JP7437799B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, in gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines, game balls supplied from a supply mechanism are fired by a firing mechanism, and when the game balls flowing down the gaming area enter the winning hole, the prize balls are paid out. (For example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-57751

By the way, in a gaming machine that circulates game balls internally, it is necessary to store the number of game balls as data. In such a gaming machine, if the number of game balls stored as data and the game situation become inconsistent, there is a risk that the reliability of the data regarding the number of game balls may decrease.

A game machine that solves the above problems includes a firing mechanism that performs a firing operation of firing game balls, a supply mechanism that performs a supplying operation of supplying game balls to the firing mechanism, and a supply mechanism that supplies game balls from the supply mechanism to the firing mechanism. The control means includes a supply detection means for detecting game balls, a control means for performing predetermined control, and a storage means for storing the number of game balls as data, and the control means controls the supply operation by the supply mechanism, It is possible to perform firing control that causes the firing mechanism to perform at least the firing operation, and also to set a subtraction permission state during the firing control, and to set the game ball to a subtraction permission state during the subtraction permission state. is detected, and the number of game balls stored as the data is subtracted, while the supply detection means detects a game ball when the subtraction permission state is not in progress. The gist is that the number of game balls stored as the data is not subtracted, and that the subtraction permission state can be set over a specific period.

Regarding the above game machine, the length of time during which the subtraction permission state is set is determined depending on whether the firing control is performed once or when the firing control is performed a second time following the firing control once. It may also be possible to have different times.

The gaming machine may include an error detection means for detecting an error, and the control means may not execute the firing control when a specific error is detected by the error detection means.

According to the present invention, the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

It is a diagram when the pachinko game machine and the card unit are viewed from the front. It is a diagram showing a game board. It is a figure showing a counting switch, a counting lamp, and a game ball number display device. It is a diagram showing a recovery path for game balls. It is a figure showing a supply device. It is a figure showing a supply device. It is a figure showing a launcher. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. 3 is a timing chart showing an example of the flow of launch control. It is a flowchart which shows counting switch press processing. It is a flowchart which shows pitch number transfer processing. It is a flow chart which shows supply subtraction processing. It is a flowchart which shows specific period elapsed processing. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired. It is a timing chart showing an example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when game balls are fired.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below. In this specification, the terms top, bottom, left, right, front (front), and back (back) refer to each direction when viewed from the player.
As shown in FIG. 1, in the island facility (gaming island), pachinko gaming machines 10, which are an example of gaming machines, and card units 100, which are an example of a management device, are installed so as to be alternately lined up. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is also provided with the card unit 100. The card unit 100 is communicably connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10.

The card unit 100 will be explained.
The card unit 100 includes a card insertion section 101 into which a management card, which is an example of a storage medium, is inserted. The management card can at least store as data the remaining amount of cash and the number of game balls held by the player (hereinafter referred to as the number of balls held P1) as an example of the value that enables the game. In this embodiment, the number of pitches P1 owned is 0 or a positive integer (natural number). The management card may be capable of storing personal information of the player as data. The management card may be configured to store a prepaid balance (prepaid balance) instead of the cash balance.

The card unit 100 includes a bill insertion section 102 into which bills as an example of cash can be inserted. In the card unit 100, when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion section 102, the banknote is added to the remaining amount stored in the inserted management card or the initialized management card. The card unit 100 may be configured to allow coins to be inserted as an example of cash.

Card unit 100 includes an operation panel 104. The operation panel 104 includes a ball lending button 104a, a payout button 104b, a return button 104c, a ball number display section 104d, and a remaining amount display section 104e. The ball lending button 104a is operated when increasing the number of game balls P2 (the number of game balls corresponding to the balls held by the player) managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 based on the remaining amount stored in the management card. . In this embodiment, the number of game balls P2 is 0 or a positive integer. A player can play a game with a number of game balls corresponding to the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10. Although details will be described later, the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 increases or decreases as the game progresses.

The payout button 104b is operated to increase the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 based on the number of balls P1 held stored in the management card. The return button 104c is operated when the management card inserted into the card unit 100 is returned. The pitch number display section 104d displays information (for example, Arabic numerals) that can specify the number P1 of owned pitches stored in the management card. Information (for example, Arabic numerals) that can specify the remaining amount stored in the management card is displayed on the remaining amount display section 104e.

Note that when the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 becomes zero, the player cannot continue the game even if the number of balls P1 held remains on the management card. In other words, the player cannot continue the game unless he increases the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 to a number of 1 or more. The number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 can be increased by operating the ball lending button 104a and lending a predetermined number of game balls. Further, the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 can be increased by operating the payout button 104b and paying out to the pachinko game machine 10 up to the number of held balls P1 stored in the management card. .

The card unit 100 includes a card unit control board 105 (hereinafter referred to as a CU control board). The CU control board 105 includes a CU control CPU 105a, a CU control ROM 105b, and a CU control RAM 105c. The CU control CPU 105a performs predetermined processing by executing a card unit control program. The CU control ROM 105b stores a card unit control program. The CU control RAM 105c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the card unit 100. For example, the information stored in the CU control RAM 105c includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The card unit 100 includes a communication terminal 105d that is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 so as to be able to communicate in both directions.

The CU control board 105 is connected to the card insertion section 101. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to rewrite the storage contents of the management card inserted into the card insertion section 101. The CU control board 105 is connected to the banknote insertion section 102. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a banknote signal that is output when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion section 102. The banknote signal is a signal that can specify the amount of banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion section 102 (hereinafter referred to as the cash input amount).

The CU control board 105 is connected to the operation panel 104. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a ball lending signal that is output when the ball lending button 104a is operated. The CU control board 105 is configured to be able to input a payout signal that is output when the payout button 104b is operated. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to input a return signal that is output when the return button 104c is operated. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to control the display content of the pitch count display section 104d. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to control the display content of the remaining amount display section 104e.

The CU control board 105 is connected to the pachinko gaming machine 10 via a communication terminal 105d. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to input various control signals (control information) output from the pachinko gaming machine 10. The CU control CPU 105a is configured to be able to output various control signals (control information) to the pachinko gaming machine 10. The card unit 100 outputs a connection signal to the pachinko game machine 10 from the communication terminal 105d. Note that the connection signal may be a command or a message generated by the CU control board 105 (CU control CPU 105a), or may be a signal generated by an output circuit (for example, a power supply circuit) different from the CU control CPU 105a.

Card unit 100 includes an external communication terminal (not shown) for connection to external equipment. As an example, the external device is a hall computer 110 installed in a game hall. The external device is a management computer that can communicate via a network with server equipment installed in a data center outside the game center. In this case, it is preferable that the management computer and the card unit 100 are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

The processing performed by the card unit 100 will be explained.
When the management card is inserted into the card insertion section 101, the CU control CPU 105a reads the remaining amount and the number of balls P1 stored in the management card, and stores them in the CU control RAM 105c. Then, when the management card is inserted, the CU control CPU 105a performs the processing described below.

When the CU control CPU 105a receives a banknote signal from the banknote insertion section 102, it adds the inserted cash amount, which can be determined from the banknote signal, to the remaining amount. When the remaining amount is not 0 and a ball lending signal is input from the ball lending button 104a, the CU control CPU 105a subtracts the remaining amount by a specified amount and specifies the provision of the number of game balls corresponding to the specified amount. A signal is output to the pachinko game machine 10. Note that when the remaining amount is 0, the CU control CPU 105a does not transmit the grant signal even if the ball lending signal is input.

When the number of held balls P1 is 0 or more, when a payout signal is input from the payout button 104b, the CU control CPU 105a subtracts the number of held balls P1 by a specified number, and specifies the provision of the specified number of game balls. A signal is output to the pachinko game machine 10. Note that when the number of held balls P1 is 0, the CU control CPU 105a does not transmit a grant signal even if a payout signal is input. In this way, the application signal can specify the number of balls to be applied.

When the CU control CPU 105a receives a transfer signal from the pachinko game machine 10, it adds the number of game balls that can be specified from the transfer signal to the number of held balls P1. As will be described in detail later, the transfer signal is a control signal transmitted from the pachinko gaming machine 10, and is capable of specifying the number of gaming balls whose management is to be transferred to the card unit 100. When the player transfers the management to the card unit 100, the player ends the game on the pachinko game machine 10, or the game continues but, for example, when the number of game balls P2 managed on the pachinko game machine 10 is There may be cases where the number of cards is too large and it is desired to transfer part of the management to the card unit 100.

The CU control CPU 105a controls the number of pitches display section 104d and updates the display contents so as to display information that allows identification of the number of pitches P1 held at any given time. That is, the CU control CPU 105a displays the number of pitches P1 held on the pitch count display section 104d in real time. The display content of the pitch number display section 104d can be changed when the number of pitches P1 in possession is subtracted by a payout signal, or when the number of pitches P1 in possession is added upon receiving a transfer signal. The CU control CPU 105a controls the remaining amount display section 104e and updates the display contents so as to display information that allows identification of the current remaining amount. That is, the CU control CPU 105a displays the remaining amount in real time on the remaining amount display section 104e.

When the CU control CPU 105a inputs a return signal from the return button 104c, the CU control CPU 105a stores the remaining amount and the number of owned balls P1 stored in the CU control RAM 105c in the management card, and also stores the remaining amount and the number of owned balls stored in the CU control RAM 105c. Initialize P1. The CU control CPU 105a controls the card insertion section 101 so that the management card is ejected from the card insertion section 101.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko game machine 10 is an enclosed type game machine in which a prescribed number of game balls are sealed inside the machine. The pachinko game machine 10 is an example of a circulation type game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine. The pachinko game machine 10 does not include a storage section for storing game balls. The pachinko game machine 10 has a structure in which, in principle, players cannot touch the game balls.

The pachinko game machine 10 electromagnetically manages the number of game balls P2 based on the number of rental balls P3, the number of acquired balls P4, the number of fired balls P5, and the number of foul balls P6. In this embodiment, the number of pitches lent P3, the number of acquired pitches P4, the number of fired pitches P5, and the number of foul pitches P6 are all 0 or a positive integer.

The number of rental balls P3 is the number of game balls lent to the player. The number of acquired balls P4 is the number of game balls acquired by the player. The number of shot balls P5 is the number of game balls shot by the player. The number of fired balls P5 can also be said to be the number of game balls supplied from the supply section 44 to the firing section 51, which will be described later. The number of foul balls P6 is the number of game balls that did not reach the game area 20a, which will be described later, among the game balls fired by the player. The number of foul balls P6 can also be said to be the number of game balls that did not reach the game area 20a among the game balls fired from the firing section 51 toward the game area 20a. A foul ball is a so-called "returned ball." In this way, the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment can store the number of game balls as data. The number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 corresponds to the number of game balls stored as data.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a frame 11. The frame 11 includes an outer frame 11a for fixing the machine to the island equipment, a mounting frame 11b for mounting various game components, and a protection frame 11c. The mounting frame 11b is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the outer frame 11a. The protection frame 11c is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the mounting frame 11b. The protection frame 11c has a protection glass (not shown) that protects the game components mounted on the mounting frame 11b. The protective frame 11c is a so-called front frame or a glass frame. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a locking device 11d that locks the mounting frame 11b and the protection frame 11c. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is configured such that the mounting frame 11b and the protection frame 11c cannot be opened with respect to the outer frame 11a unless the locking device 11d is unlocked using a key compatible with the locking device 11d.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect audio device 12, an example of which is a speaker. The performance audio device 12 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The performance audio device 12 can perform a performance that outputs a predetermined sound (hereinafter referred to as audio performance) and a notification that outputs a predetermined sound (hereinafter referred to as audio notification). For example, the predetermined sounds include music, sound effects, and the like. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a notification audio device 13, an example of which is a speaker. The notification audio device 13 can perform audio notification. As an example, the production audio device 12 and the notification audio device 13 are arranged in the mounting frame 11b.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect light emitting device 14. The effect light emitting device 14 is capable of performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as a light emitting effect) by lighting, blinking, and extinguishing a light emitting body (not shown) such as an LED. The effect light emitting device 14 is capable of providing notification (hereinafter referred to as light emission notification) by lighting, blinking, and extinguishing the light emitting body. As an example, the effect light emitting device 14 is arranged on the mounting frame 11b. The effect light emitting device 14 may be provided on a game board 20, which will be described later.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a firing handle 15 that can be operated to fire game balls. The firing handle 15 is arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b. The pachinko game machine 10 is configured to shoot out game balls with a shooting intensity that corresponds to the operation of the shooting handle 15. The firing handle 15 includes a handle lever 15a that can be rotated, a touch sensor D01 (see FIG. 8), a firing stop switch D02 (see FIG. 8), and a handle volume D03 (see FIG. 8).

The touch sensor D01 is connected to a current-carrying ring 15b arranged so as to surround the side surface of the firing handle 15. The touch sensor D01 outputs a touch signal when the player grasps the firing handle 15 and the player's fingers touch the energizing ring 15b. The touch signal is in an on state when the player's finger is touching the energizing ring 15b, and is in an off state when the player's finger is not touching it. The firing stop switch D02 outputs a stop signal when the firing stop button 15c protruding from the side of the firing handle 15 is pressed. The stop signal is in an on state when the firing stop button 15c is operated, and is in an off state when it is not operated. When the handle lever 15a is rotated, the handle volume D03 outputs a volume signal with a voltage corresponding to the amount of rotation operation.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a game ball number display device 17 that displays information that allows the number of game balls P2 to be specified. As an example, the game ball number display device 17 has a configuration in which a plurality (for example, six) of 7 segments are lined up, and is capable of displaying a plurality of (for example, six digits) numbers. The game ball number display device 17 can execute a predetermined notification by displaying predetermined characters and numbers.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a counting switch 18. The counting switch 18 can be operated by the player. In this embodiment, the counting switch 18 corresponds to specific operation means. The counting switch 18 is used when ending the game on the pachinko game machine 10, or when the game continues but, for example, the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko game machine 10 has become too large, and a part of the game ball number P2 is turned on. It is operated when you want to transfer the management of The counting switch 18 outputs a counting signal when pressed. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a counting lamp 18a that indicates whether or not counting is allowed. As an example, the game ball number display device 17, the counting switch 18, and the counting lamp 18a are arranged on the front side of the mounting frame 11b.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a game board 20. The game board 20 is assembled to the mounting frame 11b. On the front surface of the game board 20, a generally circular game area 20a is defined when viewed from the front. A display window 20b is formed approximately in the center of the gaming area 20a. A launch passage 20c is formed on the left side of the game area 20a to guide a game ball fired by operating the firing handle 15 to the game area 20a.

The game board 20 includes a main display device 21 that displays various information. The main display device 21 includes a first special symbol display device 21a, a second special symbol display device 21b, a first reservation display device 21c, a second reservation display device 21d, a normal symbol display device 21e, and a normal reservation display device 21f. . As an example, the plurality of display devices constituting the main display device 21 are arranged together in a part that is visible to the player, but the present invention is not limited to this, and some or all of them may be arranged in different parts. good.

