JP7685259B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to gaming machines.

Conventionally, gaming machines capable of electronically managing gaming media are known (for example, see Patent Document 1). A player can play games using digitized gaming media. The digitized gaming media can be transferred to a management device outside the gaming machine based on a predetermined operation (so-called counting operation). The management device typically writes information about the gaming media transferred from the gaming machine (the number of gaming media) to a card-type or coin-type management medium.

JP 2013-162817 A

In recent years, it is expected that the manner in which gaming media is transferred to the management device will be further improved to increase convenience for players.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem includes a management means for electronically managing gaming media that can be used for gaming, an operation means operable by a player, a control means for executing control related to the transfer of the gaming media, and a notification means, and the control modes related to the transfer of the gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode, and in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a first operation using the operation means, and in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine even without the first operation, and in a situation in which a predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in the second control mode, the notification means recognizes that the control has been changed to the second control mode. The gist of the invention is that a possible control notification is made , the control notification can be executed even during the execution of a jackpot presentation executed during jackpot play, when in the first control mode, the control can be made to the second control mode in response to a second operation using the operating means, and when in the second control mode, the control can be made to the first control mode in response to a third operation using the operating means, the first operation and the second operation are operations for operating the operating means for a longer period of time than the third operation, and when controlled to the first control mode in response to the third operation using the operating means, if operation of the operating means is continued after being controlled to the first control mode, the control will not be made to the second control mode .

The present invention can improve convenience for players.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the number of balls to be counted according to the operation mode of the counting switch. FIG. 6 is a timing chart for explaining input/output processing of the frame control board. FIG. 7 is a timing chart for explaining the transition of the number of gaming balls managed by the gaming machine. FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the automatic counting function. FIG. 9 is a timing chart for explaining the automatic counting function. FIG. 10 is a timing chart for explaining the automatic counting function. FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the automatic counting function in the modified example.

An example of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
1, an island facility (not shown) can accommodate a plurality of gaming machines 10. The gaming machines 10 are pachinko gaming machines. A management device 90 is provided for each of the gaming machines 10. In the island facility, the gaming machines 10 and the management devices 90 are arranged alternately.

The management device 90 will now be described.
The management device 90 includes a medium insertion section 91 into which a card-type or coin-type management medium (not shown) can be inserted. The management medium can store the remaining amount of money deposited and the number of gaming media P1. The number of gaming media P1 is the number of gaming media owned by the player. The gaming medium is a value that can be used for playing on the gaming machine 10. As an example, the gaming medium is gaming balls. The management device 90 includes a cash insertion section 92 into which cash can be inserted. The amount deposited into the cash insertion section 92 is stored in the management medium.

The management device 90 is provided with an operation panel 93 that can be operated by the player. As an example, the operation panel 93 is provided with a ball lending operation section, a payout operation section, a return operation section, a holding number display section, and a remaining amount display section. The ball lending operation section is operated when increasing the number of gaming media P2 managed by the gaming machine 10 based on the remaining amount stored in the management medium. The number of gaming media P2 indicates the quantity of gaming media owned by the player. The payout operation section is operated when increasing the number of gaming media P2 based on the number of gaming media P1. The return operation section is operated when receiving the return of the managed medium. The holding number display section displays the number of gaming media P1. Each of the numbers of gaming media P1 and P2 indicates the number of gaming media managed electronically. The remaining amount display section displays the remaining amount of the payment.

The management device 90 includes a management unit control board 95. The management unit control board 95 includes a CPU 95a and a memory 95b. The CPU 95a executes a management unit control program to perform a predetermined process. The memory 95b stores the management unit control program. The memory 95b stores various information that is rewritten during operation of the management device 90.

The management device 90 includes a communication terminal 95d. The management unit control board 95 is connected to the gaming machine 10 via the communication terminal 95d. The management unit control board 95 is configured to be able to input various control information output by the gaming machine 10. The CPU 95a outputs a connection signal to the gaming machine 10 as an example of various control information.

The management device 90 is equipped with an external communication terminal (not shown) for connecting to an external device. As an example, the external device (not shown) may be a hall computer installed in the amusement facility. The external device may be a management computer capable of communicating with server equipment installed in a data center outside the amusement facility via a network. In this case, it is preferable that the management computer and the management device 90 are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

The process executed by the management device 90 will now be described.
When a management medium is inserted into the medium insertion section 91, the CPU 95a of the management unit control board 95 reads out the remaining amount stored in the management medium and the number of game media P1. The CPU 95a adds the amount inserted into the cash insertion section 92 to the remaining amount. When the remaining amount is not 0 and the ball lending operation section is operated, the CPU 95a subtracts a prescribed amount from the remaining amount stored in the management medium, and outputs to the gaming machine 10 grant information capable of specifying the grant of a number of game media corresponding to the prescribed amount.

When the number of gaming media P1 is 1 or more, and the payout operation unit is operated, the CPU 95a subtracts a predetermined number from the number of gaming media P1 stored in the managed medium, and outputs grant information that can identify the grant of the predetermined number of gaming media to the gaming machine 10. When the CPU 95a inputs counting information from the gaming machine 10, it adds the number of gaming media that can be identified from the counting information to the number of gaming media P1 stored in the managed medium. The CPU 95a controls the number of owned numbers display unit to display the number of gaming media P1 at that time. The CPU 95a controls the balance display unit to display the balance at that time. When the return operation unit is operated, the CPU 95a ejects the managed medium from the media insertion unit 91.

The gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, as an example, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to electronically manage gaming balls. As an example, the gaming machine 10 is configured to circulate a predetermined number of gaming balls inside the machine. Not limited to this, the gaming machine 10 may be a non-circulating gaming machine. The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be able to receive a supply of gaming balls from an island facility (not shown) and return gaming balls to the island facility. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to manage the number of gaming media P2.

The gaming machine 10 comprises a frame 11 and a gaming board 20 held by the frame 11. The gaming board 20 has a gaming area 21a where gaming balls flow down. The frame 11 will be described. The frame 11 comprises an outer frame 12, a middle frame 13, and a front frame 14. The outer frame 12 is fixed to the island equipment using nails or the like. The middle frame 13 holds the gaming board 20. The front frame 14 has a protective glass 14a. The protective glass 14a seals the opening 14b of the front frame 14. The protective glass 14a covers the gaming area 21a of the gaming board 20. The middle frame 13 is supported so that it can be opened and closed relative to the outer frame 12. The front frame 14 is supported so that it can be opened and closed relative to the middle frame 13. The frame 11 comprises a locking device 11A. The locking device 11A can be locked and unlocked using a suitable key. The middle frame 13 can be opened relative to the outer frame 12 when the locking device 11A is unlocked. The front frame 14 can be opened relative to the middle frame 13 when the locking device 11A is unlocked.

The frame 11 is equipped with a firing operation unit 15. The firing operation unit 15 is configured to enable an operation to fire a game ball. As an example, the firing operation unit 15 is provided on the front side of the middle frame 13. As an example, the firing operation unit 15 is a handle type. The gaming machine 10 is configured to shoot game balls with a firing strength corresponding to the amount of operation of the firing operation unit 15. As an example, the firing operation unit 15 is equipped with a handle lever that can be rotated, a touch sensor D01, a firing stop switch D02, and a handle volume D03 (see FIG. 3). The touch sensor D01 outputs a touch signal when the player's finger touches an electric ring (not shown). The firing stop switch D02 outputs a stop signal when a firing stop button protruding to the side of the firing operation unit 15 is pressed. When the handle lever is rotated, the handle volume D03 outputs a volume signal of a voltage corresponding to the amount of rotation.

The frame 11 is provided with a gaming media number display unit 16a capable of displaying the number of gaming media P2. As an example, the gaming media number display unit 16a is provided on the front side of the front frame 14. The gaming media number display unit 16a is an example of a display means for displaying the number of gaming media P2. The gaming media number display unit 16a may be capable of executing a predetermined notification. The frame 11 is provided with a counting switch 16b. As an example, the counting switch 16b is provided on the front side of the front frame 14. The counting operation is permitted when the counting switch 16b is in a predetermined countable state. The counting switch 16b outputs a counting signal when a counting operation is performed. The counting switch 16b is an example of an operation means that can be operated by a player. The frame 11 is provided with a counting notification unit 16c. As an example, the counting notification unit 16c is provided on the front side of the front frame 14. As an example, the count notification unit 16c notifies whether or not counting is possible by turning the light on and off, etc.

The frame 11 is equipped with an audio production device 17, an example of which is a speaker. As an example, the audio production device 17 is disposed on the front side of the front frame 14. The audio production device 17 can execute a production that outputs a predetermined audio (hereinafter referred to as an audio production). The audio production device 17 can execute an announcement that outputs a predetermined audio (hereinafter referred to as an audio announcement). For example, the predetermined audio is a piece of music, a sound effect, or the voice of a person reading a predetermined character string.

The frame 11 is equipped with a light-emitting performance device 18. The light-emitting performance device 18 can perform a performance (hereinafter referred to as a light-emitting performance) by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing a light-emitting body (not shown), such as an LED. The light-emitting performance device 18 can perform an alert (hereinafter referred to as a light-emitting alert) by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing a light-emitting body (not shown). As an example, the light-emitting performance device 18 is disposed on the front side of the front frame 14. Without being limited to this, the light-emitting performance device 18 may be disposed on the game board 20 instead of or in addition to the frame 11.

The frame 11 is equipped with a presentation operation unit 22 that can be operated by the player. As an example, the presentation operation unit 22 is a button-type operation device configured to allow a push operation. Without being limited to this, the presentation operation unit 22 may be a lever-type operation device configured to allow a push operation or a pull operation, or may be a pistol-type or joystick-type operation device.

The frame 11 is equipped with a radio wave sensor D16 that detects radio waves exceeding a predetermined strength as abnormal radio waves (see FIG. 3). When the radio wave sensor D16 detects abnormal radio waves, it outputs a radio wave detection signal. In addition to the radio wave sensor D16 in the middle frame 13, the game board 20 may be equipped with a radio wave sensor and configured to be able to detect abnormal radio waves on the game board 20. The gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a magnetic sensor in one or both of the middle frame 13 and the game board 20 and configured to be able to detect the approach of a magnet.

The frame 11 is equipped with a first door opening switch D17 that detects that the front frame 14 is open relative to the middle frame 13 (see FIG. 3). The first door opening switch D17 outputs a first door opening signal when it detects that the front frame 14 is open. The middle frame 13 is equipped with a second door opening switch D18 that detects that the middle frame 13 is open relative to the outer frame 12 (see FIG. 3). The second door opening switch D18 outputs a second door opening signal when it detects that the middle frame 13 is open.

The frame 11 includes a frame control board 82 and a launch control board 83. The frame control board 82 and the launch control board 83 are fixed to the rear side of the middle frame 13. That is, each control board 82, 83 is mounted on the frame 11. Each control board 82, 83 is located in a position that cannot be accessed unless the locking device 11A is unlocked and the middle frame 13 is opened. The electrical configuration of each control board 82, 83 will be described later. The frame 11 includes a power supply unit 89. The power supply unit 89 is fixed to the rear side of the middle frame 13. The power supply unit 89 is located in a position that cannot be accessed unless the locking device 11A is unlocked and the middle frame 13 is opened.

The frame 11 is provided with a distribution mechanism 40 for game balls.
2 , the game ball distribution mechanism 40 includes a collection mechanism 41, a circulation mechanism 42, and a launch mechanism 43. As an example, the collection mechanism 41, the circulation mechanism 42, and the launch mechanism 43 are provided in the middle frame 13. The operations of the collection mechanism 41, the circulation mechanism 42, and the launch mechanism 43 are controlled by a frame control board 82 and a launch control board 83.

The collection mechanism 41 guides the game balls discharged from the game board 20 to the circulation mechanism 42. The collection mechanism 41 is composed of a combination of passages that extend downward or that incline downward. As shown by the arrows Y1 and Y2, when a game ball is received by the collection mechanism 41 from the game board 20, the game ball reaches the circulation mechanism 42 by flowing down the passages that constitute the collection mechanism 41. The circulation mechanism 42 transports the game balls received from the collection mechanism 41 in a predetermined direction. As an example, the circulation mechanism 42 lifts the game balls. The circulation mechanism 42 includes a transport section 42A that transports the game balls. The transport section 42A includes a transport passage that extends along a predetermined direction, a screw housed in the transport passage, and a transport motor 42a that rotates the screw (see FIG. 3). As shown by the arrow Y3, the game balls transported by the circulation mechanism 42 reach the launch mechanism 43.

As shown by the arrow Y4, the launch mechanism 43 can launch the game balls transported by the circulation mechanism 42 so that they reach the game area 21a of the game board 20. The launch mechanism 43 performs an operation for launching the game balls. As an example, the launch mechanism 43 includes a supply unit 43A that performs a supply operation to supply game balls, and a striking unit 43B that performs a striking operation (launching operation) to strike out the game balls supplied from the supply unit 43A. The supply unit 43A supplies the game balls transported by the transport unit 42A to the striking unit 43B by cutting them out one by one. The supply unit 43A has a supply member (movable piece) configured to be able to perform the operation of supplying game balls one by one, a supply solenoid 43a that drives the supply member, and a supply sensor D19 that detects the game balls to be supplied (see FIG. 3). The game balls dispensed one by one from the supply unit 43A flow into the striking position of the striking unit 43B. As an example, the supply sensor D19 detects the game balls upstream of the supply member (the circulation mechanism 42). When the supply sensor D19 detects a game ball, it outputs a supply signal. The striking unit 43B strikes the game balls that have flowed into the striking position toward the play area 21a. The striking unit 43B has a firing hammer that strikes the game balls at the striking position, and a firing solenoid 43b that drives the firing hammer (see FIG. 3).

The flow of game balls in the distribution mechanism 40 will be described. As shown by the arrow Y4, the game ball is launched by the launching section 43B of the launch mechanism 43. The game ball can reach the game area 21a. When the game ball reaches the game area 21a, it enters the winning hole or the out hole that opens in the game area 21a. As shown by the arrow Y1, the game ball is discharged from an outlet (not shown) formed in the game board 20 to the collection mechanism 41. Game balls that are launched by the launch mechanism 43 but do not reach the game area 21a (so-called foul balls) also flow into the collection mechanism 41. As shown by the arrow Y2, the game ball passes through the collection mechanism 41 and reaches the circulation mechanism 42. The game ball is transported by the circulation mechanism 42. As shown by the arrow Y3, the game ball returns to the launch mechanism 43 and is launched again.

The game board 20 will now be described.
The game board 20 has a display presentation device 19, a game control board 80, and a presentation control board 81. The display presentation device 19, the game control board 80, and the presentation control board 81 are provided on the rear part of the game board 20. In other words, the display presentation device 19, the game control board 80, and the presentation control board 81 are mounted on the game board 20.

The game board 20 has a square-shaped game board 21. A game area 21a that is approximately circular when viewed from the front is defined on the front of the game board 21. Nails, windmills, and the like are arranged in the game area 21a. A display window 21b is formed in approximately the center of the game area 21a, penetrating the game board 21 in the front-to-rear direction. A shot passage 21c is formed to the left of the game area 21a, which guides game balls shot by operating the shot operation unit 15 to the game area 21a. The game area 21a and the shot passage 21c are covered by protective glass 14a.

The game board 20 is equipped with an information display device 30 .
As an example, the information display device 30 is provided on the game board 20. The information display device 30 displays various information. As an example, the information display device 30 includes a first special symbol display section 31, a second special symbol display section 32, a first hold display section 33, a second hold display section 34, a normal symbol display section 35, and a normal hold display section 36. As an example, the display sections 31 to 36 are arranged together in a portion of the game board 20 that is visible to the player, but this is not limited thereto, and some or all of them may be arranged in different portions.

The special symbol display units 31 and 32 can execute a special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as a special game) in which a predetermined symbol is changed and finally a special symbol is stopped and displayed. The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of an internal lottery (a lottery for a special symbol). The special symbol includes a big win symbol and a losing symbol. The special symbol may include a small win symbol. In the gaming machine 10, when a big win is won in the lottery for a special symbol, the big win symbol is stopped and displayed in a special game, and a big win game is awarded after the special game for the big win ends. The big win game will be described later. In the following description, the special game executed in the first special symbol display unit 31 is referred to as the "first special game", and the special game executed in the second special symbol display unit 32 is referred to as the "second special game".

