JP7070165B2 - Pachinko machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a picture display device that displays a variable picture on the display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, when a gaming ball passes through an operating port provided in a gaming area, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to generate a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player, such as a hit state. At the same time, the variable display of the pattern is started. When the lottery is won, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-074175

In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of the gaming machine in order to improve the degree of attention to the gaming.

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

The present invention
It is a gaming machine equipped with a pattern display means that variably displays a pattern as the game progresses.
The pattern display means is
A light guide unit that forms an annular or substantially annular shape centered on a predetermined central axis, is rotatably provided around the predetermined central axis, and is arranged so that a part of the outer peripheral surface faces the front of the gaming machine. When,
The light guide portion has a light emitting unit that supplies light to an end face facing the same direction as the predetermined central axis.
A plurality of light emitting portions are provided on the outer peripheral surface so as to be arranged in the rotation direction of the light guide portion.
The light guide unit is configured to display the pattern by emitting light supplied from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit to the outside of the light emitting unit.
By rotating the light guide portion around the predetermined central axis, the supply point to which the light is supplied from the light emitting portion is changed on the end surface of the light guide portion.

According to the present invention, the degree of attention to the game can be suitably improved.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a pachinko machine. It is a perspective view which shows the main composition of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. It is a perspective view which shows the main composition of a pachinko machine in an unfolded manner. It is a front view which shows the structure of the inner frame. It is a front view which shows the structure of the game board unit. It is a perspective view which looked at the game board unit from the back side. It is a rear view which shows the structure of an inner frame. It is a rear view which shows the structure of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows the structure of the back pack unit. (A) is a front view of the variable display unit, and (b) is a perspective view of the variable display unit. It is an exploded perspective view of a variable display unit. It is a vertical sectional view of a variable display unit. It is a cross-sectional view of a variable display unit. It is a schematic diagram which shows the state of light emission. It is a schematic diagram which shows the mounting structure of a light guide plate. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between a light emitting part and a light guide plate. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a pachinko machine. It is a schematic diagram which shows various counters. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure which concerns on the symbol display. It is a schematic diagram which shows the design which is displayed on the variable display unit. It is a schematic diagram which shows the arrangement of the symbols displayed on a variable display unit. It is a schematic diagram which shows the outline of the display in a variable display unit. It is a schematic diagram which shows the arrangement of the side LED. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing executed by the MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the winning process for a working opening. It is a flowchart which shows the information acquisition process. It is a flowchart which shows the normal process which is executed in MPU of a main control unit. It is a flowchart which shows the game time control process. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation start processing. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation display control process which is executed by MPU of a notification / effect control device. It is a flowchart which shows the process for a variation start. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between the variation display mode and the jackpot expectation degree. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow of the production in the normal reach which does not correspond to a special change. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow of the production in the normal reach corresponding to a special change. It is a flowchart which shows the process for changing. It is a flowchart which shows the light emission and drive control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process for special variation display. It is a timing chart showing the flow of production in normal reach that does not support special changes. It is a timing chart showing the flow of the production in the normal reach corresponding to the special change. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between a visible range and a boundary part. (A) It is a flowchart which shows the light emission regulation process, and (b) is the schematic diagram which shows the positional relationship between the side LED which is the object of regulation, and the boundary part. It is sectional drawing of the variable display unit in 2nd Embodiment. (A) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between each light guide plate and the background, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the gaming state and the background. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of the variable display unit. It is sectional drawing of the variable display unit in 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the arrangement of the symbol etc. displayed on the inner reel. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between the symbol combination displayed on the inner reel, and the jackpot type. It is a flowchart which shows the game times control process which is executed by MPU of a main control device. It is a flowchart which shows the control process for the upper actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation start processing for the upper actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the control process for a lower actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation start processing for a lower actuating opening. (A) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the gaming state and the types of the lottery mode and the support mode, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the gaming state and the variable display time. It is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between a game state and lighting / extinguishing of each display unit. (A) is a schematic diagram showing a display mainly composed of an outer reel, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a display mainly composed of an inner reel. It is a flowchart which shows the display process for the upper actuating opening which is executed by MPU of a notification / effect control device. It is a flowchart which shows the main control process for the upper actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the special control processing for the upper actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the display process for a lower actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the main control process for a lower actuating opening. It is a flowchart which shows the special control processing for a lower actuating opening. It is a schematic diagram which shows the gaming apparatus in 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the distribution destination of the game ball which reached the distribution mechanism. (A) is a schematic diagram of a distribution mechanism in an unregulated state, and (b) is a schematic diagram of a distribution device in a regulated state. (A) A perspective view of the ball receiving mechanism as viewed from above, and (b) a vertical sectional view of the ball receiving mechanism. It is a schematic diagram of the gaming device which is in a non-assisted state. It is a schematic diagram of the gaming device which is in an auxiliary state. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of the game apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of the game apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of the game apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the modification of the game apparatus.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as “pachinko machine”), which is a kind of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10 as viewed from the front side, and FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views showing the main configurations of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 3, for convenience, the configuration in the gaming area of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted.

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

As shown in FIG. 2, the outer frame 11 is formed by connecting long frame members on four sides and is formed so as to form a rectangular frame as a whole. By attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island equipment, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall. In the pachinko machine 10, the outer frame 11 is not an indispensable configuration, and the outer frame 11 may be provided in the island equipment of the game hall or the like.

The gaming machine main portion 12 is supported by an outer frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. Specifically, the upper support metal fitting 17 is fixed to the connecting portion between the upper frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11, and further below to the connecting portion between the lower frame portion and the left frame portion in the outer frame 11. A side support metal fitting 18 is provided. The support mechanism is composed of the upper support metal fittings 17 and the lower support metal fittings 18, and the support mechanism causes the game machine main portion 12 to rotate on the left side of the pachinko machine 10 with respect to the outer frame 11. The pachinko machine 10 can be rotated forward with the right side as the rotation tip side (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the gaming machine main portion 12 is arranged behind the inner frame 13 as a base body, the front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame 13, and the inner frame 13. It is equipped with a back pack unit 15. The inner frame 13 of the main portion 12 of the gaming machine 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 when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.

The front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame 13, and is rotatable forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. Further, 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 of the gaming machine. There is.

(Front door frame 14)
Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame body 20 having an outer shape substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. There is. A substantially elliptical window portion 21 is formed in the central portion of the frame body 20 so that almost the entire area of the game area PE described later can be visually recognized from the front, and the window portion 21 is the same by the glass unit 22. It is blocked from the back side of the front door frame 14.

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

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

Light emitting means such as various lamps are provided around the glass unit 22 (specifically, the window portion 21). For example, an annular illumination unit 26 having a built-in light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the peripheral edge of the window unit 21. The annular illumination unit 26 is lit or blinked according to a change in the gaming state at the time of a big hit or a predetermined reach. Further, an error display lamp unit 27 that lights up when a problem such as an error occurs is provided at the center of the annular illumination unit 26 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, and further to the left and right of the error display lamp unit 27, during the payout of prize balls. A illuminating prize ball lamp portion 28 is provided. Further, a speaker unit 29 for outputting sound effects, BGM, etc. according to the game state is provided at a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp units 28 (see FIG. 3).

Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulging portion 31 bulging toward the front side and a lower bulging portion 32 are vertically arranged side by side. An upper plate 33 opened upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 31, and a lower plate 34 also opened upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 32 (see FIG. 2). The upper plate 33 has a function of temporarily storing the game balls paid out from the payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launch mechanism described later while arranging them in a row. Further, the lower plate 34 has a function of storing the surplus game balls in the upper plate 33 and a game in which the game balls launched by the game ball launching mechanism do not reach the game area PE (see FIG. 3). When the ball is returned to the player, it has a function as a saucer for storing the discharged game ball.

A game ball launching handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to project toward the front side. By operating the game ball launch handle 41, the game ball is launched from the game ball launch mechanism described later. The rate of fire of the game ball increases as the operation amount (rotation amount) of the game ball launch handle 41 increases, and when this operation amount is adjusted by the player to reach a predetermined amount, the game ball is played. It will reach the region PE. Further, by adjusting this operation amount by the player, it is possible to separate the game ball into the right route and the left route, which will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 3, a passage forming unit 45 is attached to the back surface of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 45 is formed of synthetic resin and has a front door side upper plate passage leading to the upper plate 33 and a front door side lower plate passage leading to the lower plate 34. In the passage forming unit 45, a receiving portion that protrudes rearward and is opened upward is formed in the upper corner portion thereof, and the entrance portion of the upper plate passage on the front door side is formed by partitioning the receiving portion to the left and right by a partition wall. A section is formed between the portion and the entrance portion of the lower plate passage on the front door side. The front door side upper plate passage and the front door side lower plate passage are connected to the game ball distribution section described later on the upstream side, and the game balls that have entered the front door side upper plate passage are guided to the upper plate 33 and are guided to the front door side lower side. The game ball that has entered the plate passage is guided to the lower plate 34.

On the rotation base end side on the back surface of the front door frame 14, protrusion shafts are provided at the upper end portion and the lower end portion thereof. These protrusion shafts constitute an assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13.

Next, the inner frame 13 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a front view of the inner frame 13. In FIG. 5, as in FIG. 3, the configuration in the gaming area PE of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted for convenience.

(Inner frame 13)
The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of an inner frame base body 50 having a substantially rectangular outer shape like the outer frame 11. The height dimension of the inner frame base body 50 is set to be slightly smaller than the height dimension of the outer frame 11. Further, the inner frame base body 50 is arranged close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a slight gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame base body 50. A curtain plate is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to close this gap. The curtain plate is arranged below the inner frame base body 50 (specifically, the lower end thereof), and when the inner frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the inner frame base body 50 is placed on the curtain plate. It will be listed. A slight clearance may be provided between the curtain plate and the inner frame base body 50 for the purpose of preventing mutual interference.

Support metal fittings 71 and 72 are attached to the upper end and the lower end of the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 5) on the front surface of the inner frame base body 50. Although not shown, the support metal fittings 71 and 72 have shaft portions, and by inserting the bearing portions provided in the front door frame 14 into these shaft portions, the front door frame with respect to the inner frame 13 is inserted. 14 is rotatably supported.

A locking device 75 for locking the inner frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is disposed on the rotating tip side (right side in FIG. 5) of the inner frame base body 50. The locking device 75 extends vertically along the right end portion (vertical frame member described later) of the inner frame base body 50, and the hook member 76 for the front door is arranged scattered in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) thereof. have. In the inner frame base body 50, a slit for projecting to the front side of the inner frame 13 of the hook receiving member 49 (see FIG. 3) provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14 corresponds to each front door hook member 76. It is formed in this way. The front door hook member 76 protruding through the slits is locked to the front door hook member 76 provided in the front door frame 14 in a one-to-one correspondence with each front door hook member 76. The front door frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 13 so that it cannot be opened. Further, the locking device 75 has an inner frame hook member 77 extending to the rear side of the inner frame 13. The inner frame hook member 77 is hooked on the hook receiving member 19 fixed to the outer frame 11, so that the gaming machine main portion 12 is locked with respect to the outer frame 11.

A cylinder lock 78 for unlocking the locking device 75 is installed in the inner frame base body 50 (locking device 75). The cylinder lock 78 is provided separately from the locking unit (each hook member 76, 77, the interlocking rod, etc.) constituting the main part of the locking device 75, and is arranged adjacent to the locking unit. When the key inserted in the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the right (clockwise), the front door frame 14 is unlocked from the inner frame 13, and the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 is turned to the left (counterclockwise). And the lock of the inner frame 13 with respect to the outer frame 11 is unlocked.

A storage recess 51 for accommodating the game board unit 80 is formed in the central portion of the inner frame base body 50. The accommodating recess 51 is recessed in the rear of the gaming machine according to the outer shape of the gaming board unit 80, and the gaming board unit 80 is fixed to the accommodating recess 51 in a state of being fitted from the front of the gaming machine by a manual lock mechanism. .. A substantially rectangular window hole 52 is formed at the bottom of the accommodating recess 51, and the rear surface configuration of the game board unit 80 (rear surface block 80b described later) projects rearward of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 52. .. The window hole 52 is in a state where almost the entire area thereof is covered from the front of the gaming machine by the gaming board unit 80 mounted on the inner frame base body 50.

(Game board unit 80)
The game board unit 80 is provided on the front block 80a formed mainly of a plate material made of a synthetic resin material and on the back side of the front block 80a, and various game parts (variable display device, control device, movable effect) described later are provided. The mechanism, etc.) is integrated with the back block 80b, which is mounted on the base body 251.

The front block 80a has a game area forming body 310 formed of a transparent resin, and the above-mentioned game area PE into which a game ball flows down is formed on the front surface of the game area forming body 310. As described above, the game area PE is covered with the glass unit 22 (specifically, the rear glass panel 23). In the glass unit 22, the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front surface of the game area forming body 310 is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball, that is, the game ball flowing down the game area PE is the same game area PE. They are arranged so that they are not lined up in front and behind at the same place. As a result, ball clogging in the game area PE is suppressed. The game area forming body 310 is not limited to being made of synthetic resin, and may be made of wood.

Hereinafter, the game board unit 80 (particularly, various configurations arranged in the game area PE of the game area forming body 310) will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a front view of the game board unit 80, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the game board unit 80 as viewed from the rear.

The game area forming body 310 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the thickness direction (front-back direction) of the game area forming body 310. As shown in FIG. 6, a general winning opening 81, a variable winning device 82, an operating opening unit 83 (operating openings 83a, 83b), a through gate 84, and the like are arranged in each opening. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating ports 83a and 83b, the game ball is detected by a detection sensor (not shown) provided corresponding to each winning portion, and the detection result thereof. A predetermined number of prize balls (payout of game balls) and other benefits are given to the player based on the above. In addition, an out port 89 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game area forming body 310, and a game ball that has not entered various entry portions or the like is discharged from the game area PE through the out port 89. In the following explanation, in order to clearly distinguish from the entry of the game ball into the out opening 89, the entry of the game ball into the general winning opening 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating openings 83a and 83b is also referred to as "winning". Express.

Further, in the game area forming body 310, various game parts such as a large number of game nails 93 and a windmill 94 are arranged in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the flow path of the game ball. The flow path of the game ball is differentiated by various configurations such as the game nail 93 and the windmill 94, and the above-mentioned general winning opening 81 and the like are adjusted so as to generate a prize with an appropriate probability.

A central opening 85 is formed in the center of the front block 80a (game area forming body 310), and a transparent opening cover 86 is attached so as to cover the central opening. A variable display unit 500 or the like belonging to the back block 80b is located behind the central opening 85, and the variable display unit 500 or the like can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine through the central opening (opening cover 86). .. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the opening cover 86 is displayed by a two-dot chain line to show a state in which the variable display unit 500 can be visually recognized.

A working port unit 83, a through gate 84, and the like are arranged around the central opening 85. The actuating port unit 83 is provided with an upper actuating port 83a arranged below the variable display unit 500 and a lower actuating port 83b arranged below the upper actuating port 83a. Of these two operating ports 83a and 83b, the lower operating port 83b is provided with an electric accessory 91 as an opening / closing assisting device (ball entry assisting means) or an opening / closing member (opening / closing means). The electric accessory 91 has a movable piece and a solenoid-type drive unit for driving the movable piece, and is the same as the open state (auxiliary state) in which the ball can or easily enters the lower operating port 83b. It is possible to switch to the closed state (non-assisted state) where it is impossible or difficult to enter the ball.

The through gate 84 is arranged on the upstream side of the lower operating port 83b (specifically, the side of the variable display unit 500: right route), and is won by a lottery triggered by the passage of the through gate 84 of the game ball. In the case of, the electric accessory 91 is switched from the closed state to the open state for a predetermined time.

When a ball enters the upper operating port 83a, three game balls are paid out, and when a ball enters the lower operating port 83b, four game balls are paid out. However, the number of game balls to be paid out is not limited to the above.

The variable winning device (special winning device or special winning means) 82 is formed with a large winning opening through which a game ball can pass, and is opened and closed as an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) for opening and closing the large winning opening. The body is provided. The opening / closing body can be switched between an open state (allowable state) in which the game ball can be entered or easily, and a closed state (blocked state) in which the game ball cannot or is difficult to enter. Further, the opening / closing body is connected to a variable winning drive unit (specifically, a solenoid or the like) provided on the back side of the game board unit 80, and the opening / closing door is normally kept closed and an internal lottery is performed. In, if you win the transition to the open / close execution mode (open / close execution state) (big hit: if you win the transition to the special gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state), you can switch to the open state. It has become.

Here, the open / close execution mode is a mode that shifts when a big hit is won. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 82 in the opening / closing execution mode, for example, the passage of a predetermined time (for example, 30 sec) or the winning of a predetermined number (for example, 10 pieces) is set as one round, and a plurality of rounds (for example, 16 rounds) are set as the upper limit. It is set so that the opening and closing doors are repeatedly opened.

Here, the variable display unit 500 will be supplementarily described. The variable display unit 500 constitutes a symbol display device that variably displays (variates) the symbol by using a prize in the actuating ports 83a and 83b as a trigger, and the display contents are displayed by the notification / effect control device and the display control device described later. Is controlled. In the variable display unit 500, for example, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are variably displayed so as to be scrolled in the vertical direction, for example. Then, when the jackpot is won, the symbols of a predetermined combination are stopped and displayed on the preset effective line, and the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode (special game state or jackpot).

The game area forming body 310 is provided with a center frame 95 so as to surround the central opening 85. The center frame 95 is fixed to the game area forming body 310 from the front surface side thereof, and in such a fixed state, the center frame 95 stands up from the front surface of the game area forming body 310, so that the center frame 95 and the center frame 95 are fixed to the center frame 95. The gap between the glass unit 22 and the glass unit 22 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the game ball. As a result, it is prevented that the game ball flowing down the game area PE collides with the variable display unit 500, and the flow path of the game ball flowing down the game area PE is on the right side of the variable display unit 500 (specifically, the center frame 95). It is roughly divided into the above right route that detours from the left side and the above left route that detours from the left side.

The variable winning device 82 and the through gate 84 described above are arranged on the right route, and the game ball flowing down the left route is prevented from winning the variable winning device 82 and the through gate. On the other hand, the game ball flowing down the right route is prevented from winning in the upper operating port 83a. Therefore, when the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b is in the high frequency support mode or the open / close execution mode, the game is advantageously advanced by firing the game ball to the right route. When the low frequency support mode is set, the game can be advanced advantageously by firing the game ball to the left route. That is, the player can advance the game advantageously by selecting the flow path of the game ball from the right route / the left route according to the game situation.

A stage portion 96 on which the game ball can roll left and right is formed on the upper surface of the frame portion constituting the lower portion of the center frame 95. The game ball flowing in from the inflow port formed in the left frame portion of the center frame 95 is discharged onto the stage portion 96 through the warp passage 97 also formed in the center frame 95. Regarding the stage portion 96, specifically, the upper operating port is compared with the game ball that does not go through the stage portion 96 so that the game ball that has reached the stage portion 96 can easily flow into the upper operating port 83a. It is configured so that it can easily flow into the 83a, and contributes to increasing the player's attention to the movement of the game ball on the stage portion 96.

Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, the central opening 85 is covered by the transparent opening cover 86, and the game ball that has reached the stage portion 96 does not move to the rear block 80b (variable display unit 500) side. Is regulated.

Further, a first holding lamp portion 98a and a second holding lamp portion 98b are provided on the front surface of the frame portion constituting the lower portion of the center frame 95. The first holding lamp unit 98a on the left side corresponds to the upper operating port 83a, and the number of times the game ball has passed through the upper operating port 83a is held up to four times, and the number of holdings is increased by lighting the first holding lamp unit 98a. It is designed to be displayed. The second holding lamp unit 98b on the right side corresponds to the lower operating port 83b, and the number of times the game ball has passed through the lower operating port 83b is held up to four times, and the number of holdings is increased by lighting the second holding lamp unit 98b. Is displayed.

The operating ports 83a and 83b are arranged at positions closer to the central opening 85 (variable display unit 500). Since it is possible to shift to the special gaming state by triggering the winning of the operating ports 83a and 83b, the player pays attention to whether or not the operating ports 83a and 83b are won and grasps whether or not to shift to the special gaming state. Therefore, it is considered that attention should be paid to the variable display unit 500. The fact that the operating ports 83a and 83b are provided near the variable display unit 500 is a device for concentrating the points that the player wants to pay attention to around the variable display unit 500.

At the right end of the game area forming body 310, a game area partition member 99 for partitioning the game area PE is arranged together with a guide rail 100 described later. The game area partition member 99 is provided with a stopper member and a main display unit 87 on which a game ball flying along the guide rail 100 collides. The stopper member is a cushioning member arranged near the tip of the guide rail 100, and the game ball that collides with the stopper member flows down the game area PE after its momentum is weakened. That is, the stopper member is provided with a de-energizing function that weakens the momentum of the colliding game ball.

Here, the main display unit 87 will be supplementarily described. The main display unit 87 is embedded in the game area partition member 99, and a part thereof is arranged so as to face the glass unit 22. A main display unit for displaying a predetermined pattern or the like is provided on the facing portions. The main display unit 87 is electrically connected to a main control device described later, and the display content of the main display unit is controlled by the main control device.

The main display unit is for the lower operating port display unit that displays the lottery result based on the winning of the upper operating port 83a, and for the lower operating port that displays the lottery result performed based on the winning of the lower operating port 83b. It has a display unit. In the display unit for the lower operating port, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the upper operating port 83a, and as a result of the stop of the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the upper operating port 83a is performed. The result is specified. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the upper operating port 83a is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the open / close execution mode, the variable display is stopped on the display unit for the lower operating port, and the stop result is predetermined. After the pattern of is displayed, the mode shifts to the above-mentioned open / close execution mode.

In the display unit for the lower operating port, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the lower operating port 83b, and as a result of the stop of the variation display, the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the lower operating port 83b is performed. The result is specified. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the lower operating port 83b is the winning result corresponding to the big hit, the variable display is stopped on the display unit for the lower operating port, and a predetermined pattern is displayed as the stop result. After that, the mode shifts to the above-mentioned open / close execution mode according to the result.

Here, based on the winning of any of the operating ports 83a and 83b, the variation display is started on the corresponding operating port display unit, the predetermined stop result is displayed, and the game is played until the above variation display is stopped. It corresponds to one time. However, one game round is not limited to the above content, and for example, a single display area is provided, and even if a prize is awarded to any of the operating ports 83a and 83b, the single display area is provided. In the configuration in which the variable display is performed in the display area, the variable display is started in the single display area, and the game is played once until the variable display is stopped while the predetermined stop result is displayed. It is also possible to.

Further, in the main display unit of the main display unit 87, in addition to the above both display units, a through gate display unit that displays the lottery result based on the winning of the through gate 84 is provided. In the through gate display unit, the variation display of the pattern is performed triggered by the winning of the through gate 84, and as the stop result of the variation display, the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning of the through gate 84 is clearly shown. Will be done. If the result of the internal lottery based on the winning of the through gate 84 is the winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric service open state, the predetermined stop result is displayed on the through gate display unit and the variable display is displayed. After being stopped, it shifts to the electric service open state. In the electric service open state, the electric accessory 91 provided in the lower actuating port 83b is opened in a predetermined manner.

Further, in the present embodiment, the number of times the game ball has passed through the through gate 84 is held up to 4 times, but the number of holdings is displayed on the main display unit of the main display unit 87. A display unit for the number of pending numbers is provided.

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

Explaining the configuration of the inner frame 13 again with reference to FIG. 5, a game ball is launched into the game area PE below the game board unit 80 in the inner frame base body 50 based on the operation of the game ball launch handle 41. A game ball launching mechanism 110 is provided.

(Game ball launch mechanism 110)
The game ball launch mechanism 110 includes a solenoid 111 that launches a game ball arranged at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines a launch direction of the game ball launched by the solenoid 111, and a game at the launch standby position. The ball feeding device 113 for supplying balls and the base plate 114 to which the various configurations 111 to 113 are mounted are provided as the main configurations, and the base plate 114 is fixed to the inner frame base body 50 to provide the same. It is integrated with the inner frame base body 50.

The launch rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 in a state of being inclined diagonally so as to be inclined upward toward the game board unit 80 side. The launch rail 112 is formed with a groove portion having a substantially V-shaped cross section, and the front and rear positions of the game ball are defined by fitting the game ball into the groove-shaped portion.

A ball stopper for holding the game ball supplied from the ball feeding device 113 to the above-mentioned launch standby position is arranged at a position closer to the downstream end (that is, the lower end) of the launch rail 112. The solenoid 111 is arranged at a position further downstream from the ball stopper.

The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to a power supply / emission control device described later. The output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the expansion / contraction direction based on the output of the electric signal from the power supply / launch control device, so that the game ball placed in the launch standby position is on the game board unit 80 side, in detail. It is launched toward the guide rail 100 mounted on the game board unit 80.

The guide rail 100 is formed by partitioning the game area PE together with the game area partition member 99 fixed to the game board unit 80 (specifically, the front surface of the plate body) so that the outer shape of the game area PE is substantially circular. .. Further, the guide rail 100 is composed of an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 arranged so as to face each other with a gap larger than the diameter of the game ball, and both rails 101 and 102 form a section of the guide passage 103. Has been done. The guide passage 103 has an entrance portion 104 opened to the tip end side (obliquely downward) of the launch rail 112, and an exit portion 105 located above the game area PE. The game ball launched based on the operation of the solenoid 111 is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of the launch rail 112 → the guidance rail 100 (entrance portion 104 → exit portion 105). In the game board unit 80, on the front side of the exit portion 105, specifically, near the tip of the inner rail 101, there is a reverse return prevention member 106 that prevents the game ball that has reached the game area PE from returning to the same guidance passage 103. It is attached to prevent the game ball that has reached the game area PE in advance from hindering the launch of the subsequent game ball.

Each of the rails 101 and 102 constituting the guide rail 100 has an arc shape centered on a substantially central portion of the game area PE. Therefore, the game ball passing through the guide passage 103 is likely to move (slide or roll) along the outer rail 102, that is, while in contact with the outer rail 102, due to the centrifugal force generated by itself. That is, when the game ball is launched so as to deliver the game ball to the game area PE, the area along the outer rail 102 in the guidance passage 103 constitutes a passage area (passage path) through which the game ball substantially passes. However, the region along the inner rail 101 is a region in which the game ball does not substantially pass.

As shown in FIG. 5, in the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112, the inlet portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 diagonally face each other with the lower end edge of the game board unit 80 interposed therebetween. Have been placed. That is, both of the rails 100 and 112 are arranged so that the inlet portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 are displaced to the left and right in the vicinity of the lower end edge of the game board unit 80. As a result, both rails 100 and 112 are brought closer to the lower end edge of the game board unit 80, and a gap is formed at a predetermined interval between the inlet portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112.

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

A rail cover 107 is provided at the left end of the game area forming body 310 so as to cover the outer rail 102 from the side. The game board unit 80 is often handled as a single unit during manufacturing or maintenance work, and at this time, the outer rail 102 may collide with the game table or the like. The rail cover 107 is a member mounted in view of such circumstances, and is provided with a protective function for preventing the outer rail 102 from being deformed due to the above factors or the like.

In the inner frame base body 50, a through hole is formed on the left side of the launch rail 112 (specifically, the side supporting the front door frame 14) to penetrate the inner frame base body 50 in the front-rear direction. A passage forming member 121 is arranged in the door. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the inner frame base body 50, and has a main body side upper plate passage 122 and a main body side lower plate passage 123. The upstream side of the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123 leads to a game ball distribution unit described later. Further, the receiving portion of the passage forming unit attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the passage forming member 121, and the front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side upper plate passage 122. A front door side upper plate passage is arranged below the main body side lower plate passage 123.

In the inner frame base body 50, below the passage forming member 121, an opening / closing member 124 for opening and closing the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123 is attached. The opening / closing member 124 is urged at a front position that closes the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123, and when the front door frame 14 is opened, each opening / closing member 124 is urged by this urging force. By being in the closed state, the game balls are prevented from falling out from the passages 122 and 123. On the other hand, in the state where the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the urging force by the receiving portion provided in the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage communicate with each other, and the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage communicate with each other.

Next, the back configuration of the inner frame 13 (inner frame base body 50 and game board unit 80) will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

As shown in FIG. 8, a bearing metal fitting 132 is attached to the rotation base end side (right side in FIG. 8) on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50. Bearing portions 133 are formed on the bearing fitting 132 so as to be separated from each other in the vertical direction, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing portions 133. Further, on the back surface of the inner frame base body 50, a plurality of fixing levers 134 for fixing the back pack unit 15 to the inner frame base body 50 in a closed state are provided.

As described above, the bottom portion of the accommodating recess (game board accommodating portion) 51 in the inner frame base body 50 penetrates in the thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50 and is opened to the back side of the inner frame base body 50. A window hole 52 is formed, and the window hole 52 is covered from the front side of the inner frame 13 by the game board unit 80 housed in the housing recess 51. Various configurations such as a control device are mounted on the back surface of the game board unit 80 (rear block 80b), and these various configurations are exposed to the back side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 52. Here, the configuration of the back surface of the game board unit 80 will be described.

As described above, the back block 80b is attached to the back surface of the game board unit 80. The back block 80b has a substantially box-shaped base body 251 open to the front block 80a side, and the base body 251 is fixed to the back surface of the game board unit 80 to form a front block 80a and a back block. It is integrated with 80b.

The front side of the base body 251 is an arrangement area for a movable effect mechanism and the like, and the back side thereof is an arrangement area for a control device for controlling various configurations thereof and the variable display unit 500.

More specifically, a part of the base body 251 protrudes to the back surface side of the inner frame base body 50, and the above-mentioned variable display unit 500 (see FIG. 6) and the variable display unit thereof with respect to the protruding portion. A notification / effect control device 140 for driving the 500 is attached. The variable display unit 500 and the notification / effect control device 140 are arranged so as to be stacked so that the variable display unit 500 is on the front side and the notification / effect control device 140 is on the rear side in the front-rear direction (thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50). Has been done.

The notification / effect control device 140 includes a notification / effect control board that controls voice output, lamp display, and control of the variable display unit 500 according to instructions from the main control device described later. It is housed in a substrate box 141 made of a transparent resin material or the like.

Below the notification / effect control device 140, a main control device unit 160 is provided so as to cover the base body 251 from the rear. The main control device unit 160 has a synthetic resin mounting base 161 fixed to the back surface of the game board unit 80 (specifically, the rear block 80b) and a main control device 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. There is. The main control device 162 includes a main control board having a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power failure monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a substrate box 163 made of the same.

The board box 163 includes a box base (front case body) having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are unopenably connected by a box sealing portion 164 as a sealing means, whereby the substrate box 163 is sealed. A plurality of box sealing portions 164 are provided on the short side portions of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

Any configuration can be applied to the box sealing portion 164 as long as the box base and the box cover cannot be opened, but the box can be inserted by inserting a locking pin into the locking hole portion constituting the box sealing portion 164. The base and the box cover are designed so that they cannot be opened. The sealing process by the box sealing unit 164 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the unauthorized opening is performed. It is possible to perform the sealing process again even after opening the package. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting the locking pin into at least one locking hole of the plurality of box sealing portions 164. When the board box 163 is opened when a defect occurs in the housed main control board or when the board box 163 is inspected, the connecting portion between the box sealing portion into which the locking pin is inserted and the board box 163 main body is formed. To disconnect. As a result, the box base of the board box 163 and the box cover are separated, and the internal main control board can be taken out. After that, when the sealing process is performed again, the locking pin is inserted into another locking hole. If the history of opening the board box 163 is left in the board box 163, it can be easily found that the illegal opening has been performed by looking at the board box 163.

The board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are connected to each other by a pedestal sealing portion 165 so as not to be opened. Specifically, the pedestal sealing portion 165 has a locking hole portion and a locking pin as in the box sealing portion 164, and the locking pin is inserted into the locking hole portion to form a board box 163. It is designed to be inseparably coupled to the mounting base 161. This makes it easier to grasp the fact when the board box 163 is illegally removed.

The portion of the front surface of the base body 251 facing the lower back surface of the game board unit 80 corresponds to the game board openings of the general winning opening 81, the variable winning device 82, and the operating ports 83a and 83b, and is on the downstream side. A collection passage (not shown) that gathers at one place is formed. As a result, all the game balls that have won in the general winning opening 81 or the like are configured to gather below the game board unit 80 via the collection passage. That is, the base body 251 is provided with a function of collecting game balls that have won prizes in various winning openings.

A discharge passage, which will be described later, is arranged below the game board unit 80, and the game balls gathered below the game board unit 80 are led out into the discharge passage by the collection passage. The out port 89 is also connected to the discharge passage, and the game ball that has not won a prize in any of the winning openings is led out into the discharge passage through the out port 89.

Further, the base body 251 constituting the rear block 80b has, as the detection sensor for each of the above-mentioned ball entry portions, a general winning opening detection sensor for detecting the game ball won in the general winning opening 81 and the operating port 83a. , 83b is equipped with a detection sensor for the operating port that detects the game ball, and the winning detection mechanism is configured by these various detection sensors. These various detection sensors are electrically connected to the main control device 162, and detection information (detection signal) is output from each detection sensor to the main control device 162.

Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. 9 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 10 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

As shown in FIG. 9, the inner frame 13 is covered from the rear by the back pack unit 15. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201 as a main body of the back pack unit 15, and a payout mechanism unit 202, a discharge passage board, and a control device collective unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201. ..

The back pack 201 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and as shown in FIG. 9, the base portion 211 to which the payout mechanism portion 202 and the like are attached, and the protective cover portion that protrudes rearward of the pachinko machine 10 and forms a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. It has 212. The protective cover portion 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is open, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display unit 500 (see FIG. 10).

The base portion 211 is provided with an external terminal board. Various output terminals are provided on the external terminal board, and various signals are output to the management control device (hall computer) on the game hall side through these output terminals. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower hooking pins 214 at the right end portion when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the bearing pin 214 is provided on the inner frame 13. The back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported with respect to the inner frame 13 by being inserted through the portion 133. The base portion 211 is formed with a plurality of insertion portions through which the fixed lever 134 provided in the inner frame 13 is inserted, and the fixed lever 134 is inserted into the insertion portion and hits the base portion 211 from behind. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the inner frame 13 by being in contact with the inner frame 13.

The base portion 211 is provided with a payout mechanism portion 202 so as to bypass the protective cover portion 212. The payout mechanism unit 202 is provided with a tank 221 that is arranged at the top of the back pack 201 and is open upward, and game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall are sequentially replenished to the tank 221. To. A tank rail 222 that gently inclines toward the downstream side is connected to the side of the tank 221 and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A payout device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223. The game balls paid out from the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution unit 225 provided in the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 224.

