Game machine
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023124806
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-07-31
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-13
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-07-31
AI Technical Summary
【0011】 本発明の遊技機によれば、遊技の興趣を向上させることができる。
Smart Images

Figure 2025021085000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine. [Background technology]
[0002] As a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine is known that includes a gaming area in which a gaming ball (gaming medium) moves and a launching device that launches the gaming ball into the gaming area. The pachinko gaming machine includes a starting hole provided in the gaming area, and when the entry of a gaming ball into the starting hole is detected, a special symbol lottery is held. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the gaming state transitions to a special gaming state, and multiple special games are played in the special gaming state. In each special game, a big prize hole provided in the gaming area operates to an open state, and a gaming ball is paid out based on the entry of the gaming ball into the big prize hole, and various effects are performed (for example, see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-61649 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] However, in such gaming machines, there is a demand for improving the entertainment value of the game.
[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a gaming machine that can increase the enjoyment of gaming. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A gaming machine that launches a gaming medium into a gaming area (e.g., a gaming area 4) to play a game, An operation unit (e.g., a grip unit 20) operated by a player; A payout unit (e.g., a payout control means 270) that pays out game value to a player, The operation unit has a vibration unit (for example, a vibration device 213) that vibrates when a payout of gaming value exceeding a prescribed number is executed.
[0007] According to this configuration, the vibration of the vibration unit, which vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding the prescribed number is executed, is transmitted to the player through the operation unit, so that the player can feel a sense of elation that the game value he or she has acquired has exceeded the prescribed number by feeling the vibration. Therefore, the interest of the game can be improved.
[0008] In the above configuration, the gaming value paid out may be the gaming medium itself, such as a gaming ball, or may be electronic information, such as a numerical value.
[0009] In addition, in the above-mentioned configuration of the present invention, A prize hole (e.g., prize holes 46, 47, 49, 50) disposed within the game area; A counting unit (e.g., a frame control board 201) that reduces the number of game values owned by the player based on the release of the game medium and adds the number of game values paid out when the game medium enters the winning slot to the number of game values owned by the player; A detection unit (e.g., a foul ball detection sensor 214) that detects game media that are launched based on the player's operation and return without entering the game area, The counting unit adds the number of game media detected by the detection unit to the number of game values owned by the player, The vibration section may not vibrate when the game value number is added based on the detection of the game medium by the detection section.
[0010] With this configuration, the vibration unit vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding a specified number is executed based on the game medium entering the winning port, while the vibration unit is not vibrated when the fired game medium returns without entering the game area, thereby increasing the number of game values owned by the player, thereby more accurately improving the interest based on the generation of prize balls. Effect of the Invention
[0011] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to increase the interest in the game. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a state transition diagram of the game state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is in front of a gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "rear", "up and down" means that the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing with the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".
[0014] The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is different from conventional pachinko gaming machines in that the player can play the game without touching the gaming balls. The gaming machine 1 is an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of gaming balls (gaming media) circulate inside the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine in which a gaming value as electronic information is used, and the gaming value is consumed or paid out by playing. In the gaming machine 1, the payment of the gaming value means that the gaming value is paid out (granted) electronically. Note that the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1 and can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, that is, pachinko gaming machines in which the player can touch physical gaming balls and the gaming balls are paid out to a tray based on the entry of the gaming balls into a predetermined winning hole.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine according to this embodiment includes an outer frame 2 forming the outer surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 provided inside the gaming machine and forming a gaming area 4 in which a gaming ball moves, an inner frame 7 holding the gaming board 6, a glass unit 8 making the gaming board 6 visible but inaccessible to a player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 10 is attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that closes the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.
[0016] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a number of front frame lamps 12 that output light effects to enhance the game. In addition, speakers 14 that output sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.
[0017] A grip unit 20 (handle) serving as an operating section is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when a player operates to rotate the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launching device (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated to launch gaming balls into the gaming area 4. The launching device of this embodiment can launch 99 gaming balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).
[0018] A performance button 26 is provided on the front frame 10, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed by the gaming machine changes.