The first pending display unit 33 displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the pending conditions have been met but the starting conditions have not yet been met (hereafter referred to as the first pending number). The second pending display unit 34 displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the pending conditions have been met but the starting conditions have not yet been met (hereafter referred to as the second pending number).

The normal symbol display unit 35 is capable of executing a normal game in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally a normal symbol is displayed stationarily. The normal symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (a lottery for a winning normal symbol). There are normal winning symbols and normal losing symbols. In the gaming machine 10, when a normal winning symbol is won in the lottery for a winning normal symbol, the normal winning symbol is displayed stationarily in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the end of the normal game.

The regular hold display unit 36 displays information that can identify the number of regular games whose execution is on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the start conditions have not yet been met. The information display device 30 may include a right-hit display unit that displays information instructing a right hit, and a round display unit that notifies the player of the upper limit of the number of rounds that can be played.

The game board 20 is formed with a plurality of winning holes 23. The plurality of winning holes 23 open into the game area 21a so that game balls can enter. The plurality of winning holes 23 include a first start hole 23A, a second start hole 23B, a big winning hole 23C, and a normal winning hole 23D. The plurality of winning holes may include winning holes different from these winning holes 23.

The first start opening 23A is a winning opening through which a game ball is inserted to satisfy the conditions for awarding prize balls and the reservation conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first start opening 23A is located below the display and performance device 19. The first start opening 23A is always open so that game balls can be inserted. The game board 20 is equipped with a first start sensor D11 as a winning sensor that detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 23A (see FIG. 3).

The second starting hole 23B is a winning hole through which a game ball is inserted to satisfy the conditions for awarding a prize ball and the reservation conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second starting hole 23B is located to the right of the first starting hole 23A. The second starting hole 23B is provided with a normal opening and closing piece 23Ba, which is, for example, in the form of a door. When a normal winning game is not awarded, the second starting hole 23B is closed so that a game ball cannot be inserted or is difficult to insert. When a normal winning game is awarded, the second starting hole 23B is opened so that a game ball can be inserted or is easy to insert. The game board 20 is provided with a normal solenoid SL1 as a means for opening the second starting hole 23B (see FIG. 3). The game board 20 is also provided with a second starting sensor D12 as a winning sensor for detecting a game ball that has entered the second starting hole 23B (see FIG. 3). The normal opening and closing piece 23Ba is what is known as a "normal electric device."

The big prize opening 23C is an opening through which the game balls enter in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize balls. As an example, the big prize opening 23C is located at the lower right of the display device 19. The big prize opening 23C is provided with a special opening/closing piece 23Ca, which is, for example, in the form of a door. When a big prize game is not awarded, the big prize opening 23C is closed so that game balls cannot enter or are difficult to enter. When a big prize game is awarded, the big prize opening 23C is opened so that game balls can enter or are easy to enter. The game board 20 is provided with a special solenoid SL2 as a means for opening the big prize opening 23C (see FIG. 3). The game board 20 is also provided with a count sensor D13 as a winning sensor for detecting game balls that have entered the big prize opening 23C (see FIG. 3).

The normal winning opening 23D is a winning opening through which game balls enter in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the normal winning opening 23D is located at the lower left of the display and performance device 19 and at the lower right of the display and performance device 19. The normal winning opening 23D is always open so that game balls can enter. The game board 20 is equipped with a normal sensor D14 as a winning sensor that detects game balls that enter the normal winning opening 23D (see Figure 3).

The game board 20 has a gate 24. As an example, the gate 24 is located in the right area of the game area 21a, above the second start opening 23B and the big prize opening 23C. The gate 24 has a gate opening 24a formed therein. The gate opening 24a is always open so that game balls can enter the gate. The gate 24 has a gate sensor D15 as a prize sensor that detects game balls that have entered the gate opening 24a (see FIG. 3). The gate 24 is an entry opening through which game balls are allowed to enter in order to establish the starting conditions for the normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate 24, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not established.

An outlet 25 is formed on the game board 20. As an example, the outlet 25 opens at the bottom of the game area 21a. If a game ball does not enter any of the first start opening 23A, the second start opening 23B, the big prize opening 23C, and the normal prize opening 23D, the game ball enters the outlet 25. The multiple prize openings 23 and the outlet 25 can be understood as outlets for discharging game balls from the game area 21a, or as return openings for returning game balls from the game area 21a. When a game ball enters the multiple prize openings 23 or the outlet 25, it is discharged from an outlet (not shown) of the game board 20. A game ball discharged from the game area 21a of the game board 20 is a so-called "out ball."

The display performance device 19 will be described.
The display and effect device 19 has an image display area 19a capable of displaying an image. The display and effect device 19 is attached to the rear surface of the game board 21 so that the image display area 19a can be viewed through a display window 21b. As an example, the display and effect device 19 is a liquid crystal display. The display and effect device 19 can execute an effect (hereinafter, referred to as a display effect) in which a predetermined image is displayed. The display and effect device 19 can execute an announcement (hereinafter, referred to as a display announcement) in which a predetermined image is displayed. For example, the predetermined image is an image such as an effect pattern, a character, a landscape, a letter (character string), a number, and a symbol. In the following description, when the effect pattern, character, etc. are simply referred to as "displaying", it means that the character, etc. is displayed as an image.

The audio performance device 17, the light-emitting performance device 18, and the display performance device 19 constitute the performance equipment ES, which is an example of a performance execution means that executes a specified performance (see FIG. 1). The audio performance device 17, the light-emitting performance device 18, and the display performance device 19 can all execute a specified notification. Thus, the performance equipment ES is an example of a notification means that can issue a specified notification. The notification means is also used as a performance execution means that can execute a specified performance. The performance devices included in the performance equipment ES are not limited to the audio performance device 17, the light-emitting performance device 18, and the display performance device 19, and may be configured with some of these performance devices omitted. In addition to these performance devices, or instead of one or more of them that can be selected arbitrarily, the performance equipment ES may include a movable performance device that executes a movable performance, and may include a vibration performance device that executes a vibration performance.

The display effects by the display effect device 19 include an effect pattern change game (hereinafter referred to as the effect game) using multiple rows of effect patterns. In the effect game, multiple rows of effect patterns are displayed in a changeable manner, and finally a combination of effect patterns (hereinafter referred to as the pattern combination) is displayed in a stopped manner. The effect patterns are patterns decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are used to diversify the display effects. As an example, the effect game is performed by changing (scrolling) the effect patterns of the left pattern row, the center pattern row, and the right pattern row in a predetermined direction. The effect game may include a reach effect that is performed by forming a reach. The effect game is started together with the special game and ended together with the special game. In the effect game, a pattern combination corresponding to the special pattern displayed in the special game is displayed in a stopped manner. When a jackpot pattern is displayed in a special game, a jackpot pattern combination is displayed in a stopped manner in the effect game. When a losing pattern is displayed in a special game, a losing pattern combination is displayed in a stopped manner in the effect game. In the following description, the special game and the presentation game that is executed together with the special game are collectively referred to as the "variable game." In this way, the display presentation device 19 that constitutes the presentation device ES can execute a variable display of symbols. The special symbol display units 31, 32 and the display presentation device 19 are an example of a means for executing a variable game.

We will explain about jackpot games.
In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter, referred to as the opening time). For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that allows the start of the jackpot game to be recognized. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the large prize winning hole 23C 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 enters, or a time condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. In the round game, the large prize winning hole 23C is opened in a predetermined opening mode (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 the ending time). For example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that allows the end of the jackpot game to be recognized. The jackpot game ends with the ending time having elapsed.

The functions of the gaming machine 10 will now be described.
The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a probability fluctuation function (hereinafter referred to as the probability fluctuation function).
The probability variation function is a function for varying the probability of winning a jackpot in a special pattern winning lottery (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot probability). The gaming machine 10 has two states in which the jackpot probability can differ: a low probability state in which the probability variation function does not operate, and a high probability state in which the probability variation function operates. The high probability state has a higher jackpot probability than the low probability state. In the high probability state, the jackpot probability is higher than in the low probability state, making it an advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is what is known as a "probability variation state (probability variation state)."

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a ball entry assistance function.
The ball entry assist function is a function for varying the ball entry rate into the second starting hole 23B. The gaming machine 10 has a low ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function is not activated, and a high ball entry rate state in which the ball entry assist function is activated, as states in which the ball entry rate into the second starting hole 23B can be different. In the high ball entry rate state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting hole 23B is higher than in the low ball entry rate state. In the high ball entry rate state, the probability that the game ball will enter the second starting hole 23B is higher, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 23B, which is an advantageous state for the player (easy ball entry state). The high ball entry rate state is the so-called "electric support state", and the low ball entry rate state is the so-called "non-electric support state".

For example, the high ball entry rate state can be realized by performing one of the three controls described below, which are arbitrarily selected, or by combining multiple controls. The first control is a normal pattern variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the low ball entry rate state. The second control is a normal pattern probability variation control that varies the probability of winning the normal winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than in the low ball entry rate state. The third control is an opening time extension control that makes the total opening time of the second start port 23B in one normal winning game longer than in the low ball entry rate state. The opening time extension control may be at least one of the following: a control that increases the number of times the second start port 23B is opened in one normal winning game compared to the low ball entry rate state, and a control that makes the opening time of the second start port 23B in one normal winning game 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 shortens the fluctuation time of the special game (for example, the average fluctuation time) compared to when the ball is in a low winning rate state. When the special symbol fluctuation time shortening control is performed, the high winning rate state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time shortening state (time shortening state), and the low winning rate state becomes a special symbol non-fluctuation time shortening state (non-time shortening state).

The game state is determined by a combination of whether or not the special chance function is activated and whether or not the ball-scoring assistance function is activated. In the following explanation, a game state that is a low probability state and a low ball-scoring rate state is referred to as a "low probability low ball-scoring rate state," and a game state that is a high probability state and a low ball-scoring rate state is referred to as a "high probability low ball-scoring rate state." In addition, a game state that is a low probability state and a high ball-scoring rate state is referred to as a "low probability high ball-scoring rate state," and a game state that is a high probability state and a high ball-scoring rate state is referred to as a "high probability high ball-scoring rate state."

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a complete function.
The complete function is a function that stops the operation of the gaming machine 10 before the reference number (value) so that the number of balls dispensed from the gaming machine 10 does not exceed the reference number. The operation condition of the complete function is established when the difference ball PC during one day of business reaches an operation reference number (95,000 balls) that is set to a number less than the reference number (100,000 balls as an example). The difference ball PC is the difference between the number of out balls (the number of launched game balls) and the number of safe balls (the number of paid-out game balls). As an example, the difference ball PC may be counted by subtracting 1 from the difference ball PC every time a game ball is launched, and adding the number of prize balls set for the winning hole 23 to the difference ball PC every time a game ball enters the winning hole. As an example, the difference ball PC may be counted by subtracting 1 from the difference ball PC when a game ball is launched when the difference ball PC is 0 or less, or may not be counted by subtracting 1 from the difference ball PC. That is, the difference in balls PC may be the total difference in balls during business hours of one day, or the maximum difference in balls during business hours of one day. The number of out balls may be the number of game balls that have reached the game area 21a, or may be the number of game balls obtained by adding the number of game balls to the number of foul balls.

The electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
3, the gaming machine 10 includes a plurality of control boards. The plurality of control boards include a game control board 80, a performance control board 81, a frame control board 82, and a launch control board 83.

The game control board 80 and the presentation control board 81 are connected so that control information (signals, control commands, telegrams, etc.) can be output in one direction from the game control board 80 to the presentation control board 81. The game control board 80 executes a predetermined process and outputs control information to the presentation control board 81. The presentation control board 81 executes a predetermined process based on the control information input from the game control board 80. The game control board 80 and the frame control board 82 are connected so that control information can be output in both directions. The frame control board 82 and the launch control board 83 are connected so that control information can be output in both directions. The frame control board 82 executes a predetermined process and outputs control information to the game control board 80 and the launch control board 83. The launch control board 83 operates in a predetermined procedure and outputs control information to the frame control board 82. The frame control board 82 of the gaming machine 10 and the management unit control board 95 of the management device 90 are connected via a connection terminal board 88 provided on the gaming machine 10 so that control information can be output in both directions.

The gaming machine 10 includes a power supply unit 89. As an example, the power supply unit 89 is provided on the back side of the middle frame 13. The power supply unit 89 receives power from outside the machine, converts the input voltage to a predetermined voltage, and supplies it to the performance control board 81 and the frame control board 82. The power supplied to the frame control board 82 is further supplied to the game control board 80 and the launch control board 83. The power supply unit 89 supplies power to the supply solenoid 43a, the launch solenoid 43b, various sensors, and switches. The power supply unit 89 includes a main switch 89a. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be powered on by starting the power supply to the power supply unit 89 while the main switch 89a is on, or by turning on the main switch 89a while power is being supplied.

The game control board 80 will now be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 4, the game control board 80 includes a CPU 80a, a ROM 80b, a RAM 80c, and a random number generating circuit 80d. The CPU 80a executes a game control program to execute processing related to the progress of the game. The ROM 80b stores the game control program, judgment values used for various judgments and lotteries, and tables. The ROM 80b stores a plurality of types of variation patterns. The variation pattern is information that can specify the variation time from the start to the end of the special game. The variation pattern is information that can specify the variation content (performance content) of the performance game performed during the execution of the special game. As an example, the variation pattern includes a jackpot variation pattern and a miss variation pattern. As an example, the performance game based on the jackpot variation pattern has a variation content in which a jackpot pattern combination is stopped and displayed after a reach performance. As an example, an effect game based on a losing variation pattern has variation content in which a losing symbol combination is stopped and displayed ultimately through a reach effect or without a reach effect.

RAM 80c stores various information that is rewritten depending on the processing results of CPU 80a. For example, information stored in RAM 80c includes flags, counters, and timers. RAM 80c is an example of a means capable of storing information. Random number generation circuit 80d generates hardware random numbers. Game control board 80 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by CPU 80a.

The game control board 80 is connected to the first start sensor D11, the second start sensor D12, the count sensor D13, the normal sensor D14, and the gate sensor D15. The CPU 80a can input detection signals output by the sensors D11-D15 when they detect a game ball. The CPU 80a can input radio wave detection signals, first door opening signals, and second door opening signals from the frame control board 82. The game control board 80 is connected to each of the display units 31-36. The CPU 80a can control the display contents of each of the display units 31-36. The game control board 80 is connected to each of the solenoids SL1 and SL2. The CPU 80a can control the opening state of the second start opening 23B and the large prize opening 23C by controlling the operation of each of the solenoids SL1 and SL2.

The performance control board 81 will be explained in detail.
The performance control board 81 includes a CPU 81a, a ROM 81b, and a RAM 81c. The CPU 81a executes a performance control program to perform processing related to the performance. The ROM 81b stores the performance control program and a judgment value used in a predetermined lottery. The ROM 81b stores display performance data used for display performance, light-emitting performance data used for light-emitting performance, and audio performance data used for audio performance. The RAM 81c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 81c includes a flag, a counter, and a timer. The performance control board 81 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers by the random number generation process by the CPU 81a. The performance control board 81 may include a random number generation circuit and be able to generate hardware random numbers.

The performance control board 81 is connected to the display performance device 19. The CPU 81a can control the display contents of the display performance device 19. As an example, the CPU 81a arranges objects on multiple control layers, generates an image by superimposing the control layers, and displays it on the display performance device 19. Priorities are set for each of the multiple control layers. The CPU 81a displays an object arranged on a control layer with a relatively high priority as if it were in front of an object arranged on a control layer with a relatively low priority. Conversely, the CPU 81a displays an object arranged on a control layer with a relatively low priority so that it is hidden behind an object arranged on a control layer with a relatively high priority. The objects include characters, letters (character strings), icons, backgrounds, effects, and symbols.

The performance control board 81 is connected to the audio performance device 17. The CPU 81a can control the output contents of the audio performance device 17. The performance control board 81 is connected to the light-emitting performance device 18. The CPU 81a can control the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting performance device 18. The performance control board 81 is connected to the performance operation unit 22. The CPU 81a can input an operation signal output by the performance operation unit 22 when the performance operation unit 22 is operated.

