JPH04105673A - Pinball machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide a pinball machine capable of creating fun rich in variation by providing a special variable prize winning ball device capable of providing variably a first condition advantageous to a player and a second condition disadvantageous to the player to give variation to a start prize winning region. CONSTITUTION:A game region 223 into which pinballs are projected by a ball projecting device is provided in the nearly central part with a special variable prize winning ball device 1 which is provided with opening and closing blade pieces 99a, 99b opened and closed by an opening and closing blade piece solenoid 11 as an example of a drive source. While the blade pieces 99a, 99b are alternately opened and closed as shown, a first condition under which a shot ball is liable to win a prize advantageously to a player and a second condition under which the shot ball does not win the prize disadvantageously to the player while the blade pieces 99a, 99b are opened are provided. When the shot ball wins in the normal variable prize winning ball device, the special variable prize winning ball device is driven to the first condition for a relatively short period by the action of a normal prize winning corresponding type drive controlling means so that the shot ball is set to a condition capable of winning the prize in a specified prize winning region.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Industrial Application Field] The present invention relates to a pinball game machine represented by a pachinko game machine, a coin game machine, etc. A variable winning ball device is provided that can change to a second state that is disadvantageous to the player, and when the variable winning ball device is driven to the first state for a relatively short period of time, When a pachinko ball that has entered the ball enters a specific winning area formed at a predetermined location within the variable winning ball device, the variable winning ball device will continue to play the first game for a relatively long period of time until a predetermined regulation condition is met. The present invention relates to a pinball game machine that is driven and controlled to generate a jackpot state.

[Prior Art] In this type of pinball game machine, a conventionally known technique includes, for example, a variable winning ball device that is set in the first state for a relatively short period of time when a ball starts winning. Drive to,
If a pachinko ball that enters the variable winning ball device that is in the first state enters a specific winning area, the variable winning ball device will remain in the first state for a relatively long period of time until a predetermined regulation condition is met. Furthermore, if the pachinko ball that entered the variable winning ball device during the first state over a relatively long period enters the specific winning area, the variable winning ball device Some devices perform repetitive and continuous control in which the motor is once brought to the second state and then repeatedly driven to the first state.

The system is configured to generate a jackpot state in which the variable prize winning ball device is kept in the first state for a relatively long period of time, thereby giving a relatively large amount of gaming value to the player and providing the real thrill of the game.

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] On the other hand, in this type of conventional pinball game machine, the variable winning ball device remains in the first state for a relatively short period of time based on the winning of a ball in the starting winning area. The ball is driven and controlled to be in a state where it can win a prize in a specific winning area. In other words, when the ball hits the starting prize area, the player has a chance to win a jackpot.
For players, it is of great interest whether or not the ball they hit wins a prize in the starting prize area. However, in this conventional pinball game machine, it consisted of a starting winning area, which is the focus of the player's attention, and an area where the hit ball simply wins, which does not change in any way. The drawback was that it didn't offer much fun.

In view of these circumstances, the present invention focuses on the fact that the starting winning area is the focus of players' attention, and by providing variation in the starting winning area, it is possible to create a variety of entertainment. The purpose is to provide ball game machines.

[Means for Solving the Problems] The present invention provides a special variable winning ball device that can change between a first state that is advantageous for the player and a second state that is disadvantageous for the player, and a special variable winning ball device that is based on the winning of a hit ball. and a special start winning ball detection means for detecting a winning pressure that enters the special starting winning ball area. and a specific winning ball detection means that horizontally compares specific person prize balls that have won in a specific winning area formed at a predetermined location in the special variable winning ball device, based on the detection output of the special start winning ball detection means. The special variable winning ball device is driven to a first state for a relatively short period of time, and a ball that enters the special variable winning ball device in the first state enters the specific winning region. Based on the detected output of the specific winning ball detection means, the special variable winning ball device is driven and controlled to the first state for a relatively long period until a predetermined regulation condition is satisfied, and the relatively Based on the fact that a hit ball that has entered the special variable winning ball device that is driven in the first state for a long period of time enters the specific winning ball area and the detection output of the specific winning ball detection means is compared. , a pinball game machine comprising drive control means for repeatedly driving the special variable winning ball device once into the second state and then back to the first state, the machine being capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information. a variable display device; a variable probability setting means capable of variably setting a probability that a display result of the variable display device when stopped becomes predetermined identification information; a normal start winning area, a normal start winning ball detection means for detecting the winning balls that have entered the normal start winning area, and a variable display on the variable display device based on the detection output of the normal start winning ball detection means. , further comprising variable display control means for controlling the variable display of the variable display device to stop based on establishment of a predetermined stop condition.

The special start winning ball device includes a normal variable winning ball device that can change between a first state that is advantageous to the player and a second state that is disadvantageous to the player, and the normal variable winning ball device is
At least, when the display result at the time of stop of the variable display device becomes the predetermined identification information, the drive is controlled to be in the first state until a predetermined regulation condition is satisfied, and the special start winning ball detection means: The normal variable winning ball device includes a normal winning ball detecting means for detecting a normal winning ball that has won a prize in the normal variable winning ball device, and the drive control means controls the special variable winning ball device based on the detection output of the normal winning ball detecting device. The present invention is characterized in that it includes a drive control means corresponding to normal winnings that maintains the first state for a short period of time.

[Function] According to the present invention, the special starting winning area includes a normal variable winning ball device that changes between a first state that is advantageous to the player and a second state that is disadvantageous to the player, When a ball hits the ball device, the special variable winning ball device is driven to the first state for a relatively short period of time by the normal winning drive control means, and the ball can enter a specific winning area. become. Moreover, the normal variable winning ball device is driven and controlled to the first state when the display result of the variable display device becomes predetermined identification information.