The first special symbol display device 21a is capable of executing a first special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally the special symbol is stopped and displayed. The second special symbol display device 21b is capable of executing a second special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally the special symbol is stopped and displayed. The special symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (special symbol winning lottery). Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game will be collectively referred to as the "special game." The special symbols include a jackpot symbol and a losing symbol. The special symbols may include small winning symbols. In the pachinko game machine 10, when a jackpot is won in a special symbol winning lottery, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in a special game, and after the special game of the jackpot ends, a jackpot game is awarded. The jackpot game will be described later.

The first suspension display device 21c indicates the number of times the execution of the first special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the first suspension number) because the suspension condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. Display identifiable information. The second suspension display device 21d indicates the number of times the execution of the second special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the second suspension number) because the suspension condition has been satisfied but the start condition has not yet been satisfied. Display identifiable information.

The normal symbol display device 21e is capable of executing a normal game in which predetermined symbols are displayed variably and finally the normal symbols are stopped and displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for informing the result of the internal lottery (normal symbol winning lottery). The normal symbols include normal winning symbols and normal losing symbols. In the pachinko game machine 10, when a winning lottery of a normal symbol is won, the normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the end of the normal game. The normal hold display device 21f displays information that can specify the number of times the normal game is held on hold because the hold condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. The main display device 21 may include a right-handed display device that displays information instructing right-handed batting, and a round display device that notifies the upper limit number of round games.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect display device 19. The effect display device 19 has an image display area 19a that can display images. The effect display device 19 is assembled to the game board 20 so that the image display area 19a can be viewed through the display window 20b. For example, the effect display device 19 is a liquid crystal device. The effect display device 19 can perform an effect that displays a predetermined image (hereinafter referred to as a display effect) and a notification that displays a predetermined image (hereinafter referred to as a display notification). For example, the predetermined images are images of performance designs, characters, scenery, characters (character strings), numbers, symbols, and the like.

The effect audio device 12, the effect light emitting device 14, and the effect display device 19 are all effect devices capable of executing a predetermined effect, and constitute a group ES of effect devices including a plurality of effect devices. The production devices (notification devices) included in the production device group ES are not limited to the production audio device 12, the production light emitting device 14, and the production display device 19, but may have a configuration in which some of these production devices are omitted. There may be. In addition to these performance devices, or instead of one or more performance devices that can be arbitrarily selected, the performance device group ES may include a performance movable device that performs a movable performance, and a performance vibration that performs a vibration performance. A device may also be provided.

For example, the display performance on the performance display device 19 includes a performance symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as a performance game) using a plurality of rows of performance symbols (decorative symbols). In the production game, a plurality of rows of production symbols are variably displayed, and finally a combination of production symbols (hereinafter referred to as a symbol combination) is displayed in a static manner. The effect pattern (ornamental pattern) is a pattern decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and is a pattern for diversifying display effects. The performance game is started with the special game and ended with the special game. In the production game, symbol combinations corresponding to the special symbols that are stopped and displayed in the special game are stopped and displayed. When jackpot symbols are stopped and displayed in the special game, jackpot symbol combinations are stopped and displayed in the production game. When the winning symbols are stopped and displayed in the special game, the winning symbol combinations are stopped and displayed in the performance game. In the following description, the special game and the performance game executed together with the special game are collectively referred to as a "variable game."

The game board 20 is formed with a plurality of winning holes into which game balls can enter. A plurality of winning holes are opened in the gaming area 20a. The plurality of winning holes include a first starting hole 23, a second starting hole 24, a big winning hole 25, and a normal winning hole 27. The plurality of winning holes may include a winning hole different from these winning holes.

The first starting opening 23 is a winning opening into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the awarding condition for the prize ball and the suspension condition for the first special game. As an example, the first starting port 23 is located below the effect display device 19. The first starting port 23 is always opened so that game balls can enter the ball. The game board 20 includes a first starting sensor D11 that detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 23 (see FIG. 9).

The second starting opening 24 is a winning opening into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the holding conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second starting port 24 is located to the right of the first starting port 23. The second starting port 24 includes a normal opening/closing piece 24a having a door shape, for example. The second starting port 24 is closed so that a game ball cannot enter the ball or it is difficult to enter the ball when a normal winning game is not provided. When a normal winning game is awarded, the second starting port 24 is opened so that a game ball can enter the ball or can easily enter the ball. The game board 20 includes a normal solenoid SL1 as a means for opening the second starting port 24 (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a second starting sensor D12 that detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 24 (see FIG. 9). The normal opening/closing piece 24a is a so-called "normal electric accessory".

The big winning hole 25 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball. As an example, the big prize opening 25 is located at the lower right of the effect display device 19. The big prize opening 25 includes a special opening/closing piece 25a having a door shape, for example. When a jackpot game is not awarded, the jackpot 25 is closed so that a game ball cannot enter the ball or it is difficult to enter the ball. When a jackpot game is awarded, the big prize opening 25 is opened so that a game ball can be entered or it can be easily entered. The game board 20 includes a special solenoid SL2 as a means for opening the big prize opening 25 (see FIG. 9). Furthermore, the game board 20 includes a count sensor D13 that detects game balls that have entered the big prize opening 25 (see FIG. 9). The special opening/closing piece 25a is a so-called "special electric accessory."

The normal winning hole 27 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball. As an example, the normal winning openings 27 are located at the lower left of the effect display device 19 and at the lower right of the effect display device 19, respectively. The normal winning hole 27 is always opened so that game balls can be entered. The game board 20 includes a normal sensor D14 that detects a game ball that has entered the normal winning hole 27 (see FIG. 9).

The game board 20 includes a gate 28. As an example, the gate 28 is located above the second starting opening 24 and the big winning opening 25. A gate opening 28a is formed in the gate 28. The gate opening 28a is always opened so that game balls can enter therein. The gate 28 includes a gate sensor D15 that detects a game ball that has entered the gate opening 28a (see FIG. 9). The gate 28 is a ball entrance into which a game ball enters in order to satisfy the starting conditions for a normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate 28, the conditions for awarding a prize ball are not satisfied.

An out port 29 is formed in the game board 20. A game ball launched into the game area 20a enters an out port 29 when the ball does not enter any of the plurality of winning ports. The plurality of winning ports and out ports 29 can be understood as discharge ports for discharging game balls from the gaming area 20a, or collection ports for collecting gaming balls from the gaming area 20a. The game ball is ejected from the game board 20 when it enters the winning hole or the out hole 29. Hereinafter, the game ball ejected from the game board 20 through the winning opening or the out opening 29 may be referred to as an out ball.

The player adjusts the firing strength of the game ball by operating the firing handle 15, and shoots the game ball into a left area to the left of the display window 20b and a right area to the right of the display window 20b. Is possible. For example, when a game ball is fired by adjusting the firing strength to be strong (hereinafter referred to as right-handed hitting), the game ball is likely to be guided to the right area, the second starting opening 24, the big winning opening 25, and the normal winning opening. There is a possibility that the ball will enter the mouth 27 or the gate 28. In right-handed hitting, since it is necessary to fire the game ball vigorously in order to reach the right area, the firing strength is adjusted to the maximum strength or slightly weaker than the maximum strength. On the other hand, when the game ball is fired by adjusting the firing strength to be weak (hereinafter referred to as left-handed hitting), the game ball is easily guided to the left area and goes to the first starting port 23 or the normal winning port 27. There is a possibility that the ball will come in. When hitting to the left, it is not necessary to fire the game ball as vigorously as when hitting to the right, so the intensity is adjusted to such an extent that the fired game ball does not reach the right area. In this embodiment, a flow path for the game ball is formed by a game component such as a game nail so that the game ball cannot enter the first starting port 23 when the game ball is hit to the right. The game component may be arranged so as to restrict the ball from entering the first starting port 23 when the ball is hit to the right, or it may be difficult for the ball to enter the first starting port 23 when the ball is hit to the left. It may be arranged as follows.

The left area in this embodiment is an area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the game area 20a into left and right halves when the game board 20 is viewed from the front. The right area in this embodiment is an area located on the right side of the center line CL when the game board 20 is viewed from the front. A game ball fired by operating the firing handle 15 is guided to a launch passage 20c on the left side of the game area 20a, and reaches the game area 20a. Therefore, the left region is also a region closer to the punching passage 20c, and the right region is also a region away from the punching passage 20c. The game ball guided down the left area passes to the left of the effect display device 19 located at the center of the game area 20a in front view, and heads toward the out port 29 located at the lowest part of the game area 20a. On the other hand, the game ball guided down the right area passes to the right of the performance display device 19 located in the center of the game area 20a in front view and heads toward the out port 29.

As shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a collection path 30 for collecting game balls discharged from the game board 20 after being launched into the game area 20a and used for the game, and a lifting mechanism 36. have The pachinko game machine 10 also includes a supply device 40 that feeds game balls so as to cut them out one by one, and a firing device 50 that fires the game balls supplied from the supply device 40. The lifting mechanism 36 transfers the game balls collected through the recovery passage 30 to the supply device 40 located downstream and above the lifting mechanism 36. The supply device 40 corresponds to a supply mechanism that performs a supply operation of supplying game balls to the firing device 50. The firing device 50 corresponds to a firing mechanism that performs a firing operation to fire a game ball. The pachinko game machine 10 has the above-mentioned launch passage 20c and a foul passage 20f for collecting foul balls. As an example, the supply device 40, the launch device 50, and the lifting mechanism 36 are arranged below the game area 20a. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the supply device 40 and the firing device 50 may be arranged in the upper left part of the game area 20a.

The collection passage 30 includes a winning passage 31 where game balls that have won into the first starting opening 23, the second starting opening 24, the big winning opening 25, and the normal winning opening 27 are merged and collected, and the game balls that have passed through the out opening 29 are collected. It has a non-winning passage 32 for collecting balls. The winning path 31 and the non-winning path 32 merge at a first merging section 33a. Further, the recovery passage 30 and the foul passage 20f merge at the second merging portion 33b. The recovery passage 30 has a specific passage 34 that connects the second merging section 33b and the lifting mechanism 36. The game ball that has reached the game area 20a flows down the game area 20a. When a game ball enters any of the first starting port 23, second starting port 24, big winning port 25, normal winning port 27, and out port 29, it circulates through the winning path 31 or the non-winning path 32. After merging at the first merging portion 33a, they pass through the specific passage 34 and reach the lifting mechanism 36. The exit area of the specific passage 34 is large enough to allow one game ball to pass through. Therefore, the game balls are lined up in a line by passing through the specific passage 34.

The supply device 40 and the firing device 50 are adjacent to each other so as to be lined up in a predetermined direction (for example, the front-back direction). Details of the supply device 40 and the firing device 50 will be described later. The game balls supplied one by one from the supply device 40 flow into the firing device 50. The launching passage 20c connects the firing device 50 and the gaming area 20a. The launch passage 20c is formed on the front side of the game board 20 so as to extend in the vertical direction along the left edge of the game area 20a. The game ball fired by the firing device 50 passes through the launch passage 20c and is guided to the game area 20a.

The foul passage 20f is a passage that connects an intermediate part of the ejection passage 20c and any part of the recovery passage 30. The game balls flowing into the foul passage 20f from the launch passage 20c are returned to the recovery passage 30, and are again supplied to the supply device 40 from the specific passage 34. The game ball fired by the firing device 50 flows into the launch passage 20c and is guided to reach the game area 20a. Here, due to insufficient firing strength by the firing device 50, the ball may stall and flow backward (fall) through the launching path 20c without reaching the game area 20a.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a foul sensor D21 that detects a game ball (foul ball) passing through the foul passage 20f. The foul sensor D21 is provided upstream of the second merging section 33b of the collection passage 30 and adjacent to the foul passage 20f. The foul sensor D21 outputs a foul signal when detecting a game ball passing through the foul passage 20f. The foul signal is turned on when a game ball passing through the foul passage 20f is detected, and turned off when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a winning path count sensor D25 that detects game balls passing through the winning path 31. The winning passage count sensor D25 is provided upstream of the first merging section 33a of the collection passage 30 and adjacent to the winning passage 31. When the winning path count sensor D25 detects a game ball passing through the winning path 31, it outputs a winning path signal. The winning path signal is in an on state when a game ball passing through the winning path 31 is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a non-winning path count sensor D26 that detects game balls passing through the non-winning path 32. The non-winning path count sensor D26 is provided upstream of the first merging portion 33a of the collection path 30 and adjacent to the non-winning path 32. When the non-winning path count sensor D26 detects a game ball passing through the non-winning path 32, it outputs a non-winning path signal. The non-winning path signal is turned on when a game ball passing through the non-winning path 32 is detected, and turned off when it is not detected.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an out sensor D30 that detects game balls passing through the first merging section 33a of the collection path 30. The out sensor D30 is provided adjacent to the recovery passage 30 between the first merging part 33a and the second merging part 33b of the recovery passage 30. When the out sensor D30 detects a game ball passing through the collection path 30, it outputs an out signal. The out signal is in an on state when a game ball passing through the collection path 30 is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected. The game ball detected by the out sensor D30 is a game ball that has passed through either the winning path 31 or the non-winning path 32.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a lifting entrance sensor D28 that detects the game balls that have passed through the specific passage 34 and reached the lifting mechanism 36, and a lifting entrance sensor D28 that detects the game balls that have passed through the lifting mechanism 36 and is transferred. An exit sensor D29 is provided. The lifting entrance sensor D28 is provided adjacent to the passageway connected to the entrance of the lifting mechanism 36. The lifting exit sensor D29 is provided adjacent to the passage leading to the exit of the lifting mechanism 36. When the lifting entrance sensor D28 detects a game ball, it outputs a lifting entrance signal. The lifting entrance signal is in an on state when a game ball is detected, and is in an off state when a game ball is not detected. When the lifting exit sensor D29 detects a game ball, it outputs a lifting exit signal. The lifting exit signal is in an on state when a game ball is detected, and is in an off state when a game ball is not detected.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a discharge port (not shown) for discharging game balls from the machine from a specific passageway 34, an opening/closing piece (not shown) for opening and closing the discharge port, and an opening/closing piece (not shown) for opening/closing the opening/closing piece. An opening/closing lever (not shown) that is operated by the user. In this embodiment, the discharge port can be opened by operating the opening/closing lever and displacing the opening/closing piece, and the game ball can be discharged from the opening to the outside of the machine. Note that when the opening/closing lever is not operated, the discharge port is closed by the opening/closing piece.

The supply device 40 will be explained.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the supply device 40 includes a receiving section 41 for receiving the game balls discharged from the exit of the lifting mechanism 36, and a receiving section 41 for cutting out the game balls received in the receiving section 41 one by one. It has a movable piece 42 that operates, a supply solenoid 43 that drives the movable piece 42, and a supply section 44 that guides the cut out game ball to the firing device 50. The supply device 40 includes a supply inlet sensor D22 and a supply outlet sensor D23.