The frame control board 82 will now be described in detail.
As shown in Fig. 3, the frame control board 82 includes a CPU 82a, a ROM 82b, a RAM 82c, a performance display monitor 82d, a ball removal switch 82e, an error release switch 82f, a game ball clear switch 82g, a RAM clear switch 82h, a backup power supply 82j, a backup circuit 82k, and a launch permission circuit 82m. The CPU 82a executes a frame control program to perform processing related to the operation of the mechanism mounted on the middle frame 13. The ROM 82b stores the frame control program and the like. The RAM 82c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 82c includes flags, counters, and timers.

The performance display monitor 82d displays a base value. The base value is a value indicating the ratio (proportion) of the total number of winning balls during normal play to the total number of valid balls during normal play. Normal play is play when the probability of winning is low and the ball entry rate is low, and no jackpot play is being played. A valid ball is one of the game balls that has been shot from the launch mechanism 43 (shooting section) and has reached the play area 21a. The base value is calculated using the formula "total number of winning balls during normal play ÷ total number of valid balls during normal play × 100".

The ball removal switch 82e is operated to create a state in which game balls inside the machine can be discharged outside the machine (hereinafter referred to as the ball removal state). The ball removal state is a state in which game balls can be discharged from the distribution mechanism 40. The error release switch 82f is operated to release the error setting when a specific error is set. An error is set when an error is detected. The game ball clear switch 82g is operated to initialize the number of game media P2 stored as data in the RAM 82c to 0 (zero). The RAM clear switch 82h is operated to initialize the information stored in the RAM 80c and the information stored in the RAM 82c (hereinafter referred to as RAM clear). The RAM clear switch 82h outputs a RAM clear signal when pressed.

The backup power supply 82j supplies backup power to the RAM 82c of the frame control board 82 and the RAM 80c of the game control board 80 when the power supply from the outside is cut off (hereinafter referred to as power cut). Each RAM 80c, 82c can retain the memory contents of the RAM 80c, 82c at the time of power cut even after the power cut by receiving the backup power. Not limited to this, one or both of the RAMs 80c, 82c may be non-volatile memory, so that the information can be retained even after the power cut. The information to be backed up includes the number of game media P2, game information, and performance information. As an example, the game information is information related to the progress of the game, such as the first reserved number, the second reserved number, and the special pattern. As an example, the game information includes a complete flag, which is information indicating the operation of the complete function. As an example, the performance information is information necessary for calculating the base value. The difference ball PC is not included in the information to be backed up. The difference ball PC is initialized when the power is cut off. The automatic counting flag is not included in the information that is backed up. The automatic counting flag is initialized when the power is turned off. The automatic counting flag will be described later.

When the supply voltage falls below the specified voltage, the backup circuit 82k outputs a power interruption detection signal to the CPU 80a and the CPU 82a. The launch permission circuit 82m is a circuit for outputting a signal (hereinafter referred to as the launch permission signal) to the launch control board 83 that can identify that the launch permission state is in which the launch of the game ball is permitted. The output conditions for the launch permission signal will be described later.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the counting switch 16b. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to input the counting signal output by the counting switch 16b. The frame control board 82 is connected to various sensors and switches such as the radio wave sensor D16, the first door opening switch D17, the second door opening switch D18, and the supply sensor D19. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to input various signals such as the radio wave detection signal, the first door opening signal, and the second door opening signal. When the frame control board 82 inputs the radio wave detection signal, the first door opening signal, the second door opening signal, and the supply signal, it outputs each of these signals to the game control board 80.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the game medium number display unit 16a. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the game medium number display unit 16a. The frame control board 82 is connected to the transport unit 42A (transport motor 42a). The CPU 82a is configured to be able to control the transport operation of the transport unit 42A. The frame control board 82 is connected to the supply unit 43A (supply solenoid 43a). The CPU 82a can displace the supply member (movable piece) and perform the operation of supplying game balls by controlling the supply of electricity to the supply solenoid 43a.

The frame control board 82 is connected to the management device 90. The CPU 82a is configured to be able to input various control information (e.g., telegrams) output by the management unit control board 95. The connection signal output by the management device 90 is input from the connection terminal board 88 to the launch permission circuit 82m without passing through the CPU 82a. The launch permission circuit 82m also receives the launch stop signal output by the game control board 80 and the error signal output by the CPU 82a, etc.

The launch control board 83 will now be described in detail.
The launch control board 83 includes a launch control circuit 83a for controlling the operation of the striking section 43B of the launch mechanism 43. The launch control circuit 83a outputs a drive signal to the launch solenoid 43b based on a control signal input from the frame control board 82 and a signal input from a sensor or switch. The launch control board 83 is connected to the touch sensor D01, the launch stop switch D02, and the handle volume D03. The launch control circuit 83a is configured to be able to input a touch signal, a stop signal, and a volume signal. The launch control board 83 is connected to the launch solenoid 43b. The launch control circuit 83a outputs a drive signal to the launch solenoid 43b, which drives the launch solenoid 43b and causes the launch hammer to strike the game ball.

The launch control circuit 83a has a pulse clock generating unit, an operation determining unit, a delay circuit, a timing pulse generating unit, and a solenoid driving unit. The pulse clock generating unit generates a pulse signal at a predetermined period tb (for example, 600 ms). When the operation enabling condition is satisfied, the operation determining unit outputs an operation signal to the timing pulse generating unit via the delay circuit. When the operation enabling condition is not satisfied, the operation determining unit does not output an operation signal. The operation enabling condition is satisfied when the launch permission signal from the frame control board 82 is in the ON state, the stop signal from the launch stop switch D02 is in the OFF state, and the touch signal from the touch sensor D01 is in the ON state. When the operation determining unit stops outputting the operation signal, it outputs an operation stop signal to the frame control board 82. When the operation stop signal is input, the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) outputs predetermined information (hereinafter referred to as a blank shot generation command) to the game control board 80.

When an operation signal is input to the delay circuit, the delay circuit outputs the operation signal as is to the timing pulse generating unit. The delay circuit is configured to output the operation signal for a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as the specific period ta) even after the operation signal is no longer input. In other words, the delay circuit delays the timing at which the output of the operation signal ends. As an example, the specific period ta is a period twice as long as the generation period tb of the pulse signal by the pulse clock generating unit. Without being limited to this, the specific period ta may be a period the same length as the generation period tb of the pulse signal, or a period more than twice as long.

When the timing pulse generating unit receives an operation signal, it combines the operation signal with the pulse signal received from the pulse clock generating unit, and outputs a firing timing pulse to the solenoid driving unit. Each time the solenoid driving unit receives a firing timing pulse, it supplies a driving current of a voltage corresponding to the volume signal (voltage) received from the handle volume D03 to the firing solenoid 43b as the driving signal. This causes the firing solenoid 43b to be driven with a strength corresponding to the amount of rotation of the handle lever, and the game ball is fired. Therefore, the generation period tb of the pulse signal is the firing period tb of the game ball.

When the operable condition is satisfied, the launch control circuit 83a outputs a subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 82 each time the launch solenoid 43b is driven. When the operable condition is not satisfied, the launch control circuit 83a does not output a subtraction reference signal to the frame control board 82 even if the launch solenoid 43b is driven. On the other hand, when the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 inputs the subtraction reference signal, it controls the current supply to the supply solenoid 43a, displaces the supply member (movable piece), and operates to supply one game ball. As a result, one game ball is cut out from the supply unit 43A and flows into the striking position of the striking unit 43B. As described above, the operation signal is output for a specific period ta even after the operable condition is not satisfied and the subtraction reference signal is no longer output. Therefore, even if the operable condition is not satisfied, the launch solenoid 43b operates once or more in the specific period ta, and so-called "empty shot" can be executed.

The processing executed by the frame control board 82 (CPU 82a) will be described.
The frame side power cut processing will be described.
When the CPU 82a receives the power interruption detection signal output by the backup circuit 82k, it executes the frame side power interruption process. In the frame side power interruption process, the CPU 82a calculates a checksum value of the RAM 82c and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a also stores information (hereinafter, referred to as a backup flag) that can identify that the frame side power interruption process has been executed normally in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a then waits until the power is completely interrupted. The various information stored in the RAM 82c when the power is interrupted is retained even after the power is interrupted by the backup power described above.

The frame side power-on process will now be described.
When the voltage supplied to the frame control board 82 reaches the voltage required for the operation of the CPU 82a upon power-on and the CPU 82a starts up, the CPU 82a judges whether the backed-up information is normal. Specifically, the CPU 82a judges whether a backup flag is stored in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a also calculates a checksum value of the RAM 82c and judges whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the frame-side power-off process. The CPU 82a judges that the information is normal when the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, while judging that the information is abnormal when they do not. If the backed-up information is judged to be abnormal, the CPU 82a initializes the number of game media P2 and game information stored in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a does not initialize the performance information. After that, the CPU 82a returns based on the number of game media P2, game information, and performance information that have been initialized or backed up, and executes the frame-side normal process described later.

On the other hand, if the backed up information is determined to be normal, the CPU 82a determines whether the game ball clear switch 82g has been operated based on whether the game ball clear signal is on. When the game ball clear switch 82g has been operated, the CPU 82a initializes the number of game media P2. The CPU 82a does not initialize the game information and performance information. When the game ball clear switch 82g has not been operated, the CPU 82a does not initialize the number of game media P2. The CPU 82a does not initialize the game information and performance information.

The CPU 82a determines whether the RAM clear switch 82h has been operated based on whether a RAM clear signal has been input. When the RAM clear switch 82h has been operated, the CPU 82a initializes the game information stored in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a does not initialize the number of game media P2 and the performance information. When the RAM clear switch 82h has not been operated, the CPU 82a does not initialize the game information. In other words, the performance information is not initialized in either the situation where the number of game media P2 is initialized or the situation where the game information is initialized. The CPU 82a then returns based on the initialized or backed up number of game media P2, the game information, and the performance information, and executes normal frame-side processing.

The frame side normal processing of the frame control board 82 will be described.
The game media number management process among the frame-side normal processes will be described.
When the CPU 82a receives the acquired prize ball number information from the game control board 80, it adds the acquired prize ball number that can be determined from the acquired prize ball number information to the number of game media P2. The acquired prize ball number information is control information that is output by the game control board 80 when the conditions for awarding prize balls are met in response to a win at a specific winning port, and is configured to be able to determine the number of prize balls set at that winning port.

When the CPU 82a inputs the award information from the management device 90, it adds the number of award balls indicated in the award information to the number of game media P2. When the CPU 82a detects that one game ball has been supplied from the supply unit 43A to the striking unit 43B by the supply sensor D19, it subtracts one from the number of game media P2. Not limited to this, the CPU 82a may subtract the number of game media P2 in response to the driving of the launch solenoid 43b. As described above, when the CPU 82a inputs a subtraction reference signal, it controls the supply solenoid 43a to displace the supply member (movable piece) and perform an operation to supply one game ball. As a result, one game ball is cut out from the supply unit 43A and flows into the striking position of the striking unit 43B. When a foul ball is detected by a foul ball detection sensor (not shown), the CPU 82a may add one to the number of game media P2. The CPU 82a controls the game media number display unit 16a to display the current number of game media P2. When the number of game media P2 becomes zero as a result of the subtraction, the CPU 82a outputs a game media number zero signal to the launch permission circuit 82m. In this way, the CPU 82a updates the number of game media P2 in accordance with the operation of the launch mechanism 43. By executing a game media number management process, the CPU 82a can function as a management means for electronically managing the game media available for play.

The counting process in the frame-side normal process will now be described.
When the CPU 82a is in a countable state, it can transition to a counting execution state in which game balls equivalent to the number of game media P2 are transferred to the outside of the machine based on the operation of the counting switch 16b. As an example, the countable state is a state in which the necessary power is supplied and the number of game media P2 is not 0. When the CPU 82a is in a countable state, it controls the light emitter built into the counting notification unit 16c so that the counting notification unit 16c is lit. When the CPU 82a is in a counting execution state, it outputs a counting signal to the emission permission circuit 82m. As will be described in detail later, the CPU 82a outputs the counting information to the management device 90 in the counting execution state. The CPU 82a subtracts the number of counted balls that can be specified from the counting information from the number of game media P2. In other words, the CPU 82a transfers the game balls as electronic game media to the management device 90. The CPU 82a controls the gaming media number display unit 16a to display the updated gaming media number P2. The CPU 82a executes counting processing, thereby functioning as a control means capable of executing control relating to the transfer of gaming media.

The difference ball monitoring process, which is part of the normal frame side processing, will be explained below.
The difference ball monitoring process is a process for monitoring whether the operating conditions of the complete function are satisfied. When the CPU 82a inputs the number of winning prize balls information from the game control board 80, it adds the number of winning prize balls that can be specified from the winning prize balls information to the difference ball PC. As an example, the difference ball PC is managed by updating the reference value counter stored in the RAM 82c. When the difference ball PC is 1 or more, the CPU 82a subtracts 1 from the difference ball PC when it detects that one game ball has been supplied from the supply unit 43A to the shot unit 43B by the supply sensor D19. When the difference ball PC is 0, the CPU 82a does not subtract 1 from the difference ball PC even if it detects that one game ball has been supplied from the supply unit 43A to the shot unit 43B. Alternatively, an out-ball sensor that detects game balls discharged from the game board 20 may be provided in the recovery mechanism 41, and the difference ball PC may be reduced by 1 each time the out-ball sensor detects one game ball. In this case, the game balls detected by the out-ball sensor do not include foul balls, but may include foul balls.

When the difference ball PC reaches the activation reference number (for example, 95,000 balls) as a result of the update, the CPU 82a activates the complete function. As an example, the CPU 82a stores a complete flag in the RAM 82c. The CPU 82a outputs a game stop signal to the launch permission circuit 82m while the complete flag is stored. The CPU 82a outputs a complete command to the game control board 80. Note that the CPU 82a also outputs a complete command to the game control board 80 when it returns with the complete flag stored after power is turned on and starts normal frame side processing. The complete flag is included in the game information stored in the RAM 82c, and is therefore stored and held until it is initialized in response to the operation of the RAM clear switch 82h.

The frame side error processing of the frame side normal processing will be described.
The frame-side error process is a process for detecting the occurrence of an error and setting the error. In the following description, when an error is described as being "set," it means that information (such as a flag) capable of identifying the error is stored in a storage means such as a RAM. When an error is described as being "released," it means that information capable of identifying the error is erased from a storage means such as a RAM. When the CPU 82a sets an error, it outputs control information capable of identifying the occurrence of the error (hereinafter referred to as an error occurrence command) to the game control board 80. When the CPU 82a releases the error setting, it outputs control information capable of identifying the elimination of the error (hereinafter referred to as an error elimination command) to the game control board 80.

When the CPU 82a receives a first door open signal from the first door open switch D17, it sets a first door open error in which the front frame 14 is open. When the CPU 82a stops receiving the first door open signal, it cancels the setting of the first door open error. When the CPU 82a receives a second door open signal from the second door open switch D18, it sets a second door open error in which the middle frame 13 is open. When the CPU 82a stops receiving the second door open signal, it cancels the setting of the second door open error.

When the CPU 82a receives a radio wave detection signal from the radio wave sensor D16, it sets a radio wave error. A radio wave error is a state in which there is a high possibility that fraud (cheating) using radio waves is occurring. Once the CPU 82a sets a radio wave error, it will not cancel the radio wave error until the power is turned off. Note that if the radio wave error is resolved after the power is turned on, the radio wave error will not be set, and if a radio wave error is detected again, the radio wave error will be set even after the power is turned on.

When the CPU 82a detects that ball clogging has occurred in the supply section 43A based on the supply signal output by the supply sensor D19, it sets a supply sensor error. As an example, the CPU 82a sets a supply sensor error when a specified time has passed since the supply signal turned on without turning off as the supply solenoid 43a is driven. When the error release switch 82f is operated, the CPU 82a releases the supply sensor error setting. Note that even if the supply sensor error setting is released, if the ball clogging in the supply section 43A has not been resolved, the supply sensor error is reset after a specified time has passed.

When the number of game media P2 exceeds the predetermined number of balls Z1, the CPU 82a sets an over game ball count error. When the number of game media P2 falls below the predetermined number of balls Z2, the CPU 82a cancels the over game ball count error setting (where Z2<Z1). The number of game media P2 can be reduced by operating the counting switch 16b to output a portion of the number of game media P2 to the management device 90 as the number of counted balls.