[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, a dedicated unit 400 as a device for lending game value is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 and is connected to the gaming machine 1. A bill insertion slot 406 into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion / ejection slot 402 into which a card (game value management medium) can be inserted / ejected, a lending button 403, a replay button 404, and a card return button 405 are provided on the front side of the dedicated unit 400. The card is used to manage the number of game values owned by the player. In other words, the number of game values owned by the player can be grasped by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. The number of game values may be managed by the card by storing the number of game values in the card itself, or by storing the number of game values in a predetermined management device or the like installed in an amusement facility or the like, and linking the number of game values stored in the management device or the like with identification information (such as the player's ID or an identification number unique to each card) stored in the card.
[0020] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the loan button 403 is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring the game value to the gaming machine 1. When the loan button 403 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game values are credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a bill inserted into a bill insertion slot 406 or a stored value stored as a prepaid balance on a card. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring the game value to the gaming machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game values are credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a game value owned by the player and managed by a card (game value linked to the card). In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or the replay button 404 is accepted as a loan operation (a game value transfer operation), and based on the loan operation, a predetermined amount of game value is transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1.
[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, a game value number display device (game ball number display device) 211 and a count button 212 are provided on the left side (dedicated unit 400 side) of the front frame 10 (see also FIG. 5). Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 400, in the gaming machine 1, a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values is stored in a game value number storage area of the frame control board 201 described later. Hereinafter, the value (stored value) indicated by the game value number storage area is referred to as the "held ball number" (held ball number). The held ball number can be said to be the number of game values available for play, and can also be said to be the number of game values owned by the player and managed by the gaming machine 1. The held ball number is displayed on the game value number display device 211. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the held ball number is displayed by the 7-segment display.
[0022] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see FIG. 5), which controls the value (number of balls held) stored in the game value number storage area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held based on the detection of the launch of a game ball. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the payout of prize balls. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the detection of a foul ball. Here, a foul ball refers to a game ball that is launched by the launch device by operating the grip unit 20 but is returned without entering the game area 4, and the returned game ball (foul ball) is detected by a foul ball detection sensor 214 (see FIG. 5) as a detection unit. When a game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held by the amount of the game value transferred. Furthermore, when game values are transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 reduces the number of held balls by the amount of game values to be transferred. Furthermore, the frame control board 201 controls the game value number display device 211 to display the number of held balls, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of held balls.
[0023] The counting button 212 is a button that is operated when transmitting (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (game value stored in the game value number storage area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 has a pressing portion (operation portion), which is formed so that it can be pressed. When the player ends a game, for example, the player operates (presses) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game value is transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when an operation (presses) is performed on the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400, a card that allows the number of game values owned by the player to be known is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / ejection port 402).
[0024] Fig. 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 3, a circular outer rail 28 is provided on the game board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 in which game balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 30 is provided on the left end of the game area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 guide game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) provided below the game board 6 to the game area 4.
[0025] At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a liquid crystal display 32 (effect display device) that displays effect images and the like to liven up the game, and an effect unit 36 that includes a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. And, at the center above the liquid crystal display 32, the display frame 34 is provided with a display frame lamp 38 that outputs effect light and the like to liven up the game.
[0026] In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball launched from the launching device falls in the game area 4a on the left side or the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, in the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed to the surface of the game board 6 so as to intersect with each other, and the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly.
[0027] An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass, and the game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 through which the game balls can fall downward from the stage 44, and the game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.
[0028] A first start port 46 is provided below the center of the stage 44, into which a game ball that has fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. A first start port switch 100 (see FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 46 is provided inside the first start port 46. When the first start port switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 also executes a first special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. The main control board 200 also executes the payout of prize balls (payout of game value to a player) by a payout control means 270 (described later) as a payout section based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. The game ball that has entered the first start port 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.
[0029] A plurality of (three) general winning holes 47 (upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, and lower left general winning hole 47c) are provided to the left of the first starting hole 46 in the game area 4. A general winning hole switch 101 (see FIG. 5) is also provided on the game board 6 to detect a game ball that has entered the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c. When the general winning hole switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 executes a prize ball payout operation by the payout control means 270 based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning hole switch 101. The general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or may be provided for multiple (e.g., three) general prize openings 47. In addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to the general prize openings 47 may be provided.
[0030] Further, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a passage gate 48 through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine is provided. Further, a gate switch 102 (see FIG. 5) that detects the passage of a game ball is disposed inside the passage gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (the game ball passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether or not a normal win has been won, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.
[0031] In addition, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 is provided below the passing gate 48. In addition, in the second start port 49, a second start port switch 103 (see FIG. 5) is arranged to detect a game ball that has entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the main control board 200 executes the payout of prize balls by the payout control means 270 based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.
