opening continuation period) from the opening of the large winning opening 32a to the closing is set to 29 sec.

In the pachinko machine 10, when the launching handle 55 is operated by the player, the gaming ball launching mechanism 51 is driven and controlled so that one gaming ball is launched toward the gaming area every 0.6 sec. .. In addition, the maximum number of end conditions for round games is set to 10. Then, in the above-mentioned opening mode, the opening duration is set to be longer than the product of the firing cycle of the game ball and one round game. Therefore, when the variable winning device 32 is opened once, it can be expected that the maximum number of winnings in one round game will be generated for the large winning opening 32a.

As a support mode in the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34, the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 is compared in a situation where the firing of the game ball is continued in the same manner with respect to the game area. High-frequency support mode (high-frequency support state or high-frequency guide state) and low-frequency support mode (low-frequency support state or low-frequency guide state) so that the frequency of opening states per unit time is relatively high or low. And are set.

Specifically, in the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the electric role open state in the electric accessory open lottery using the electric accessory release counter C4 is the same (for example, both are 4/5). However, in the high-frequency support mode, the number of times the electric accessory 34a is opened when the electric accessory open state is won is set more than in the low-frequency support mode, and one more opening. The time is set long. In this case, when the electric accessory open state is won in the high frequency support mode and the electric accessory 34a is opened multiple times, the electric accessory 34a is closed from the end of one open state to the start of the next open state. The time is set shorter than one opening time. Furthermore, in the high-frequency support mode, compared to the low-frequency support mode, a shorter time is secured as the minimum secured time for the next electric accessory opening lottery to be performed after one electric accessory opening lottery is performed. Is set to be selected.

As described above, in the high frequency support mode, the probability that the lower operating port 34 is won is higher than in the low frequency support mode. In other words, in the low frequency support mode, the probability of winning the upper operating port 33 is higher than that of the lower operating port 34, but in the high frequency support mode, the lower operating port 34 is more likely than the upper operating port 33. The probability of winning a prize increases. Then, when a prize is won in the lower operating port 34, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high frequency support mode, the player plays the game while not reducing the number of balls held so much. be able to.

The configuration for increasing the frequency of the high-frequency support mode to be in the electric service open state per unit time is not limited to the above, for example, the electric accessory open lottery. It may be configured to increase the probability of winning the electric service open state in. In addition, the securing time secured for the next electric accessory opening lottery after one electric accessory opening lottery is performed (for example, on the accessory display unit 44 based on the winning of the through gate 35). In a configuration in which multiple types of variable display times are prepared, the high-frequency support mode is set so that a shorter reservation time is easier to select or the average reservation time is shorter than the low-frequency support mode. It may have been done. Furthermore, the number of times of opening is increased, the opening time is lengthened, and the securing time secured for the next electric accessory opening lottery after one electric accessory opening lottery is performed is shortened (that is,). , Shortening the one-time variable display time on the accessory display unit 44), shortening the average time of the securing time, and increasing the winning probability, any one condition or any combination of conditions is applied. This may increase the advantage of the high frequency support mode over the low frequency support mode.

The distribution destination of the game result for the jackpot type counter C2 is stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in the distribution table storage area as the distribution information group storage means in the ROM 93. Then, as the distribution destination, a normal jackpot result (low probability corresponding special game result) and a probability variation jackpot result (high probability corresponding special game result) are set.

The normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. However, this high-frequency support mode shifts to the low-frequency support mode when the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the transition.

The probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high frequency support mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. These high-probability mode and high-frequency support mode continue until the lottery result in the winning / losing lottery becomes a big hit state and the state shifts to the big hit state.

In relation to each of the above game states, the normal game state is not an open / close execution mode, but a state in which the winning / failing lottery mode is a low probability mode and the support mode is a low frequency support mode.

In the distribution table, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of "0 to 29", "0 to 14" corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and "15 to 29" corresponds to the probability variation jackpot result.

As a kind of probability variation jackpot result, after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the high probability mode, and the support mode is maintained in the previous mode (unspecified high probability corresponding game). The result or the result of the latent probability change state) may be included. Further, as a kind of the loss result in the win / fail lottery, a special loss result in which the shift to the open / close execution mode and the transition to the win / fail lottery mode and the support mode do not occur after the end of the open / close execution mode may be included. In this case, the game results will be diversified.

Furthermore, as an mode of opening / closing control of the variable winning device 32 in the opening / closing execution mode, a configuration including a low-frequency winning mode in which winning of the large winning opening 32a in one round game cannot be expected for the maximum number of round games is included. In the opening / closing execution mode based on any of the game results, the opening / closing control may be performed in the above-mentioned low-frequency winning mode. Even in this case, the game results can be diversified.

The reach random number counter C3 has a configuration in which, for example, 1 is added in order within the range of 0 to 238, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated, and is stored in the hold storage area 94b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34.

Here, in the pachinko machine 10, reach display is set as a kind of display effect in the symbol display device 41. The reach display includes a symbol display device 41 capable of variable display (or variable display) of a symbol (picture), and the variable display is performed in a game in which the open / close execution mode of the variable winning device 32 is a high-frequency winning mode. In a gaming machine in which the subsequent stop display result is a special display result, the stop display result is derived and displayed after the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 41 is started. A display state that makes the player think that it is a variable display state that tends to be a special display result.

In the reach display, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is established by stopping and displaying some of the symbol rows among the plurality of symbol rows displayed on the display screen of the symbol display device 41. A display state is included 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. In addition, in the state where the combination of reach symbols is displayed as described above, the remaining symbol rows are displayed in a variable manner, and a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image in the background image to produce a reach effect. , A combination of reach symbols is reduced or hidden, and then a predetermined character or the like is displayed as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen to perform a reach effect.

The reach display is executed regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3 in the game times when the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode. Further, in the game rounds that do not shift to the open / close execution mode, the reach random number counter C3 acquired at a predetermined timing corresponds to the occurrence of the reach display by referring to the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 93. If so, it will be executed.

The variation type counter CS has a configuration in which, for example, 1 is added in order within the range of 0 to 198, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. The variation type counter CS is used in the MPU 92 to determine the variation display time (display continuation period) in the main display unit 43 and the variation display time (display continuation period) of the symbol in the symbol display device 41. The variation type counter CS is updated in each of the main processing and the timer interrupt processing, which will be described later, and is used to determine the variation pattern at the start of the variation display on the main display unit 43 and at the start of the symbol variation by the symbol display device 41. The value of CS is acquired. When determining the variable display time, the variable display time table (variable display time information group) stored in advance in the variable display time table storage area (variable display time information storage means) of the ROM 93 is referred to.

The electric accessory release counter C4 is configured to, for example, add 1 in order within the range of 0 to 250, reach the maximum value, and then return to 0. The electric accessory opening counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric service holding area 94c provided in the RWM 94 at the timing when the game ball wins the through gate 35. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 34a to the open state according to the value of the stored electric accessory opening counter C4.

<About various processes executed by MPU92>
Next, each process executed for advancing the game in the MPU 92 will be described. The processing of the MPU 92 is roughly divided into a main processing that is started when the power is turned on and a timer interrupt processing that is started periodically (in this embodiment, at a cycle of 4 msec).

<Main processing>
First, the main process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S101, the power-on wait process is executed. In the power-on way and the process, for example, the process waits without proceeding to the next process until 1 sec elapses after the main process is started. In the following step S102, access to the RWM94 is permitted, and in step S103, the internal function register of the MPU 92 is set.

After that, in step S104, it is determined whether or not the RWM erasing switch provided in the power supply and launch control device 79 is manually operated, and in the following step S105, whether or not "1" is set in the power failure flag of RWM94. Is determined. Further, in step S106, a checksum calculation process for calculating a checksum is executed, and in the following step S107, whether or not the checksum matches the checksum saved when the power is turned off, that is, the validity of the stored data is determined. judge.

In the pachinko machine 10, when the RWM data is initialized when the power is turned on, for example, when the game hall is open for business, the power is turned on while pressing the RWM erase switch. Therefore, if the RWM erase switch is pressed, the process proceeds to step S108. Further, when the power cutoff occurrence information is not set or when an abnormality of the data stored and held by the checksum is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S108 in the same manner. In step S108, the RWM94 is cleared as the initialization of the RWM94. Then, the process proceeds to step S109.

On the other hand, when the RWM erase switch is not pressed, step S109 is performed without executing the process of step S108, provided that the power failure flag is set to "1" and the checksum is normal. Proceed to. In step S109, the power-on setting process is executed. In the power-on setting process, a predetermined area of RWM94 such as initialization of the power failure flag is set as an initial value, and a command corresponding to the current gaming state is transmitted to the voice emission control device 72 in order to recognize the current gaming state. To do. In addition, a payout initialization command indicating that the initialization of the RWM 104 should be executed is transmitted to the MPU 102. Furthermore, interrupt enable is set to allow the occurrence of timer interrupt processing.

After that, the process proceeds to the residual processing of steps S110 to S113. That is, although the MPU 92 has a configuration in which timer interrupt processing is periodically executed, a residual time is generated between one timer interrupt processing and the next timer interrupt processing. This residual time varies depending on the processing completion time of each timer interrupt process, and the residual process of steps S110 to S113 is repeatedly executed by utilizing the irregular time. In this respect, it can be said that the residual processing in steps S110 to S113 is an irregular processing that is executed irregularly.

In the residual processing, first, in step S110, interrupt prohibition is set in order to prohibit the occurrence of timer interrupt processing. In the following step S111, the random number initial value update process for updating the random number initial value counter CINI is executed, and in step S112, the variation counter update process for updating the variation type counter CS is executed. In these update processes, the current numerical information is read from the corresponding counter of the RWM94, a process of adding 1 to the read numerical information is executed, and then a process of overwriting the read source counter is executed. In this case, when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to "0" respectively. After that, in step S113, the interrupt enable setting for switching from the state in which the occurrence of the timer interrupt process is prohibited to the state in which the timer interrupt process is permitted is set. After executing the process of step S113, the process returns to step S110, and the process of steps S110 to S113 is repeated.

Here, as described above, in the residual processing, only the random number initial value update processing and the fluctuation counter update processing are set so as to be sandwiched between the interrupt prohibition processing and the interrupt permission processing, so that the timer interrupt processing is performed. Is always started immediately before step S110. Then, after the timer interrupt processing is completed, it is always sufficient to start from step S110, and the return address after the timer interrupt processing becomes unique. Therefore, it is not necessary to store the current return address at the start of the timer interrupt processing, and the processing load at the start of the timer interrupt processing is reduced.

Further, since the timer interrupt processing does not occur during the calculation of the predetermined data in the MPU 92, the data stored in the register of the MPU 92 at that time is saved to the RWM 94 at the start of the timer interrupt processing. It is not necessary to execute the above, and similarly, it is not necessary to execute the data return processing to the register of the MPU 92 at the end of the timer interrupt processing. Therefore, the processing load at the start of the timer interrupt processing is reduced, and the processing load at the end of the timer interrupt processing is also reduced.

Further, since the timer interrupt processing is not started during the update of the random number initial value counter CINI or the update of the variation type counter CS, the timer interrupt processing of these counters is performed even though these are being updated. It is possible to prevent the numerical information from being acquired and further update processing from being executed.

<Timer interrupt processing>
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

Here, a hardware configuration for periodically executing timer interrupt processing in the MPU 92 will be described. A clock circuit is provided on the main control board 91 as a pulse signal output means for outputting a pulse signal at a predetermined cycle, and a frequency dividing circuit is provided so as to exist in the middle of a signal path between the clock circuit and the MPU 92. Is provided.

The frequency dividing circuit functions as a frequency changing means for changing the cycle of the pulse signal from the clock circuit, and is configured to output a pulse signal for specifying the start timing of the timer interrupt processing by the MPU 92. That is, the pulse signal is supplied from the frequency dividing circuit to the MPU 92 at intervals of 4 msec, which is a specific period. The MPU 92 executes a process for confirming the occurrence of a specific signal form such as a rising edge or a falling edge of the pulse signal, and activates and executes the timer interrupt process on the condition that the occurrence of the specific signal form is confirmed as at least one condition. To do.

In this case, if the occurrence of the above specific signal form is confirmed in a situation where the activation of timer interrupt processing is prohibited, the timer is changed from the state in which the interrupt is prohibited to the state in which the interrupt is permitted. Interrupt processing is started. That is, depending on the processing execution status of the MPU 92, the next timer interrupt processing may be started after 4.1 msec has elapsed from the start of the previous timer interrupt processing. If such an event occurs, the next timer interrupt processing may be started. The timer interrupt processing will be started after 3.9 msec has elapsed from the start of the immediately preceding timer interrupt processing.

However, since the output of the pulse signal from the frequency divider circuit is performed in a specific cycle such as 4 msec regardless of the progress of the process in the MPU 92, the timer interrupt process is basically started in the specific cycle. Furthermore, the processing configuration of the MPU 92 is such that even if the timer interrupt processing at a predetermined timing is started after a period exceeding a specific cycle has elapsed since the previous timer interrupt processing was started, the timing next to the predetermined timing is used. In the timer interrupt processing in, the portion exceeding the specific cycle is absorbed, and in the timer interrupt processing in the next timing, it is set to be started at the timing when the input of the pulse signal is confirmed.

In the timer interrupt process, first, in step S201, the power failure information storage process is executed. In the power failure information storage process, it is monitored whether or not a power failure signal corresponding to the occurrence of power failure is received from the power failure monitoring board 96, and if the occurrence of a power failure is identified, the power failure processing is executed.

In the following step S202, the lottery random number update process is executed. In the lottery random number update process, 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, after executing the process of sequentially reading the current numerical information from the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the electric accessory opening counter C4, and adding 1 to each of the read numerical information. , Executes the process of overwriting the read source counter. In this case, when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to "0" respectively.