Further, the probability that the display result of the variable winning ball device becomes the predetermined identification information can be variably set on the gaming hall side, and the display control of the identification information when the variable winning ball device is stopped is controlled based on the set value. be done.

[Embodiments of the Invention] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko game machine will be described as an example of a pinball game machine, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may also be applied to a coin game machine or the like in which a game is played by bouncing balls. Including everything.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a game area of a pachinko game machine, which is an example of a pinball game machine, and various devices arranged in the game area.

A special variable winning ball device 1 is provided approximately in the center of a game area 223 into which pachinko balls are hit by a ball hitting device (not shown). This special variable winning ball device 1 is
The opening/closing blade 99a is opened and closed by the opening/closing blade solenoid 11, which is an example of a drive source.

99b is provided, and this opening/closing wing piece 99a.

As shown in the figure, the opening/closing wing pieces 99a, 99b are in a first state advantageous for the player who is likely to hit a prize in a state in which they are alternately changed into an open state and a closed state.
99b is closed, a second state is disadvantageous for a player who does not hit a ball or win a prize. Note that instead of having no pachinko balls win in the second state, the configuration may be such that the pachinko balls are relatively hard to win in the second state. A variable display device 2 is integrally formed in this special variable winning ball device 1. The variable display device 2 includes two variable displays 2a and 2b, and each variable display 2a and 2b is configured to be able to variably display ten types of identification information from 0 to 9.

Below the special variable winning ball device 1, a normal variable winning ball device 6 and special starting winning ball lowers a, 7b are integrally provided. The normal variable winning ball device 6 is composed of a normal electric accessory (commonly known as an electric tulip). Opening/closing is controlled by a tulip solenoid 8, which is an example of a drive source, and the first state is advantageous for players who are more likely to hit a prize with a ball in the open position, and the second state is disadvantageous for a player who is less likely to hit a prize with a ball in an open position. state. In addition, it may be configured such that no winnings can be won at all when the ball is hit in the second state. Further, the first state may be a state in which the variable winning ball device 6 is alternately converted into an open state and an open state. In this embodiment, one normal variable winning ball device 6 is shown, but instead, a plurality of normal variable winning ball devices 6 may be provided, and a special starting winning ball device 6 is provided. a, 7
b may be completely omitted.

When a pachinko ball hit in the game area 223 passes through the normal starting passing port 3, which is an example of the starting winning area, the passing ball is detected by the starting passing ball detector 4, which is an example of starting winning ball detecting means, and Variable display device 2 based on detection output
or variable display.

After the variable display device 2 performs variable display for a certain period of time, each variable display device 2a, 2b is controlled to stop in a predetermined order. If the identification information at the time of stop becomes a predetermined combination (for example, 77), the normal variable winning ball device 6 is controlled to open for a certain period of time by a timer described later. Note that the variable display device 2
may have one variable indicator, or may have three or more variable indicators. Furthermore, although this embodiment is composed of 7-segment LEDs,
The display may be of a rotating disk type, such as a liquid crystal display, an electroluminescent display, a light emitting diode, or a dot matrix, or a rotating drum type. Further, the variable display device 2 is a so-called roulette type device in which a plurality of lamps are lit and run to display a variable display.
It may also be constructed of a rotating disc type, such as a so-called Rotamint. The variable display device 2 may be controlled to stop by the player pressing a stop switch provided at a predetermined location, or a predetermined period of time may elapse without the stop switch being pressed. The stop control may be performed depending on the operation. Furthermore, the display may be displayed variably during normal times, and may be variably started again based on the starting passage of the ball. In that case, it is desirable to change the brightness or change the variable display speed when re-variable display is performed so that the player can recognize the start of variable display.

The pachinko balls that have won in the special start-up winning roll formed by the normal variable winning ball device 6 are detected by the start-up winning ball detector 9, which is an example of normal winning ball detection means. In addition, the pachinko balls that have won in the special starting prize winning Roa are detected by the starting winning ball detector 1.
5a and 15b. Based on the detection output of the starting prize winning ball detector 9, the opening/closing wing solenoid 11 is excited and the opening/closing wings 99a, 99b are controlled to open and close a predetermined number of times (for example, twice). Based on the detection a of the starting prize winning ball detectors 15a, 15b, the opening/closing wing solenoid 11 is excited and the opening/closing wing 99a, 99b is controlled to open/close a predetermined number of times (for example, once). During this opening/closing control, if a pachinko ball enters the special variable winning ball device and wins in the specific winning area (V pocket) 52, the specific winning ball is detected by the specific winning ball detector 12. Based on the detection output, the opening/closing blade solenoid 11 is energized and the opening/closing blade 99a is energized.
, 99b are controlled to open and close, the special variable prize winning ball device 1 enters the first state advantageous to the player, and a jackpot state occurs. Pachinko balls that have won in the special variable winning ball device 1 which is in this first state are detected by the winning number detector 13, and the winning number is displayed on the winning number display 14 based on the detection output. . The first state of the variable winning ball device 1 is the condition that a predetermined number of pachinko balls (for example, 10) are won or the opening/closing wings 99a, 99b are opened/closed a predetermined number of times (for example, 18 times), whichever comes first. continues until it is established. If a pachinko ball that enters the special variable winning ball device 1 that changes to the first state in accordance with the jackpot state enters the specific winning area (Pocket) 52, the specific winning ball becomes the specific winning ball. It is detected by the detector 10.

Based on the detection output of the specific winning ball detector, the opening/closing wings 99a, 99b which are being opened/closed are once closed to the second state, and the opening/closing wings 99a, 99b are opened/closed again.
The state number is repeatedly controlled.