The error notification process of the frame side normal process will be described.
The CPU 82a controls the performance display monitor 82d to display an error code, which is an example of information that can identify the error, while the error is being set. The CPU 82a may alternate between displaying the error code and displaying the base value (performance information) at predetermined time intervals. When multiple types of errors are set, the CPU 82a displays multiple types of error codes and the base value in sequence at predetermined time intervals. Not limited to this, the CPU 82a may be configured to display the error code and not display the base value. The CPU 82a controls the performance display monitor 82d to end the display of the error code when the error being set is released. The CPU 82a may control the number of game media display unit 16a to display an error code that can identify the error while the error is being set. The gaming machine 10 may be provided with a dedicated display unit for displaying the error code on the back side of the machine.

The CPU 82a may perform control to restrict the launch of game balls while a specific error is being set. As an example, the CPU 82a outputs an error signal to the launch permission circuit 82m while a supply sensor error is being set. Here, the launch permission circuit 82m generates a launch permission signal when it receives a connection signal from the management device 90, does not receive a launch stop signal from the game control board 80, and does not receive a zero number of game media signal, a counting signal, a game stop signal, or an error signal from the CPU 82a, and outputs the signal to the launch control board 83. In other words, the launch permission signal is in an ON state. In this way, the output condition of the launch permission signal in the launch permission circuit 82m is met when it receives a connection signal from the management device 90, does not receive a launch stop signal from the game control board 80, and does not receive an error signal, a counting signal, a game stop signal, or a zero number of game media signal from the CPU 82a.

The input of a connection signal from the management device 90 indicates that the management device 90 and the gaming machine 10 are normally connected. The absence of an error signal from the CPU 82a indicates that an error has not occurred in the frame control board 82 that requires the release of gaming balls to be prohibited. The absence of a zero number of gaming media signal from the CPU 82a indicates that the number of gaming media P2 is not 0. The absence of a counting signal from the CPU 82a indicates that counting is not in progress. The absence of a game stop signal from the CPU 82a indicates that the complete function is not in operation.

Various processes performed by the game control board 80 (CPU 80a) will be described.
The main side power cutoff process will now be described.
When the CPU 80a receives the power interruption detection signal output by the backup circuit 82k, it executes the main side power interruption process. In the main side power interruption process, the CPU 80a calculates a checksum value of the RAM 80c and stores the calculated checksum value in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a also stores a backup flag in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a then waits until the power is completely interrupted. The various information stored in the RAM 80c at the time of the power interruption is retained even after the power interruption by the backup power mentioned above. The CPU 80a outputs a launch stop signal to the frame control board 82 (launch permission circuit 82m) from the start of the main side power interruption process until the power is completely interrupted.

The main power-on process will now be described.
When the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 is started with power-on, it executes the main side power-on process. The CPU 80a judges whether the backed up information is normal or not. For example, the CPU 80a judges whether the backup flag is stored in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a calculates the checksum value of the RAM 80c and judges whether the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value calculated in the main side power-off process. The CPU 80a judges that the information is normal if the backup flag is stored and the checksum values match, while judging that the information is abnormal if they do not. If the backed up information is judged to be abnormal, the CPU 80a initializes the game information stored in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as an initialization command) that can specify that the game information has been initialized to the performance control board 81. After that, the CPU 80a ends the main side power-on process.

If the backed up information is determined to be normal, the CPU 80a determines whether or not a RAM clear signal has been input from the RAM clear switch 82h via the frame control board 82. The RAM clear switch 82h may be provided on the game control board 80, or on a control board different from the game control board 80. If a RAM clear signal has been input, the CPU 80a initializes the game information stored in the RAM 80c. In this case, the CPU 80a outputs an initialization command to the performance control board 81. On the other hand, if a RAM clear signal has not been input, the CPU 80a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a power recovery command) that can specify a return based on the backed up game information to the performance control board 81. After that, the CPU 80a ends the main side power-on process.

The CPU 80a outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 82 (firing permission circuit 82m) from the start of the main power-on process to the end of the main power-on process. In other words, when the main power-on process ends, the output of the firing stop signal is stopped. The output of the firing stop signal ends simultaneously with the output of the power recovery command or the initialization command, or immediately after the output of the power recovery command or the initialization command. Then, when the CPU 80a ends the main power-on process, it allows the timer interrupt process. In other words, if the game information has been initialized, the timer interrupt process is executed based on the game information after initialization. In this case, the CPU 80a executes various processes based on a state in which the first reserved number and the second reserved number are both zero, neither the first special game nor the second special game is being executed, and no jackpot game has been awarded. If the game information has not been initialized, the timer interrupt process is executed based on the backed-up game information. In this case, if the first and second reserved numbers are the reserved numbers at the time of power loss, and if either the first or second special game was being played at the time of power loss, the CPU 80a returns to the process of playing that special game, and if a jackpot game was being awarded at the time of power loss, the CPU 80a returns to the process of awarding the jackpot game.

The CPU 80a executes timer interrupt processing every predetermined control period (e.g., 4 ms), which includes special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing. Processing realized as timer interrupt processing also includes jackpot game processing, state transition processing, and processing for main error processing, which will be described later.

The special symbol input process will be described.
The CPU 80a judges whether the game ball has entered the first start hole 23A based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start sensor D11. When the game ball has entered the first start hole 23A, the CPU 80a judges whether the first reserved number stored in the RAM 80c is less than the upper limit number (4 as an example). When the first reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a adds 1 to the first reserved number and updates it. Next, the CPU 80a controls the first reserved display unit 33 to display information that can identify the updated first reserved number. The CPU 80a outputs control information that can identify the updated first reserved number to the performance control board 81. The reserved condition of the first special game is established when the game ball is detected by the first start sensor D11 when the first reserved number is less than the upper limit number.

Next, the CPU 80a acquires the random numbers generated by the random number generation circuit 80d, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the RAM 80c. For example, the random numbers are winning random numbers used in the lottery for determining a winning special pattern, winning pattern random numbers used to determine a winning pattern, and variation pattern random numbers used to determine a variation pattern. The CPU 80a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game, and the order in which the random number information was stored. 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 random number information for the first special game is stored in the RAM 80c, the CPU 80a determines whether the game ball has entered the second start port 23B based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor D12 when the game ball has not entered the first start port 23A and when the first reserved number is not less than the upper limit number. When the game ball has entered the second start port 23B, the CPU 80a determines whether the second reserved number stored in the RAM 80c is less than the upper limit number (4 as an example). When the second reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a adds 1 to the second reserved number and updates it. The CPU 80a controls the second reserved display unit 34 to display information that can identify the second reserved number after the addition. The CPU 80a outputs control information that can identify the updated second reserved number to the performance control board 81. The reservation condition for the second special game is met when the game ball is detected by the second start sensor D12 when the second reserved number is less than the upper limit number.

Next, the CPU 80a acquires random numbers generated within the game control board 80, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the random number information is to be used for the second special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. By storing the random number information to be used for the special game in the RAM 80c, the gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the special game until the start conditions of the special game are met. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the RAM 80c, if the game ball has not entered the second start hole 23B, and if the second reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol input process.

The special symbol start process will be described.
First, the CPU 80a judges whether the start condition of the special game is satisfied. The CPU 80a judges it as positive when the jackpot game is not being played and neither of the special games is being played, whereas it judges it as negative when the jackpot game is being played or any of the special games is being played. If the start condition of the special game is not satisfied, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol start process. If the start condition of the special game is satisfied, the CPU 80a judges whether the second reserved number is greater than zero. If the second reserved number is zero, the CPU 80a judges whether the first reserved number is greater than zero. If the first reserved number is zero, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol start process.

If the first reserved number is greater than zero, the CPU 80a executes a process to execute the first special game. Specifically, the CPU 80a updates the first reserved number by subtracting one. The CPU 80a controls the first reserved display unit 33 to display information that can identify the first reserved number after subtraction. The CPU 80a outputs control information that can identify the updated first reserved number to the performance control board 81. The CPU 80a acquires the random number information stored first from the random number information for the first special game from the RAM 80c. The CPU 80a uses the winning random number identified from the acquired random number information to perform a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won as a winning lottery for the special pattern. The CPU 80a performs a jackpot lottery with a jackpot probability according to the current probability state (whether or not the special jackpot function is activated). As an example, the jackpot lottery may be performed based on whether or not the value of the winning random number is a value that indicates a jackpot.

When a jackpot is won, the CPU 80a performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the CPU 80a performs a lottery for a jackpot pattern using a winning pattern random number that can be identified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot pattern to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 80a performs a lottery for determining a variation pattern using a variation pattern random number that can be identified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple jackpot variation patterns. After that, the CPU 80a ends the special pattern start processing.

If the jackpot is not won, the CPU 80a performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the CPU 80a determines the loss symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 80a performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple loss variation patterns. After that, the CPU 80a ends the special symbol start process.

If the second reserved number is greater than zero, the CPU 80a performs processing to execute a second special game. The processing to execute a second special game is the same as the processing to execute a first special game, except that "first special game" is replaced with "second special game" and "first reserved number" is replaced with "second reserved number", and therefore a detailed explanation is omitted. In other words, the CPU 80a subtracts the second reserved number, performs a jackpot drawing, and performs any variation processing based on the result of the jackpot drawing, and then ends the special symbol start processing.

The CPU 80a outputs a variation start command and a special pattern command to the performance control board 81 during the jackpot variation process and the miss variation process. The variation start command is control information that can identify the variation pattern determined in each variation process and the start of the variation game. The special pattern command is control information that can identify the special pattern determined in each variation process. The variation start command and the special pattern command are different control information 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 pattern start process is completed, the CPU 80a executes a first special game or a second special game through a process separate from the special pattern start process. As an example, when the CPU 80a executes the first special game, it controls the first special pattern display unit 31 to start the variable display of a specified pattern. The CPU 80a measures the variable time set in the variable pattern. When the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the CPU 80a controls the first special pattern display unit 31 to stop displaying the special pattern determined in the special pattern start process. In addition, when the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the CPU 80a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a variable end command) capable of identifying the end of the variable game to the performance control board 81.

As an example, when the CPU 80a executes the second special game, it controls the second special symbol display unit 32 to start displaying a predetermined symbol. The CPU 80a measures the change time set in the change pattern. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the CPU 80a controls the second special symbol display unit 32 to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. In addition, when the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the CPU 80a outputs a change end command to the performance control board 81.

The jackpot game processing will now be described.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the CPU 80a stops and displays a jackpot symbol in a special game, the CPU 80a executes the jackpot game process after the end of the jackpot special game. The CPU 80a specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. The CPU 80a is configured to award the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the CPU 80a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) capable of identifying the start of the opening time to the performance control board 81. When the opening time has elapsed, the CPU 80a performs processing to execute the round game. As an example, the CPU 80a controls the special solenoid SL2 using the specified opening control data for the big win game to open the big win opening 23C. When the number of game balls detected by the count sensor D13 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed, the CPU 80a controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the big win opening 23C, thereby ending the round game. The CPU 80a repeats such processing to execute the round game until the upper limit number of round games set for the big win game is completed. The CPU 80a outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as a round command) capable of identifying the start of the round game to the performance control board 81 every time the round game is started. When the final round of play ends, the CPU 80a outputs control information capable of identifying the start of the ending time (hereinafter referred to as an ending start command) to the performance control board 81. When the ending time has elapsed, the CPU 80a ends the jackpot game. The CPU 80a may output control information capable of identifying the passage of the ending time (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) to the performance control board 81.

The state transition process will now be described.
As an example, when the CPU 80a ends a jackpot game based on the first jackpot pattern among the jackpot patterns, it sets a high probability flag in the RAM 80c. That is, the CPU 80a controls to a high probability state. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot pattern ends, the CPU 80a does not erase the probability flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. As an example, when the CPU 80a ends a jackpot game based on a second jackpot pattern different from the first jackpot pattern, it does not set the high probability flag in the RAM 80c. That is, the CPU 80a controls to a low probability state. When the CPU 80a starts a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, it erases the high probability flag. That is, the CPU 80a controls to a low probability state during a jackpot game.

As an example, the CPU 80a sets an operation flag in the RAM 80c when a jackpot game based on the first jackpot pattern or the second jackpot pattern ends. In other words, the CPU 80a controls to a high ball entry rate state. After the jackpot game based on the second jackpot pattern ends, the CPU 80a counts the number of times the special game is executed after the jackpot game ends by updating the value of the execution counter stored in the RAM 80c each time a special game is started. As an example, the CPU 80a erases the operation flag stored in the RAM 80c when a special game in which the number of times the special game is executed after the jackpot game ends reaches the activation number ends. In other words, the CPU 80a controls to a low ball entry rate state when the special game for the activation number ends after the jackpot game based on the second jackpot pattern ends. Note that the CPU 80a does not erase the activation flag until the next jackpot game is awarded after the jackpot game based on the first jackpot pattern ends. When starting a jackpot game and the activation flag is set, the CPU 80a clears the activation flag. In other words, the CPU 80a controls the game to a low ball entry rate state during the jackpot game.

The main side error processing will be described.
In the main error processing, various error settings, error setting cancellation, and output of predetermined control information (control commands) are performed. When the CPU 80a receives an error occurrence command from the frame control board 82, it outputs the command to the performance control board 81. When the CPU 80a receives an error resolution command from the frame control board 82, it outputs the command to the performance control board 81.

When the first door opening signal is input from the first door opening switch D17 via the frame control board 82, the CPU 80a sets the first door opening error. When the second door opening signal is input from the second door opening switch D18 via the frame control board 82, the CPU 80a sets the second door opening error. When the door opening error is set, the CPU 80a outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as the door opening error setting command) to the performance control board 81. When the first door opening signal is no longer input, the CPU 80a cancels the setting of the first door opening error. When the second door opening signal is no longer input, the CPU 80a cancels the setting of the second door opening error. When both the first door opening error setting and the second door opening error setting are canceled, the CPU 80a outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as the door opening error cancellation command) to the performance control board 81. The CPU 80a outputs a launch stop signal to the frame control board 82 (launch permission circuit 82m) from the time the first door open error is set until the setting is released.

When the CPU 80a inputs an empty shot generation command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as an empty shot notification command) to the performance control board 81. When the CPU 80a inputs a complete command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a complete notification command) to the performance control board 81. Then, the CPU 80a generates a game stop state. As an example, the CPU 80a disables the detection of game balls by the first start sensor D11, the second start sensor D12, and the gate sensor D15. That is, the CPU 80a does not increase the first reserved number even if it inputs a detection signal from the first start sensor D11. The CPU 80a does not increase the second reserved number even if it inputs a detection signal from the second start sensor D12. The CPU 80a does not increase the reserved number of the normal game even if it inputs a detection signal from the gate sensor D15. The CPU 80a controls the normal solenoid SL1 to close the second start port 23B. The CPU 80a controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the large prize opening 23C.

The various processes executed by the performance control board 81 (CPU 81a) will be described.
The sub-side power-on process will now be described.
When the CPU 81a is started up following power-on, it waits until an initialization command or a power restoration command is input. When the CPU 81a receives the initialization command or the power restoration command, it executes a sub-side power-on process.

When the CPU 81a inputs an initialization command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES to execute a RAM clear notification (initialization notification). As an example, the RAM clear notification includes displaying information that can identify the execution of a RAM clear (hereinafter referred to as RAM clear information), such as the string "RAM clear", on the display performance device 19. When a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the RAM clear notification, the CPU 81a controls the performance equipment ES to end the RAM clear notification. When the CPU 81a inputs an initialization command, it controls the display performance device 19 to display a predetermined background image and a combination of predetermined performance patterns.

When the CPU 81a inputs a power restoration command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES to execute a power restoration notification. As an example, the power restoration notification includes displaying information that can identify non-execution of RAM clearing (hereinafter referred to as power restoration information) on the display performance device 19, such as the string "Power restoration in progress." The CPU 81a controls the performance equipment ES to end the power restoration notification when a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed since starting the power restoration notification. Without being limited to this, the CPU 81a may be configured not to execute the power restoration notification. When the CPU 81a inputs a power restoration command, it controls the display performance device 19 to display a predetermined background image and a combination of performance patterns that is different from the combination of the predetermined performance patterns.