After that, in step S203, the random number initial value update process is executed in the same manner as in step S111, and in step S204, the fluctuation counter update process is executed in the same manner as in step S112.

In the following step S205, the game stop determination process is executed. In the game stop determination process, it is monitored whether or not the progress of the game should be stopped, and if the situation should stop the progress of the game, the execution of the process for advancing the game is stopped. Specifically, when it is determined in the fraud detection process (step S211) described later that fraud is detected and the progress of the game should be stopped, the variable winning device 32 and the electric accessory 34a are forcibly closed. The process of forcibly stopping the launch of the game ball from the game ball launch mechanism 51 is executed. As the process of stopping the launch of the game ball, even if the signal level of the transmission circuit 116 that satisfies the condition in the launch control circuit 115 is the HI level, the signal level of the launch permission receiving circuit 117 is set to the LOW level and the launch solenoid 54 or the like is used. Stop control.

After that, in step S206, it is determined whether or not the progress of the game is stopped, and the processes after step S207 are executed on condition that the progress of the game is not stopped.

In step S207, the port output process is executed. In the port output process, when the output information is set in the previous timer interrupt process, the process for outputting the output corresponding to the output information to the various drive units 32c and 34b is executed. For example, when the information to switch the large winning opening 32a to the open state is set, the output of the drive signal to the variable winning drive unit 32c is started, and when the information to switch to the closed state is set. The output of the drive signal is stopped. Further, when the information for switching the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 to the open state is set, the output of the drive signal to the electric accessory drive unit 34b is started, and the information for switching to the closed state is set. If so, the output of the drive signal is stopped.

In step S208, the reading process is executed. In the reading process, signals other than the power failure signal and the winning signal are read, and the read information is stored for use in future processing.

In step S209, the signals received from the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b are read, and the winning detection process for performing the processing corresponding to the read information is executed. The processing content of the prize detection process will be described in detail later. Further, in step S210, a timer update process for collectively updating the numerical information of a predetermined timer counter provided in the RWM 94 is executed.

In step S211th, fraud detection processing for monitoring whether or not a predetermined event set as a monitoring target for fraud has occurred is executed.

In step S212, a launch control process for executing launch control of the game ball is executed. The contents of the launch control process will be described in detail later. Further, in step S213, as the input state monitoring process, based on the information read in the reading process of step S208, the disconnection confirmation of the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b and the opening confirmation of the gaming machine main body 12 and the front door frame 14 are confirmed. I do.

In step S214, the special figure special electric control process for performing the execution control of the game times and the execution control of the opening / closing execution mode is executed. In the special figure special electric control process, when a prize is generated in the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 in a situation where the number of reserved information stored in the holding storage area 94b is less than the upper limit number, at that time. The processing of storing each numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 as hold information in the hold storage area 94b in chronological order is executed. Further, in the special figure special electric control process, when the hold information is stored, an internal lottery is performed for the hold information and the result of the internal lottery is executed as an effect for the game round. Then, the first game state transition process for shifting the game state according to the internal lottery result is executed. Further, the second game state transition process for shifting the support mode and the lottery mode in each game round is executed. The first game state transition process and the second game state transition process will be described later.

After executing the special figure special electric control process in step S214, the normal figure general electric control process is executed in step S215. In the Fuzu Fuden control process, when a prize has been won in the through gate 35, a process for acquiring the hold information on the Fuzu side is executed, and the hold information on the Fuzu side is stored. In addition, a release determination is made for the held information, and a process for performing an effect for a general drawing is executed with the release determination as an opportunity. Further, based on the result of the opening determination, a process of opening and closing the electric accessory 34a of the lower operating port 34 is executed.

In step S216, based on the processing results of the immediately preceding steps S214 and S215, the output information for reflecting the increase / decrease number of the hold information related to the main display unit 43 in the first hold lamp unit 45 is set, and the output information is set. The output information is set so that the increase / decrease number of the hold information related to the object display unit 44 is reflected in the second hold lamp unit 46.

In step S217, a demo display process for making the display content of the symbol display device 41 for standby display is executed in a situation where both the game times and the open / close execution mode are not executed, and in step S218, the payout is performed. The contents of the command and the signal received from the MPU 102 of the control device 78 are confirmed, and the payout state reception process for performing the process corresponding to the confirmation result is executed. Further, in step S219, a payout output process for setting the prize ball command as an output target is executed.

In step S220, the external information setting process is executed so as to control the start and end of the output of the external signal according to the processing results of the various processes executed in the timer interrupt process this time. Further, in step S221, a process for editing the test firing test information is executed.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S206, or after the processes of steps S207 to S221 are executed, the process proceeds to step S222. In step S222, the interrupt end declaration is set. In MPU 92, once timer interrupt processing is started, it is stipulated that an interrupt end declaration is set as one of the conditions for starting the next timer interrupt processing. In step S222, the next timer is set. Set the interrupt end declaration to enable execution of interrupt processing. Further, in step S223, interrupt permission is set. In the MPU 92, once the timer interrupt processing is started, it is set to the interrupt disabled state. Therefore, in step S223, the interrupt permission is set in order to enable the execution of the next timer interrupt processing. After that, the timer interrupt processing is terminated.

<Processing related to the display of the number of acquired balls>
In the pachinko machine 10, the number of game balls acquired during a predetermined period (number of acquired balls) is displayed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41. These processes will be described.

<Launch control process>
First, the firing control process executed in step S212 of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the condition satisfaction signal from the power supply and the launch control device 79 is at the HI level. Such a condition satisfying signal is input to an input port (not shown) in the MPU 92 of the main controller 71 through the condition satisfying transmission circuit 116. In step S301, by monitoring the input port, it is determined whether or not the condition satisfying signal is at the HI level.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S301, it is determined in the following step S302 whether or not the firing is permitted. The launch permitted state means that the launch permission signal of the HI level has already been output through the launch permission reception circuit 117, and "1" is stored in the launch permission flag in the RWM94. is there. If it is not in the launch-permitted state, in the following step S303, the launch-permitted state is set by storing "1" in the launch-permitted flag of the RWM94. In the following step S304, the output state of the launch permission signal is set to the HI level. As a result, the power supply and the launch control device 79 are allowed to launch the game ball. When an affirmative determination is made in step S302 or after the process of step S304 is executed, the number of shot balls is measured in step S305 to end the main launch control process. The firing ball number measurement process will be described in detail later.

If a negative determination is made in step S301, the process proceeds to step S306. In step S306, the launch permitted state is released by erasing the launch permitted flag of the RWM94. In the following step S307, the output state of the launch permission signal is set to the LOW level. As a result, the power supply and the launch control device 79 are not allowed to launch the game ball.

After executing the process of step S307, in step S308, the process of updating the value of the firing cycle counter HC provided in the RWM94 to "0" is executed. The firing cycle counter HC can be updated in 1 unit from the initial value "0" to the maximum value "149" in the firing ball number measurement process described later, and in step S308, the firing permitted state is released. Therefore, the value of the firing cycle counter HC will be reset to the initial value. After executing the process of step S308, the main launch control process is terminated.

Further, although not shown, the power supply and the launch control device 79 clear the count of the launch cycle of the game ball in the launch IC 118 and reset it to the initial value based on the output state of the launch permission signal reaching the LOW level. To do. That is, it can be said that the firing cycle counter HC and the firing cycle in the firing IC are synchronized.

That is, in the pachinko machine 10, it is determined that the launch permission condition is satisfied in the RWM94 on the condition that the launch condition signal from the power supply and the launch control device 79 is at the HI level, and the launch of the game ball is permitted. It is a configuration to be done. As described above, the power supply and launch control device 79 controls the game ball launch mechanism 51 to launch the game ball at a cycle of 0.6 sec, provided that the launch permission signal from the RWM 94 is at the HI level.

Further, as described above, when it is determined in the game stop determination process (step S205) that the progress of the game should be stopped, even if the signal level of the transmission circuit 116 for satisfying the condition is the HI level, the game is fired. The signal level of the permission receiving circuit 117 is set to the LOW level. Along with this, the game stop determination process also cancels the firing permitted state. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 10, two conditions are satisfied: that the firing conditions on the power supply and launch control device 79 side are satisfied, and that the launch permission conditions on the main control device 71 side are satisfied. If so, the game ball is launched.

Here, the firing ball number measurement process executed in step S305 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the launch ball number measurement process, first, in step S401, it is determined whether or not the measurement start flag is stored in the RWM94. The measurement start flag is a flag that is stored in the RWM94 at the start of the open / close execution mode in the first game state transition process described later, and is cleared when shifting from the high frequency support mode to the low frequency support mode in the game times. , Is a flag for indicating a period for displaying the number of acquired balls on the symbol display device 41. If the measurement start flag is not stored, the main launch ball number measurement process is terminated as it is.

When the measurement start flag is stored, "1" is added to the value of the firing cycle counter HC in the following step S402. In the following step S403, as a result of the processing in step S402, it is determined whether or not the value of the firing cycle counter HC is the maximum value "149", and if it is the maximum value, the firing cycle counter HC is set in the following step S404. Reset to the initial value "0". If a negative determination is made in step S403, the main launch ball number measurement process is terminated as it is.

After executing the process of step S404, "1" is added to the value of the launch ball counter HN provided in the RWM 94 in step S405. The launch ball number counter HN is a counter that indicates the number of launch balls during the period in which the measurement start flag is stored, and can count from the initial value “0” to the maximum value “65535”. If the value of the launch ball counter HN is the maximum value in step S405, the addition process is not performed. After executing the process of step S404, the main launch ball number measurement process is terminated.

The maximum value of the launch ball counter HN is not limited to the above, and may be more or less than "65535". Further, when the value of the launch ball counter HN reaches the maximum value, the initial value may be restored.

As described above, the launch cycle of the game ball in the game ball launch mechanism 51 is 0.6 sec. On the other hand, in this firing ball number measurement process, when the firing cycle counter HC is added by "1" from the initial value "0" to the maximum value "149", the firing cycle counter HC is reset to the initial value. Set. Since the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) is executed in a cycle of 4 msec, it takes 0.6 sec for the main firing cycle counter HC to make one revolution, which is the same cycle as the firing cycle in the game ball launch mechanism 51.

Further, although not shown, the game ball launch mechanism 51 is configured to launch the game ball 0.6 sec after the launch permitted state is released in the middle of the launch cycle. It has become. On the other hand, the firing cycle counter HC is reset to the initial value in step S308 when the firing permitted state is released. Therefore, even when the measurement start flag is stored, when the firing permitted state is released, the firing is performed after the firing permitted state is reached again, as in the firing cycle of the game ball launch mechanism 51. The cycle counter HC is configured to perform addition processing from the initial value.

Further, as will be described in detail later, when the measurement period of the number of launched balls ends, a process of resetting the firing cycle counter HC and the number of launched balls counter HN to the initial values is performed.

Therefore, when the measurement period of the number of launched balls is completed and the measurement start flag is stored again, both the firing cycle and the number of launched balls are measured from the initial values.

The firing cycle of the game ball in the game ball launching mechanism 51 is set to 0.6 sec, but the period is not limited to this, and may be longer or shorter than 0.6 sec. Further, the firing cycle may be changed according to the game state. Further, the firing cycle may be determined by lottery. In these cases, the maximum value of the firing cycle counter HC may be changed according to the cycle determined by setting, changing, or lottery.

<Prize detection processing>
Next, the winning detection process executed in step S209 of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) will be described.

In the winning detection process, a process of confirming the detection results of the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b is executed, and the input port of the MPU 92 is confirmed at the time of the confirmation. Here, prior to the description of the winning detection process, an electrical configuration for inputting the detection results of the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b to the input port 92a of the MPU 92 will be described with reference to FIG.

The input port 92a is configured as an 8-bit parallel interface so that eight types of signals can be handled at the same time. An area in which information of "0" or "1" is stored according to the voltage of each signal is provided in a one-to-one correspondence with each terminal. That is, the 0th bit D0 to the 7th bit D7 are provided as the area.

Further, more than eight types of signals are input to the input port 92a, but in order to limit the targets to be input at the same time to eight types, the signal group to be input to the input port 92a depends on the driver IC. It can be switched through switching control. In the winning detection process, a signal group to be input to the input port 92a is set in each winning detection sensor 31a to 35b.

In the situation where such a setting is made, the 0th bit D0 stores the information corresponding to the winning signal from the large winning opening detection sensor 32e, and the 1st bit D1 is the information corresponding to the winning signal from the upper operating opening detection sensor 33a. Is stored, the second bit D2 stores the information corresponding to the winning signal from the lower operating port detection sensor 34c, and the third bit D3 stores the information corresponding to the winning signal from the first winning opening detection sensor 31a. , The 4th bit D4 stores the information corresponding to the winning signal from the 2nd winning opening detection sensor 31b, and the 5th bit D5 stores the information corresponding to the winning signal from the 3rd winning opening detection sensor 31c. The 6-bit D6 stores information corresponding to the winning signal from the first gate detection sensor 35a, and the 7th bit D7 stores information corresponding to the winning signal from the second gate detection sensor 35b.

In this case, the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b output an HI level signal indicating that the winning signal is not detected when the passage of the game ball is not detected, and the passage of the game ball is detected. If it is detected, a LOW level signal indicating that it is being detected is output as a winning signal. However, the main control board 91 is provided with an inverting circuit, and the signal state is inverted before each of the above detection signals is input to the input port 92a. Then, the input port 92a stores "0" information (data 0 or none information) for the corresponding bit when the LOW level signal is received through the inverting circuit, and receives the HI level signal through the inverting circuit. If this is the case, the information of "1" (data 1 or existence information) is stored for the corresponding bit.