The receiving portion 41 is formed with a receiving passage 41a through which game balls ejected from the exit of the lifting mechanism 36 can proceed in a line. The supply section 44 is formed with a supply passage 44a through which game balls cut out from the row of game balls K are advanced to the firing device 50 by the movable piece 42. The movable piece 42 is arranged at the boundary between the receiving passage 41a and the supply passage 44a.

The movable piece 42 has a holding portion 42a that can hold (accommodate) one game ball K, and a rotation shaft 42b. The movable piece 42 is an example of a locking portion that can lock a game ball. The movable piece 42 is supported so as to be movable about a rotation axis 42b between a stop position 42P1 and a supply position 42P2 rotated downward from the stop position 42P1. The stop position 42P1 is a position that allows the game balls K to flow into the holding part 42a from the receiving passage 41a and restricts the outflow of the game balls K from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a. The supply position 42P2 is a position that restricts the inflow of game balls K from the receiving passage 41a to the holding part 42a and allows the outflow of the game balls K from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a.

When the movable piece 42 is displaced from the stop position 42P1 to the supply position 42P2, the game ball K in the receiving passage 41a is stopped by the movable piece 42, while the game ball K held in the holding part 42a is released into the supply passage 44a. . When the movable piece 42 is displaced from the supply position 42P2 to the stop position 42P1, the game balls K in the receiving passage 41a flow into the holding part 42a, but the game balls K do not flow out from the holding part 42a to the supply passage 44a. The supply solenoid 43 is turned on by being energized, and the movable piece 42 is displaced to the stop position 42P1. The movable piece 42 is held at the stop position 42P1 because the supply solenoid 43 is in the on state. On the other hand, the supply solenoid 43 is turned off by de-energization, and the movable piece 42 is displaced by gravity to the supply position 42P2. The movable piece 42 is held at the supply position 42P2 because the supply solenoid 43 is in the OFF state. The supply solenoid 43 is an example of a supply actuator that is driven to release the locking by the movable piece 42 and supply the game ball to the firing device 50.

The supply entrance sensor D22 is provided adjacent to the receiving passage 41a, and outputs a supply entrance signal when it detects a game ball K passing through the receiving passage 41a. The supply entrance signal is in an on state when a game ball K passing through the receiving passage 41a is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected. The supply outlet sensor D23 is provided adjacent to the supply passage 44a, and outputs a supply outlet signal when it detects the game ball K passing through the supply passage 44a. The supply exit signal is in an on state when a game ball K passing through the supply passage 44a is detected, and is in an off state when it is not detected. The supply outlet sensor D23 corresponds to supply detection means for detecting game balls supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50.

The launcher 50 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 7, the firing device 50 is disposed below the game board 20 when viewed from the front. The firing device 50 includes a firing section 51 that receives the game ball K supplied from the supply device 40, a firing hammer 52 that shoots out the game ball K in the firing section 51, and drives the firing hammer 52 to hit the game ball. It has a firing solenoid 53. The firing device 50 includes a receiving section 55 that receives foul balls flowing backward (falling) from the launching passage 20c, and a foul passage section 56 that forms a foul passage 20f.

A firing position 51a for holding a game ball K is formed in the firing section 51. The game ball K flows down the supply passage 44a and is held at the firing position 51a. The firing hammer 52 has a rotation shaft 52a at its base end and a ball-striking portion 52b at its distal end. The firing hammer 52 is movable around the rotation axis 52a between a ball hitting position 52P1 where the game ball K is hit by the ball hitting portion 52b and a retracted position 52P2 rotated downward from the ball hitting position 52P1. Supported. The firing hammer 52 is an example of a hitting section that hits the game ball.

The firing solenoid 53 is turned on by being energized, and the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1. As shown by arrow Y1, when the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1, the ball hitting portion 52b hits the game ball K at the firing position 51a, and the game ball K is fired toward the hitting path 20c. The game ball K fired with sufficient strength passes through the launch passage 20c and reaches the game area 20a. When the firing solenoid 53 is de-energized, the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the retracted position 52P2 due to gravity. The firing hammer 52 is held at the retracted position 52P2 by the firing solenoid 53 being in the OFF state. The firing solenoid 53 is an example of a firing actuator that drives the firing hammer 52 to hit the game ball. The firing actuator may be a motor.

The receiving portion 55 forms a receiving space 55a that opens below the punching passage 20c. A lower end portion of the receiving portion 55 is connected to a passage member forming the foul passage 20f. That is, the lower end of the receiving space 55a is connected to the foul passage 20f. As shown by arrows Y2 and Y3, the foul ball flows from the launch passage 20c into the receiving space 55a, passes through the foul passage 20f, and is returned to the supply device 40. Further, as described above, the foul sensor D21 is provided adjacent to the foul passage 20f.

Next, the jackpot game will be explained.
In the jackpot game, first, a predetermined performance is performed over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as opening time). For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that allows the start of a jackpot game to be recognized. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the jackpot 25 is opened is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a number condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter the ball or a time condition in which a predetermined upper limit time elapses is satisfied. In the round game, the big prize opening 25 is opened in a predetermined opening manner (opening pattern). In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, a predetermined performance is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as ending time). For example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that makes it possible to recognize the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game is ended as the ending time elapses.

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a probability variation function (hereinafter referred to as probability variation function).
The probability variation function is a function for varying the probability of winning a jackpot (hereinafter referred to as jackpot probability) in the special symbol winning lottery. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a low probability state in which the variable probability function does not operate, and a high probability state in which the variable probability function operates, as states in which the jackpot probability may differ. A high probability state has a higher jackpot probability than a low probability state. In a high probability state, the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in a low probability state, which is an extremely advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is a so-called "probability variable state (probability variable state)."

The pachinko game machine 10 is equipped with a ball entry assist function.
The ball entry assist function is a function for varying the rate of ball entry into the second starting port 24. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 has two states in which the rate of balls entering the second starting port 24 may be different: a low ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function does not operate, and a high ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function operates. and. In the high ball entry rate state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting port 24 is higher than in the low ball entering rate state, and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting port 24. Therefore, the player becomes in an advantageous state (a state in which it is easy to enter the ball). The high ball entry rate state is a so-called "electric support state", and the low ball entry rate state is a so-called "non-electric support state".

For example, the high ball entry rate state can be achieved by performing one control arbitrarily selected from among the three controls described below, or by performing a combination of a plurality of controls. The first control is normal symbol fluctuation time shortening control that shortens the fluctuation time of the normal game compared to the low ball entry rate state. The second control is normal symbol probability variation control that changes the probability of winning a normal winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than when the ball entry rate is low. The third control is an open time extension control that makes the total open time of the second starting port 24 in one normal winning game longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The opening time extension control is a control for increasing the number of openings of the second starting port 24 in one normal winning game than in a low ball entry rate state, and a control for opening the second starting port 24 once in a normal winning game. It is preferable that at least one of the controls is such that the time is made longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The high ball entry rate state may be realized by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that makes the special game fluctuation time (for example, average fluctuation time) shorter than that in the low ball entry rate state. When performing special symbol fluctuation time shortening control, a high ball entry rate state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time shortening state (time saving state), and a low ball entry rate state becomes a special symbol non fluctuating time shortening state (non time saving state). ).

The gaming state is defined by a combination of whether or not the probability change function is activated and whether or not the ball entering assist function is activated. In the following explanation, a game state that is a low probability state and a low ball entry rate state will be referred to as a "low probability low ball entry rate state", and a gaming state that is a high probability state and a low ball entry rate state will be referred to as a "high probability low ball entry rate state". "Bitch rate status". In addition, a game state with a low probability state and a high ball entry rate state is referred to as a "low probability high ball entry rate state", and a gaming state where a high probability state and a high ball entry rate state is a state is referred to as a "high probability high ball entry rate state". ”.

The electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 8, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a plurality of control boards. The plurality of control boards include a main control board 60, a production control board 70, a frame control board 80, and a launch control board 90. The plurality of control boards are provided in positions that cannot be accessed or visually recognized unless the locking device 11d is unlocked and the mounting frame 11b is opened.

The main control board 60 and the production control board 70 are connected so that control information (control commands, etc.) can be outputted in one direction from the main control board 60 to the production control board 70. The main control board 60 executes predetermined processing and outputs control information to the production control board 70. The production control board 70 executes predetermined processing based on control information input from the main control board 60. The main control board 60 and the frame control board 80 are connected so that they can output control information (telegrams, etc.) in both directions. The frame control board 80 and the launch control board 90 are connected so that they can output control information in both directions. The frame control board 80 of the pachinko game machine 10 and the CU control board 105 of the card unit 100 can bidirectionally output control information (telegrams, etc.) via the connection terminal board 98 provided in the pachinko game machine 10. are connected so that

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a power supply unit 99 on the back side of the machine. The power supply unit 99 receives power from outside the machine, converts the input voltage into a predetermined voltage, and supplies the voltage to the production control board 70 and the frame control board 80. The power supplied to the frame control board 80 is further supplied to the main control board 60 and the launch control board 90. The power supply unit 99 supplies power to the supply solenoid 43, firing solenoid 53, various sensors, and switches. The power supply unit 99 includes a main switch 99a. The pachinko game machine 10 can be powered on by starting power supply to the power supply unit 99 with the main switch 99a turned on, or by turning the main switch 99a on while power is being supplied. It is composed of

The main control board 60 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 9, the main control board 60 includes a main CPU 61, a main ROM 62, a main RAM 63, and a random number generation circuit 64. The main CPU 61 executes processing related to the progress of the game by executing the main control program. The main ROM 62 stores a main control program, judgment values used for various judgments and lottery, tables, and the like. The main ROM 62 stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern is information that can specify the fluctuation content (performance content) of the performance game performed during the execution of the special game. The fluctuation patterns include a jackpot fluctuation pattern and a loss fluctuation pattern. The performance game based on the jackpot variation pattern has a variation content in which the jackpot symbol combination is finally displayed in a stopped state. The performance game based on the losing variation pattern has a variable content in which ultimately the winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed.

The main RAM 63 stores various information that is rewritten according to the processing results of the main CPU 61. For example, the information stored in the main RAM 63 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The random number generation circuit 64 generates hardware random numbers. The main control board 60 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the main CPU 61.

The main control board 60 is connected to a first starting sensor D11, a second starting sensor D12, a count sensor D13, a normal sensor D14, and a gate sensor D15. The main CPU 61 can input detection signals output by each sensor detecting a game ball. The main control board 60 is connected to the main display device 21. The main CPU 61 can control the display content of the main display device 21. The main control board 60 is connected to the normal solenoid SL1 and the special solenoid SL2. The main CPU 61 can control the opening mode of the second starting port 24 by controlling the operation of the normal solenoid SL1. The main CPU 61 can control the opening mode of the big prize opening 25 by controlling the operation of the special solenoid SL2.

The production control board 70 will be explained.
The performance control board 70 includes a performance CPU 71, a performance ROM 72, and a performance RAM 73. The effect CPU 71 performs processing related to the effect by executing a sub-control program. The performance ROM 72 stores a sub-control program, a determination value used for a predetermined lottery, and the like. The performance ROM 72 stores display performance data used for display performance, light emission performance data used for light emission performance, and audio performance data used for audio performance. The performance RAM 73 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the production RAM 73 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The performance control board 70 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the performance CPU 71. The performance control board 70 may include a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

The effect control board 70 is connected to the effect display device 19. The effect CPU 71 can control the display content in the image display area 19a of the effect display device 19. The performance control board 70 is connected to the performance audio device 12. The performance CPU 71 can control the output content of the performance audio device 12. The effect control board 70 is connected to the effect light emitting device 14. The effect CPU 71 can control the light emission mode of the effect light emitting device 14.

The frame control board 80 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 8, the frame control board 80 includes a frame CPU 81, a frame ROM 82, a frame RAM 83, a performance display monitor 84, a ball removal switch 85, an error release switch 86, a game ball clear switch 87, a RAM clear switch 88, and a backup power source. 89, a backup circuit 89a, and a launch permission circuit 89b. The frame CPU 81 performs processing related to the operation of the components mounted on the mounting frame 11b by executing a frame control program. The frame CPU 81 corresponds to a control means that performs predetermined control. The frame ROM 82 stores a frame control program and the like. The frame RAM 83 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the frame RAM 83 includes a flag, a counter, a timer, and the number of game balls P2. In this embodiment, the frame RAM 83 that stores the number of game balls P2 corresponds to a storage means that stores the number of game balls as data.

The performance display monitor 84 displays the base value. The base value is a value indicating the ratio (ratio) of the total number of prize balls during the normal game to the total number of valid balls during the normal game. A normal game is a game in which the probability of entering a ball is low and a jackpot game is not being played. The effective ball is a game ball that has reached the game area 20a among the game balls fired from the firing device 50. The base value is calculated based on the calculation formula: "Total number of prize balls acquired during normal gaming ÷ Total number of valid balls during normal gaming x 100" on the premise that a jackpot game is not in progress.

The ball removal switch 85 is a switch that is operated to create a ball removal state that allows game balls sealed inside the pachinko game machine 10 to be ejected to the outside of the machine. The ball removal switch 85 outputs a ball removal signal when a push-in operation is performed. The ball removal signal is turned on when the ball removal switch 85 is pressed, and turned off when the ball removal switch 85 is not pressed. The ball removal signal is output to the frame CPU 81. In addition, in this embodiment, the bulb removal state can be caused for a predetermined period of time after the power is turned on. In other words, the operation of the bulb removal switch 85 is valid for a predetermined period of time after the power is turned on, and is invalidated for any other time than the predetermined period of time after the power is turned on.

The error release switch 86 is a switch that is operated when a predetermined error occurs and the error state is released after the cause of the error is removed. The error release switch 86 outputs an error release signal when pressed. The error release signal is turned on when the error release switch 86 is pressed, and turned off when the error release switch 86 is not pressed. The error release signal is output to the frame CPU 81.

The game ball clear switch 87 is a switch operated when initializing to 0 information (hereinafter referred to as game ball number information) that can specify the number of game balls P2 stored in the frame RAM 83. The game ball clear switch 87 outputs a game ball clear signal when pressed. The game ball clear signal is turned on when the game ball clear switch 87 is pressed, and turned off when the game ball clear switch 87 is not pressed. The game ball clear signal is output to the frame CPU81. When the game ball clear switch 87 is operated, a state is generated in which the game ball number information is initialized to zero. In this embodiment, the state where the game ball number information is initialized to 0 can be caused when the power is turned on. In other words, the operation of the game ball clear switch 87 is valid when the power is turned on, and the operation at times other than when the power is turned on is invalid.