When the CPU 81a receives an initialization command or a power recovery command, it executes various normal processing at a predetermined control period (e.g., every 108 ms). Normal processing includes sub-side error processing, jackpot presentation processing, presentation game processing, etc.

The big win presentation process will be described.
The big win performance process is a process for executing a performance during a big win game (hereinafter, referred to as a big win performance). When an opening command is input, the CPU 81a controls the performance device ES including the display performance device 19 to execute an opening performance. When a round command is input, the CPU 81a controls the performance device ES including the display performance device 19 to execute a round performance. When an ending start command is input, the CPU 81a controls the performance device ES including the display performance device 19 to execute an ending performance. When an ending end command is input, the CPU 81a controls the performance device ES including the display performance device 19 to end the ending performance. The big win performance is an example of a predetermined performance. The big win performance is executed together with a sound performance that outputs a predetermined performance sound from the sound performance device 17. The predetermined performance sound may be a human or animal voice, a song (BGM), a sound effect, or the like.

The effect game process will now be described.
The presentation game process is a process for executing a presentation game as one of the display presentations related to a special game during the execution of the special game. When the CPU 81a inputs a variation start command and a special symbol command, the CPU 81a controls the presentation device ES including the display presentation device 19 to execute a presentation game. Specifically, when the CPU 81a inputs a variation start command, the CPU 81a selects a presentation pattern (presentation content) of the presentation game based on a variation pattern that can be specified from the command. When the CPU 81a inputs a special symbol command, the CPU 81a determines a symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the presentation game based on a special symbol that can be specified from the command. When a jackpot symbol can be specified from the special symbol command, the CPU 81a determines a jackpot symbol combination. When a miss symbol can be specified from the special symbol command, the CPU 81a determines a miss symbol combination. When a reach performance is executed, the CPU 81a determines a miss symbol combination including a reach.

The CPU 81a controls the display/effect device 19 to start the variable display of the effect symbols in each symbol row in response to the input of the variation start command. In other words, the CPU 81a starts the effect game. Furthermore, when the CPU 81a is to execute a preview effect in relation to the effect game, it controls the effect device ES including the display/effect device 19 to execute the preview effect. The preview effect is an effect that suggests or notifies the expectation that the effect game being executed will be a jackpot (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot expectation). The effect game and the preview effect are examples of a predetermined effect. The effect game and the preview effect are executed together with an audio effect that outputs a predetermined effect sound from the audio effect device 17. The predetermined effect sound may be the voice of a person or animal, a song (BGM), a sound effect, or the like.

When a predetermined timing arrives after starting the presentation game, the CPU 81a causes the symbol combination to be temporarily frozen and then causes the symbol combination to be confirmed and frozen when a variation end command is input. The CPU 81a may also cause the symbol combination to be confirmed and frozen when a variation time set in the variation pattern elapses, regardless of the variation end command. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted.

The sub-side error processing will be explained.
The sub-side error processing is a process for executing an error notification in response to an error-related command input from the game control board 80.

When the CPU 81a inputs a door open error setting command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES to execute a door open error notification. As an example, the door open error notification includes displaying on the display performance device 19 information that can identify that at least one of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 is open (hereinafter referred to as door open error information). As an example, the door open error information is the character string "Door is open." When the CPU 81a inputs a door open error release command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES to terminate the door open error notification. In other words, the display of the door open error information is terminated.

When the CPU 81a inputs a complete notification command, it controls some or all of the presentation devices 17-19 that make up the presentation equipment ES, and issues a notification that the complete function has been activated (hereinafter referred to as a complete notification). As one example, the complete notification includes displaying information that can identify that the complete function has been activated (hereinafter referred to as complete information) on the display presentation device 19. As one example, the complete information is information that indirectly indicates that the complete function is activated, such as the character string "Today's game is over." As one example, the complete information may include information that directly indicates that the complete function is activated, such as the character string "Complete function activated."

When the CPU 81a inputs the blank hit notification command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17 to 19 that make up the performance equipment ES to execute the blank hit occurrence notification. As an example, the blank hit occurrence notification includes displaying information that can identify that a blank hit has occurred (hereinafter referred to as blank hit occurrence information) on the display performance device 19. As an example, the blank hit occurrence information is displayed in a manner that displays an image that resembles a star. The blank hit occurrence notification may include causing the light-emitting performance device 18 to light up, turn off, or light up in a specific light-emitting pattern that can identify that a blank hit has occurred. The specific light-emitting pattern may be a light-emitting pattern dedicated to the blank hit occurrence notification, or may be a light-emitting pattern that is also used for a specified error. When a specific period ta has elapsed since the CPU 81a input the blank hit notification command, it controls the performance equipment ES to end the blank hit occurrence notification. In other words, the display of the blank hit occurrence information ends.

When the CPU 82a inputs an error occurrence command capable of identifying the occurrence of an over-number-of-game-balls error from the game control board 80, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17 to 19 constituting the performance device ES to execute an over-number-of-game-balls notification. As an example, the over-number-of-game-balls notification includes displaying information capable of identifying the occurrence of an over-number-of-game-balls error (hereinafter referred to as over-number-of-game-balls information) on the display performance device 19. As an example, the over-number-of-game-balls information is information that directly indicates the occurrence of an over-number-of-game-balls error, such as the character string "Over-number-of-game-balls has occurred!". The over-number-of-game-balls information may be information that indirectly indicates the occurrence of an over-number-of-game-balls error. The over-number-of-game-balls notification may include illuminating, extinguishing, or lighting the light-emitting performance device 18 in a light-emitting pattern capable of identifying the occurrence of an over-number-of-game-balls error. This light-emitting pattern may be a light-emitting pattern dedicated to the over-number-of-game-balls notification, or may be a light-emitting pattern shared with a specified error. As an example, the notification of the excess number of game balls may include outputting from the audio production device 17 an audio that can identify the occurrence of an excess number of game balls error, such as an audio that reads out the string of characters "The number of game balls exceeds the specified number of game balls." When the CPU 81a inputs an error resolution command that can identify the resolution of the excess number of game balls error, it ends the notification of the excess number of game balls. In other words, the display of the excess number of game balls information ends.

In this way, the over-number-of-game-balls notification starts when the number of game media P2 exceeds the predetermined number of balls Z1, and ends when the number of game balls falls below the predetermined number of balls Z2. Although the over-number-of-game-balls notification is treated as an error, it does not interfere with play like other errors, and is more intended to alert the player that the number of game balls has increased too much. The over-number-of-game-balls notification corresponds to a notification that encourages the player to transfer the balls he or she has while playing, which is indicated by the number of game media P2. The over-number-of-game-balls notification can also be said to be a notification that encourages the player to operate the counting switch 16b, because the operation of the counting switch 16b is necessary to transfer the balls he or she has.

There are several conditions for stopping the release of the game ball.
As an example, there are ten types of launch stop conditions, conditions [1] to [10]. Condition [1] is that the touch signal from the touch sensor D01 is in an OFF state. Condition [2] is that the stop signal from the launch stop switch D02 is in an ON state. Condition [3] is that the volume signal (voltage) input from the handle volume D03 is 0. Condition [4] is that the counting execution state is transitioned to. Condition [5] is that the number of game media P2 is 0. Conditions [1] to [5] are examples of specific conditions other than the detection of a predetermined error. In the gaming machine 10, the operation for launching the game ball is restricted in response to the establishment of a specific condition other than the detection of a predetermined error. Then, in the performance device ES, a specific notification is made so that the restriction of the operation for launching the game ball can be recognized. A part or all of the specific condition is that the number of electronically managed media (for example, the number of game media P2) is 0 (zero).

Condition [6] is that a launch stop signal is output from the game control board 80. The launch stop signal is output when the main side power-on process is being executed (condition [6A]), when the main side power-off process is being executed (condition [6B]), and when the first door open error is being set (condition [6C]). In this way, in the gaming machine 10, in response to the establishment of a predetermined condition, the game control board 80 can output a launch stop signal (information) to the frame control board 82, which instructs the restriction of the operation for launching the game ball. Conditions [6A] to [6C] are examples of the predetermined condition. In other words, there are multiple predetermined conditions. Also, part or all of the predetermined condition is that a predetermined error is detected. The first door open error is an example of a predetermined error.

Condition [7] is that no connection signal is input from the management device 90. For example, it is assumed that the management device 90 and the frame control board 82 are not connected, or that a break has occurred in the cable. Condition [8] is that an error that will cause launch to stop is set in the frame control board 82. As an example, an error that will cause launch to stop is a supply sensor error. Condition [9] is that there is an abnormality in the connection between the frame control board 82 and the launch control board 83. For example, it is assumed that the frame control board 82 and the launch control board 83 are not connected, or that a break has occurred in the cable. Condition [10] is that the complete function has been activated.

The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to transfer the gaming media indicated in the gaming media number P2 to an external device (for example, the management device 90) by operating the counting switch 16b. In the following description, counting some or all of the gaming media indicated in the gaming media number P2 and transferring them to an external device may simply be referred to as "counting". The transfer of gaming media to an external device is performed by generating counting information as control information capable of identifying the number of gaming media to be transferred, and outputting the counting information to the external device. In the following description, the number of gaming media identified by the counting information may be referred to as the "indicated number".

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an automatic counting function. The automatic counting function is a function that can automatically proceed with the counting of the number of gaming media P2 without operating the counting switch 16b. When the automatic counting function is in operation, the counting information is generated and output so as to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine without performing a specific operation using the counting switch 16b. When the automatic counting function is not in operation, the counting information is generated and output so as to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the counting switch 16b. When the automatic counting function is not in operation, the automatic counting function is off. The state in which the automatic counting function is off is the first control mode for the transfer of gaming media. When the automatic counting function is in operation, the automatic counting function is on. The state in which the automatic counting function is on is the second control mode for the transfer of gaming media. Thus, there are a first control mode and a second control mode for the control mode for the transfer of gaming media. The first control mode is the so-called "manual counting mode," and the second control mode is the so-called "automatic counting mode."

The process of switching the automatic counting function will now be described.
The switching process is a process of switching the automatic counting function between on and off. As an example, the automatic counting function can be switched between on and off by a predetermined operation using the counting switch 16b.

The process of switching the automatic counting function from off to on will now be described.
When the automatic counting function is off, the CPU 82a measures the operation time of the counting switch 16b when the operation of the counting switch 16b is started. As an example, the CPU 82a measures the operation time by updating the value of the second operation timer stored in the RAM 82c. If the operation time from the start to the end of the operation of the counting switch 16b is less than the third operation time Tp (for example, 4000 ms), the CPU 82a does not switch the automatic counting function on. On the other hand, if the operation time from the start to the end of the operation of the counting switch 16b is equal to or longer than the third operation time Tp, the CPU 82a switches the automatic counting function on. That is, the CPU 82a stores an automatic counting flag in the RAM 82c. When the CPU 82a sets the automatic counting function on, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter, referred to as an automatic counting start command) to the game control board 80. When the CPU 80 a of the game control board 80 inputs an automatic counting start command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a start notification command) to the performance control board 81 .

The process of switching the automatic counting function from on to off will now be described.
When the automatic counting function is on and the operation of the counting switch 16b is started, the CPU 82a switches the automatic counting function off. That is, the CPU 82a erases the automatic counting flag in the RAM 82c. As will be described in detail later, when the automatic counting function is switched from on to off, counting information is not output unless the counting switch 16b is operated again. When the CPU 82a sets the automatic counting function to off, it outputs control information (hereinafter referred to as an automatic counting release command) that can identify that the automatic counting function has been set to off to the game control board 80. When the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 inputs the automatic counting release command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a release notification command) to the performance control board 81.

Next, the count information generating process will be described.
The counting information generation process is a process in which the CPU 82a of the frame control board 82 generates counting information based on the number of game media P2. In the counting information generation process, the CPU 82a can generate counting information based on the operation of the counting switch 16b. The counting information generated in the counting information generation process is output to the management device 90 by the information input/output process described later.

The process when the automatic counting function is off (first control mode) will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, the counting information is generated as control information corresponding to different instruction numbers (number of counting balls) according to the operation mode of the counting switch 16b. As an example, when the operation mode of the counting switch 16b is the first operation mode, the counting information is generated as information capable of identifying one ball (hereinafter referred to as the first counting information). When the operation mode of the counting switch 16b is the second operation mode, the counting information is generated as information capable of identifying a maximum of 250 balls (hereinafter referred to as the second counting information). As an example, the first operation mode is a short press operation in which the operation time from the start of the operation of the counting switch 16b is less than the first operation time Tm (for example, 500 ms). As an example, the second operation mode is a long press operation in which the operation time from the start of the operation of the counting switch 16b is equal to or longer than the first operation time Tm. The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to adjust the number of game balls to be transferred, such as one ball or 250 balls, according to the operation mode of the counting switch 16b.

Here, in order to transfer the number of game media P2 in a short time, it is preferable to transfer as many game media P2 as possible with a single short press or long press of the counting switch 16b. However, the reason for enabling the operation of the first operation mode is thought to be to provide convenience so that the player can transfer fractional parts at their own discretion, for example by transferring the "2 balls" in the ones digit when the number of game balls is "1202 balls". Also, the reason for not transferring all game media P2 with a single short press or long press of the counting switch 16b is to prevent a situation in which all game media P2 are lost due to a communication failure or the like while the counting information is being output. Also, transferring in stages allows the player to easily get a sense of the balls he has, which gives him a sense of security.

The CPU 82a measures the operation time of the counting switch 16b. As an example, the CPU 82a measures the operation time by updating the value of a first operation timer stored in the RAM 82c. If the operation time from the start to the end of the operation of the counting switch 16b is less than the first operation time Tm, the CPU 82a generates first counting information. If the operation time from the start to the end of the operation of the counting switch 16b is equal to or greater than the first operation time Tm, the CPU 82a generates second counting information. In this case, if the number of game media P2 exceeds 250 balls, the CPU 82a generates second counting information that can identify 250 balls. On the other hand, if the number of game media P2 is less than 250 balls, the CPU 82a generates counting information that can identify that number. In addition, even if the operation time of the counting switch 16b is equal to or longer than the first operation time Tm, if the number of game media P2 at that time is one ball, the CPU 82a generates second counting information capable of identifying one ball in the same manner as when the operation time is less than the first operation time Tm. In addition, if the operation time of the counting switch 16b exceeds the first operation time Tm but is continuously (continuously) operated, the CPU 82a generates second counting information every time the operation time reaches the second operation time Tn (for example, 300 ms). When the number of game media P2 becomes 0 as a result of the transfer, the CPU 82a outputs control information capable of identifying the completion of counting (hereinafter referred to as a counting completion command) to the game control board 80. When the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 inputs the counting completion command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a completion notification command) to the performance control board 81.

As described above, by increasing the number of counted balls according to the increase in the operation time of the counting switch 16b, the time to transfer the game balls of the game media number P2 to the management device 90 can be shortened. For example, assume that the game media number P2 is 50,000 balls. In this case, when the counting switch 16b is pressed briefly to transfer all the game media number P2, the number of operations of the counting switch 16b is 50,000 times. If one short press operation is performed for a time less than 500 ms but close to 500 ms, it takes about 2,500 seconds to transfer all the game media number P2. On the other hand, if the counting switch 16b is pressed for a long time, it takes about 60 seconds. In other words, according to the second operation mode of the counting switch 16b, the time for transfer can be shortened. Such time reduction can also reduce the inconvenience to players who need to wait longer to stop playing, and to players who want to transfer the number of game balls and continue playing. In addition, in a situation where the automatic counting function remains off, it is necessary to continue pressing and holding the counting switch 16b in order to continue generating the second counting information.

The process when the automatic counting function is on (second control mode) will be described.
When the automatic counting function is on, the CPU 82a generates specific counting information every time the automatic counting time Tq (for example, 300 ms) elapses until the automatic counting function is set to off or the number of game media P2 becomes 0. The automatic counting time Tq and the second operation time Tn satisfy the relationship Tn=Tq. However, the automatic counting time Tq and the second operation time Tn may satisfy the relationship Tn<Tq or may satisfy the relationship Tq<Tn.