That is, in the situation where the passing of the game ball is not detected by the winning detection sensors 31a to 35b, the information of "0" corresponding to the information indicating that the corresponding bit is not detected is stored, and the passing of the game ball is performed. In the detected situation, the information of "1" corresponding to the information indicating that the bit is being detected is stored for the corresponding bit.

The winning detection sensors 31a to 35b output a LOW level signal as a winning signal while not detecting the passage of the game ball, and an HI level signal as a winning signal while detecting the passage of the game ball. May be configured to output. In this case, the inverting circuit may not be provided.

In the winning detection process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13A, first, in step S501, the information currently stored in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 is transferred to the first register of the MPU 92. The process of shifting to the winning determination area WA1 is executed. The first winning determination area WA1 is composed of 8 bits as shown in FIG. 13 (b-1), and stores all the information stored in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7. Is the possible data capacity. In this case, the storage source bits in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 and the storage destination bits in the first winning determination area WA1 are predetermined in a one-to-one correspondence, for example, the 0th bit D0. Information is always stored in a predetermined bit in the first winning determination area WA1.

In the following step S502, the wait process for detecting the winning is executed. In the wait process, the MPU 92 waits without executing any process until a predetermined wait time elapses. In the pachinko machine 10, the wait time is set to 10 μsec, but the wait time is set to 10 μsec without hindering the execution of the periodic timer interrupt process, and the effect described later by setting the wait process is sufficiently exhibited. If this is possible, the specific wait time is arbitrary, but is preferably in the range of 2 μsec to 500 μsec, and more preferably in the range of 10 μsec to 100 μsec.

By the way, MPU 92 requires at least 1.2 μsec to execute the process of one step. Therefore, even if the process of step S502 is not set, a forced wait time of 1.2 μsec is generated between step S501 and step S503. In this regard, in step S302, not only the minimum time required to execute the process but also an additional wait time is set between the process of step S501 and the process of step S503.

In the following step S503, a process of shifting the information currently stored in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 to the second winning determination area WA2 in the register of the MPU 92 is executed. By the way, since the information in the input port 92a is updated at an interval shorter than the time from the completion of step S501 to the start of step S503, the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 are performed in step S503. The information transferred from can be different from that of step S501.

Like the first winning determination area WA1, the second winning determination area WA2 is composed of 8 bits as shown in FIG. 13 (b-2), and is stored in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7. It is a data capacity that can store all of the information. In this case, the storage source bits in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 and the storage destination bits in the second winning determination area WA2 are predetermined in a one-to-one correspondence, and further, the storage source bits. The relationship between the bit and the storage destination bit is the same as in the case of the first winning determination area WA1.

Then, in step S504, after the winning determination process is executed, the main winning detection process is terminated. Here, the winning determination process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the winning determination process, first, in step S601, 8 is set in the winning determination counter provided in the RWM94. In the following step S602, each bit information corresponding to the numerical information of the current winning determination counter in the first winning determination area WA1 and the second winning determination area WA2 is grasped. Each piece of information grasped in this case is information read from the same bit in the input port 92a.

In the following step S603, the AND processing of each information grasped in step S402 is executed, the AND processing result is stored in the register, and in step S604, the area WA3 after the first calculation and the area WA4 after the second calculation Among them, the AND processing result is stored in the corresponding bit on the side different from the side where the information of the AND processing result is stored in the winning detection processing in the processing round of the previous timer interrupt processing. The first post-calculation area WA3 and the second post-calculation area WA4 are composed of 8 bits as shown in FIGS. 13 (b-3) and 13 (b-4), and are each of the first winning determination area WA1. The data capacity is such that all the information of the AND processing result of the bit and each bit of the second winning determination area WA2 can be stored. In this case, the order of the bits in the first winning determination area WA1 and the second winning determination area WA2, which are the targets of the AND process, and the order of the bits in the first calculated area WA3 and the second post-calculated area WA4 are unique. It is defined as a target.

After that, in step S605, of the area WA3 after the first calculation and the area WA4 after the second calculation, the side in which the information of the result of the AND processing is stored in the winning determination processing in the processing times of the previous timer interrupt processing. Then, the bit information corresponding to the numerical information of the current winning judgment counter is read out. Then, in step S606, a reversing process for reversing the read information between "0" and "1" is executed.

After that, in step S607, the AND processing of the information of the AND processing result in step S603 and the information of the inversion processing result in step S606 is executed, and in the subsequent step S608, the result of the AND processing becomes the winning detection start information. It is determined whether or not it is the corresponding "1".

When it is determined in step S608 that the AND processing result is "1", in step S609, the numerical information of the current winning determination counter corresponds to either the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. It is determined whether or not the information indicates a bit. When it corresponds to either the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34, "1" is stored in the operation winning flag provided in the RWM94 in step S610, and in the subsequent step S611, the RWM94 is set. The numerical information of the provided three prize ball counters is added by one.

The operation winning flag is a flag for specifying in the MPU 92 that the processing corresponding to the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34 and the processing other than the execution of the prize ball should be executed. .. By the way, in the configuration in which the winning detection sensors 33a and 34c are provided for the upper operating port 33 and the lower operating port 34, respectively, the winning of the upper operating port 33 and the winning of the lower operating port 34 are timers. It may be grasped at the same time within the range of one processing of interrupt processing. Therefore, in order to correspond to this, the operation winning flags are provided corresponding to the number of the operation ports 33 and 34, and specifically, two are provided. Further, the three prize ball counter is a counter for specifying the number of times to output the three prize ball command instructing the execution of the three prize balls by the MPU 92.

If a negative determination is made in step S609, it is determined in step S612 whether or not the numerical information of the current winning determination counter is information indicating a bit corresponding to the variable winning device 32. When the variable winning device 32 is supported, "1" is stored in the large winning flag provided in the RWM94 in step S613, and the 15 prize ball counters provided in the RWM94 in the following step S614. The numerical information of is added by 1.

The large prize flag is a flag for specifying in the MPU 92 that the process corresponds to the winning of the variable prize device 32 and the process other than the execution of the prize ball should be executed. Further, the 15 prize ball counter is a counter for specifying the number of times to output the 15 prize ball command instructing the execution of the 15 prize balls by the MPU 92.

If a negative determination is made in step S612, it is determined in step S615 whether or not the numerical information of the current winning determination counter is information indicating a bit corresponding to the through gate 35. When the through gate 35 is supported, "1" is stored in the through flag provided in the RWM 94 in step S616. If a negative judgment is made in step S615, it means that the current prize corresponds to the general prize opening 31, and therefore, in step S617, the numerical information of the 10 prize ball counter provided in the RWM94. Is added by 1.

The through flag is a flag for specifying in the MPU 92 that the process corresponding to the winning of the through gate 35 should be executed. Further, the 10-prize ball counter is a counter for specifying the number of times to output the 10-prize ball command instructing the execution of the 10 prize balls by the MPU 92.

If a negative determination is made in step S608, or after executing any of the processes of step S611, step S614, step S616, and step S617, the process proceeds to step S618. In step S618, the winning determination counter is subtracted by 1, and then, in step S619, it is determined whether or not the winning determination counter is “0”.

If it is not "0", the processes of steps S602 to S617 are executed for the bits corresponding to the numerical information of the winning determination counter updated in step S618. When the processing of steps S602 to S617 is executed for the numerical information set in step S601, an affirmative determination is made in step S619, and by making an affirmative determination, the process proceeds to step S620 and the net increase. After executing the ball number calculation process, the final winning determination process is terminated.

Here, the net increase sphere number calculation process in step S620 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the net increase sphere number calculation process, first, in step S701, it is determined whether or not the measurement start flag provided in the RWM 94 is “1”. If the measurement start flag is not stored, the net increase ball count calculation process is terminated as it is.

When the measurement start flag is "1", it is determined in step S702 whether or not any of the prize ball counters is "1" or more as a result of the processing of step S611, step S614 or step S617. .. When all the prize ball counters are "0", a game ball is entered into the prize ball entry portions such as the upper operating port 33, the lower operating port 34, the large winning opening 32a, and the general winning opening 31. Since this is not done, the net increase sphere calculation process is terminated as it is.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S702, it is determined in the following step S703 whether or not the 15 prize ball counters are "1" or more. If an affirmative judgment is made in step S703, that is, if a prize has been generated in the large winning opening 32a, it is determined in step S704 whether or not the value of the number of shot balls counter HN is "15" or less. If it is "15" or less, the value of the launch ball counter HN is subtracted from "15" in step S705, the numerical information is input to the increase command, and the value is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. .. The increase command is composed of a plurality of bits, and can include information that it is an increase command and the numerical information input above. The voice emission control device 72 transmits the received increase command as it is to the display control device 97. The display control device 97 executes the addition process of the total number of acquired balls based on the reception of the increase command. This process will be described later.

When a negative determination is made in step S704, that is, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is larger than "15", "15" is subtracted from the value of the launch ball counter HN in step S706, and the numerical information is obtained. It is input to the decrease command and set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. The decrement command is composed of a plurality of bits, and can include information that it is a decrement command and the numerical information input above. The voice emission control device 72 transmits the received reduction command as it is to the display control device 97. The display control device 97 executes the subtraction process of the total number of acquired balls based on the reception of the decrease command. This process will be described later.

If a negative determination is made in step S703, it is determined in step S707 whether or not the 10 prize ball counter is "1" or more. If an affirmative judgment is made in step S707, that is, if a prize has been generated in the general winning opening 31, it is determined in step S708 whether or not the value of the number of shot balls counter HN is "10" or less. If it is "10" or less, the value of the launch ball counter HN is subtracted from "10" in step S709, the numerical information is input to the increase command, and the value is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. .. When a negative determination is made in step S708, that is, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is larger than "10", "10" is subtracted from the value of the launch ball counter HN in step S710, and the numerical information is obtained. It is input to the decrease command and set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72.

If a negative determination is made in step S707, that is, if any of the operating ports 33 and 34 has been won, it is determined in step S711 whether or not the value of the launch ball counter HN is "3" or less. judge. If it is "3" or less, the value of the launch ball counter HN is subtracted from "3" in step S712, the numerical information is input to the increase command, and the value is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. .. When a negative determination is made in step S711, that is, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is larger than 3, "3" is subtracted from the value of the launch ball counter HN in step S713, and the numerical information is reduced. Is input to, and is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72.

After executing any of the processes of step S705, step S706, step S709, step S710, step S712, and step S713, the process proceeds to step S714. In step S714, the value of the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0". After executing the process of step S714, the present net increase sphere number calculation process is terminated.

By the way, although not shown, when a numerical value of "1" or more is input to each prize ball counter, the payout output process (step S219) is performed every time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) is executed once. Then, the prize ball command of the number of prize balls corresponding to each prize ball counter is transmitted to the payout control device 78. Then, when the corresponding prize ball command is transmitted, each prize ball counter is decremented by "1". Further, in the payout output processing, one prize ball command is transmitted in one processing time, and even if one of the prize ball counters is "1" or more after subtraction, it is carried over to the next processing time.

Further, as the priority for outputting the corresponding prize ball command in the payout output process, that is, the priority for subtracting each prize ball counter, the 15 prize ball counters, the 10 prize ball counters, and the 3 prize ball counters are subtracted in this order. It has a structure, and is in the same order as the priority in this net increase ball count calculation process. Further, in this net increase ball count calculation process, only the prize ball counter is referred to and subtraction is not performed. Further, in the timer interrupt processing, the winning detection processing is executed with priority over the payout output processing. As a result, the numerical information of each prize ball counter referred to in the net increase ball count calculation process and the numerical information of each prize ball counter referred to in the payout output process thereafter become the same numerical information.

Based on receiving the prize ball command, the payout control device 78 controls the payout device 77 so as to pay out the game balls of the number of prize balls included in the prize ball command. On the other hand, the game ball launch mechanism 51 launches the game ball under the condition that the launch permission condition is satisfied. Therefore, the number of game balls actually acquired by the player is the number of game balls launched from the game ball launching mechanism 51 from the number of game balls paid out from the payout device 77 (number of payout balls). It is the number of balls obtained by subtracting the number of launched balls).

On the other hand, in this net increase ball number calculation process, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball entry section that has entered is triggered by the entry of the game ball into any of the prize ball entry sections. The number of launched balls is subtracted, and the information is transmitted to the display control device 97 as an increase command or a decrease command through the voice emission control device 72. Therefore, it can be said that the numerical information included in each command received by the display control device 97 is equivalent to the number of balls obtained by subtracting the number of launched balls from the actual number of payout balls, that is, the number of game balls actually acquired by the player. ..

<1st game state transition process>
Next, the first game state transition process executed in the special figure special electric control process of step S214 in the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

Here, the start and end of the variation display of the game times of 1 are controlled by the control process for the game times executed by the special figure special electric control process. That is, the game result of each game is used by using the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 stored in the hold storage area 94b based on the winning of the upper operating port 33 or the lower operating port 34. The variation display time and the like are determined, and the variation display of each game is executed based on them. Then, in the case of the game result corresponding to the big hit winning, the transition process to the open / close execution mode for opening / closing the variable winning device 32 is performed.

By the way, in the first game state transition process, first, in step S801, 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 S802, and it is determined whether or not it is the timing at which the variation display of the pattern on the main display unit 43 of one game round is completed. If it is not the timing when the fluctuation display is finished, the game state transition process is finished as it is.

When the variation display is finished, in step S803, it is determined whether or not the game result of the game times finished this time corresponds to the transition to the open / close execution mode. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the game result of this time is one of the big hit results. If it does not correspond to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the game state transition process is terminated as it is.