The RAM clear switch 88 is a switch operated when initializing the information stored in the main RAM 63 and the information stored in the frame RAM 83 (hereinafter referred to as RAM clear). The RAM clear switch 88 outputs a RAM clear signal when pressed. The RAM clear signal is turned on when the RAM clear switch 88 is pressed, and turned off when the RAM clear switch 88 is not pressed. The RAM clear signal is output to the frame CPU 81 and also to the main control board 60 (main CPU 61).

For example, the backup power source 89 may be a power storage device that stores power when power is supplied from the outside. The backup power supply 89 supplies backup power to the frame RAM 83 as well as the main control board 60 (main RAM 63) even when the external power supply is cut off. By receiving backup power from the backup power source 89, the main RAM 63 and frame RAM 83 can retain the stored contents of the main RAM 63 and frame RAM 83 even after the power is turned off. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a backup function. However, the main RAM 63 and/or the frame RAM 83 are non-volatile memories that can retain their stored contents even when the power supply is stopped, so they can be stored even after the power is turned off. It may also be possible to retain information about

The backup power supply 89 supplies at least the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81), the supply solenoid 43, the launch control board 90 (the launch control circuit 91), and the launch solenoid 53 even when the external power supply is cut off. It is possible to supply backup power to the The frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81), the supply solenoid 43, the firing control board 90 (launch control circuit 91), and the firing solenoid 53 receive backup power from the backup power supply 89, so that power supply from the outside is cut off. The firing sequence described below can be executed once even after the firing sequence has been released. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment completes one firing sequence in progress even if the power supply from the outside is cut off during the period in which one firing sequence is being performed. It is configured such that it is possible to

Information that can be stored in the main RAM 63 and that can be backed up includes main information. The main information is information regarding the progress of the game. As an example, the main information includes information regarding the jackpot status (including the number of round games), information regarding the gaming status, information regarding the number of reservations, information regarding normal symbols and special symbols, and information regarding error status.

Information that can be stored in the frame RAM 83 and that can be backed up includes information on the number of game balls, game information, and performance information. The game information is information notified from the main control board 60 according to the progress of the game. As an example, the game information includes the occurrence of a starting opening prize, the occurrence of a regular prize, the occurrence of a big winning opening prize in a jackpot game, gate passage, confirmation of a special symbol (end of a variable game), occurrence of a jackpot, and the current status. There is information that can identify the gaming status, etc. The performance information is information related to a base value and the calculation of the base value. The information related to the calculation of the base value includes information indicating the total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game, and information indicating the total number of valid balls during the normal game.

The backup circuit 89a outputs a power-off detection signal to the frame CPU 81 and to the main CPU 61 of the main control board 60 when the power supply voltage supplied from the power supply unit 99 becomes lower than the specified voltage. The launch permission circuit 89b is a circuit for outputting to the launch control board 90 a signal (hereinafter referred to as a launch permission signal) that can specify that the game ball is in a launch permission state that allows the launch of game balls. The conditions for outputting the launch permission signal will be described later.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the counting switch 18. The frame CPU 81 is configured to be able to input the counting signal output by the counting switch 18. The frame control board 80 is connected to a foul sensor D21, a supply inlet sensor D22, a supply outlet sensor D23, a winning passage count sensor D25, and a non-winning passage counting sensor D26. Further, the frame control board 80 is connected to a lifting entrance sensor D28, a lifting exit sensor D29, and an out sensor D30. The frame CPU 81 outputs foul signals, supply entrance signals, supply exit signals, winning passage signals, non-winning passage signals, ball jam detection signals, lifting entrance signals, lifting exit signals, and out signals output by these sensors and switches. is configured so that it can be input.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the notification audio device 13. The frame CPU 81 can control the output content of the notification audio device 13. The frame control board 80 is connected to the game ball count display device 17. The frame CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the display contents of the game ball count display device 17.

The frame control board 80 is connected to the lifting mechanism 36. The frame CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 36. The frame control board 80 is connected to the supply solenoid 43. The frame CPU 81 can displace the movable piece 42 by controlling the supply of electricity to the supply solenoid 43 . In other words, the frame CPU 81 is configured to be able to control the operation of supplying game balls by the supply device 40.

As described above, the frame control board 80 is connected to the card unit 100. The frame CPU 81 is configured to be able to receive various messages transmitted by the CU control board 105. Note that the connection signal output by the card unit 100 is input from the connection terminal board 98 to the firing permission circuit 89b without passing through the frame CPU 81. As will be described in detail later, a firing stop signal output from the main control board 60 is also input to the firing permission circuit 89b.

The launch control board 90 includes a launch control circuit 91 as a control means for controlling the operation of the launch device 50. The firing control circuit 91 outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 53 based on control signals input from the frame control board 80 and signals input from sensors and switches.

The firing control board 90 is connected to a touch sensor D01, a firing stop switch D02, and a handle volume D03. The firing control circuit 91 is configured to be able to input touch signals, stop signals, and volume signals output from these switches and sensors. The firing control board 90 is connected to the firing solenoid 53. When the firing control circuit 91 outputs a drive signal to the firing solenoid 53, the firing solenoid 53 is driven, and the firing hammer 52 is displaced to the ball hitting position 52P1. That is, the firing control board 90 is configured to be able to control the firing operation of the game ball by the firing device 50.

The processing executed by the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) will be explained.
The frame side power-off processing will be explained.
When the frame CPU 81 receives the power-off detection signal output from the backup circuit 89a, it executes the frame-side power-off process. In the frame side power-off process, the frame CPU 81 calculates the checksum value of the frame RAM 83 and stores the calculated checksum value in the frame RAM 83. Furthermore, the frame CPU 81 causes the frame RAM 83 to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the frame side power-off process has been executed normally. After that, the frame CPU 81 waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the frame RAM 83 when the power is turned off is retained even after the power is turned off by the backup function described above.

The frame side power-on process will be explained.
When the frame CPU 81 is activated when the voltage supplied to the frame control board 80 reaches the voltage necessary for the operation of the frame CPU 81 when the power is turned on, the frame CPU 81 determines whether or not the backed up information is normal. Specifically, the frame CPU 81 determines whether a backup flag is stored in the frame RAM 83. Furthermore, the frame CPU 81 calculates the checksum value of the frame RAM 83 and determines whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the power-off process. The frame CPU 81 determines that it is normal if the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, and otherwise determines it to be abnormal. When it is determined that the backed up information is abnormal, the frame CPU 81 initializes the game ball number information and game information stored in the frame RAM 83. At this time, the frame CPU 81 does not initialize the performance information. Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 returns based on the initialized or backed-up game ball number information, game information, and performance information, and executes frame side normal processing to be described later.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the backed up information is normal, the frame CPU 81 determines whether the game ball clear switch 87 is operated based on whether the game ball clear signal is in the on state. The frame CPU 81 initializes the game ball number information stored in the frame RAM 83 when the game ball clear switch 87 is operated. At this time, the frame CPU 81 does not initialize the game information and performance information. The frame CPU 81 does not initialize the game ball number information when the game ball clear switch 87 is not operated.

The frame CPU 81 determines whether the RAM clear switch 88 is operated based on whether the RAM clear signal is in the on state. The frame CPU 81 initializes the game information stored in the frame RAM 83 when the RAM clear switch 88 is operated. At this time, the frame CPU 81 does not initialize the game ball number information and performance information. The frame CPU 81 does not initialize the game information when the RAM clear switch 88 is not operated. In other words, the performance information is either a situation in which game ball number information is initialized in response to the operation of the game ball clear switch 87, or a situation in which game information is initialized in response to the operation of the RAM clear switch 88. is not initialized. Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 returns based on the initialized or backed-up game ball number information, game information, and performance information, and executes frame side normal processing to be described later.

The frame side normal processing of the frame control board 80 will be explained.
Of the frame-side normal processing, the game information storage processing will be explained.
The game information storage process is a process for storing game information input from the main control board 60 in the frame RAM 83. When the frame CPU 81 receives gaming information that allows the gaming state to be specified, the frame CPU 81 stores the gaming information in the frame RAM 83. By referring to the game information stored in the frame RAM 83, the frame CPU 81 can specify whether or not a jackpot game is being played, whether or not the game is in a high probability state, and whether or not it is in a high ball entry rate state. It is. In addition, when inputting various game information, the frame CPU 81 generates information that allows identification of the input game information and stores it in the frame RAM 83. Further, upon receiving the game information, the frame CPU 81 transmits part or all of the received game information to an external device (such as a hall computer).

The performance information generation process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
The performance information generation process is a process of calculating a base value as performance information. The frame CPU 81 refers to the gaming state flag and determines whether or not the jackpot game is not in progress and the current gaming state is a low probability, low ball entry rate state (that is, whether or not it is a normal game). In the case of normal gaming, the frame CPU 81 generates game information that can specify the occurrence of a starting opening winning prize (hereinafter referred to as starting opening winning information) or gaming information that can specify the occurrence of a regular winning (hereinafter referred to as ordinary winning information). ) is received, the total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game is added. The total number of prize balls acquired is stored in the frame RAM 83 as one piece of performance information. When the frame CPU 81 inputs the winning path signal or the non-winning path signal, it adds up the total number of effective balls during the normal game. The total number of effective balls is stored in the frame RAM 83 as one piece of performance information. The frame CPU 81 calculates the base value using the calculation formula: "Total number of prize balls acquired during the normal game ÷ Total number of effective balls during the normal game x 100". The frame CPU 81 may count the total number of prize balls acquired and the total number of valid balls in intervals of one minute, and calculate the base value every minute. The frame CPU 81 may divide and count the total number of prize balls obtained every time the total number of valid balls reaches a specified number, and calculate the base value every time the total number of valid balls reaches a specified number. As an example, the prescribed number may be 60,000 balls, or may be the maximum number (for example, 100 balls) that can be fired by the firing device 50 per minute. The frame CPU 81 controls the performance display monitor 84 to display information that allows identification of the calculated base value.

The frame CPU 81 may be configured to calculate an accessory ratio and a continuous accessory ratio as performance information and display them on the performance display monitor 84. The accessory ratio is the ratio of the total number of prize balls obtained through electric accessory operation to the total number of prize balls obtained through all game states. The total number of prize balls acquired through electric accessory actuation is the total number of prize balls acquired by entering the second starting port 24 in normal winning games (normal electric accessory activation), and the total number of prize balls acquired in jackpot games (special electric accessory activation). This is the sum of the total number of prize balls won by winning into the prize opening 25. The continuous role object ratio is the ratio of the total number of prize balls acquired through continuous role object operation to the total number of prize balls acquired through all game states. The total number of prize balls obtained by continuous role play is the total number of prize balls obtained by entering the jackpot 25 in the jackpot game.

Of the frame side normal processing, the game ball number information generation processing will be explained.
The game ball number information generation process is a process for generating (managing) the game ball number P2. When the frame CPU 81 receives the acquired prize ball number information from the main control board 60, it adds the acquired prize ball number that can be specified from the acquired prize ball number information to the game ball number P2. In this way, the frame CPU 81 increases the number of game balls P2 according to the information on the number of prize balls obtained. Acquired prize ball number information is control information that is output by the main control board 60 when the conditions for awarding a prize ball are met due to winning in a predetermined winning hole, and specifies the number of prize balls set for the winning hole. configured to be possible. When the frame CPU 81 receives the award signal from the card unit 100, it adds the number of balls to be awarded indicated in the award signal to the number of game balls P2. In this way, the frame CPU 81 increases the number of game balls P2 according to the grant signal.

When the frame CPU 81 detects that one game ball is collected as a foul ball based on the foul signal output by the foul sensor D21, it adds the number of game balls P2. As an example, the frame CPU 81 detects that one game ball has been collected as a foul ball when the foul signal transitions from an on state to an off state to an on state. In this way, the frame CPU81 increases the number of game balls P2 in accordance with the detection by the foul sensor D21.

The frame CPU 81 is capable of controlling to subtract the number of game balls P2 based on the supply exit signal output by the supply exit sensor D23. The control performed by the frame CPU 81 based on the input of the supply exit signal will be described in detail later. The frame CPU 81 has control to subtract the number of game balls P2 based on the count signal output by the count switch 18, and to send a transfer signal to the card unit 100 that can specify the number of game balls subtracted from the number of game balls P2. It is possible. The control performed by the frame CPU 81 based on the input of the count signal will be described in detail later. Then, when the number of game balls P2 becomes "0", the frame CPU 81 outputs a zero number of game balls signal to the firing permission circuit 89b.

The error setting process and error notification process of the frame side normal process will be explained.
The error setting process is a process for detecting the occurrence of an error and setting an error state. In this embodiment, the frame CPU 81 that executes the error setting process corresponds to error detection means that detects errors.

In this embodiment, the errors that can be detected by the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) include at least an abnormal transfer error and an abnormal supply error. An abnormal transfer error occurs when the current number of game balls P2 is a predetermined number in the ball number transfer process for transferring management of part or all of the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 to the card unit 100. This is an error whose detection condition is that it is determined to be less than (1 in this embodiment). The pitch count transfer process will be described in detail later. When the abnormal transfer error detection condition is satisfied, the frame CPU 81 stores abnormal transfer error information indicating the occurrence of an abnormal transfer error in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83. An abnormal supply error occurs when it is detected that one game ball is supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply exit signal output from the supply exit sensor D23 when the specific control state described later is not set. This is an error whose detection condition is that the When the abnormal supply error detection condition is satisfied, the frame CPU 81 stores abnormal supply error information indicating the occurrence of the abnormal supply error in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83. In this embodiment, storing error information indicating the occurrence of an error in the frame RAM 83 corresponds to setting an error state.

The error notification process is a process for notifying an error in a predetermined notification mode when an error state is set. Specifically, when an error state is set, in the error notification process, the frame CPU 81 identifies the error that has occurred based on the information stored in the frame RAM 83, and notifies the occurrence of the identified error. A predetermined notification means is controlled to execute error notification. In this embodiment, the predetermined notifying means corresponds to error notifying means for notifying an error. The predetermined notification means may be, for example, the performance display monitor 84 or the notification audio device 13. Furthermore, the frame CPU 81 may output a predetermined signal to the main control board 60 to cause the notification means (for example, the main display device 21) controlled by the main control board 60 to perform error notification. . Furthermore, the frame CPU 81 outputs a predetermined signal to the effect control board 70 via the main control board 60, thereby controlling the notification means (for example, the effect sound device 12, the effect light emitting device 14, and The effect display device 19) may be controlled to issue an error notification.

The abnormal transfer error and the abnormal supply error are canceled when the error cancellation switch 86 is pressed for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 seconds). Specifically, the frame CPU 81 cancels the setting of the error state by erasing the error information stored in the frame RAM 83 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed while the error release signal remains on. Further, the abnormal transfer error and the abnormal supply error are also canceled when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply from the outside is restored. Specifically, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is configured not to back up the error information stored in the frame RAM 83 when the power supply from the outside is cut off. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply from the outside is restored, the abnormal transfer error and the abnormal supply error are canceled.