The game ball distribution unit 225 has a function for distributing the game balls paid out from the payout device 224 to any of the upper plate 33, the lower plate 34, or the discharge passage described later, and the inner opening is the main body described above. Formed so as to lead to the upper plate 33 via the side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage, and to lead the outer opening to the lower plate 34 via the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage. Has been done.

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

The control device collective unit 204 has a horizontally long mounting base 241, and the payout control device 242 and the power supply / emission control device 243 are mounted on the mounting base 241. The payout control device 242 and the power supply / launch control device 243 are arranged so as to be stacked in the front-rear direction so that the payout control device 242 is behind the pachinko machine 10.

In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is housed in the board box 244, and a state return switch 245 provided on the payout control board projects out of the board box 244. For example, when the state return switch 245 is pressed when a payout error such as a ball jam in the payout device 224 occurs, the ball jam can be cleared.

In the power supply / emission control device 243, the power supply / emission control board is housed in the substrate box 246. A predetermined power source required by various control devices and the like is generated and output by the power supply / launch control board, and the launch of the game ball is controlled by the player operating the game ball launch handle 41. Specifically, the drive control of the solenoid 111 constituting the game ball launch mechanism 110 and the drive control of the ball feeding device 113 are executed.

Further, the power supply / emission control device 243 is provided with a power supply switch 247. By operating the power switch 247, the power of the pachinko machine 10 can be switched between an on state (on state) and a cutoff state (off state).

Here, the pachinko machine 10 has a storage and holding function for various data, retains the state at the time of a power failure even in the unlikely event of a power failure, and returns to the state at the time of a power failure when recovering from the power failure. You can do it. For example, when the power is turned off in the normal procedure as in the case of the closing of the game hall, the state before the cutoff is stored in memory. On the other hand, when the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erasing switch 166 provided in the main control device 162, the RAM data is initialized.

These various switches can be operated from the front side of the gaming machine by opening the main portion 12 (inner frame 13) of the gaming machine to expose the back portion of the inner frame 13. On the other hand, in a state where the opening of the gaming machine main unit 12 is restricted by the locking device 75, these various switches cannot be operated from the front side of the gaming machine. That is, it is difficult to operate the above-mentioned various switches when the main part 12 of the gaming machine is closed, and the operation from the front side of the gaming machine by a person who does not have the key for the locking device 75 (for example, a fraudster). Is difficult.

(Variable display unit 500)
As described above, in the present embodiment, the result of the lottery based on the entry into the operating port unit 83 is notified by the variable display unit 500 mounted on the game board unit 80. The configuration of the variable display unit 500 is characteristic. Hereinafter, the variable display unit 500 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14. 11A is a front view of the variable display unit 500, FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the variable display unit 500, FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the variable display unit 500, and FIG. 13 is a vertical cross section of the variable display unit 500. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the variable display unit. In FIG. 12, some drum units are shown in a state where the light guide portion described later is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 11, the variable display unit 500 includes a substantially box-shaped housing 521 opened in front of the gaming machine, and a plurality of (specifically, three) drum units 523 housed in the housing 521 side by side. The housing 521 is fixed to the game area forming body 310 from the back surface side thereof, so that the housing 521 is integrated with the game area forming body 310. The housing 521 is colored and opaque, and is shielded from light from the outside of the housing 521 so as not to be irradiated to the inside of the housing 521 through the meat portion of the housing 521.

A part of the drum unit 523 projects forward through the opening 522 of the housing 521. A part of this protruding portion is visible from the front of the gaming machine through the central opening 85 formed in the gaming board unit (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 11A). That is, the central opening 85 functions as a defining portion or a window portion that defines an area that can be visually recognized by the variable display unit 500.

As shown in FIG. 12, the drum unit 523 includes a plate-shaped base body 524 constituting a mounting portion to the housing 521 and a rotating body (drum) 525 held by the base body 524. In a state where the base body 524 is fixed to the housing 521, the internal region of the housing 521 is divided into three equal parts to the left and right according to each drum unit 523 by the base body 524.

The rotating body 525 is mounted on the base body 524 via the motor 526. Specifically, the motor 526 is fixed to the base body 524, and the rotating body 525 is fixed to the output shaft of the motor 526. The output shaft of the motor 526 extends in the parallel direction (left-right direction) of the drum unit 523, and the rotating body 525 rotates about the axis of the output shaft (rotation center axis CL). The motor 526 is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the drive control is performed by the notification / effect control device 140. The motor 526 is a stepping motor, and the rotation position of the rotating body 525 can be adjusted by the number of pulses of the output drive signal.

The base body 524 is equipped with a position detection sensor 527 that detects the rotation position of the rotating body 525. The position detection sensor 527 is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the notification / effect control device 140 grasps the rotation position of the rotating body 525 based on the detection information (detection signal) from the position detection sensor 527. When the rotation position of the rotating body 525 shifts due to the influence of an external force or the occurrence of a malfunction, the rotating position of the rotating body 525 is corrected (corrected) based on the grasped position information.

The rotating body 525 is composed of a circular frame 531 that constructs the skeleton of the rotating body 525 and a light guide portion 532 that is substantially cylindrical and has a constant thickness that covers the outer peripheral portion of the frame 531. As shown in FIG. 12, the frame 531 includes a hub 535 as a central portion to which the output shaft of the motor 526 is fixed, an annular rim 536 as the outer peripheral portion to which the light guide portion 532 is fixed, a hub 535, and the hub 535. It is composed of spokes 537 that connect the rim 536.

Specifically, the rim 536 has a pair of left and right annular portions 541 centered on the rotation center axis CL, and a long connecting portion 542 connecting the annular portions 541. The light guide portion 532 is fixed to the connecting portion 542 by using a fixing means in a state of being overlapped with the connecting portion 542 from the outside of the frame 531. The frame 531 shown in the present embodiment is made of a colorless and transparent synthetic resin, and a colorless and transparent adhesive is used as the fixing means. This is a device for making the frame 531 and the fixing portion (fixing means) to the frame 531 inconspicuous when the light guide unit 532 is visually observed.

As shown in FIG. 13, a background display device 529 is arranged inside the light guide unit 532. The background display device 529 includes a decorative sheet 581 with a pattern imitating the seaside, a backlight 582 located behind the decorative sheet 581 and irradiating the decorative sheet 581 with light, and the decorative sheet 581 and the backlight 582. It has a mounted holder 583 and is integrated with the base body 524 by fixing the holder 583 to the base body 524. The decorative sheet 581 is arranged so that the sheet surface to which the pattern is given faces the front of the gaming machine (center opening 85 side), and the inner surface portion 552 of the light guide portion 532 is separated from the inside of the frame 531 with a gap. Facing each other. As a result, the background drawn on the decorative sheet 581 can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine through the light guide unit 532. Although the decorative sheet 581 has light transmission, it is colored and opaque, and is configured so that the backlight 582 and the like located behind the decorative sheet 581 cannot be visually recognized.

The backlight 582 is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and is switched on / off by the notification / effect control device 140. When the backlight 582 is turned on, the light from the backlight 582 passes through the decorative sheet 581, and the decorative sheet 581 emits bright light.

Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a configuration related to light emission of the light guide unit 532 will be described. The rim 536 of the frame 531 is formed with a contact portion 543 that abuts on the light guide portion 532 from the side opposite to the base body 524 side. The left and right positions of the light guide portion 532 are defined by the contact portion 543. The end portion of the light guide portion 532 on the side opposite to the contact portion 543 (base body 524 side) extends laterally from the rim 536. The base body 524 is formed with an insertion portion 561 into which the extending portion (end portion) is inserted.

The insertion portion 561 has a groove shape that is open to the light guide portion 532 side, and the end portion of the light guide portion 532 is inserted into the insertion portion 561 through this open portion (hereinafter referred to as the first open portion 564). There is. A light emitting board 571 on which a plurality of light emitting bodies 572 (specifically, LEDs) are mounted is arranged on the side opposite to the light guide portion 532 with the bottom portion 562 of the insertion portion 561 interposed therebetween. The light emitting board 571 is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the light emission control of the light emitting board 571 is performed by the notification / effect control device 140.

A plurality of through holes 563 are formed in the bottom portion 562 of the insertion portion 561 according to each light emitting body 572, and the light emitting body 571 mounted on the light emitting substrate 571 passes through the through hole 563 to the end surface 554 of the light guide portion 532. We are facing each other. The optical axis of each light emitting body 572 points in the same direction as the rotation center axis CL of the rotating body 525, and the light from the light emitting body 572 irradiates the end surface 554 of the light guide portion 532. The base body 524 (including the insertion portion 561) is made of a colored and opaque synthetic resin material, and is provided with a function of absorbing light. As a result, light leakage from the insertion portion 561 is suppressed. In the present embodiment, the end surface 554 of the light guide unit 532 is located on a virtual plane orthogonal to the rotation center axis CL, and the distance between the light emitting body 572 and the end surface 554 is any rotation position. It is configured to be constant even in.

As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 15, the light from the light emitting body 572 repeatedly reflects off the outer surface portion 551 and the inner surface portion 552 of the light guide unit 532, and heads toward the opposite end surface of the light guide unit 532. Here, a light emitting portion 553 made of fine irregularities is formed on the outer surface portion 551 of the light guide portion 532. The light supplied to the light guide unit 532 reaches the light emitting unit 553 and is emitted to the front of the gaming machine. The light emitting unit 553 corresponds to various symbols described later, and the light emitting unit 553 emits light so that the symbols are displayed on the outer surface portion 551 of the light guide unit 532. In other words, when the light emitting unit 553 does not emit light, the symbol is hidden. Since the light emitting portion 553 is formed by fine irregularities, it is usually practically invisible or extremely difficult due to the transfer of ambient light such as the lighting of the game hall to the light guide portion 532. It may be possible to visually recognize a certain light emitting part 553. Although the details will be described later, the variable display unit 500 shown in the present embodiment is devised to suppress the occurrence of such inconvenience.

With respect to the rotating body 525 shown in the present embodiment, a light guide portion 532 having a substantially cylindrical shape as a whole is constructed by combining a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557 provided separately in the rotation direction. Hereinafter, the specific configuration of the light guide unit 532 will be supplementarily described with reference to FIG. 16.

The light guide panels 555 to 557 are made of transparent synthetic resin, and all have a plate shape having a constant thickness and a constant curvature. Further, the length dimension in the rotation direction and the width dimension in the rotation center axis CL direction of the rotating body 525 are also the same, and the appearance is the same except for the light emitting portion 553 (displayed pattern). It is formed like this. Although the light guide panels 555 to 557 are fixed to the rim 536 (specifically, the connecting portion 542) of the frame 531 by using the transparent adhesive which is the fixing means, the light guide panels 555 to 557 are fixed to each other. It is non-fixed.

As described above, in the configuration in which one end of the light guide portion 532 is inserted into the insertion portion 561, the inner surface of the insertion portion 561 and the light guide portion 532 are combined as much as possible in order to improve the light supply efficiency. It is preferable to bring them close to each other. However, in order to make such a structure, it is necessary to add a certain margin to the gap between the two in consideration of the fact that the light guide panels 555 to 557 are distorted due to manufacturing errors and changes over time. Here, in the present embodiment, by making the light guide panels 555 to 557 non-fixed to each other, it is possible to avoid the distortion that may occur when the light guide panels 555 to 557 are fixed. This makes it possible to reduce the margin as much as possible.

When the rotating body 525 is constructed by using the light guide unit 532, the expressive power of the variable display unit 500 can be improved, but the weight of the rotating body 525 tends to increase. There is concern that this will be a factor that reduces the responsiveness when rotating / stopping the rotating body 525. In this respect, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16B, the light guide panels 555 to 557 avoid overlapping in the thickness direction. As a result, the weight increase of the light guide unit 532 is suppressed, and the decrease in responsiveness is suppressed.

In the boundary portion BP1 between the light guide panels 555 and 557, the adjacent light guide panels 555 to 557 face each other with a gap between them. This is a device for avoiding strong interference between the light guide panels 555 to 557 at the boundary portion BP1 when the size of the light guide panels 555 to 557 varies due to a manufacturing error or the like. By avoiding the strong interference of the light guide panels 555 to 557, it is possible to prevent the light guide panels 555 to 557 from being deformed such as the above distortion.

Further, as shown in FIG. 16B, the boundary portion BP1 is displaced in the rotation direction with respect to the connecting portion 542 of the frame 531, and both ends of each light guide panel 555 to 557 in the rotation direction are offset. It is non-fixed (free end). This is a device to separate the fixing point by the adhesive from the boundary part BP1.

Next, with reference to FIG. 17, the insertion portion 561 will be supplementarily described. The insertion portion 561 extends from the opening 522 in the light guide portion 532 along a portion protruding in front of the gaming machine. The open portions on both the upper and lower sides of the insertion portion 561 (hereinafter referred to as the second open portion 565) are expanded so as to gradually increase in width toward the end portions. As a result, the catching when the boundary portion BP1 passes through the second opening portion 565 is suppressed.

When the second opening portion 565 is expanded, light leakage from the side light 528 is likely to occur. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the second opening portion 565 is formed so as to face backward, more specifically, to face diagonally backward. This is a device that makes it difficult for the player to see the light when the light leaks from the second opening portion 565.

The bottom portion 562 of the insertion portion 561 can also be formed so that the distance from the light guide portion 532 increases toward the upper and lower ends of the insertion portion 561. With such a configuration, it is possible to more preferably suppress the catching of the boundary portion BP1 when passing through the insertion portion 561.
(Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

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

The MPU 602 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A power failure monitoring board 605 provided in the main control device 162, a payout control device 242, various detection sensors 611a to 611e, and the like are connected to the input side of the MPU 602. In this case, the power supply / emission control device 243 is connected to the power failure monitoring board 605, and power is supplied to the MPU 602 via the power failure monitoring board 605. Further, as a part of various detection sensors 611a to 611e, various winning ball-supporting portions such as a general winning opening 81, a variable winning device 82, an operating port unit 83 (upper operating port 83a, lower operating port 83b) and a through gate 84. Detection sensors provided in (payout compatible ball entry section) are connected to each other, and based on the detection information (detection signal) from these detection sensors, the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 determines the winning of each ball entry section ( Ball entry judgment) is performed. Further, in the MPU 602, the jackpot generation lottery is executed based on the winning of the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b, and the support generation lottery is executed based on the winning of the through gate 84.

A power failure monitoring board 605, a payout control device 242, and a notification / effect control device 140 are connected to the output side of the MPU 602. A prize ball command is output to the payout control device 242, for example, based on the winning determination result for the winning ball portion corresponding to the winning, such as the above-mentioned operating ports 83a and 83b. In this case, the command information storage area 625 of the ROM 603 is referred to when outputting the prize ball command. Then, when the winning to the general winning opening 81 is specified, the prize ball command corresponding to the payout of 10 game balls is output, and when the winning to the variable winning device 82 is specified, 15 game balls are output. The prize ball command corresponding to the payout of the above is output, and when the prize to the upper operating port 83a is specified, the prize ball command corresponding to the payout of the three game balls is output, and the prize to the lower operating port 83b is output. If specified, a prize ball command corresponding to the payout of four game balls is output.

Various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, an opening command, and an ending command are output from the main control device 162 to the notification / effect control device 140. When outputting these various commands, the command information storage area 625 of the ROM 603 is referred to. Details of these various commands will be described later. It should be noted that each of the above commands is configured as information on a predetermined number of bytes, and includes various information as information on the predetermined number of bytes.

Further, on the output side of the MPU 602, a variable winning drive unit 82c for opening and closing the opening / closing door of the variable winning device 82, an electric accessory driving unit 91c for opening / closing the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b, and a main display unit. 87 is connected. Various driver circuits are provided on the main control board 601. Through the driver circuits, the MPU 602 executes drive control of various drive units.

That is, in the open / close execution mode, the drive control of the variable winning drive unit 82c is executed in the MPU 602 so that the large winning opening is opened and closed. Further, when the support lottery for the electric accessory 91 is won, the drive control of the electric accessory drive unit 91c is executed in the MPU 602 so that the electric accessory 91 is opened and closed. Further, the display control of the main display unit 87 is executed by the MPU 602.

Further, an external output terminal board 213 is connected to the output side of the MPU 602, and through this external output terminal board 213, information on entering various ball entry units is provided to the management control device (hole computer HC) on the game hall side. Information about lottery results such as jackpots and jackpots is output. This makes it possible to grasp the state of the pachinko machine 10 and the like with the hall computer HC.

The power failure monitoring board 605 relays the main control board 601 and the power supply / emission control device 243, and the power failure monitoring board 605 has a DC stable 24 volt voltage which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply / emission control device 243. The function to monitor is given. The payout control device 242 controls the payout of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 224 based on the prize ball command input from the main control device 162.

The power supply / launch control device 243 is connected to, for example, a commercial power supply (external power supply) in a game hall or the like. Then, the operating power required for each of the main control board 601 and the payout control device 242 is generated based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, and the generated operating power is supplied through a predetermined power path. do. Further, the power supply / launch control device 243 is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 110, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met.

The notification / effect control device 140 is a variable display provided in the display lamp units 26 to 28 provided in the front door frame 14, the speaker unit 29, and the game board unit 80 based on various commands input from the main control device 162. It controls the unit 500. In particular, in the notification / effect control device 140, an outline of the effect mode in each game round, for example, the variation display mode of the symbol in the variable display unit 500 (for example, the presence / absence of reach occurrence and the presence / absence of reach) in the notification / effect control device 140 based on various commands input from the main control device 162. It has a function to determine the stop display mode (type of combination of symbols to be finally stopped and displayed (confirmed display) when the variable display ends) and the stop display mode of the symbol (contents of reach effect, etc.).

(About various counters)
Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

The MPU 602 uses various counter information during the game to perform a big hit generation lottery, a setting of the display of the main display unit 87, a setting of the symbol display of the variable display unit 500, and the like. As shown in, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the lottery for the occurrence of jackpots, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type such as the probability variation jackpot result and the normal jackpot result, and the variable display unit 500 deviate from each other. The reach random number counter C3 used for the reach lottery when is performed, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the variable display time in the main display unit 87 and the variable display unit 500 are determined. The variable type counter CS is used. Further, the electric accessory opening counter C4 used for the lottery as to whether or not the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b is set to the electric service open state is used.

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, and the updated value is appropriately stored in the lottery counter buffer 631 set in a predetermined area of the RAM 604. In the lottery counter buffer 631, the information corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 is used as an acquisition information storage means when a prize is generated in the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b. It is stored in the reserved ball storage area 632.

The holding ball storage area 632 includes a holding area RE including a holding area Ra for the upper working port and a holding area Rb for the lower working port, and an execution area AE. The holding areas Ra and Rb include a first area Ra1, Rb1, a second area Ra2, Rb2, a third area Ra3, Rb3, and a fourth area Ra4, Rb4, and are provided with an upper working port 83a or a lower working port 83b. 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 631 according to the winning history is reserved information in any of the areas Ra1 to Ra4, Rb1 to Rb4. Stored in. The reserved information corresponds to special information.

In this case, in the first area Ra1, Rb1 to the fourth area Ra4, Rb4, when the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b is awarded a plurality of times in succession, the first area Ra1, Rb1 → the first. Numerical information is stored in the order of 2 areas Ra2, Rb2 → 3rd area Ra3, Rb3 → 4th areas Ra4, Rb4 in chronological order. By providing each of the four areas Ra1 to Ra4 and Rb1 to Rb4 in this way, up to four winning histories of the game balls to the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b can be reserved and stored. It has become. Further, a total reserved number storage area is provided in the reserved ball storage area 632, and the number of winning histories stored in the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b is specified in the total reserved number storage area. Information to do is stored.

The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first areas Ra1 and Rb1 of the hold area RE when the variable display of the main display unit 87 is started, and is an area for starting one game round. Based on various numerical information stored in the execution area AE, a hit / fail determination or the like is performed.

More specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of, for example, 0 to 299, reach the maximum value (that is, 299), and then return 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 stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b.

The value of the random number that wins the jackpot is stored as a hit / miss table (hit / miss information group) in the hit / miss table storage area 621 as the hit / miss information group storage means in the ROM 603. Here, the contents of the pass / fail table will be described.

In the pass / fail table, the address information consisting of binary information and the jackpot numerical information also consisting of binary information are set in a one-to-one correspondence. Specifically, the address information is represented by a decimal number and 10 types of "1" to "10" are set, and the jackpot numerical information is represented by a decimal number "7", "36", "67". , "100", "131", "164", "195", "223", "241", "272" are set, and these address information and jackpot numerical information are one-to-one. It is associated. The numerical value of each jackpot numerical information is included in "0" to "299" which is a numerical range of random number information that can be updated in the jackpot random number counter C1.

Here, 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 / failing lottery means. The number of jackpot numerical information referred to in the low probability mode is different from the number of jackpot numerical information referenced in the high probability mode, and the former is smaller than the latter. Specifically, in the low probability mode, only the jackpot numerical information whose address information is "1" is referred to in the winning / failing lottery, and in the high probability mode, the jackpot numerical information corresponding to all the address information is referred to in the winning / failing lottery. Referenced. That is, in the low-probability mode, there is one numerical information that is a big hit, and in the high-probability mode, there are ten more than in the low-probability mode. As a result, the probability of winning a big hit in the low probability mode is 1/300, while the probability of winning a big hit in the high probability mode is 1/30, and the high probability mode is a big hit than the low probability mode. The probability of winning is high. If the winning probability in the high probability mode is higher than that in the low probability mode, the number and value of the random numbers to be won are arbitrary.

The jackpot type counter C2 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 29, reach the maximum value, and then return to 0. The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b.

Here, in the pachinko machine 10, (1) the winning / failing lottery mode in the winning / failing lottery means after the opening / closing execution mode ends, and (2) the support mode in the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b after the opening / closing execution mode ends. By providing a difference between the two conditions, multiple types of jackpot results are set. As the winning / failing lottery mode, a low probability mode and a high probability mode are set as described above.

As a support mode, the frequency with which the electric accessory 91 of the lower operating port 83b is opened per unit time when compared in a situation where the game ball is continuously launched to the game area PE in the same manner. The low frequency support mode (low frequency support state or low frequency guide state) and the high frequency support mode (high frequency support state or high frequency guide state) are set so that

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 91 is in the open state when the electric role open state is won is set more than in the low-frequency support mode, and one more release. The time is set long. In this case, in the high frequency support mode, when the electric accessory 91 is won in the open state and the electric accessory 91 is opened multiple times, it is closed from the end of one open state to the start of the next open state. The time is set shorter than the one-time opening time. Furthermore, in the high-frequency support mode, a shorter time is selected as the securing time to be secured for the next electric accessory opening lottery after one electric accessory opening lottery is performed, as compared with the low-frequency support mode. Is set to be done.

As described above, in the high frequency support mode, the probability that the lower operating port 83b will be 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 83a is higher than that of the lower operating port 83b, but in the high frequency support mode, the lower operating port 83b is more likely than the upper operating port 83a. The probability of winning a prize increases. Then, when a prize is won in the lower operating port 83b, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high frequency support mode, the player plays a game while not reducing the number of balls held so much. be able to.

In addition, the configuration for increasing the frequency of the electric service opening state per unit time in the high frequency support mode is not limited to the above, for example, the electric accessory opening lottery. It may be configured to increase the probability of winning the electric service open state in. In addition, the secured time secured for the next electric accessory opening lottery after one electric accessory opening lottery is performed (for example, the result display unit for the accessory based on the winning of the through gate 84). In a configuration where multiple types of variable display time (time to be executed) are prepared, it is set so that a shorter reservation time is easier to select or the average reservation time is shorter in the high frequency support mode than in 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,). , Shorten the one-time variable display time in the result display unit for accessories), shorten the average time of the secured time, and increase the winning probability, one of the conditions 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 603. Then, a normal jackpot result (low probability correspondence special game result) and a probability variation jackpot result (high probability correspondence special game result) are set as such distribution destinations.

As for the normal jackpot result, after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the low probability mode, and after the support mode shifts, the number of games is supported until the end reference number (specifically, 100 times). It is a big hit result that becomes a mode. After the end reference number of times has elapsed, the mode shifts to the low frequency support mode.

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. The high-frequency support mode continues until the lottery result in the winning / losing lottery becomes a big hit state winning and the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

In the distribution table, "0 to 19" corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and "20 to 29" corresponds to the probabilistic jackpot result, but the distribution of this numerical value is arbitrary. Further, the distribution destination of the jackpot result is not limited to the above two types. For example, in the opening / closing execution mode, a plurality of modes are set so that the expected value of the game ball is high or low, and the opening / closing execution is executed. By providing a difference in the mode to which the mode is transferred, the types of jackpot results may be increased from the above two types.

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of, for example, 0 to 238, reach the maximum value (that is, 238), and then return to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated, and is stored in the reserved ball storage area 632 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b. More specifically, it is stored in the holding area RE of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins in the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b. Then, it is decided whether or not to generate the reach based on the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 603. However, in the game round to shift to the open / close execution mode, the MPU 602 determines the reach generation regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3. The number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display is the same in each game state, but may be set individually according to the game state. For example, when the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the number of reach random number counters C3 corresponding to the occurrence of the reach display may be set to be larger than that in the low frequency support mode.

Here, the reach display (reach state) is provided with a variable display unit 500 capable of performing variable display (or variable display) of a symbol (picture), and is stopped after the variable display in the game times in which the open / close execution mode is set. In a gaming machine whose display result is a special display result, the special display result is before the stop display result is derived and displayed after the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) in the variable display unit 500 is started. It is a display state that makes the player think that it is a variable display state that tends to be.

In other words, by stopping and displaying some of the symbols among the plurality of symbols displayed on the variable display unit 500, there is a possibility that a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode will be established. It is a display state in which a combination of reach symbols is displayed, and in that state, the symbols are variablely displayed in the remaining symbol rows.

More specifically, as a pre-stage for ending the variation display of the symbol, a combination of reach symbols that may establish a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the open / close execution mode is provided on the preset effective line. A reach line is formed by displaying a stop, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, a variable display of symbols is performed by the final stop symbol sequence.

Here, with reference to FIG. 20, the configuration related to the variation display of the symbol of each game round and the outline of the variation display will be described. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an outline of display in the variable display unit 500. In the following description, the configuration related to the left drum has an "L" at the end of the identification code, the configuration related to the middle drum has an "M" at the end of the identification code, and the configuration related to the right drum. Is appropriately distinguished by adding "R" to the end of the identification code.

The variable display unit 500 is set with three symbol rows of left, middle, and right, and a left variable display area DL, a medium variable display area DM, and a right variable display area DR are provided corresponding to each of these symbol rows. Has been done. In the variable display unit 500, the symbols in each symbol row are variably displayed so as to scroll in a predetermined direction (for example, from top to bottom) with periodicity. In each variable display area DL, DM, DR, 3 symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of 9 symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. ing.

As shown in FIGS. 21 (a) to 21 (j), the above-mentioned symbols are composed of nine types of main symbols, which are numbers "1" to "9", and sub-designs, which are symbols imitating shells. Has been done. The main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to "high-probability symbols", and when the high-probability symbols are aligned, they enter the jackpot state, which is a special gaming state, and then. It shifts to the state at the time of high probability. In addition, the main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to "low probability symbols", and when the low probability symbols are aligned, the jackpot state is entered, but in such a case, the probability is high. It does not shift to the state of time.

As shown in FIG. 22 (schematic view showing the light guide portion 532 of each drum in a plane), in the left symbol row and the middle symbol row, nine main symbols are arranged in descending order with the sub symbols in between. .. On the other hand, in the right symbol row, nine main symbols are arranged in ascending order with the sub symbols in between. Note that FIG. 22 shows a state in which the light emitting unit 553 provided in the light guide unit 532 emits light for convenience of explanation.

Returning to the description of FIG. 20, the variable display unit 500 is set with five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a left rising line L4, and a right rising line L5. Then, in each game, the variation display of the symbols is stopped in the order of the left symbol row → the right symbol row → the middle symbol row, and a predetermined combination of symbols (for example, the same number is attached) to any of the effective lines L1 to L5. If the variable display of all the symbol rows is completed in the state where the combination of the symbols is formed), the jackpot moving image is displayed as the occurrence of the normal jackpot result or the probabilistic jackpot result.

When the above-mentioned reach display is performed, the effective lines L1 to L5 are first terminated in the left variation display area DL and then the symbol variation display is terminated in the right variation display area DR. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a symbol having the same number in at least one of the above, and in a situation where the reach line is formed, the variation display of the symbol is performed in the medium variation display area DM. This will be the reach display. Then, when the open / close execution mode occurs, the symbol that is the same as the symbol forming the reach line is stopped and displayed on the reach line, and the variation display of the symbol in the middle symbol row is terminated.

Returning to the description of FIG. 19, the variation type counter CS is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of, for example, 0 to 198, reach the maximum value (that is, 198), and then return to 0. The variation type counter CS is used in the MPU 602 to determine the variation display time in the main display unit 87 and the variation display time of the symbol in the variable display unit 500. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time the normal processing described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal processing. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired when the variation pattern is determined at the start of the variation of the symbol by the variable display unit 500.

The electric accessory opening counter C4 is configured to, for example, add 1 in order within the range of 0 to 249, reach the maximum value (that is, 249), and then return to 0. The electric accessory opening counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric service holding area 633 of the RAM 604 at the timing when the game ball wins the through gate 84. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 91 to the open state according to the value of the stored electric accessory opening counter C4. For example, if C4 = 0 to 199, the electric accessory 91 is controlled to the open state, and if C4 = 200 to 249, the electric accessory 91 is not controlled to the open state.

As described above, in the MPU 602, the variable display time in the variable display unit 500 is determined by using at least the buffer value of the variable type counter CS, and the variable display time table storage area 623 of the ROM 603 is used for the determination. Be done. Further, in the MPU 602, the stop result in the main display unit 87 is determined by using the value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the value of the jackpot type counter C2 stored in the execution area AE. The stop result table stored in the result table storage area 624 is referenced.

Here, with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 23, the symbol display in the variable display unit 500 will be supplementarily described. As described above, the rotating body 525 shown in the present embodiment has a light guide unit 532, and a symbol is displayed by supplying light from the side light 528 to the light guide unit 532. The light guide unit 532 is transparent, and the background display device 529 can be visually recognized through the light guide unit 532. Therefore, when the variable display unit 500 is viewed from the front of the gaming machine, it looks as if the design is floating in front of the background. In the present embodiment, in particular, the background display device and the outer surface portion 551 which is the display surface of the light guide unit 532 are separated from each other, and the separation between the design and the background is coordinated.

Next, the relationship between the light emitting body 572 constituting the side light 528 and the symbol display position will be described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 24. In the present embodiment, the light emitting bodies 572 are arranged in a line along the end portion of the light guide portion 532 (see FIG. 17). Regarding these light emitting bodies 572, among the light emitting parts 553 formed in the light guide part 532, the light emitting body 572a for the upper stage that supplies light to the light emitting unit 553 located at the effective line L1 (upper stage) and the effective line. A light emitting body 572b for the middle stage that supplies light to the light emitting unit located at L2 (middle stage), a light emitting body 572c for the lower stage that supplies light to the light emitting unit located at the effective line L3 (lower stage), and an upper light emitting body. The upper light emitting body 572d at the central opening 85 arranged on the upper side of the light emitting body 572a, and the intermediate light emitting body 572e arranged between the upper light emitting body 572a and the middle light emitting body 572b. , For the lower limit of the intermediate illuminant 572f disposed between the middle illuminator 572b and the lower illuminant 572c and the central opening 85 disposed below the lower illuminator 572c. It is roughly classified into 572 g of illuminant.

When the light emitting body 572a for the upper stage is turned on, light is emitted from the light emitting unit 553 located in the upper stage, and the design appears (is displayed) in the upper stage. When the light emitting body 572b for the middle stage is turned on, light is emitted from the light emitting unit 553 located in the middle stage, and the design appears (is displayed) in the middle stage. When the light emitting body 572c for the lower stage is turned on, light is emitted from the light emitting unit 553 located in the lower stage, and the design emerges in the lower stage.

In the present embodiment, the light emitting unit 553 may move across the light supply range for the upper stage and the light supply range for the middle stage due to the rotation of the rotating body 525. These light supply ranges are connected via the light supply range by the intermediate illuminant 572e. It is avoided that the design becomes difficult to see when moving from the upper stage to the middle stage due to the supply of light from the intermediate light emitting body 572e. Further, the light emitting unit 553 may move across the light supply range for the middle stage and the light supply range for the lower stage due to the rotation of the rotating body 525. These light supply ranges are connected via the light supply range by the intermediate illuminant 572f. It is avoided that the design becomes difficult to see when moving from the middle stage to the lower stage due to the supply of light from the intermediate light emitting body 572f.

When the light emitting unit 553 moves from the outside of the central opening 85 onto the effective line L1, the light emitting unit 553 passes through the light supply range from the light emitting body 572d for the upper limit to reach the effective line L1. The display of the symbol will start before it reaches the target. Further, when the light emitting unit 553 moves from the top of the effective line L3 to the outside of the central opening 85, the light emitting unit 553 passes through the light supply range from the lower limit light emitting body 572g, so that the light emitting unit 553 passes from the effective line L3. The display of the design continues even after it comes off.

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

(Timer interrupt processing)
First, the timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is started periodically (for example, at a cycle of 2 msec) by MPU602.

In step S101, reading processing of various winning detection sensors is executed. That is, the state of various winning detection sensors connected to the main control device 162 is read, the state of the winning detection sensor is determined, and the detection information (winning detection information) is stored.

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

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

In the following step S104, a winning process for passing through is executed in association with winning the winning through the through gate 84. In the through winning process, it is determined whether or not the winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604, and if the flag is stored, it is stored in the electric service holding area. The value of the electric accessory release counter C4 updated in step S103 is stored in the electric accessory holding area on condition that the number of stored accessories is less than 4. In addition, a process for lighting the hold lamp unit 98 corresponding to the number of hold storages is executed for the notification / effect control device 140. When the winning detection flag for the through gate is stored in the various flag storage areas 635, the winning detection flag for the through gate is deleted and the winning process for the through gate is completed.

After executing the winning process for the through gate in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105, and in the step S105, the winning process for the operating port accompanying the winning of the operating ports 83a and 83b is executed, and the timer interrupt process is terminated. do.

(Prize processing for the operating port)
Here, the winning process for the operating port will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 26 and 27.

In step S201, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (winned) the upper operating port 83a. If it is determined that the game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a, the process proceeds to step S202, and a prize ball command for paying out three game balls is set in the payout control device 242.