When the transition to the open / close execution mode is supported, "1" is stored in the measurement start flag provided in the RWM94 in step S804. As a result, the measurement of the number of launched balls in the above-mentioned number of launched balls measurement process (FIG. 11), the calculation of the number of payout balls and the number of launched balls in the net increase number of balls calculation process (FIG. 15), and the output setting are started. .. In the following step S805, the measurement start command is set as the output target for the voice emission control device 72. The voice emission control device 72 transmits the received measurement start command as it is to the display control device 97. The display control device 97 starts a process for displaying the acquired number of balls on the symbol display device 41 based on the reception of the measurement start command. This process will be described later.

In the following step S806, "15" is set in the round counter RC provided in the RWM94. The round counter RC is a counter for specifying the number of round games to be executed within the range of one open / close execution mode by the MPU 92.

In the following step S807, "1000" is set as the waiting time (standby period) for the opening in the timer counter TC provided in the RWM94. The numerical information set in the timer counter TC is updated so as to be decremented by 1 for each processing of the timer interrupt processing (FIG. 9). Therefore, the waiting time for the opening is 4 sec. However, the waiting time is arbitrary.

After executing the process of step S807, in step S808, the opening command is set as the output target for the voice emission control device 72. By receiving the opening command, the voice emission control device 72 determines the effect content for the open / close execution mode corresponding to the command, and starts the drive control of the indicator lamp unit 58a and the speaker unit 59 according to the determination result. To do. In addition, the opening command is transmitted to the display control device 97. In the display control device 97, the symbol display device 41 starts the image display effect for the open / close execution mode corresponding to the received opening command. After executing the process of step S808, the game state transition process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S801 that the opening / closing execution mode is in progress, the process proceeds to step S809. In step S809, the large winning opening opening / closing process is executed. In the large winning opening opening / closing process, when the large winning opening 32a is closed, the large winning opening is driven by the variable winning drive unit 32c on the condition that the round counter RC is "1" or more. Open 32a. Further, when the large winning opening 32a is open, the variable winning driving unit is provided on the condition that the opening limit time has elapsed from the opening of the large winning opening 32a or the opening limit number has been won. The driving state of 32c is stopped, and the large winning opening 32a is closed.

After executing the process of step S809, it is determined in step S810 whether or not the round counter RC is "0", and in step S811 it is determined whether or not the timer counter TC is "0". .. If a negative determination is made in either step S810 or step S811, the game state transition process is terminated as it is, and if an affirmative determination is made in both steps S810 and S811, opening / closing is executed in step S812. Executes the migration process at the end of the mode.

In the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode, a process is executed so that the game state after the open / close execution mode corresponds to the game result that triggered the transition of the open / close execution mode executed this time. .. That is, when the game result that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time is a probability variation jackpot result, the lottery mode is set to the high probability mode, and the high frequency support mode with no limit on the number of times is set. In addition, when the game result that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time is a normal jackpot result, the lottery mode is set to the low probability mode and the high frequency support mode with a limited number of times is set. Further, when setting the high frequency support mode with a limited number of times, "1" is stored in the number limit flag of the RWM94, and "100", which is the end reference number of the high frequency support mode, is set in the RWM94. Frequency Set in the game count counter. The number-of-times limit flag is a flag for the MPU 92 to specify that the current high-frequency support mode is a high-frequency support mode with a limited number of times. Further, the high-frequency game count counter is a counter in which "1" is subtracted each time the fluctuation display of one game is completed.

After executing the process of step S812, the ending command is set as the output target for the voice emission control device 72 in step S813, and the first game state transition process is completed. The voice emission control device 72 determines the content of the effect corresponding to the end of the open / close execution mode based on the received ending command, and sets the indicator lamp unit 58a and the speaker unit 59 so that the determined content of the effect is executed. Drive control. In addition, the ending command is transmitted to the display control device 97. In the display control device 97, the symbol display device 41 starts the image display effect for ending the open / close execution mode corresponding to the received ending command.

<Second game state transition process>
Next, the second game state transition process executed in the special figure special electric control process of step S214 in the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the second game state transition process, first, it is determined in step S901 whether or not the high frequency support flag is stored. If the high-frequency support flag is stored, it is determined in the subsequent step S902 whether or not the number-of-times limit flag is stored. When the number-of-times limit flag is stored, it is determined in the following step S903 whether or not the high-frequency game count counter is "0". If a negative determination is made in any of steps S901 to S903, the second game state transition process is terminated as it is.

If an affirmative decision is made in step S903, that is, in the high-frequency support mode with a limited number of times and the high-frequency game count counter is "0", the process proceeds to step S904. In step S904, the high frequency support flag is cleared. This sets the support mode to the low frequency support mode. In the following step S905, the measurement start flag is cleared. As a result, the measurement of the number of launched balls and the calculation and output of the number of paid balls are completed. Therefore, in the game times in the limited high-frequency support mode, the fluctuation display ends and the value of the high-frequency game count counter becomes "0", so that the number of launched balls is measured and the number of balls to be paid out is calculated and output. The period to do is over.

In the following step S906, the values of the firing cycle counter HC and the firing ball number counter HN are reset to the initial values "0". This makes it possible to measure from the initial value when the number of launched balls is measured next time.

After that, in step S907, the low frequency command is set as the output target for the voice emission control device 72, and in step S908, the measurement end command is set as the output target for the voice emission control device 72. The voice emission control device 72 determines the effect content on the display screen of the symbol display device 41 based on the received low-frequency command, and executes the effect corresponding to the low-frequency support mode. Further, the received measurement end command is transmitted to the display control device 97 as it is. Based on receiving the measurement end command, the display control device 97 ends the display of the acquired number of balls in the symbol display device 41, and displays the final total number of acquired balls. This process will be described later.

That is, in the present embodiment, the period from the start of the open / close execution mode based on any of the jackpot results to the transition to the low frequency support mode in the limited high frequency support mode game times is fired. It is a period for measuring the number of balls, calculating the number of balls to be paid out, and performing output processing. In addition, during the open / close execution mode, it is set to forcibly shift to the low frequency support mode regardless of the level of the support mode up to that point, but in this transition to the low frequency support mode, the end of the measurement period ends. Not set. Therefore, even during the open / close execution mode based on the jackpot winning during the high frequency support mode, the above-mentioned measurement of the number of launched balls, calculation of the number of payout balls, and output processing are performed.

<Processing in the display control device 97 for displaying the number of payout balls and the number of launch balls>
Next, regarding the total number of acquired balls setting process, which is a process for displaying the acquired number of balls on the symbol display device 41 based on the increase command and the decrease command output from the MPU 92 of the main control device 71, the flowchart of FIG. Will be described with reference to.

Here, each command received from the main control device 71 via the voice emission control device 72 is stored in the command storage area of the work RWM 134 in the display control device 97 by the command storage process started when the command is received. To. The command storage area of the work RWM134 is configured as a ring buffer that can store a plurality of commands individually and can be read from the previously stored command, even if a plurality of commands are received at the same time. The processing corresponding to each of these commands can be executed satisfactorily. In addition, the display control device 97 periodically (for example, 2 msec cycle) confirms which command is being received, and by this confirmation process, an effect corresponding to the game result of each game is performed. It is possible to control the symbol display device 41 to display the effect corresponding to the open / close execution mode. The total number of acquired balls setting process is performed every time the confirmation process of this command is executed.

By the way, in the total number of acquired balls setting process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not "1" is stored in the measurement start flag provided in the work RWM134. The measurement start flag is a flag for specifying in the MPU 132 that it is a period for displaying the total number of acquired balls. If the measurement start flag is not "1", it is determined in the following step S1002 whether or not the current read target is the measurement start command. If a negative determination is made in step S1001 and step S1002, the total number of acquired balls is not displayed, so the process for setting the total number of acquired balls is terminated as it is.

If the measurement start command is received in step S1002, "1" is stored in the measurement start flag in the following step S1003. In the following step S1004, the address information corresponding to the current total number of acquired balls is stored in the storage area of the display pattern address of the work RWM 134 so as to produce the total number of acquired balls as the display content of the symbol display device 41. The current total number of acquired balls is confirmed by referring to the total number of acquired balls counter provided in the work RWM134. The total number of acquired balls counter can be updated in units of "1" in the range of "0" to "9999", for example, and is received during the period from the reception of the measurement start command to the reception of the measurement end command. This is a counter that is updated by the total number of acquired balls addition process and the total number of acquired balls subtraction process, which will be described later, based on the numerical information included in the increase command and the decrease command.

In step S1004, the address information corresponding to the total number of acquired balls counter is stored in the storage area of the display pattern address of the work RWM134, so that the internal command is sent to the VDP135 in the output processing of the internal command (not shown in MPU132). The symbol display device 41 is driven so as to generate and display the total number of acquired balls counter set this time. In this case, the output processing of the internal command is repeatedly started in a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec), and in the output processing of the internal command, the internal command corresponding to the information of the set total number of acquired balls counter is executed. It is generated according to the update of the total number of acquired balls counter, and the generated internal command is output to VDP135. In the VDP 135, the image data is read from the character ROM 136 in response to the internal command, and the read image data is written in the video RWM 137. As a result, the symbol display device 41 performs the production of the total number of acquired balls corresponding to the total number of acquired balls counter.

Here, the total number of acquired balls effect is displayed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41 in front of the effect corresponding to the game state. Specifically, in the open / close execution mode, the effect for the open / close execution mode by the character's symbol or moving image is displayed, and in each game, the effect by the variable display of the symbol is displayed. It is displayed in front of the production of. Therefore, it is possible for the player to identify the current total number of acquired balls even when the effect and the background correspond to the game state.

After executing the process of step S1004, the process of setting the total number of acquired balls is completed.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, the process proceeds to step S1005. In step S1005, it is determined whether or not the read target this time is an increase command or a decrease command. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1005, it is determined in step S1006 whether or not the command is an increase command. In the case of an increase command, in the following step S1007, the total number of acquired balls is added to the total number of acquired balls counter by reading the numerical information of the current total number of acquired balls counter and reading the numerical information included in the increase command. Execute the process. Then, the process proceeds to step S1009. However, when the value of the total number of acquired balls counter is the maximum value "9999", the process proceeds to step S1009 as it is without adding.

If the decrease command is used in step S1006, the process proceeds to step S1008, and the total acquisition is obtained by reading the numerical information of the current total number of acquired balls counter and subtracting the numerical information included in the decrease command from the total number of acquired balls counter. Execute the ball number subtraction process. Then, the process proceeds to step S1009. However, when the value of the total number of acquired balls counter is the initial value "0", the process proceeds to step S1009 as it is without subtraction.

The configuration and update mode of the total number of acquired balls counter are not limited to the above. For example, the number of digits and the update unit are arbitrary, and when the maximum value is reached, the configuration may return to "0". A configuration in which a negative number of balls is displayed by subtracting from the initial value may be used.

In step S1009, the address information corresponding to the total acquired ball count counter is stored in the storage area of the display pattern address based on the processing result of step S1007 or step S1008. As a result, the display of the total number of acquired balls in the symbol display device 41 is updated. After executing the process of step S1009, the process of setting the total number of acquired balls is completed.

If a negative determination is made in step S1005, the process proceeds to step S1010. In step S1010, it is determined whether or not the reading target this time is a measurement end command. If it is not the measurement end command, the total number of acquired balls setting process is terminated. If it is a measurement end command, the measurement start flag is cleared in step S1011. This ends the period in which the total number of acquired balls should be displayed. In the following step S1012, the address information corresponding to the total number of acquired balls end effect is stored in the storage area of the display pattern address of the work RWM134 as an effect of ending the display of the total number of acquired balls. As a result, the display of the total number of acquired balls is completed on the symbol display device 41, and the total number of acquired balls is displayed from the display of the total number of acquired balls so that the player can recognize the finally acquired total number of acquired balls. Is also large, and the final total number of acquired balls is displayed on the entire display screen G. After executing the process of step S1012, the process of setting the total number of acquired balls is terminated.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, the measurement start command is transmitted from the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 when the transition to the open / close execution mode occurs in the first game state transition process, and the measurement end command is issued. , It is transmitted from the MPU 92 when the high frequency support mode ends in the second game state transition process. Therefore, as the period for displaying the total number of acquired balls in the present total number of acquired balls setting process, the variable display of the game times ends after the opening / closing execution mode executed based on any of the jackpot results is started. This is the period until the high-frequency support mode ends.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

The number of launch balls is calculated from the relationship between the period during which the launch conditions of the game ball launch mechanism 51 are satisfied and the launch cycle of the game balls. This makes it possible to measure the number of launched balls by a simple process without requiring a new device or member such as a sensor for detecting the number of launched balls.

The measured number of launched balls is transmitted to the display control device 97 when the game ball enters one of the prize ball entry units. When the game balls are continuously fired, the number of commands to be transmitted increases if the command indicating the launch of the game balls is always transmitted to the display control device 97. On the other hand, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of commands transmitted from the main control device 71 to the display control device 97 by using the ball entering the prize ball entry unit as an opportunity as in this configuration. .. As a result, it is possible to suppress the power consumption required for command output and the consumption of members such as lines.

When a command is transmitted when a game ball enters one of the prize ball entry units, the result of calculation processing between the corresponding number of prize balls and the number of launched balls is transmitted. Therefore, the number of commands to be transmitted can be halved as compared with the configuration in which the command indicating the number of prize balls and the command indicating the number of launched balls are transmitted respectively.

In particular, in the present embodiment, when the corresponding number of prize balls is equal to or greater than the number of launch balls, an increase command obtained by subtracting the number of launch balls from the number of prize balls is transmitted, and the number of launch balls is larger than the number of prize balls. In this case, a reduction command obtained by subtracting the number of prize balls from the number of launched balls is transmitted, and the display control device 97 recalculates the numerical information based on each command to calculate the total number of acquired balls. Therefore, as compared with the configuration in which one control device performs arithmetic processing up to the total number of acquired balls, the arithmetic processing is shared by the two control devices, so that the processing load on each control device can be reduced. It becomes.