The frame CPU 81 performs control to restrict the firing of game balls while a predetermined error state is being set. In this embodiment, the predetermined error state includes an abnormal transfer error state and an abnormal supply error state. In other words, the frame CPU 81 does not execute game ball launch control when an abnormal transfer error or an abnormal supply error is detected. Specifically, when an abnormal transfer error or an abnormal supply error occurs, the frame CPU 81 outputs an error signal to the firing permission circuit 89b. Here, the firing permission circuit 89b inputs a connection signal from the card unit 100, does not input a firing stop signal from the main control board 60, and receives a zero game ball number signal and an error signal from the frame CPU 81. When there is no input, a launch permission signal is generated and output to the launch control board 90. In other words, the launch permission signal is turned on.

Next, various processes performed by the main control board 60 (main CPU 61) will be explained.
The main power-off process will be explained.
When the main CPU 61 receives a power-off detection signal from the frame control board 80 (backup circuit 89a), it executes a power-off process. In the power-off process, the main CPU 61 outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 80. The main CPU 61 calculates the checksum value of the main RAM 63 and stores the calculated checksum value in the main RAM 63. Furthermore, the main CPU 61 causes the main RAM 63 to store information (hereinafter referred to as a backup flag) that can specify that the power-off process has been executed normally. Thereafter, the main CPU 61 waits until the power is completely turned off. Various information stored in the main RAM 63 when the power is turned off is retained even after the power is turned off by the backup function described above.

The main power-on process will be explained.
The main CPU 61 prohibits timer interrupt processing when the voltage supplied to the main control board 60 reaches a voltage necessary for the operation of the main CPU 61 upon power-on. Subsequently, the main CPU 61 determines whether the backed up information is normal. Specifically, the main CPU 61 determines whether the main RAM 63 stores a backup flag. The main CPU 61 also calculates the checksum value of the main RAM 63 and determines whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the power-off process. The main CPU 61 determines that it is normal if the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, but otherwise determines it to be abnormal.

If it is determined that the backed up information is abnormal, the main CPU 61 initializes the main information stored in the main RAM 63. The main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an initialization command) that can specify that various types of information have been initialized to the production control board 70. Thereafter, the main CPU 61 ends the main power-on process.

When determining that the backed up information is normal, the main CPU 61 determines whether a RAM clear signal is input from the frame control board 80 (RAM clear switch 88). When the RAM clear signal is input, the main CPU 61 initializes the main information stored in the main RAM 63. The main CPU 61 outputs an initialization command to the production control board 70. On the other hand, if the RAM clear signal has not been input, the main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a power recovery command) that can specify recovery based on the backed up main information to the production control board 70. . Thereafter, the main CPU 61 ends the main power-on process.

After completing the main power-on processing, the main CPU 61 permits timer interrupt processing. In other words, the main CPU 61 is able to execute processing for advancing the game (hereinafter referred to as main normal processing). If the main information has been initialized, the main normal processing is executed based on the initialized main information. In other words, the main CPU 61 is in a state where both the first special pending number and the second special pending number are zero, neither the first special game nor the second special game is being executed, and no jackpot game has been awarded. Based on this, various processes included in the main normal process are executed. The main normal processing is executed based on the backed up main information if the main information has not been initialized. In other words, the main CPU 61 executes the special game if the first special pending number and the second special pending number are the pending numbers at the time of power off, and if either the first special game or the second special game is being executed. If a jackpot game is being awarded, the process returns to a process of awarding a jackpot game.

The main CPU 61 executes special symbol input processing, special symbol start processing, etc. as timer interrupt processing performed every predetermined control cycle (for example, 4 ms).
The special symbol input process will be explained. The special symbol input process is one of the main normal processes.

The main CPU 61 determines whether the game ball has entered the first starting port 23 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first starting sensor D11. When the game ball enters the first starting port 23, the main CPU 61 determines whether the first pending number stored in the main RAM 63 is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the first pending number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 61 updates the first pending number by adding one. Subsequently, the main CPU 61 controls the first reservation display device 21c to display information that allows identification of the updated first reservation number. In this embodiment, the suspension condition for the first special game is established when the game ball is detected by the first starting sensor D11 when the first suspension number is less than the upper limit number.

Next, the main CPU 61 obtains a random number generated by the random number generation circuit 64, and stores random number information based on the obtained random number in the main RAM 63. For example, the random numbers include a winning random number used for a special symbol winning lottery, a winning pattern random number used for determining a winning symbol, and a fluctuation pattern random number used for determining a fluctuation pattern. The main CPU 61 stores the random number information so that it is possible to specify that the random number information is for the first special game and to specify the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method.

When the main CPU 61 stores the random number information for the first special game in the main RAM 63, when the game ball has not entered the first starting port 23, and when the first pending number is not less than the upper limit number, Based on whether or not a detection signal is input from the second starting sensor D12, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the second starting port 24 or not. When the game ball enters the second starting port 24, the main CPU 61 determines whether the second pending number stored in the main RAM 63 is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). . If the second pending number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 61 updates the second pending number by adding one. The main CPU 61 controls the second reservation display device 21d to display information that allows the second reservation number after addition to be specified. In this embodiment, the second special game suspension condition is established when the second suspension number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the second starting sensor D12.

Next, the main CPU 61 obtains a random number generated within the main control board 60 and causes the main RAM 63 to store random number information based on the obtained random number. The main CPU 61 stores the random number information so that the random number information is used for the second special game and the order in which the random number information is stored can be specified. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the main RAM 63, when the game ball has not entered the second starting port 24, and when the second pending number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 61 The special symbol input process ends.

The special symbol start process will be explained. The special symbol start process is one of the main normal processes.
First, the main CPU 61 determines whether the special game starting conditions are satisfied. The main CPU 61 makes an affirmative determination when a jackpot game is not in progress and a special game is not in progress, while it makes a negative determination when a jackpot game or a special game is in progress. If the special game start conditions are not met, the main CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process. If the special game start condition is satisfied, the main CPU 61 determines whether the second pending number is greater than zero. If the second number of reservations is zero, the main CPU 61 determines whether the first number of reservations is greater than zero. When the first pending number is zero, the main CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the first pending number is greater than zero, the main CPU 61 performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the main CPU 61 updates the first pending number by subtracting it by one. The main CPU 61 controls the first reservation display device 21c to display information that allows identification of the first reservation number after subtraction. Next, the main CPU 61 acquires from the main RAM 63 the first stored random number information among the random number information for the first special game. Subsequently, the main CPU 61 performs a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) as a special symbol winning lottery to determine whether or not the jackpot is won, using the winning random number specified from the acquired random number information. The main CPU 61 performs a jackpot lottery with a jackpot probability according to the current probability state (whether or not the probability variable function is activated).

If the jackpot is won, the main CPU 61 performs jackpot fluctuation processing. In the jackpot variation process, the main CPU 61 performs a jackpot symbol lottery using the winning symbol random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The main CPU 61 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of jackpot variation patterns. After that, the main CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the jackpot is not won, the main CPU 61 performs a loss variation process. In the losing variation process, the main CPU 61 determines losing symbols to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The main CPU 61 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of outlier variation patterns. After that, the main CPU 61 ends the special symbol start process.

If the second pending number is greater than zero, the main CPU 61 performs processing for executing the second special game. The process for executing the second special game includes changing the "first special game" to "second special game" and changing the "first pending number" to "second pending number". Since these processes have been changed to "number", detailed explanation thereof will be omitted. That is, the main CPU 61 completes the special symbol start process after performing any of the fluctuation processes based on the result of the subtraction of the second pending number, the jackpot lottery, and the jackpot lottery.

The main CPU 61 outputs a fluctuation start command and a special symbol command to the production control board 70 in the jackpot fluctuation processing and the loss fluctuation processing. The fluctuation start command is a control command that can specify the fluctuation pattern determined in each fluctuation process and the start of the fluctuation game. The special symbol command is a control command that can specify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in each variation process. Note that the variation start command and the special symbol command are different control commands when the variation process of the first special game is executed and when the variation process of the second special game is executed.

When the special symbol start process is finished, the main CPU 61 causes the first special game or the second special game to be executed by a process different from the special symbol start process. Specifically, when executing the first special game, the main CPU 61 controls the first special symbol display device 21a to start varying display of predetermined symbols. The main CPU 61 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. The main CPU 61 controls the first special symbol display device 21a to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed. Further, when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variation end command) that can specify the end of the variation game to the production control board 70.

On the other hand, when executing the second special game, the main CPU 61 controls the second special symbol display device 21b to start variable display of predetermined symbols. The main CPU 61 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. The main CPU 61 controls the second special symbol display device 21b to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process when the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed. Moreover, the main CPU 61 outputs a variation end command to the production control board 70 when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed. As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10, the main CPU 61 executes the special symbol input process and the special symbol start process, and thereby performs a winning lottery when a game ball enters the starting hole. It is configured to be able to execute a symbol variation game based on the results.

The jackpot game process will be explained. The jackpot game process is one of the main normal processes.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the main CPU 61 stops displaying the jackpot symbols in the special game, the main CPU 61 executes the jackpot game process after the special jackpot game ends. The main CPU 61 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (namely, jackpot type) determined in the special symbol start process. The main CPU 61 awards the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time to the production control board 70. When the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 61 performs processing for executing a round game. That is, the main CPU 61 controls the special solenoid SL2 using the identified opening control data for the jackpot game, and opens the jackpot opening 25. The main CPU 61 controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the grand prize opening 25 when the number of game balls detected by the count sensor D13 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or when the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed. , ends the round game. The main CPU 61 repeatedly performs the process for executing such a round game until the upper limit number of round games determined for the jackpot game is completed. Each time the main CPU 61 starts a round game, it outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) that can specify the start of the round game to the production control board 70. When the final round game ends, the main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending start command) that can specify the start of the ending time to the production control board 70. The main CPU 61 ends the jackpot game when the ending time has elapsed. The main CPU 61 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) that can specify the passage of the ending time to the production control board 70.

The state transition process will be explained. The state transition process is one of the main normal processes.
When the main CPU 61 finishes the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the main CPU 61 sets a high certainty flag in the main RAM 63. That is, the main CPU 61 controls to a high probability state. The main CPU 61 does not erase the probability change flag after the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, the main CPU 61 does not set the high certainty flag in the main RAM 63 after finishing the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol different from the first jackpot symbol. That is, the main CPU 61 controls to a low probability state. When the main CPU 61 starts a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, the main CPU 61 erases the high probability flag. That is, the main CPU 61 controls to a low probability state during the jackpot game.

The main CPU 61 sets an operation flag in the main RAM 63 when the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol is completed. That is, the main CPU 61 controls the ball to a high ball entry rate state. After the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the main CPU 61 updates the value of the execution counter stored in the main RAM 63 every time a special game is started after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol. Count the number of executions. The main CPU 61 erases the activation flag stored in the main RAM 63 when the special game in which the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game reaches the activation number is completed. That is, after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the main CPU 61 controls to a low ball entry rate state when the special game for the number of times of activation ends. The main CPU 61 does not erase the activation flag after the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends until the next jackpot game is awarded. When starting a jackpot game and the activation flag is set, the main CPU 61 erases the activation flag. That is, the main CPU 61 controls the ball into a low ball entry rate state during the jackpot game.

Various processes executed by the performance control board 70 (performance CPU 71) will be explained.
The performance power restoration process will be explained.
When the initialization command is input, the production CPU 71 controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES to execute RAM clear notification (initialization notification). As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio device 12 outputs a sound that can identify the execution of RAM clear, such as a sound that reads out the character string "RAM clear". As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that the effect light emitting device 14 emits light in a light emission pattern exclusively for RAM clear. As an example, the RAM clear notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can specify execution of RAM clear, such as a character string "RAM clear", is displayed on the effect display device 19. The effect CPU 71 controls the effect device group ES to end the RAM clear notification when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the RAM clear notification. Moreover, when the initialization command is input, the effect CPU 71 controls the effect display device 19 to display a combination of a predetermined background image and a predetermined effect pattern.

When the production CPU 71 inputs the power recovery command, it controls some or all of the production devices constituting the production device group ES to execute a recovery notification. As an example, the return notification is executed in such a manner that the performance audio device 12 outputs a sound that can identify the execution of RAM clearing, such as a sound that reads out the character string "The power is being restored." As an example, the return notification is executed by causing the effect light emitting device 14 to emit light in a light emission pattern exclusively for power recovery. As an example, the restoration notification is executed in such a manner that an image that can identify the execution of RAM clearing, such as a character string "The power is being restored", is displayed on the effect display device 19. The effect CPU 71 controls the effect device group ES to end the return notification when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the return notification. The present invention is not limited to this, and the production CPU 71 may have a configuration in which the return notification is not executed. Moreover, when the production CPU 71 inputs the power restoration command, it controls the production display device 19 to display a predetermined background image and a combination of production symbols different from the predetermined combination of production symbols.

The jackpot production process will be explained.
The jackpot performance process is a process for executing a performance during a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as jackpot performance). Upon receiving the opening command, the performance CPU 71 controls the performance device group ES to execute the opening performance. Upon receiving the round command, the performance CPU 71 controls the performance device group ES to execute the round performance. When the effect CPU 71 receives the ending start command, it controls the effect device group ES to execute the ending effect. When the effect CPU 71 receives the ending end command, it controls the effect device group ES to end the ending effect.

The production game processing will be explained.
The effect game process is a process for executing the effect game as one of the display effects related to the special game while the special game is being executed. Upon receiving the variation start command and the special symbol command, the performance CPU 71 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device 19 to execute the performance game. Specifically, upon receiving the variation start command, the performance CPU 71 selects the performance pattern (performance content) of the performance game based on the fluctuation pattern that can be specified from the command. Further, upon receiving the special symbol command, the production CPU 71 determines a symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the production game based on the special symbol that can be specified from the command. If the jackpot symbol can be specified from the special symbol command, the performance CPU 71 determines the jackpot symbol combination. The performance CPU 71 determines the deviant symbol combination when it is possible to specify the deviant symbol from the special symbol command.

Then, the performance CPU 71 controls the performance display device 19 to start variable display of the performance symbols in each symbol row, triggered by the input of the variation start command. That is, the performance CPU 71 starts the performance game. Furthermore, when performing a predetermined performance in connection with the performance game, the performance CPU 71 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device 19 to execute the performance. The performance CPU 71 causes the symbol combination to be temporarily stopped and displayed when a predetermined timing arrives after starting the performance game, and also causes the symbol combination to be fixed and displayed in a fixed state when the variation end command is input. Incidentally, the performance CPU 71 may cause the symbol combination to be fixed and stopped when the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, irrespective of the variation end command. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted.

Control when firing game balls will be explained.
In this embodiment, the supply and launch of game balls are realized by a combination of control of the supply device 40 by the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) and control of the launch device 50 by the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91). Ru.