In the following step S203, an external signal setting process is performed so that information indicating that the game ball has entered the upper operating port 83a is output to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC grasps that the ball has entered the upper operating port 83a. After that, in step S204, information acquisition processing for storing each value of the jackpot random number counter C1 and the jackpot type counter C2 is performed, and the main winning process is completed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the game ball has not won the upper operating opening 83a, the process proceeds to step S205. In step S205, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered (winned) the lower operating port 83b. If it is determined that the game ball has entered the lower operating port 83b, the process proceeds to step S206, and a prize ball command for paying out four game balls is set in the payout control device 242. The prize ball command set in steps S202 and S206 is transmitted to the payout control device 242 in the external output process S701 of the normal process described later.

In the following step S207, an external signal setting process is performed so that information indicating that the game ball has entered the lower operating port 83b is output to the hall computer HC on the game hall side. As a result, the hall computer HC grasps that the ball has entered the lower operating port 83b. After that, the information acquisition process is performed in step S204, and the main winning process is completed.

If a negative determination is made in both the processes of steps S201 and S205, that is, if there is no ball in either the upper operating port 83a or the lower operating port 83b, the main winning process is terminated as it is.

Here, the information acquisition process in step S204 will be described with reference to FIG. 27.

(Information acquisition process)
In the information acquisition process, first, in step S301, the number of start reserved balls N stored in the reserved number storage area FE of the reserved ball storage area 632, specifically, the information acquisition process of the upper operating port 83a and the lower operating port 83b. It is determined whether or not the number of start-holding balls N related to the triggering ball entry portion is less than the upper limit value (“4” in the present embodiment). If the start hold storage number N is the upper limit value, the information acquisition process is terminated as it is, and if it is less than the upper limit value, the start hold storage number N of the corresponding ball entry portion is incremented by 1 in step S302. At the same time, the total number of holds stored in the hold number storage area FE (hereinafter referred to as the common hold number CRN) is incremented by 1 in step S303.

In the following step S304, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, the reach random number counter C3, and the variable type counter CS updated in step S103 are stored in the first storage area of the free storage area of the hold area RE. That is, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the common hold number CRN incremented by 1 in step S302.

In the following step S305, the hold command setting process is executed so that the notification / staging control device 140, which is the control device on the sub side (secondary side), recognizes that the operation ports 83a and 83b have won a prize, and this information. End the acquisition process. The hold command set in the hold command setting process in step S305 is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in the external output process (step S401) of the normal process described later.

(Normal processing)
Next, the flow of normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The normal process is a process that is started after the main process that is started when the power is turned on is executed, and in the normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, the processes of steps S401 to S406 are executed as periodic processes having a cycle of 4 msec, and the counter update processes of steps S408 and S409 are executed in the remaining time.

In the normal processing, first, the external signal output processing is executed in step S401. In the external signal output processing in step S401, output data such as a command set in the timer interrupt processing or the previous normal processing is transmitted to each control device on the sub side. Specifically, the presence or absence of the prize ball command is determined, and if the prize ball command is set, it is transmitted to the payout control device 242. In addition, if various commands such as a change command, a type command, a change end command, and other effects commands, a hold command, and a shift command, which will be described later, are set, they are transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140. do.

Next, in step S402, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the fluctuation type counter CS is incremented by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, the counter value is cleared to 0. Then, the update value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 604.

In the following step S403, a game time control process for controlling the game in each game time is executed. In this game round control process, a jackpot determination, a setting of a variable display of a symbol by the variable display unit 500, a display control of a display unit for an operation port of the main display unit 87, and the like are performed.

After executing the game times control process in step S403, the process proceeds to step S404 to execute the game state transition process. By this game state transition process, the game state shifts to the open / close execution mode, the high probability mode, the high frequency support mode, and the like.

In the following step S405, an electric service support process for driving and controlling the electric accessory 91 provided in the actuating port unit 83 is executed. In this electric service support process, whether or not to open the electric service 91 is used by using the numerical information acquired from the electric service release counter C4 stored in the electric service holding area 633 of the RAM 604. A lottery is performed, and when the electric accessory is won in the open state, the electric accessory 91 is opened and closed. In addition, the display control of the through-gate display unit is performed so as to teach the lottery result of the electric service opening lottery.

As described above, the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode are set as the mode of support by the electric accessory 91, and the game state transition process shifts to either support mode. Through this process, if the high-frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604, the high-frequency support mode is set, and if the flag is not set, the low-frequency support mode is set.

In the electric service support process, it is determined whether or not the high frequency support mode is set by determining whether or not the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. Then, in the case of the high frequency support mode, the number of times that the electric accessory 91 is in the open state is set more than in the case of the low frequency support mode when the electric accessory 91 is won, and once. Set a long opening time. Further, in the high frequency support mode, when the electric accessory 91 is elected and the electric accessory 91 is opened a plurality of times, the next open state is started after one open state is completed. The closing time is set to be shorter than the one-time opening time.

By the way, when the mode shifts to the open / close execution mode, the support mode is forcibly set to the low frequency support mode even if the high frequency support flag is set in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604.

After that, in step S406, the game ball launch control process is executed. In the game ball launch control process, the solenoid 111 of the game ball launch mechanism 110 is excited once in a predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the power supply / launch control device 243. do. As a result, the game ball is launched toward the game area PE.

In the following step S407, it is determined whether or not the execution timing of the next normal process has been reached, that is, whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed from the start of the previous normal process. Then, the random number initial value counter CINI and the variation type counter CS are repeatedly updated within the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is reached.

That is, in step S408, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is added by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value, it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 604. Further, in step S409, the variation type counter CS is updated. Specifically, the fluctuation type counter CS is added by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum value, the counter values are cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the variation type counter CS is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 604.

The execution time of each process of steps S401 to S406 changes according to the state of the game. Therefore, the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process is not constant and fluctuates. Therefore, by repeatedly updating the random number initial value counter CINI using the remaining time, the random number initial value counter CINI (that is, the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1) can be updated at random, and similarly. The variation type counter CS can also be updated at random.

(Game times control process)
Next, the game times control process in step S501 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 29 to 30 and the like.

In the game time control process, first, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 29, it is determined in step S501 whether or not the open / close execution mode is in progress. When the open / close execution mode is in progress, the game rounds are performed without executing any of the processes after step S502, that is, the game round start processing of steps S503 to S505 and the game round progress processing of steps S506 to S508. End the control process.

If it is not in the open / close execution mode, it is determined in step S502 whether or not the operation port display unit of the main display unit 87 is in the variable display. If the display unit for the operation port is not in the variable display, the process proceeds to the game round start process of steps S503 to S505. In the game round start process, first, in step S503, it is determined whether or not the total number of start hold balls (common hold number CRN) is "0". When the common hold number CRN is "0", it means that the hold information is not stored in the hold ball storage area 632. Therefore, the game round control process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the common hold number CRN is not "0", the data setting process for setting the data stored in the hold area RE of the hold ball storage area 632 for variable display is executed in step S504. Further, after executing the fluctuation start processing for starting the fluctuation display in the main display unit 87 and the fluctuation display in the variable display unit 500 in step S505, the game round control process is terminated.

Here, the data setting process in step S504 and the fluctuation start process in step S505 will be described in detail.

(Data setting process)
In the data setting process, first, among the start hold ball numbers N stored in the hold number storage area FE, the one that is the target of the current setting process and the common hold number CRN are decremented by one. Subsequently, when the target of the setting process this time is based on the entry into the upper operating port 83a, the data stored in the first area Ra1 of the hold area RE is moved to the execution area AE. After that, the process of shifting the data (that is, the hold information) stored in each area Ra1 to Ra4 of the hold area RE is executed. This data shift process is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the first area Ra1 to the fourth area Ra4 to the lower area side, clearing the data of the first area Ra1 and the second area Ra2 → The data in each area is shifted such as 1st area Ra1, 3rd area Ra3 → 2nd area Ra2, 4th area Ra4 → 3rd area Ra3.

When the target of the setting process this time is based on the entry into the lower operating port 83b, the data stored in the first area Rb1 of the hold area RE is moved to the execution area AE. After that, the process of shifting the data (that is, the hold information) stored in each area Rb1 to Rb4 of the hold area RE is executed. This data shift process is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the first area Rb1 to the fourth area Rb4 to the lower area side, clearing the data of the first area Rb1 and the second area Rb2 → The data in each area is shifted such as 1st area Rb1, 3rd area Rb3 → 2nd area Rb2, 4th area Rb4 → 3rd area Rb3.

Subsequently, a shift command is set, which is information for causing the notification / effect control device 140 to recognize that the data in the hold area has been shifted. After that, this data setting process is terminated. The set shift command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). By receiving the shift time command, the notification / effect control device 140 grasps that the hold information has been shifted.

(Variation start processing)
Next, the fluctuation start processing in step S505 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the variation start process, first, in step S601, a win / fail determination process for determining whether or not the reserved information referred to in the current variation start process corresponds to the jackpot winning is executed. Specifically, among the information stored in the execution area AE, the information for determining the jackpot, that is, the information acquired from the information updated by the jackpot random number counter C1 is grasped. Then, when the winning / failing lottery mode is the low probability mode, the winning / failing table for the low probability mode stored in the winning / failing table storage area 621 of the ROM 603 is referred to, and the above-mentioned grasped information becomes the information corresponding to the big hit winning. When the winning / failing lottery mode is the high-probability mode, the winning / failing table for the high-probability mode stored in the winning / failing table storage area 621 of the ROM 603 is referred to, and the above-mentioned grasped information is a big hit. Identify whether it is included in the information corresponding to the winning.

In the following step S602, it is determined whether or not the result of the winning / failing determination process in step S601 is the result corresponding to the jackpot winning. If the result corresponds to the jackpot winning, the type determination process is executed in step S603.

In the type determination process, among the information stored in the execution area AE, the information for type determination, that is, the information acquired from the information updated by the jackpot type counter C2 is grasped. Further, with reference to the distribution table stored in the distribution table storage area 622 of the ROM 603, it is specified whether or not the information for the type determination grasped above is included in the information corresponding to the probability variation jackpot result. For details, if the hold information corresponds to the ball entering the upper operating port 83a, refer to the distribution table for the upper operating port 83a, and the holding information corresponds to the ball entering the lower operating port 83b. If so, the type is determined by referring to the distribution table for the lower operating port 83b.

In the following step S604, it is determined whether or not the type of the current jackpot winning is a probabilistic jackpot result based on the information specified in the type determination process in step S603. If it is a probability variation jackpot result, the stop result setting process for the probability variation jackpot is executed in step S605, and if it is not the probability variation jackpot result, the stop result setting process for the normal jackpot is executed in step S606. Further, if it is determined in step S602 that the big hit is not won, the stop result setting process for the time of loss is executed in step S607.

In each stop result setting process of steps S605 to S607, information on the mode of the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit 87 is referred to the stop result table stored in the stop result table storage area of the ROM 603. It is specified, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604. Further, in steps S605 and S606, information for specifying in the MPU 602 that the hit / fail determination result of the current game round is a probabilistic jackpot result or a normal jackpot result is stored in various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. Specifically, in step S605, the probability variation jackpot flag is stored, and in step S606, the normal jackpot flag is stored.

After executing any of the processes of steps S605 to S607, the variable display time setting process is executed in step S608. In the variable display time setting process, first, it is determined whether or not the winning or losing lottery has been won. Specifically, it is determined whether or not either the probabilistic jackpot flag or the normal jackpot flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. If the result of the winning / failing lottery is a wrong result, it is determined whether or not the reach display is generated by the variable display unit 500W in this game round. Specifically, when the value of the reach random number counter C3 stored in the execution area AE is a value corresponding to the occurrence of reach, the reach display is generated. When specifying whether or not reach has occurred using the value of the reach random number counter C3, the reach determination table stored in the reach determination table storage area of the ROM 603 is referred to.

If it is a jackpot result or even if it is a missed result, it corresponds to the reach generation, refer to the variation display time table for reach generation stored in the variation display time table storage area 623 of ROM 603. The variation display time information corresponding to the value of the variation type counter CS is acquired, and the variation display time information is set in the variation display time counter area (variation display time measuring means) provided in various counter areas 634 of the RAM 604. After that, this setting process ends.

That is, in the present embodiment, the reach display is executed when the result of the winning / failing lottery is the big hit winning result or when the result of the winning / failing lottery is out of order and the lottery for generating reach is won. ing.

Although the details will be described later, the reach display includes a normal reach display and a super reach display in which the variable display modes are different from each other. In the variation display time table for reach generation, variation display time information corresponding to each of the normal reach display and the super reach display is set, and by referring to the table, the variation display time information corresponding to each reach display can be obtained. To be acquired. Regarding the determination of the reach display type, a table corresponding to the reach display type and the value of the variation type counter CS is provided, and by referring to the table, the value of the variation type counter CS this time can be used. The corresponding reach display is determined.

On the other hand, if it is not a jackpot result and it is a missed result and does not correspond to the reach occurrence, the fluctuation of this time is referred to the fluctuation display time table for non-reach generation stored in the fluctuation display time table storage area 623. The fluctuation display time corresponding to the value of the type counter CS is acquired, and the fluctuation display time information is set in the fluctuation display time counter area. After that, this setting process ends.

The variable display time information when the reach does not occur is set so that the variable display time becomes shorter as the number of common hold number CRNs increases. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a configuration that does not depend on the number of common hold number CRNs may be used, and the variable display time may be set to be shorter as the number of common hold number CRNs is smaller. .. Also, in the situation where the support mode is the high frequency support mode, the reach is not selected so that the shorter variable display time is selected as compared with the case where the number of pending information is the same as in the situation where the support mode is the low frequency support mode. A variable display time table for generation is set, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the selected variable display time may be the same or may be the opposite of the above relationship. Further, the above configuration may be applied to the variable display time when the reach occurs, and the variable display time that is easy to be selected and the variable display time that is difficult to be selected are different between the jackpot winning time and the losing reach time. It may be configured. Further, the variable display time table for the probabilistic jackpot, the variable display time table for the normal jackpot, the variable display time table for the missed reach, and the variable display time table for the complete miss may be set individually.

As described above, the variation display time of each game is determined by using the presence / absence of reach occurrence, the type of reach display, the number of reserved information, the value of the variation type counter, and the like as parameters. However, the variable display time of each game is set with the contents of other pending information, specifically, the information for jackpot determination, the information for type determination, and the information for reach determination included in the other reserved information as parameters. It is decided without doing.

Returning to the description of the variation start process, after executing the variation display time setting process in step S608, the variation command and the type command are set in step S609. The fluctuation command includes information on whether or not reach has occurred and information on the fluctuation display time. In addition, the type command includes information on the game result. That is, the type command includes information on the probability variation jackpot result, information on the normal jackpot result, information on the missed result, and the like as information on the game result.

The variation command and the type command set in step S609 are transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). The notification / effect control device 140 determines the light emission pattern of the indicator lamp unit 26 and the sound output pattern from the speaker unit 29 in the game round based on the received fluctuation command and type command, and determines the output pattern of the determined effect. The indicator lamp unit 26 and the speaker unit 29 are controlled so that the contents are executed. Further, the notification / effect control device 140 determines the variation display pattern in the variable display unit 500 in the game round based on the received variation command and type command, and the determined variation display pattern is executed. Controls the variable display unit 500. After that, in step S610, the variation display of the pattern is started on the display unit for the operation port of the main display unit 87, and then the variation start process is terminated.

Returning to the description of the game round control process (FIG. 29), when the main display unit 87 is in the variable display, the game round progress process of steps S506 to S509 is executed. In the game round progress process, first, in step S506, it is determined whether or not the variation display time of the current game round has elapsed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the value of the fluctuation display time information stored in the fluctuation display time counter area of the RAM 604 is "0". As described above, the value of the variable display time information is set in the variable display time setting process. Further, the value of the set variable display time information is decremented (subtracted) by 1 each time the timer interrupt process (FIG. 25) is activated.

If the variation display time has not elapsed, the variation display process is executed in step S507. In the variable display processing, the display mode in the main display unit 87 is changed. After that, the game round control process is terminated.

If the variation display time has elapsed, the variation end process is executed in step S508. In the variable end processing, the information stored in the RAM 604 is specified in any of the processes of steps S505 to S507, and the main display unit is stopped and displayed so that the pattern corresponding to the information is stopped and displayed on the main display unit 87. Control 87.

In the following step S509, a variable end command is set. After that, the game round control process is terminated. The fluctuation end command set in step S509 is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). By receiving the variable end command, the notification / effect control device 140 displays the combination of the final stop symbols in the game round (final stop display).

As described above, in the present embodiment, the outline of the variable display mode of the symbol in the variable display unit 500 is specified by the notification / effect control device 140 with reference to the command from the main control device 162, and is based on the specific result. The details of the variable display mode are determined by the notification / effect control device 140. Specifically, in the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140, the variation display control process is executed as a part of the periodic process started in a predetermined cycle (for example, 2 msec), and the variation display of the symbol is displayed by this variation display control process. The outline of the aspect and the like are specified. Here, the variation display control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Variation display control processing)
In the variation display control process, first, it is determined in step S701 whether or not the game is being played, that is, whether or not the variable display unit 500 is executing the variation display of the symbol for one game. If it is determined that the game is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S702, and it is determined whether or not the variation command transmitted from the main control device 162 is received. If a negative determination is made in step S702, the variation display control process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step S702, the variation start processing is executed in step S703, and then the variation display control process is terminated.

Returning to the description of step S701, if an affirmative determination is made in step S701, that is, if it is determined that the game is in progress, the process proceeds to step S704. In step S704, it is determined whether or not the variation end command transmitted from the main control unit 162 is received. If a negative determination is made in step S704, the variable display control process ends after the variable intermediate process is executed in step S705. The variable mid-use process is a process of executing various effects and changing the determined effect in the game times started by the variable start process.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S704, the process proceeds to step S706, the variation end process is executed in step S706, and then the variation display control process ends. In the variable end processing, the variable display of the symbol and the effect being executed are terminated (fixed and stopped) so as to correspond to the lottery result related to the game times. Specifically, the variable display unit 500 is controlled so that the symbol is fixedly stopped. In such a process, the speaker unit 29 and the lamp unit 26 are driven and controlled to produce an effect corresponding to the fixed stop. After that, the process for ending this fluctuation is terminated.

(Process for starting fluctuation)
Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 32, the variation start processing in step S703 will be supplementarily described. The variation start process is a process for starting the effect for game rounds based on the reception of the variation command transmitted from the main control device 162. In the variation start processing, the variation display mode such as reach display and the symbol combination to be definitely displayed are determined as the effect for the game round.

In the fluctuation start processing, first, the fluctuation command received this time in step S801 is read, and the information on the presence / absence of reach occurrence and the information on the fluctuation display time are specified from the command. Further, as described above, when the variable command is transmitted from the main control unit 162, the type command is also transmitted. In step S1201, the type command received together with the variable command received this time is read, and the game result information such as the probability variation jackpot result information, the normal jackpot result information, or the deviation result information is specified from the command. Then, in step S2101, from the above-specified information, information on whether or not a jackpot has been won, information on the type of jackpot if the jackpot has been won, information on whether or not a reach has occurred if the jackpot has not been won, and variable display time. Information is grasped, and the grasped information is stored in the register of MPU652.

In the following step S802, based on the information grasped in step S801, it is determined whether or not the game result of the game times started this time is the game result corresponding to the jackpot result. In the case of a jackpot result, that is, a probabilistic jackpot result or a normal jackpot result, the effect setting process for the jackpot is executed in the following step S803.

In the big hit effect setting process, the stop result of the big hit symbol is determined (stop result determination process is performed). In the stop result determination process, when the result is a probability variation jackpot result, the stop result in which the same combination of specific symbols (main symbols with odd numbers) is established on one effective line L1 to L5 is obtained in this game. Determined as a stop result. Further, in the case of a normal jackpot result, the stop result in which the same combination of non-specific symbols (main symbols with even numbers) is established on one effective line L1 to L5 is used as the stop result of this game. decide.

The types of main symbols and effective lines L1 to L5 that are stopped and displayed when a big hit result is obtained are randomly determined by lottery or the like. Each effective line L1 to L5 and address information are stored in the final stop line table stored in the various table areas of the ROM 653, and the final stop line determined by the above processing is the final stop provided in the RAM 654. It is stored as address information in the line address storage area. At this time, the process of storing the determined stop result information in the stop result address storage area is executed. Also in the following description, the address information of the stop result determined by the various stop result determination processes is stored in the stop result address storage area of the RAM 654.

Further, in the effect setting process for the big hit, the variable display mode of the symbol for the big hit is determined (the variable display mode determination process (effect pattern determination process) is performed). As already explained, when a big hit result is obtained, the result is notified via a reach display. In the variation display mode determination process for reach display, the variation display pattern table for reach display stored in various table areas of ROM653 is acquired, and the game in the variation display time and type command of the variation command received this time. The effect pattern of the normal reach display or the super reach display corresponding to the result is determined. Further, a process of storing the determined address information of the variable display mode in the pattern address storage area of the RAM 654 is executed. Also in the variable display mode determination process shown below, the corresponding variable display pattern table is acquired from the variable display pattern table storage area of the ROM 653, and the effect pattern corresponding to the variable display time and the game result is determined. Then, the address information of the effect pattern determined by the effect pattern determination process is stored in the pattern address storage area of the RAM 654.

If it is determined in step S802 that the result is not a big hit, the process proceeds to step S804. In step S804, it is grasped whether or not reach occurs in this game round. When reach occurs, the process proceeds to step S805, and the effect setting process for generating reach is executed. In the effect setting process for generating reach, the combination of the outline of the effect and the symbol to be finally stopped is determined. Since the former is the same as the process of step S803, the description is incorporated. Since this process corresponds to the out-of-reach, the stop symbol is determined so that the symbol combination does not correspond to the jackpot result. That is, the stop result in which the combination of the reach symbols is established on one effective line L1 to L5 is determined as the stop result of this time. In this case, the type of combination of the out-of-reach symbols and the effective lines L1 to L5 are randomly determined by lottery or the like. Further, in this determination, the same combination of symbols is not established on any of the effective lines L1 to L5, and the symbol of the same middle symbol row as the symbol forming the reach line is placed in front of the reach line. Alternatively, the stop result on the effective line is determined so that the final stop is made at the stop position shifted later. After that, the process of storing the determined stop result information in the stop result address storage area is executed.

If it is determined in step S804 that no reach has occurred, the process proceeds to step S806. In step S806, the combination of the outline of the effect for normal deviation and the symbol to be finally stopped is determined. Since this process corresponds to complete deviation, the stop symbol is determined so that the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is not formed.

After executing any of the processes of step S803, step S805, and step S806, the process proceeds to step S807. In step S807, the display control (variable display control) of the variable display unit 500 is performed in order to execute the effect in the current game round. As a result, each drum unit 523 starts to rotate. Further, the drive control of the speaker unit 29 and the lamp unit 26 is started based on the effect patterns determined in step S803, step S805, and step S806 to start the effect for game rotation.

Hereinafter, the variable display mode of the symbol in the variable display unit 500 will be supplementarily described with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35. FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the variation display mode and the jackpot expectation degree, FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of normal reach not compatible with special changes described later, and FIG. 35 shows the flow of normal reach corresponding to special changes described later. It is a schematic diagram.

As shown in FIG. 33, the variation display mode of the symbol in the present embodiment is roughly classified into three types: complete deviation, normal reach, and super reach. For normal reach and super reach, the variable display mode of the symbol until the transition to the reach display is standardized, and at least until the transition to the reach display, the variable display mode of the symbol up to that point is changed to either normal reach or super reach. It is unclear whether to migrate.

When comparing normal reach and super reach, there is a difference in the scroll speed of the middle symbol after the reach display shift. Specifically, in the case of normal reach, the scroll speed of the medium symbol is set to be lower than in the case of super reach. Compared to normal reach, super reach has a higher expectation that it will result in a big hit and shift to a special game state. Therefore, it is assumed that the player who expects the transition to the special gaming state pays attention to the variable display of the symbol in anticipation of the transition to the super reach.

(Normal reach that does not support special changes)
FIG. 34 illustrates the flow of normal reach corresponding to the deviation result. As shown in FIG. 34 (a), when the game rotation is started based on the ball entering the operating ports 83a and 83b, the fluctuation display of the symbol in each fluctuation display area DL, DM, DR, and in detail, each fluctuation A scroll display is started in which the display areas DL, DM, and DR are vertically traversed from the upper side to the lower side.

After that, the stop display is performed in the order of the left symbol row → the right symbol row, and in the example shown in FIG. Two reach lines are formed by the "6" symbol.

At a predetermined timing immediately after the reach line is formed, as shown in FIG. 34 (c), the scroll speed of the middle symbol row becomes the first steady speed (low speed), and the left symbol row and the right symbol row are matched accordingly. Other symbols that do not form a reach line are hidden at. Specifically, by turning off the light emitting body 572bL for the middle stage of the left fluctuation display area DL and the light emitting body 572bR for the middle stage of the right fluctuation display area DR, the sub-designs displayed in the middle stage are hidden. ..

In the variable display unit 500 shown in the present embodiment, the light guide unit 532 and the side light 528 are used in combination for displaying the symbol, and the symbol is not displayed by stopping the supply of light from the side light 528. It becomes. It is not impossible to identify the pattern of the pattern of the light emitting section 553 formed in the light guide section 532 by paying close attention, but it is difficult to identify the pattern due to the fact that other symbols are emitting light in the surrounding area. Become.

After that, as shown in FIG. 34 (d) → FIG. 34 (e), the scroll display of the medium variation display area DM is continued, and finally the “4” symbol is displayed in the middle of the medium variation display area DM. Is stopped and displayed to clearly indicate to the player that the result is a disengagement.

In the present embodiment, the middle symbol row may be displayed again in a variable manner after the middle symbol row is stopped in a part of the game times related to the normal reach and the super reach, and the middle symbols may be replaced (hereinafter referred to as special change). When such a special change occurs, the expectation of a big hit is high in both normal reach and super reach. Here, the flow of the special change will be described with reference to FIG. 35.

(Normal reach for special changes)
When the game round is started based on the entry into the operating ports 83a and 83b, the fluctuation display of the symbol is displayed in each fluctuation display area DL, DM, DR, and more specifically, each fluctuation display area DL, DM, DR is displayed from above. The scroll display that vertically traverses the lower side is started. After that, the stop display is performed in the order of the left symbol row → the right symbol row, and in the example shown in FIG. 35 (a), one reach line is formed by the “7” symbol stopped and displayed on the effective line L2.

At a predetermined timing immediately after the reach line is formed, as shown in FIG. 35 (b), the scroll speed of the middle symbol row becomes the first steady speed (low speed), and the left symbol row and the right symbol row are matched accordingly. Other symbols that do not form a reach line are hidden at. Specifically, the light emitting body 572aL for the upper stage and the light emitting body 572cL for the lower stage of the left fluctuation display area DL, and the light emitting body 572aR for the upper stage and the light emitting body 572cR for the lower stage of the right fluctuation display area DR are turned off. Then, the sub-designs displayed in the upper and middle rows are hidden.

After that, as shown in FIG. 35 (c), the middle symbol string continues the scroll display, and as shown in FIG. 35 (d), the effective line L2 temporarily stops and displays the symbols other than the “7” symbol. As shown in FIG. 35 (e), the middle symbol row is hidden at the timing when the predetermined waiting period has elapsed after the middle symbol row is temporarily stopped and displayed. Specifically, the middle symbol row is hidden by turning off all the light emitting bodies 572 for the medium fluctuation display area DM.

After that, as shown in FIG. 35 (f), when the middle symbol string is redisplayed, the symbol located on the effective line L2 is replaced with the "8" symbol from the sub symbol, and the game round is missed. It is clearly stated that. After that, after the fixed display period elapses, the other hidden symbols are also redisplayed, and a total of 9 symbols of 3 × 3 are displayed.

Here, with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 36 to 38, the variable intermediate processing in the variable display control process (FIG. 31) will be described.

(Processing during fluctuation)
As shown in FIG. 36, in the variable processing, the switching of lighting / extinguishing of the side light 528 and the backlight 582 is determined in step S901, and the target for which light emission is forcibly restricted is determined in the subsequent step S902. In step S903, light emission control of the side light 528 and the backlight 582 and drive control of the motor 526 are performed based on the setting items in steps S901 and S902.

(Light emission / drive setting processing)
As shown in FIG. 37, in the light emission / drive setting process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the special variation display transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654. This special variation display transition flag is a flag that is stored when the above-mentioned special change of the symbol is performed and is deleted when the corresponding game round is completed. If a negative determination is made in step S1001, the process proceeds to step S1002.

In step S1002, it is determined whether or not the reach display transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654. The reach display transition flag is a flag that is stored when the reach display is parallel and is deleted when the transition to the special change or the corresponding game round is completed. If a negative determination is made in step S1002, the process proceeds to step S1003.

In step S1003, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to stop and display the left symbol column in the left fluctuation display area DL. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1003, the process proceeds to step S1004 to execute the stop processing of the left drum (rotating body 525L). Specifically, a flag for stopping the output of the drive signal to the motor 526L for the left drum is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, stop control is performed so that the symbol is stopped and displayed in the left fluctuation display area DL based on this flag and the stop symbol determined at the start of fluctuation. Become.

If a negative determination is made in step S1003, the process proceeds to step S1005. In step S1005, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to stop and display the right symbol column in the right fluctuation display area DR. If a negative determination is made in step S1005, the main light emission / drive control process is terminated as it is.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1005, the process proceeds to step S1006 to execute the stop processing of the right drum (rotating body 525R). Specifically, a flag for stopping the output of the drive signal to the motor 526R for the right drum is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, stop control is performed so that the symbol is stopped and displayed in the right fluctuation display area DR based on this flag and the stop symbol determined at the start of fluctuation. Become.

After executing the stop processing in step S1006, the process proceeds to step S1007, and it is determined whether or not the game times this time correspond to the reach display. If a negative determination is made in step S1007, the main light emission / drive setting process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1007, the process proceeds to step S1008.

In step S1008, a process for partially turning off the side light is executed. In this partial extinguishing process, for the side light 528L of the left drum and the side light 528R of the right drum, in order to hide the symbols that do not form the reach line, a part of the light emitting body 572 is extinguished. Set the flag. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, light emission control is performed so as to turn off a part of the light emitting body 572 based on this flag and the stop position (effective line) of the symbol determined at the start of fluctuation. ..

In the following step S1009, a process for lighting the backlight 582 of the background display device 529 is performed. Specifically, a flag for turning on the backlight 582 is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, light emission control is performed so as to turn on the backlight 582 based on this flag.

In the present embodiment, the background is lit up with the transition to the reach display, suggesting that a big hit may occur. Although the details will be described later, by turning on the backlight 582, the light emitting unit 553 corresponding to the hidden symbol is made inconspicuous.

After that, in step S1010, the reach display transition flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654, and the main light emission / drive setting process is completed.

Returning to the description of step S1002, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1002, that is, if the reach display transition flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654, the process proceeds to step S1011. In step S1101, it is determined whether or not it is the transition timing to the special variation display. That is, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to execute the special change as shown in FIG. If a negative determination is made in step S1011, the process proceeds to step S1012. In step S1012, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to change the variable display speed (scroll speed) of the middle symbol sequence. If a negative determination is made in step S1012, the main light emission / drive setting process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1021, the process for changing the variable display speed is executed in step S1013, and then the main light emission / drive setting process is terminated.

In the variable display speed change process, a flag for changing the variable display speed of the middle symbol is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, the drive control of the motor 526 of the middle drum is performed based on this flag so that the fluctuation display speed of the middle symbol sequence becomes a predetermined speed. Specifically, when the reach display this time is normal reach, the rotation speed of the rotating body 525M is controlled so that the fluctuation display speed of the middle symbol row becomes the first predetermined speed (low speed), which is super reach. In this case, the rotation speed of the rotating body 525M is controlled so that the variable display speed becomes the second predetermined speed (high speed).

Returning to the description of step S1011 and when an affirmative determination is made in step S1011, that is, when it is the transition timing to the special variation display, the process proceeds to step S1014. In step S1014, a process for pausing the middle drum (rotating body 525M) is executed. Specifically, a flag for pausing the middle drum is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, the output of the drive signal to the motor 526M for the middle drum is stopped based on this flag. As a result, the three symbols set at the start of the fluctuation are stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM. For the middle symbols that are temporarily stopped on the reach line at this point, the symbol combinations in the reach line are set to be the symbol combinations corresponding to the off result.

Subsequently, in step S1015, the reach display transition flag stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654 is erased, and in step S1016, the special variation display transition flag is set in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654. The drive setting process ends.

Returning to the description of step S1001, when an affirmative determination is made in step S1001, that is, when the special variation display transition flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 654, the special variation display process is performed in step S1016. After executing, the main light emission / drive setting process is terminated. Hereinafter, the special variation display process will be described with reference to FIG. 38.

(Processing for special fluctuation display)
In the special variation display process, first, in step S1101, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to start the special change, that is, the symbol replacement display. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1101, the process proceeds to step S1102.

In step S1102, the process for turning off the side light for the middle drum is executed. Specifically, a flag for turning off the side light is set. In the light emission / drive control process of step S903, a process of turning off the side light for the middle drum is performed based on this flag. As a result, each symbol constituting the middle symbol row is hidden, and each symbol temporarily stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM is hidden.

In the following step S1103, the process for driving the middle drum is executed. Specifically, a flag for restarting the middle drum is set. In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, the middle drum is rotated based on this flag. That is, the middle drum rotates under the condition that the light is not supplied from the side light 528M. For the middle drum, the light emitting unit 553 corresponding to the symbol (final stop symbol) constituting the symbol combination (final stop symbol combination) corresponding to the game result of this time is positioned on the reach line. Rotate.

Regarding the rotation direction of the middle drum at the time of special change, (1) the number of times the boundary portion BP1 passes through the medium fluctuation display area DM is minimized, and (2) the rotation amount is minimized. It is stipulated based on two conditions. For example, when the middle drum is rotated in the forward direction, one boundary portion BP1 passes through the medium fluctuation display area DM, and when the middle drum is rotated in the opposite direction, two boundary portions BP1 are in the middle. When passing through the variable display area DM, the positive direction is set as the rotation direction. Regarding each of these conditions (1) and (2), (1) is prioritized over (2), and the boundary portion BP1 sets the medium variation display area DM in the situation where the symbol is hidden. By moving, it is difficult for the player to understand the fact that the middle drum is rotating.

Returning to the description of step S1101, when a negative determination is made in the step S1101, it is determined in step S1104 whether or not it is the end timing of the symbol replacement (special change). If a negative determination is made in step S1104, the special variation display process is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1104, the process proceeds to step S1105. In step S1105, a process for partially lighting the side light for the middle drum is executed. Specifically, a flag for partial lighting is set.

In the light emission / drive control process in step S903, a partial lighting process of the middle drum side light is executed based on this flag. Specifically, the light supply is started to the upper, middle, and lower parts of the medium fluctuation display area DM located on the reach line, and the light supply is stopped to the other parts. do. For example, when the reach line formed this time straddles the middle stage, the light emitting body 572b corresponding to the middle stage is turned on, and the other light emitting bodies 572a, 572c to 572g are left off. As a result, the middle symbols are suddenly replaced, and the impact on the display of the game result can be strengthened.