<Second embodiment>
This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the total number of acquired balls setting process. Hereinafter, different configurations will be described.

Although not shown, in the total acquired ball number setting process in the present embodiment, the subtraction process (step S1008) from the total acquired ball number counter is not executed when the decrease command is received. Instead, a process of adding the numerical information included in the received subtraction command to the subtraction counter provided separately from the total number of acquired balls counter in the work RWM134 of the display control device 97 is executed.

Further, in the addition process (step S1007) when the increase command is received, after comparing the value of the subtraction counter with the numerical information of the increase command, if the numerical information of the increase command is equal to or greater than the value of the subtraction counter, , Subtract the value of the subtraction counter from the numerical information of the increase command, and add the result to the total number of acquired balls counter. Further, in this case, the subtraction counter is cleared to "0". On the other hand, when the value of the subtraction counter is larger than the numerical information of the increase command, the numerical information of the increase command is subtracted from the value of the subtraction counter, and the result is input to the subtraction counter for updating.

That is, in the addition process (step S1007) in the present embodiment, the value obtained by subtracting the subtraction counter is added to the total number of acquired balls counter, or the increase command is subtracted from the subtraction counter.

Further, when setting the final display effect of the total number of acquired balls in step S1012, the numerical information of the subtraction counter is subtracted from the total number of acquired balls counter, and the total number of acquired balls corresponding to the subtracted total number of acquired balls counter. Perform a number display.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the value of the total number of acquired balls counter may decrease in the final display effect of the total number of acquired balls, but in the midway total number of acquired balls effect, the total number of acquired balls is reduced. It will not decrease.

Here, the production of the total number of acquired balls of the symbol display device 41 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 19 (a-1) to 19 (a-3) are timing charts showing the occurrence status of winning in each prize ball entry section, and FIG. 19 (a-1) shows the large winning opening 32a. 19 (a-2) shows the occurrence status of the prizes in the general prize opening 31, and FIG. 19 (a-3) shows the occurrence status of the prizes in the operating ports 33 and 34. ing. Further, FIGS. 19 (b-1) to 19 (b-5) indicate that the ball enters the entry section for each prize ball at each timing of FIGS. 19 (a-1) to 19 (a-3). The number of payout balls based on the number of balls, the numerical information included in each command for calculating and transmitting the number of payout balls and the number of launched balls counter HN, and each counter calculated based on each command received by the display control device 97 will be described. It is explanatory drawing to be done. Further, FIGS. 19 (c-1) to 19 (c-5) show the total acquisition balls on the display screen G of the symbol display device 41 at each timing of FIGS. 19 (a-1) to 19 (a-3). It is explanatory drawing which shows the numerical effect.

When the measurement of the number of launched balls and the calculation and output of the number of balls to be paid out are started and a game ball is won in the large winning opening 32a at the timing of t1, 15 balls are won as shown in FIG. 19 (b-1). Prize balls will be paid out. In this case, for example, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is "10", the number of payout balls "15" is larger than the value "10" of the launch ball counter HN, so the number of launch balls is calculated from the number of payout balls. The value "5" obtained by subtracting the value of the counter is input to the increase command and transmitted. The display control device 97 that has received the increase command adds "5" to the total number of acquired balls counter, and updates and sets the total number of acquired balls effect in the symbol display device 41. Then, as shown in FIG. 19 (c-1), the total number of acquired balls is displayed as "00005" on the display screen G.

Subsequently, when a game ball is won in the general winning opening 31 at the timing of t2, 10 prize balls are paid out as shown in FIG. 19 (b-2). In this case, for example, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is "3", the payout ball number "10" is larger than the launch ball counter HN value "3", so the number of launch balls is calculated from the payout ball number. The value "7" obtained by subtracting the value of the counter is input to the increase command and transmitted. The display control device 97 that has received the increase command adds "7" to the total number of acquired balls counter, sets the value of the total number of acquired balls counter to "12", and updates and sets the total number of acquired balls effect in the symbol display device 41. To do. Then, as shown in FIG. 19 (c-2), the total number of acquired balls is displayed as "00012" on the display screen G.

Subsequently, when a game ball is won in any of the operating ports 33 and 34 at the timing of t3, three prize balls are paid out as shown in FIG. 19 (b-3). In this case, for example, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is "13", the payout ball number "3" is smaller than the launch ball counter HN value "13", so that the launch ball counter HN value. The value "10" obtained by subtracting the number of payout balls from is input to the decrease command and transmitted. The display control device 97 that has received the subtraction command adds "10" to the subtraction counter instead of the total number of acquired balls counter. In this case, since the value of the total number of acquired balls counter remains “12”, the total number of acquired balls does not change from “00012” on the display screen G as shown in FIG. 19 (c-3).

Subsequently, when a game ball is won in the large winning opening 32a at the timing of t4, 15 prize balls are paid out as shown in FIG. 19 (b-4). In this case, for example, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is "3", the payout ball number "15" is larger than the launch ball counter HN value "3", so the number of launch balls is calculated from the payout ball number. The value "12" obtained by subtracting the value of the counter is input to the increase command and transmitted. The display control device 97 that has received the increase command compares the value "10" of the subtraction counter with the numerical information "12" of the increase command, and since the numerical information of the increase command is larger, the numerical information "12" of the increase command. The value "10" of the subtraction counter is subtracted from "", and the result "2" is added to the total number of acquired balls counter. As a result, the total number of acquired balls counter becomes "14", and as shown in FIG. 19 (c-4), the total number of acquired balls is displayed as "00014" on the display screen G. In this case, the subtraction counter is cleared to "0".

After that, at the timing of t5, the period of calculating the number of launched balls and calculating and outputting the number of balls to be paid out ends, the measurement end command is output, and as shown in FIG. 19 (b-5), for example, the total in this situation. If the value of the acquired ball count counter is "2042" and the value of the subtraction counter is "2", the value of the subtraction counter is subtracted from the value of the total acquired ball count counter, and the value of the total acquired ball count counter is set to "2". After setting "2040", the final display effect of the total number of acquired balls is performed as shown in FIG. 19 (c-2).

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

When the display control device 97 receives the subtraction command, the subtraction process is not performed from the total number of acquired balls counter, and the numerical information included in the subtraction command is added to the separately provided subtraction counter, and the final total is obtained. When the display effect of the number of acquired balls is executed, the value of the subtraction counter is subtracted from the value of the total number of acquired balls counter to display the total number of acquired balls. As a result, although the total number of acquired balls may increase in the production of the total number of acquired balls, it does not decrease in the middle. In the pachinko machine, the ball ejection rate is set by adjusting the nail 38 or the like of the game board 24, and the frequency of entering the prize ball entry portion is determined in relation to the adjusted nail 38 or the like. Therefore, regardless of the firing operation of the player, it is possible that the ball entering the prize ball entry portion does not occur frequently. In this case, if the number of shot balls in the display is subtracted, the player will feel a sense of loss because it will be clearly expressed that no ball has entered, and even if it is interesting in other productions. In addition, if the balls are not frequently entered, not only will the prize balls not be obtained by that amount, but also the chances of an internal lottery will be reduced, so that the degree of attention to the game will be extremely reduced. On the other hand, unlike this configuration, the number of launched balls is measured and the total number of acquired balls is displayed, but the total number of acquired balls is not reduced, so that the above-mentioned feeling of loss is not given. , It does not reduce the degree of attention.

<Third embodiment>
This embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the configuration of the net increase ball count calculation process and the configuration of the total acquired ball count setting process in the display control device 97. Hereinafter, different configurations will be described.

First, in the present embodiment, the processes related to the start and end of the measurement period in the first game state transition process (FIG. 16) and the second game state transition process (FIG. 17) are not executed. Specifically, in the first game state transition process, the processes of steps S804 and S805 are not executed, and in the second game state transition process, the processes of steps S905 and S908 are not executed.

Further, the process of resetting the firing cycle counter HC and the number of launched balls counter HN to "0" in the second game state transition process (step S906) is the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode in the first game state transition process (step S906). It is executed in step S812).

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the measurement of the number of launched balls, the calculation of the number of paid balls, and the output are performed in the open / close execution mode.

The net increase sphere number calculation process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

As described above, since the measurement of the number of launched balls and the calculation and output of the number of payout balls are performed in the open / close execution mode, the net increase ball number calculation process in the present embodiment first opens / closes in step S1101. Determine if it is in execution mode. If it is not in the open / close execution mode, the net increase ball count calculation process is terminated as it is. When the opening / closing execution mode is in progress, the processing related to the calculation and output of the number of launched balls and the number of payout balls in steps S1102 to S1116 is executed.

In the processing related to the calculation and output of the number of launched balls and the number of payout balls, each of them is based on the results of the comparison processing (step S1104, step S1109, step S1113) of the number of launched balls counter HN and the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball counter. The treatment is different from the first embodiment.

That is, in the present embodiment, when it is determined in step S1104 that the value of the launch ball counter HN is "15" or less, the value of the launch ball counter HN is subtracted from "15" in step S1105. Numerical information is input to the increase command and set as an output target, and then the value of the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0" in step S1106, and the net increase ball count calculation process is completed. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1104, a process of updating the launch ball counter HN to a value obtained by subtracting "15" from the launch ball counter HN is executed in step S1107, and then this net increase in the number of balls is executed. End the arithmetic processing.

If it is determined in step S1109 that the value of the launch ball counter HN is "10" or less, the numerical information obtained by subtracting the value of the launch ball counter HN from "10" in step S1110 is input to the increase command. Then, the value of the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0" in step S1111 to end the net increase ball count calculation process. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1109, a process of updating the launch ball counter HN to a value obtained by subtracting "10" from the launch ball counter HN is executed in step S1112, and then the net increase ball count is executed. End the arithmetic processing.

Then, when it is determined in step S1113 that the value of the launch ball counter HN is "3" or less, the numerical information obtained by subtracting the value of the launch ball counter HN from "3" in step S1114 is input to the increase command. Then, the value of the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0" in step S1115, and the net increase ball count calculation process is completed. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1113, a process of updating the launch ball counter HN to a value obtained by subtracting "3" from the launch ball counter HN is executed in step S1116, and then this net increase in the number of balls is executed. End the arithmetic processing.

The processing of the other processing (step S1102, step S1103 and step S1108) is the same as the processing of step S702, step S703 and step S707 in the first embodiment.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in each comparison process between the value of the launch ball counter HN and the prize ball number corresponding to the prize ball counter, the value of the launch ball counter HN is equal to or less than the corresponding prize ball number. Is set as an output target, and when the value of the launch ball counter HN is larger than the corresponding prize ball number, the launch ball counter HN is subtracted and updated accordingly. That is, the reduction command in the first and second embodiments is not transmitted.

Next, the process of setting the total number of acquired balls of the display control device 97 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the total number of acquired balls setting process of the present embodiment, it is determined in step S1201 whether the measurement start flag is stored, as in the first and second embodiments. When the measurement start flag is not stored, unlike the first and second embodiments, in step S1202, it is determined whether or not the read target this time is the opening command.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1202, "1" is stored in the measurement start flag in step S1203 and the total number of acquired balls is set in step S1204, as in the first and second embodiments. To do. If a negative determination is made in step S1202, or after the process of step S1204 is executed, the total number of acquired balls setting process is terminated.

When an affirmative determination is made in step S1201, it is determined whether or not the read target this time is an increase command, unlike the first and second embodiments. If it is an increase command, a process of adding the numerical information included in the increase command to the total number of acquired balls counter is executed in step S1206, and then in step S1207, the total number of acquired balls is based on the processing result of step S1206. The number effect is set, and then the total number of acquired balls setting process is completed.

On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S1205, unlike the first and second embodiments, in step S1208, it is determined whether or not the reading target this time is an ending command.

If a negative determination is made in step S1208, the total number of acquired balls setting process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1208, the measurement start flag is deleted in step S1209 as in the first and second embodiments. In the following step S1210, the display of the total number of acquired balls is finished, and the effect of the final total number of acquired balls is set.

Although not shown here, in the ending command setting process (step S813) of the first game state transition process (FIG. 16) in the present embodiment, the numerical information of the launch ball counter HN is input to the ending command. Set as an output target. That is, the ending command confirmed in step S1208 includes information on the number of launched balls that is not set as an output target as an increase command in the net increase ball number calculation process (FIG. 20). In step S1210, after subtracting the numerical information of the number of launched balls included in the ending command from the total number of launched balls counter, it is set to display the finally acquired total number of acquired balls. After executing the process of step S1210, the process of setting the total number of acquired balls is terminated.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the display control device 97 starts displaying the total number of acquired balls using the opening command as an index instead of the measurement start command, and uses the ending command as an index instead of the measurement end command to start displaying the total number of acquired balls. Is configured to end the display of.

Further, since the subtraction command is not received, the total number of acquired balls counter is updated only by addition and not by subtraction until the ending command is received.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

In the net increase ball number calculation process (FIG. 20), when the number of fired balls is larger than the number of prize balls, the number of prize balls is subtracted from the number of fired balls to update the number of fired balls. Further, the display control device 97 is configured to produce the total number of acquired balls by using the opening command and the ending command as indexes without transmitting the measurement start command and the measurement end command. As a result, it is not necessary to output the reduction command, the measurement start command, and the measurement end command, and it is possible to reduce the types of commands to be set. Further, since the display control device 97 does not receive the decrease command, it is not necessary to perform a process of determining whether the command is an increase command or a decrease command or a subtraction process based on the decrease command, and the processing load on the display control device 97 can be reduced. Is possible.