When the number of game media P2 exceeds 250 balls, the CPU 82a generates specific counting information capable of identifying 250 balls. On the other hand, when the number of game media P2 is less than 250 balls, the CPU 82a generates specific counting information capable of identifying that number. Thus, as an example, the specific counting information and the second counting information have the same properties in that they can identify 1 ball to 250 balls as the number of game balls to be transferred outside the machine, and that they have the same generation cycle. The specific counting information and the second counting information have different properties in that the specific counting information is generated without the need for intermittent or continuous operation using the counting switch 16b, while the second counting information is generated based on intermittent or continuous operation using the counting switch 16b. The same is true for the first counting information. When the number of game media P2 becomes 0, the CPU 82a outputs a counting completion command to the game control board 80. When the CPU 80a of the game control board 80 receives a counting completion command, it outputs a completion notification command to the performance control board 81.

As an example, each operation time Tm, Tn, Tp satisfies the relationship Tn<Tm<Tp. Without being limited thereto, each operation time Tm, Tn, Tp may satisfy the relationship Tm<Tn<Tp, or may satisfy the relationship Tm=Tn<Tp. As an example, the third operation time Tp is longer than the time obtained by adding the first operation time Tm to the time obtained by multiplying the second operation time Tn by N (where N is a natural number). Without being limited thereto, it is preferable that the third operation time Tp is longer than one time the first operation time Tm, and it is preferable that the third operation time Tp is longer than one time the second operation time Tn. In other words, it is preferable that the third operation time Tp is a time length that allows the generation of counting information based on a long press operation to be performed once or multiple times.

Assuming that the automatic counting function continues to be off, in a situation where more than 3,000 game media are transferred by a long press operation, the counting switch 16b must be operated for a time of 4,100 ms or more, which corresponds to one first operation time Tm (500 ms x 1) and 12 second operation times Tn (300 ms x 12). On the other hand, in a situation where the automatic counting function is set to on by a long press operation, after performing a long press operation for the third operation time Tp (4,000 ms), the transfer of more than 3,000 game media can be completed by automatic counting without operating the counting switch 16b. Assuming that the automatic counting function continues to be off, in a situation where more than 3,000 game media are transferred by a short press operation, the counting switch 16b must be operated for 3,000 times or more. If one short press operation is performed in a time close to but less than 500 ms, it will take more than about 1500 seconds to transfer all of the game media number P2. On the other hand, in a situation where the automatic counting function is set to ON by a long press operation, after one long press operation spanning the third operation time Tp (4000 ms), the transfer of more than 3000 game media can be completed by automatic counting without operating the counting switch 16b.

In this way, the amount of operation (number of operations or operation time) of the counting switch 16b required to transfer more than the predetermined number of gaming media to the outside of the machine is less in the second control mode than in the first control mode. The counting switch 16b is capable of a long press operation in which the continuous operation time is equal to or longer than the first operation time Tm. The first operation time Tm is an example of a specified time. The predetermined number may be the number of gaming media that are transferred to the outside of the machine when a predetermined amount of long press operation is performed. A long press operation spanning one first operation time Tm and twelve second operation times Tn is an example of a predetermined amount of long press operation. As an example, the predetermined number is 3,000 balls.

In addition, it can be said that the output of specific information based on the first operation or the second operation can be executed so as to transfer a first specified number of gaming media to the outside of the machine. A short press operation is an example of a first operation. A long press operation that exceeds the first operation time Tm but does not exceed the third operation time Tp is an example of a second operation. An example of the first specified number is one ball or 250 balls. It can be said that the output of specific information based on the third operation can be executed so as to transfer a second specified number of gaming media, which is greater than the first specified number, to the outside of the machine. A long press operation that exceeds the third operation time Tp is an example of a third operation. An example of the second specified number is a number of gaming media that exceeds the predetermined number of 3,000 balls.

The information input/output process included in the frame-side normal process will be described.
The information input/output process is a process in which the frame control board 82 inputs and outputs various information related to the number of game balls (hereinafter, referred to as game ball information) between the frame control board 82 and an external device. As an example, the external device is the management device 90.

As shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 82a performs processing to output and input game ball information in a predetermined order. After the gaming machine 10 is powered on and started up, the CPU 82a repeatedly executes information input/output processing every period T. As an example, the period T is 300 ms. The period T is preferably shorter than the first operation time Tm (for example, 500 ms) at which the operation mode of the counting switch 16b is a long press operation, and is the same as the second operation time Tn (for example, 300 ms) corresponding to the period at which the counting information is generated when the counting switch 16b is operated by a long press operation. In the information input/output processing, the CPU 82a inputs/outputs (transmits/receives) messages with the management device 90. As an example, the messages include information notification, counting notification, loan notification, and loan receipt. These four types of messages are input/output in a predetermined order every period T.

In each cycle T, messages are input and output in the following order: information notification → counting notification → loan notification → loan receipt. The information notification is a message that notifies information about the gaming machine 10. The notification content of the information notification includes the number of gaming media P2 stored as data in the RAM 82c. The counting notification is a message that notifies information about the number of gaming balls counted by operating the counting switch 16b. The notification content of the counting notification includes the number of counted balls output in cycle T and the cumulative counted ball number, which corresponds to the cumulative value of the number of counted balls counted while the gaming machine 10 is powered on. In other words, the counting notification is counting information. The cumulative counted ball number is stored as data in the RAM 82c, and is cleared to 0 (zero) when the gaming machine 10 is powered on.

The loan notification is a message that notifies information regarding the number of game balls loaned. When the ball loan operation section (or payout operation section) of the operation panel 93 is operated, the loan notification notifies a number corresponding to the number of game balls to be loaned. The loan notification is an example of granted information. The loan notification notifies 0 (zero) when the number of counted balls in the counting notification in cycle T is 1 or more. The loan receipt is a message that notifies information regarding the receipt result of the loan notification. The loan receipt notifies normality when the receipt result of the loan notification is normal, and notifies abnormality when the receipt result of the loan notification is abnormal. Cases in which the receipt result becomes abnormal include when the gaming machine 10 is in a ball-empty state and when the number of game balls stored in the RAM 82c is 100,000 or more.

In a period T, the CPU 82a outputs an information notification to the management device 90. Next, in the same period T, the CPU 82a outputs a counting notification to the management device 90 after outputting the information notification. At this time, if the number of counted balls is 0 (zero), the CPU 82a outputs data indicating 0 (zero). On the other hand, if the number of counted balls is 1 or more, the CPU 82a outputs data indicating 1 or more, with 250 balls being the maximum value of data that can be output in one period T. Next, in the same period T, the CPU 82a inputs a loan notification output by the management device 90 after outputting the counting notification. Next, in the same period T, the CPU 82a outputs a loan receipt to the management device 90 after inputting the loan notification. After that, the CPU 82a outputs a new information notification at the start of the next period T after the period T has elapsed. As described above, the CPU 82a repeats the input and output of the information notification, counting notification, loan notification, and loan receipt for each period T. In addition, the CPU 82a does not output the number of balls counted by operating the count switch 16b within a cycle T during that cycle T, but outputs it in the count notification after the next cycle T.

The counting information generation process and information input/output process are an example of a predetermined control executed to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine. The CPU 82a that executes the counting information generation process and information input/output process can function as an example of a control means capable of executing control regarding the transfer of gaming media. In addition, the CPU 82a that executes the counting information generation process and information input/output process can also be understood as an example of an output means capable of outputting specific information regarding the transfer of gaming media. The counting information (counting notification) is an example of specific information.

Here, we will explain the information input/output processing in one cycle T in detail by applying hypothetical numbers. For the hypothetical numbers, the number of game media P2 is 600 balls, and the number of balls counted before a certain cycle T starts is 250 balls. The cumulative number of balls counted before a certain cycle T starts is 0 (zero). In Figures 6 and 7, the cumulative number of balls counted is illustrated as the cumulative number of balls.

Because the number of game media P2 at the start of the cycle T is 600 balls, the CPU 82a outputs an information notification including data indicating "number of game balls = 600 balls" to the management device 90. Next, since the number of counted balls counted at the start of the cycle T is 250 balls after outputting the information notification, the CPU 82a outputs a counting notification including data indicating "number of counted balls = 250 balls" and data indicating "cumulative number of counted balls = 250 balls" to the management device 90. When outputting the counting notification, the CPU 82a stores in the RAM 82c the number of game media P2 when the transfer of the number of counted balls output in the counting notification is successful, that is, the number of game balls after subtraction (here, 350 balls) obtained by subtracting the number of counted balls output in the counting notification from the number of game balls output in the information notification, separately from the number of game balls.

Next, when the CPU 82a inputs the loan notification, it determines that the number of game balls equivalent to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification have been transferred to the management device 90. If the CPU 82a has input the loan notification normally, it outputs a loan receipt indicating "normal" as the receipt result to the management device 90. At this time, the CPU 82a updates the number of game media P2 stored in the RAM 82c by transferring the number of game balls equivalent to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification to the outside. As an example, the CPU 82a updates the number of game media P2 stored in the RAM 82c so that it is equal to the number of game balls after subtraction stored in the RAM 82c when the counting notification was output. In other words, the number of game media P2 is updated to 350 balls, which is 600 balls minus 250 balls at this point. Here, the method of updating the number of gaming media P2 may be to overwrite the number of gaming balls after subtraction on the number of gaming media P2, or to subtract the difference between the number of gaming media P2 and the number of gaming balls after subtraction from the number of gaming media P2. The difference corresponds to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification. After that, the CPU 82a clears the number of gaming balls after subtraction stored in the RAM 82c to 0 (zero) and leaves the cumulative counted number at 250 balls. As a result, at the start of the next cycle T, 350 balls will be stored in the RAM 82c as the number of gaming media P2, and 250 balls will be stored as the cumulative counted number of balls.

As described above, in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the counting switch 16b. In the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine without a specific operation. A short press operation is an example of a specific operation. From the perspective of whether or not an operation related to counting is required, a long press operation performed each time a predetermined period (operation time Tm, Tn) that triggers the output of the second counting information is reached can also be considered as one of the specific operations. In the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine without the need to operate the counting switch 16b. In addition, the second control mode can be released by operating the counting switch 16b.

Based on a short press operation of the counting switch 16b, specific information is output so that the gaming medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in the first mode. The short press operation is an example of the first operation. As an example, the first mode is a mode in which the gaming balls are transferred to the management device 90 one ball at a time. Based on a long press operation of the counting switch 16b that exceeds the first operation time Tm and does not exceed the third operation time Tp, specific information is output so that the gaming medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in the second mode. A long press operation that exceeds the first operation time Tm and does not exceed the third operation time Tp is an example of the second operation. As an example, the second mode is a mode in which the gaming balls are transferred to the management device 90, in principle, 250 balls at a time, until the long press operation ends or the number of gaming media P2 becomes 0. Based on a long press operation of the counting switch 16b that exceeds the third operation time Tp, specific information is output so that the gaming medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in the third mode. A long press operation that exceeds the third operation time Tp is an example of the third operation. As an example, the third mode is a mode in which game balls are transferred to the management device 90, in principle 250 balls at a time, until the number of game media P2 becomes 0, without the need to operate the counting switch 16b.

The counting notification process will be described.
The counting notification process is executed by the CPU 81a of the performance control board 81. When the CPU 81a inputs a completion notification command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17 to 19 constituting the performance equipment ES to execute the counting completion notification. The counting completion notification is executed in a manner of outputting a sound that allows the player to recognize that the transfer of the gaming media has been completed and that the number P2 of gaming media managed in the gaming machine 10 has become 0. As an example, the counting completion notification may include outputting a counting completion sound from the sound performance device 17. As an example, the counting completion sound may be a sound effect such as "churi churi rin churi rin ♪". As an example, the counting completion sound may be a human voice reading out the character string "Your balls are now at 0".

As one example, the counting completion notification may include displaying information (hereinafter referred to as counting completion information) on the display performance device 19 that enables the player to recognize that the transfer of the gaming media has been completed and the number of gaming media P2 has reached 0. As one example, the counting completion information may be the text string "You have 0 balls." As one example, the counting completion notification may include causing the light-emitting performance device 18 to light up, turn off, or light up in a light-emitting pattern that enables the player to recognize that the transfer of the gaming media has been completed and the number of gaming media P2 has reached 0.

When the CPU 81a inputs the start notification command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES, and executes an automatic counting start notification. The automatic counting start notification is executed in a manner that outputs a sound that allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to on. As an example, the automatic counting start notification may include outputting an automatic counting start sound from the sound performance device 17. As an example, the automatic counting start sound may be a sound effect such as "Piropirorin♪". As an example, the automatic counting start sound may be a human voice reading the characters "Automatic counting will start."

As an example, the automatic counting start notification may include displaying information (hereinafter referred to as automatic counting start information) on the display device 19 that allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to on. As an example, the automatic counting start information may be a character string such as "Starting automatic counting" or "Automatic counting is in progress." As an example, the automatic counting start notification may include causing the light-emitting device 18 to emit light, turn off, or turn on in a light-emitting pattern that allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to on. The automatic counting start notification is an example of a predetermined notification. In a situation in which a predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine in the second control mode, a predetermined notification is made. The predetermined notification is made by at least audio output. It can also be said that a predetermined notification is made in a situation in which specific information is output to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine in the third mode.

When the CPU 81a inputs the release notification command, it controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that make up the performance equipment ES, and executes the automatic counting release notification. The automatic counting release notification is executed in a manner that outputs a sound that allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to off. As an example, the automatic counting release notification may include outputting an automatic counting release sound from the sound performance device 17. As an example, the automatic counting release sound may be a sound effect such as "Chan chan ♪". As an example, the automatic counting release sound may be a human voice reading the string "Automatic counting has been released."

As one example, the automatic counting cancellation notification may include displaying information (hereinafter referred to as automatic counting cancellation information) on the display performance device 19, which allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to off. As one example, the automatic counting cancellation information may be a string of characters such as "automatic counting has been cancelled" or "manual counting is in progress." As one example, the automatic counting cancellation notification may include causing the light-emitting performance device 18 to light up, turn off, or light up in a light-emitting pattern that allows the user to recognize that the automatic counting function has been set to off.

In the gaming machine 10, a scene in which counting is possible may occur during the execution of a jackpot performance, a performance game, and a notice performance, which are examples of a predetermined performance. Therefore, the execution period of the counting completion notification, the automatic counting start notification, and the automatic counting cancellation notification may overlap at least partially with the execution period of these predetermined performances. The priority of the counting completion notification may be higher than the priority of the predetermined performance. The priority of the automatic counting start notification may be higher than the priority of the predetermined performance. The priority of the automatic counting cancellation notification may be higher than the priority of the predetermined performance. Here, in order to increase the priority of the audio notification compared to the audio performance, the volume of the audio notification may be set to 0 (stopped) or lower than the volume of the audio notification during the execution period of the audio notification. In order to increase the priority of the display notification compared to the display performance, the object of the display notification may be placed in a control layer with a higher priority than the object of the display performance. In order to increase the priority of the light emission notification compared to the light emission performance, the light emission performance may be stopped during the execution period of the light emission notification.

In the gaming machine 10, a situation may occur in which counting is possible while an error notification is being executed. Therefore, the execution period of counting-related notifications such as the counting completion notification, the automatic counting start notification, and the automatic counting cancellation notification may overlap at least partially with the execution period of the error notification. The priority of the counting completion notification may be lower than the priority of the error notification. The priority of the automatic counting start notification may be lower than the priority of the error notification. The priority of the automatic counting cancellation notification may be lower than the priority of the error notification. Not limited to this, the priority of the counting-related notification may be higher than the priority of the error notification. Furthermore, the priority of any one or more of the counting completion notification, the automatic counting start notification, and the automatic counting cancellation notification may be lower than the priority of the first error notification, the same as the priority of the second error notification, and higher than the priority of the third error notification.

Here, to give a higher priority to a certain audio alert compared to other audio alerts, the volume of the other audio alerts can be set to 0 (stopped) or made lower than the volume of the certain audio alert while the certain audio alert is being executed. To give a higher priority to a certain display alert compared to other display alerts, an object of the certain display alert can be placed in a control layer that has a higher priority than objects of the other display alerts. To give a higher priority to a certain light alert compared to other light alerts, the other light alerts can be stopped while the certain light alert is being executed.