The upper limit of this repeated continuation control is set to, for example, 15 times. In the figure, 98 is a sorting device, and the pachinko balls that have won in the special variable winning ball device 1 are sorted by this sorting device 98 and placed in the specific winning area 52 or the normal winning areas on the left and right thereof, 52a52b. . The special variable winning ball device 1 may be a storage type variable winning ball device that temporarily stores winning pachinko balls until a predetermined condition is met.

In the figure, 146 is a control board box, and the variable display device 2
It has the function of driving and controlling etc. This control board box 146 is provided with a key-insertion type mode setting section 147, and a game mode can be switched from the game mode to the setting mode by inserting a predetermined key into the mode setting section 147 or by an attendant at the game center. can. This switching is detected by the mode detector 148, and a setting mode, which will be described later, is entered. When the game center staff inserts a predetermined pin into the pin insertion type setting operation section 149 in the setting mode, the setting operation detector 150 detects the insertion operation.

Depending on the number of times the pin is inserted, the probability that the display result when the normal variable display device 2 is stopped will be the predetermined identification information is variably set, as will be described later. The display of the variable display device 2 is normally controlled based on the variably set setting value as will be described later, and the predetermined identification information is generated based on the set predetermined probability. This mode setting section 147, mode ratio ratio 148. Setting operation section 149.
The setting operation detector 150 constitutes a probability variable setting means that can variably set the probability that the display result when the variable display device is stopped becomes predetermined identification information. Note that the set value of the probability set by the setting operation section 149 is displayed, for example, on the normal variable display device 2 when in the setting mode.

When the game hall attendant finishes the probability variable setting operation, the mode setting section 147 is switched to the game mode to enable the game. In the state where the game mode is switched, the probability setting value is normally not displayed on the variable display device 2. Further, a display device for displaying the probability setting value may be provided at an arbitrary location such as the control board box 146.

Although not shown, the balls hit into the game area 223 are detected by the ball detector, and the supply balls refilled to the prize ball tank (not shown) of the pachinko game machine are detected by the supply ball detector. , these rain detection abilities are used for game control as described later.

In addition, in this embodiment, the top of the supply is detected and counted as a profit ball for the player, but instead of the top of the supply, safe balls may be detected and counted. The prize balls paid out may also be detected and counted. Also, instead of detecting and counting the hit balls as disadvantageous balls for the player, the effective firing pressure (balls sent to the firing position or balls actually fired minus foul balls) may be counted. However, out balls may be detected and counted.

In this embodiment, the variable start of the variable display device 2 is made on the condition that the pachinko balls pass through the normal start passage port 3, but the variable display device 2 cannot be started until a predetermined number of pachinko balls pass through the normal start passage port 3. The display device 2 may be started variably. Further, the normal starting passage port is configured to have a plurality of exits, and the variable display device 2 is variably started only when one or a predetermined number of pachinko balls passes through a specific exit among the plurality of exits. Alternatively, the normal starting passage port 3 may be configured as a winning hole through which a hit ball wins and is led to the back side of the game board.

"Winning" in the present invention is a broad concept that includes "passing." Furthermore, as a condition for starting the variable display device 2,
For example, one or more pachinko balls may win a special eccentric prize ball device, or one or more pachinko balls may win a certain area (for example, specific winning area 52) within a special variable winning ball device. It is possible to do this. In addition, in this embodiment, when a pachinko ball enters the normal variable winning ball device 6, the special issue weirdo prize ball device 1 is driven and controlled to the first state, but instead of that, If a pachinko ball enters the ball device 6, the special issue eccentric prize ball device 1 is not driven and controlled to the first state, even if it simply pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15) of prize balls. good. Instead of the normal variable winning ball device 6 being controlled to open and close for a certain period of time to enter the first state, it may be controlled to open and close for a certain period of time to enter the first state.

Furthermore, when the display result of the variable display device 2 reaches a predetermined display result, the special issue weirdo award ball device 1 may be controlled to open and close a predetermined number of times (for example, once or twice). Alternatively, the distribution device 98 may be controlled to make it easier for the winning balls to enter the specific winning area 52.The normal variable winning ball device 6 may be configured to control the first winning ball depending on the display result of the variable display device 2, as described later. The time it takes to reach the state changes. For example, when the variable display device 2 displays a display result of "77", the normal variable winning ball device 6 is opened (opened and closed) as usual for a predetermined period of time (for example, 6 seconds),
If the display result of the variable display device 2 is, for example, “33J,” the normal variable winning ball device 6 is opened (opened/closed) for a predetermined period shorter than usual (for example, 3 seconds).In that case, the variable display device 2 is Once the displayed result is "77", the probability that the displayed result will be "33" will be improved,
The opening (opening and closing) of the normal variable winning ball device 6 may occur one after another intensively.

Or, "After reaching 77J, rl lj.

The number of combinations of display results that cause the normal variable winning ball device 16 to open may be increased, such as allowing r55J and r99J to open.

In addition, instead of keeping the variable winning ball device 6 in the first state for a certain period of time, it is possible to keep the variable winning ball device 6 in the first state until a certain number of balls are won, or until a certain period of time passes or a certain number of balls are won, whichever comes first. It is also possible to set the state to . In addition, when it takes, for example, 4 seconds for the special oddball prize ball device 1 to open and close twice due to a winning in the special starting winning prize lower, the opening/closing pattern of the normal variable winning ball device 6 is opened for 2 seconds.

It may be determined that the closing for 4 seconds is repeated three times so that the special issue eccentric prize ball device 11 can be opened and closed as many times as possible by winning balls to the normal variable winning ball device 6.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the pachinko gaming machine.