Due to the configuration that does not send the decrease command, only the update that increases the total number of acquired balls is performed in the production of the total number of acquired balls. Further, since the number of launched balls is updated as described above, the increase command is not transmitted until the value of the number of launched balls counter HN becomes larger than the number of prize balls. Therefore, as described in the second embodiment, while preventing the harmful effect of reducing the display of the total number of acquired balls, the output frequency of the increase command is reduced, and conversely, the increase command is transmitted and the total acquisition is performed. The player feels a sense of accomplishment as the display of the number of balls increases.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the configuration regarding the output setting of the number of launched balls and the number of payout balls is different from that of the first to third embodiments. Hereinafter, different configurations will be described. Incidentally, in the present embodiment, as in the third embodiment, the total number of acquired balls is displayed in the open / close execution mode. Therefore, the measurement start command and the measurement end command are not transmitted, and the display control device 97 executes the total number of acquired balls setting process using the opening command and the ending command as indexes.

First, the configuration related to the output setting of the number of launch balls will be described.

In this embodiment, the number of launched balls is not output by using the increase command or the decrease command in each of the above embodiments. That is, in the present embodiment, the net increase sphere number calculation process is not executed. On the other hand, as in the first to third embodiments, the number of launched balls is measured on the condition that the measurement start flag is stored in the number of launched balls measurement process. Then, when setting the measured number of fired balls as the output target in step S813 of the first game state transition process (FIG. 16), the numerical information of the number of fired balls counter HN is input to the ending command. The information is transmitted to the display control device 97 through the voice emission control device 72.

Next, the configuration related to the output setting of the number of payout balls will be described.

In the present embodiment, the output of the number of payout balls to the display control device 97 is performed in the payout output process of step S219 in the timer interrupt process (FIG. 9).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a payout output process in the present embodiment.

First, in step S1301, it is determined whether or not the front door frame 14 is open, and in the subsequent step S1302, it is determined whether or not the payout is in an abnormal state. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1301 or step S1302, it is not the timing to execute the payout of the prize ball, so the main payout output process is terminated as it is. Incidentally, the payout abnormal state in step S1302 is a case where the ball tray such as the lower plate 62a is full of game balls, or a case where the tank 76 is in a ballless state.

When a negative determination is made in step S1301 and step S1302, it is determined in step S1303 whether or not the value of any of the prize ball counters is "1" or more. If any of the prize ball counters is "0", the main payout output process is terminated as it is. If any of the prize ball counters is "1" or more, the process proceeds to step S1304.

In step S1304, the output of the prize ball command is set for the payout control device 78. In the output setting of the prize ball command for the payout control device 78, when the 15 prize ball counter is "1" or more, the 15 prize ball commands instructing the payout of 15 game balls are read from the ROM 93 and output. Set as a target. When the 15 prize ball counter is "0" and the 10 prize ball counter is "1" or more, the 10 prize ball command instructing the payout of 10 game balls is read from the ROM 93 and output. Set to. If both the 15-prize ball counter and the 10-prize ball counter are "0" and the 3-prize ball counter is "1" or more, the 3-prize ball instructing the payout of 3 game balls Read the command from ROM 93 and set it as the output target.

In the following step S1305, any prize ball command read from the ROM 93 in step S1304 is set as it is as an output target for the voice emission control device 72. That is, when the 15 prize ball commands are read from the ROM 93 in step S1304, the 15 prize ball commands are output to the voice emission control device 72 in step S1305, and the 10 prize ball commands are issued in step S1304. When reading from the ROM 93, the 10 prize ball commands are output to the voice emission control device 72 in step S1305, and when the 3 prize ball commands are read from the ROM 93 in step S1304, the 10 prize ball commands are output in step S1305. The three prize ball commands are output to the voice emission control device 72.

After executing the process of step S1305, the present payout output process is terminated.

The voice emission control device 72 that has received each prize ball command transmits the prize ball command to the display control device 97 as it is. The display control device 97 performs addition processing of the total number of acquired balls counter based on receiving the prize ball command. That is, in step S1205 of the total number of acquired balls setting process (FIG. 21) in the present embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not any prize ball command is received, and one of the prize ball commands is received. If so, the number of prize balls corresponding to each prize ball command is added to the total number of acquired balls counter in step S1206. That is, when the 15 prize ball command is received, the process of adding "15" to the total number of acquired balls counter is executed, and when the 10 prize ball command is received, "15" is added to the total number of acquired balls counter. The process of adding "10" is executed, and when the three prize ball commands are received, the process of adding "3" to the total number of acquired balls counter is executed. After that, in step S1206, the address information corresponding to the total number of acquired balls counter that was added in step S1205 is stored in the storage area of the display pattern address, and the display of the total number of acquired balls on the symbol display device 41 is updated. To do.

Further, as described above, the ending command includes the numerical information of the launch ball counter HN, and in step S1210 of the total acquired ball number setting process (FIG. 21) in the present embodiment, the third embodiment is described above. Similarly, after subtracting the numerical information of the number of launched balls included in the ending command from the total number of launched balls counter, it is set to display the finally acquired total number of acquired balls.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the display of the total number of acquired balls on the symbol display device 41 is increased by the amount of the prize balls based on the reception of each prize ball command, and the total acquisition is based on the reception of the ending command. The display of the number of balls is reduced by the number of launched balls.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

The number of launched balls is input to the ending command and transmitted, and the number of paid balls is transmitted by the prize ball command. As a result, it is not necessary to store a new command when measuring the number of launched balls or calculating with the number of payout balls, and it is possible to reduce the capacity of the ROM 93.

In addition, the number of balls displayed in the direction of the total number of acquired balls in the middle is configured to increase by the number of prize balls without considering the number of launched balls, and the total number of launched balls is collectively when the ending command is finally received. It is configured to be subtracted from the total number of acquired balls counter. As a result, the number of balls displayed in the total number of acquired balls is not reduced in the middle, so that the player does not feel lost, and the number of balls displayed is increased by the number of prize balls that do not subtract the number of launched balls. As a result, the speed of increase in the number of balls is increased as compared with each of the above-described embodiments, and it is possible to give the player an uplifting feeling for obtaining a prize ball.

In this configuration, the value of the total number of acquired balls counter is the total number of balls to be paid out. However, when the ending command is received, the number of launched balls is not subtracted, and the number of balls to be paid out is displayed on the symbol display device 41. It is also possible to display the total number and the total number of launched balls separately. In this case, the player can obtain a sense of satisfaction by displaying a larger number of payout balls while recognizing the total number of acquired balls.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the configuration of the net increase sphere number calculation process is different from that of the first to fourth embodiments. Hereinafter, different configurations will be described. In the present embodiment, as in the fourth embodiment, when the prize ball command is transmitted to the payout control device 78, the same prize ball command is transmitted to the voice emission control device 72. ..

The net increase sphere number calculation process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S1401, it is determined whether or not the measurement start flag is stored, and if the measurement start flag is not stored, the net increase ball count calculation process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1401, it is determined in step S1402 whether or not the launch ball counter HN is "10" or more. If it is "10" or more, the value of the launch ball counter HN is directly input to the decrease command in the following step S1403, and is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. Upon receiving the decrease command, the voice emission control device 72 transmits the command to the display control device 97 as it is.

If a negative determination is made in step S1402, the net increase ball count calculation process is terminated as it is. After executing the process of step S1403, the launch ball number counter HN is cleared to "0" in step S1404, and the net increase ball number calculation process is completed.

The display control device 97 that has received the subtraction command adds the numerical information included in the subtraction command to the subtraction counter and sets the final display effect of the total number of acquired balls, as in the second embodiment. The value of the subtraction counter is subtracted from the total number of acquired balls counter to set the display.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

The decrease command is transmitted when the number of launched balls reaches a predetermined number (10 in the present embodiment). As a result, the process of confirming the result of the winning determination becomes unnecessary, and the processing load can be reduced.

The value of the launch ball counter HN that triggers the transmission of the decrease command is arbitrary, and may be more or less than "10". However, from the viewpoint of reducing the number of times the decrease command is transmitted, it is desirable that the number is at least "2" or more.

In this configuration, the value of the total number of acquired balls counter is the total number of balls to be paid out, and the value of the subtraction counter is the total number of launched balls. However, it is also possible to display each total number separately on the symbol display device 41. Is.

<Sixth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, a novel game different from the conventional game is realized by using the measurement result of the number of launched balls. The configuration will be described below.

Here, first, in the present embodiment, the measurement of the number of launched balls is not a configuration in which the number of launched balls is added to the number of launched balls counter HN as in the first to fifth embodiments, but the number of launched balls counter HN. The configuration is such that subtraction processing is performed from. That is, in step S405 of the launch ball number measurement process (FIG. 11) in the present embodiment, a process of subtracting "1" from the launch ball counter HN is executed. Further, in the present embodiment, the number of balls to be paid out is not measured. That is, the increase command and the decrease command in the first to fifth embodiments are not transmitted, and only the measurement result of the number of launched balls is used to realize a novel game different from the conventional game.

Further, in the present embodiment, the measurement start flag and the measurement start command are not set in steps S804 and S805 in the first game state transition process (FIG. 16), and the transition at the end of the open / close execution mode in step S812 is performed. It is done by processing.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode in the present embodiment.

First, in step S1501, it is determined whether or not the game result that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time was a probability variation jackpot result. If it is a probability variation jackpot result, "1" is stored in the high probability mode flag of RWM94 in step S1502, and "1" is stored in the high frequency support mode flag of RWM94 in subsequent step S1503. As a result, the high probability mode and the high frequency support mode are set. In the following step S1504, a high-frequency command is set as an output target to the voice emission control device 72. The voice emission control device 72 controls each device so as to perform an effect corresponding to the high frequency support mode by receiving the high frequency command. After executing the process of step S1504, the transition process at the end of the main open / close execution mode ends.

If a negative determination is made in step S1501, that is, if the game result that triggered the opening / closing execution mode this time is a normal jackpot result, the process proceeds to step S1505. In step S1505, the high probability mode flag is cleared. This sets the low probability mode. In the following step S1506, "1" is stored in the high frequency support flag, and in the following step S1507, a process of adding "1000" to the launch ball counter HN is executed. That is, in the present embodiment, the launch ball counter HN is subtracted by "1" in the launch ball count measurement process, while "1000" is added in the transition process at the end of the open / close execution mode.

After executing the process of step S1507, "1" is stored in the launch ball number limit flag provided in the RWM 94 in the subsequent step S1508. The launch ball number limit flag is a flag for specifying in the MPU 92 that the high frequency support mode this time is a high frequency support mode with a launch ball number limit. The high-frequency support mode with a limited number of launch balls is a high-frequency support mode that continues until the value of the launch ball counter HN becomes “0”.

The value of the launch ball counter HN set in step S1507 is arbitrary, and may be a process of updating to "1000" instead of adding "1000".

After executing the process of step S1508, "1" is stored in the measurement start flag in step S1509. As a result, the measurement of the number of launched balls in the RWM94 is started.

Next, the second game state transition process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the second game state transition process in the present embodiment, first, in step S1601, it is determined whether or not the high frequency support mode is used. In the high frequency support mode, it is determined in the following step S1602 whether the launch ball counter HN is “0”. When the number of launch balls counter HN is "0", it is determined in the following step S1603 whether the number of launch balls limit flag is stored. If a negative determination is made in any of steps S1601 to S1603, the second game state transition process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, in the case of high frequency support with a limit on the number of launch balls and the number of launch balls counter HN is "0", the number of launch balls limit flag is cleared in step S1604, and the frequency is high in the following step S1605. Clear the support flag. This sets the low frequency support mode. In the following step S1606, the measurement start flag is cleared. This completes the measurement of the number of launched balls. In the following step S1607, the value of the firing cycle counter HC is reset to "0", and in the following step S1608, the low frequency command is set as the output target, and the second game state transition process is completed.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

In the launch ball count measurement process, the process of subtracting "1" from the launch ball counter HN is executed on the condition that the launch permission condition is satisfied and the launch cycle counter HC is "0". The predetermined high-frequency support mode is configured to shift to the low-frequency support mode when the value of the launch ball counter HN becomes "0". This makes it possible to make the high-frequency support mode a new game in which the number of shot balls is used instead of the number of game times. In particular, also in the present embodiment, since the number of launched balls is measured based on the relationship between the launch cycle and the launch permission condition, a sensor or the like is added in order to realize a new game as described above. It is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine without the need for it.

In the present embodiment, the increase command and the decrease command are not transmitted to the voice emission control device 72, and the number of fired balls is not displayed on the symbol display device 41. However, the number of fired balls is displayed. May be good.

Further, the number of prize balls may be added to the number of launched balls counter HN based on the number of balls entering the prize ball entry unit. Since the increase / decrease in the number of balls held is small in the high frequency support mode, it is expected that the increase / decrease in the value of the number of launched balls counter HN in the high frequency support mode is also small in this configuration. Therefore, it is possible to realize a high-frequency support mode with substantially no limit while determining the continuity of the high-frequency support mode by limiting the number of shot balls instead of the number of game times. From this point of view, in the high frequency support mode based on the probability variation jackpot result, the value of the launch ball counter HN is increased by the number of prize balls based on the entry into the prize ball entry section, and the high frequency based on the normal jackpot result is obtained. In the support mode, the value of the launch ball counter HN may not be increased even if a ball enters the prize ball entry portion.

Further, in each of the above configurations, the limitation on the number of launching balls may be added to the continuation condition of the high probability mode instead of or in addition to the configuration in which the limitation on the number of launching balls is realized in the high frequency support mode.

<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. Incidentally, 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, each of the following configurations may be applied to an embodiment other than the embodiment exemplified as an application target.