[0032] The second starting hole 49 is provided with a normal role 54 (assistance means) that can be operated between a reduced state (a state in which entry is not assisted, a non-assistance state) in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 and an expanded state (a state in which entry is assisted, an assistance state) in which it is easy for the game ball to enter. The normal role 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal winning is won in the normal symbol lottery.
[0033] A large prize opening 50 is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see FIG. 5) is provided in the large prize opening 50 to detect a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the large prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 executes the payout operation of the prize balls by the payout control means 270. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.
[0034] The big prize opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 that can be operated between a closed state (second state, no entry state) in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 50 and an open state (first state, entry state) in which the game ball can enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a big jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery).
[0035] In addition, at the bottom of the game area 4, an outlet 62 is provided to collect game balls that have fallen through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 into the game machine. Here, inside the game machine, a discharge path (not shown) through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass is provided. In this game machine, all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the discharge path. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 4 enter any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 or pass through the outlet 62, and are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path. Specifically, the game balls that enter each of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 are detected by the switches 100, 101, 103, 104 arranged in the winning holes, and then guided to the discharge path. The game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to a discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a game ball from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.
[0036] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launching force of the game ball changes by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 shown in Fig. 1, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Note that when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is too small, the game ball does not enter the game area 4 and is returned as a foul ball and detected by the foul ball detection sensor 214.
[0037] Therefore, the player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 depending on the game situation, and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left-side game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42 and the stage 44 to enter the first starting hole 46 (left hit), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right-side game area 4b and passes through the passing gate 48 or enters the second starting hole 49 or enters the big winning hole 50 (right hit).
[0038] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the gaming ball falls in the left gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second start opening 49 and the large winning opening 50. In addition, when the gaming ball falls in the right gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not win the first start opening 46, the upper left general winning opening 47a, the middle left general winning opening 47b, and the lower left general winning opening 47c.
[0039] At the lower right of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, there is provided a status display section 70 that indicates various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.
[0040] 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. As shown in FIG. 4, the status display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal reserve display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special reserve display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 80, a second special reserve display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.
[0041] The normal pattern display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal pattern lottery is held, the two lamps are flashed to variably display the normal pattern, and the two lamps are turned on or off to statically display the normal pattern, thereby displaying the result of the normal pattern lottery.
[0042] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of the reserved random number values for the normal pattern lottery when the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is reserved because a normal pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already in a changing or stopped display when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining the two lamps by turning on, turning off, or flashing.
[0043] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a game ball entering the first starting hole 46, the 7-segment display is caused to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is caused to light up in one of a plurality of manners to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.
[0044] The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved first special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if a random number value for special pattern lottery (lottery information) is obtained, so the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the first special random number value.The first special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by combining the two lamps to turn on, turn off, or flash.
[0045] The second special pattern display unit 80 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 49, the second special pattern is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display, and the second special pattern is displayed in a static manner by lighting the 7-segment display in one of a plurality of different modes, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.
[0046] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved second special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or the second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and therefore a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for special pattern lottery is obtained, and the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the second special random number value.The second special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.
[0047] The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status currently set by a combination of turning on, off, or blinking the six lamps. In this embodiment, four types of game status can be set: a normal status (low probability status), a probability-change status (high probability status / special status) in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set higher than in the normal status, a special game status that starts when a jackpot is won in a special symbol lottery, and a time-saving status (special status) in which the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to change is shortened to frequently trigger the execution of the special symbol lottery. The six lamps are turned on, off, or blinked in a combination to display which game status is currently set.
[0048] 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means) and a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means). The functions of each board, such as the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or software consisting of a given program pre-stored in the ROM, etc.
[0049] The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game. The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the gate switch 102, the second start port switch 103, the count switch 104 or the out switch 106, the foul ball detection sensor 214, and the frame control board 201, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the status display unit 70, the normal role 54, or the special role 56 based on the calculation results.
[0050] The sub-control board 202 controls the execution of effects based on information transmitted from the main control board 200. The sub-control board 202 receives signals transmitted from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150 that detects the operation of the effect button 26, performs various calculations to execute effects according to the progress of the game, and controls the operation of the effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 32, the lighting device, the speaker 14, the vibration device 213 described later, and the effect drive device based on the calculation results.
[0051] The frame control board 201 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting button 212, controls the number of balls held (number of game balls), and controls the game value number display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200.