In this embodiment, the game ball launch condition is that the launch permission signal and the touch signal are in the on state, and the stop signal is in the off state, and the volume signal output in response to the operation of the handle lever 15a is Established when the voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold. The frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) and the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) perform the supply operation of supplying game balls from the supply device 40 to the launch device 50 and the game when the game ball launch conditions are satisfied. A firing sequence including a firing action of firing a ball is executed.

As shown in FIG. 10, the firing control circuit 91 outputs a subtraction reference signal to the frame CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 when the game ball firing conditions are met (time t1). Although not shown here, the firing control circuit 91 outputs a subtraction reference signal to the frame CPU 81 of the frame control board 80 at a predetermined period while the game ball firing conditions are satisfied. In this embodiment, the cycle (time interval) of outputting the subtraction reference signal is the same as the time required for one firing sequence. Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, a plurality of firing sequences are continuously executed while the game ball firing conditions are satisfied.

When the frame CPU 81 receives the subtraction reference signal, it controls the supply solenoid 43 from the OFF state to the ON state, thereby displacing the movable piece 42 from the stop position 42P1 to the supply position 42P2. After that, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 from the on state to the off state, when a predetermined first time period has elapsed since the supply solenoid 43 was turned on, thereby turning the movable piece 42 on. It is displaced from the supply position 42P2 to the stop position 42P1 (time t3). That is, when the frame CPU 81 receives the subtraction reference signal, it displaces the movable piece 42 to the supply position 42P2 for a first time. Thereby, in this embodiment, one game ball held by the holding part 42a is supplied to the firing device 50 via the supply passage 44a.

Further, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing hammer 52 by controlling the firing solenoid 53 from the OFF state to the ON state when a predetermined second time period has elapsed since the game ball firing conditions were established. is displaced from the retreat position 52P2 to the ball hitting position 52P1 (time t4). Thereby, in this embodiment, one game ball supplied to the firing device 50 is fired toward the game area 20a. At this time, the firing control circuit 91 supplies the firing solenoid 53 with a driving current having a voltage corresponding to the input volume signal, thereby firing the game ball with a firing intensity corresponding to the rotational operation amount of the handle lever 15a. Thereafter, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the on state to the off state, when a predetermined third time period has elapsed since the firing solenoid 53 was turned on. 52 from the ball hitting position 52P1 to the retreat position 52P2 (time t5).

Through such control, in this embodiment, one game ball held in the holding part 42a is supplied to the firing device 50, and the firing device 50 The game balls supplied are fired toward the game area 20a. In this embodiment, control by the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) and the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) for executing one launch sequence corresponds to launch control. The firing control of this embodiment includes control for causing the supply device 40 to perform a supply operation, and control for causing the firing device 50 to perform a firing operation. In particular, in the firing control of this embodiment, the firing operation is performed after the supplying operation is performed.

Furthermore, the frame CPU 81 is capable of setting a specific control state during execution of the firing sequence. In this embodiment, the specific control state corresponds to a subtraction permission state in which control is possible to subtract the number of game balls P2 triggered by the detection of game balls by the supply outlet sensor D23. The process of subtracting the number of game balls P2 in response to the detection of game balls by the supply outlet sensor D23 will be described in detail later.

Specifically, upon input of the subtraction reference signal, the frame CPU 81 stores specific control information in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83, thereby setting the specific control state (time t1). In other words, in this embodiment, the specific control state is set with the start of the supply operation of supplying game balls to the firing device 50.

When the frame CPU 81 is set to a specific control state and determines that the game ball has been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply exit signal output from the supply exit sensor D23, it will be described later. By executing the supply subtraction process, the specific control state is ended (time t2). That is, the specific control state ends when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23.

Further, although not shown, even if the frame CPU 81 does not determine that the game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50, a predetermined fourth time has elapsed since the specific control state was set. Taking this as an opportunity, the specific control state is ended by executing a specific period elapsed process, which will be described later. In other words, the frame CPU 81 ends the specific control state when the fourth time period has elapsed since inputting the subtraction reference signal. That is, the specific control state can be set over a specific period from when the subtraction reference signal is input until the fourth time elapses.

In this embodiment, the fourth time is the same or substantially the same time as the time from when the firing control circuit 91 outputs the subtraction reference signal until the firing operation is started. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the subtraction control state can be set from the start of the supply operation until the start of the firing operation.

Control for managing the number of game balls P2 will be explained.
The counting switch pressing process performed by the frame CPU 81 will be explained. The frame CPU 81 performs a counting switch pressing process in response to input of a counting signal indicating that the counting switch 18 has been operated.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the counting switch pressing process, the frame CPU 81 determines whether a specific control state is set (step Sa1). If the specific control state is not set (step Sa1: NO), the frame CPU 81 performs a process for transferring management of some or all of the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 to the card unit 100. A pitch count transfer process is executed (step Sa2). The pitch count transfer process will be explained in detail. After that, the frame CPU 81 ends the counting switch pressing process.

On the other hand, if the specific control state is set (step Sa1: YES), the frame CPU 81 stores specific operation information indicating that the counting switch 18 has been operated in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83 (step Sa3 ). Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 ends the counting switch pressing process without executing the pitch count transfer process.

The pitch count transfer process performed by the frame CPU 81 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 12, in the ball number transfer process, the frame CPU 81 determines whether the number of game balls P2 stored in the frame RAM 83 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (1 in this embodiment) (step Sb1). In addition, in this embodiment, the number of game balls P2 is 0 or a positive integer, so when the number of game balls P2 is 1 or more, it has the same meaning as when the number of game balls P2 is not 0, and the number of game balls P2 is 1 or more. When the number P2 is less than 1, it has the same meaning as when the number P2 of game balls is 0.

When the number of game balls P2 is 1 or more (step Sb1: YES), the frame CPU 81 controls the number of game balls P2 to be subtracted by 1 (step Sb2). Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 outputs a transfer signal to the CU control CPU 105a instructing to add 1 to the number of pitches P1 held (step Sb3). After that, the frame CPU 81 ends the pitch count transfer process.

On the other hand, when the number of game balls P2 is less than 1 (step Sb1: NO), the frame CPU 81 stores abnormal transfer error information in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83 (step Sb4). That is, when the number of game balls P2 is less than 1 when the number of balls transfer process is executed, the frame CPU 81 determines that there is an abnormal transfer error. Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 ends the ball number transfer process without subtracting the game ball number P2 and without outputting a transfer signal.

According to such pitch number transfer processing, the frame CPU 81 transfers the management of part or all of the game ball number P2 to the card unit 100 based on the operation of the counting switch 18, thereby increasing the game ball number P2. can be subtracted. In this embodiment, the ball number transfer process corresponds to specific subtraction control for subtracting the number of game balls P2.

On the other hand, in the pitch number transfer process, if the number of game balls P2 is less than 1, the frame CPU 81 limits the subtraction of the number of game balls P2. In other words, in the ball number transfer process of this embodiment, when the number of game balls P2 is less than or equal to a specific number (0 in this embodiment), subtraction of the number of game balls P2 is limited. That is, in the ball number transfer process of this embodiment, if the number of game balls P2 is less than or equal to the specific number, the number of game balls P2 is not subtracted.

Furthermore, if the number of game balls P2 is less than 1 in the ball number transfer process, the frame CPU 81 determines that there is an abnormal transfer error. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the number of balls transfer process is executed and the number of game balls P2 is less than 1, a predetermined notification means notifies the occurrence of an abnormal transfer error. Error notification is executed. In other words, the predetermined notification means notifies an error when the number of game balls P2 is less than or equal to a specific number (0 in this embodiment) when the number of balls transfer process is executed.

According to such counting switch pressing processing and pitch number transfer processing, the frame CPU 81 executes the pitch number transfer processing when the counting switch 18 is operated during a period when the specific control state is not set. On the other hand, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the period in which the specific control state is set, the frame CPU 81 performs a specific control process that can identify that the counting switch 18 has been operated without executing the pitch count transfer process. The operation information is stored in the frame RAM 83. In this embodiment, the period in which the specific control state is not set corresponds to the subtraction permission period. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the period set in the specific control state corresponds to the subtraction restriction period.

The supply subtraction process performed by the frame CPU 81 will be explained. The frame CPU 81 executes the supply subtraction process upon determining that the game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50. The frame CPU81 determines whether or not game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply outlet signal input from the supply outlet sensor D23. Specifically, the frame CPU 81 determines that one game ball has been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 when the supply exit signal transitions from the off state to the on state to the off state.

As shown in FIG. 13, in the supply subtraction process, the frame CPU 81 determines whether a specific control state is set (step Sc1). If the specific control state is set (step Sc1: YES), the frame CPU 81 subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 managed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 (step Sc2). Subsequently, the frame CPU 81 terminates the specific control state by erasing the specific control information stored in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83 (step Sc3).

Subsequently, the frame CPU 81 determines whether specific operation information is stored (step Sc4). If the specific operation information is stored (step Sc4: YES), the frame CPU 81 executes pitch count transfer processing (step Sc5). Note that the content of the pitch number transfer process executed in step Sc5 of the supply subtraction process is the same as the content of the pitch number transfer process executed in step Sa2 of the counting switch press process, so the explanation will be omitted. After completing the pitch count transfer process, the frame CPU 81 deletes the specific operation information (step Sc6). After that, the frame CPU 81 ends the supply subtraction process. On the other hand, if the specific operation information is not stored (step Sc4: NO), the frame CPU 81 ends the supply subtraction process without executing the pitch number transfer process.

If the specific control state is not set (step Sc1: NO), the frame CPU 81 stores abnormal supply error information in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83 (step Sc7). That is, when the supply subtraction process is executed when the specific control state is not set, the frame CPU 81 determines that there is an abnormal supply error. Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 ends the supply subtraction process without subtracting the number of game balls P2 and without executing the number of balls transfer process.

Through such supply subtraction processing, the frame CPU 81 subtracts the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is set. The supply subtraction process in this embodiment corresponds to supply subtraction control that subtracts the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 during execution of the firing sequence.

On the other hand, in the supply subtraction process, the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is not set. In particular, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is not set, the frame CPU 81 determines that an abnormal supply error has occurred. Further, the specific control state is terminated on the condition that a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, when two or more game balls are detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when one firing sequence is executed, an abnormal supply error is detected by a predetermined notification means. An error notification is executed to notify the occurrence of the error. In other words, the predetermined notification means performs error notification upon detection of a game ball by the second supply outlet sensor D23 in one firing sequence.

The specific period elapse processing performed by the frame CPU 81 will be explained. The frame CPU 81 executes a specific period elapsed process when the fourth time has elapsed since inputting the subtraction reference signal.
As shown in FIG. 14, in the specific period elapsed process, the frame CPU 81 determines whether the specific control state is set (step Sd1). If the specific control state is not set (step Sd1: NO), the frame CPU 81 ends the specific period elapsed process.

On the other hand, if the specific control state is set (step Sd1: YES), the frame CPU 81 terminates the specific control state by erasing the specific control information stored in a predetermined storage area in the frame RAM 83. (Step Sd2). Subsequently, the frame CPU 81 determines whether specific operation information is stored (step Sd3). If the specific operation information is not stored (step Sd3: NO), the frame CPU 81 ends the specific period elapsed process.

On the other hand, if the specific operation information is stored (step Sd3: YES), the frame CPU 81 executes pitch count transfer processing (step Sd4). The content of the pitch number transfer process executed in step Sd4 of the specific period elapsed process is the pitch number transfer process executed in step Sa2 of the counting switch pressing process, and the pitch count transfer process executed in step Sc5 of the supply subtraction process. Since this is the same as the content of the transfer process, the explanation will be omitted. After completing the pitch count transfer process, the frame CPU 81 deletes the specific operation information (step Sd5). After that, the frame CPU 81 ends the specific period elapsed processing.

According to such supply subtraction processing and specific period elapse processing, when specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 executes pitch count transfer processing upon completion of the specific control state. In other words, when the specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 executes the pitch count transfer process upon the arrival of the subtraction permission period.

A specific example of how the number of game balls P2 changes when the game balls are fired will be described below.
In the example shown in FIG. 15, it is assumed that when the game ball number P2 is "3" and the game ball firing condition is met, two firing sequences are executed consecutively. In this case, when the frame CPU 81 inputs the subtraction reference signal when the game ball firing condition is established, it controls the CPU 81 to execute the first firing sequence. Specifically, upon input of the subtraction reference signal, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 from the off state to the on state, and sets it to a specific control state (time t11). Subsequently, when a first period of time has elapsed since the supply solenoid 43 was controlled to be in the on state, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 to be in the off state from the on state (time t13). By such operation of the supply solenoid 43, in this embodiment, in principle, one game ball is supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50.

Moreover, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the OFF state to the ON state when a second time period elapses after the game ball firing conditions are established (time t15). Thereafter, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the on state to the off state when a third period of time has elapsed since the firing solenoid 53 was turned on (time t16). Due to such an operation of the firing solenoid 53, in this embodiment, the game ball supplied to the firing device 50 is fired toward the game area 20a.

Further, in this example, since the game ball firing conditions are satisfied even at the end of the first firing sequence, the second firing sequence is executed following the first firing sequence. Specifically, when the frame CPU 81 receives the subtraction reference signal upon completion of the first firing sequence, it controls the supply solenoid 43 from the off state to the on state and sets it to a specific control state (time t16). Subsequently, when a first period of time has elapsed since the supply solenoid 43 was controlled to be in the on state, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 to be in the off state from the on state (time t17). Moreover, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the OFF state to the ON state when a second time period has elapsed since the game ball firing conditions were established (time t19). Thereafter, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the on state to the off state when a third period of time has elapsed since the firing solenoid 53 was turned on (time t20).

When the frame CPU 81 determines that the game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply exit signal input from the supply exit sensor D23, it executes the supply subtraction process (times t12, 14, 18 ).

In the first supply subtraction process in the first firing sequence, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, it subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 and ends the specific control state (time t12). In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "3" to "2". On the other hand, in the second supply subtraction process in the first firing sequence, the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 because it is not set to the specific control state (time t14). According to this, in one firing sequence, the frame CPU 81 subtracts the number of game balls P2 upon detection of the first game ball by the supply outlet sensor D23, while subtracting the number of game balls P2 by the supply outlet sensor D23. Control is possible so that the number of game balls P2 is not subtracted when a ball is detected.

In addition, in the first supply subtraction process in the second firing sequence, the frame CPU 81 is set to a specific control state in the same way as when executing the first supply subtraction process in the first firing sequence. , the number of game balls P2 is subtracted by 1, and the specific control state is ended (time t18). In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "2" to "1". At this time, the time from when the specific control state is set to when the first supply subtraction process is executed may be different between the first firing sequence and the second firing sequence. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the length of time during which the specific control state is set is different between when the firing sequence is performed once and when the second firing sequence is performed following the first firing sequence. There are times when it is done differently.