The microcomputer 6o has the function of controlling the operations of various devices as described below. For this reason, the microcomputer 6o is composed of, for example, several chips of LSI, and includes an MPU 61 that can execute control operations according to a predetermined procedure, a ROM 62 that stores operation program data of the MPU 61, and a ROM 62 that stores the operation program data of the MPU 61. It includes a RAM 63 in which data can be written and read.

Furthermore, the microcomputer 60 receives an input signal and provides input data to the MPU 61, and also receives output data from the MPU 61 and outputs it to the outside.
, a sound generator 69 that receives sound data from the MPU 61 , a power-on reset circuit 65 that gives a reset pulse to the MPU 61 when the power is turned on, a clock generation circuit 66 that gives a tarok signal to the MPU 61 , and a clock signal from the clock generation circuit 66 . Divide the frequency and send a reset pulse to the MPU61 periodically (for example, every 2m5ec)
a pulse frequency divider circuit (regular reset circuit) 67,
It includes an address decode circuit 68 that decodes address data from the MPU 61.

The address decode circuit 68 decodes address data from the MPU 61 and stores the ROM 62 . RAM63. Input/output circuit 64. A chip select signal is given to each sound generator 69.

In this embodiment, the ROM 62 is a programmable ROM so that its contents can be rewritten, that is, the program data for the MPU 61 stored therein can be changed if necessary. .

The MPU 61 provides control signals to various devices in accordance with the program data stored in the ROM 62 and in response to the output of each control signal described below.

The microcomputer 60 is given the following signals as input signals.

First, when an attendant at the game parlor inserts a key into the mode setting section 147 and performs a mode switching operation, a mode switching detection signal is sent from the mode detector 148 to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 151. When an attendant at the game parlor inserts a pin into the setting operation section 149 and performs a probability setting operation, a setting operation signal is sent from the setting operation detector 150 to the microcomputer 60 via the detector 151. If a pachinko ball is hit into the gaming area 223, it is detected by the hit ball detector 153, and its detection output is given to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 152. When supply balls are supplied to the prize ball tank (not shown) of the pachinko game machine, the supplied supply balls are detected by the supply ball detector 1.
54 and its detection signal is given to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 152.

Next, when a pachinko ball enters the normal variable winning ball device 6, its winning pressure is detected by the starting winning ball detector 9, and its detection signal is given to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 70. Pachinko balls are special starting winning Roa a,
If you win 7b, the winning pressure will start the winning ball detector 15a.
, 15b and the detection signal is sent to the detection circuit 70.
The signal is provided to the microcomputer 60 via the . When a pachinko ball passes through the normal starting passing port 3, the passing ball is detected by the starting passing ball detector 4, and the detection signal is given to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 71. When a pachinko ball enters the special variable winning ball device 1 and wins in the specific winning area 52, the winning pressure is detected by the specific winning ball detector 12, and the detection signal is sent to the microcomputer 60 via the detection circuit 72. given to. All the winning pachinko balls in the special variable winning ball device 1 are detected by the winning number detector 13, and the detection signal is sent to the detection circuit 7.
3 to the microcomputer 60.

Microcomputer 60 then provides control signals to the following circuits and devices.

First, a control signal for driving the special variable winning ball device is given to the opening/closing wing solenoid 11 via the solenoid drive circuit 74. A control signal for driving the normal variable winning ball device is given to the tulip solenoid 8 via the solenoid drive circuit 74.

Via the 7-segment LED drive circuit 75, the variable display 2a,
2b is given a variable display control signal. That is, as described above, a control signal for causing the variable display device to display a variable display is derived based on the detection output of the starting passing ball detector 4, and the variable display device is controlled to stop based on the establishment of a predetermined stop condition. Derive the control signal for. Furthermore, as described above, a control signal for driving the special variable winning ball device to the first state is derived based on the detection signals from the starting winning ball detectors 9, 15a, and 15b, and a control signal is derived to drive the special variable winning ball device to the first state, so that the predetermined regulation condition is met. Based on this, a control signal for controlling the special variable winning ball device to stop is derived. The 7-segment LED driving circuit 75 and the microcomputer 60 cause the variable display device to display a variable display based on the detection output of the starting winning ball detection means,
A variable display control means is configured to control the variable display device to stop based on establishment of a predetermined stop condition. On the other hand, as will be described later, the microcomputer 60 controls the display result of the variable display device 2 when the variable display device 2 is stopped to be predetermined identification information based on the timing of the passing of the pachinko balls through the normal starting passage port 3. If a stop control signal is derived based on which the variable display device is set to predetermined identification information, the microcomputer 60 controls the tulip solenoid 15 via the solenoid drive circuit 74 to A control signal for driving and controlling the variable winning ball device 6 to the first state is transmitted.

□ Pachinko balls start winning and start winning ball detector 9. 1
5a, 15b, a control signal for driving the special variable winning ball device 1 to the first state for a relatively short predetermined period is given to the opening/closing wing solenoid 11 from the microcomputer 60. The solenoid drive circuit 74 and the microcomputer 60 control the normal variable winning ball device until a predetermined regulation condition is met, when the display result when the variable display device is stopped or the predetermined specific identification information is reached. A special drive control means is configured to drive to the first state. Furthermore, as described above, the pachinko ball that entered the special issue eccentric prize ball device in the first state with the start of winning enters the specific winning area 52 and the detection signal is output from the specific winning ball detector 12. Once derived, the microcomputer 60 derives a control signal for the opening blade solenoid 11 to drive and control the special variable winning ball device to the first state again to bring it into the jackpot state. In addition, the pachinko balls that have entered the special issue eccentric prize ball device 1 that is in the first state due to the jackpot state are detected by the specific winning ball detector 1.
2, the special variable winning ball device is temporarily switched to the second
A control signal for returning to the first state is applied from the microcomputer 60 to the opening/closing blade solenoid 11 via the solenoid drive circuit 74. With this solenoid drive circuit 74 and microcomputer 60,
The special variable winning ball device is driven to the first state for a relatively short period of time based on the detection output of the starting winning ball detection means, and the special variable winning ball device is in the first state. Based on the fact that the entered ball enters the specific winning area and the detection output of the specific winning ball detection means is derived, the special variable winning ball device is operated for a relatively long period of time until a predetermined regulation condition is satisfied. A ball that enters the special eccentric prize ball device that is driven to the first state and is driven to the first state for a relatively long period enters the specific winning area and becomes the specific winning ball. Based on the derived detection output of the detection means, a drive control means is configured to repeatedly drive the special variable winning ball device once into the second state and then back into the first state. Further, this drive control means includes a drive control means corresponding to normal winnings that puts the special variable winning ball device in the first state for the relatively short period of time based on the detection output of the normal winning ball detection means.