[0052] The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal pattern lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal gimmick control means 224, a special pattern lottery means 230, a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250, a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.
[0053] The random number generating means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). Note that in this embodiment, the "random number value" includes not only values that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values that may be generated regularly but may function substantially as random numbers because the timing of acquisition is irregular.
[0054] The normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, stores the normal symbol lottery random number value in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has occurred for the normal symbol lottery random number value value read from the normal random number storage means 2912. Specifically, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs a normal win determination process as the normal symbol lottery.
[0055] The normal winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not a normal winning has occurred. In the normal winning determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects which normal symbol lottery table to refer to among the multiple types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 and performs the random number determination process according to the game state. Here, in each normal symbol lottery table, a normal winning or a losing is associated with each of 100 normal symbol lottery random number values from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether or not one normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal winning, thereby determining whether or not a normal winning has occurred. When a normal win is won, the normal symbol selection means 220 sets a winning flag for the normal win to an ON state in the flag storage means 2916 of the main memory 290, and when a loss occurs, the normal symbol selection means 220 sets the winning flag for the normal win to an OFF state.
[0056] In addition, the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in the probability variable state or the time-saving state is set to have a higher probability of winning a normal win than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is neither the probability variable state nor the time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is in the probability variable state or the time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a normal win than the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is neither the probability variable state nor the time-saving state.
[0057] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.
[0058] In the normal pattern display control process, the normal display control means 222 causes the normal pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and depending on whether a normal win has been won in the normal win determination process, causes the normal pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72, thereby causing the normal pattern display unit 72 to display the result of the normal pattern lottery.
[0059] Specifically, in this embodiment, if the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is neither a special chance state nor a time-saving state, the normal pattern fluctuation time is set to 20 seconds, and if the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is either a special chance state or a time-saving state, the normal pattern fluctuation time is set to 1 second, so that the opportunity to perform the normal pattern lottery occurs more frequently when the game state is either a special chance state or a time-saving state.
[0060] In the normal hold display control processing, the normal display control means 222 displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74 according to the number of random number values for normal pattern lottery stored in the normal random number memory means 2912.
[0061] The normal role control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal role 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the game state is neither a probability variable state nor a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to a reduced state until 0.1 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win. Also, when the game state is a probability variable state or a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to a reduced state until 20 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win.
[0062] Therefore, when a normal win occurs in the normal symbol lottery, if the game state is neither a sure-win state nor a time-limited state, the normal device 54 operates so as to hardly increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting hole 49, but if the game state is a sure-win state or a time-limited state, the normal device 54 operates so as to increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting hole 49.
[0063] The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start hole switch 100 that detects each game ball entering the first start hole 46, and stores it as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start hole switch 103 that detects each game ball entering the second start hole 49, and stores it as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won, using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914. Specifically, the special symbol selection means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, and the like as a special symbol selection process.
[0064] The jackpot determination process is a process for determining whether or not a jackpot has been hit by reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.
[0065] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol selection means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot selection tables stored in the selection table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination process according to the game state. Here, in each jackpot selection table, 65536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65535 are associated with a jackpot or a miss. The special symbol selection means 230 then refers to the selected jackpot selection table and determines whether or not one of the jackpot determination random number values read out is associated with a jackpot, thereby determining whether or not a jackpot has been won. In addition, the special symbol selection means 230 sets the jackpot winning flag to ON in the flag storage means 2916 when a jackpot has been won, and sets the jackpot winning flag to OFF when a miss occurs.
[0066] In addition, the jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in the high probability state is set to have a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in the normal state or the time-saving state. In other words, the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in the high probability state has a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in the normal state or the time-saving state.
[0067] The symbol determination process is a process performed when a jackpot is won in the jackpot determination process, and is a process that reads out one symbol determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914, and determines whether the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) will be a 16-round probability variable symbol, a 4-round probability variable symbol, a 16-round normal symbol, or a 4-round normal symbol. Here, one symbol determination random number value is obtained from 100 symbol determination random numbers from 0 to 99 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start hole switch 100 or the second start hole switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.
[0068] In the symbol determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for the random number determination process, depending on whether the one symbol determination random number value read out is stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value. Here, in each symbol lottery table, one of the 16-round probability variable symbol, the 4-round probability variable symbol, the 16-round normal symbol, and the 4-round normal symbol is associated with each of the 100 symbol determination random number values from 0 to 99. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the selected symbol lottery table to determine which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the one symbol determination random number value read out is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning jackpot symbol to the ON state in the flag storage means 2916.