In addition, to make the priority of a certain voice notification the same as that of other voice notifications, the volume of the certain voice notification and the other voice notifications may be made the same, or each voice notification may be output in parallel at a predetermined specified volume. To make the priority of a certain display notification the same as that of other display notifications, the object of the certain display notification and the object of the other display notification may be made the same size and arranged in the control layer so as not to overlap each other. To make the priority of a certain light emission notification the same as that of other light emission notifications, the certain light emission notification and the other light emission notification may be executed in parallel using different light emission means. For example, in the above example, between the first error notification and the notification regarding the counting, the first error notification may be executed with priority, and the notification regarding the counting may not be executed. For example, between the second error notification and the notification regarding the counting, the second error notification and the notification regarding the counting may be executed simultaneously. For example, between the third error notification and the notification regarding the counting, the notification regarding the counting may be executed with priority, and the third error notification may not be executed.

A specific transition of the number of game media P2 will be described.
FIG. 7 shows the transition of management data when all balls are transferred to the outside when 600 game balls are managed as the number of game media P2 in the gaming machine 10. In this example, it is assumed that there is no increase in the number of game media P2 due to prize balls or loan balls. When transferring game balls, the counting switch 16b is operated in the second operation mode (long press operation). At the start of the operation of the counting switch 16b, the automatic counting function is off, and the operation time of the counting switch 16b until the transfer of all ball game media indicated by the number of game media P2 is completed does not reach the third operation time Tp. The periods T1 to T4 indicate the period T of the information input/output processing. That is, FIG. 7 shows four periods of information input/output processing. As an example, the periods T1 to T3 are 300 ms. As an example, the first operation time Tm is 500 ms, the second operation time Tn is 300 ms, and the third operation time Tp is 40,000 ms.

At time t1, a long press of the counting switch 16b is initiated. At time t2 when the first operation time Tm has elapsed, the initial designated number is confirmed as 250 balls. This designated number is the number of counted balls that can be determined from the counting information generated in the counting information generation process of the normal frame-side processing. If it is determined at time t2 that 250 game balls will be transferred, the number of game media P2 expected after the transfer is 350 balls, as shown in the figure.

At time t2, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. This counting information is not output in the information input/output process (processing of cycle T1) being executed at that time. The counting information is output as a counting notification in the information input/output process of the next cycle T2. At the start of cycle T2, "number of gaming media P2 = 600 balls", "number of gaming balls after subtraction = 350 balls", "number of counted balls = 250 balls", and "cumulative counted balls = 250 balls" are stored in RAM 82c. In cycle T2, first, an information notification including data indicating "number of gaming media P2 = 600 balls" is output. Next, in cycle T2, a counting notification including data indicating "number of counted balls = 250 balls" and data indicating "cumulative counted balls = 250 balls" is output.

By continuing to press and hold the counting switch 16b, the second operation time Tn passes, and when time t3 within cycle T2 is reached, the second instruction number is confirmed as 250 balls. If it is confirmed at time t3 that 250 game balls will be transferred, the number of game media P2 expected after the transfer will be 100 balls, as shown in the figure. At time t3, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. This counting information is not output in the information input/output process being executed at that time (processing of cycle T2). The counting information is output as a counting notification in the information input/output process of the next cycle T3.

After the counting notification is output, cycle T2 ends with the input and output of a loan notification and receipt result. By inputting and outputting the loan notification and input result, the number of game balls equivalent to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification is transferred to the outside. Therefore, at the start of cycle T3, "number of game media P2 = 350", "number of game balls after subtraction = 100 balls", "number of counted balls = 250 balls", and "cumulative number of counted balls = 500 balls" are stored in RAM 82c. In cycle T3, first, an information notification including data indicating "number of game media P2 = 350 balls" is output. Next, in cycle T3, a counting notification including data indicating "number of counted balls = 250 balls" and data indicating "cumulative number of counted balls = 500 balls" is output.

By continuing to press and hold the counting switch 16b, the second operation time Tn passes, and when time t4 in cycle T3 is reached, the third instruction number is confirmed as 100 balls. At this stage, the number of game balls counted as counting information out of the number of game media P2 is 100 balls. If it is confirmed at time t4 that 100 game balls will be transferred, the number of game media P2 assumed as the number of game balls after transfer becomes 0 (zero), as shown in the figure. At time t4, data indicating 100 balls is generated as counting information. This counting information is not output in the information input/output process being executed at that time (processing of cycle T3), but is output as a counting notification in the information input/output process of the next cycle T4.

After the counting notification is output, cycle T3 ends with the input and output of the loan notification and the receipt result. By inputting and outputting the loan notification and the input result, the number of game balls equivalent to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification is transferred to the outside. Therefore, at the start of cycle T4, "number of game media P2 = 100 balls", "number of game balls after subtraction = 0 balls", "number of counted balls = 100 balls", and "cumulative number of counted balls = 600 balls" are stored in RAM 82c. In cycle T4, first, an information notification including data indicating "number of game media P2 = 100 balls" is output. Next, in cycle T4, a counting notification including data indicating "number of counted balls = 100 balls" and data indicating "cumulative number of counted balls = 600 balls" is output.

After the counting notification is output, the cycle T4 ends after the input and output of the loan notification and the receipt result. By inputting and outputting the loan notification and the loan receipt, the number of game balls equivalent to the number of counted balls output in the counting notification is transferred to the outside. Therefore, from time t5 when the next cycle of cycle T4 starts, RAM 82c stores "number of game media P2 = 0 balls", "number of game balls after subtraction = 0 balls", "number of counted balls = 0 balls", and "cumulative number of counted balls = 600 balls". As a result, all of the game balls equivalent to "number of game media P2 = 600 balls" have been transferred to the outside. Then, at time t5 when the counting of the number of game media P2 is completed, a counting completion notification is started, and the counting completion notification is ended after a predetermined period has elapsed. In addition, the time from when the counting switch 16b is started to when the number of balls to be counted is completed is 1100 ms in total, which does not exceed the third operation time Tp (4000 ms in this case). Therefore, the automatic counting function remains off and does not turn on.

Figure 8 shows a situation where the automatic counting function is off at the start of the long press operation using the counting switch 16b, and the operation time of the counting switch 16b reaches the third operation time Tp before the transfer of all ball game media indicated by the number of game media P2 is completed. As an example, the number of game media P2 may be 3001 balls or more. Note that the determination of the instruction number (number of counted balls) and the counting notification, loan notification, and input/output of the receipt result that are performed after the generation of the counting information are the same as in the situation described above, so detailed explanations are omitted. As an example, the automatic counting time Tq is 300 ms, the same as the second operation time Tn.

At time t11, a long press of the counting switch 16b is initiated. At time t12, when the first operation time Tm has elapsed, the initial designated number is confirmed as 250 balls. This designated number becomes the number of counted balls that can be determined from the counting information generated in the counting information generation process of the normal frame-side processing. At time t12, data indicating 250 balls is generated as the counting information. At times t13 and t14, when the second operation time Tn has elapsed, the designated number is confirmed as 250 balls. At each of times t13 and t14, data indicating 250 balls is generated as the counting information.

The automatic counting function remains OFF from time t11 when the operation of the counting switch 16b is started to time t15 when the third operation time Tp has elapsed. At time t15 when the third operation time Tp has elapsed, the automatic counting function is set ON. At time t15 when the automatic counting function is set ON, an automatic counting start notification is started, and after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the automatic counting start notification is ended.

Just before the automatic counting function is switched on, at time t16, when the automatic counting time Tq has elapsed from time t14, when the final number of balls indicated is 250 based on the long press of the counting switch 16b, the initial number indicated by the automatic counting function is determined to be 250 balls. At time t16, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information.

At time t17, the long press of the counting switch 16b ends. When the automatic counting function is set to ON, the automatic counting function remains ON even after the long press of the counting switch 16b ends. At times t18 and t19, when the automatic counting time Tq has elapsed, the indicated number is confirmed as 250 balls. At each of times t18 and t19, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information.

After that, automatic counting continues until the number of gaming media P2 becomes 0, even if the counting switch 16b is not operated. In other words, until the number of gaming media P2 becomes 0, counting information is generated with the specified number (number of counted balls) set to 250 balls or the number of gaming media P2, and output to the management device 90. Then, when the number of gaming media P2 becomes 0 and counting is completed, a counting completion notification is initiated, and the counting completion notification is terminated after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

Figure 9 shows a situation in which the automatic counting function is on and automatic counting is being performed when the counting switch 16b is pressed and held down. It shows a situation in which the number of game media P2 is one or more balls when the counting switch 16b is pressed and held.

When the automatic counting function is on, the indicated number is confirmed as 250 balls at each of the times t21 to t25 when the automatic counting time Tq has elapsed. At each of the times t21 to t25, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. At time t26, it is assumed that the counting switch 16b is operated in a predetermined manner. Note that in this case, it is assumed that the counting switch 16b is pressed and held. At time t26, the automatic counting function is set to off. At time t26 when the automatic counting function is set to off, an automatic counting cancellation notification is initiated, and the automatic counting cancellation notification is terminated after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

By continuing to press and hold the counting switch 16b, at time t27 when the first operation time Tm has elapsed since the start of the long press of the counting switch 16b, the number of balls indicated based on the long press is determined to be 250 balls. At time t27, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. By continuing to press and hold the counting switch 16b, at time t28 when the second operation time Tn has elapsed, the second number of balls indicated is determined to be 250 balls. At time t28, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. Thereafter, counting information indicating 250 game balls is generated each time the second operation time Tn has elapsed until the operation of the counting switch 16b is ended or the number of game media P2 becomes 0.

In the gaming machine 10, the automatic counting function is not set to ON even if the long press operation that triggered the automatic counting function to be set to OFF continues and the third operation time Tp has elapsed since the long press operation began. Not limited to this, the automatic counting function may be reset to ON when the long press operation that triggered the automatic counting function to be set to OFF continues and the third operation time Tp has elapsed since the long press operation began. Also, when the automatic counting function is set to ON, in a scene where the counting switch 16b is short pressed, the automatic counting function is set to OFF, but depending on the operation, counting information indicating one ball as the number of counted balls may not be generated. Not limited to this, counting information indicating one ball as the number of counted balls may be generated based on the short press operation that triggered the automatic counting function to be set to OFF.

Figure 10 shows a situation in which the power supply is cut off and then resumed while automatic counting is being performed because the automatic counting function is on. The automatic counting function is turned on based on a long press of the counting switch 16b, and it is assumed that the long press continues across the cutoff and resumption of the power supply.

The counting switch 16b is pressed and held for a long time, and at time t31 when the second operation time Tn has elapsed, the indicated number is determined to be 250 balls. At time t31, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information. At time t32 when the third operation time Tp has elapsed since the press and hold operation was started, the automatic counting function is set to ON. At time t32 when the automatic counting function is set to ON, an automatic counting start notification is initiated, and after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the automatic counting start notification is terminated. When the automatic counting function is ON, the indicated number is determined to be 250 balls at each of times t33 to t36 when the automatic counting time Tq has elapsed. At each of times t33 to t36, data indicating 250 balls is generated as counting information.

At time t37, the power supply is cut off, as shown in the figure as "power off". At time t38, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the power supply is resumed, as shown in the figure as "power restored", the frame-side power-on process is completed, the frame-side normal process is started, and the counting state is transitioned to. Here, since the automatic counting flag is information that is not subject to backup, the automatic counting function is reset to OFF. At this time t38, even if the counting switch 16b is continuously operated, the CPU 82a does not start the first operation timer and the second operation timer. The CPU 82a does not monitor whether the first operation time Tm and the third operation time Tp have elapsed. In other words, even if the first operation time Tm has elapsed since time t38, the CPU 82a does not generate counting information. Even if the third operation time Tp has elapsed since time t38, the CPU 82a keeps the automatic counting function OFF and does not set it to ON. In addition, when the counting switch 16b is pressed or pressed for a long time again after the operation of the counting switch 16b is ended, the CPU 82a confirms the number of indications corresponding to these operations and generates counting information. Similarly, when the counting switch 16b is pressed and pressed for a long time longer than the third operation time Tp after the operation of the counting switch 16b is ended, the CPU 82a sets the automatic counting function to ON.

When the power supply is cut off while a specific control is being executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine based on a specific mode operation, if the power supply is resumed, the specific control is not executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine based on the specific mode operation even if the specific mode operation has been ongoing since before the power supply was resumed. The operation that sets the second control mode includes a specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time of the counting switch 16b is equal to or longer than a specified time. As described above, an example of a specific mode operation is a long press operation.

In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) In the first control mode, the player can transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine by performing a specific operation. On the other hand, in the second control mode, the player can transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine without performing a specific operation. In this way, it is possible to provide the player with a function to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation, and a function to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine without requiring a specific operation. This can increase the convenience for the player.

(2) In the second control mode, the gaming medium can be transferred to the outside of the machine without operating any operating means. As an example, the operating means is the counting switch 16b. This can increase convenience for the player.

(3) The second control mode can be released by operating the operating means, which can improve convenience for the player.
(4) By using the operating means, specific information (for example, counting information) may be output so that the game medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in different manners depending on whether the first operation, the second operation, or the third operation is performed. This may improve the convenience of the player. For example, the first operation is a short press operation, the second operation is a long press operation that exceeds the first operation time Tm and does not exceed the third operation time Tp, and the third operation is a long press operation that exceeds the third operation time Tp.

(5) The situation in which a predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine in the second control mode can be recognized by a player, etc., through a predetermined notification. As an example, the predetermined notification is an automatic counting start notification. Therefore, the player, etc. can easily understand that the transfer of the gaming medium is being performed in the second control mode. This can increase convenience for the player.

(6) The number of gaming media P2 is notified by display, while the transfer of gaming media in the second control mode is notified by sound. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which a specific notification is made by display, it is possible to prevent the progress of the transfer of gaming media in the second control mode from becoming difficult to see.

(7) The specified notification is executed by a performance execution means (e.g., performance device ES) capable of executing the specified performance, so the configuration of the gaming machine 10 can be simplified compared to a configuration in which a dedicated notification means is provided. Furthermore, the priority of the specified notification is higher than the priority of the specified performance, so it is possible to prevent the player from overlooking the specified notification.

(8) Depending on whether the first operation, second operation, or third operation is performed using the operating means, specific information can be output so that the gaming medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in a different manner. The situation in which specific information is output so that the gaming medium is transferred in the third manner can be recognized by a predetermined notification to the player, etc. Therefore, the player, etc. can easily understand that the transfer is taking place in the third manner. This can increase convenience for the player.

(9) In the second control mode, more game media can be transferred to the outside of the machine with fewer operations of the operating means than in the first control mode. This can improve convenience for players.

(10) According to the third operation, all of the electronically managed gaming media can be transferred to an external device. This makes it easier for the player to understand the relationship between the operating mode of the operating means and the number of gaming media transferred. As an example, the operating means is the counting switch 16b. As an example, the third operation is a long press operation that exceeds the third operation time Tp.

(11) Depending on whether the first operation, second operation, or third operation is performed using the operating means, specific information can be output so that the gaming medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in a different manner. Furthermore, with the third operation, more gaming media can be transferred to the outside of the machine than with the first operation and the second operation. This can increase convenience for the player.

(12) A specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time is equal to or exceeds a specified time is a so-called "long press operation." Even if such a specific mode operation continues, if power is restored during that time, the specified control for transferring the gaming medium to the outside of the machine after power is restored is stopped. For example, when there is an erroneous operation of the operating means or an erroneous detection of an operation, it is possible to prevent the gaming medium from being transferred to the outside of the machine when the power supply is resumed. This can increase convenience for the player.

(13) Even if the power supply is resumed, once the specific mode operation is terminated, specific information can be output in accordance with the specific mode information, thereby improving convenience for the player.
(14) Depending on whether the first operation, second operation, or third operation is performed using the operating means, specific information may be output so that the game medium is transferred to the outside of the machine in a different manner. Here, the specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time is equal to or longer than a specified time is a so-called "long press operation." Even if such a specific mode operation is continued, if power is restored during that time, the output of the specific information is stopped after power is restored. For example, when the operating means is erroneously operated or an operation is erroneously detected, it is possible to prevent the specific information from being output when the power supply is resumed. This can improve the convenience of the player.

The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows. The above-described embodiment and the following modified examples can be combined together as long as they are not technically inconsistent.