In the example shown in FIG. 16, it is assumed that one firing sequence is executed when the game ball firing condition is satisfied when the number of game balls P2 is "3". The control when executing one firing sequence is the same as the control when executing the first firing sequence in the example shown in FIG. 15, so the explanation will be omitted. In addition, in this example, it is assumed that it is not determined that the game ball is supplied from the supply device 40 to the launch device 50 based on the supply exit signal input from the supply exit sensor D23 during execution of one launch sequence. do.

In this case, the frame CPU 81 executes a specific period elapsed process when the fourth time has elapsed since inputting the subtraction reference signal (time t23). At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, the specific control state is ended in the specific period elapse processing. According to this, the specific control state is set over a specific period from when the subtraction reference signal is input until the fourth time elapses.

In the example shown in FIG. 17, it is assumed that one firing sequence is executed when the game ball firing condition is satisfied when the number of game balls P2 is "3". The control when executing one firing sequence is the same as the control when executing the first firing sequence in the example shown in FIG. 15, so the explanation will be omitted. Further, in this example, it is assumed that the counting switch 18 is operated during execution of the firing sequence, and game balls are supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 before the counting switch 18 is operated. That is, in this example, it is assumed that the counting switch 18 is operated during a period in which one firing sequence is being executed and a specific control state is not set.

In this case, when the frame CPU 81 determines that the game ball has been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply exit signal input from the supply exit sensor D23, it executes the supply subtraction process (time t32). In the supply subtraction process, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, it subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 and ends the specific control state. In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "3" to "2".

Thereafter, when the frame CPU 81 receives a count signal indicating that the count switch 18 has been operated, it performs count switch pressing processing (time t34). At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is not set to the specific control state, it executes the pitch count transfer process in the counting switch pressing process. Then, since the number of game balls P2 when the number of balls transfer process is executed is 1 or more (2 in this example), the frame CPU 81 subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 in the number of balls transfer process, and A transfer signal instructing to add 1 to the number of balls P1 in possession is output to the CU control CPU 105a. In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "2" to "1".

According to this, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction permission period, which is a period in which a specific control state is not set during the period in which the firing sequence is being executed, the frame CPU 81 controls the ball count during the subtraction permission period. By executing the number transfer process, the number of game balls P2 can be subtracted.

In the example shown in FIG. 18, it is assumed that one firing sequence is executed when the game ball firing condition is satisfied when the number of game balls P2 is "3". The control when executing one firing sequence is the same as the control when executing the first firing sequence in the example shown in FIG. 15, so the explanation will be omitted. Further, in this example, it is assumed that the counting switch 18 is operated during execution of the firing sequence, and the game balls are not supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 before the operation of the counting switch 18, and the counting switch 18 is operated. It is assumed that the game ball is supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 after the operation of step 18. That is, in this example, it is assumed that the counting switch 18 is operated during a period in which one firing sequence is being executed and a specific control state is set.

In this case, when the frame CPU 81 receives a count signal indicating that the count switch 18 has been operated, it performs count switch pressing processing (time t42). At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, the specific operation information is stored without executing the pitch count transfer process in the counting switch pressing process. That is, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period, which is a period set in a specific control state during the period during which the firing sequence is being executed, the frame CPU 81 performs the ball count transfer process during the subtraction restriction period. Specific operation information is stored in the frame RAM 83 without executing.

Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 executes the pitch count transfer process when the specific control state is ended in the supply subtraction process or the specific period elapse process. In this example, it is assumed that the supply subtraction process is executed when it is determined that the game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply outlet signal input from the supply outlet sensor D23 (time point t44). At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, it subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 in the supply subtraction process, and ends the specific control state. In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "3" to "2". Furthermore, in this case, since the specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 executes the pitch number transfer process in the supply subtraction process. Then, since the number of game balls P2 when the number of balls transfer process is executed is 1 or more (2 in this example), the frame CPU 81 subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 in the number of balls transfer process, and A transfer signal instructing to add 1 to the number of balls P1 in possession is output to the CU control CPU 105a. In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "2" to "1".

According to this, when the specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 can execute the pitch count transfer process upon the arrival of the subtraction permission period.
In the example shown in FIG. 19, when the number of game balls P2 is "1", one firing sequence is executed in the same manner as in the example shown in FIG. It is assumed that the counting switch 18 is operated during a period in which a specific control state is set within a certain period.

In this case, when the frame CPU 81 receives a count signal indicating that the count switch 18 has been operated, it performs count switch pressing processing (time t52). At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, the specific operation information is stored without executing the pitch count transfer process in the counting switch pressing process. Thereafter, the frame CPU 81 executes the supply subtraction process based on the supply exit signal inputted from the supply exit sensor D23, triggered by the determination that the game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 (time t54). . At this time, since the frame CPU 81 is set to the specific control state, it subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 in the supply subtraction process, and ends the specific control state. In this example, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted from "1" to "0".

Furthermore, in this case, since the specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 executes the pitch number transfer process in the supply subtraction process. At this time, since the number of game balls P2 when the number of balls transfer process is executed is less than 1 (0 in this example), the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 in the number of balls transfer process, Nor does it output a transfer signal instructing to add 1 to the number of pitches P1 held.

In this way, when the counting switch 18 is operated when the frame CPU 81 is set to a specific control state and the number of game balls P2 is "1", the frame CPU 81 then transfers game balls from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50. When it is determined that the number of game balls P2 has been supplied, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted by 1 and set to "0" by executing a supply subtraction process. In this case, since the counting switch 18 is operated and the specific operation information is stored, the frame CPU 81 executes the ball number transfer process after ending the specific control state in the supply subtraction process, but the number of game balls Since P2 is "0", the number of game balls P2 is not subtracted in the ball number transfer process. That is, in this embodiment, the frame CPU 81 determines that when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period and the number of game balls P2 is a special number (1 in this embodiment), the subtraction permission period has arrived. In the ball number transfer process that is executed in response to this, the subtraction of the number of game balls P2 is restricted. In this embodiment, the special number is one more than the specific number.

In the example shown in FIG. 20, when the number of game balls P2 is "1", one firing sequence is executed when the game ball firing condition is satisfied. Further, in this example, it is assumed that the external power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 10 is cut off during one firing sequence, and then the external power supply is restarted.

Specifically, in this example, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 from the OFF state to the ON state, and sets it to a specific control state, triggered by the input of the subtraction reference signal (time t61). Subsequently, the frame CPU 81 stores specific operation information in the frame RAM 83 by performing a count switch pressing process triggered by the input of a count signal indicating that the count switch 18 has been operated (time t62). After that, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 from the on state to the off state when a first period of time has elapsed since the supply solenoid 43 was controlled to the on state (time t63).

In this example, it is assumed that the external power supply is cut off after the supply solenoid 43 is turned off and before the firing solenoid 53 is turned on (time t64).

By receiving backup power from the backup power source 89, the firing control circuit 91 can control the firing solenoid 53 to operate even after the external power supply is cut off. Specifically, the firing control circuit 91 turns the firing solenoid 53 from the OFF state to the ON state when a second period of time has elapsed after the game ball firing condition is established, even after the external power supply is cut off. (time t65). Thereafter, the firing control circuit 91 controls the firing solenoid 53 from the on state to the off state when a third time period has elapsed since the firing solenoid 53 was turned on (time t66).

Although not shown, the launch control circuit 91 completes the launch operation by receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89 even if the external power supply is cut off during the launch operation. can be done. Although not shown, the frame CPU 81 controls the supply solenoid 43 by receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89 even if the power supply from the outside is cut off during the execution of the supply operation. The supply operation can be performed by

Further, the frame RAM 83 stores and holds part of the information stored in the frame RAM 83 by receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89 . For example, the information stored and held by the frame RAM 83 includes game ball number information that allows the number of game balls P2 to be specified. On the other hand, the information stored and held by the frame RAM 83 does not include specific control information and specific operation information.

Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply is restarted, the game is resumed based on the number of game balls P2 at the time when the power supply was cut off. (time t67). On the other hand, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply is restarted, it is difficult to determine whether or not the specific control state was set when the power supply was cut off. Regardless of the situation, the specific control state will not be set when power supply is resumed. That is, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply is restarted, the subtraction permission period starts after the power supply is restarted.

In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the power supply from the outside is cut off and then the power supply is restarted, whether or not the specific operation information was stored when the power supply was cut off is determined. Regardless, when the power supply is restarted, the specific operation information will be in a state where it is not stored. For this reason, even if the frame CPU 81 stores specific operation information in the frame RAM 83 triggered by the operation of the counting switch 18 while the specific control state is set, the frame CPU 81 will subsequently change the specific control state. If the power supply from the outside is cut off before the end, the pitch count transfer process will not be executed once the power supply is restored. That is, when the frame CPU 81 stores specific operation information in the frame RAM 83 triggered by the operation of the counting switch 18 during the subtraction restriction period, the frame CPU 81 stores specific operation information from the outside until the subtraction permission period arrives. When the power supply is cut off, the pitch count transfer process is not executed even if the subtraction permission period arrives after the power supply is restored.

The operation and effects of this embodiment will be explained.
(1) In one firing sequence, the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 when the second game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, even if a game ball is mistakenly detected twice by the supply outlet sensor D23 in one firing sequence, the number of game balls P2 is increased twice. This can prevent subtraction. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

(2) The frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is not set. Then, the specific control state ends with the first detection of a game ball by the supply outlet sensor D23 in one firing sequence. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the number of game balls P2 from being subtracted in response to the second and subsequent detection of game balls by the supply outlet sensor D23 in one firing sequence. , the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

(3) In particular, the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is not set. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the number of game balls P2 from being subtracted even though the supply operation is not performed, so that the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls is improved. can be improved.

(4) Frame The CPU 81 terminates the specific control state when a fourth period of time has elapsed since the specific control state was set in response to the input of the subtraction reference signal. For this reason, the frame CPU 81 is triggered by the fact that the game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 after the fourth time has elapsed since the start of the operation of the supply solenoid 43 in response to the input of the subtraction reference signal. The number of game balls P2 is not subtracted. Here, the case where the game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 after the fourth time has elapsed since the start of the operation of the supply solenoid 43 means, for example, when some abnormality has occurred in the supply device 40, or when the game ball has already been detected. There may be a case where the game balls detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 flow back into the supply device 40 due to insufficient firing strength. Even in such a case, the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment can control the number of game balls P2 not to be subtracted, so that the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

(5) The length of time during which the specific control state is set may differ depending on whether a firing sequence is performed once or when a second firing sequence is performed following one firing sequence. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, a specific control state can be set for an appropriate period of time depending on the game situation regarding firing control, so that the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be further improved.

(6) In one firing sequence, after the supplying operation of supplying game balls from the supplying device 40 to the firing device 50 is performed, the firing operation of firing the supplied game balls is performed. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the game balls from remaining in the firing device 50 at the end of one firing sequence, so the number of game balls that can be fired can be reduced. It is possible to correctly count the number of game balls P2.

(7) When the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction permission period, the frame CPU 81 can subtract the number of game balls P2 by executing the ball number transfer process during the subtraction permission period. On the other hand, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period, the frame CPU 81 does not execute the pitch count transfer process during the subtraction restriction period, but transfers the pitch count upon the arrival of the subtraction permission period thereafter. By executing the process, the number of game balls P2 can be subtracted. According to this, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to execute the ball number transfer process at an appropriate timing according to the game situation, so that the number of game balls P2 does not match the game situation. You can prevent this from happening. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

(8) If the specific control state is not set, the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2 when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23. Here, the subtraction permission period is a period in which the specific control state is not set. For this reason, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, during the subtraction permission period in which the number of game balls P2 is subtracted in response to the operation of the counting switch 18, when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23. It is possible to prevent the management of the number of game balls P2 from becoming complicated due to the number of game balls P2 being subtracted even if the number of game balls P2 is triggered by this.

(9) When set to the specific control state, the frame CPU 81 subtracts the number of game balls P2 when the game balls are detected by the supply outlet sensor D23. Here, the subtraction restriction period is a period set in a specific control state. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the count switch 18 is set to a specific control state in which the number of game balls P2 is subtracted when a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23, It is possible to prevent the management of the number of game balls P2 from becoming complicated because the number of game balls P2 is subtracted even when the number of game balls P2 is operated.

(10) If the number of game balls P2 when executing the number of balls transfer process is "0", the frame CPU 81 does not subtract the number of game balls P2. According to this, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls from decreasing due to the number of game balls P2 becoming a negative number.

(11) In particular, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period, and when the number of game balls P2 at the time the counting switch 18 is operated is "1" or less, The number of game balls P2 is not subtracted in the number of balls transfer process that is executed after the subtraction permission period has arrived. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, the number of game balls P2 is subtracted by the supply subtraction process after the counting switch 18 is operated until the number of balls transfer process is executed. However, it is possible to prevent the number of game balls P2 from becoming inconsistent with the game situation. Therefore, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, the reliability of data regarding the number of game balls can be improved.

(12) The frame CPU 81 does not execute game ball launch control when an abnormal supply error or an abnormal transfer error is detected. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the number of game balls P2 from being unable to be counted correctly due to execution of firing control while an error is detected.

(13) In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when an abnormal supply error is detected, an error notification is performed by a predetermined notification means to notify the occurrence of the abnormal supply error. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of this embodiment, it is easy for the administrator of the pachinko game machine 10 to understand that a game ball has been detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 two or more times in one firing sequence. can do.

(14) In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when an abnormal transfer error is detected, error notification is performed by a predetermined notification means to notify the occurrence of the abnormal transfer error. According to this, in the pachinko game machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the number of balls transfer process is executed when the number of game balls P2 is "0", the error notification is alerted and the game is stored as data. It is possible to prevent the number of game balls played from being inconsistent with the game situation.

(15) If the power supply from the outside is cut off from when the counting switch 18 is operated until the subtraction permission period arrives, the power supply is then resumed and the subtraction permission period arrives. It is assumed that the pitch count transfer process is triggered by this. In this case, the time from when the counting switch 18 is operated until the pitch count transfer process is executed becomes longer than when the external power supply is not cut off. For this reason, when the number of game balls P2 is subtracted by the ball number transfer process, it becomes difficult to understand why the number of game balls was subtracted, and the reliability of the data regarding the number of game balls decreases. It is possible that In contrast, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, even if the counting switch 18 is operated before the external power supply is cut off, the subtraction permission period has arrived after the power supply is resumed. Since the number of balls transfer process is not executed in response to this, it is possible to prevent the reliability of the data regarding the number of game balls from decreasing.

The embodiment described above can be modified and implemented as follows. Note that the above-described embodiments and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically consistent range.

- In one firing sequence, the supplying operation may be performed after the firing operation is performed. According to this, the game ball can be immediately launched when the game ball launch condition is satisfied.