[0069] The special display control means 240 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the results of the special pattern lottery, and performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process.
[0070] The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read out from the special random number memory means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.
[0071] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined corresponding to each of the four types of jackpot patterns and misses, and the special display control means 240 stops and displays the first special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.
[0072] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read out from the special random number memory means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a predetermined manner.
[0073] The special display control means 240 then stops and displays the second special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 80 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.
[0074] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a first special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of the first special random number value stored in the special random number memory means 2914.
[0075] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a second special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82 depending on the number of second special random number values stored in the special random number memory means 2914.
[0076] As shown in Fig. 6, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between a normal state, a special game state, a probability variable state, and a time-saving state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition. The game state transition condition may be one condition or multiple conditions. When multiple conditions are set, the game state can be transitioned to another game state based on the establishment of one of the multiple predetermined conditions or the establishment of all of the multiple predetermined conditions.
[0077] The normal state is the initial state among the multiple game states, and it is possible to switch to the special game state from the normal state. In the normal state, the normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to the normal symbol lottery table, where the probability of winning a normal jackpot is set to about 1 / 20, and the special symbol lottery is performed by referring to the jackpot lottery table, where the probability of winning a jackpot is set to 1 / 319.
[0078] In addition, under normal conditions, the probability of winning a normal prize in the normal symbol lottery is low at about 1 / 20, and the normal symbol variation time is set long, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is short at 0.1 seconds, making it difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49.
[0079] The special game state is initiated based on a jackpot being won in a special symbol lottery during the normal state, the special symbol lottery state, or the time-saving state, and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games have been played according to the type of jackpot symbol.
[0080] Specifically, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 16-round probability variation pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been played.
[0081] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 4-round probability variation pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been executed.
[0082] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 16-round normal pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been executed.
[0083] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 4-round normal pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been executed.
[0084] The probability variable state is started when the special game state, which is started based on the winning flag of the 16-round probability variable pattern or the 4-round probability variable pattern (probability variable pattern) being set to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to transition from the probability variable state to the special game state or the normal state. In addition, in the probability variable state, the normal pattern is drawn by referring to the normal pattern drawing table, in which the winning probability of a normal win is set to about 19 / 20, and the special pattern is drawn by referring to the jackpot drawing table, in which the winning probability of a jackpot is set to 1 / 31, so that the probability variable state is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. The probability variable state ends when the number of times the special pattern has been drawn in the probability variable state reaches 9999, and the state transitions to the normal state.
[0085] Specifically, when the special game state ends, the game state transition control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 9999) corresponding to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 9999) into the probability change end judgment counter 2930 of the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update to subtract a value (e.g., 1) corresponding to one number of games from the stored value of the probability change end judgment counter 2930 every time a special symbol lottery is performed in the probability change state. Then, when the stored value of the probability change end judgment counter 2930 reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the probability change state ends and the normal state starts. However, since the probability of winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery is set to 1 / 31 in the probability change state, the special game state starts before the number of times the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability change state reaches 9999, and the probability change state rarely transitions to the normal state.
[0086] In addition, in the special state, the probability of winning a normal jackpot in the normal symbol lottery is high at about 19 / 20, the normal symbol variation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, so it is easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.
[0087] In addition, in the special probability state, the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter time regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so that the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.
[0088] The time-saving state is started when the special game state, which is started based on the setting of the winning flag of the 16-round normal pattern or the 4-round normal pattern to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to switch from the time-saving state to the special game state or the normal state. In the time-saving state, the normal pattern is selected by referring to the normal pattern selection table, which has a winning probability of about 19 / 20, just like in the probability-changing state, but the special pattern is selected by referring to the jackpot selection table, which has a winning probability of about 1 / 319, just like in the normal state, making it more disadvantageous to the player than the probability-changing state. The time-saving state ends when the number of times the special pattern has been selected in the time-saving state reaches 100, and the state is switched to the normal state.
[0089] Specifically, when the game state is shifted to the time-saving state, the game state shift control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 100) corresponding to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 100 times) to the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 in the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update by subtracting a value (e.g., 1) corresponding to one game number from the stored value of the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 every time a special symbol lottery is performed in the time-saving state. Then, when the stored value of the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the time-saving state is terminated.