Hereinafter, the flow of reach display will be supplementarily described with reference to the timing charts of FIGS. 39 and 40. FIG. 39 is a timing chart showing the flow of reach display not compatible with special changes, and FIG. 40 is a timing chart showing the flow of reach display corresponding to special changes.

(Reach display that does not support special changes)
As shown in FIG. 39, at the timing of ta1 when the game round related to the reach display not compatible with special changes starts, the side lights 528L, 528M, 528R of each drum are all lit, and the background display device 529 is backed up. The light 582 is turned off. In this state, the drive signal is output to each of the motors 526L, 526M, and 526R, so that the scroll display of the symbol sequence is started in each variation display area DL, DM, and DR.

At the timing of ta2 after the start of fluctuation, the output of the drive signal to the motor 526L for the left drum is stopped, and the left drum is stopped at the preset rotation position. As a result, the three symbols preset in the left fluctuation display area DL are stopped and displayed. At the subsequent timing of ta3, the output of the drive signal to the motor 526R for the right drum is stopped, and the right drum is stopped at the preset rotation position. As a result, the three symbols preset in the right fluctuation display area DR are stopped and displayed.

In the example shown in FIG. 39, the reach line is formed by stopping the same symbol on the preset effective line, and the process shifts to the reach display. At the timing of this ta3, the backlight 582 of the background display device 529 is turned on, and the transition to the reach display is emphasized. Further, at the timing of ta3, a part of the light emitting body 572L constituting the side light 528L is hidden so that the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the left fluctuation display area DL and do not form the reach line are hidden. It is turned off. Further, a part of the light emitting body 572R constituting the side light 528R is turned off so that the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the right fluctuation display area DR and do not form the reach line are also hidden. Even under this situation, all the light emitting bodies 572M constituting the side light 528M for the middle drum are kept lit.

At the timing of ta4 after the shift to the reach display, the symbol is stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM, and the symbol combination corresponding to the game result is formed. As a result, the game result is clearly shown to the player. After that, at the timing of ta5 after the fixed display period of the symbol has elapsed, the light emitters 527 constituting each side light 528 are fully turned on, and the backlight 582 is turned off.

(Reach display for special changes)
As shown in FIG. 40, at the timing of tb1 when the game round related to the reach display corresponding to the special change starts, the side lights 528L, 528M, 528R of each drum are all lit, and the backlight of the background display device 529 is lit. 582 is turned off. In this state, the drive signal is output to each of the motors 526L, 526M, and 526R, so that the scroll display of the symbol sequence is started in each variation display area DL, DM, and DR.

At the timing of tb2 after the start of fluctuation, the output of the drive signal to the motor 526L for the left drum is stopped, and the left drum is stopped at the preset rotation position. As a result, the three symbols preset in the left fluctuation display area DL are stopped and displayed. At the subsequent timing of tb3, the output of the drive signal to the motor 526R for the right drum is stopped, and the right drum is stopped at the preset rotation position. As a result, the three symbols preset in the right fluctuation display area DR are stopped and displayed.

In the example shown in FIG. 40, the reach line is formed by stopping the same symbol on the preset effective line, and the process shifts to the reach display. At the timing of tb3, the backlight 582 of the background display device 529 is turned on, and the transition to the reach display is emphasized. Further, at the timing of tb3, a part of the light emitting body 572L constituting the side light 528L is hidden so that the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the left fluctuation display area DL and do not form the reach line are hidden. It is turned off. Further, a part of the light emitting body 572R constituting the side light 528R is turned off so that the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the right fluctuation display area DR and do not form the reach line are also hidden. Even under this situation, all the light emitting bodies 572M constituting the side light 528M for the middle drum are kept lit.

At the timing of tb4 after the shift to the reach display, the symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM, and the symbol combination corresponding to the deviation result is formed. After the timing of tb4 is the above special change (special variation display). The series of flows up to the timing of tb4 is the same as the flow up to the timing of ta4 in the reach display not compatible with the special change shown in FIG. 39.

At the timing of tb5 where a predetermined waiting period (a period slightly shorter than the definite display period) has elapsed from the timing of tb4 in which the symbol combination corresponding to the deviation result is temporarily displayed, the side light 528M for the middle drum is configured. All the light emitters 572M are turned off, and the symbol that has been stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM is temporarily hidden. The replacement of symbols due to special changes may be repeated up to three times, but the example shown in FIG. 40 illustrates the case where this replacement occurs twice.

Immediately after the light emitter 572M is hidden at the timing of tb5, a drive signal is output to the motor 526M for the middle drum, and the light emitting unit 553M located on the reach line is replaced. At the timing of tb6 after the replacement is completed, the light emitting body 572M corresponding to the reach line is turned on, and the other light emitters are kept turned off. This makes it appear as if the middle symbol on the reach line was suddenly replaced with another symbol.

The symbol combination displayed at the timing of tb6 also corresponds to the deviation result, and then the second special change is started. Specifically, at the timing of tb7 when a predetermined waiting period (a period slightly shorter than the definite display period) has elapsed from the timing of tb6 where the symbol combination is displayed, the light emitting body constituting the side light 528M for the middle drum All 572M are turned off, and the symbols that have been stopped and displayed in the medium fluctuation display area DM are temporarily hidden.

Immediately after the light emitter 572M is hidden at the timing of tb7, a drive signal is output to the motor 526M for the middle drum, and the light emitting unit 553M located on the reach line is replaced. At the timing of tb8 after the replacement is completed, the light emitting body 572M corresponding to the reach line is turned on, and the other light emitters are kept turned off. This makes it appear as if the middle symbol on the reach line was suddenly replaced with another symbol. Since the game times shown in FIG. 40 correspond to the deviation result, the symbol combination finally stopped and displayed (confirmed display) also corresponds to the deviation result.

The backlight 582 is maintained in the lit state during the special change described in detail above, and the light from the backlight 582 is radiated to the front of the gaming machine through each drum (light guide unit 532). This is a device for suppressing the pattern of the light emitting unit 553 from appearing when the ambient light from the lighting of the game hall or the like moves into the light guide unit 532.

For each drum of the variable display unit 500 described in detail above (specifically, the light guide unit 532), a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557 divided in the rotation direction are combined, and between the light guide panels 555 and 557. Boundary site BP1 is generated in. Increasing the chances that these boundary portions BP1 are located in the variable display area hinders the appearance of the variable display unit 500 and the improvement of the degree of attention to the game by performing the above-mentioned various display effects. It is worried that it will be. In the present embodiment, the relationship between the arrangement of the light emitting unit 553 formed in the light guide unit 532, the position of the boundary portion BP1 and the variable display region is devised in order to suppress the occurrence of such inconvenience. One of the features is that it is. Hereinafter, the device will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 41. Although the left drum is illustrated in FIG. 41, the relationship between the boundary portion BP1 and the variable display region is the same for the middle drum and the right drum. Note that FIG. 41 shows a state in which the light emitting unit 553 is emitting light for convenience of explanation.

As shown in FIG. 22, the light guide section 532 of each drum is provided with a plurality of light emitting sections 553 arranged in the rotation direction. These light emitting sections 553 correspond to the main symbol and the sub symbol, and the light supplied from the side light 528 is emitted from the light emitting section 553 to be used for each of the main symbols "1" to "9" and "9". A sub-design that imitates a "seashell" is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 41 (a), the size of the main symbol in the rotation direction is larger than the size of the sub symbol. After the boundary portion BP1 is arranged between the main symbol and the sub symbol, a blank portion formed between the boundary portion BP1 and the main symbol is formed between the boundary portion BP1 and the sub symbol. It is biased toward the main symbol so that it is smaller than the blank area.

In the example shown in FIG. 41, the boundary portion BP1 is provided between the "6" symbol (specifically, the light emitting portion 553 for the "6" symbol) and the sub-design (specifically, the light emitting portion 553 for the sub-design). ing. In the state where the symbol "6" is stopped at the upper stage in the variable display area, the boundary portion BP1 is located above the upper limit position of the variable display area, that is, in a range invisible from the front of the gaming machine (FIG. 41 (b). )reference). On the other hand, when the "6" symbol is stopped directly under the variable display area (outside the frame), the boundary portion BP1 is below the lower limit position of the variable display area, that is, in a range that cannot be seen from the front of the gaming machine. It is located (see FIG. 41 (c)).

Generally, in order to facilitate manufacturing, it is assumed that the boundary portion is set so that the distance from the light emitting part for the sub-design and the distance from the light emitting part for the main symbol are the same. To. However, with such a configuration, there is concern that it will be difficult to increase the chances of stopping the boundary portion at a position outside the variable display area. In this regard, according to the configuration shown in the present embodiment, the boundary portion BP1 is visible to the player even when the symbol closest to the boundary portion is stopped at the upper or lower stage of the variable display area. By reducing the chances, the occurrence of the above inconvenience can be suppressed. As described above, the position of the boundary portion BP1 shown in the present embodiment has a clear technical significance of making the boundary portion BP1 inconspicuous.

Further, one of the features of the present embodiment is that the boundary portion BP1 is suppressed from being conspicuous while the scroll display of the symbol is performed by rotating each drum. Hereinafter, the device will be described with reference to FIG. 42. FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the light emission control process, and FIG. 42 (b) is a schematic diagram showing the state of the shift subject to regulation.

As described with reference to FIG. 36, the variable processing process executed by the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140 includes the above-mentioned light emission / drive setting process, light emission regulation process, and light emission / drive control process. As shown in FIG. 42 (a), in the light emission regulation process, first, the position of the boundary portion BP1 is specified in step S1201. Next, among the light emitting bodies 572 constituting the side light 528, the one to be regulated in step S1202 is specified. Specifically, a light emitting body located on the side of the boundary portion BP1 specified in step S1201 is specified. In the following step S1203, the light emitting body specified in step S1202 is set as the target of light emission regulation. In the light emission / drive control process, the target set in step S1203 is turned off regardless of the content set in the light emission / drive setting process.

As shown in FIG. 42 (b), when the boundary portion BP1 moves with the rotation of the symbol row, the light emitting body 572 located on the side of the boundary portion BP1 is switched to the extinguished state so as to follow the movement. .. That is, the supply of light to the boundary portion BP1 is suppressed. With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the boundary portion BP1 from being conspicuous due to light emission or the like.

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

In the variable display unit 500, the design is displayed by emitting the light from the side light 528 from the light emitting unit 553 formed in the light guide unit 532. The design can be switched on / off by turning on / off the side light 528, and the color of the design can be changed by changing the emission color. In this way, constructing a variable display unit (corresponding to the "picture display means") by using the light guide unit 532 and the side light 528 in combination is to diversify the display mode of the design and improve the degree of attention to the game. Is preferable.

When the light from the side light 528 is supplied to the non-supplied state, the symbol becomes invisible or difficult to see (non-display). By making it possible to switch between display and non-display of the symbol in this way, it is possible to limit the information provided to the player by the variable display unit 500 according to the game situation. In addition, it can contribute to the diversification of display modes when variable display of symbols is performed.

By adopting a configuration in which the light from the side light 528 is applied to the end surface 554 of the light guide unit 532, it is possible to suppress the light source from being noticeable when visually checking the design.

When changing the symbol displayed in the variable display area, the rotating body 525 (light guide unit 532) rotates in the above supply state to make the symbol appear to move in the direction of the operation. Can be done. As described above, if the light guide portion 532 is moved instead of the light source, it is possible to preferably avoid that the pattern change mode is restricted by the length of the wiring or the like. In addition, since the position of the light source can be fixed, it is possible to replace the symbols displayed at the same position, and even when the symbols are displayed in a variable manner, the points that the player should pay attention to are unified. be able to. This is a preferable configuration for suppressing overlooking of the symbol display and reducing the fatigue of the player.

The operating direction of the light guide unit 532 is set to be orthogonal to the light irradiation direction of the side light 528 (specifically, the light emitting body 572). With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress a change in the distance between the light irradiation target (end face 554) and the light emitting body 572 in the light guide unit 532 as the light guide unit 532 operates. This is preferable in order to prevent the light supplied from the light emitting unit 553 from being insufficient due to the light diffused by the time the light from the light emitting body 572 is irradiated to the end face 554.

The light emitting units 553 are provided side by side in the operating direction of the light guide unit 532, and the light emitting body 57 2 constituting the side light 528 is also provided side by side in the operating direction of the light guide unit 532. By individually controlling the light emission of these light emitting bodies 572, it is possible to change the number of pictures displayed in the variable display area. In this way, the number of symbols displayed by using a plurality of light emitting bodies 572 that can be individually controlled to emit light can be increased or decreased according to the game situation, etc., thereby increasing the expressive power of the variable display unit 500. It can be dramatically improved.

When the light emitting part 553 is composed of minute irregularities, the position and shape of the light emitting part 553 can be completely visually specified because the ambient light such as the lighting of the game hall is diffused in the light emitting part. It becomes difficult to make it impossible. That is, there is a possibility that the shape and position of the light emitting portion 553 can be grasped by paying close attention. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, if the light is irradiated from the backlight 582 to the light guide unit 532, the ambient light or the like is distracted by the light from the backlight 582, and the shape of the light emitting unit 553 is formed. And it can be difficult to grasp the position. This is preferable in order to enhance the impact when the symbol suddenly appears by switching the supply state / non-supply state of the side light 528.

When operating the light guide unit 532, it cannot be denied that the light guide unit 532 may be specified to be in operation by using the light emission unit 553 as a mark by carefully squinting. This is a factor that reduces the impact when the light guide unit 532 is operated while the side light 528 is not supplied and the symbols are suddenly replaced. Therefore, when the symbols are replaced, as shown in the above embodiment, the supply of light to the light guide portion 532 by the side light 528 is stopped, and the light is irradiated to the light guide portion 532 by the backlight 582. If the light guide unit 532 is operated under such circumstances, the ambient light or the like can be distracted by the light from the backlight 582. This makes it difficult to tell that the light guide unit 532 is in operation, and can suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience. Since the light from the backlight 582 is applied to the entire variable display area, it is possible to preferably exert the effect of making it difficult to identify the shape of the light emitting unit 553 and the operating state of the light guide.

By rotating the light guide portion 532 forming a substantially annular shape, the light supply location in the light guide portion 532 (end surface 554) is changed. As a result, the design is varied and displayed on the light guide unit 532. Since the light guide unit 532 has a substantially annular shape, it is possible to continue the variable display of the design without reversing the rotation direction of the light guide unit 532. That is, it is possible to prevent the light guide unit 532 from becoming excessively large in performing dynamic display using the light guide unit 532 to enhance expressiveness and the like. This is a preferable configuration for improving the attention of the player.

The distance from the side light 528 to the end surface 554 of the light guide unit 532 is constant at any rotation position. Therefore, it is not necessary to change the position and orientation of the side light 528 according to the change of the light supply location (for example, for the purpose of ensuring the operation gap). Therefore, the configuration related to the light supply in the variable display unit 500 can be simplified.

The side light 528 is configured so that the light irradiation direction of the light emitting body 572 (LED) is the same as the rotation center axis CL, and the light irradiation direction and the arrangement direction (rotation direction) of the light emitting unit 553. ) Will intersect. That is, when a plurality of light emitting units 553 are used in combination, it is avoided that the light emitting units 553 are arranged in the light irradiation direction. Therefore, when switching the displayed symbol according to the rotation position, it is possible to suppress the supply of light to the symbol that is not the display target, and the symbol that should not be originally displayed emits a faint light. Occurrence of inconvenience can be suitably avoided.

In the configuration in which the light guide portion 532 has a substantially annular shape, the light guide portion 532 is provided with an insertion portion 561 into which a portion (end portion) extending from the frame 531 (rim 536) is inserted, and the insertion portion 561 is provided. By disposing the side light 528 in the portion 561, the following effects can be expected. That is, even when the movement of the light guide unit 532 becomes unstable, the position shift of the light guide unit 532 can be suppressed at a location (insertion portion) close to the light irradiation position. As a result, the light supply function can be stably exerted.

Further, since the insertion portion 561 is provided in the base body 524 holding the rotating body 525, the gap with the light guide portion 532 can be minimized. This is preferable in terms of suppressing strong interference between the insertion portion 561 and the light guide portion 532, and suppressing light leakage from the insertion portion 561.

In the configuration in which the light guide unit 532 is movable, when the light guide unit 532 and the insertion unit 561 come into contact with each other and the light guide unit 532 is damaged, light leakage or the like is likely to occur at that portion. I am concerned. This is a factor that reduces the efficiency of supplying light to the light emitting unit 553. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, a gap is formed between the insertion portion 561 and the outer surface portion 551 and the inner surface portion 552 of the light guide portion 532 to avoid contact between the insertion portion 561 and the light guide portion 532. By doing so, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suitably suppressed.

By dividing the above-mentioned light guide unit 532 into a plurality of pieces (light guide panels 555 to 557) in the rotation direction, it is possible to contribute to facilitation of manufacturing and reduction of manufacturing cost. However, in such a configuration, if the portion that becomes the boundary (edge) of each piece is caught by the open portion (entrance portion) of the insertion portion, it is assumed that the behavior of the light guide portion 532 is disturbed. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by forming the gap so as to increase toward the open portion and suppressing the catching between the edge and the insertion portion 561. In the configuration where the open portion (entrance portion) is expanded, light easily leaks from this portion. Therefore, by directing the open portion toward the rear side of the gaming machine, even if light leaks, it can be made inconspicuous.

As shown in the above embodiment, the light guide section 532 can be formed by a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557 juxtaposed in the rotation direction, whereby the shape of the light guide section 532 can be made substantially annular. can. With such a configuration, it is possible to contribute to facilitation of manufacturing and reduction of manufacturing cost of the drum unit 523 as compared with the case where the light guide plate of 1 is formed in an annular shape, for example. Here, when a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557 arranged side by side are connected to each other, distortion due to manufacturing variation or the like may occur. In a configuration in which light is supplied to the end face 554 of the light guide unit 532, there is a concern that the pattern display function may not be exhibited well due to the variation in the positional relationship between the side light 528 and the end face 554 due to the influence of such distortion. .. In this respect, as shown in the present embodiment, by mounting the light guide panels 555 to 557 on the frame 531 in a non-fixed state, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed. This is preferable in order to suppress the deterioration of the appearance when the light guide unit 532 is used to display the variation of the design and to improve the attention of the player.

As described above, when a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557 are combined to form one light guide unit 532, the boundary portion BP1 between the light guide panels 555 to 557 stands out, so that the light guide unit 532 looks good. Decreases. This is not preferable in order to improve the attention of the player. Further, in the configuration in which the light guide portion 532 is fixed to the frame 531 the fixed portion of the light guide portion 532 to the frame 531 may be different in appearance from the non-fixed portion. Here, in the present embodiment, the ends of the light guide panels 555 to 557 on both sides in the rotation direction are free ends, and the fixed points are kept away from the boundary portion BP1 between the light guide panels 555 to 557. There is. As a result, it is suppressed that the line of sight is guided to the boundary portion BP1 when the fixed portion enters the player's field of view, and the light guide portion 532 of 1 is configured by the combination of the plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557. It is possible to suppress the deterioration of the appearance due to this.

When the light guide unit 532 is composed of a plurality of light guide panels 555 to 557, it is preferable to make the boundary portion BP1 of the light guide panels 555 to 557 as inconspicuous as possible. Here, the light emitting body 572 (LED) constituting the side light 528 is configured to irradiate light in a predetermined direction, and the end faces of the light guide panels 555 to 557 on both sides in the rotation direction extend in the predetermined direction. In other words, by making the configuration in which the irradiation direction of the light and the extending direction of the boundary portion BP1 coincide with each other, it is possible to suppress the emission of the boundary portion BP1. This is preferable in order to improve the appearance. The boundary portion BP1 is located in the non-arranged region (blank region) of the symbol, but since the boundary portion BP1 extends in the direction of the rotation center axis CL, the boundary portion BP1 is taken into consideration in the design. It is possible to prevent the non-dispersed region from becoming excessively large.

If the number of light guide panels (number of divisions) is excessively large, there are many chances that the boundary portion between the light guide panels stops in the variable display area (effective line). It is feared that this will be a factor that deteriorates the appearance of the variable display unit. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, the number of divisions is defined so that the number of symbols arranged on each light guide panel 555 to 557 is larger than the upper limit number of symbols that can be stopped in the variable display area. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the chance that the boundary portion BP1 stops in the variable display area. As a result, the harmful effects of using a plurality of light guide panels in combination can be alleviated.

<Modification 1>
In the first embodiment, the side light 528 as a "light emitting unit" is arranged on the base body 524 that rotatably holds the rotating body 525 (drum), but the present invention is not limited to this. not. It is also possible to mount the rotating body 525 with a configuration corresponding to the side light 528. However, in such a configuration, the weight of the drum is further increased, and it is assumed that the responsiveness at the time of rotation / stop is lowered. Therefore, it is preferable to dispose the side light 528 on the base body 524 as shown in the first embodiment to reduce the weight of the rotating body 525.

<Modification 2>
In the first embodiment described above, a part of the light emitting body 572 (which is a source of light to the boundary portion BP1) is turned off according to the rotation position of the boundary portion BP1 to the boundary portion BP1. It was configured to regulate the supply of light. The specific configuration for restricting the supply of light to the boundary portion BP1 is arbitrary, and for example, a shielding means such as a sealing material that covers the boundary portion BP1 from the side may be provided.

However, considering that the end portion of the light guide portion 532 is inserted into the insertion portion 561, the possibility that the shielding means may come into contact with the wall surface or the like of the insertion portion 561 is denied due to the influence of manufacturing variation and deterioration over time. Can not. If the gaming machine continues to operate under such a situation where there is a possibility of contact, the shielding means may be worn and the shielding function may be deteriorated. As a countermeasure, for example, by increasing the gap between the light guide portion 532 and the insertion portion 561, the occurrence of such an inconvenience can be suppressed, but the large gap is a function of suppressing light leakage from the insertion portion 561. It is not preferable for improving the light supply efficiency. When such circumstances are taken into consideration, as shown in the first embodiment, the durability of the gaming machine can be suitably improved by restricting the supply of light to the boundary portion BP1 by controlling the light emission. There is a technical significance that it can be done.

<Modification 3>
In the first embodiment, the light guide panels 555 to 557 constituting the light guide unit 532 are not coupled to each other, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the light guide panels 555 to 557 are coupled to each other. May be good. However, in view of the fact that the light guide panels 555 to 557 may be deformed such as distortion during or after manufacturing, the light guide panels 555 to 557 are not coupled to each other and such deformation is allowed (boundary portion BP1). It is preferable to have a configuration (absorbed by).

<Modification example 4>
In the first embodiment, a gap is provided in the boundary portion BP1 of the light guide panels 555 to 557, but the configuration in which the light guide panels 555 to 557 are brought into contact with each other at the boundary portion BP1 is not denied.

<Modification 5>
In the first embodiment, the inner surface of the insertion portion 561 and the light guide portion 532 are not in contact with each other, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a guide roller for guiding the light guide portion 532 may be provided on the insertion portion 561 side. However, the light path of the light guide portion 532 may change due to scratches or the like on the surface thereof, and the supply efficiency to the light emitting portion 553 may decrease. In view of such circumstances, it is preferable to dispose a protective member or the like in the portion of the light guide portion 532 that comes into contact with the guide roller.

<Modification 6>
In the first embodiment described above, the rotating body 525 is attached to the base body 524 via the motor 526, but the base body is increased in weight due to the rotating body 525 having the light guide portion 532. It is also possible to rotatably hold the rotating body 525 by the 524 and operate the rotating body 525 by the motor 526.

<Modification 7>
In the first embodiment, the light guide unit 532 is composed of a combination of three light guide panels 555 to 557, but the number of light guide panels 532 is arbitrary. However, even in such a case, it is preferable that the number of light emitting portions (that is, the number of symbols) formed in one light guide panel is larger than the upper limit number of symbols that can be stopped in the variable display area. ..

<Modification 8>
In the first embodiment, the light guide unit 532 is rotatably held, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is sufficient if the design that can be visually recognized from the central opening 85 can be changed by moving the light guide portion, and for example, the light guide portion may be held so as to be slidable.

<Modification 9>
In the first embodiment described above, the light guide portion 532 is formed in a cylindrical shape, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the light guide portion 532 may be formed in a disk shape and arranged so that the plate surface thereof faces the front of the gaming machine. In this case, the direction of the rotation center axis of the rotating body may be changed in the front-rear direction.

<Modification 10>
In the first embodiment described above, the backlight 582 is turned on when the display shifts to the reach display, but at least the backlight 582 is turned on when a special change (special variation display) is executed. If it is, it is sufficient, and it is optional whether or not to turn on the backlight 582 during other periods.

<Modification 11>
In the first embodiment, when the special change (special variation) is executed, the operation of the rotating body 525 is stopped, then the side light 528 is turned off, and the re-operation of the rotating body 525 is completed. Later, the side light 528 was turned on, but the specific configuration for operating the rotating body 525 by utilizing the turn-off period of the side light 528 is not limited to this. For example, instead of or in addition to the above configuration, it is also possible to turn off the side light 528 during the operation of the rotating body 525 and then turn on the side light 528 after the operation of the rotating body 525 is completed. be.

Further, when the symbol is inserted or displayed by a special change, a fluctuation display mode in which the rotation speed of the rotating body 525M of the middle drum is relatively slow (for example, normal reach) and a fluctuation display mode in which the rotation speed is relatively fast (for example, super reach) are displayed. ) And is set, it is also possible to change the timing of light supply / stop according to the rotation speed. For example, when a symbol is paused on the reach line, lengthening the pause period increases the margin for checking the symbol. However, if the suspension period is simply lengthened, the restriction on the number of re-variations at the time of special change may become stronger. Therefore, if the light supply is restarted immediately before the suspension, the margin for checking the design can be increased. However, in such a configuration, the margin margin substantially changes depending on the rotation speed of the rotating body. Therefore, when the rotation speed is relatively high, the light supply start timing is set earlier than when the rotation speed is relatively slow, or the light supply range is set for a part of the upstream side of the reach line. It is good to do it.

<Modification 12>
In the first embodiment, the side light 528 as the "light emitting unit" is fixed and the light guide unit 532 as the "light guide" is movable, but this relationship can be reversed. Is. That is, it is also possible to display the symbol in a variable manner by moving the light emitting unit with respect to the fixed light guide unit. Even in this case, it is preferable that the arrangement direction of the light emitting portion formed in the light guide portion and the moving direction of the light emitting portion are aligned.

<Modification 13>
In the first embodiment, the light guide portion 532 is formed in a substantially annular shape, but it is sufficient if the design displayed in the variable display area can be changed by the operation in one direction, and the light guide is sufficient. The portion 532 is not limited to an annular shape (for example, it does not deny that a dent or the like is formed in a part thereof).

<Modification 14>
In a conventional gaming machine, for example, it is possible to make the symbol virtually indistinguishable by displaying the symbol in a variable manner at high speed. However, such movement hinders the improvement of the durability of the symbol display means. In particular, as shown in the present embodiment, in the configuration in which the rotating body is provided with the light guide portion, the weight is heavier than in the case where the rotating body is provided with, for example, paper, and there is a concern that such inconvenience will become remarkable. To.

Therefore, by stopping the supply of light from the side light 528 while the rotating body 525 is rotating, the design displayed on the light guide unit 532 can be suddenly erased. With the configuration in which the appearance is greatly changed (the distinctiveness is changed) by controlling the light emission of the side light 528 in this way, it is possible to suitably suppress the deterioration of durability caused by the diversification of the display mode.

For example, a display mode that clearly shows the process of changing the symbol and a display mode that hides the process of changing the symbol may be used in combination. With such a configuration, the mode of variable motion display of the symbol can be suitably diversified.

<Modification 15>
In order to make the movement of the light guide unit 532 difficult to understand when the design is specially changed, the operation of the light guide unit 532 may be started at the same time as the side light 528 is turned off, or the light guide unit 532 may be started after the side light 528 is turned off. The operation may be started. Further, the side light 528 may be turned on after the operation of the light guide unit 532 is completed, or the side light 528 may be turned on at the same time as the operation of the light guide unit 532 is completed.

<Modification 16>
The stop display period (pause period) of the medium symbol when making a special change may or may not match the fixed display period (final stop period). For example, the suspension period may be changed depending on the number of times the pattern is replaced in the special change. Specifically, it is possible to make a difference so that each suspension period becomes longer in the order of when the replacement occurs three times <when it occurs twice <when it occurs once. In this case, when the pause period is short, it is preferable to secure a period in which the pattern can be visually recognized by accelerating the timing of starting the supply of the spectrum. Specifically, the suspension period when the pattern is replaced once coincides with the final suspension period, and the suspension period when the pattern is replaced twice is 0.2 sec shorter than the final suspension period, and the pattern replacement is performed. When the pause period in the case of three times is 0.4 sec shorter than the final stop period, the light supply restart is preceded by the shortened amount (the supply is restarted during the operation of the light guide unit 532). Configuration).

<Modification 17>
A configuration in which light is supplied to the light emitting unit 553 only during the period when the light emitting unit 553 is located on the effective line, and when the light emitting unit 553 deviates from the effective line, the light supply is stopped to display the pattern frame by frame. It may be a second special change). In this case, when comparing the normal reach corresponding to the low-speed fluctuation display and the super reach corresponding to the high-speed fluctuation display, the visibility of the pattern may be lower in the latter than in the former, so in the latter case, from the effective line. It is preferable to ensure visibility by supplying light even if it is slightly off. For example, the timing for stopping the light supply may be delayed from the former, or the timing for restarting the light supply may be earlier than the former.

<Modification 18>
In the first embodiment described above, when a special change is made, the light guide unit 532 is not stopped (the operation is continued) in the process, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to suspend the light guide unit 532 in the process of special change.

<Modification 19>
In order to prevent the player from specifying the symbol to be replaced at the time of special change in advance, the former occupies a large proportion of the operation period of the light guide unit 532 and the waiting period from the operation stop to the light supply restart. , It is preferable to reduce the proportion of the latter.

<Modification 20>
In the first embodiment described above, the frame 531 is made of synthetic resin, but the frame 531 is not limited to this. It is also possible that the frame 531 is made of metal.

<Modification 21>
It is also possible to integrally mold the frame 531 and the light guide panels 555 to 557 shown in the first embodiment. With such a configuration, a fixing means for fixing the frame and the light guide panel and a configuration associated with the fixing means (for example, a portion corresponding to the rim 536) are not required. This is preferable in improving the appearance of the variable display unit.

The frame 531 is divided into three parts in the rotation direction corresponding to each light guide panel 555 to 557, and each frame portion is integrally molded with the corresponding light guide panels 555 to 557, and these three pieces are fixed by means of fixing means or the like. It is also possible to construct a rotating body by using and fixing them to each other. With such a divided structure, it is possible to prevent the molding from becoming difficult.

<Second embodiment>
The variable display unit 500X shown in the present embodiment is the same as the variable display unit 500 shown in the first embodiment in the main configuration for variablely displaying the symbol, but is displayed by the background display device 529X. The configuration is different from the variable display unit 500 in that the background can be switched according to the game situation. Hereinafter, the variable display unit 500X according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 43. FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the variable display unit 500X. In addition, in the same configuration as in the first embodiment, "X" is added to the end of the code while diverting the code, but basically the first is the one in which the differences and the like are not explained. It is the same as the various configurations shown in the embodiment of.

As shown in FIG. 43, the background display device 529X shown in the present embodiment has a basic configuration of the drum unit 523, specifically the base body 524, which is shown in the first embodiment, although there are differences in size and the like. It is the same as the body 525, the motor 526, the position detection sensor 527, and the side light 528. Specifically, the background display device 529X includes a plate-shaped base body 724X constituting a mounting portion to the housing 521, and a rotating body 725X held by the base body 724X.

The rotating body 725X is mounted on the base body 724X via the motor 726X. Specifically, the motor 726X is fixed to the base body 724X, and the rotating body 725X is fixed to the output shaft of the motor 726X. The output shaft of the motor 726X extends in the parallel direction (left-right direction) of the drum unit 723X, and the rotating body 725X rotates around the axis of the output shaft. The rotation center axis of the rotating body 725X shown in the present embodiment coincides with (coaxially) the rotation center axis CL of the rotating body 525X. By aligning the rotation center axes in this way, the operating gaps of the rotating bodies 525X and 725X are reduced. In the following description, the rotation center axis of the rotating body 725X is also referred to as "rotation center axis CL".

The motor 526 is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the drive control is performed by the notification / effect control device 140. The motor 726X is a stepping motor, and the rotation position of the rotating body 725X can be adjusted by the number of pulses of the output drive signal.

The base body 724X is equipped with a position detection sensor that detects the rotation position of the rotating body 725X. The position detection sensor is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the notification / effect control device 140 grasps the rotation position of the rotating body 725X based on the detection information (detection signal) from the position detection sensor. When the rotation position of the rotating body 725X is displaced due to the influence of an external force or the occurrence of a malfunction, the rotation position of the rotating body 725X is corrected (corrected) based on the grasped position information.

The rotating body 725X includes a circular frame 731X that constructs the skeleton of the rotating body 725X, a substantially cylindrical light guide portion 732X (light guide panel 755X to 757X) that covers the outer peripheral portion of the frame 731X, and a light guide portion 732X. It is composed of decorative sheets 781X to 783X attached to the outer surface. The frame 731X includes a hub 735X as a central portion to which the output shaft of the motor 726X is fixed, an annular rim 736X as the outer peripheral portion to which the light guide portion 732X is fixed, and spokes 737X connecting the hub 735X and the rim 736X. It is composed of.

Specifically, the rim 736X has a pair of left and right annular portions centered on the rotation center axis CL, and a long connecting portion connecting the annular portions. The light guide portion 732X is fixed to the connecting portion by using a fixing means (adhesive) in a state of being overlapped with the connecting portion from the outside of the frame 731X.

The rim 736X of the frame 731X is formed with a contact portion 743X that abuts on the light guide portion 532 from the side opposite to the base body 524 side. The left and right positions of the light guide portion 732X are defined by the contact portion 743X. The end portion of the light guide portion 732X on the side opposite to the contact portion 743X (base body 724X side) extends laterally from the rim 736X. The base body 724X is formed with an insertion portion 761X into which the extending portion (end portion) is inserted.

The insertion portion 761X has a groove shape that is open to the light guide portion 732X side, and the end portion of the light guide portion 732X is inserted into the insertion portion 761X through this open portion. A light emitting board 771X on which a plurality of light emitting bodies 772X (specifically, LEDs) are mounted is arranged on the side opposite to the light guide portion 732X with the bottom portion 762X of the insertion portion 761X interposed therebetween. The light emitting board 771X is connected to the notification / effect control device 140, and the light emission control of the light emitting board 771X is performed by the notification / effect control device 140.