(1) The launch conditions on the power supply and launch control device 79 side are not limited to the above conditions. That is, the configuration may not include any of the signals from the touch sensor 55a, the ball stop switch 55b, and the ball lending device Y, or may be configured to include other conditions. In addition, the firing conditions may be satisfied under conditions different from these, for example, operating a button or lever, touching a predetermined sensor, inputting a signal permitting firing, or the like, at least from the player to the gaming machine. It suffices if the firing conditions are satisfied by the addition of the command.

(2) The launch permission conditions on the main control device 71 side are not limited to the above conditions. That is, the configuration may include other conditions in addition to the game stop due to the fraud detection process, or the launch permission condition may be satisfied under conditions different from the game stop due to the fraud detection process. Further, when the firing conditions on the power supply and the firing control device 79 side are satisfied, the firing may be unconditionally permitted.

(3) As a configuration in which the same information as each command regarding the number of launching balls and the number of payout balls transmitted to the display control device 97 through the voice emission control device 72 is output externally from the main control device 71 to the Hall Island equipment. May be good. In this case, the main control device 71 is provided with an external output terminal, and indicates the type of each command (increase command, decrease command, prize ball command, ending command) indicating the relationship between the number of shot balls and the number of payout balls from the output terminal. It is preferable to transmit the start signal and transmit the number of spheres by the pulse signal. Specifically, in the first, second, and fifth embodiments, each start signal is transmitted so that the increase command (or prize ball command) and the decrease command can be identified, and the first In the third and fourth embodiments, each start signal is transmitted so that the increase command (or prize ball command) and the ending can be identified, and then the numerical information included in each command is pulsed accordingly. It is good to output as. Further, in these cases, instead of the configuration of transmitting the start signal that can be identified, a plurality of the above-mentioned external output terminals may be provided, and the corresponding numerical information may be output as a pulse signal at each terminal.

(4) The number of acquired balls is displayed on the symbol display device 41, but the present invention is not limited to this. At least, the configuration may be such that the number of acquired balls is output from the main control device 71 to the outside. For example, the number of acquired balls may be displayed in the Hall Island facility, or a separate display device may be provided to display the number of acquired balls on the display device. Good.

(5) In the first to third embodiments described above, the calculation process is executed with reference to the prize ball counter, but a calculation counter may be separately provided for each prize ball entry unit. Good. In this configuration, when the corresponding arithmetic counter is referred to and an increase command or a decrease command is set, it is preferable to add a process of subtracting "1" from the referenced arithmetic counter.

In this case, in each comparison process between the value of the launch ball counter HN and the prize ball number corresponding to the prize ball counter, the value of the launch ball counter HN and the prize ball number corresponding to the prize ball counter are the same value. In some cases, it is possible to configure the configuration so that the increase command is not sent. That is, in the comparison process between the value of the launch ball counter HN and the number of prize balls corresponding to the 15 prize ball counters, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is 15, the 15 counters for calculation are set to "1". In the process of subtracting and clearing the launch ball counter HN to "0" and comparing the value of the launch ball counter HN with the number of prize balls corresponding to the 10 prize ball counters, the value of the launch ball counter HN is 10. If, the 10 calculation counters are subtracted by "1" and the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0", and the value of the launch ball counter HN and the number of prize balls corresponding to the three prize ball counters are obtained. In the comparison process of, when the value of the launch ball counter HN is 3, the three calculation counters are subtracted by "1" and the launch ball counter HN is cleared to "0". In these cases, the increase command is used. It is preferable to configure it so that it does not send. This makes it possible to reduce the frequency with which the increase command is output.

In this case, in the comparison process between the number of launched balls counter HN and the number of prize balls of the calculation counter, if the reference ball counter is "2" or more, the number of prize balls of the corresponding calculation counter is used. After performing the arithmetic processing for multiplying the counter value, the firing ball number counter HN and the arithmetic value may be compared, and then the arithmetic counter may be cleared to “0”. As a result, if a plurality of balls are entered in the same prize ball entry section while the timer interrupt process is executed once, the increase command or subtraction command to be transmitted can be aggregated into one. It will be possible.

(6) In the first to third embodiments, the trigger for outputting the number of launched balls and the like is triggered by the entry of a game ball into any of the prize ball entry portions, and in the fourth embodiment. With the end of the open / close execution mode as an opportunity, in the fifth embodiment, the number of shots becomes a predetermined number (10 pieces) or more, but the output frequency is not limited to this, and the output frequency such as the number of shot balls is increased. From the viewpoint of reducing the number of shot balls, the frequency of output such as the number of shot balls should be at least less than the frequency of firing game balls. For example, a loop counter that circulates in a cycle longer than the firing cycle of the game ball may be provided, and the number of launched balls or the like may be output when the loop counter reaches a predetermined value.

(7) The trigger for outputting the number of launched balls or the like may be a configuration in which a part of the prize ball entry portion is used as a trigger, and the large winning openings 32a, the operating openings 33, 34, and the general winning openings 31 may be used. The configuration may be triggered by entering one of the prize ball entry sections. In addition, the configuration may be triggered by winning a prize in an opening (through gate 35 in each of the above embodiments) without a prize ball. Further, the gaming machine may be provided with an operation unit that can be operated by the player, and the operation unit may be operated by the player as an opportunity.

(8) The period for measuring the number of launching balls and calculating and outputting the number of payout balls is not limited to each of the above embodiments and is arbitrary. For example, it may be configured to measure, calculate and output from the time when the power of the gaming machine is turned on to the time when the power is turned off, or it may be configured so that the start and end of the measurement, calculation and output can be determined by the operation by the player. Further, a counter for counting the measurement period may be provided, and measurement, calculation and output may be performed until the counter reaches a predetermined value.

In addition to the game results in each of the above embodiments, a predetermined game result may be included, and measurement, calculation, and output may be started even for the predetermined game result. In the case of the predetermined game result. May be configured to continue measurement, calculation and output, and may be configured to end measurement, calculation and output in the case of the predetermined game result. For example, as an mode of opening / closing control of the variable winning device 32 in the opening / closing execution mode, a configuration including a low-frequency winning mode in which winning of the large winning opening 32a in one round game cannot be expected for the maximum number of round games is included. As a result of the game in which the opening / closing execution mode is performed in the low-frequency winning mode, the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the high-probability mode and the support mode is maintained in the previous mode after the opening / closing execution mode ends. (Unspecified high-probability game result or latent probability change state) or explicit probability change jackpot result (explicit high-probability game result or suddenly) in which the winning / losing lottery mode becomes the high-probability mode and the support mode becomes the high-frequency support mode. Probability change state) and special out-of-order results (small hit results) in which the winning / failing lottery mode and support mode are maintained in the previous modes are provided, and in the case of these game results, the number of launched balls is measured and paid out. It may be configured to start, continue or end the calculation and output with the number of balls. In particular, even in the case of the explicit probability variation jackpot result, the configuration for starting the calculation and output of the number of launched balls and the number of payout balls, the explicit probability variation jackpot result, the explicit probability variation jackpot result, or the special deviation result In this case, assuming that the measurement of the number of launched balls and the calculation and output of the number of balls to be paid out are continued, the number of balls to be launched and the number of balls to be paid out are calculated in accordance with the period of the jackpot consecutive villa in the pachinko machine 10. And output, which is preferable.

In these cases, it is preferable that the measurement start flag is stored and the measurement start command is set at the start of measurement, and the measurement start flag is deleted and the measurement end command is set at the end of measurement.

(9) From the viewpoint of reducing the number of commands required to output the number of launched balls, the method for measuring the number of launched balls is not limited to the above configuration, and a separate sensor may be provided for measurement. In this case, the value of the launch ball counter HN may be added or subtracted depending on the detection state of the sensor.

(10) The measurement of the number of launching balls executed by the main control device 71 in each of the above embodiments may be executed by another control device. For example, when the launch permission condition is satisfied and when the launch permission condition is not satisfied, the information is transmitted as a command to the display control device 97, and the display control device 97 sets the firing cycle. The number of fired balls may be calculated from the period for which the condition is satisfied. In this case, the number of commands transmitted from the main control device 71 can be reduced.

(11) In the first to third embodiments, the total number of balls to be paid out and the total number of balls to be launched may be displayed separately as the final display of the total number of acquired balls. In this case, for example, the numerical information of the launch ball counter HN before the arithmetic processing is separately input to each command regarding the number of launch balls or the number of payout balls transmitted from the main control device 71, and the display control device 97 separately inputs the numerical information of the launch balls from the command. By reading the numerical information of the number counter HN and adding the read numerical information to the total number of launched balls counter provided separately from the total acquired ball number counter, the display control device 97 can specify the total number of launched balls. It will be possible. Then, by adding the value of the total number of launched balls counter to the total number of acquired balls counter, it is possible to specify the total number of balls to be paid out, and the total number of launched balls and the total number of balls to be paid out can be displayed separately. it can.

From the viewpoint of displaying the number of payout balls and the number of launched balls in an identifiable manner to the player, the total number of payout balls and the total number of launched balls are displayed not only when the final total number of acquired balls is displayed, but also the total number of acquired balls. It may be configured to be displayed in place of or in addition to the number of balls effect.

(12) The firing cycle counter HC is configured to be reset to the initial value when the firing permitted state is released or when the measurement of the number of firing balls is finished, but it is reset in any case or in any case. Instead, it may be configured to add from the continuation at the next measurement.

(13) In the third embodiment, the numerical information of the launch ball counter HN is input to the ending command, but it may not be input. Even in this case, the ending command is transmitted at the end of the open / close execution mode, but if at least the open / close execution mode ends based on the number of winnings to the large winning opening 32a, the final Since the increase command is sent when the prize is won, it is unlikely that there will be a difference between the actual total number of acquisitions and the display. In addition, since the large winning opening 32a is frequently won in the open / close execution mode, the value of the launch ball counter HN is unlikely to be larger than "15", so that there is a difference between the actual total number of acquisitions and the display. Is also considered to be a slight difference.

(14) The output of the number of payout balls may be output after the payout control device 78 pays out the prize balls. Specifically, the display control device 97 displays the number of balls actually paid out by the main control device 71 based on the payout end information transmitted to the main control device 71 after the payout control device 78 executes the payout of the prize balls. It may be configured to be transmitted to, or may be configured to be transmitted after the number of balls paid out and the number of launched balls are calculated and processed.

(15) The main control device 71 outputs the number of payout balls to the display control device 97, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the payout control device 78 and the display control device 97 may be electrically connected so that the payout control device 78 outputs the number of payout balls to the display control device 97.

(16) Although the total number of acquired balls is set based on each command received by the display control device 97, the voice emission control device 72 may set the total number of acquired balls. In this case, the information corresponding to the total number of acquired balls counter set by the voice emission control device 72 is transmitted to the display control device 97, and the display control device 97 fires at the symbol display device 41 based on the received information. It is preferable to have a configuration in which the number of balls and the like are displayed.

(17) A sensor for detecting the return ball from the launch rail 52 may be provided, and may be added or subtracted from the value of the launch ball counter HN depending on the detection state of the sensor. In this case, the error between the actual number of acquired balls and the displayed number of acquired balls becomes smaller. However, even if the sensor is not provided, if the actual number of acquired balls is larger than the number of acquired balls on the display due to the return ball, the result is preferable for the player. I can say.

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

<About the invention group extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the characteristics of the invention group 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>
Features A1. A launching means (game ball launching mechanism 51) for launching a game ball toward the game area, and
A launch control means (power supply and launch control device 79) that causes the launch means to perform a launch operation in a specific launch cycle when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and
In a gaming machine equipped with
A calculation means for calculating the number of times the firing operation is performed using the relationship between the establishment period and the specific firing cycle during the period when the predetermined condition is satisfied (the number of launching balls in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71). A gaming machine characterized by having a function to execute measurement processing).

According to the feature A1, it is possible to indirectly grasp the number of shots or the approximate number thereof by the calculation means without directly detecting the fired game balls, and to what extent even if a separate sensor or the like is not provided. It becomes possible to grasp whether the game ball has been fired.

Feature A2. A control means (main control device 71) having the calculation means is provided.
The control means includes an output means (a function of executing the process of step S220 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71) that outputs special information (increase command, decrease command, or ending command) that reflects the calculation result of the calculation means. ,
The gaming machine according to feature A1, wherein the output means outputs the special information in a period longer than the specific firing cycle.

According to the feature A2, the output cycle of the output means is longer than the firing cycle of the firing operation, and the frequency of outputting the special information can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the information is output each time the game ball is launched. .. As a result, it is possible to suppress the power consumption required for the output and to suppress the deterioration of the members and devices due to the output.

Feature A3. It is provided in the game area where the game ball flows down, and has an opening (for example, a large winning opening 32a) through which the game ball can enter.
The gaming machine according to feature A2, wherein the output means outputs the special information on the condition that the gaming ball enters the opening at least one condition.

According to the feature A3, special information reflecting the calculation result of the calculation means is output under at least one condition that the game ball enters the opening. Therefore, since the discontinuous condition of entering the ball into the opening is added, it is possible to reduce the output frequency of special information.

Feature A4. An opening that is provided in the game area where the game ball flows down and allows the game ball to enter,
A payout means (payout device 77) for paying out the game ball based on the game ball entering the opening, and
A control means having the calculation means and
With
The control means includes an output means for outputting special information reflecting the calculation result of the calculation means.
The output means reflects information on the number of game balls to be paid out or paid out based on the game ball entering the opening in the special information, or output information different from the special information. By reflecting it in the (prize ball command), the relationship between the calculated number calculated by the calculating means and the payout number can be recognized by a means outside the control means (for example, the display control device 97). The gaming machine according to feature A1, characterized in that it is present.

According to the feature A4, when the acquired number (difference between the number of shots and the number of payouts) is recognized by an external device or a player, the calculated number and the payout means calculated by the calculation means without a separate sensor or the like. It is possible to recognize the number of payouts by.