[0090] In addition, in the time-saving state, just like in the special state, the probability of winning a normal jackpot in the normal symbol lottery is high at about 19 / 20, and the normal symbol fluctuation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, so it is easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.
[0091] Also, in the time-saving state, similar to the special bonus state, the time for the first or second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter period regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so that the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.
[0092] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and executes special game execution processes 1 to 4 and the like.
[0093] The special game execution process 1 is executed based on the fact that the 16-round probability variable symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round probability variable symbol, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.
[0094] Specifically, in the special game execution process 1, in the special game of each of the 1st to 16th rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball and the value of the big winning number counter 2936, which is incremented by a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one game ball, reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is driven and controlled so that the special feature 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is incremented to the value of the round counter 2933.
[0095] The special game execution process 2 is executed based on the fact that a 4-round probability variable symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to the number of rounds, which is a predetermined number of times, for the 4-round probability variable symbol as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to the number of rounds for one time to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.
[0096] Specifically, in the special game execution process 2, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.
[0097] The special game execution process 3 is executed based on the fact that the 16-round normal symbol is selected in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round probability variable symbol, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.
[0098] Specifically, in the special game execution process 3, in the special game of each of the 1st to 16th rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.
[0099] The special game execution process 4 is executed based on the fact that the 4-round normal symbol is selected in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to the number of rounds, which is a predetermined number of times, for the 4-round normal symbol as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to the number of rounds for one time to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.
[0100] Specifically, in the special game execution process 4, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.
[0101] The payout control means 270 as a payout section performs control to pay out a number of game values corresponding to a number of prize balls that is predetermined for each detection signal based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100, a detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, or a detection signal from the count switch 104. Specifically, a payout signal representing the number of game values corresponding to the number of prize balls is input to the frame control board 201, and the frame control board 201 increases the number of balls held by the number corresponding to the payout number. The number of prize balls may be any number greater than or equal to one, and the number of prize balls paid out by each of the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the second start port switch 103, or the count switch 104 may be different or may be set to the same number of prize balls.
[0102] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 202 to the main control board 200.
[0103] Next, a description will be given of the sub-control board 202. The sub-control board 202 is configured to include a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 310.
[0104] Based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 3110 of the sub-memory 310, the performance control means 300 controls the performance devices to perform effects to liven up or assist the game, such as displaying performance images on the LCD display 32, turning on or blinking lighting devices such as the front frame lamp 12 and the display frame lamp 38, outputting performance sounds from the speaker 14, driving the vibration device 213, and driving the performance object driving device to operate the performance objects.
[0105] The vibration device 213 is a vibrator that vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number is executed. In this embodiment, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 when the number of game values owned by the player (the value (the number of balls held) stored in the game value number storage area) is a prescribed number (e.g., "200") or more and the number of game values owned by the player increases. In other words, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 when a payout is executed after a payout of a prescribed number or more.
[0106] In this embodiment, the vibration device 213 is built into the grip unit 20. The vibration of the vibration device 213 causes the grip unit 20 to vibrate. In other words, in this embodiment, a predetermined portion of the grip unit 20 actively vibrates.
[0107] The vibration device 213 may not be built into the grip unit 20. For example, the vibration device 213 may be provided near the grip unit 20. The vibration of the vibration device 213 may be transmitted to the grip unit 20, and the grip unit 20 (a predetermined part of the grip unit 20) may be vibrated. In other words, a predetermined part of the grip unit 20 may passively vibrate. For example, the vibration device 213 may be provided on a base on which a hand gripping the grip unit 20 can be placed (on which the user's burden can be reduced by placing the hand). The vibration device 213 may also be built into the performance button 26. In other words, the gaming machine may have a vibration transmission unit that transmits vibrations generated in a part other than the grip unit 20 to the grip unit 20.
[0108] That is, the vibration device 213 vibrates a predetermined operation part (handle, button, etc.) operated by a player, such as the grip unit 20 for launching game media into the game area. The vibration device 213 can also be said to be a device capable of transmitting vibration to the hand of a player holding the grip unit 20.