A plurality of through holes are formed in the bottom of the insertion portion 761X according to each light emitting body 772X, and the light emitting body 772X mounted on the light emitting substrate 771X faces the end face 754X of the light guide portion 732X through the through holes. There is. The optical axis of each light emitting body 772X faces the same direction as the rotation center axis CL of the rotating body 725X, and the light from the light emitting bodies 772X irradiates the end face 754X of the light guide unit 732X. The base body 724X (including the insertion portion 761X) is made of a colored opaque synthetic resin material and is provided with a function of absorbing light. As a result, light leakage from the insertion portion 761X is suppressed.

The light from the light emitting body 772X repeatedly reflects off the outer surface portion and the inner surface portion of the light guide unit 732X, and heads toward the opposite end surface of the light guide unit 732X. Here, a light emitting portion made of fine irregularities is formed in almost the entire outer surface portion of the light guide portion 732X. In the light guide unit 532X for displaying a pattern, the formation range of the light emitting portion is limited to a part, whereas the formation range of the light emitting portion in the light guide unit 732X is not such a limitation. .. That is, the light guide unit 732X in the present embodiment has a function as the lighting means (backlight 582) shown in the first embodiment.

The light supplied to the light guide unit 732X reaches the light emission unit of the light guide unit 732X and is emitted to the front of the gaming machine, and the light passes through any of the decorative sheets 781X to 783X. The decorative sheets 781X to 783X emit bright light.

In the present embodiment, the rotating body 525X constituting the drum and the rotating body 725X constituting the background display device 529 face each other, and the rotating body 725X is included in the rotating body 525X which is one size larger than the rotating body 725X. Most are housed. Since both the rotating body 525X and the rotating body 725X are movable objects, a corresponding operating gap is required between them. However, if such an operation gap becomes too large, there is a concern that the background display will not be performed properly. One of the features of this embodiment is that the operation gap is reduced in consideration of such circumstances.

As shown in FIG. 43, the base body 524X is formed with an engaging recess 591X that engages with the hub 535X of the frame 531X, and the hub 535X engages with the engaging recess 591X to rotate the base body 524X. It is assembled to the frame 531X in a movable state. The motor 526X is arranged on the side opposite to the frame 531X (outside the drum unit) with the base body 524X interposed therebetween, and is fixed to the frame 531X. With such a configuration, the weight load applied to the output shaft of the motor 526X is reduced, and the runout when rotating the rotating body 525X is suppressed.

On the other hand, the base body 724X is formed with an engaging recess 791X that engages with the hub 735X of the frame 731X, and the hub 735X engages with the engaging recess 791X so that the base body 724X can rotate. It is attached to the frame 731X. The motor 726X is arranged on the side opposite to the frame 731X (outside the drum unit) with the base body 724X interposed therebetween, and is fixed to the frame 731X. With such a configuration, the weight load applied to the output shaft of the motor 726X is reduced, and the runout when rotating the rotating body 725X is suppressed.

With such a configuration, if the runout of the rotating bodies 525X and 725X is suppressed, the operating gap between the rotating bodies 525X and 725X can be reduced when the rotating bodies 525X and 725X are arranged twice inside and outside. ..

As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 44 (a), the rotating body 725X shown in the present embodiment is also combined with a plurality of light guide panels 755X to 757X provided separately in the rotating direction in the same manner as the rotating body 525X. As a result, the light guide unit 732X having a substantially cylindrical shape as a whole is constructed. The light guide panels 755X to 757X are made of transparent synthetic resin, and all have a plate shape having a constant thickness and a constant curvature. Further, the length dimension of the rotating body 725X in the rotation direction and the width dimension in the rotation center axis CL direction are also the same, and the appearance is formed to be the same. The light guide panels 755X to 757X are fixed to the rim 736X (specifically, the connecting portion) of the frame 731X by using a transparent adhesive which is a fixing means, but the light guide panels 755X to 757X are not fixed to each other. It has become.

As described above, in the configuration in which one end of the light guide portion 732X is inserted into the insertion portion 761X, the inner surface of the insertion portion 761X and the light guide portion 732X are combined as much as possible in order to improve the light supply efficiency. It is preferable to bring them close to each other. However, in order to make such a structure, it is necessary to add a certain margin to the gap between the two in consideration of the fact that the light guide panels 755X to 757X are distorted due to manufacturing errors and changes over time. Here, in the present embodiment, by making the light guide panels 755X to 757X non-fixed to each other, it is possible to avoid the distortion that may occur when the light guide panels 755X to 757X are fixed. This makes it possible to reduce the margin as much as possible.

When the rotating body 725X is constructed by using the light guide unit 732X, the expressive power of the variable display unit can be improved, but the weight of the rotating body 725X tends to increase. There is concern that this will be a factor that reduces the responsiveness when rotating / stopping the rotating body 725X. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the light guide panels 755X to 757X avoid overlapping in the thickness direction. As a result, the weight increase of the light guide unit 732X is suppressed, and the decrease in responsiveness is suppressed.

In the boundary portion BP2 between the light guide panels 755X and 757X, the adjacent light guide panels 755X to 757X face each other with a gap between them. This is a device for avoiding strong interference between the light guide panels 755X to 757X at the boundary portion BP2 when the size of the light guide panels 755X to 757X varies due to a manufacturing error or the like. By avoiding the strong interference of the light guide panels 755X to 757X, it is possible to suppress the deformation such as the distortion of the light guide panels 755X to 757X.

The insertion portion 761X shown in the present embodiment also extends from the opening 522 (see FIG. 13) of the housing 521 in the light guide portion 732X along a portion protruding in front of the gaming machine. The open portions on both the upper and lower sides of the insertion portion 761X are expanded so as to gradually increase in width toward the end portions. As a result, the catching when the boundary portion BP2 passes through the open portion is suppressed. Incidentally, when the open portion is expanded, light leakage from the side light 728X is likely to occur. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, both of the open portions are formed to face backward, and more specifically, to face diagonally backward. This is a device that makes it difficult for the player to see the light when the light leaks from the open portion.

Decorative sheets 781X to 783X are attached to the light guide panels 755X to 757X, respectively. The decorative sheets 781X to 783X have the same size as the outer surface portion of the light guide panels 755X to 757X and are common in that they have light transmission, but the drawn patterns are different. Specifically, the decorative sheet 781X mounted on the light guide panel 755X is given a pattern imitating a sandy beach in the daytime, and the decorative sheet 782X mounted on the light guide panel 756X imitates a sandy beach in the evening. A picture is given, and the decorative sheet 783X attached to the light guide panel 757X is given a picture imitating a sandy beach at night.

By rotating the rotating body 725X, the background that can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine is switched. Here, with reference to FIG. 44 (b), the relationship between the gaming state and the background will be supplementarily described. In the first normal gaming state where the support mode is the low frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the low probability mode, the daytime sandy beach is displayed as the background. In the second normal game state where the support mode is the high frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the low probability mode, and in the third normal game state where the support mode is the high frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the high probability mode, the above background is the evening. The sandy beach is displayed. In the special game state (open / close execution mode) that shifts when a big hit result is obtained, the sandy beach at night is displayed as the above background. In this way, by switching the display of the background according to the gaming state, the gaming state is suggested to the player.

In the present embodiment, the background and the design are displayed by using the double rotating body inside and outside. In such a configuration, it becomes difficult to incorporate the lighting means in the inner rotating body in order to secure the power supply path to the lighting means. In this respect, the above problem is suitably solved by constructing the rotating body 725X by using the light guide unit 732X that functions as the lighting means.

<Modification 1>
In the second embodiment, the motor 526X for the rotating body 525X and the motor 726X for the rotating body 725X are configured to protrude to the outside of the drum unit. With such a configuration, the gap between the left and right side-by-side drum units becomes large, and the distance between the symbol rows becomes large. Hereinafter, a modified example in consideration of such circumstances will be described.

As shown in the schematic view of FIG. 45, the hubs 535Y and 735Y of the frames 531Y and 731Y are formed so as to be convex inward of the drum unit, and the base body 524Y is formed from the rotation center axis CL side with respect to the hubs 535Y and 735Y. , 724Y engagement convex portions 591Y, 791Y are configured to engage. By making the engaging protrusions 591Y and 791Y hollow and arranging (accommodating) the motors 526Y and 726Y in the hollow portion, the overhang of the motors 526Y and 726Y can be reduced. As a result, the gap can be reduced and the separation of the symbol rows can be suppressed.

<Modification 2>
In the second embodiment, the light guide unit 732X is used as the lighting means for the decorative sheets 781X to 783X, but the present invention is not limited to this. The light guide unit 732X may also be configured to display a predetermined pattern in the same manner as the light guide unit 532X. For example, the light emitting portion of the light guide portion 732X may be formed so that a pattern similar to the pattern described on the decorative sheets 781X to 783X can be displayed. With such a configuration, it is not preferable that the back side can be visually recognized through the light guide unit 732X. Therefore, it is advisable to provide a plain sheet material or the like on the inner surface side of the light guide portion 732X so that the inner surface side cannot be visually recognized.

<Modification 3>
In the second embodiment described above, the decorative sheets 781X to 783X are individually mounted for each of the light guide panels 755X to 757X, but the decorative sheet 1 is straddled over the three light guide panels 755X to 757X. It is also possible to install it. With such a configuration, it is possible to make the boundary portion BP2 inconspicuous by covering the boundary portion BP2 between the light guide panels 755X and 757X.

<Modification example 4>
In the second embodiment, the configuration suggests four gaming states by three backgrounds, but it is also possible to match the number of backgrounds with the number of gaming states.

<Modification 5>
It is also possible to apply the configuration shown in each modification of the first embodiment to the variable display unit shown in the present embodiment.

<Third embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the basic structure of the variable display unit is the same as that in the second embodiment, but the variable display unit is used to execute different display effects for each game state. The configuration is different from that of the second embodiment. Hereinafter, the variable display unit according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 46. FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the variable display unit.

Each drum unit 723Z constituting the variable display unit is composed of a first display unit including a base body 524Z, a rotating body 525Z, a motor 526Z, a side light 528Z, etc., and a base body 724Z, a rotating body 725Z, a motor 726Z, a side light 728Z, etc. It is roughly divided into the second display unit. The first display unit has a function of notifying the lottery result based on the ball entering the upper operating port 83a (see FIG. 6), and if the lottery results in a probable change jackpot result, the above-mentioned effective line The symbol combination corresponding to the probable change jackpot result is stopped and displayed in at least one of L1 to L5, and when the normal jackpot result is obtained in the lottery, the normal jackpot result corresponds to at least one of the effective lines L1 to L5. It is configured to stop and display the symbol combination. The base body 524Z, the rotating body 525Z, the motor 526Z, and the side light 528Z are detailed because they are the same as the base body 524Y, the rotating body 525Y, the motor 526Y, and the side light 528Y shown in the second embodiment. The explanation is omitted.

The rotating body 725Z has a light guide unit 732Z and a frame 731Z on which the light guide unit 732Z is mounted, and the light guide unit 732Z is a combination of a plurality of light guide panels 755Z to 758Z. The configuration is the same as that of the light guide unit 732Y shown in the second embodiment. However, in the light guide portion 732Y, the decorative sheets 781Y to 783Y are attached to the outer surface portion thereof, whereas in the light guide portion 732Z shown in the present embodiment, the sheet materials 781Z to 783Z are attached to the inner surface portion of the light guide portion 732Z. Is attached, which is different from the second embodiment.

Since the sheet materials 781Z to 783Z are not imparted with light transmission, the back side thereof cannot be visually recognized through the sheet materials 781Z to 783Z. All of the sheet materials 781Z to 783Z are plain and do not have a pattern such as a background, that is, information that serves as a foothold for specifying the rotation position of the rotating body 725Z. On the other hand, the light emitting unit 753Z (see FIG. 47) formed on the outer surface portion 751Z of the light guide unit 732Z is determined by emitting light from the light emitting unit 753Z in the same manner as the light guide unit 532Z. It is configured to display the design of. That is, the light guide unit 732Y shown in the second embodiment functions as a lighting means, whereas the light guide unit 732Z shown in the present embodiment functions as a pattern display means. In a situation where light is not emitted from the light emitting unit 753Z, the above-mentioned symbols and the like are hidden, and it is practically impossible or difficult to visually identify the light emitting unit 753Z.

Here, with reference to FIG. 47, the light emitting unit 753Z formed in the light guide unit 732Z, that is, the design displayed by the light emitting unit 753Z and the like will be described. FIG. 47 shows a state in which each light emitting unit 753Z emits light and a symbol or the like is displayed for convenience of explanation.

On the light guide panel 755Z constituting the light guide unit 732Z, one pattern is described so as to straddle the three light guide panels 755Z on the left and right. Specifically, a pattern showing a sandy beach is described. Light is supplied from the side light 728Z while the light guide panel 755Z faces the front of the gaming machine, so that the background of the sandy beach is displayed.

On the light guide panels 756Z to 757Z, a "boy" symbol, a "bell" symbol, a "replay" symbol, a "7" symbol, and a "BAR" symbol are arranged in a predetermined order. Although not shown, a plurality of effective lines are set for the second display unit as well as the first display unit, and when a probability variation jackpot result corresponding to 16R is obtained, at least one of the effective lines is set. The symbol combination of "7", "7", and "7" is stopped and displayed, and when the normal jackpot result corresponding to 4R is obtained, the symbol combination of "7", "7", and "BAR" is stopped and displayed, and the result is off. In this case, the symbol combinations other than these symbol combinations are stopped and displayed (see FIG. 48).

In the present embodiment, it is possible to switch between the case where the background of the sandy beach is displayed by the light guide panel 755Z and the case where the design is displayed by the light guide panels 756Z to 757Z according to the game situation. The background and the design are not stopped and displayed in the variable display area at the same time.

The effective lines in the second display unit are configured to match the effective lines L1 to L5 (effective lines of the first display unit) shown in FIG. 20 when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, and are effective lines. By overlapping before and after, the player's understanding is facilitated. Hereinafter, the effective line of the second display unit is also described as an effective line L1 to L5.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the game times related to the upper operating port 83a and the game times related to the lower operating port 83b are executed in a predetermined order, and the game times are not overlapped. However, the present embodiment is different in that the game times related to the upper operating port 83a and the game times related to the lower operating port 83b are performed in parallel. Hereinafter, various processes executed by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 and the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140 in order to realize such a flow of the game will be described focusing on the differences from the second embodiment. do. First, with reference to FIGS. 49 to 53, the game times control process executed by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162 in the present embodiment will be described.

(Game times control process)
In the game times control process in the present embodiment, first, in step S1301, it is determined whether or not the game is in the special game state (open / close execution mode). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the open / close execution mode flag (open / close execution state information) is stored (stored) in the open / close execution mode flag storage area (open / close execution state information storage means) in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. do. The open / close execution mode flag is stored when the game state is shifted to the open / close execution mode in the game state transition process described later, and is deleted when the open / close execution mode is terminated in the game state transition process.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1301, the game round control process is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S1301, the game times control process for the game times related to the winning of the upper operating port 83a in step S1302 (game times control process corresponding to the upper operating port, control process for the upper operating port). And, in step S1303, after executing the game times control process (game times control process corresponding to the lower operation port, control process for the lower operation port) related to the winning of the lower operation port 83b, the main game turn. End the control process. The basic flow of these two control processes is the same. Hereinafter, the control process for the upper operating port will be described with reference to FIGS. 50 and 51, and then the control process for the lower operating port will be mainly referred to with reference to FIGS. 52 and 53. The control process will be described.

(Control processing for upper working port)
As shown in FIG. 50, in the control process for the upper operating port, first, in step S1401, it is determined whether or not the game rotation related to the upper operating port 83a is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the display unit for the upper operating port of the main display unit 87 is in the variable display to the definite display, that is, whether or not the game for one game is being executed. In this determination, the game rotation flag (game rotation information) for the upper operating port is stored (stored) in the game rotation flag storage area (variation display information storage means) in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. It is performed by determining whether or not it is. The game rotation flag for the upper operating port is stored when the variable display is started on the display unit for the upper operating port, and is erased when the pattern is stopped and displayed and the confirmed display ends.

If the game is not in progress, a negative determination is made in step S1401 and the process proceeds to step S1402. In step S1402, it is determined whether or not the game is being rotated according to the lower operating port 83b. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the display unit for the lower operating port of the main display unit 87 is in the variable display to the definite display, that is, whether or not the game for one game is being executed. In this determination, the game rotation flag (variation display information) for the lower operating port is stored (stored) in the game rotation flag storage area (variation display information storage means) in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. It is performed by determining whether or not it is. The game rotation flag for the lower operating port is stored when the variable display is started on the lower operating port display unit, and the pattern or the like corresponding to the lottery result (game result) is stopped and displayed, and the confirmation display ends. If it is erased.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1402, the process proceeds to step S1403. In step S1403, it is determined whether or not the game times related to the lower operating port 83b correspond to the jackpot result. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1403, the control process for the main actuating port is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S1403 or step S1402, the process proceeds to step S1404.

In step S1404, the total number of hold storage areas of the hold ball storage area 632 is referred to, and the number of hold information for the upper operating port, which is the number of hold information stored on hold, is CRN (specifically, the hold information related to the upper operation port 83a). It is determined whether or not the number) is "0". When the reserved storage number CRN for the upper operating port is "0", the game times control process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the reserved storage number CRN for the upper working port is not "0", the process proceeds to step S1405. In step S1405, data setting processing is performed.

In the data setting process of the upper operating port 83a, first, the reserved storage number CRN for the upper operating port is decremented by 1. After that, the data stored in the first area of the upper working port holding area Ra is moved to the first execution area AE1, and the process of shifting the data stored in the storage area of the upper working opening holding area Ra is executed. ..

This data shift process is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the first to fourth areas to the lower area side, and the data in the first area is cleared and the second area → the first area, The data in each area is shifted such as from the third area to the second area and from the fourth area to the third area. Then, one LED that is lit is turned off at the hold number display unit for the upper working port. In this extinguishing process, contrary to the lighting process executed when the hold information is added, the LEDs of the hold number display unit for the upper working port are turned off in order from the right side.

After performing the data setting processing described in detail above, in step S1406, the fluctuation start processing for the upper operating port for starting the variable display of the pattern on the display unit for the upper operating port and the variable display of the symbol on the variable display unit. After executing (variation start processing for the upper operating port), the game round control processing is terminated. Here, with reference to FIG. 51, the fluctuation start processing for the upper working port of step S1406 will be described.

(Variation start processing for upper working port)
In the fluctuation start processing for the upper working port, first, the hit / fail determination processing is executed in step S1501. In the hit / fail determination process, the hit / fail determination information among the information stored in the first execution area, that is, the numerical information acquired from the jackpot random number counter C1 is the above-mentioned jackpot numerical information with reference to the hit / miss table for the upper operating port. It is determined whether or not it matches with. If the determination result in step S1501 is a jackpot result, an affirmative determination is made in step S1502 and the process proceeds to step S1503.

In step S1503, the type determination process is executed. In the type determination process, among the information stored in the first execution area, the information for type determination, that is, the numerical information acquired from the jackpot type counter C2 is grasped. Further, with reference to the distribution table stored in the distribution table storage area 622 of the ROM 603, the information for type determination grasped above is the information group corresponding to the normal jackpot result and the information group corresponding to the probability variation jackpot result. Identify if it is included in any of them.

In step S1504, the stop result setting process for the jackpot result is executed. Specifically, from the stop result table for the jackpot result stored in advance in the ROM 603, the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit D (display unit for the upper operating port) of the main display unit 87 in the game round. It is specified, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604. A plurality of patterns to be stopped and displayed on the main display unit D are set in the stop result table for the jackpot result, and in step S1504, information indicating the symbols corresponding to the jackpot result is stored in the RAM 604. Further, in step S1504, information for specifying in the MPU 602 whether the game result this time is a normal jackpot result or a probability variation jackpot result is stored in various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. Specifically, if it is a normal jackpot result, the normal jackpot flag is stored, and if it is a probability variation jackpot result, the probability variation jackpot flag is stored.

After executing the setting process of step S1504, the process proceeds to step S1505. In step S1505, it is determined whether or not the game round related to the lower operating port 83b is being executed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1505, the process proceeds to step S1506. In step S1506, the forced termination flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. When the game times (pattern variation display) related to the lower operating port 83b are executed, the game times (picture variation display) related to the lower operating port 83b are forcibly performed on the way based on this forced end flag. It will be terminated. More specifically, when the game times related to the upper operating port 83a correspond to the jackpot result, and the game times related to the lower operating port 83b can be executed beyond the timing when the confirmation display is performed in the game times. In this case, the game times related to the lower operating port 83b are shortened, and the game times related to the lower operating port 83b are terminated at the same time as the game times related to the upper operating port 83a are completed. In such a case, the pattern stopped and displayed in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b corresponds to the disengagement result.

Returning to the description of step S1502, if the determination result in step S1501 is an incorrect result, a negative determination is made in the step S1502, and the process proceeds to step S1507. In step S1507, the stop result setting process for the off result is executed.

Specifically, in the game round related to the start of the fluctuation this time, the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit D (display unit for the upper operating port) of the main display unit 87 is stored in the ROM 603 in advance. It is specified from the stop result table for use, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604.

After executing the processes of steps S1506 and S1507, or when a negative determination is made in step S1505, the process proceeds to step S1508. In step S1508, the variable display time (display duration) setting process is executed.

After executing the variation display time setting process in step S1508, the variation start command and the type command are set in step S1509. The fluctuation start command includes information on the fluctuation display time. Here, as described above, the variation display time acquired by referring to the variation display time table for non-reach generation is different from the variation display time acquired by referring to the variation display time table for reach generation, and therefore varies. Even if the start command does not include information on whether or not reach has occurred, the notification / effect control device 140, which is a control device on the sub side, can specify whether or not reach has occurred from the information on the variable display time. .. In this respect, it can be said that the fluctuation start command contains information indicating whether or not reach has occurred. The fluctuation start command may include information that directly indicates whether or not reach has occurred.

After executing the setting process of step S1509, the process proceeds to step S1510 to start the variation display of the upper actuating port display unit in the main display unit 87, and then end the variable start process for the main actuating port. In the process of step S1510, the game rotation flag for the upper operating port is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it becomes possible to specify that the game times (for example, variable display) related to the upper operating port 83a are being executed.

Returning to the description of FIG. 50 again, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1401, that is, if it is determined that the game is being rotated related to the upper operating port 83a, the process proceeds to step S1407. In step S1407, it is determined whether or not the game round is related to the lower operating port 83b and is the start timing of the game round corresponding to the jackpot result. If a negative determination is made in step S1407, the process proceeds to step S1408.

In step S1408, it is determined whether or not the timing has elapsed the fluctuation display time set in step S1508. If a negative determination is made in step S1408, the variation display process is executed in step S1409, and then the control process for the main actuation port is terminated. In the variable display process of step S1409, the pattern is variablely displayed by performing a process of turning on / off various LEDs constituting the display unit for the upper working port.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1408, the process proceeds to step S1411. In step S1411, the variable end process is executed. In the variable end processing, the display control of the main display unit 87 is performed so that the pattern is stopped and displayed on the display unit for the upper working port so as to have a predetermined mode. That is, for example, a definite display of a pattern corresponding to a lottery result (game result) is executed. It should be noted that the game-turning flag for the upper operating port stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604 is erased when the confirmation display is completed.

After setting the variable end command in the following step S1412, the game round control process is terminated. The fluctuation end command set in step S1412 is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). The notification / effect control device 140 executes a process for terminating the effect in the game round based on the reception of the variable end command. Specifically, by receiving the variable end command, the combination of symbols corresponding to the game result of the game round is confirmed and displayed (final stop display) on the first display unit of the variable display unit. It should be noted that the notification / effect control device 140 may independently end the effect for the game round without transmitting the variable end command.

After executing the process of step S1412, the process proceeds to step S1413, and the game count counter update process is executed. The game count counter is a counter for specifying the number of games for which the high frequency support mode is continued in the second normal game state, and is subtracted by "1" each time the game times are executed. When the game count counter becomes "0", the affirmative determination is made in step S1414 and the process proceeds to step S1415. In step S1415, the high frequency support mode flag stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 604 is cleared. After setting the high-frequency support mode end command in the following step S1416, the control process for the main actuation port is terminated. The high-frequency support mode end command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 of the normal process (FIG. 28). The notification / effect control device 140 switches the display effect mode based on the reception of this command.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1407, the stop pattern rewriting process is executed in step S1410, each process of steps S1411 to S1416 is executed, and then the control process for the main actuation port is terminated. In the stop result rewriting process, the stop result is rewritten so that the pattern corresponding to the off result is stopped and displayed.

Next, the control process for the lower working port will be described with reference to FIGS. 52 and 53.

(Control processing for lower operating port)
As shown in FIG. 19, in the lower operating port control process, first, in step S1601, it is determined whether or not the game is being rotated according to the lower operating port 83b. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the display unit for the lower operating port of the main display unit 87 is in the variable display to the definite display, that is, whether or not the game for one game is being executed. In this determination, the game rotation flag (variation display information) for the lower operating port is stored (stored) in the game rotation flag storage area (variation display information storage means) in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. It is performed by determining whether or not it is. The game rotation flag for the lower operating port is stored when the variable display is started on the display unit for the lower operating port, and is erased when the pattern is stopped and displayed and the confirmation display ends.

If the game is not in progress, a negative determination is made in step S1601 and the process proceeds to step S1602. In step S1602, it is determined whether or not the game rotation related to the upper operating port 83a is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the display unit for the upper operating port of the main display unit 87 is in the variable display to the definite display, that is, whether or not the game for one game is being executed.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1602, the process proceeds to step S1603. In step S1603, it is determined whether or not the game times related to the upper operating port 83a correspond to the jackpot result. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1603, the control process for the lower working port is terminated as it is. If a negative determination is made in step S1603, or if a negative determination is made in step S1602, the process proceeds to step S1604. In step S1604, the reserved ball storage area 632 is referred to the total reserved number storage area, and the reserved stored number CRN for the lower operating port, which is the number of reserved information stored on hold (specifically, the reserved information related to the lower operating port 83b). It is determined whether or not the number) is "0". When the reserved storage number CRN for the lower operating port is "0", the game times control process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the reserved storage number CRN for the lower working port is not "0", the process proceeds to step S1605. In step S1605, data setting processing is performed.

In the data setting process of the lower operating port 83b, first, the reserved storage number CRN for the lower operating port is decremented by 1. After that, the data stored in the first area of the lower working port holding area Rb is moved to the second execution area, and the process of shifting the data stored in the storage area of the lower working opening holding area Rb is executed.

This data shift process is a process of sequentially shifting the data stored in the first to fourth areas to the lower area side, and the data in the first area is cleared and the second area → the first area, The data in each area is shifted such as from the third area to the second area and from the fourth area to the third area. Then, one LED that is lit is turned off at the hold number display unit for the lower working port. In this turn-off process, the LEDs of the hold lamp section for the lower working port are turned off in order from the right side, contrary to the lighting process executed when the hold information is added.

After performing the data setting process described in detail above, in step S1606, the variable display of the pattern on the main display unit 87 (main display unit D) and the variable display of the pattern on the variable display unit (specifically, the second display unit) are displayed. After executing the fluctuation start processing for the lower operating port (variation start processing for the lower operating port) for starting, the game round control process is terminated.

Here, with reference to FIG. 53, the fluctuation start processing for the lower working port of step S1606 will be described.

(Variation start processing for lower operating port)
In the change start process for the lower working port, first, the pass / fail determination process is executed in step S1701. In the hit / fail determination process, the hit / fail determination information among the various information stored in the second execution area, that is, the numerical information related to the jackpot random number counter C1, is the above-mentioned jackpot numerical information with reference to the hit / miss table for the lower operating port. It is determined whether or not it matches with. If the determination result in step S1701 is a jackpot result, an affirmative determination is made in step S1702 and the process proceeds to step S1703.

In step S1703, the type determination process is executed. In the type determination process, among the various information stored in the second execution area, the information for type determination, that is, the numerical information acquired from the jackpot type counter C2 and the distribution table stored in the distribution table storage area 622 of the ROM 603. With reference to, it is specified whether the information for type determination grasped above is included in the information group corresponding to the normal jackpot result or the information group corresponding to the probabilistic jackpot result.

In step S1704, the stop result setting process for the jackpot result is executed. Specifically, from the stop result table for the jackpot result stored in advance in the ROM 603, the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit D (display unit for the lower operating port) of the main display unit 87 in the game round. It is specified, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604. A plurality of patterns to be stopped and displayed on the main display unit D are set in the stop result table for the jackpot result, and in step S1704, information indicating the symbols corresponding to the jackpot result is stored in the RAM 604. Further, in step S1704, information for specifying in the MPU 602 whether the game result this time is a normal jackpot result or a probability variation jackpot result is stored in various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. Specifically, if it is a normal jackpot result, the normal jackpot flag is stored, and if it is a probability variation jackpot result, the probability variation jackpot flag is stored.

After executing the setting process of step S1704, the process proceeds to step S1705. In step S1705, it is determined whether or not the game round related to the upper operating port 83a is being executed. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1705, the process proceeds to step S1706. In step S1706, the forced termination flag is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. When the game times (pattern variation display) related to the upper operating port 83a are executed, the game times (picture variation display) related to the upper operating port 83a are forcibly performed on the way based on this forced end flag. It will be terminated. More specifically, when the game times related to the lower operating port 83b correspond to the jackpot result, and beyond the timing when the confirmation display is performed in the game times, the game times related to the upper operating port 83a (corresponding to the disengagement result). ) Can be executed, the game times related to the upper operating port 83a are shortened, and the game times related to the upper operating port 83a are terminated at the same time as the game times related to the lower operating port 83b are completed. In such a case, the pattern stopped and displayed in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a corresponds to the disengagement result.

Returning to the description of step S1702, if the determination result in step S1701 is an incorrect result, a negative determination is made in step S702 and the process proceeds to step S1707.

In step S1707, the stop result setting process for the off result is executed. Specifically, in the game round related to the start of this fluctuation, the pattern to be finally stopped and displayed on the main display unit D (display unit for the lower operating port) of the main display unit 87 is stored in the ROM 603 in advance. It is specified from the stop result table for use, and the specified information is stored in the RAM 604.

After executing the process of step S1706 or step S1707, or when a negative determination is made in step S1705, the process proceeds to step S1708. In step S1708, the variable display time (display duration) setting process is executed.

After executing the variation display time setting process in step S1708, the variation start command and the type command are set in step S1709. The fluctuation start command includes information on the fluctuation display time. Here, as described above, the variation display time acquired by referring to the variation display time table for non-reach generation is different from the variation display time acquired by referring to the variation display time table for reach generation, and therefore varies. Even if the start command does not include information on whether or not reach has occurred, the notification / effect control device 140, which is a control device on the sub side, can specify whether or not reach has occurred from the information on the variable display time. .. In this respect, it can be said that the fluctuation start command contains information indicating whether or not reach has occurred. The fluctuation start command may include information that directly indicates whether or not reach has occurred.

After executing the setting process of step S1709, the process proceeds to step S1710 to start the variable display of the lower operating port display unit in the main display unit 87, and then end the variable starting process for the lower operating port. In the process of step S1710, the game rotation flag for the lower operating port is stored in the various flag storage areas 635 of the RAM 604. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it becomes possible to specify that the game times (for example, variable display) related to the lower operating port 83b are being executed.

Returning to the description of FIG. 52 again, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1601, that is, if it is determined that the game is being rotated according to the lower operating port 83b, the process proceeds to step S1608. In step S1608, it is determined whether or not the game round is related to the upper operating port 83a and is the start timing of the game round corresponding to the jackpot result. If a negative determination is made in step S1608, the process proceeds to step S1609.

In step S1609, it is determined whether or not the timing has elapsed the variable display time. If a negative determination is made in step S1609, the variation display process is executed in step S1610, and then the lower operation port control process is terminated. In the variable display process of step S1610, the pattern is variablely displayed by performing a process of turning on / off various LEDs constituting the lower operating port display unit.

If positive stability is achieved in step S1609, the process proceeds to step S1612. In step S1612, the variable end process is executed. In the variable end processing, the display control of the main display unit 87 is performed so that the pattern is stopped and displayed on the display unit for the lower operating port so as to be in a predetermined mode.

In the following step S1613, the variable end command is set. The fluctuation end command set in step S1613 is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 in the normal process (FIG. 28). The notification / effect control device 140 executes a process for terminating the effect in the game round based on the reception of the variable end command. Further, by receiving the change end command, the notification / effect control device 140 confirms and displays the combination of symbols corresponding to the game result of the game time on the second display unit of the variable display unit 500Z (final stop display). Let me. It should be noted that the notification / effect control device 140 may independently end the effect for the game round without transmitting the variable end command.

After executing the process of step S1613, the process proceeds to step S1614, and the game count counter update process is executed. The game count counter is a counter for specifying the number of games for which the high frequency support mode is continued in the second normal game state, and is subtracted by "1" each time the game times are executed. When the game count counter becomes "0", an affirmative determination is made in step S1615, and the process proceeds to step S1616. In step S1616, the high frequency support mode flag stored in the various flag storage areas of the RAM 604 is cleared. After setting the high frequency support mode end command in the following step S1617, the control process for the lower working port is terminated. The high-frequency support mode end command is transmitted to the notification / effect control device 140 in step S401 of the normal process (FIG. 28). The notification / effect control device 140 switches the display effect mode based on the reception of this command.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S1608, the stop pattern rewriting process is executed in step S1611, each process of steps S1612 to S1617 is executed, and then the control process for the main actuation port is terminated. In the stop result rewriting process, the stop result is rewritten so that the pattern corresponding to the off result is stopped and displayed.

As described in detail above, in the present embodiment, the game times related to the upper operating port 83a and the game times related to the lower operating port 83b proceed simultaneously. However, there is a difference in the variable display time set in each game time depending on the game state, and the main target of the game progress is switched depending on the game state. Hereinafter, the relationship between the gaming state and the variable display time will be supplementarily described with reference to FIG. 54.

In the first normal game state in which the support mode is the low frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the low probability mode, the variable display time set for the game times executed based on the entry into the upper operating port 83a is 1 to 1. It will be 20 sec. Regarding the game times corresponding to the disengagement result, a difference is provided so that the variable display time becomes shorter as the number of holdings related to the upper operating port 83a increases, and the game progresses quickly to the upper operating port 83a. It is possible to reduce the chances that the hold information will not be acquired even though the ball has been entered. On the other hand, the variable display time set in the game times executed based on the entry of the ball into the lower operating port 83b is uniformly 600 sec. That is, the variable display time is 600 sec regardless of whether the lottery result is a big hit result or a missed result. As described above, in the first normal gaming state, the gaming times related to the upper operating port 83a are preferentially advanced.