Feature A5. The calculation means recalculates the number of times the firing operation is performed when the calculation result is reflected in the special information.
When the number of payouts is equal to or less than the number of calculations, the output means limits the output so as not to perform external output so that the external means can recognize the relationship between the number of calculations and the number of payouts. The gaming machine according to feature A4, which comprises means (a function of executing the processes of steps S1103 to S1116 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71).

According to the feature A5, when the number of payouts is less than or equal to the calculated number, the output of the output means is limited. Therefore, the output frequency of the output means can be limited.

Feature A6. The control means includes a calculation means for calculating the difference between the calculated number and the payout number (a function of executing the processes of steps S703 to S713 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71).
The output means is characterized in that it outputs information reflecting the calculation result of the calculation means as the special information so that the relationship between the calculated number and the payout number can be recognized by the external means. The gaming machine according to the feature A4 or A5.

According to the feature A6, the output means outputs special information reflecting the calculation result obtained by calculating the difference between the number of payouts and the calculated number. Therefore, compared to the configuration in which the number of payouts and the calculated number are output as they are, the number of payouts and the calculated number are aggregated as the calculation result and reflected in the special information, so that the types of special information to be output can be reduced. It becomes. This makes it possible to reduce the capacity of the control means.

Feature A7. The external means is a display control means (display control device 97) that controls the display means (design display device 41) so that the player can recognize the relationship between the calculated number and the payout number. The gaming machine according to any one of features A4 to A6.

According to the feature A7, the relationship between the calculated number and the payout number is displayed on the display means. As a result, the player can recognize the acquired number actually acquired through the display of the display means.

Feature A8. The display control means causes the display means to display specific information (total number of acquired balls) corresponding to the number of results obtained by subtracting the calculated number from the number of payouts as a display to be recognized.
At least for a predetermined period, the configuration is such that the display of the specific information corresponding to a smaller number than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed at the update timing of the display of the specific information is not updated. The gaming machine described in.

According to the feature A8, the display control means is a number corresponding to the currently displayed specific information at the update timing of the display of the specific information corresponding to the result of subtracting the calculated number from the number of payouts, at least for a predetermined period. Do not update to less than. In particular, in pachinko machines, a prize ball can be obtained by entering a game ball into a predetermined opening, but a prize ball cannot be obtained unless the ball enters the opening, and the number of balls held decreases. Since the frequency of entering the opening is adjusted by adjusting the nails and the like by the hall manager, it is possible that the entry into the opening does not occur frequently regardless of the firing operation of the player. .. In this case, when the display of the specific information is reduced, it is clearly expressed that the ball has not entered, which may give the player a feeling of loss. On the other hand, since this configuration is not updated to a number smaller than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed, the above-mentioned feeling of loss is not given.

Feature A9. The gaming machine according to any one of features A4 to A8, wherein the output means collectively outputs information on the calculated number calculated at that time at the end of a predetermined period.

According to the feature A9, when an external device or a player is made to recognize the number of payouts and the calculated number during a predetermined period, it is possible to make the number more accurate. For example, in a configuration such as feature A6 in which the difference between the calculated number and the payout number is calculated and output, the information on the calculated number at that time is output even if the calculation result is not output. The number of payouts and the number of calculations during the predetermined period will be more accurate values. Further, for example, if the output trigger of the special information reflecting the calculated number is only the end of the predetermined period, not only the calculated number during the predetermined period can be accurately recognized, but also the output frequency can be reduced. It will be possible.

Feature A10. The control means can recognize predetermined information (for example, a prize ball command or an ending command) to a means different from the control means (for example, a payout control device 78 or a voice emission control device 72) through information output from the output means. It is something that makes you
The different means executes a process corresponding to the predetermined information (a process of executing the payout of the prize ball, or a process of ending the effect for the open / close execution mode).
The gaming machine according to any one of features A2 to A9, wherein the output means reflects the calculation result of the calculation means in the special information including the predetermined information.

According to the feature A10, the output means outputs the calculation result of the calculation means by reflecting the calculation result of the calculation means in the special information included in the predetermined information for causing the means different from the control means to execute the process. Therefore, it is not necessary to set dedicated special information when outputting the calculated number or the number to be paid out, and it is possible to reduce the capacity of the control means.

Feature A11. A transition means (a function of executing the processes of steps S801 to S808 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71) for shifting the gaming state to the special state based on the satisfaction of the predetermined conditions, and
Termination means (a function of executing the processing of steps S810 to S813 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71) for terminating the special state based on the satisfaction of the specific condition,
With
The predetermined information includes at least end information (ending command) output from the control means based on the end of the special state.
The gaming machine according to feature A10, wherein the output means reflects the calculation result of the calculation means in the end information.

According to the feature A11, the calculation result of the calculation means is reflected in the end information output from the control means based on the end of the special state and output. Therefore, it is not necessary to newly set the information to be stored in the control means as special information. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the capacity of the control means.

Feature A12. Advantageous state transition means for shifting the gaming state to an advantageous state advantageous to the player based on the satisfaction of the predetermined conditions (end of the opening / closing execution mode in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 in the sixth embodiment). Function to execute time migration process) and
The advantageous state ending means (the first in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 in the sixth embodiment) for terminating the advantageous state on the condition that the launching means has launched a predetermined number of gaming balls. 2. The gaming machine according to any one of features A1 to A11, which is characterized by having (a function of executing a gaming state transition process).

According to the feature A12, it is possible to provide a novel game in which the advantageous state ends when the launching means fires a predetermined number of game balls. Further, unlike A1, since it is possible to grasp the number of shots or the approximate number of shots without the need for a new sensor or the like, it is possible to provide a gaming machine equipped with a novel game at low cost.

The above-mentioned feature A group is effective when applied to the following problems.

A pachinko machine, which is a type of game machine, is equipped with a launch operation device on the front surface of the game machine body, and when the launch operation device is operated, the launch device operates and a game ball is launched at the upper part of the game area. Will be done. Further, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out from the payout device based on the launched game balls entering the opening provided in the game area. Here, it may be necessary to measure the number of shots fired from the launcher. For example, if the number of payouts is notified based on the number of shots, the player can grasp the number actually acquired. In addition, it is possible to make a novel game by adding the number of shots to the progress of the game. However, regarding the measurement of the number of launches, it is not preferable to increase the manufacturing cost in the gaming machine by providing a separate sensor or the like, and there is still room for improvement in this respect.

<Characteristic B group>
Feature B1. A launching means (game ball launching mechanism 51) for launching a game ball toward the game area, and
An opening (for example, a large winning opening 32a) provided in the game area where a game ball can enter, and
A payout means (payout device 77) for paying out the game ball based on the game ball entering the opening, and
The difference between the number of game balls fired by the launching means and the number of firing correspondences, which is either the number of times the firing operation is performed by the launching means, and the number of game balls paid out or paid out by the payout means. A calculation means for calculation (a function of executing a net increase sphere calculation process in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71) and an output means (main) for outputting special information (increase command or subtraction command) reflecting the calculation result of the calculation means. A control means (main controller 71) having a function of executing the process of step S220 in the MPU 92 of the controller 71, and
A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the feature B1, the output means outputs special information reflecting the calculation result obtained by calculating the difference between the number of payouts and the number of shots supported. Therefore, compared to the configuration in which the number of payouts and the number of shots are output as they are, the number of payouts and the number of shots are aggregated as calculation results and reflected in the special information, so the types of special information to be output should be reduced. Is possible. This makes it possible to reduce the capacity of the control means.

Feature B2. The game according to feature B1, wherein the calculation means calculates the difference between the number of shots corresponding to the number of shots and the number of payouts on the condition that the game ball has entered the opening. Machine.

According to the feature B2, the calculation means performs the calculation on the condition that the game ball enters the opening, and the result is reflected in the special information and output. Therefore, it is possible to clarify the calculation trigger of the calculation means. Further, although it is necessary for the calculation means to grasp the number of shots and the number of payouts, it is not necessary to cumulatively grasp the number of payouts because the trigger of the calculation is the entry into the opening. Therefore, the calculation can be facilitated.

Feature B3. The launch correspondence number is initialized when the calculation result of the calculation means is reflected in the special information (for example, in step S1106, step S1111 and step S1115, the number of shot balls counter HN is reset to "0". To do)
The output means executes the processes of steps S1103 to S1116 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 to prevent the output of the special information when the number of payouts is equal to or less than the number corresponding to the firing. The gaming machine according to the feature B1 or the feature B2, which is characterized by having a function of performing.

According to the feature B3, when the number of payouts is less than or equal to the number corresponding to firing, the output of the output means is limited. Therefore, the output frequency of the output means can be limited.

Feature B4. Based on the special information output by the output means, the display means (symbol display device 41) is controlled so that the display is performed so that the player can recognize the relationship between the number of shots supported and the number of payouts. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B3, which comprises a display control means (display control device 97).

According to the feature B4, the relationship between the number of shots supported and the number of payouts is displayed on the display means. As a result, the player can recognize the acquired number actually acquired through the display of the display means.

Feature B5. The display control means causes the display means to display specific information (total number of acquired balls) corresponding to the number of results obtained by subtracting the number of shots corresponding to the number of payouts as the display to be recognized. ,
Feature B4 characterized in that, at least for a predetermined period, the display of the specific information is not updated to the number corresponding to the number smaller than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed at the update timing of the display of the specific information. The gaming machine described in.

According to the feature B5, the display control means corresponds to the currently displayed specific information at the update timing of the display of the specific information corresponding to the result of subtracting the number of shots from the number of payouts, at least for a predetermined period. Do not update to a number less than the number. In particular, in a pachinko machine, a prize ball can be obtained by entering a game ball into a predetermined opening, but a prize ball cannot be obtained unless the ball enters the opening, and the number of balls held decreases. The frequency of ball entry into the opening is adjusted by adjusting nails or the like by the hall manager, and it is possible that the ball entry into the opening does not occur frequently regardless of the player's firing operation. .. In this case, when the display of the specific information is reduced, it is clearly expressed that the ball has not entered, which may give the player a feeling of loss. On the other hand, since this configuration is not updated to a number smaller than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed, the above-mentioned feeling of loss is not given.

Feature B6. The firing correspondence number is initialized when the calculation result of the calculation means is reflected in the special information.
The display control means causes the display means to display specific information (total number of acquired balls) corresponding to the number of results obtained by subtracting the number of shots corresponding to the number of payouts as the display to be recognized. ,
The output means executes the processes of steps S1103 to S1116 in the MPU 92 of the main control device 71 to prevent the output of the special information when the number of payouts is equal to or less than the number corresponding to the firing. The gaming machine according to the feature B4 or the feature B5, which is characterized by having a function of performing.

According to the feature B6, when the number of payouts is less than or equal to the number of shots, the output of the output means is limited and is not reflected in the specific information. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the effect of feature B5 while reducing the processing load on the display control means side.

Feature B7. The gaming machine according to any one of features B1 to B6, wherein the output means collectively outputs information on the number of launch correspondences measured at that time at the end of a predetermined period.

According to the feature B7, the number of shots corresponding to the launch is output when the predetermined period ends. That is, even if the calculation result of the number of payouts and the number of fire correspondences is not output at the end of the predetermined period, the number of fire correspondences at that time is output. It is possible to output accurately.

The above-mentioned feature B group is effective when applied to the following problems.

A pachinko machine, which is a type of game machine, is equipped with a launch operation device on the front surface of the game machine body, and when the launch operation device is operated, the launch device operates and a game ball is launched at the upper part of the game area. Will be done. Further, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out from the payout device based on the launched game balls entering the opening provided in the game area. Here, it may be necessary to output the number of shots fired from the launcher and the number of payouts paid out from the payout device. For example, if the number of payouts is notified based on the number of shots, the player can grasp the number actually acquired, and at the time of this notification, the control device calculates the number of shots and the number of payouts by some method, and the number is calculated. It is necessary to output the calculation result from the control device. However, as the output pattern of information from the control device is increased, it becomes necessary to increase the storage capacity of the control device accordingly.

10 ... Pachinko machine, 51 ... Game ball launch mechanism, 71 ... Main control device, 72 ... Voice emission control device, 78 ... Payout control device, 79 ... Power supply and launch control device, 97 ... Display control device.

Claims (2)

Based on the launch operation by the player, the launching means for launching the game ball supplied to the launch position toward the game area, and
An entry portion provided in the game area where a game ball can enter, and a ball entry portion.
A payout means for paying out the game ball based on the ball entering the ball entry portion,
With
When the game ball launched by the launching means does not reach the game area, the game ball is configured to return to the launch position.
A first grasping means for grasping the number of launches corresponding to the number of game balls launched by the launching means and flowing down the game area, and
A second grasping means for grasping the number of game balls to be paid out or paid out by the payout means, and
An output means that calculates the number of shots that can be handled by the first grasping means and the number of payouts that are grasped by the second grasping means, and outputs special information corresponding to the result of the calculation.
A display control means that controls the display means so that specific information that makes the relationship between the number of shots supported and the number of payouts recognizable is displayed based on the special information output by the output means.
With
The display control means includes means capable of restricting updating the display of the specific information to the display of the specific information corresponding to a smaller number than the number corresponding to the specific information currently displayed, at least for a predetermined period. ,
The display means on which the specific information is displayed is a display means different from the display means for directing.
The output means is provided with an update means for updating predetermined numerical information, and is configured to output the specific information each time the predetermined numerical information becomes special numerical information.
Said updating means said predetermined numerical information after updating the special numerical information, then before updating the special numerical information, are by Uni set shall be subject to a longer period than the firing cycle by said firing means A gaming machine characterized by being. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising an operating means for performing the firing operation.

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