[0109] As described above, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 when the number of held balls (value stored in the game value number storage area) is "200" or more and the number of held balls increases. Specifically, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 when the payout control means 270 pays out game value by game balls entering the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 (detected by the first start hole switch 100, the general winning hole switch 101, the second start hole switch 103, and the count switch 104) and the number of held balls exceeds "200". For example, suppose that 15 prize balls are generated by the detection of game balls by the count switch 104. Then, when the game balls are detected by the count switch 104 when the number of held balls is "190", the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 based on the fact that the number of held balls exceeds "200" due to the prize balls. In addition, when the prize balls have been paid out and the number of balls held is "205", if the count switch 104 detects a game ball, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 again. That is, in this embodiment, the vibration device 213 vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding a specified number is executed, but "payout of game value exceeding a specified number" may include not only the payout of game value at the moment when a certain number is exceeded, but also the payout of game value in a state where a certain number is exceeded. In other words, the vibration device 213 may vibrate when the specified number is exceeded, or may vibrate when game value is paid out in a state where the specified number is exceeded.
[0110] In this embodiment, the vibration device 213 vibrates according to the number of game values paid out in excess of the prescribed number when a payout of game values exceeding the prescribed number is executed. Specifically, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 a number of times according to the number of game values paid out in excess of the prescribed number when a payout of game values exceeding the prescribed number is executed. More specifically, the performance control means 300 vibrates the vibration device 213 once each time a predetermined number (e.g., "1") of game values is paid out in excess of the prescribed number (each time the display of the game value number display device 211 increases by "1"). For example, when the number of balls held changes from "190" to "205" due to 15 winning balls, the vibration device 213 may generate five vibrations based on the fact that "5" game values, which exceed the prescribed number "200", have been paid out. Also, for example, when the number of held balls becomes "220" from "205" by 15 winning balls, the vibration device 213 may generate vibration 15 times based on the fact that "15" game values will be paid out, which exceeds the specified number "200". Note that, when the number of held balls exceeds the specified number, the performance control means 300 may vibrate the vibration device 213 for a predetermined period of time each time a game ball enters the winning hole 46, 47, 49, 50. Note that, when the number of held balls exceeds the specified number, the performance control means 300 does not vibrate the vibration device 213 when paying out game values (in other words, adding to the value stored in the game value number storage area) when the number of held balls is below the specified number.
[0111] The vibration of the vibration device 213 may be performed after (for example, at the same time as) the display of the number of balls held on the game value number display device 211 exceeds a specified number (for example, "200"), or may be performed before the number of balls exceeds the specified number. For example, when the game balls are detected by the count switch 104 when the number of balls held is "190", it is determined that the number of balls held exceeds the specified number "200" at the timing of the detection. At this time, in the process in which the display of the game value number display device 211 is updated from "190" to "205", the vibration of the vibration device 213 may not be performed between "190" and "200", but may be performed between "201" and "205". However, the vibration of the vibration device 213 may be performed between "190" and "200" (for example, the timing when the display update based on the detection of the game balls by the count switch 104 is started, etc.).
[0112] Also, the vibration device 213 does not vibrate when the number of game values is added based on the detection of game media by the foul ball detection sensor 214. That is, in this embodiment, the frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held based on the shooting of game balls and increases the number of balls held based on the detection of a foul ball, so that the occurrence of a foul ball may cause an increase in game values beyond a specified number. For this reason, for example, if the vibration device 213 were simply vibrated every time the value stored in the game value number storage area increases beyond "200", vibration would occur even though the number of game values owned by the player has not actually increased. In contrast, according to the configuration of this embodiment, vibration can be generated by prize balls without generating vibrations due to foul balls, and the interest based on the generation of prize balls can be more accurately improved.
[0113] The vibration device 213 as in this embodiment is particularly useful in a gaming machine 1 in which the player plays the game without touching the gaming balls and the gaming value is used as electronic information. That is, in a pachinko gaming machine in which the gaming balls are paid out to a predetermined tray based on the entry of the gaming balls into a predetermined winning hole, when a large number of prize balls are generated due to an attacca win (balls entering the large winning hole 50) during a big role, the gaming balls stored in a predetermined tray (for example, the upper tray) overflow and are discharged from the predetermined tray (for example, discharged toward the lower tray), and at this time, continuous micro vibrations are generated due to the flow of the gaming balls. Such micro vibrations are comfortable vibrations that are transmitted to the entire tray unit and the handle (grip unit 20) side for launching the gaming balls, and the player's sense of elation reaches a climax by experiencing this. In contrast, in a gaming machine in which the gaming balls are not paid out to the tray, there is no tactile sensation due to such micro vibrations, which may reduce the interest. However, the gaming machine of this embodiment has a vibration unit that vibrates when a payout of gaming value exceeding a specified number is executed, so that when the specified number is exceeded, a vibration is transmitted to the player, giving the player a sense of elation.