- The shooting conditions for the game ball may be changed as appropriate. Further, the output conditions of the launch permission signal may be changed as appropriate. For example, the launch permission circuit 89b may be able to output the launch permission signal even if an error signal indicating that a predetermined error has been detected is input. That is, the pachinko game machine 10 may be able to execute game ball launch control even when an abnormal supply error or an abnormal transfer error is detected.

- The conditions for setting the specific control state may be changed as appropriate. For example, the frame CPU 81 may be set to a specific control state upon completion of the supply operation.
- The conditions for ending the specific control state may be changed as appropriate. For example, the frame CPU 81 may not terminate the specific control state when the supply outlet sensor D23 detects a game ball. That is, the frame CPU 81 is triggered when the fourth time period has elapsed since the specific control state was set, regardless of whether or not a game ball was detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 while the specific control state was set. The specific control state may be ended as follows. Further, the fourth time may be changed as appropriate. For example, the fourth time may be longer or shorter than the time from when the firing control circuit 91 outputs the subtraction reference signal until it starts the firing operation. At this time, the fourth time is preferably shorter than the time required for at least one firing sequence.

- The frame CPU 81 may set a subtraction limit period separately from the specific control state. In this case, the period to be set as the subtraction restriction period can be selected as appropriate. For example, the frame CPU 81 may set a predetermined period after the start of the supply operation in the firing sequence as the subtraction restriction period even if the specific control state ends.

- When the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period, the frame CPU 81 may not execute the pitch count transfer process and may not store the specific operation information in the counting switch pressing process. That is, if the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period, the frame CPU 81 may not execute the pitch count transfer process using the operation of the counting switch 18 as a trigger.

- The frame CPU 81 may be able to determine a number of 2 or more as the number of game balls to be transferred from the number of game balls P2 to the number of owned balls P1 in one ball number transfer process. In the following explanation, the number determined as the number of game balls to be transferred from the number of game balls P2 to the number of owned balls P1 in one ball number transfer process will be referred to as the "transfer number". In this case, the number of transferred items may be determined based on the operation mode of the counting switch 18. For example, the frame CPU 81 may increase the number of transferred items in stages according to the length of time that the counting switch 18 is continuously operated. Specifically, if the time period during which the counting switch 18 is continuously operated is less than a first specified time, the frame CPU 81 may determine the first number as the number of transferred items. Further, when the time period during which the counting switch 18 is continuously operated is longer than or equal to the first specified time and less than the second specified time, the frame CPU 81 determines a second number larger than the first number as the number of transfers. You can also do this. Furthermore, if the time period during which the counting switch 18 is continuously operated is longer than the second specified time, the frame CPU 81 may determine a third number larger than the second number as the number of transferred pieces.

- When implemented in a gaming machine that determines the number of transferred pieces according to the length of time that the counting switch 18 is continuously operated, the frame CPU 81 controls the counting switch 18 when the counting switch 18 is continuously operated. The counting switch pressing process may be executed every time the time period during which the counter 18 is continuously operated passes a predetermined time period. In this case, if the specific control state is set when the counting switch 18 has been continuously operated for a predetermined time period, the frame CPU 81 frames the specific operation information without subtracting the number of game balls P2. It is preferable to store it in the RAM 83. Further, when the counting switch 18 is continuously operated, the frame CPU 81 uses the completion of the operation of the counting switch 18 as an opportunity to determine the length of time that the counting switch 18 has been operated, and determines the number of pieces to be transferred. may be determined, and the counting switch pressing process may be executed. In this case, when the frame CPU 81 is set to a specific control state at the time when the operation of the counting switch 18 is completed, it is preferable that the frame CPU 81 stores the specific operation information in the frame RAM 83 without subtracting the number of game balls P2.

- When implementing the pachinko gaming machine 10 that can determine a number of 2 or more as the number of balls to be transferred in one ball number transfer process, the frame CPU 81 executes the ball number transfer process when a number of 2 or more is determined as the number of balls to be transferred. When the number of game balls P2 at the time of execution is less than the number of transferred balls, the number of game balls P2 may not be subtracted in the number of balls transfer process. In other words, when the counting switch 18 is operated during the subtraction restriction period and the number of game balls P2 is less than or equal to the transfer number, the frame CPU 81 calculates the number of balls to be executed upon the arrival of the subtraction permission period. In the transfer process, the number of game balls P2 may not be subtracted. In this example, the number of transferred items corresponds to the special number.

- When implementing the pachinko gaming machine 10 that can determine a number of 2 or more as the number of balls to be transferred in one ball number transfer process, the frame CPU 81 executes the ball number transfer process when a number of 2 or more is determined as the number of balls to be transferred. When the number of game balls P2 at the time of execution is less than the number of transferred balls, the number of game balls P2 may be subtracted to "0". In this example, the number of transferred items corresponds to the special number.

- In the supply subtraction process, the frame CPU 81 may subtract 1 from the number of game balls P2 even if the specific control state is not set. That is, if a game ball is detected by the supply outlet sensor D23 when the specific control state is not set, the frame CPU 81 subtracts 1 from the number of game balls P2 in the supply subtraction process, and then stores the abnormal supply error information. You may also do so.

- The frame CPU 81 determines whether or not game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply entrance signal output from the supply entrance sensor D22 instead of the supply exit signal output from the supply exit sensor D23. It may be determined whether the For example, the frame CPU 81 may determine that one game ball has been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 when the supply entrance signal transitions from the off state to the on state to the off state. In addition to the supply exit signal output from the supply exit sensor D23, the frame CPU 81 also determines whether game balls have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the firing device 50 based on the supply entrance signal output from the supply entrance sensor D22. It may be determined whether or not. For example, when the supply exit signal transitions from the OFF state to the ON state to the OFF state, and the supply entrance signal transitions from the OFF state to the ON state to the OFF state, the frame CPU 81 controls one game ball. may be determined to have been supplied from the supply device 40 to the launch device 50.

- The frame CPU 81 may be controlled not to perform error notification even if an abnormal transfer error or an abnormal supply error is detected.
- The frame RAM 83 may be configured to store and hold specific control information by receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89 when power supply from the outside is cut off. In this case, the frame CPU 81 may be set to a specific control state after power supply is resumed.

- The frame CPU 81 may store and hold the specific operation information by receiving backup power from the backup power supply 89 when the power supply from the outside is cut off. In this case, the frame CPU 81 subtracts the number of game balls P2 by executing the ball number transfer process when the power supply is restarted or when the subtraction permission period has arrived after the power supply is restarted. You may also do so.

- The frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) and the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) are designed not to continue the launch sequence after the power supply is cut off, when the external power supply is cut off during the launch sequence. You can. For example, the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) controls the supply solenoid 43 to turn off when the power supply is cut off, and operates the supply solenoid 43 at least until the power supply is resumed. It is also possible to wait without waiting. Similarly, the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) controls the launch solenoid 53 to turn off when the power supply is cut off, and at least controls the launch solenoid 53 until the power supply is resumed. It is also possible to wait without operating. Further, when the power supply is cut off, the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) stops the operation of the supply solenoid 43 regardless of the state of the supply solenoid 43 at that time, and also indicates that the power supply has been resumed. As a trigger, the supply solenoid 43 may be controlled to be in the OFF state. Similarly, when the power supply is cut off, the launch control board 90 (launch control circuit 91) stops the operation of the launch solenoid 53 regardless of the state of the launch solenoid 53 at that time, and restarts the power supply. Taking this as an opportunity, the firing solenoid 53 may be controlled to be in the OFF state.

- Even if the power supply from the outside is cut off during the firing sequence, the frame control board 80 (frame CPU 81) receives backup power from the backup power supply 89, and the supply outlet sensor D23 allows the frame control board 80 to continue playing the game. The supply subtraction process may be executed when a ball is detected. That is, even if the power supply from the outside is cut off during the firing sequence, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can complete the firing sequence in progress, and the game ball supply operation in the firing sequence can be completed. It may be configured such that the number of game balls P2 can be subtracted based on.

- In this embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 10 equipped with a variable probability function has a specification that provides a high probability state until the next jackpot game, a specification that provides a high probability state until winning the falling lottery (so-called falling machine), Alternatively, a specification (so-called ST machine) can be adopted in which a high probability state is given until a specified number of variable games are completed. Further, as the pachinko game machine 10 equipped with a probability variation function, it is possible to adopt a specification (so-called V probability variation machine) that provides a high probability state on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area. The pachinko game machine 10 may have a specification that is a mixture of the specifications of a falling machine and the specifications of a V-probability changing machine.

- In addition to the jackpot lottery, the special symbol winning lottery may be configured to perform a small winning lottery. If a small win is won in the winning lottery, a small win game (win game) will be awarded after the special game ends. In this embodiment, the number of times (frequency) of winning small winnings per unit time, or the number of small winning games being awarded per unit time, compared to a normal gaming state (for example, a low probability low ball entry rate state) It may be configured to be controllable to a state in which the number of times (frequency) of winnings is increased (so-called small hit RUSH).

- The pachinko game machine 10 may adopt specifications classified into the second type, which is also called a "feather type" or "plane type." In this type of pachinko game machine, when a game ball enters the starting hole, the opening/closing blade (opening/closing member) of the ball entering device (big prize hole) opens, and the game ball that enters the ball entering device wins a special prize. A jackpot game occurs when the ball enters the mouth.

- The main CPU 61, main ROM 62, main RAM 63, and random number generation circuit 64 may be configured on one chip.
- The production control board 70 is used as a sub-integration control board, and separately from the production control board 70, a display control board that exclusively controls the production display device 19, a light emission control board that exclusively controls the production light emitting device 14, and a production audio device 12 are installed. A sound control board for specialized control may be provided. The sub-board may include such a sub-integration control board and a board for controlling other effects. Further, in the embodiment, the main CPU 61 and the effect CPU 71 may be mounted on a single board. Further, the display control board, the light emission control board, and the sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single board or a plurality of boards.

・Although it is configured as a gaming machine that circulates a predetermined amount of gaming media (game balls as an example), it is not limited to this, and some or all of the gaming media can be exchanged with gaming media located outside the gaming machine. It may be a configuration.

The technical ideas that can be understood from this embodiment and modified examples will be described.
(a) The subtraction permission state is set with the start of the supply operation.
(b) In the firing control, the firing operation is performed after the supplying operation is performed.

(c) An error notifying means for notifying an error is provided, and the error notifying means notifies the error when a gaming ball is detected by the supply detecting means when the subtraction permission state is not in progress.

(d) The subtraction permission state also ends when a game ball is detected by the supply detection means.

CL...center line D01...touch sensor D02...firing stop switch D03...handle volume D11...first starting sensor D12...second starting sensor D13...count sensor D14...normal sensor D15...gate sensor D21...foul sensor D22...supply inlet sensor D23... Supply exit sensor (supply detection means) D25... Winning passage count sensor D26... Non-winning passage counting sensor D28... Lifting entrance sensor D29... Lifting exit sensor D30... Out sensor ES... Performance device group K... Game ball P1... Number of pitches held P2...Number of game balls P3...Number of pitches lent P4...Number of pitches acquired P5...Number of balls fired P6...Number of foul balls SL1...Normal solenoid SL2...Special solenoid 10...Pachinko game machine 11...Frame 11a...Outer frame 11b... Mounting frame 11c...Protection frame 11d...Lock device 12...Production sound device (error notification means) 13...Notification sound device (error notification means) 14...Production light emitting device (error notification means) 15...Fire handle 15a...Handle lever 15b... Energizing ring 15c...Fire stop button 17...Game ball number display device 18...Counting switch (specific operation means) 18a...Counting lamp 19...Effect display device (error notification means) 19a...Image display area 20...Game board 20a...Game area 20b...Display window 20c...Ejection passage 20f...Fail passage 21...Main display device (error notification means) 21a...First special symbol display device 21b...Second special symbol display device 21c...First reservation display device 21d...Second reservation Display device 21e... Normal symbol display device 21f... Normal reservation display device 23... First starting port 24... Second starting port 24a... Normal opening/closing piece 25... Big winning opening 25a... Special opening/closing piece 27... Normal winning opening 28... Gate 28a ...Gate entrance 29...Out port 30...Collection passage 31...Winning passage 32...Non-winning passage 33a...First merging section 33b...Second merging section 34...Specific passage 36...Lifting mechanism 40...Supplying device (supplying mechanism) 41 ...Reception part 41a...Reception passage 42...Movable piece 42a...Holding part 42P1...Stop position 42P2...Supply position 43...Supply solenoid 44...Supply part 44a...Supply passage 50...Emission device (launch mechanism) 51...Emission part 51a...Emission Position 52... Firing hammer 52a... Rotating shaft 52b... Ball hitting part 52P1... Ball hitting position 52P2... Retreat position 53... Firing solenoid 55... Receiving part 55a... Receiving space 56... Foul passage part 60... Main control board 61... Main CPU 62... Main ROM 63... Main RAM 64... Random number generation circuit 70... Effect control board 71... Effect CPU 72... Effect ROM 73... Effect RAM 80... Frame control board 81... Frame CPU (control means, error detection means) 82... Frame ROM 83 ... Frame RAM (storage means) 84 ... Performance display monitor (error notification means) 85 ... Ball removal switch 86 ... Error release switch 87 ... Game ball clear switch 88 ... RAM clear switch 89 ... Backup power supply 89a ... Backup circuit 89b ... Launch permission Circuit 90... Launch control board 91... Launch control circuit (control means) 98... Connection terminal board 99... Power supply unit 99a... Main switch 100... Card unit 101... Card insertion section 102... Bill insertion section 104... Operation panel 104a... Ball rental Button 104b...Payout button 104c...Return button 104d...Ball count display section 104e...Remaining amount display section 105...CU control board 105a...CU control CPU 105b...CU control ROM 105c...CU control RAM 105d...Communication terminal 110...Hall computer

Claims (3)

a firing mechanism that performs a firing operation to fire a game ball;
a supply mechanism that performs a supply operation of supplying game balls to the firing mechanism;
Supply detection means for detecting game balls supplied from the supply mechanism to the launch mechanism;
a control means for performing predetermined control;
A storage means for storing the number of game balls as data,
The control means includes:
It is possible to perform firing control that causes at least the supplying operation by the supplying mechanism and the firing operation by the firing mechanism, and also to set a subtraction permission state during the firing control,
While subtracting the number of game balls stored as the data, triggered by the detection of game balls by the supply detection means during the subtraction permission state,
The number of game balls stored as the data is not subtracted when a game ball is detected by the supply detection means when the subtraction permission state is not in progress.
A gaming machine characterized in that the subtraction permission state can be set over a specific period. The length of time during which the subtraction permission state is set may differ depending on whether the launch control is performed once or when the launch control is performed a second time following the first launch control. The gaming machine according to claim 1. Equipped with error detection means for detecting errors,
3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control means does not execute the firing control when a specific error is detected by the error detection means.

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