- As shown in FIG. 11, when the gaming machine 10 is in the second control mode (automatic counting function is on), it may be configured to be able to notify the player that the number of gaming media P2 has reached a specific number (hereinafter referred to as a specific number notification) as the automatic counting progresses. As an example, the specific number may be 250 balls. As an example, the specific number may be a number of balls exceeding 250 balls. When the automatic counting function is on, the CPU 82a sets the automatic counting function to off at time t43 when the number of gaming media P2 reaches a specific number due to the transfer of gaming media. At this time, the CPU 82a outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a specific number command) to the gaming control board 80. When the CPU 80a inputs the specific number command, it outputs predetermined control information (hereinafter referred to as a specific number notification command) to the performance control board 81.

When the CPU 81a inputs the specific number notification command, it controls some or all of the presentation devices 17-19 that make up the presentation equipment ES to execute the specific number notification. The specific number notification is executed in a manner that outputs a sound that allows the player to recognize that the number of gaming media P2 has reached a specific number as the automatic counting progresses. As an example, the specific number notification may include outputting a specific number sound from the sound presentation device 17. As an example, the specific number sound may be a sound effect such as "ping-pong." As an example, the specific number sound may be a human voice reading out the string of characters "You have 250 balls remaining. Would you like to continue automatic counting?"

As one example, the specific number notification may include displaying on the display performance device 19 information (hereinafter referred to as specific number information) that allows recognition that the number of gaming media P2 has reached a specific number as the automatic counting progresses. As one example, the specific number information may be a string of characters such as "There are now 250 balls remaining. Would you like to continue automatic counting?" As one example, the specific number notification may include illuminating, extinguishing, or lighting the light-emitting performance device 18 in a light-emitting pattern that allows recognition that the number of gaming media P2 has reached a specific number as the automatic counting progresses.

- The gaming machine 10 may be configured to be capable of issuing a notification (hereinafter referred to as a counting notification) that a count has been issued in conjunction with the counting. When the number of gaming media P2 is reduced in accordance with the counting, the CPU 81a controls some or all of the performance devices 17-19 that constitute the performance equipment ES to issue a counting notification. As an example, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of issuing a counting notification (hereinafter referred to as a first counting notification) indicating that the counting of gaming balls based on a short press operation has been issued. The first counting notification can also be considered as a notification indicating the transfer of one gaming ball. As an example, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of issuing a counting notification (hereinafter referred to as a second counting notification) indicating that the counting of gaming balls based on a long press operation has been issued. The second counting notification can also be considered as a notification indicating that a maximum of 250 gaming balls have been transferred. As an example, the gaming machine 10 may be capable of executing a counting notification (hereinafter referred to as a third counting notification) indicating that automatic counting of game balls has been performed with the passage of the automatic counting time Tq based on the second control mode. The third counting notification may also be a notification indicating that a maximum of 250 game balls have been transferred. The first counting notification, the second counting notification, and the third counting notification may be different from each other. The second counting notification and the third counting notification may be the same. In this case, the first counting notification may be the same as one or both of the second counting notification and the third counting notification, or may be different from either of them. Note that when at least one of the notification sound, notification image, and notification light emission pattern is different, the notification notification is different from each other, and when all of them are the same, the notification notification is the same. According to this modified example, the counting notification is executed every time a counting is performed, so that the progress of the counting can be easily understood.

- The gaming machine 10 may have an operation unit configured to enable an operation to set the automatic counting function to ON, separate from the counting switch 16b. The gaming machine 10 may have an operation unit configured to enable an operation to set the automatic counting function to OFF, separate from the counting switch 16b.

- When the automatic counting function is on, the CPU 82a may set the automatic counting function to off when the number of game media P2 becomes 0 as a result of the progress of automatic counting. This is not limited to the above, and the CPU 82a may keep the automatic counting function on.

- The automatic counting start notification, automatic counting stop notification, specific number notification, and counting completion notification may be performed by a notification means other than the performance equipment ES. In other words, these counting-related notifications may be performed by dedicated notification means.

- The automatic counting flag may be information that is to be backed up. In other words, if the automatic counting function is on when the power supply is cut off, the CPU 82a may control the automatic counting function to be on when the power supply is resumed. If the automatic counting function is off when the power supply is cut off, the CPU 82a may control the automatic counting function to be off when the power supply is resumed.

- Even if the power supply is cut off during counting execution, the CPU 82a may resume the transfer of the game medium from the state where the power supply was cut off if the power supply is resumed with the counting switch 16b still in the operated state. For example, in the scene illustrated in FIG. 10, the CPU 82a may be able to output specific information when a specific mode operation (for example, a long press operation) is ended and then started again in a situation where the power supply is resumed, and the output of specific information may be restricted until a specified condition is satisfied. As an example, the specified condition may be that a specified time has elapsed since the power supply was resumed. According to this modified example, the desired process can be executed preferentially during the specified time.

- The difference ball monitoring process (counting the difference ball PC) may be executed by the game control board 80 (CPU 80a). In this case, the game board 20 is equipped with an out ball sensor that detects "out balls" discharged from the game area 21a, and the CPU 80a may subtract 1 from the difference ball PC each time it receives a detection signal from the out ball sensor. When the difference ball PC reaches the activation reference number and the activation condition of the complete function is met, the CPU 80a outputs a launch stop signal to the frame control board 82 (launch permission circuit 82m). Even in this modified example, the launch of game balls can be stopped in response to the activation of the complete function.

- The gaming machine 10 can adopt a specification that provides a high probability state until the next big win game, a specification that provides a high probability state until a fall lottery is won (a so-called fall machine), or a specification that provides a high probability state until a specified number of variable games are completed (a so-called ST machine). The gaming machine 10 can adopt a specification that provides a high probability state on the condition that the gaming ball passes through a specified area (a so-called "V area") (a so-called V-variable machine). The gaming machine 10 may be a specification that combines the specifications of a fall machine and a V-variable machine.

- In addition to the big win lottery, the special symbol winning lottery may be configured to include a small win lottery. If a small win is won in the winning lottery, a small win game (winning game) is awarded after the special game ends. In this embodiment, the system may be configured to be controllable to a state (so-called small win rush) in which the number of times (frequency) a small win is won per unit time or the number of times (frequency) a small win game is awarded per unit time is increased compared to a normal game state (for example, a low probability, low ball entry rate state).

- The gaming machine 10 may adopt a specification classified as the second type, also known as a "wing type" or "airplane type." In this type of pachinko gaming machine, when a gaming ball enters the starting hole, the opening and closing blades (opening and closing members) of the ball entry device (big prize entry hole) open, and the gaming ball that entered the ball entry device enters the special prize hole, generating a big win game.

The specific configuration of the game board 20 may be changed as desired.
The CPU 80a, the ROM 80b, the RAM 80c, and the random number generation circuit 80d may be configured on a single chip.

- The performance control board 81 may be a sub-general control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the display performance device 19, a light-emitting control board that specializes in controlling the light-emitting performance device 18, and a sound control board that specializes in controlling the sound performance device 17 may be provided separately from the performance control board 81. Such a sub-general control board and boards that control other performances may be collectively referred to as a sub-board. Also, in an embodiment, a single board may be equipped with CPU 80a and CPU 81a. Also, the display control board, light-emitting control board, and sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single or multiple boards.

- Although the gaming machine 10 is configured as a gaming machine that internally manages the number of gaming media P2, the gaming media may be actual gaming balls. In this case, the gaming machine 10 is equipped with a ball tray for storing gaming balls, an ejection button that can be operated to eject gaming balls from the ball tray, and an ejection sensor that detects gaming balls ejected from the ball tray. The gaming machine 10 may then output counting information that can identify the results detected by the ejection sensor (number of gaming balls) to the management device 90.

The gaming machine may be embodied as a rotating gaming machine (so-called slot machine). In this modified example, the gaming machine has multiple reels, a bet button, a start lever, and a stop button. Each reel has multiple symbols arranged thereon. The gaming machine electronically manages the number of gaming media. In the gaming machine, the number of gaming media can be decreased and the number of bets can be increased by operating the bet button. In the gaming machine, when the number of bets is a specified number of bets, a variable game can be executed by operating the start lever. In the gaming machine, the right to the variable game can be acquired in a second situation in which a specific event occurs in exchange for the consumption of media. The variable game is executed by rotating multiple reels. In the gaming machine, the rotation of each reel can be stopped by operating the stop button. Then, the gaming machine awards various benefits (prizes) according to the combination of symbols displayed by the stopping of each reel.

Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and other examples will be described below.
(Appendix 1A) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media that can be used for gaming; an operation means that can be operated by a player; and a control means that can execute control related to the transfer of the gaming media, wherein the control modes related to the transfer of the gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode, and in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media outside the machine in response to a specific operation using the operation means, and in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media outside the machine without the specific operation.

(Appendix 1B) A gaming machine as described in Appendix 1A, in which in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming medium to the outside of the machine without requiring operation of the operating means.
(Appendix 1C) A gaming machine described in Appendix 1A or Appendix 1B, wherein the second control mode can be released by operating the operating means.

(Appendix 1D) A gaming machine comprising: management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; operation means operable by a player; and output means for outputting specific information regarding the transfer of gaming media, wherein specific information is output based on a first operation of the operation means so as to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a first manner; specific information is output based on a second operation of the operation means so as to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a second manner; and specific information is output based on a third operation of the operation means so as to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a third manner.

(Appendix 2A) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; an operation means operable by a player; a control means for executing control relating to the transfer of gaming media; and a notification means, wherein the control modes relating to the transfer of gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode, wherein in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the operation means, and in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine without performing the specific operation, and a predetermined notification is issued in a situation in which the predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in the second control mode.

(Supplementary Note 2B) A gaming machine as described in Supplementary Note 2A, which is provided with a display means for displaying the number of gaming media, and the predetermined notification is made by audio output.
(Appendix 2C) A gaming machine as described in Appendix 2A or Appendix 2B, wherein the notification means is also used as an effect execution means capable of executing a specified effect, and the priority of the specified notification is higher than the priority of the specified effect.

(Appendix 2D) The gaming machine described in any one of Appendices 2A to 2B, in which the notification means is also used as a performance execution means capable of executing a predetermined performance, and the execution period of the predetermined notification and the execution period of the predetermined performance may overlap at least partially.

(Appendix 2E) A gaming machine according to any one of Appendices 2A to 2D, wherein the notification means is used in combination with all or part of the performance execution means.
(Appendix 2F) A gaming machine described in any one of Appendices 2A to 2E, wherein the notification means is different from all of the performance execution means.

(Appendix 2G) A gaming machine comprising: management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; operation means operable by a player; output means for outputting specific information regarding the transfer of gaming media; and notification means, wherein specific information is output so that the gaming media is transferred to the outside of the machine in a first manner based on a first operation of the operation means; specific information is output so that the gaming media is transferred to the outside of the machine in a second manner based on a second operation of the operation means; specific information is output so that the gaming media is transferred to the outside of the machine in a third manner based on a third operation of the operation means; and a predetermined notification is given in a situation where specific information is output so that the gaming media is transferred to the outside of the machine in the third manner.

(Appendix 3A) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; an operation means operable by a player; and a control means for executing control relating to the transfer of gaming media; the control modes relating to the transfer of gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode; in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the operation means; in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine without the specific operation; and the amount of operation of the operation means required to transfer more than a predetermined number of gaming media to the outside of the machine is less in the second control mode than in the first control mode.

(Appendix 3B) The gaming machine described in Appendix 3A, in which the operation means is capable of a specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time is equal to or longer than a specified time, and the predetermined number is the number of gaming media that are transferred to the outside of the machine when a predetermined amount of the specific mode operation is performed as the specific operation.

(Appendix 3C) A gaming machine comprising: management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; operation means operable by a player; and output means for outputting specific information regarding the transfer of gaming media, wherein specific information is output based on a first operation of the operation means so as to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine in a first manner; specific information is output based on a second operation of the operation means so as to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine in a second manner; specific information is output based on a third operation of the operation means so as to transfer gaming media to the outside of the machine in a third manner; the output of specific information based on the first operation or the second operation can be executed so as to transfer a first specified number of gaming media to the outside of the machine; and the output of specific information based on the third operation can be executed so as to transfer a second specified number of gaming media, which is greater than the first specified number, to the outside of the machine.

(Appendix 4A) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media that can be used for gaming; an operation means operable by a player; and a control means for executing control related to the transfer of gaming media; the control modes related to the transfer of gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode; in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the operation means; in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine without the specific operation; the operation for setting the second control mode includes a specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time of the operation means is equal to or longer than a specified time; the second control mode is set based on the specific mode operation; when the power supply is cut off while the predetermined control is being executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine, when the power supply is resumed, the predetermined control is not executed based on the specific mode operation, even if the specific mode operation has been continuing since before the power supply was resumed.

(Appendix 4B) A gaming machine as described in appendix 4A or appendix 4B, in which, in a situation where the power supply is resumed, when the specific mode operation is terminated and then started again, a predetermined control may be executed to transfer the gaming medium to an outside of the machine.

(Appendix 4C) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media that can be used for gaming; an operation means operable by a player; and a control means for executing control relating to the transfer of gaming media; a predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a first mode based on a first specific operation of the operation means; a predetermined control is executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a second mode based on a second specific operation of the operation means; at least one of the first specific operation and the second specific operation includes a specific mode operation whose continuous operation time is equal to or longer than a specified time; and when the power supply is cut off while the predetermined control is being executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine based on one of the first specific operation and the second specific operation, when the power supply is resumed, the predetermined control is not executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine based on the specific mode operation, even if the specific mode operation has been continuing since before the power supply was resumed.

(Appendix 4D) A gaming machine comprising: a management means for electronically managing gaming media that can be used for gaming; an operation means operable by a player; and a control means for executing control related to the transfer of gaming media; the control modes related to the transfer of gaming media include a first control mode and a second control mode; in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in response to a specific operation using the operation means; and in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine without the specific operation being performed; the specific operation includes a specific mode operation in which the continuous operation time of the operation means is equal to or longer than a specified time; and when the power supply is cut off while the predetermined control is being executed to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine based on the specific mode operation, when the power supply is resumed, the predetermined control is not executed based on the specific mode operation, even if the specific mode operation has been continuing since before the power supply was resumed.

(Appendix 4E) A gaming machine comprising: management means for electronically managing gaming media available for gaming; operation means operable by a player; and output means for outputting specific information relating to the transfer of gaming media; specific information is output based on a first operation of the operation means to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a first mode; specific information is output based on a second operation of the operation means to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a second mode; specific information is output based on a third operation of the operation means to transfer the gaming media to the outside of the machine in a third mode; at least one of the second operation and the third operation includes a specific mode operation whose continuous operation time is equal to or longer than a specified time; and when the power supply is cut off while the specific information is being output based on one of the second operation and the third operation, in a situation where the power supply is resumed, the specific information is not re-output based on the specific mode operation even if the specific mode operation has been continuing since before the power supply was resumed.

10... Game machine 16a... Game media number display unit 16b... Counting switch 17... Audio effect device 18... Light-emitting effect device 19... Display effect device 80... Game control board 80a... CPU 81... Effect control board 81a... CPU 82... Frame control board 82a... CPU 90... Management device ES... Effect device

Claims (1)

A management means for electronically managing game media that can be used for a game;
An operation means operable by a player;
A control means capable of executing control regarding the transfer of game media;
A notification means,
The control modes relating to the transfer of the game medium include a first control mode and a second control mode, and in the first control mode, a predetermined control can be executed so as to transfer the game medium to the outside of the machine in response to a first operation using the operating means, and in the second control mode, a predetermined control can be executed so as to transfer the game medium to the outside of the machine even without the first operation;
In a situation where a predetermined control is executed to transfer the game medium to the outside of the machine in the second control mode, a control notification is performed to enable the player to recognize that the game medium has been controlled to the second control mode ;
The control notification can be executed even during the execution of a big win performance executed during a big win game,
When the control mode is the first control mode, the control mode can be changed to the second control mode in response to a second operation using the operation means,
When the control mode is the second control mode, the control mode can be changed to the first control mode in response to a third operation using the operation means,
the first operation and the second operation are operations of operating the operation means for a longer period of time than the third operation,
A gaming machine characterized in that when the gaming machine is controlled to the first control mode in response to the third operation using the operating means, if the operation of the operating means is continued after the gaming machine is controlled to the first control mode, the gaming machine is not controlled to the second control mode .

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