The microcomputer 60 further provides a control signal for displaying the number of continuations to the continuation number display 10 via a 7-segment LED drive circuit 75, and also provides a control signal for displaying the number of winnings to the number of winnings display 14. The microcomputer 60 provides a memory display control signal to the start pass memory indicator 5 via the LED drive circuit 76 . Furthermore, the microcomputer 60 provides a lamp lighting control signal to the lamp 81 via the lamp drive circuit 77. Further, a sound generation control signal is provided to a speaker 79 via an amplifier 78. Note that a power supply circuit 80 is provided for the various devices and control circuits.
A predetermined direct current is supplied from.

3A to 3G are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the control circuit shown in FIG. 2.

Figure 3A shows the main routine, for example 2m5ec
Executed once every time. First, Step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S)1 determines whether or not there is a RAM error. If there is no RAM error, the process proceeds to S89, but if the program goes out of control or when the power is turned on, a YES determination is made. The process advances to S2, and after initial data is set, the process advances to 889. S8
At step 9, it is determined whether or not the mode is in the setting mode. If the mode setting section 147 is in the setting mode, the process advances to step S90, where a setting switch check process is performed, and the process advances to 89. Next, the process advances to 89 and 810, and the setting probability set by the setting operation section 149 is displayed on the normal variable display device 2.

If the mode setting section 147 is not in the setting mode, S
Proceed to step 3. A switch check process is performed in S3 and S4, the process proceeds to S5, and a sound/lamp φLED control process is performed, the process proceeds to S6, and an opening/closing blade solenoid control process is performed, the process proceeds to S7, and a tulip solenoid control process is performed, Proceed to S9 and design L
ED control processing is performed, the process proceeds to SIO, and the S
Processing for outputting the data set by the processing from S3 to S9 is performed. Next, the process proceeds to Sll, where a process of incrementing a hit/lose determination counter by "1" is performed. Every time this main routine is executed, for example, every 2m5ec, the Sll increments the hit-or-miss determination counter by "1".

The upper limit value of this counter for determining hit or miss is, for example, r
219”. Next, the process proceeds to 312, where it is determined whether or not the hit/miss determination counter has reached r220J. If it has not reached r220J, the process directly proceeds to S17; After clearing the counter and setting it to "0", the process advances to S17. In this way, the counter for determining the hit or miss is "0"
When the count is counted up and reaches 220, it is cleared and the count is counted up again from "0".

Next, the process advances to step 317, and a process of adding "3" to the first digit of the counter for determining a stopped symbol is performed. This stop symbol determining counter is for determining the identification information when the variable display device is stopped when it is determined that the win is a loss based on the count value of the hit or miss determination counter, and is for determining the identification information when the variable display device is stopped. The value corresponding to the type of symbol is counted, and the first digit is the symbol displayed by the variable display 2a for the left symbol (see FIG. 1). When the value of the stop symbol determining counter is "0" to "9", symbols "0" to "9" are displayed, respectively.

Next, the process advances to S18, where it is determined whether or not the first digit is equal to or greater than "10". If not, the process proceeds to S17 again, where "3" is added to the first digit of the stop symbol display counter. processing is performed. On the other hand, the first digit is “10” due to S18.
If it is determined that the value is greater than or equal to ``10'', the process proceeds to S19, where a process is performed to subtract ``10'' from the count value in the first digit, and a process in which ``1'' is added to the second digit of the stop symbol display counter. will be done. Next, the process advances to 5-20, where it is determined whether the second digit of the stop symbol display counter is "10" or not. If it is not rlOJ, the process returns to S17 again or "1
If the count value is 0, the process proceeds to 521, where a process of subtracting 10 from the second digit count value is performed. The processing in S17 to S521 is repeated during the reset waiting time remaining after the processing in S1 to S13, and the reset pulse from the pulse frequency divider circuit 67 (see FIG. 2) is output. At that stage, the process from 817 to S21 is completed and the process returns to Sl.

In the case of this embodiment, since a reset pulse is output every 2m5ec, the above-mentioned S1 to S1
S17 using the remaining time after subtracting the processing time up to 3.
The processing from S21 to S21 is repeated.

Figure 3B shows 53. of Figure 3A. 3 is a flowchart showing a subroutine program defined by S4.

First, in S24, the count switch (win number detector 1
3) is performed, the V switch (specific winning ball detector 12) is checked at 825, the starting winning switch A (starting winning ball detector 15a) is checked at 826, and 327 In step S28, the starting winning switch B (starting winning ball detector 15b) is checked, and in step S28, the starting winning switch C (starting winning ball detector 9) is checked.
The process proceeds to 29, where the starting passing switch (starting passing ball detector 4) is checked, and the process proceeds to 591, where the striking ball switch/
The supply ball switch check process is performed and the subroutine program ends. Note that a detailed explanation of the check processing in S24 to S27 will be omitted.