On the other hand, in the second normal game state in which the support mode is the high frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the high probability mode, and in the third normal game state in which the support mode is the high frequency support mode and the lottery mode is the low probability mode. , The relationship of the set variable display time is opposite to that of the first normal gaming state. That is, the variable display time set for the game times executed based on the entry of the ball into the upper operating port 83a is uniformly 600 sec. That is, the variable display time is 600 sec regardless of whether the lottery result is a big hit result or a missed result. On the other hand, the variable display time set in the game times executed based on the entry of the ball into the lower operating port 83b is 1 to 10 sec. Regarding the game times corresponding to the disengagement result, a difference is provided so that the variable display time becomes shorter as the number of holdings related to the lower operating port 83b increases, and the game progresses quickly to the lower operating port 83b. It is possible to reduce the chances that the hold information will not be acquired even though the ball has been entered. As described above, in the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state, the gaming times related to the lower operating port 83b are preferentially advanced.

In the present embodiment, the lottery result is notified by the symbol displayed by the first display unit, and the lottery result is notified by the symbol displayed by the second display unit. It is configured to switch on / off the side light of each display unit according to the switching of the main target of the game progress. Hereinafter, the relationship between the gaming state and the light emitting mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 55 and 56.

In the first normal gaming state in which the game progresses mainly based on the entry of the ball into the upper operating port 83a, the side light 528Z of the first display unit and the side light 728Z of the second display unit are basically maintained in the lit state. (See FIG. 55). In the first normal gaming state, the rotating body 725Z of the second display unit is maintained in a state where the background of the sandy beach described above faces the front of the gaming machine, and a symbol corresponding to the upper operating port 83a is provided in front of the background of the sandy beach. Variable display. That is, as shown in FIG. 56A, the design of the first display unit and the background of the second display unit can be visually recognized.

On the other hand, in the second normal game state and the third normal game state in which the game progresses mainly based on the entry of the ball into the lower operating port 83b, the side light 528Z of the first display unit is basically turned off. The side light 728Z of the second display unit is maintained in a lit state (see FIG. 55). In these gaming states, with some exceptions, the symbols in the first display unit are hidden, and the configuration does not interfere with the visibility of the symbols displayed by the second display unit. That is, basically, as shown in FIG. 56 (b), only the symbol of the second display unit can be visually recognized.

In the special gaming state, the display of the symbol combination that triggered the transition to the special gaming state is continued. That is, when the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped and displayed in the first display unit, the background is hidden and the display of the symbol combination is continued, and the jackpot result corresponding to the second display unit is supported. If the symbol combination is stopped and displayed, the display of the symbol combination is continued.

Here, in the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140, the control process for the game round is executed as a part of the periodic process. The control process for the game round is the display process for the upper operating port corresponding to the game round based on the ball entering the upper operating port 83a, and the lower operating port corresponding to the game round based on the ball entering the lower operating port 83b. Including display processing. Hereinafter, the display process for the upper working port will be described with reference to FIGS. 57 to 59.

In the first normal game state, the side light 528Z for the first display unit is basically kept in the lit state and the side light 728Z for the second display unit is kept in the lit state, and the second normal game state and the third normal game state are basically maintained. In the gaming state, basically, the side light 528Z for the first display unit is kept off and the side light 728Z for the second display unit is kept on.

(Display processing for upper operating port)
As shown in FIG. 57, in the control process for the upper operating port, first, in step S1801, it is determined whether or not the player is in the first normal gaming state. If an affirmative judgment is made in step S1801, the main control process for the upper working port is executed in step S1802, and if a negative judgment is made in step S1801, a special control processing for the upper working port is executed in step S1803. do.

(Main control process for upper working port)
As shown in FIG. 58, in the main control process for the upper operating port, first, in step S1901, at the timing of confirming and displaying (final stop display) the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. Determine if it exists. If a negative determination is made in step S1901, the process proceeds to step S1902.

In step S1902, it is determined whether or not the game is being rotated according to the upper operating port 83a. If a negative determination is made in step S1902, the process proceeds to step S1903. In step S1903, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the game round related to the upper operating port 83a. If a negative determination is made in step S1903, the main processing for the main working port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1903, the process proceeds to step S1904.

In step S1904, the drive control start process of the first display unit is executed. As a result, a drive signal is output to each motor 526Z constituting the first display unit, and each rotating body 525Z starts operation. In the following step S1905, the light emission control process of the side light 528 of the first display unit is executed. As a result, if the power supply to the side light 528 has already been made, the power supply is continued, and if part or all of the power supply to the side light 528 is not performed, those side lights 528 are not supplied. Power supply to is started.

Returning to the description of step S1902, if an affirmative determination is made in step S1902, that is, if the game is being played with respect to the upper operating port 83a, the process proceeds to step S1906. In step S1906, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to confirm and display the symbol combination in the game times related to the upper operating port 83a. If an affirmative determination is made in step S1906, the process proceeds to step S1907.

In step S1907, the stop control process of the first display unit is executed. As a result, all the rotating bodies 525Z constituting the first display unit are stopped, and the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1906, the process proceeds to step S1908 to execute the light emission / drive control process for the first display unit during fluctuation. As a result, the left symbol column and the right symbol column are stopped and displayed to shift to the reach display, or the middle symbol column is specially changed. The specific flow of the display effect in this case is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Returning to the explanation of step S1901, when an affirmative judgment is made in step S1901, that is, when it is the timing to confirm and display the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b, step S1909 is performed. move on. In step S1909, a turn-off control process is executed so as to turn off all the side lights 528Z for the first display unit. That is, when the game rotation related to the lower operating port 83b progresses during the first normal gaming state and the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped and displayed on the second display unit, the symbol on the first display unit is displayed. Is hidden, and the structure does not interfere with the visibility of the symbol combination displayed by the second display unit behind.

After that, in step S1910, a forced stop control process is executed so that each rotating body 525Z of the first display unit is stopped and displayed. When each rotating body 525Z is forcibly stopped, the combination of the light emitting units 553Z corresponding to the disconnection result is stopped in the variable display area, but the supply of light from the side light 528Z is stopped in step S1909. Therefore, these light emitting units 553Z do not emit light.

(Special control processing for upper working port)
Next, a special control process for the upper operating port, which is executed when the game is in the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state in which the game progresses based on the entry of the ball into the lower operating port 83b, will be described. As shown in FIG. 59, in the special control process for the upper operating port, first, in step S2001, the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is confirmed and displayed (final stop display) in the game times related to the lower operating port 83b. Determine if it exists. If a negative determination is made in step S2001, the process proceeds to step S2002.

In step S2002, it is determined whether or not the game rotation related to the upper operating port 83a is in progress. If a negative determination is made in step S2002, the process proceeds to step S2003. In step S2003, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the game round related to the upper operating port 83a. If a negative determination is made in step S2003, the special control process for the main actuating port is terminated as it is.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S2003, the drive control start process of the first display unit is executed in step S2004, and then the special control process for the main actuation port is terminated. By the drive control start processing of the first display unit, the output of the drive signal to each motor 526Z for the first display unit is started, and each rotating body 525Z starts operation. However, since the side light 528 for the first display unit is maintained in the extinguished state, the symbol in the first display unit remains hidden. That is, each rotating body 525Z slips.

Returning to the description of step S2002, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2002, the process proceeds to step S2005. In step S2005, it is determined whether or not the symbol combination is being confirmed and displayed in the game times related to the upper operating port 83a. If a negative determination is made in step S2005, the process proceeds to step S2006.

In step S2006, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to confirm the symbol combination (final stop display) in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a. If a negative determination is made in step S2006, the drive control process for changing the first display unit is executed in step S2010. As a result, the rotation / stop of each rotating body 525 is controlled. However, even in this case as well, since the side light 528 for the first display unit is turned off, the symbol remains undisplayed.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S2006, the process proceeds to step S2007. In step S2007, the stop control process of the first display unit is executed. When the current game round corresponds to the jackpot result, the light emitting unit 553Z for the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped at any of the effective lines L1 to L5, and the current game round is missed. If so, the light emitting unit 553Z for symbol combination corresponding to the disengagement result is stopped at the effective lines L1 to L5.

In the following step S2008, it is determined whether or not the game result of this time corresponds to the jackpot result. If a negative determination is made in step S2008, the special control process for the main actuating port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2008, the process proceeds to step S2009, and the light emission control process of the side light 528Z for the first display unit is executed. As a result, light is supplied from the side light 528Z only to the light emitting portion 553Z on the line on which the jackpot symbol combination is formed, and the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result suddenly appears in the first display unit.

Returning to the description of step S2005, if an affirmative determination is made in the step S2005, that is, if the confirmation display is in progress, the process proceeds to step S2011. In step S2011, it is determined whether or not the confirmation display period has elapsed and it is the timing to end the confirmation display. If a negative determination is made in step S2011, the special control process for the main actuation port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2011, the process proceeds to step S2012. In step S2012, it is determined whether or not the game result of this time is a big hit result. If it is a big hit result, the process proceeds to step S2013, and a light emission extension control process is executed to extend the light emission of the side light 528 of the first display unit until the end of the special gaming state.

As described in detail above, when a big hit result is obtained in the game times related to the upper operating port 83a during the second normal game state and the third normal game state, only the result is displayed on the first display unit. The display will continue until the end of the special gaming state. On the other hand, if the result is disengaged in the game rotation related to the upper operating port 83a during the second normal game state and the third normal game state, the rotating body 525Z is also stopped according to the result. However, the symbol combination corresponding to the out-of-order result remains hidden.

(Display processing for lower operating port)
Next, the control process for the lower working port will be described with reference to FIGS. 60 to 62. As shown in FIG. 60, in the lower operating port control process, first, in step S2101, it is determined whether or not the player is in the second normal gaming state or the third normal gaming state. If an affirmative judgment is made in step S2101, the main control process for the lower working port is executed in step S2102, and if a negative judgment is made in step S2101, a special control processing for the lower working opening is executed in step S2103. do.

(Main control process for lower operating port)
As shown in FIG. 61, in the main control process for the lower operating port, first, in step S2201, at the timing of confirming and displaying (final stop display) the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a. Determine if it exists. If a negative determination is made in step S2201, the process proceeds to step S2202.

In step S2202, it is determined whether or not the game is being rotated according to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2202, the process proceeds to step S2203. In step S2203, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2203, the main process for the lower working port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2203, the process proceeds to step S2204.

In step S2204, the drive control start processing of the second display unit is executed. As a result, a drive signal is output to each motor 726Z constituting the second display unit, and each rotating body 725Z starts operation. As described above, in the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state, the side light 728Z of the second display unit is basically maintained in the lit state. 2 The display unit will start the variable display of the symbol.

Returning to the description of step S2202, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2202, that is, if the game is in progress related to the lower operating port 83b, the process proceeds to step S2205. In step S2205, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to confirm the symbol combination (final stop display) in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2205, the process proceeds to step S2206.

In step S2206, the stop control process of the second display unit is executed. As a result, all the rotating bodies 725Z constituting the second display unit are stopped, and the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S2205, the process proceeds to step S2207 to execute the light emission / drive control process for the second display unit during fluctuation. As a result, the left symbol column and the right symbol column are stopped and displayed to shift to the reach display, or the middle symbol column is specially changed. The specific flow of the display effect in this case is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Returning to the description of step S2201, when an affirmative determination is made in step S2201, that is, when it is time to confirm and display the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a, step S2208 is performed. move on. In step S2208, a turn-off control process is executed so as to turn off all the side lights 728Z for the second display unit. That is, when the game rotation related to the upper operating port 83a progresses during the second normal game state or the third normal game state, and the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped and displayed on the first display unit, the symbol combination is stopped and displayed. The symbol in the second display unit is hidden, and the information provided to the player is excessive to prevent the player from being confused.

After that, in step S2209, a forced stop control process is executed so that each rotating body 725Z of the second display unit is stopped and displayed. When each rotating body 725Z is forcibly stopped, the combination of the light emitting units 753Z corresponding to the disconnection result is stopped in the variable display area, but the supply of light from the side light 728Z is stopped in step S2208. Therefore, these light emitting units 753Z do not emit light.

(Special control processing for lower operating port)
Next, a special control process for the lower operating port, which is executed when the game is in the first normal gaming state in which the game progresses based on the entry of the ball into the upper operating port 83a, will be described. As shown in FIG. 62, in the special control process for the lower operating port, first, in step S2301, at the timing of confirming the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result (final stop display) in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a. Determine if it exists. If a negative determination is made in step S2301, the process proceeds to step S2302.

In step S2302, it is determined whether or not the game is being rotated according to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2302, the process proceeds to step S2303. In step S2303, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2303, the special control process for the lower working port is terminated as it is.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S2303, the process proceeds to step S2304. In step S2304, a special control process for the side light of the second display unit is executed, and in a subsequent step S2305, a drive control process for the second display unit is executed. As a result, the output of the drive signal to each motor 726Z for the second display unit is started, and each rotating body 725Z starts operation. In this case, the light emitting unit 753Z for the background and the light emitting unit 753Z for the design pass through the variable display area at a predetermined cycle, but the period during which the light emitting unit 753Z for the design passes through the variable display area. The supply of light from the side light 728Z is temporarily stopped. As a result, the background appears to be blinking from the player's point of view.

Returning to the description of step S2302, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2302, the process proceeds to step S2306. In step S2306, it is determined whether or not the symbol combination is being confirmed and displayed in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2306, the process proceeds to step S2307.

In step S2307, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to confirm the symbol combination (final stop display) in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b. If a negative determination is made in step S2307, the light emission / drive control process for changing the second display unit is executed in step S2311. As a result, the side light 728Z is switched on / off according to the rotation position of each rotating body 725Z, and the background is blinking and displayed, while the symbol in the second display unit is not displayed. When the game rotation related to the lower operating port 83b is executed in the first normal game state, each rotating body 725Z is stopped when the timing of the confirmed display is reached without going through the reach display described above. It will be.

If an affirmative determination is made in step S2307, the process proceeds to step S2308. In step S2308, the stop control process of the second display unit is executed. When the current game round corresponds to the jackpot result, the light emitting unit 753Z for the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped at any of the effective lines L1 to L5, and the current game round is missed. If so, the light emitting unit 753Z for symbol combination corresponding to the disengagement result is stopped at the effective lines L1 to L5.

In the following step S2309, it is determined whether or not the game result of this time corresponds to the jackpot result. If a negative determination is made in step S2309, the special control process for the lower working port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2309, the process proceeds to step S2310 to execute the light emission control process of the side light 728Z for the second display unit. As a result, light is supplied from the side light 728Z only to the light emitting portion 753Z on the line on which the jackpot symbol combination is formed, and the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result suddenly appears in the second display unit.

Returning to the description of step S2306, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2306, that is, if the confirmation display is in progress, the process proceeds to step S2312. In step S2312, it is determined whether or not the confirmation display period has elapsed and it is the timing to end the confirmation display. If a negative determination is made in step S2312, the special control process for the main actuation port is terminated as it is. If an affirmative determination is made in step S2011, the process proceeds to step S2313. In step S2313, it is determined whether or not the game result of this time is a big hit result. If it is a big hit result, the process proceeds to step S2313 and the light emission extension control process is executed to extend the light emission of the side light 728Z of the second display unit until the end of the special gaming state.

Returning to the description of step S2301, if an affirmative determination is made in the step S2301, the process proceeds to step S2315. In step S2315, the forced stop control process of the second display unit is executed. That is, when the symbol combination that results in a big hit is stopped and displayed in the game round related to the upper operating port 83a in the first normal game state, each rotating body 725Z is forcibly stopped also for the second display unit. .. In this case, the second display unit is adjusted so that the combination of the light emitting units 753Z corresponding to the jackpot result does not stop on any of the effective lines L1 to L5.

As described in detail above, when a big hit result is obtained in the game round related to the lower operating port 83b during the first normal gaming state, only the result is displayed on the second display unit, and the display is special. It will continue until the end of the gaming state. On the other hand, if the result is disengaged in the game rotation related to the lower operating port 83b during the first normal gaming state, the rotating body 525Z is also stopped according to the result, but the disengagement result is dealt with. The symbol combination that has been created remains hidden.

When comparing the first normal gaming state corresponding to the low frequency support mode with the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state corresponding to the high frequency support mode, the latter has a higher frequency of entry into the operating port than the former. Will be higher. In consideration of such circumstances, the variable display time set in the second normal game state and the third normal game state is shortened to facilitate the progress of the game. When comparing the arrangement of the light emitting unit 553Z (design) in the first display unit and the arrangement of the light emitting unit 753Z (design) in the second display unit, in the former, one symbol is used for each symbol row. In the latter case, a plurality of each symbol is arranged in one symbol row. This is a device to improve the responsiveness of the symbol display when the game progresses by shortening the required period until the set symbol is stopped and displayed as much as possible.

The result of the lottery based on the ball entering the upper operating port 83a is displayed on the first display unit, and the result of the lottery based on the ball entering the lower operating port 83b is displayed on the second display unit. In this way, by separately providing the display unit for the upper operating port 83a and the display unit for the lower operating port 83b, the player can determine which operating port the ball is based on when the game is proceeding. It can be grasped promptly. However, when the display unit is provided for each operating port in this way, there is a concern that the burden on the player may increase or the lottery result may be overlooked due to the scattered points of interest. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, since the other display unit is configured to be visible through one display unit, the amount of movement of the line of sight between the display units can be reduced. .. Therefore, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned various inconveniences caused by providing individual display units for each operating port to enhance the originality. As a result, the effect of improving the degree of attention to the game can be suitably enhanced.

The display unit related to the first display unit and the display unit related to the second display unit are parallel to each other. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a large difference in visibility between the symbol display on the first display unit and the symbol display on the second display unit.

The variable display area of the symbol in the first display unit and the variable display area of the symbol in the second display unit overlap each other in the front-rear direction. With such a configuration, when the player is paying attention to one display unit and the other display unit is used to display a variable pattern, the effect is made flashy or an accent is added unnecessarily. It is possible to suitably reduce the chance that the variable display is overlooked without any trouble. In addition, even if the configuration is such that a large number of symbols are stopped and displayed by superimposing the positions (effective lines) where the symbol combinations corresponding to the lottery results are stopped and displayed on the front and back on the first display unit and the second display unit. It is possible to easily identify whether the symbol combination corresponds to the lottery result of this time.

As described above, in the configuration in which the stop display position (effective line) and the variable display area are overlapped back and forth, the symbols displayed on each display unit are different in appearance so that the symbols can be displayed on any display unit. It is possible to improve the discriminating power as to whether it is displayed. In particular, in a configuration in which the effective lines are aligned in the front and back, the symbols in the first display unit and the symbols in the second display unit are mixed, so that, for example, the symbol combination corresponding to the disengagement result is stopped and displayed in each display unit. In spite of this, it is possible to preferably avoid the appearance that the symbol combination corresponding to the jackpot result is stopped and displayed.

In the variable display mode in the first normal game state, the symbol in the second display unit is basically hidden, and in the variable display mode in the second normal game state and the third normal game state, it is basically in the first display unit. The design is hidden. With such a configuration, confusion between the display on the first display unit and the display on the second display unit can be suitably suppressed.

In the configuration in which the lottery by each lottery means is performed in parallel, a big hit result is obtained in the lottery based on the winning of the lower operating port 83b during the first normal game state, or the second normal game state and the third normal game state. There is a possibility that a big hit result may be obtained by a lottery based on winning a prize in the upper operating port 83a. In such a case, it is possible to substitute a display unit other than the display unit on the winning side to notify the winning result, but this may cause confusion for the player. On the other hand, if the variable display of the symbol is performed in the process of displaying the lottery result, the variable display of the symbol is duplicated in both display units, and the information to be provided to the player becomes excessive. In this regard, as shown in the present embodiment, if a big hit result is obtained in the lottery based on the winning of the upper operating port 83a during the second normal gaming state and the third normal gaming state, the first display is displayed. If the symbol corresponding to the winning result is displayed in the stopped state in the section, and a big hit result is obtained in the lottery based on the winning of the lower operating port 83b during the first normal game state, the second display section By setting the symbol corresponding to the winning result to be displayed in a stopped state, the occurrence of the above-mentioned various inconveniences can be suitably suppressed.

<Modification 1>
In the third embodiment described above, the background display function is provided to the second display unit, but it is sufficient if it has at least a function to execute the symbol display for the game round according to the lower operating port 83b. The display function can be omitted.

<Modification 2>
In the third embodiment described above, the side light 728 of the second display unit is turned on during the first normal game state, but the side light 728 is turned off during the first normal game state. May be.

<Modification 3>
In the third embodiment, when one of the first display unit and the second display unit is displaying the variation of the symbol, the other is not displaying the variation of the symbol (specifically, the rotating body). Light is not supplied even if the light is rotating), but the configuration is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a configuration in which variable display of symbols in each display unit is performed in parallel.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the first embodiment described above, it is configured to determine whether or not to shift to the high probability mode by a lottery based on the entry of balls into the operating ports 83a and 83b, but in the present embodiment, the operation is performed. A configuration that shifts to the high probability mode when a ball is entered into the advantageous entry portion provided in the variable winning device 82 during the special gaming state that has been shifted due to the lottery based on the entry into the mouths 83a and 83b. The feature is that the configuration is different from that of the first embodiment, and the configuration of the right route of the game area PE is partially devised in accordance with such a difference in game playability. It is one. Specifically, the distribution unit 810 built in the variable winning device 82 arranged on the right route and the stage unit 830 arranged at the upstream position (obliquely upward) of the variable winning device 82 on the right route. The configuration is different from that of the first embodiment in that the game mechanism 800 is provided. Hereinafter, the game mechanism 800 will be described with reference to FIGS. 63 to 66. 63 is a schematic view showing the game mechanism 800, FIG. 64 is a schematic view of the stage portion of the distribution unit 810 as viewed from above, FIG. 65 is a schematic view showing various states of the distribution unit, and FIG. 66 shows the stage unit 830. It is a schematic diagram. In FIG. 63, the distribution unit 810 and the stage unit 830 are shown side by side for convenience of explanation.

(Distribution unit 810)
First, the distribution unit 810 described on the right side of FIG. 63 will be described. The distribution unit has a stage portion 811 formed so that the game ball can roll. The stage portion 811 is formed with a first entry port 812, a second entry opening 813, and a third entry opening 814 as entry openings through which the game ball can pass (see FIG. 64). Each of these entrances 812 to 814 is open upward and is slightly larger than the game ball. The first entrance 812 is connected to the first branch passage 818, which is a disadvantageous passage, through the first communication passage 815, and the second entrance 813 is also connected to the first branch passage 818 through the second communication passage 816. It is connected to. On the other hand, the third entry port 814 is connected to the second branch passage portion 819 (the above-mentioned advantageous entry portion), which is a passage on the advantageous side, through the third connecting passage 817.

When a game ball enters the first branch passage portion 818 during the special game state, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. On the other hand, when a ball enters the second branch passage portion 819 during the special gaming state, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player and the normal gaming state shifts to after the end of the special gaming state. The lottery mode becomes a high probability mode. As described above, since the second branch passage portion 819 is given preferential treatment to the player more than the first branch passage portion 818, the player can use the game ball flowing into the variable winning device 82 as a third. It is assumed that the game is played with the expectation that the ball will enter the ball entrance 814.

The stage portion 811 is inclined downward toward each entry port 812 to 814, and the ball enters any of the entry ports 812 to 814 in the process of rolling along the inclination on the stage portion 811. .. The stage portion 811 is surrounded by the wall surface of the housing of the variable winning device 82. As a result, it is avoided that the game ball that has reached the stage portion 811 leaves the stage portion 811 through a ball other than the entrances 812 to 814.

The distribution unit 810 is provided with a movable body 821 as a regulating means for restricting the entry of balls into the first entry port 812 and the second entry port 813. The movable body 821 has a base portion 822 located below the stage portion 811 and a first columnar portion 823 and a second columnar portion 824 that stand upward from the base portion 822.

The tip of the first columnar portion 823 is inserted into the first connecting passage 815 from below, and the upper surface 823a of the first columnar portion 823 forms a part of the bottom surface of the first connecting passage 815. Further, the tip of the second columnar portion 824 is also inserted into the second connecting passage 816 from below, and the upper surface 824a of the second columnar portion 824 forms a part of the bottom surface of the second connecting passage 816. ing.

The movable body 821 is held so as to be able to move up and down by the housing of the variable winning device 82. In the state where the movable body 821 is waiting at the lower limit position shown in FIG. 65 (a), the game ball can enter the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813, and the stage portion. The probability that the game ball that has reached 811 will enter the third entrance 814 on the advantageous side is about 1/3.

On the other hand, in a state where the movable body 821 is waiting at the upper limit position shown in FIG. 65 (b), entry into the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813 is restricted. Specifically, the rolling surface of the stage portion 811 is complemented by the upper surfaces 823a and 824a of the columnar portions 823 and 824, and the game ball that rolls toward the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813 is It passes through the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813. As a result, the probability that the game ball that has reached the stage portion 811 will enter the third entrance 814 on the advantageous side is about 1/1.

One of the features of the present embodiment is that when the movable body 821 moves to the upper limit position, the waiting period for waiting at the upper limit position is diversified by using the stage unit 830. Hereinafter, the stage unit 830 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 63, the stage unit 830 has a stage unit 831 in which the game ball rolls like the distribution unit 810, and a part of the game ball flowing down the right route, specifically, the right route. The game ball that has flowed into the special entrance port 88 is guided to the stage portion 831.

The stage portion 831 has a mortar shape that is gently inclined downward toward the center thereof, and a central opening 832 opened upward is formed in the center portion (see FIG. 56 (b)). .. The game ball guided to the stage portion 831 approaches the central opening 832 while rotating around the central opening 832, and flows into the central opening 832.

The central opening 832 constitutes the entrance portion of the discharge passage 833 of the game ball in the stage portion 831. The discharge passage 833 extends in the vertical direction, and the game ball that has passed through the discharge passage 833 flows into the guide passage 836 provided below the discharge passage 833, and is a variable winning device via the guide passage 836. You will be guided to a position directly above 82. That is, among the game balls launched to the right route, those that have passed through the stage unit 830 also have room for entering the variable winning device 82.

The stage unit 830 is held so as to be able to move up and down in the vertical direction like the movable body 821, and the upper limit position and the lower limit position are defined by the stopper 834 attached to the stage unit 830. Although not shown, the stage unit 830 is urged to the upper limit position by an urging means (specifically, a spring member), and stands by at the upper limit position when the game ball is not placed on the stage portion 831. It is composed. However, when at least one game ball is placed on the stage unit 831, the stage unit 830 descends against the urging force of the urging means due to the weight of the game ball. The movement exceeding the lower limit position is blocked by the stopper 834.

The movable body 821 of the distribution unit 810 and the stage unit 830 shown in the present embodiment are connected via a link member 840. The link member 840 is rotatably supported at an intermediate position between the movable body 821 and the stage unit 830, and rotates about the shaft support portion (central axis CL2). It should be noted that the shaft support portion is set so as to be biased toward the movable body 821 side. This is a device for reducing the force required to raise and lower the movable body 821.

When the stage unit 830 located on one end side of the link member 840 descends, the movable body 821 located on the other end side of the link member 840 rises in conjunction with the descent. On the other hand, when the stage unit 830 rises, the movable body 821 descends in conjunction with this. Here, with reference to FIGS. 67 and 68, the flow of the game in the special game state will be illustrated.

When the game shifts to the special game state, the variable winning device 82 is opened, and the game ball flowing down the right route flows into the large winning opening. The game ball that has flowed into the large winning opening is guided to the stage portion 811 of the distribution unit 810.

As shown in FIG. 67, in a situation where the game ball is not placed on the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830 (a situation in which the game ball is not stopped), the first ball entry port 812 and the second ball entry port 813 of the distribution unit 810 are used. Is open, and the probability of entering the third entrance 814 on the advantageous side is about 1/3.

When the game ball is placed on the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830, the stage unit 830 is pushed by the game ball and descends to the lower limit position, and in conjunction with this, the movable body 821 of the distribution unit 810 moves to the upper limit position. Moving. In this state, as shown in FIG. 68, it is impossible to enter the ball into the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813, and the entry destination is substantially narrowed down to the third entry opening 814. Become. That is, the probability of entering the third entrance 814, which is the advantageous side, is temporarily but 1/1.

As shown in FIGS. 68 → 67, when the game ball located on the stage portion 831 leaves the stage unit 830 through the central opening 832, the stage unit 830 returns to the upper limit position by the urging force. In conjunction with this, the movable body 821 returns to the lower limit position, and the ball entry support to the third entry slot 814 by the movable body 821 is completed.

Here, the game ball that rolls to the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830 is finally discharged from the stage portion 831 through the central opening 832, but the period of stay in the stage portion 831 varies. That is, the length of stay differs depending on the slight difference in the moving speed, landing position, etc. when the stage portion 831 is reached. Therefore, the period in which the movable body 821 supports the entry of the ball into the third entry port 814 differs in length.

The stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830 shown in the present embodiment is configured so that a plurality of game balls can roll (stay) at the same time, and a plurality of game balls pass through the central opening 832 at the same time. It is a size that is impossible. As a result, a plurality of game balls are placed on the stage portion 831, so that the period of the ball entry support is extended. Therefore, in the special game state, the game is performed with the expectation that as many game balls as possible will be guided to the stage unit 831.

In the distribution unit 810 shown in the present embodiment, when the game ball is placed on the upper surfaces 823a and 824a, the movable body 821 tends to descend due to the weight of the game ball, so that the support period is extended. May be shortened. However, the area of the stage portion 831 is larger than the total area of the upper surfaces 823a and 824a of the columnar portions 823 and 824 of the movable body 821. This suppresses the frequent occurrence of the above-mentioned events.

When the game ball is placed on the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830, the movable body 821 of the distribution unit 810 is displaced from the lower limit position to the upper limit position, and when the game ball is separated from the stage portion 831, the movable body 821 is displaced from the upper limit position. Return to the lower limit position. Here, there is a difference in the length of stay in the stage unit 831 depending on the rolling mode of the game ball in the stage unit 831 (for example, the rolling direction and rolling speed of the game ball). That is, the period during which the movable body 821 is located at the upper limit position depends on the above-mentioned stay period. By suppressing the movement of the game mechanism 800 from becoming monotonous in this way, it is possible to contribute to improving the degree of attention to the game.

The movable body 821 is displaced to the lower limit position / upper limit position in conjunction with the ascending / descending operation of the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830. Here, by moving the operation direction of the stage unit 831 up and down, it is possible to suppress the change in the behavior of the game ball due to the movement of the stage unit 831. This is preferable in order to alleviate the bias of the waiting period in which the game ball waits on the stage portion 831.

In the configuration in which the stage unit 830 is moved up and down by using the weight of the game ball, the driving force depends on the weight of the game ball. As shown in the present embodiment, the stage unit 830 is arranged on one end side of the rotatably held link member 840, and the movable body 821 is arranged on the other end side, and the stage unit 830 and the movable body 830 are arranged. By forming the movements of the body 821 so as to be staggered up and down, it is possible to reduce the transmission loss of the output. This is preferable in order to increase the certainty of the operation of the game mechanism 800 on the premise that the driving force is small.

The stage portion 831 is formed so that a plurality of game balls can roll at the same time. In the configuration in which the weight of the game ball is used as the power to displace the movable body 821 as described above, the displacement speed (responsiveness) can be changed depending on the number of game balls that can be located on the stage portion 831. If the responsiveness changes according to the number of game balls in this way, it is possible to contribute to further diversification of the period during which the movable body 821 is maintained at the upper limit position.

The discharge passage 833 formed in the stage unit 830 extends vertically from the central opening 832 to form a vertical passage. With such a configuration, it is possible to avoid delaying the return of the stage unit 830 to the standby position due to being pushed by a game ball passing through the discharge passage 833. This can contribute to the improvement of responsiveness when the movable body 821 is displaced to the lower limit position / upper limit position.

The central opening 832 is sized so that a plurality of game balls cannot pass at the same time. Therefore, when a plurality of game balls roll on the stage portion 831, the game balls are sequentially detached from the stage portion 831, and the detachment is avoided at once. Therefore, the period during which the movable body 821 waits at the upper limit position (for example, the action period) can be diversified according to the number of game balls located on the stage portion 831.

<Modification 1>
In the fourth embodiment, when the movable body 821 is arranged at the upper limit position, the upper surfaces 823a and 824a of the columnar portions 823 and 824 are configured to complement the rolling surface of the game ball in the stage portion 811. , Not limited to this. For example, as shown in the schematic view of FIG. 69, when the movable body 821A is arranged at the upper limit position, the columnar portions 823A and 824A are configured to protrude upward from the rolling surface of the game ball in the stage portion 811. It is also possible. As a result, it is possible to reduce the chances that the game ball is placed on the upper surfaces 823aA and 824aA of the columnar portions 823A and 824A while restricting the entry of the ball into the ball entry ports 812A and 813A.

<Modification 2>
In the fourth embodiment, the movement direction (vertical direction) of the movable body 821 of the distribution unit 810 and the movement direction (vertical direction) of the stage unit 830 are aligned, but the configuration is limited to this. is not. For example, as shown in the schematic view of FIG. 70, a shutter 825B for opening and closing the ball entry port 812B and a urging means for urging the shutter 825B to a closed position are added, and the shutter 825B raises the movable body 821B. Therefore, it is also possible to slide and move from the closed position to the open position against the urging force of the urging means. With such a configuration, even if the game ball is placed on the shutter 825B, it is possible to avoid pushing down the movable body 821B due to its weight.

<Modification 3>
In the fourth embodiment, the game ball that has entered the special entry port 88 arranged on the right route is guided to the stage unit 830 (stage unit 831). In order to increase the variation in the moving speed of the game ball guided to the stage portion 831, it is preferable to incline the connecting passage 88bC connecting the special entry port 88C and the stage portion 831 as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 71. .. There is a difference in behavior between the case where the game ball flows into the opening 88aC of the special entry port 88C from the same side as the tilt direction and the case where the game ball flows in from the side opposite to the tilt direction. Since the momentum of the inflow of the game ball is less likely to be reduced in the former than in the latter, the difference in the moving speed when reaching the stage portion 831 can be made remarkable. This is preferable in increasing the width of the support period by the movable body 821.

Further, in order to provide a difference in moving speed, the connecting passage 88bC can be changed as follows. That is, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 72 (a), the connecting passage 88bD is branched into the first branch passage 88cD and the second branch passage 88dD at an intermediate position, and the game ball is placed at the branch position in the first branch passage. A distribution means 88gD for distributing to 88cD and the second branch passage 88dD is arranged. Then, deceleration portions 88eD and 88fD for decelerating the game ball are arranged in the first branch passage 88cD and the second branch passage 88dD, respectively, and the difference in the moving speed of the game ball at the time of passing through the respective branch passages 88cD and 88dD is obtained. It is good to make it happen.