FIG. 3C is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the setting switch check process defined by S90 shown in the third ArEi.

First, in step S92, it is determined whether or not there has been a setting operation, and if there is no setting operation, the subroutine program is immediately terminated. The setting operation section 149 (first
If you insert the bottle once in (see figure) and perform the setting operation once, S9
Proceed to step 3, the setting counter will be incremented by "1",
The drive counter and replenishment counter are cleared. The setting counter is used to count how many times the probability change setting operation has been performed by the staff at the game parlor, and as explained in Figure 4 below, the probability is controlled according to the count value. Ru. The hitting counter counts the number of pachinko balls hit into the game area, and is incremented by "1" at step 5102, which will be described later. The replenishment counter is a counter that counts the number of replenishment balls when replenishing prize balls due to a shortage of prize balls in the prize ball tank of the pachinko game machine. It is incremented by "1".

In S94, it is determined whether or not the setting counter has reached "6", and if it has not reached "6" yet, the process proceeds to S9.
Proceed to step 6. On the other hand, as will be described later in FIG. 4, the probability setting of the normal variable display device can be set in six levels, and the value of the setting counter is also set in six types from 0 to 5. If it is determined that the setting counter has reached "6", the process advances to S95, where the setting counter is cleared and the count value becomes "0", and the count is counted up again from "0" in response to the setting operation. Become. Next, at 396, the winning determination range N is determined according to the value of the set counter.
1 and N2, set the probability improvement determination ball output rate M, and set the probability decrease determination ball output rate. These winning determination ranges Nl and N2 are values shown in FIG. 4, which will be described later.
In this case, the value of N1 is "8" and the value of N2 is "17". The values of Nl and N2 are 5112.5114, which will be described later.
Each of these is used for hit-or-miss decision control. In addition, the ball output rate M determined to improve the probability and the ball output rate determined to decrease the probability are the values shown in FIG. has a value of "70". These M and L are used by 5110 and 8111, which will be described later, respectively, for feedback control of the probability that the display result when the normal variable display device is stopped will be the predetermined identification information.

FIG. 3D is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for checking the striking ball switch and supply ball switch defined by 891 in FIG. 3B.

First, in S97, it is determined whether or not the ball hitting switch is turned on. When a pachinko ball is hit into the game area, the ball hitting switch is turned on and the process proceeds to 899. At step 899, it is determined whether the hit ball switch check counter is at its maximum value. This hitting ball switch check counter is set to 510 every time this hitting ball switch/supply ball switch check subroutine program is executed.
It is incremented by "1" in increments of 0, and its maximum value is, for example, r255J. If the maximum value has not yet been reached, the process advances to 5100, where the hit ball switch check counter is incremented by "1", and the process advances to 5101, where it is determined whether or not the hit ball switch check counter is equal to "2". Ru. If the number has not yet reached ``2'', the process advances to 5103, or if it has reached ``2'', the process advances to 5102, where the input counter is incremented by 1.

Next, the process advances to 8103, where it is determined whether the replenishment ball switch has been turned on. When the pachinko game machine is replenished with balls, the process advances to 5104, where it is determined whether the replenishment ball switch check counter is at its maximum. This replenishment ball switch check counter is
Each time the supply ball switch check subroutine program is executed, the value is incremented by "1" by 8106, and the maximum value thereof is, for example, "255". If the maximum has not yet been reached, proceed to 5106,
The supply ball switch check counter is incremented by "1", and the process proceeds to 5107, where it is determined whether or not the supply ball switch check counter is "2". If the number has not reached "2" yet, advance to 5109, "
2'', the process advances to 5108 and the replenishment counter is incremented by -15. Next, the process proceeds to 8109, where processing is performed to calculate the ball output rate X=supply counter value x 100/"the value of the input counter. In other words, in 5109, the current actual ball output rate X during the game is calculated. It is.

Next, if it is determined in S97 that the ball hitting switch is not turned on, the process proceeds to S98, where the ball hitting switch check counter is cleared, and the process proceeds to 8103. Furthermore, if it is determined in step 5103 that the replenishment ball switch is not turned on, the process advances to 5105, where the replenishment ball switch check counter is cleared, and the process advances to 5109. In the end, this hitting ball switch/supply ball switch check subroutine program is executed twice, and only when the hitting ball switch and supply ball switch are turned on both times, the processing from S99, 3104 onward is performed. It is,
Even if the ball striking switch or replenishment ball switch is turned on momentarily due to noise generated in the gaming hall, S9 will be turned on immediately.
The configuration is such that the processes after 9 and 5104 are not performed, and malfunctions due to noise can be prevented as much as possible.

FIG. 3E is a flowchart showing the start pass switch check subroutine program defined in S29 of FIG. 3B.

Steps 340 to S44 of this starting pass switch check subroutine program are S97 of the above-mentioned hitting ball switch/replenishment ball switch check subroutine program.
Since it is the same as 5101 to 5101, the explanation will be omitted here and will be explained starting from S45. In S45, it is determined whether or not the starting pass memory counter is "4".

Since the upper limit of the starting pass memory is "4", if the upper limit value of "4" has already been reached, the subroutine program will be terminated, but if it has not yet reached "4", the process will proceed to S46. Then, the starting passing memory counter is incremented by "1" in response to the occurrence of starting passing. Next, the process proceeds to 5llO, where it is determined whether or not X<M.

This X is the ball payout rate calculated using 5109 above, and M
is the probability improvement determined ball payout rate set in S96. This probability improvement determined ball output rate is a judgment as to whether or not to perform feedback control to improve the probability that the current actual ball output rate X is too low and will become the predetermined identification information of the variable display device. This is the value of the ball output rate that serves as the standard. If the current actual ball payout rate X is equal to or higher than this probability improvement determined ball payout rate M, the process proceeds to 5111, where it is determined whether or not X>L. This L is the ball output rate determined to lower the probability set in S96, and whether feedback control is performed to reduce the probability that the current actual ball output rate X is too high and becomes the predetermined identification information of the variable display device. This is the value of the ball output rate that is the criterion for determining whether or not the game is successful. If the current actual ball output rate X is less than this probability reduction determined ball output rate, proceed to 5112,
A determination is made as to whether or not the hit or miss determining counter≦N1. This N1 is a value indicating the range for determining the jackpot set in S96, and if the value of the setting counter (see 893 to S96) is, for example, "0", it will be the value of "8", and the value of the setting counter (see 893 to S96) will be "8". For example, "1"
In this case, the value is "12" (see FIG. 4).

Then, when the counter for determining the hit or miss is less than or equal to N1, that is, when the value of the counter for determining the hit or miss is in the range of 0 to N1, the process proceeds to 5113, and the jackpot data is stored in the data storage area corresponding to the value of the starting passage storage counter. is memorized. That is, the variable control of the variable display device based on the starting pass memory is controlled so that when the count value of the win/loss determination counter is 0-Nl, the combination of identification information (for example, 77) is a jackpot. As a result, the probability of hitting the jackpot is (N1+1)/220. Next, if the value of the count for determining a hit or loss is larger than N1, the process advances to 5114, and the counter for determining a hit or loss ≦N2
A judgment is made as to whether or not. This N2 is the above-mentioned S9
6 is a value that determines the range for determining the middle hit, and as shown in Figure 4, for example, when the setting counter is "0", it is set to "17", and when the setting counter is "1", it is set to "17". ”, then r251: is set, and if the value of the hit or miss determination counter at the time of passing the start is greater than N1 and less than N2, then 5l1
5, middle hit data is stored in the data storage area corresponding to the value of the starting pass counter. In other words, the variable display device is controlled to stop so that when the value of the win/loss determination counter is N1/1 to N2, the combination of identification information (for example, 33) is a medium hit. The probability of getting this hit is
(N2-Nl)/220. Next, if the value of the hit or miss determination counter is greater than or equal to N2, 8116
The process proceeds to Step 3, and the failure data is stored in the data storage area corresponding to the value of the starting pass storage counter. In other words, when the value of the win/loss determination counter is between N2+1 and 219, the variable display device is controlled to stop so as to display the winning combination of identification information.

On the other hand, if the current ball output rate 81 if the value is in the range 0-71
The process proceeds to step 13, where the variable display device is controlled to stop so as to display the winning combination of identification information. In addition, if the value of the hit or miss determination counter is greater than "71", 5l1
The process proceeds to step 8, where it is determined whether or not the hit or miss determination counter≦143. If the value of the hit or miss determination counter is in the range of 72 to 143, 5115
Then, the variable display device is controlled to stop so that the combination of identification information becomes a middle hit.

On the other hand, the value of the hit or miss determination counter is 144 to 219.
If it is within the range, the process proceeds to 8116, and the variable display device is controlled to stop so that it shows the wrong combination of identification information. In this way, if the current actual ball payout rate X is lower than the probability improvement determined ball payout rate M, feedback control is performed so that the probability of becoming a jackpot identification information and the probability of becoming a medium hit identification information are improved. be done.

On the other hand, if the current actual ball payout rate X is greater than the probability drop determined ball payout rate, the process advances to 8119, where it is determined whether or not the value of the win/loss determining counter is ≦4.

If the value of the win/loss determination counter is O~4, the process proceeds to 5113, where the variable display device is stopped and controlled to display jackpot identification information. In addition, if the value of the hit or miss determination counter is in the range of 5 to 9, 512
0, a YES determination is made and the process proceeds to 5115, where the variable display device is controlled to stop so that it becomes a combination of identification information that is a middle hit. Furthermore, if the value of the hit or miss determination counter is between 10 and 219, the process proceeds to 5116, and the variable display device is controlled to stop so as to display the winning combination of identification information. In this way, when the current actual a processing rate be done. In addition, in engines where the value of the driving counter is relatively small, the fluctuation in the ball output rate due to supply problems is large, so the determination of 5llO and 5ill is not performed until the value of the driving counter reaches a predetermined value. You can do it like this.

FIG. 3F is a flowchart showing a subroutine program for the tulip solenoid control process defined at 87 in FIG. 3A. First, in S51, it is determined whether or not the tulip solenoid timer has expired. If it has already finished, the process proceeds to S53, where the tulip solenoid is controlled to be OFF and the normal variable winning ball device is in the open state, that is, the second strategy. state and the subroutine program ends. On the other hand, since the jackpot data is stored by the above-mentioned 8113, the variable display device is controlled to stop depending on the jackpot identification information combination (for example, 77). Based on this, the tulip solenoid timer starts measuring time and times out after a relatively long predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) has elapsed. Then, during the relatively long predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) until the tulip solenoid timer times up, the determination of No continues in S51, and in S52, the normal variable winning ball device 6 (see FIG. 1) is controlled to open during that time. be done. On the other hand, if the middle hit data is stored by the above-mentioned 5115, the variable display device will be controlled to stop depending on the combination of identification information that results in a middle hit (for example, 33); The tulip solenoid timer starts counting based on the stop control, and the timer starts counting based on the relatively short predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds). S52 for a relatively short predetermined time until the tulip solenoid times up.
As a result, the tulip solenoid continues to be ON, and the normal variable winning ball device 6 (see FIG. 1) is controlled to open during this time.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing storage data for probability variable setting stored in the ROM of the microcomputer. 0 to 5 on the left side of the diagram indicate the values of the setting counter, N1 is a numerical value that determines the jackpot determination range, N2 is a numerical value that determines the medium hit determination range,
M is the probability-improving ball roll rate, and L is the probability-decreasing ball roll rate. The setting counter is, for example, 8 written in the line "0".
, 17°50.70 are N1. when the setting counter is 0. The values of N21M and L are shown.