In addition, this concept may be applied to the stage section 831 to make a difference in the staying period of the game ball in the stage section 831 according to the flow path.

<Modification example 4>
In the fourth embodiment, the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830 is shaped like a mortar to diversify the staying period of the game ball, but the specific configuration for providing a difference in the staying period is arbitrary. For example, as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 72 (b1), the stage unit 830E is provided with a first flow path 88cE having a relatively short passage time and a second flow path 88dE having a relatively long passage time, and the flow has passed. It is also possible to make a difference in the length of stay depending on the road. In this case, by allowing the game ball to move from one of the first flow path 88cE / second flow path 88dE to the other, it is possible to contribute to further diversification of the stay period. For example, as shown in the schematic view of FIG. 72 (b2), after offsetting the first flow path 88cE above the second flow path 88dE, the rolling surface of the game ball in the first flow path 88cE is set to the second. It is preferable to incline downward to the flow path 88dE side.

<Modification 5>
In the fourth embodiment described above, the stage unit 830 is configured to start descent by placing one game ball on the stage portion 831 of the stage unit 830, but the game ball that triggers the start of descent. The number of is not limited to this. For example, the descent may be started when two game balls are placed, or the descent may be started when three or more game balls are placed.

<Modification 6>
In the fourth embodiment described above, the configuration of shifting to the high probability mode based on the entry into the third entry opening 814 is exemplified, but at least the difference in advantage is provided in the entry openings 812 to 814. If so, it is sufficient, and it is also possible to have a configuration in which the round game in the special game state is continued by entering the ball into the third entrance 814. Further, it is not necessary to apply the distribution unit to the variable winning device 82, and the distribution unit may be provided separately from the variable winning device 82. In this case, the jackpot lottery is executed when the ball enters the first entry port 812 and the second entry opening 813, and the jackpot is confirmed when the ball enters the third entry opening 814. It is also possible.

<Modification 7>
In the fourth embodiment, the difference in advantage is provided so that the third entry port 814 is more advantageous to the player than the first entry opening 812 and the second entry opening 813. It is also possible to reverse. That is, a difference in advantage may be provided so that the third entry port 814 is more disadvantageous to the player than the first entry opening 812 and the second entry opening 813.

<Modification 8>
It suffices if the movable body is configured to be in an operating state for the period during which the game ball stays on the stage unit 830, and its action does not necessarily have to be "distribution of the game ball". There is no. For example, a configuration corresponding to the stage unit 830 may be applied to the movable decorative body for staging.

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

(1) In each of the above embodiments, the light guide portions 532 and 732 are rotatable, but the present invention is not limited to this. The operation mode of the light guide unit is arbitrary, and for example, a slide type can be used. In the case of the slide type, it is preferable that the slide direction is the same as the arrangement direction (arrangement direction of the symbols) of the light emitting portions 533 and 753.

(2) In each of the above embodiments, the scroll direction (vertical direction) of the symbol in the first display unit and the scroll direction (vertical direction) of the symbol in the second display unit are aligned, but the configuration is limited to this. It's not something. For example, it is possible to configure the scroll direction of the symbol in the first display unit to intersect with the scroll direction of the symbol in the second display unit.

(3) The processing direction of the light emitting units 533 and 753 shown in each of the above embodiments is arbitrary. For example, unevenness as a "light emitting portion" may be formed by edging processing, may be formed by laser processing or molding, or may be formed by printing.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, the light emitting unit 555, 753 is configured by forming fine irregularities on the surface of the light guide unit 532,732, but a specific configuration for light emission in the light guide unit. Is optional. For example, it is also possible to include a medium having a refractive index different from that of the base of the light guide portion in the light guide portion so that the light reaching the medium is emitted from the light guide portion.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the display surface of the first display unit and the display surface of the second display unit are made parallel, but the present invention is not limited to this. As long as an operating gap is secured for the operation of each display unit, the display surface of the first display unit and the display surface of the second display unit may be configured to face different directions.

(6) In each of the above embodiments, the light guide unit 532 moves by operating the light guide unit 532 under the condition that the supply of light from the side light 528 to the light guide unit 532 is stopped. However, in order to embody such a technical idea, if at least a part of the period during which the light supply is stopped is used as the operation period of the light guide unit 532. Sufficiently, it is not always necessary to use the entire period during which supply is stopped as the operating period.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, the boundary portion BP1 of the light guide panels 555 to 557 extends in the same direction as the rotation center axis CL of the rotating body 525, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a configuration that extends in a direction intersecting the direction of the rotation center axis CL.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the case where the symbol combination corresponding to the lottery result is displayed by three drums is illustrated, but the number of drums is arbitrary. For example, it may be one, two, or four or more.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, when the main control device 162 performs a lottery based on the hold information, the pattern changes in the operation port display unit of the main display unit at the same time as the lottery (specifically, immediately after the lottery). Display and variable display The configuration is such that the variable display of the symbol in the variable display area of the unit 500 is started, but the present invention is not limited to this. Prior to the lottery, it is also possible to start the variable display of the design on the display unit for the operating port and the variable display of the design in the variable display area of the variable display unit 500.

(10) In each of the above embodiments, the lottery relating to the upper operating port 83a and the lottery relating to the lower operating port 83b are configured so as not to provide a difference in advantage, but a difference in advantage is provided in each lottery. You may. For example, the lottery related to the lower operating port 83b may be configured to be more advantageous to the player than the lottery related to the upper operating port 83a.

(11) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiments, for example, a pachinko machine in which the electric accessory is opened a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of the special device, or a game in a specific area of the special device. The present invention can also be applied to a pachinko machine in which a right is generated when a ball enters and becomes a big hit, a pachinko machine equipped with other accessories, an arrange ball machine, a game machine such as a sparrow ball, and the like.

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

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

<About the invention group extracted from each of the above embodiments>
Hereinafter, the 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 the above-described embodiment 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>
The following feature A group is described in "Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a variable pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, it is provided in a gaming area. When the game ball passes through the operating opening, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a specific game state advantageous to the player such as a hit state is generated, and a variable display of the pattern is started. In the case of winning, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-074175). "In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the degree of attention to games." The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features A1. The variable display of the pattern is started based on the establishment of the predetermined start condition (winning of the operating ports 83a and 83b), and the pattern corresponding to the lottery result by the lottery means (lottery function in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) is displayed. A gaming machine equipped with a pattern display means (variable display unit 500 and notification / effect control device 140) for displaying a stop display.
The pattern display means is a light emitting unit (side) that supplies light to a light guide body (light guide unit 532) in which a plurality of light emission units (light emission unit 553) are formed and an end surface (end surface 554) of the light guide body. It has a light 528), and is configured to display the pattern by emitting the light from the light emitting unit when the light is supplied from the light emitting unit to the light guide body. A game machine featuring.

In the pattern display means shown in the feature A1, the pattern is displayed by emitting the light from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit formed on the light guide body. It is possible to switch the display / non-display of the pattern by turning on / off the light emitting unit, and it is also possible to change the color of the pattern by changing the emission color. As described above, it is preferable to construct the pattern display means by using the light guide body and the light emitting unit in combination in order to diversify the display mode of the pattern and to improve the degree of attention to the game.

It is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the following features A2 to A14 to this feature.

Feature A2. The variable display of the pattern is started based on the establishment of the predetermined start condition (winning of the operating ports 83a and 83b), and the pattern corresponding to the lottery result by the lottery means (lottery function in the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) is displayed. A gaming machine equipped with a pattern display means (variable display unit 500 and notification / effect control device 140) for displaying a stop display.
The pattern display means is
Light emitting part (side light 528) and
A light guide body (light guide unit) is configured such that a light emitting unit (light emitting unit 553) is formed and the pattern is displayed by emitting light supplied from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit. 532) and
A changing means for changing the pattern displayed on the light guide body by operating at least one of the light guide body and the light emitting unit to change the irradiation location of light from the light emitting unit to the light emitting unit. A gaming machine characterized by having (notification / effect control device 140).

In the pattern display means shown in the feature A2, the pattern is displayed by emitting the light from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit formed on the light guide body. Then, the pattern displayed on the light guide body is changed by operating at least one of the light guide body and the light emitting unit to change the irradiation location of the light in the light guide body. With such a configuration, the display of the pattern can be made novel, and it can contribute to the improvement of the degree of attention to the game.

Feature A3. The light emitting portion is arranged so as to face the end face (end face 554) of the light guide body.
The gaming machine according to feature A2, wherein the changing means is configured to change the irradiation location of the end surface of the light from the light emitting portion.

By adopting a configuration in which the light from the light emitting portion is applied to the end face of the light guide body, it is possible to suppress the light source from being noticeable when visually checking the pattern.

Feature A4. When the pattern displayed on the light guide body is in a non-supply state (light-off state) in which light is not supplied from the light emitting unit to the light guide body, the pattern cannot be visually recognized or is said from the light emitting unit. The gaming machine according to feature A2 or feature A3, wherein the light is harder to see than a supply state (lighting state) in which light is supplied to the light guide body.

According to the feature A4, the pattern becomes invisible or difficult to see (hereinafter, also referred to as non-display) due to the change from the supply state to the non-supply state. By making it possible to switch between display and non-display of the pattern in this way, it is possible to limit the information provided to the player by the pattern display means according to the game situation. In addition, it can contribute to the diversification of display modes when variable display of patterns is performed.

Feature A5. The changing means is characterized in that at least one of the light guide body and the light emitting unit is operated in the supply state to change the irradiation point of the light in the light guide body. The gaming machine described in A4.

When the pattern is changed, if at least one of the light guide and the light emitting unit is operated in the supply state of supplying light, the pattern can be made to appear to move in the direction of the operation.

Feature A6. The pattern display means has a holding portion (base body 524) that operably holds the light guide body.
The game according to any one of the features A2 to A5, wherein the changing means is configured to operate the light guide body to change the irradiation point of the light in the light guide body. Machine.

If the light guide body itself is moved instead of the light emitting unit (light source), it is possible to preferably avoid that the pattern change mode is restricted by the length of the wiring or the like. In addition, since the position of the light emitting unit can be fixed, it is possible to replace the patterns displayed at the same position, and even when the patterns are variably displayed, the points that the player should pay attention to are unified. be able to. This is a preferable configuration for suppressing overlooking of the pattern display and reducing the fatigue of the player.

Feature A7. The gaming machine according to feature A6, wherein the operating direction of the light guide is set so as to intersect the light irradiation direction of the light emitting portion.

With the operation of the light guide body, it is possible to suppress a change in the distance between the light irradiation target (end face) and the light emitting portion in the light guide body. This is preferable in order to prevent the supply amount of light from the light emitting portion from being insufficient due to the light being diffused by the time the end face is irradiated with the light from the light emitting portion.

Feature A8. The light emitting portions are provided side by side in the operating direction of the light guide body.
As the light emitting unit, it has a first light emitting unit and a second light emitting unit provided side by side in the operating direction of the light guide body.
The pattern display means has the feature A6 or the feature A7 characterized in that the number of displayed patterns can be changed by individually controlling the light emission of the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit. The described gaming machine.

By making it possible to increase or decrease the number of patterns displayed by using the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit, which can be individually controlled in combination, according to the game situation, etc., the expressive power of the pattern display means is dramatically improved. Can be improved.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "the light emitting unit is arranged in the operating direction of the light guide body, and the first light emitting unit and the light emitting unit provided side by side in the operating direction of the light guide body are provided as the light emitting unit. The number of symbols displayed at the predetermined display position in the operating direction by having the second light emitting unit and controlling the light emission of the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit individually. The gaming machine according to the feature A6 or the feature A7, which is characterized in that the above can be changed. "

Feature A9. The game according to any one of the features A4 to A8, wherein the pattern display means has a means for stopping the supply of light from the light emitting unit during the operation of the light guide body. Machine.

Even in a conventional gaming machine, it is possible to make the design virtually indistinguishable, for example, by displaying the design in a variable manner at high speed. However, such a movement hinders the improvement of the durability of the pattern display means. In particular, since the light guide body is heavier than paper or the like, there is a concern that such inconvenience will become remarkable.

Here, in the configuration shown in this feature, the pattern displayed on the light guide can be suddenly erased by stopping the supply of light from the light emitting unit. With the configuration in which the appearance is greatly changed (the distinctiveness is changed) by controlling the light emission of the light emitting unit in this way, it is possible to suitably suppress the deterioration of durability due to the diversification of the display mode.

For example, it is advisable to use both a display mode in which the process of changing the pattern is clearly shown and a display mode in which the process of changing the pattern is not specified. With such a configuration, the mode of variable display of the pattern can be suitably diversified.

Feature A10. The light emitting unit is a first light emitting unit, and when light from the first light emitting unit is emitted from the light emitting unit located at a predetermined display position, the pattern is displayed at the predetermined display position. It is composed and
The light emitting portion has an uneven shape and has an uneven shape.
The pattern display means has a second light emitting unit (backlight 582 of the background display device 529) capable of irradiating a portion of the light guide body located at the predetermined display position with light from the rear of the gaming machine. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature A6 to the feature A8.

When the light emitting part is composed of minute irregularities, the position and shape of the light emitting part cannot be visually specified because the ambient light such as the lighting of the game hall is diffused by the light emitting part. It will be difficult to make it possible. That is, there is a possibility that the shape and position of the light emitting portion can be grasped by paying close attention. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the light emitting unit is configured to irradiate the light guide with light, the ambient light or the like is confused by the light from the second light emitting unit, and the shape and position of the light emitting unit are changed. It can be difficult to grasp. This is preferable in order to enhance the impact when the pattern suddenly appears by switching the supply state / non-supply state of the first light emitting unit.

Feature A11. The changing means provides the light guide body under the condition that the supply of light to the light guide body by the first light emitting unit is stopped and the light is irradiated to the light guide body by the second light emitting unit. The gaming machine according to feature A10, which comprises means for operating.

When operating the light guide, it cannot be denied that the light emitting portion may be used as a mark to identify that the light guide is in operation by carefully squinting. This is a factor that reduces the impact when the light guide body is operated with the first light emitting unit in the non-supply state and the patterns are suddenly replaced. Therefore, when the patterns are replaced, as shown in this feature, the supply of light to the light guide body by the first light emitting unit is stopped, and the light is irradiated to the light guide body by the second light emitting unit. If the light guide body is operated underneath, the ambient light or the like can be distracted by the light from the second light emitting unit. This makes it difficult to know that the light guide is in operation, and the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed.

Feature A12. In the second light emitting portion, when the light emitting portion is located at the predetermined display position, a portion where the light emitting portion is formed and the light emitting portion are formed by the light guide body. The gaming machine according to the feature A10 or the feature A11, which is configured to be able to irradiate both of the non-existing parts with light.

According to the feature A12, since the light from the second light emitting portion irradiates the light emitting portion located at the predetermined display position and the peripheral portion thereof, the shape of the light emitting portion and the operating state of the light guide body can be specified. It is possible to preferably exert the effect of making it difficult to understand.

Feature A13. The light guide has transparency, and is configured so that the gaming device (background display device 529) located behind the portion where the pattern is displayed can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine.
The pattern is invisible when the light is not supplied from the light emitting unit to the light guide body (lighting off state), or the light is supplied from the light emitting unit in the supply state (lighting). The gaming machine according to any one of the feature A2 to the feature A12, which is configured to be more difficult to see than the state).

According to the feature A13, the pattern becomes invisible or difficult to see by changing from the supplied state to the non-supplied state. As a result, the visibility of the gaming device located behind the light guide can be changed. For example, when the game is advanced mainly by the effect of the game device, the pattern is not visible or difficult to see by switching to the non-supply state, so that the pattern does not interfere with the visual recognition of the game device. can.

Feature A14. The pattern display means is
A display device (second display unit) that can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine through the light guide, and
The display device has a display control means (a function of executing light emission / drive control of the second display unit by the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140) for variable display of the pattern.
As the pattern, a first pattern displayed on the light guide body and a second pattern displayed on the display device are provided.
The first pattern displayed on the light guide is invisible or from the light emitting unit when the light is not supplied from the light emitting unit to the light guide in a non-supply state (light-off state). It becomes more difficult to see than the supply state (lighting state) in which light is supplied to the light guide body.
The display control means is configured to execute the variable display of the second pattern on the display device in the non-supply state, while not executing the variable display of the second pattern on the display device in the supply state. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature A2 to the feature A13, which is characterized by being present.

According to the feature A14, it is possible to suppress that one of the variable display of the pattern by the light guide and the variable display of the pattern by the display device is a factor of lowering the visibility in the situation where one is focused on.

<Characteristic B group>
The following feature B group is described as follows: "Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that variablely displays a pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, it is provided in a gaming area. When the game ball passes through the operating opening, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a specific game state advantageous to the player such as a hit state is generated, and a variable display of the pattern is started. In the case of winning, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-074175). "In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the degree of attention to games." The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature B1. A gaming machine provided with a pattern display means (variable display unit 500 and notification / effect control device 140) that variably displays a pattern as the game progresses.
The pattern display means is
It forms an annular or substantially annular shape centered on a predetermined central axis (rotating central axis CL), is rotatably provided around the predetermined central axis, and a part of the outer peripheral surface (outer surface portion 551) is a gaming machine. A light guide unit (light guide unit 532) arranged so as to face forward, and
The light guide portion has a light emitting portion (side light 528) that supplies light to an end face (end face 554) facing the same direction as the predetermined central axis.
A plurality of light emitting portions (light emitting portions 553) are provided on the outer peripheral surface so as to be arranged in the rotation direction of the light guide portion.
The light guide unit is configured to display the pattern by emitting light supplied from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit to the outside of the light emitting unit.
A gaming machine characterized in that, by rotating the light guide portion around a predetermined central axis, a supply point to which light is supplied from the light emitting portion is changed on the end surface of the light guide portion.

According to the feature B1, the light supply location in the light guide portion (end face) is changed by rotating the light guide portion forming an annular shape or a substantially annular shape. As a result, the pattern is variably displayed on the light guide unit. Since the light guide portion is annular or substantially annular, the variable display of the pattern can be continued without reversing the rotation direction of the light guide portion. That is, it is possible to prevent the light guide unit from becoming excessively large in order to perform dynamic display using the light guide unit and enhance the expressive power and the like. This is a preferable configuration for improving the attention of the player.

It should be noted that the configuration shown in this feature is "held by the information acquisition means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162) for acquiring special information (holding information) when predetermined acquisition conditions (winning of operating ports 83a and 83) are satisfied." Information acquisition function), lottery means for performing lottery based on the information acquired by the information acquisition means (lottery function in MPU 602 of the main control device 162), and notification means for notifying the lottery result by the lottery means (function). A gaming machine including a main display unit 87) and a picture display means (variable display unit 500 and a notification / effect control device 140) that variably displays a picture according to the progress of the game, and the picture display means is , Forming an annular or substantially annular shape centered on a predetermined central axis (rotating central axis CL), is rotatably provided around the predetermined central axis, and a part of the outer peripheral surface (outer surface portion 551) is played. A light emitting unit (side light 528) that supplies light to a light guide unit (light guide unit 532) arranged so as to face the front of the machine and an end surface (end surface 554) of the light guide unit that faces the central axis direction. The outer peripheral surface is provided with a plurality of light emitting portions (light emitting portions 553) arranged side by side in the rotation direction of the light guide portion, and the light emitting portion is supplied from the light emitting unit. The pattern is displayed by emitting the light from the light emitting unit, and the light guide unit rotates about the predetermined central axis to rotate the end face of the light guide unit. The game machine is characterized in that the supply point where the light is supplied from the light emitting unit is changed. ”

Feature B2. The gaming machine according to feature B1, wherein the light emitting unit to be emitted light is switched among the plurality of light emitting units by changing the supply location.

As shown in this feature, if the light emitting unit to be emitted is switched, the pattern displayed at a predetermined display position can be changed (replaced). In this way, if the displayed patterns are exchanged, it is possible to greatly change the appearance of the display by the pattern display means.

Feature B3. The gaming machine according to feature B1 or feature B2, wherein the light guide portion has an annular shape and its end surface is located on a plane orthogonal to the predetermined central axis.

According to the feature B3, the distance from the light emitting portion to the end face of the light guide portion is constant at any rotation position. Therefore, it is not necessary to change the position and orientation of the light emitting unit according to the change of the light supply location. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the configuration related to the light supply in the pattern display means.

Feature B4. The gaming machine according to feature B3, wherein the light emitting unit is configured so that the irradiation direction of light is the same as the predetermined central axis.

In the configuration shown in the feature B4, the irradiation direction of the light and the arrangement direction of the light emitting portions intersect. That is, when a plurality of light emitting parts are used in combination, it is avoided that the light emitting parts are arranged in the light irradiation direction. Therefore, when switching the displayed pattern according to the rotation position, it is possible to suppress the supply of light to the pattern that is not the display target, and the pattern that should not be displayed is faintly emitted. Occurrence of inconvenience can be suitably avoided.

Feature B5. The light guide portion is formed so that the disposed region and the non-arranged region of the light emitting portion alternate in the rotation direction of the light guide portion.
The gaming machine according to feature B4, wherein a regulating portion for restricting the passage of light is provided in a portion of the end surface of the light guide portion corresponding to the non-dispersed region.

As shown in the feature B5, the arranged region and the non-arranged region are alternately arranged, and the regulation portion is provided in the portion corresponding to the non-arranged region, so that the light supply path can make the non-arranged region. It is possible to suppress straddling. Thereby, the effect shown in the feature B4 can be more preferably exhibited.

Feature B6. A rotating body (rotating body 525) is composed of the light guide portion and a frame (frame 531) to which the light guide portion is fixed.
The end portion on the side where the end face is formed in the light guide portion extends laterally from the frame.
An insertion portion (insertion portion 561) through which the end portion of the light guide portion is inserted is provided.
The gaming machine according to any one of features B3 to B5, wherein the light emitting portion is arranged at a portion facing the end face at the insertion portion.

As shown in the feature B3 and the like, in the configuration in which the light guide portion has an annular shape, an insertion portion is provided in which the portion (end) extending from the frame is inserted in the light guide portion, and this insertion portion is provided. The following effects can be expected by arranging the light emitting portion in the portion. That is, even when the movement of the light guide portion becomes unstable, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the light guide portion at a location (insertion portion) close to the light irradiation position. As a result, the light supply function can be stably exerted.

By making the insertion portion colored and opaque to hide the light emitting portion, the appearance of the pattern display means can be suitably improved.

Feature B7. The game according to feature B6, wherein the pattern display means has a base body (base body 524) that rotatably holds the rotating body, and the insertion portion is provided in the base body. Machine.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, by providing the insertion portion in the base body holding the rotating body, the gap with the light guide portion can be made as small as possible. This is preferable in terms of suppressing strong interference between the insertion portion and the light guide portion and suppressing light leakage from the insertion portion.

Feature B8. The gaming machine according to feature B6 or feature B7, wherein the insertion portion faces the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface of the light guide portion with a gap.

In a configuration that changes the positional relationship between the light emitting part and the light guide part, if the light guide part and the insertion part come into contact with each other and the light guide part is damaged, there is a concern that light leakage or the like is likely to occur in that part. Will be done. This is a factor that lowers the efficiency of supplying light to the light emitting part. Therefore, as shown in this feature, by forming a gap between the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface of the light guide portion to avoid contact between the insertion portion and the light guide portion, such inconvenience can occur. It can be suitably suppressed.

Feature B9. The game according to feature B8, wherein the insertion portion is opened to the original side in the rotation direction of the light guide portion, and is expanded so as to increase the gap toward the opening portion. Machine.

By dividing the above-mentioned light guide unit into a plurality of pieces in the rotation direction, for example, it is possible to contribute to facilitation of manufacturing and reduction of manufacturing cost. However, in such a configuration, if the portion that becomes the boundary (edge) of each piece is caught in the open portion (entrance portion) of the insertion portion, it is assumed that the behavior of the light guide portion is disturbed. Therefore, as shown in this feature, the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by forming the gap so as to increase toward the open portion and suppressing the catching between the edge and the insertion portion.

Feature B10. The gaming machine according to feature B9, wherein the open portion of the insertion portion has a component facing the rear of the gaming machine.

In the configuration in which the open portion (entrance portion) is expanded as shown in the feature B9, light easily leaks from this portion. Therefore, by directing the open portion toward the rear side of the gaming machine, even if light leaks, it can be made inconspicuous.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the feature A group to the features B1 to B10 described in detail above.

<Characteristic C group>
The following feature C group is described in "Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a variable pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, it is provided in a gaming area. When the game ball passes through the operating opening, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a specific game state advantageous to the player such as a hit state is generated, and a variable display of the pattern is started. In the case of winning, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-074175). "In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the degree of attention to games." The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features C1. A gaming machine equipped with a pattern display means (variable display unit 500) that variably displays a pattern as the game progresses.
The pattern display means is
The first light emitting section (for example, the light emitting section 553 corresponding to the "6" symbol) and the second light emitting section (for example, the light emitting section 553 corresponding to the "7" symbol) are formed having light transmission. A light guide unit (light guide unit) that can switch between a first state in which one light emitting unit is located at a predetermined display position (effective line) and a second state in which the second light emitting unit is located at the predetermined display position. 532) and
A drive unit (motor 525) that drives the light guide unit and
A drive control means (a drive control function in the MPU 652 of the notification / staging control device 140) for switching the light guide unit between the first state and the second state by controlling the drive of the drive unit.
A light emitting unit (side light 528) that supplies light to the end surface of the light guide unit,
It has a light emission control means (light emission control function in MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140) that controls light emission of the light emitting unit.
As the design, the first design (for example, the "6" design) displayed by emitting the light supplied from the light emitting unit in the first state from the first light emitting unit, and the second state. Including the second pattern (for example, "7" pattern) displayed by emitting the light supplied from the light emitting unit from the second light emitting unit.
The light emission control means has a supply stop means for stopping the supply of light by the light emitting unit when switching from the first state to the second state.
The drive control means uses at least a part of the period during which the supply of light is stopped by the supply stop means as the drive period for driving the drive unit when switching from the first state to the second state. A gaming machine characterized by being configured to play.

According to the feature C1, when switching from the first state to the second state, the light guide unit operates by utilizing the light supply stop period (light-off period) by the light emitting unit. With such a configuration, it is difficult for the player to understand the movement of the drive unit, and it is possible to make it appear as if the patterns displayed at the predetermined display positions are suddenly replaced. With such a novel display, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of the degree of attention to the game.

Feature C2. The supply stop means stops the supply of light by the light emitting unit before the light guide unit starts operation at the time of switching from the first state to the second state, or at the same time as the operation of the light guide unit starts. The gaming machine according to feature C1, characterized in that it has a means for making the machine move.

According to the feature C2, when the pattern displayed at the predetermined display position is replaced, the movement of the light guide unit becomes less noticeable. Thereby, the effect shown in the feature C1 can be suitably exhibited.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is described as "The drive control means sets the drive unit of the drive unit after the supply of light is stopped by the supply stop means at the time of switching from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to feature C1, which is characterized by having a means for starting. "

Feature C3. The supply stopping means is characterized by having a means for stopping the supply of light by the light emitting unit after the light guide unit starts operation at the time of switching from the first state to the second state. Features The gaming machine according to C1.

According to the feature C3, when the moving pattern suddenly disappears and the display of the pattern is resumed, it can be made to appear as if it is replaced with another pattern. By providing such a change for the eyes, it is possible to suitably suppress the monotonicization of the pattern display.

Feature C4. The light emission control means is characterized in that it has a means for restarting the supply of the light after the operation of the light guide unit is stopped at the time of switching from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to any one of the features C3.

When the supply of light is started after the replacement of the light emitting unit is completed, a different pattern (replaced pattern) suddenly appears at a predetermined display position, so that the visual impact can be enhanced.

Feature C5. The waiting period from when the operation of the light guide unit is stopped until the light supply is restarted is shorter than the operation period in which the light guide unit operates when switching from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to the feature C4, which is characterized by being.

As shown in the feature C4, in the configuration in which the light supply is restarted after the operation of the light guide unit is stopped, the waiting period until the restart is long, so that the symbol to be displayed next is visually specified by the player. The possibility increases. This is because the outer shape of the light emitting portion can be specified when the light emitting portion is irradiated with ambient light such as a game hall and the eyes are carefully squinted. Therefore, as shown in this feature, the occurrence of such inconvenience can be suppressed by shortening the waiting period when the patterns are replaced.

Feature C6. The light emission control means has a means for starting the supply of the light prior to the switching to the second state when the light guide unit is switched from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature C1 to the feature C3.

For example, in the case of frame-by-frame display of a pattern at a predetermined display position, if the operation speed (for example, scroll speed or fluctuation speed) of the light guide unit is increased, the display period of the pattern at the predetermined display position is shortened. .. This may make it difficult to visually identify the pattern. Therefore, as shown in this feature, such inconvenience can be suppressed by adopting a configuration in which the light supply is preceded. This is preferable in order to increase the operating speed of the light guide unit and improve the responsiveness such as switching of patterns.

Feature C7. The drive control means
A first control means for operating the light guide unit at a first speed to switch from the first state to the second state,
It has a second control means for switching from the first state to the second state by operating the light guide unit at a second speed faster than the first speed.
The light emission control means is a means for starting the supply of the light prior to the switching to the second state when the second control means switches from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature C1 to the feature C3, which is characterized by having.

For example, in the case of frame-by-frame display of a pattern at a predetermined display position, if the operation speed (for example, scroll speed or fluctuation speed) of the light guide unit is increased, the display period of the pattern at the predetermined display position is shortened. .. This may make it difficult to visually identify the pattern. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the light guide unit operates at the latter of the relatively slow first speed and the relatively fast second speed, the light supply restart is preceded. , Such inconvenience can be suppressed.

Feature C8. A first period and a second period shorter than the first period are provided as a stop display period for displaying the pattern at the predetermined display position.
The light emission control means switches to the second state when the second period is set as the stop display period of the pattern in the second state at the time of switching from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine according to any one of the features C1 to C3, characterized in that the means for starting the supply of the light is provided prior to the above.

When the stop display period of a pattern at a predetermined display position is shortened, it becomes difficult to visually identify the pattern. Therefore, in such a case (when a relatively short second period is set), the above-mentioned inconvenience is caused by the configuration in which the light supply is restarted prior to the switching to the second state. It can be suitably suppressed.

Feature C9. When the drive control means switches from the first state to the second state and the light supply by the light emission control means is stopped, the light guide unit is in the process of switching. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature C1 to the feature C8, which is characterized in that the machine is not stopped halfway.

When the pattern shown in the feature C1 or the like is replaced, there is a concern that the impact will be reduced because the process can be visually identified. In particular, even when the light emitting portion is made transparent to make it difficult to see, the light emitting portion can be specified when the light emitting portion is stopped. Therefore, when switching from the first state to the second state, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suitably suppressed by configuring the light guide unit so as not to stop in the middle of the process.

Feature C10. Any of the features C1 to C9, wherein the light emission control means has a supply continuation means for continuing the supply of light by the light emitting unit when switching from the first state to the second state. The gaming machine described in one.

By using the configuration shown in the feature C10 and the configuration shown in the feature C1 etc. together, that is, by using the configuration showing the process of switching the pattern and the configuration not showing the process, the impact when the displayed pattern is suddenly replaced can be obtained. Can be strengthened.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to B to the features C1 to C10 described in detail above.

<Characteristic D group>
The following feature D group is described in "Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that displays a variable pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, it is provided in a gaming area. When the game ball passes through the operating opening, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a specific game state advantageous to the player such as a hit state is generated, and a variable display of the pattern is started. In the case of winning, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-074175). "In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the degree of attention to games." The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Feature D1. A gaming machine provided with a pattern display means (variable display unit 500) for variably displaying a pattern based on the establishment of predetermined start conditions (winning of operating ports 83a and 83b).
The pattern display means is
A rotatably held base body (base body 524) and
A plurality of light guide plates (light guide panels 555 to 557) having transparency and arranged side by side in the rotation direction of the base body, and
It is provided with a light emitting unit (side light 528) that supplies light to the end surface of the light guide plate that faces the direction intersecting the rotation direction.
The light guide plate is a gaming machine characterized in that the light guide plates are mounted on the base body in a non-fixed state.

By configuring the pattern display means (specifically, the light guide unit) with a plurality of light guide plates arranged side by side in the rotation direction as shown in the feature D1, the shape of the pattern display means can be made substantially annular, for example. .. With such a configuration, as compared with the case where one light guide plate is formed in an annular shape, for example, it is possible to contribute to facilitation of manufacturing of the pattern display means and reduction of manufacturing cost. Here, when a plurality of light guide plates arranged side by side are connected to each other, distortion due to manufacturing variation or the like may occur. In a configuration in which light is supplied to the end face of the light guide plate, there is a concern that the pattern display function may not be exhibited well due to the variation in the positional relationship between the light emitting portion and the end face due to the influence of such distortion. In this respect, as shown in this feature, by mounting the plurality of light guide bodies on the base body in a non-fixed state, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience can be suppressed. This is preferable in order to suppress the deterioration of the appearance when the pattern is variably displayed using the light guide plate and to improve the attention of the player.

Feature D2. The light guide plate is fixed to the base body at an intermediate portion of the light guide plate in the rotation direction, and both end portions in the rotation direction are free ends. The gaming machine described in.

When a plurality of light guide plates are combined to form one light guide unit as shown in the feature D1, the appearance of the light guide unit is deteriorated because the boundary portion between the light guide plates is conspicuous. This is not preferable in order to improve the attention of the player. Further, in the configuration in which the light guide plate is fixed to the base body as shown in the feature D1, the fixed portion of the light guide plate to the base body may be different in appearance from the non-fixed portion. Here, in the configuration shown in this feature, the ends on both sides in the rotation direction of each light guide body are free ends, and the fixed portion is kept away from the boundary portion between the light guide bodies. As a result, it is possible to prevent the line of sight from being guided to the boundary portion when a fixed portion is entered in the player's field of view, and the appearance is deteriorated due to the formation of one light guide unit by combining a plurality of light guide bodies. Can be suppressed.

Feature D3. The plurality of light guide plates adjacent to each other in the rotation direction are arranged such that the end faces of the light guide plates facing the rotation direction face each other with a gap thereof. Feature The gaming machine described in D2.

As shown in the feature D3, by arranging the adjacent light guide plates so that the end faces in the rotation direction face each other with a gap between them, it is possible to prevent the light guide plates from coming into contact with each other due to a manufacturing error of the light guide plates or the like. .. This is preferable in order to suppress the occurrence of the distortion and the like shown in the feature D1.

Further, it is advantageous that the light guide plates are arranged so as not to be doubled inside and outside in order to suppress an increase in the weight of the unit and to suppress a decrease in responsiveness when operating the pattern display means.

Feature D4. The light emitting unit is configured to irradiate light in a predetermined direction.
The gaming machine according to any one of the features D1 to D3, wherein the end faces on both sides of the light guide plate in the rotation direction extend in the predetermined direction.