Also, for example, the setting counter or the 1 indicated in the "1" line.
2.25.70.90 are the setting counters or “1” respectively.
”, lNl, N2. The values of M and L are shown.

In this embodiment, feedback control of the probability that the variable display device becomes predetermined identification information is performed based on the actual ball output rate X of the pinball game machine during the game, but instead of the ball output rate X, Feedback control may be performed based on a difference number, which is the difference between the number of balls hit and the number of balls supplied. In addition, in this embodiment, in performing feedback control,
Although we have shown the method that is performed based on the values of both the probability improvement determination ball output rate M and the probability decrease determination ball output rate, instead of that,
It is also possible to perform feedback control only when the ball output rate X falls below the probability improvement determined ball output rate M, or to perform feedback control only when it exceeds the probability decrease determination ball output rate M. good. Furthermore, Nl and N2 during the period in which no feedback control is performed may be made the same regardless of the set values. Furthermore, it may be possible to perform no feedback control at all. In addition, although the probability variable setting means was provided for each pinball game machine in the above embodiment, the function may be provided in a central management computer that manages a plurality of pinball game machines.

The present invention may be a pinball game machine that allows games to be played using a recording medium such as a card on which information that can identify a predetermined value is recorded. In this case, when performing feedback control, the scoring rate is used instead of the ball payout rate. This scoring rate is defined as the score awarded to the player x100/the value of the ball counter.

[Effects of the Invention] According to the present invention, the special starting winning area, which is the focus of attention for the player, changes between a first state that is advantageous to the player and a second state that is disadvantageous for the player, depending on the display result of the variable display device. Since the game includes a variable winning ball device, it has become possible to provide players with a variety of entertainment not previously available. Moreover, the probability that the display result of the variable display device for driving and controlling the normal variable winning ball device to the first state will be the predetermined identification information can be variably set and controlled on the gaming hall side. The probability is set high and the normal variable winning ball device is frequently driven and controlled to the first state to improve the service to the players, or the probability is adjusted to be low to improve the profit margin of the gaming hall. You can

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a game area of a pachinko game machine, which is an example of a pinball game machine according to the present invention, and various devices provided in the game area. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control circuit used in the pachinko gaming machine. 38 to 3F are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the control circuit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing storage data for probability variable setting stored in the ROM of the microcomputer. In the figure, 3 is a normal starting passageway which is an example of the normal starting winning area;
4 is a starting passing ball detector which is an example of a normal starting winning ball detection means, 2 is a variable display device, 6 is a normal variable winning ball device, 8 is a tulip solenoid, 11 is an attacker solenoid,
1 is a special variable winning ball device, 52 is a specific winning area, 12 is a specific winning ball detector, 13 is a winning number detector, 7.7a,
Reference numeral 7b denotes a special starting winning hole which is an example of a special starting winning area, 9° 15a and 15b a starting winning ball detector which is an example of special starting winning ball detecting means, and 60 a microcomputer.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] A special variable winning ball device that can change between a first state that is advantageous for the player and a second state that is disadvantageous for the player, and the special variable winning ball device that is able to change between a first state that is advantageous for the player and a second state that is disadvantageous for the player, and the special variable winning ball device that is based on the winning of a hit ball. a special start winning ball detection means for detecting a winning ball that has entered the special start winning ball; a special start winning ball detecting means that detects a winning ball that has entered the special start winning ball; a specific winning ball detecting means for detecting a specific winning ball that has entered a specific winning area formed at a predetermined location within the device; A hit ball that enters the special variable winning ball device that is driven to the first state for a short period and is in the first state enters the specific winning ball area and a detection output of the specific winning ball detection means. is derived, the special variable winning ball device is driven to the first state for a relatively long period of time until a predetermined regulation condition is satisfied, and is driven to the first state for the relatively long period of time. Based on the fact that the ball that entered the special variable winning ball device entered into the specific winning ball area and the detection output of the specific winning ball detection means was derived, the special variable winning ball device is temporarily activated. A pinball game machine comprising: drive control means for repeatedly driving the machine to the first state after being brought into the second state; a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information; a probability variable setting means that can variably set the probability that the display result at the time of stop becomes predetermined identification information; a normal start passing area that is determined to cause the variable display device to display a variable display depending on the winning of a hit ball; a normal start winning ball detecting means for detecting winning balls that have entered the starting winning area; and variably displaying the variable display device based on the detection output of the normal starting winning ball detecting means, and based on the establishment of a predetermined stop condition. It further includes variable display control means for stopping and controlling the variable display of the variable display device, and the special start winning area is changeable between a first state that is advantageous for the player and a second state that is disadvantageous for the player. The ordinary variable winning ball device includes a normal variable winning ball device, and the normal variable winning ball device is
At least, when the display result at the time of stop of the variable display device becomes the predetermined identification information, the drive is controlled to be in the first state until a predetermined regulation condition is satisfied, and the special start winning ball detection means: The normal variable winning ball device includes a normal winning ball detecting means for detecting a normal winning ball that has won a prize in the normal variable winning ball device, and the drive control means controls the special variable winning ball device based on the detection output of the normal winning ball detecting device. A pinball game machine characterized in that it includes a drive control means for normal winnings that keeps the target in the first state for a short period of time.