When the light guide unit is composed of a plurality of light guide plates as shown in the feature D1 and the like, it is preferable to make the boundary portion of the light guide bodies as inconspicuous as possible. Here, as shown in this feature, by aligning the irradiation direction of the light with the extending direction of the boundary portion (end face), it is possible to suppress the emission of the boundary portion. This is preferable in order to improve the appearance of the pattern display means.

Feature D5. The pattern display means displays the pattern by emitting light from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit formed on the light guide plate, and emits the light in the rotation direction of the base body. It is configured so that the arranged area and the non-arranged area of the portion alternate.
The boundary portion between the light guide plates is located in the non-dispersed region.
The light emitting portion is configured to irradiate light in the direction of the rotation center axis of the base body.
The gaming machine according to any one of the features D1 to D4, wherein the end faces on both sides of the light guide plate in the rotation direction extend in the rotation center axis direction.

When the light guide unit is composed of a plurality of light guide plates as shown in the feature D1 and the like, it is preferable to make the boundary portion of the light guide bodies as inconspicuous as possible. Here, as shown in this feature, by aligning the irradiation direction of the light with the extending direction of the boundary portion (end face), it is possible to suppress the emission of the boundary portion. This is preferable in order to improve the appearance of the pattern display means.

Further, the boundary portion is located in the non-arranged region (blank region) of the pattern, but since this boundary portion extends in the direction of the rotation center axis, the non-arranged region of the pattern is considered in consideration of the boundary portion. It is possible to prevent it from becoming excessively large.

Feature D6. The pattern display means displays the pattern by emitting light from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit formed on the light guide plate, and emits the light in the rotation direction of the base body. It is configured so that the arranged area and the non-arranged area of the portion alternate.
The gaming machine according to any one of the features D1 to D5, wherein the boundary portion between the light guide plates is located in the non-dispersed region.

As shown in the feature D6, if the boundary portion between the light guide plates is located in the non-arranged region (blank region) of the pattern, the boundary portion may be conspicuous due to light leaking from the boundary portion or the light may be transmitted. It is possible to suppress a decrease in supply efficiency.

Feature D7. The light guide plates are all formed so as to form a curved surface having the same thickness, and the outer surface of the light guide plates forms an annular one virtual surface centered on the rotation center axis of the base body. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature D1 to the feature D6, characterized in that the above-mentioned is formed.

According to the feature D7, it is possible to replace the light guide body to which the light is supplied according to the rotation position of the light guide unit, and it is possible to suppress the complication of the structure of the pattern display means.

Feature D8. Features D1 to the feature D1 to feature D1 to the end faces of the light guide plate facing the rotation center direction of the base body and to which the light from the light emitting portion is supplied are located on the same plane. The gaming machine according to any one of the features D7.

According to the feature D8, it is possible to suppress the difference in the distance relationship between the light emitting portion and the end face (light irradiation point) for each light guide body, and to contribute to the improvement of the light supply efficiency.

Feature D9. The pattern display means stops and displays a pattern at a predetermined display position (effective lines L1 to L5) based on the lottery result by the lottery means (lottery function in MPU 602 of the main control device 162).
The feature D1 characterized in that the number of light emitting portions formed in each of the plurality of light guide plates is configured to be larger than the upper limit of the number of patterns displayed at the predetermined display position. The gaming machine according to any one of the features D8.

If the number of light guides (number of divisions) is excessively large, the chance that the boundary portion of the light guides stops at the predetermined display position increases. It is feared that this will be a factor that deteriorates the appearance of the pattern display means. Therefore, as shown in this feature, if the number of divisions is specified so that the number of patterns arranged on each light guide body is larger than the upper limit number of patterns stopped at a predetermined display position, the boundary portion can be set. It is possible to reduce the chance of stopping at a predetermined display position. As a result, the harmful effects of using a plurality of light guides in combination can be alleviated.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to C to the features D1 to D9 described in detail above.

<Characteristic E group>
The following feature group E is described as follows: "Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines are equipped with a pattern display device that variablely displays a pattern on a display screen. In this type of gaming machine, for example, it is provided in a gaming area. When the game ball passes through the operating opening, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a specific game state advantageous to the player such as a hit state is generated, and a variable display of the pattern is started. In the case of winning, a specific pattern combination or the like is finally stopped and displayed on the display screen, and the gaming state shifts to the specific gaming state (for example, Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-074175). "In recent years, various measures have been taken to increase the degree of attention to games. However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration of gaming machines in order to increase the degree of attention to games." The invention was made with the problem to be solved.

Features E1. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
The first special to acquire the first special information (for example, the holding information related to the upper operating port 83a) when the ball enters the first starting ball entry portion (for example, the upper operating port 83a) provided in the game area. Information acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing based on entry into the upper operating port 83a by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) and
A first acquisition information storage means (RAM 604 holding area Ra for the upper working port) capable of storing the first special information acquired by the first special information acquisition means.
The first lottery means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162 to the upper operating port 83a) sequentially performs the first lottery process (lottery such as a big hit) based on the first special information stored in the first acquisition information storage means. Function to execute lottery processing based on the entry of balls) and
Second special information for acquiring second special information (holding information relating to the lower operating port 83b) when a ball enters the second starting ball entry portion (for example, the lower operating port 83b) provided in the game area. Acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing based on entry into the lower operating port 83b by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) and
A second acquisition information storage means (reservation area Rb for the lower working port of RAM 604) capable of storing the second special information acquired by the second special information acquisition means, and
The second lottery means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162 to the lower operating port 83b) sequentially performs the second lottery process (lottery such as a big hit) based on the second special information stored in the second acquisition information storage means. Function to execute lottery processing based on the entry of balls) and
It has a first display unit (for example, a rotating body 525Z of the first display unit) and a second display unit (for example, a rotating body 725Z of the second display unit), and each of the first display unit and the second display unit has a pattern. A pattern display means (variable display unit 500Z) capable of variable display and
When the first lottery process is performed by the first lottery means, the first display control means (for example, the main control device 162) displays a pattern corresponding to the result of the first lottery process on the first display unit. A function to execute the game rotation control process related to the upper operating port 83a in the MPU 602) and
When the second lottery process is performed by the second lottery means, the second display control means (for example, the main control device 162) displays a pattern corresponding to the result of the second lottery process on the second display unit. The MPU 602 is equipped with a function to execute the game rotation control process related to the lower operating port 83b).
A gaming machine characterized in that the first display unit has transparency and the second display unit can be visually recognized through the first display unit.

According to the feature E1, the result of the lottery based on the entry into the first starting ball entry section is displayed on the first display section, and the result of the lottery based on the entry into the second starting entry section is the first. 2 Displayed on the display unit. In this way, by separately providing the first display unit for the first start ball entry unit and the second display unit for the second start ball entry unit, the player can enter any of the start ball entry units. It is possible to quickly grasp whether the game is progressing based on. However, when the display unit is provided for each starting ball entry unit in this way, there is a concern that the burden on the player may increase or the lottery result may be overlooked due to the scattered points of interest. In this regard, as shown in this feature, since the second display unit is configured to be visible through the first display unit, there are cases where the first display unit is focused and cases where the second display unit is focused. The amount of movement of the line of sight can be reduced with. Therefore, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned various inconveniences caused by providing individual indications for each starting ball entry portion to enhance the originality. As a result, the effect of improving the degree of attention to the game can be suitably enhanced.

Feature E2. The first display unit and the second display unit are arranged so that the display surface (outer surface) of the first display unit and the display surface (outer surface) of the second display unit are parallel to each other. The gaming machine according to the feature E1.

According to the feature E2, it is possible to suppress a large difference in visibility between the pattern display on the first display unit and the pattern display on the second display unit.

Feature E3. The first display control means has a means for variably displaying a pattern on the first display unit and then stopping and displaying a pattern combination corresponding to the lottery result by the first lottery means.
The second display control means has a means for variably displaying a pattern on the second display unit and then stopping and displaying a pattern combination corresponding to the lottery result by the second lottery means.
The variable display area when the pattern is variably displayed on the first display unit and the variable display area when the pattern is variably displayed on the second display unit are overlapped back and forth in the front view of the gaming machine. The gaming machine according to feature E1 or feature E2, characterized in that it is present.

As shown in this feature, if the variable display area of the pattern in the first display unit and the variable display area of the pattern in the second display unit overlap each other in the front-rear direction, the player is paying attention to one of the display units. When the variable display of the pattern is performed on the other display unit under the circumstances, the chance that the variable display is overlooked can be suitably reduced without making the effect flashy or giving an unnecessary accent.

Feature E4. The first display control means has a means for variably displaying a pattern on the first display unit and then stopping and displaying a pattern combination corresponding to the lottery result by the first lottery means on the first effective line.
The second display control means has a means for variably displaying a pattern on the second display unit and then stopping and displaying a pattern combination corresponding to the lottery result by the second lottery means on the second effective line.
The stop display area when the pattern combination is stopped and displayed on the first effective line and the stop display area when the pattern combination is stopped and displayed on the second effective line overlap each other back and forth in the front view of the gaming machine. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature E1 to the feature E3, which is characterized by being present.

As shown in this feature, by superimposing the stop display area where the pattern combination corresponding to the lottery result is stopped and displayed on the first display unit and the second display unit, which pattern combination corresponds to the current lottery result. It is possible to easily identify whether or not the product is used.

In the configuration in which the lottery result is notified by the combination of patterns stopped and displayed on the effective line, the effective line in the first display unit and the effective line in the second display unit overlap each other in the front and back of the gaming machine. It is also possible to do.

Feature E5. The gaming machine according to feature E3 or feature E4, wherein the pattern group displayed on the first display unit and the pattern group displayed on the second display unit are different in appearance.

As shown in the feature E3 and the feature E4, in the configuration in which the stop display area and the variable display area are overlapped in the front-rear direction, the pattern group displayed in each display unit is different in appearance, so that any display unit can be used. It is possible to improve the discriminating power as to whether or not the pattern is displayed.

In particular, as shown in feature E4, in the configuration in which the effective lines are aligned in the front-rear direction, the pattern in the first display unit and the pattern in the second display unit are mixed, so that, for example, each display unit can handle the disengagement result. It is possible to preferably prevent the pattern combination corresponding to the jackpot result from appearing as if it is stopped and displayed even though the pattern combination to be displayed is stopped and displayed.

Feature E6. As a display control mode of the first display unit and the second display unit by the first display control means and the second display control means, the first display unit variably displays a pattern, while the second display unit. It has a first control mode for restricting the variable display of the pattern in the above, and a second control mode for restricting the variable display of the pattern on the first display unit while the pattern is variably displayed on the second display unit.
The first control mode and the second control mode are characterized in that the pattern on the display unit subject to the regulation is hidden during the period when the variable display is regulated. The gaming machine according to any one of the features E1 to E5.

According to the feature E6, in the first control mode, the design on the second display unit is hidden, and in the second control mode, the design on the first display unit is hidden, so that the display on the first display unit can be obtained. It is possible to suitably suppress confusion with the display on the second display unit.

Feature E7. When the first display control means wins the lottery by the first lottery means during the second control mode, the pattern corresponding to the result of the winning is stopped at the first display unit. It has a first special display means to display,
When the second display control means wins the lottery by the second lottery means during the first control mode, the pattern corresponding to the winning result is stopped at the second display unit. The gaming machine according to feature E6, which comprises a second special display means for displaying.

In a configuration in which lottery by each lottery means is performed in parallel, there is a possibility that the lottery by the second lottery means may be won during the first control mode, or the lottery by the first lottery means may be won during the second control mode. There is. In such a case, it is possible to substitute a display unit other than the display unit on the winning side to notify the winning result, but this may cause confusion for the player. On the other hand, if the variable display of the pattern is performed in the process of displaying the lottery result, the variable display of the pattern is duplicated in both display units, and the information to be provided to the player becomes excessive. In this regard, as shown in this feature, when a lottery by the first lottery means is won during the second control mode, the pattern corresponding to the winning result is displayed in the stopped state on the first display unit. When a lottery by the second lottery means is won during the first control mode, the above-mentioned various inconveniences occur by setting the second display unit to display the pattern corresponding to the winning result in a stopped state. Can be suitably suppressed.

Feature E8. The first display unit is transparent and emits light to the first light guide unit (light guide unit 532Z) in which a plurality of light emission units are formed so as to be arranged in a predetermined direction, and the first light guide unit. It has a first light emitting unit (side light 528Z) to be supplied and a first driving unit (motor 526Z) for operating the first light guide unit in the predetermined direction, and light from the first light emitting unit is the first. 1 The pattern is displayed by being emitted from a light emitting portion formed in the light guide portion.
The first display control means has a drive control means (a drive control function in the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140) that drives and controls the drive unit, and the drive control means operates the first light guide unit. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature E1 to the feature E7, which is characterized in that the pattern is variablely displayed.

As shown in this feature, if the first display unit is composed of a movable first light guide unit, a light emitting unit, and a drive unit, the pattern on the first display unit can be switched between display and non-display as needed. can. As a result, coexistence with the second display unit located behind can be suitably realized.

Feature E9. The first light emitting unit is configured to irradiate light in a direction intersecting the parallel direction of the first display unit and the second display unit.
The gaming machine according to feature E8, wherein the light from the first light emitting unit is configured to be supplied to the end surface of the first light guide unit.

According to the feature E9, the light from the first light emitting unit is irradiated with light in a direction intersecting the parallel direction of the first display unit and the second display unit, and is supplied to the end face of the first light guide unit. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the pattern display from becoming difficult to understand due to the light from the first light emitting unit being irradiated to the second display unit side.

Feature E10. The first display control means has a light emission control means (light emission control function in the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140) for controlling light emission of the first light emitting unit.
When the second display control means is used to display a pattern on the second display unit, the light emission control means and the drive control means have the first light guide while keeping the first light emitting unit turned off. The gaming machine according to feature E8 or feature E9, which comprises a special control means for operating the unit.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, even if the first light guide unit is operated when the design is displayed on the second display unit, the design on the first display unit remains hidden. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused by the operation of the first light guide unit.

Feature E11. The gaming machine according to feature E10, wherein the special control means is configured to turn on the first light emitting unit after the operation of the first light guide unit is stopped.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, even when the pattern is displayed on the second display unit, the first light emitting unit is turned on after the first light guide unit is operated in the off state. Thereby, the lottery result related to the first starting ball entry portion can be notified. With such a configuration, it is possible to preferably prevent the pattern display on the second display unit from becoming difficult to understand in the process of notifying the lottery result.

Feature E12. The first light guide portion has an annular shape or a substantially annular shape, and is rotatably held around the central axis of the first light guide portion.
The gaming machine according to any one of the features E8 to E11, wherein the second display unit is arranged inside the first light guide unit.

As shown in this feature, if the first light guide portion is formed in an annular shape or an annular shape and is configured to rotate around the central axis thereof, the variable display function of the pattern in the first display portion is ensured. , The separation between the first display unit and the second display unit can be reduced.

Feature E13. The second display unit is transparent and has a second light guide unit (light guide unit 732Z) in which a plurality of light emission units are formed so as to be arranged in a predetermined direction, and light is directed to the second light guide unit. The second light emitting unit (side light 728Z) and the second driving unit (motor 726Z) for operating the second light guide unit in the predetermined direction are provided, and the light from the second light emitting unit is the light from the second light emitting unit. The pattern is displayed by being emitted from a light emitting portion formed in the second light guide portion.
The second light guide portion has an annular shape or a substantially annular shape, and is rotatably held around the central axis of the first light guide portion.
The second display control means has a drive control means (a drive control function in the MPU 652 of the notification / effect control device 140) that drives and controls the drive unit, and the drive control means operates the second light guide unit. By doing so, it is configured to display the pattern in a variable manner.
The first light emitting unit irradiates light in the central axis direction of the first light guide unit, and the second light emitting unit irradiates light in the central axis direction of the second light guide unit. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature E8 to the feature E12.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, the light from the first light emitting unit is the second light guide while the first display unit (first light guide unit) and the second display unit (second light guide unit) are close to each other. It is possible to suppress the supply to the unit and the light from the second light emitting unit to the first light guide unit.

Feature E14. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
The first special to acquire the first special information (for example, the holding information related to the upper operating port 83a) when the ball enters the first starting ball entry portion (for example, the upper operating port 83a) provided in the game area. Information acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing based on entry into the upper operating port 83a by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) and
A first acquisition information storage means (RAM 604 holding area Ra for the upper working port) capable of storing the first special information acquired by the first special information acquisition means.
The first lottery means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162 to the upper operating port 83a) sequentially performs the first lottery process (lottery such as a big hit) based on the first special information stored in the first acquisition information storage means. Function to execute lottery processing based on the entry of balls) and
Second special information for acquiring second special information (holding information relating to the lower operating port 83b) when a ball enters the second starting ball entry portion (for example, the lower operating port 83b) provided in the game area. Acquisition means (a function of executing information acquisition processing based on entry into the lower operating port 83b by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) and
A second acquisition information storage means (reservation area Rb for the lower working port of RAM 604) capable of storing the second special information acquired by the second special information acquisition means, and
The second lottery means (MPU 602 of the main control device 162 to the lower operating port 83b) sequentially performs the second lottery process (lottery such as a big hit) based on the second special information stored in the second acquisition information storage means. Function to execute lottery processing based on the entry of balls) and
It has a first display unit (for example, a first display unit) and a second display unit (for example, a second display unit), and a pattern display capable of variably displaying a pattern on each of the first display unit and the second display unit. Means (for example, variable display unit 500Z) and
The variable display of the pattern is started in the first display unit prior to the first lottery process being performed by the first lottery means or based on the first lottery process being performed by the first lottery means. The first special stored in the first acquisition information storage means is set to display the stop result corresponding to the result of the first lottery process and end the variable display of the pattern as one game. A first game turn control means (for example, a game turn control related to the upper operating port 83a by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) capable of controlling the picture display means so that the picture of each game turn is variably displayed according to the information. Function to execute processing) and
The variable display of the pattern is started in the second display unit prior to the second lottery process being performed by the second lottery means or based on the second lottery process being performed by the second lottery means. The second special stored in the second acquisition information storage means is set to display the stop result corresponding to the result of the second lottery process and end the variable display of the pattern as one game. A second game turn control means (for example, a game turn control related to the lower operating port 83b by the MPU 602 of the main control device 162) capable of controlling the picture display means so that the picture of each game turn is variably displayed according to the information. It has a function to execute processing) and
The first display unit and the second display unit are arranged side by side so that the first display unit is on the front side and the second display unit is on the back side, and the second display unit is the second display unit. 1 A gaming machine characterized in that it can be visually recognized from the front of the gaming machine through a display unit.

According to the feature E14, the result of the lottery based on the entry into the first starting ball entry section is displayed on the first display section, and the result of the lottery based on the entry into the second starting entry section is the first. 2 Displayed on the display unit. In this way, by separately providing the first display unit for the first start ball entry unit and the second display unit for the second start ball entry unit, the player can enter any of the start ball entry units. It is possible to quickly grasp whether the game is progressing based on. However, when the display unit is provided for each starting ball entry unit in this way, there is a concern that the burden on the player may increase or the lottery result may be overlooked due to the scattered points of interest. In this regard, as shown in this feature, since the second display unit is configured to be visible through the first display unit, there are cases where the first display unit is focused and cases where the second display unit is focused. The amount of movement of the line of sight can be reduced with. Therefore, it is possible to suitably suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned various inconveniences caused by providing individual indications for each starting ball entry portion to enhance the originality. As a result, the effect of improving the degree of attention to the game can be suitably enhanced.

It is also possible to apply each of the technical ideas shown in the above features E2 to E13 to the feature E14.

Further, it is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to D to the features E1 to E14 described in detail above.

<Characteristic F group>
The following feature F group is "some gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines are equipped with a gaming board in which a gaming area in which a gaming ball flows down is formed. When the ball is fired toward the game area and the fired game ball enters the ball entry portion provided in the game area, a privilege such as payout of the game ball is given to the player based on the ball. In a gaming machine in which the granting of benefits depends on the movement of the pachinko machine, by arranging gaming parts such as nails and windmills in the gaming area, the flow path of the gaming ball is dispersed and the movement of the gaming ball is diversified. Regarding the background technology that "there is something that raises the degree of attention to the movement of the game ball and, by extension, the degree of attention to the game (see, for example, Patent Document 1)", "However, the game is played by the movement of the game ball." There is still room for improvement in the structure of the pachinko machine in order to increase the degree of attention to the pachinko machine. "

Features F1. A game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and
A gaming machine equipped with a gaming device (gaming mechanism 800) provided at a position visible from the front of the gaming machine.
The gaming device has a rolling surface (stage portion 831) on which a game ball flowing down the gaming region can roll, and a movable portion (movable body 821) that can be displaced to the first and second positions. When the game ball is placed on the rolling surface, the movable portion is displaced from the first position to the second position, and when the game ball is detached from the rolling surface, the movable portion is placed in the second position. It is configured to be displaced from the first position to the first position.
A gaming machine characterized in that the period during which the gaming ball stays on the rolling surface is configured to differ depending on the rolling mode of the gaming ball.

According to the feature F1, when the game ball is placed on the rolling surface, the movable part is displaced from the first position to the second position, and when the game ball is separated from the rolling surface, the movable part is moved from the second position to the first position. Return to position. Here, there is a difference in the length of stay on the rolling surface depending on the rolling mode of the game ball on the rolling surface (for example, the rolling direction and rolling speed of the game ball). That is, the period during which the movable portion is located at the second position depends on the above-mentioned stay period. By suppressing the movement of the game apparatus from becoming monotonous in this way, it is possible to contribute to improving the degree of attention to the game.

In addition, the configuration shown in this feature is "a game board (game board unit 80) in which a game area (game area PE) is formed, and a game device (game mechanism 800) provided at a position visible from the front of the game machine. The gaming device comprises a rolling surface (stage portion 831) on which a gaming ball flowing down the gaming area can roll, and a movable surface that can be displaced to a first position and a second position. The movable portion has a portion (movable body 821), and when the game ball is placed on the rolling surface, the movable portion is displaced from the first position to the second position, and the gaming ball is separated from the rolling surface. In some cases, the movable portion is configured to be displaced from the second position to the first position. "

Feature F2. The stage portion on which the rolling surface is formed is held so as to be able to move up and down.
When the stage portion descends from the standby position to the descent position against the urging force, the movable portion is displaced from the first position to the second position, and the stage portion is displaced from the descent position to the standby position by the urging force. The gaming machine according to feature F1, wherein the movable portion is displaced from the second position to the first position by returning to.

According to the feature F2, the movable portion is displaced to the first position / the second position in conjunction with the ascending / descending operation of the stage portion on which the rolling surface is formed. Here, by moving the movement direction of the stage portion up and down, it is possible to suppress the change in the behavior of the game ball due to the movement of the stage portion. This is preferable in order to alleviate the bias of the waiting period in which the game ball waits on the rolling surface.

Feature F3. The gaming machine according to feature F2, wherein the stage portion is configured to move from the standby position to the descending position by the weight of the gaming ball resting on the rolling surface.

As shown in this feature, if the weight of the game ball located on the rolling surface is used, for example, a sensor that detects the game ball on the rolling surface and a movable part based on the detection result of the sensor. There is no need for an electrical configuration such as a displacement actuator. Therefore, it is possible to improve the degree of attention to the game and suppress the complication of the configuration caused by it. This is preferable in order to promote the use of the configuration shown in the feature F1 and the like.

Features F4. The gaming device has a link portion (link member 840) that connects the stage portion and the movable portion and is rotatably held at an intermediate position between the stage portion and the movable portion, and is described in the vertical direction. The gaming machine according to feature F3, wherein the stage portion and the movable portion are configured to be displaced alternately.

In the configuration in which the stage portion is raised and lowered by using the weight of the game ball as shown in the feature F3, the driving force depends on the weight of the game ball. As shown in this feature, the stage portion is arranged on one end side of the rotatably held link portion, and the movable portion is arranged on the other end side, and the movements of the stage portion and the movable portion are staggered up and down. By forming so as to be, it is possible to reduce the transmission loss of the output. This is preferable in order to increase the certainty of the operation of the gaming device on the premise that the driving force is small.

Feature F5. The gaming machine according to feature F4, wherein the rotation center portion of the link portion is arranged so as to be biased toward the movable portion side of the stage portion and the movable portion.

If the rotation center portion is closer to the movable portion as shown in this feature, the weight of the movable portion that can be tolerated for displacing the movable portion by utilizing the weight of the game ball can be increased. This is preferable in increasing the degree of freedom in designing the gaming device.

Feature F6. The gaming machine according to any one of the features F3 to F5, wherein the stage portion is formed so that a plurality of gaming balls can roll on the rolling surface at the same time.

In the configuration in which the weight of the game ball is used as the power to displace the movable portion as described above, the displacement speed (responsiveness) can be changed depending on the number of game balls that can be located on the rolling surface. If the responsiveness changes according to the number of game balls in this way, it is possible to contribute to further diversification of the period during which the movable portion is maintained in the second position.

Feature F7. The rolling surface is formed with an outlet portion (central opening 832) that is open upward and through which a game ball can pass.
A discharge passage (discharge passage 833) through which the game ball passing through the outlet portion passes is formed in the stage portion.
The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F3 to the feature F6, wherein the discharge passage extends in the vertical direction from the outlet portion and is a vertical passage.

In the configuration in which the discharge passage is formed in the stage portion, as shown in this feature, by making the discharge passage a vertical passage, the stage portion is in a standby position by being pushed by a game ball passing through the discharge passage. It is possible to avoid delaying the return to. This can contribute to the improvement of responsiveness when the movable portion is displaced to the first position / the second position.

Feature F8. The rolling surface is formed with an outlet portion (central opening 832) that is open upward and through which a game ball can pass.
The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F3 to the feature F7, wherein the exit portion has a size that a plurality of gaming balls cannot pass at the same time.

According to the feature F8, when a plurality of game balls roll on the rolling surface, the game balls are sequentially detached from the rolling surface, and it is avoided to detach at once. Therefore, the period during which the movable portion waits at the second position (for example, the action period) can be diversified according to the number of game balls located on the rolling surface.

Features F9. One of the feature F1 to the feature F8, wherein the movement path of the gaming ball on the rolling surface includes a plurality of moving paths having different lengths of stay of the gaming ball on the rolling surface. The gaming machine described in one.

According to the configuration shown in this feature, the staying period of the game ball on the rolling surface differs depending on which movement path the game ball that has reached the rolling surface passes through. With such a configuration, the player can estimate the length of stay to some extent by paying attention to the movement route of the game ball. As described above, it is preferable to enable the player to make a slight guess in order to improve the degree of attention to the game.

Feature F10. The gaming machine according to feature F9, wherein the rolling surface is formed so that the gaming ball can move from one of the plurality of moving paths to the other moving path. ..

By allowing the game ball to move between the movement routes, it is possible to easily realize further diversification of the stay period.

Features F11. A guide unit (communication passage 88bD) for guiding the game ball to the rolling surface is provided, and the guide unit is characterized by having a plurality of flow paths having different moving speeds of the game ball moving to the rolling surface. The gaming machine according to any one of the feature F2 to the feature F10.

As shown in this feature, if the moving speed of the game ball when moving to the rolling surface is different, the difference in the staying period of the game ball on the rolling surface can be increased.

It is also possible to apply the technical idea shown in this feature to feature F1.

Feature F12. The stage portion on which the rolling surface is formed is the first stage portion.
The gaming device has a second stage portion (stage portion 811) provided with a plurality of entry portions including a predetermined entry portion (entrance entrance 812, 813), and the movable portion is in the second position. The feature F2 to the feature F11 is configured so that the ball is more difficult to enter the predetermined ball entry portion than the state arranged in the first position. The gaming machine described in any one.

According to the feature F12, since the movable part is arranged in the second position, it becomes difficult to enter the predetermined ball entry part, but this period depends on the period during which the game ball stays on the rolling surface. Will be done. By diversifying the period during which it becomes difficult to enter the predetermined ball entry portion in this way, it is preferable for the player to pay attention to the movement of the game ball on the first stage portion and the second stage portion. Can be prompted.

Feature F13. The first stage portion is configured to move from the standby position to the descent position depending on the weight of the game ball resting on the rolling surface.
The gaming device has a link portion (link member 840) that connects the first stage portion and the movable portion and is rotatably held at an intermediate position between the first stage portion and the movable portion. The first stage portion and the movable portion are configured to be displaced alternately in the direction.
The movable portion has a stage surface forming portion (upper surfaces 823a, 824a of the columnar portions 823, 824) that form a part of the stage surface of the second stage portion in a state of being arranged at the second position.
The gaming machine according to feature F12, wherein the stage surface forming portion is formed so that the area of the stage surface forming portion is smaller than the area of the rolling surface in the first stage portion.

In the configuration in which the weight of the game ball is used to lower the first stage portion and the movable portion is raised in conjunction with the lowering, the movable portion is placed on the movable portion (stage surface forming portion). Will sink downwards. This is preferable for diversifying the movements of the gaming device, but there is concern that the fatigue of the player paying attention to the gaming device will increase in a configuration in which such movements occur frequently and the state changes finely. To. Therefore, as shown in this feature, the area of the stage surface forming portion is made smaller than the area of the rolling surface of the first stage portion, and the number of game balls on the stage surface forming portion is the number of game balls on the rolling surface. By reducing the chances of exceeding the number of the above-mentioned small changes in the state, it is possible to realize a practically preferable configuration.

Feature F14. The first stage portion is configured to move from the standby position to the descent position depending on the weight of the game ball resting on the rolling surface.
The gaming device has a link portion (link member 840) that connects the first stage portion and the movable portion and is rotatably held at an intermediate position between the first stage portion and the movable portion. The first stage portion and the movable portion are configured to be displaced alternately in the direction.
The movable portion is a passage forming portion (upper surfaces 823a, 824a of the columnar portions 823, 824) that forms the bottom of the passage through which the game ball that has flowed into the predetermined entry portion passes in the state of being arranged at the first position. ), And the movable portion is arranged at the second position so that the passage forming portion is configured to protrude upward from the predetermined ball entry portion. The gaming machine according to F12 or feature F13.

As shown in this feature, the passage forming portion of the movable portion forms a passage (bottom portion) for discharge in the second stage portion, and the passage forming portion is configured to protrude upward from the predetermined ball entry portion. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the game ball heading for the predetermined entry portion from being placed on the movable portion. As a result, it is possible to preferably avoid shortening the period in which it is difficult for the game ball that has reached the second stage to enter the predetermined ball entry portion.

It is also possible to apply the technical ideas shown in the features A to E to the features F1 to F14 described in detail above.

Any one of the technical ideas shown in each of the above-mentioned features may be applied to other features, or the technical ideas shown in a plurality of features may be combined and applied to other features. It is also possible to extract a part of the configuration shown in each feature and apply it to other features.

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

Pachinko gaming machine: An operating means operated by a player (game ball launching handle 41), a gaming ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operating means (game ball launching mechanism 110), and the firing thereof. A ball passage (guidance rail 100) that guides a game ball to a predetermined game area and each game part (nails, etc.) arranged in the game area are provided, and a predetermined passage portion (general winning opening) of each of these game parts is provided. A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a gaming ball passes through (81, etc.).

Revolving gaming machine such as a slot machine: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a variable display of a symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols and then displays the final stop display of the symbol sequence, and the symbol variation starts due to the operation of the starting operation means. This is a special game that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the stop operation means or after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A gaming machine that generates a state (bonus game, etc.).

Ball-using belt-type gaming machine: Equipped with a variable display means that displays a variable display of a symbol sequence consisting of a plurality of symbols and then displays the final stop display of the symbol sequence. A special gaming state (bonus) that is advantageous to the player on the condition that the fluctuation of the symbol is stopped due to the operation of the operation means or the predetermined time elapses and the final stop symbol at the time of the stop is a specific symbol. A throwing device that is provided with a ball tray to generate a game, etc., and is provided with a throwing device that takes in a game ball from the ball tray and a payout device that pays out the game ball to the ball tray. A gaming machine configured so that the operation of the starting operation means becomes effective when the gaming ball is thrown in.

10 ... Pachinko machine as a game machine, 80 ... Game board unit, 80a ... Game board, 83a ... Upper operating port, 83b ... Lower operating port, 85 ... Central opening, 140 ... Notification / effect control device, 162 ... Main control device , 500 ... Variable display unit, 523 ... Drum unit, 524 ... Base body, 525 ... Rotating body, 526 ... Motor, 528 ... Side light, 259 ... Background display device, 513 ... Frame, 532 ... Light guide unit, 535 ... Hub, 536 ... rim, 542 ... connecting part, 551 ... outer surface part, 552 ... inner surface part 552 ... light emitting part, 554 ... end face, 555 to 557 ... light guide panel, 561 ... insertion part, 571 ... light emitting substrate, 572 ... light emitting Body, 582 ... Backlight, 800 ... Game mechanism, 810 ... Distribution unit, 811 ... Stage part, 812 ... 1st entrance, 813 ... 2nd entrance, 814 ... 3rd entrance, 821 ... Movable Body, 823-824 ... columnar part, 830 ... stage unit, 831 ... stage part, 834 ... stopper, 840 ... link, BP1 ... boundary part, CL ... rotation center axis, PE ... game area.

Claims (7)

It is a gaming machine equipped with a pattern display means that variably displays a pattern as the game progresses.
The pattern display means is
A light guide unit that forms an annular or substantially annular shape centered on a predetermined central axis, is rotatably provided around the predetermined central axis, and is arranged so that a part of the outer peripheral surface faces the front of the gaming machine. When,
The light guide portion has a light emitting unit that supplies light to an end face facing the same direction as the predetermined central axis.
A plurality of light emitting portions are provided on the outer peripheral surface so as to be arranged in the rotation direction of the light guide portion.
The light guide unit is configured to display the pattern by emitting light supplied from the light emitting unit from the light emitting unit to the outside of the light emitting unit.
A gaming machine characterized in that, by rotating the light guide portion around a predetermined central axis, a supply point to which light is supplied from the light emitting portion is changed on the end surface of the light guide portion. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the supply location is changed, the light emitting unit to be emitted light is switched among the plurality of light emitting units. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light guide portion has an annular shape, and the end surface thereof is located on a plane orthogonal to the predetermined central axis. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the light emitting unit is configured so that the irradiation direction of light is the same as the predetermined central axis. A rotating body is composed of the light guide portion and a frame to which the light guide portion is fixed.
The end portion on the side where the end face is formed in the light guide portion extends laterally from the frame.
An insertion portion through which the end portion of the light guide portion is inserted is provided.
The gaming machine according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the light emitting portion is arranged at a portion of the insertion portion facing the end face. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the pattern display means has a base body that rotatably holds the rotating body, and the insertion portion is provided in the base body. The gaming machine according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the insertion portion faces the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface of the light guide portion with a gap.

Images