[0114] In particular, from the viewpoint of simulating the phenomenon in a gaming machine in which gaming balls are stored in a tray, it is preferable that the vibration device 213 performs vibration according to the number of gaming values paid out in excess of the specified number when a payout of gaming values exceeding the specified number is executed. In addition, it is preferable that the specified number corresponds to the number of gaming balls (e.g., 200 balls) that fills a specified tray (e.g., the upper tray). This can create a realistic feeling of winning balls, further increasing the player's sense of elation.
[0115] In this embodiment, the performance control means 300 executes vibration of the vibration device 213 due to the payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number regardless of the game state, but the vibration may be controlled according to the game state. For example, when the game state is a special game state (or a time-saving state, etc.) as a prescribed game state, the performance control means 300 executes vibration of the vibration device 213 due to the payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number, while when the game state is a specific game state (for example, a normal state, etc.) other than the prescribed game state, the performance control means 300 may not vibrate the vibration device 213 even if the payout of game value exceeds a prescribed number.
[0116] In this embodiment, the vibration device 213 is vibrated by the payout of prize balls based on the entry of balls for all winning openings 46, 47, 49, 50, but the vibration device 213 may be vibrated only for the payout of prize balls based on the entry of balls into some of the winning openings. For example, the performance control means 300 may vibrate the vibration device 213 when the payout of game value exceeds a specified number based on the detection of a game ball by the count switch 104, but may not vibrate the vibration device 213 when the payout of game value exceeds a specified number based on the detection of a game ball by the first start opening switch 100, the general win opening switch 101, or the second start opening switch 103. In other words, the presentation control means 300 may vibrate the vibration device 213 when an attacca win (ball entering the large prize opening 50) during a big role (special game state) results in the payout of more than a specified number of game values, but may not vibrate the vibration device 213 when a game ball enters the start opening 46, 49 or the general prize opening 47 results in the payout of more than a specified number of game values.
[0117] In this embodiment, the payout of game value when the stored value in the game value number storage area exceeds "200" is regarded as the payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number, but for example, a counter that counts the game value (total number of game values) paid out by prize balls in a prescribed period may be provided in a prescribed storage unit such as the main memory 290, and "the payout of game value when the stored value of the counter exceeds a prescribed value" may be regarded as the payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number. In other words, for example, the performance control means 300 may vibrate the vibration device 213 when the total number of game values acquired by the player in a prescribed period exceeds a prescribed number.
[0118] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine that launches a gaming medium into a gaming area (e.g., a gaming area 4) to play a game, An operation unit (e.g., a grip unit 20) operated by a player; A payout unit (e.g., a payout control means 270) that pays out game value to a player, The operation unit has a vibration unit (for example, a vibration device 213) that vibrates when a payout of gaming value exceeding a prescribed number is executed.
[0119] In this embodiment, the vibration of the vibration unit, which vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding a prescribed number is executed, is transmitted to the player through the operation unit, so that the player can feel a sense of elation that the game value he or she has acquired has exceeded the prescribed number by feeling the vibration. Therefore, the interest of the game can be improved.
[0120] In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has A prize hole (e.g., prize holes 46, 47, 49, 50) disposed within the game area; A counting unit (e.g., a frame control board 201) that reduces the number of game values owned by the player based on the release of the game medium and adds the number of game values paid out when the game medium enters the winning slot to the number of game values owned by the player; A detection unit (e.g., a foul ball detection sensor 214) that detects game media that are launched based on the player's operation and return without entering the game area, The counting unit adds the number of game media detected by the detection unit to the number of game values owned by the player, The vibration section does not vibrate when the game value number is added based on the detection of the game medium by the detection section.
[0121] With this configuration, the vibration unit vibrates when a payout of game value exceeding a specified number is executed based on the game medium entering the winning port, while the vibration unit is not vibrated when the fired game medium returns without entering the game area, thereby increasing the number of game values owned by the player, thereby more accurately improving the interest based on the generation of prize balls.
[0122] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, the configuration of the pachinko game machine is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. For example, the above-mentioned configuration can be applied to a pachinko game machine in which the player can physically touch the game ball and the game ball is paid out to a tray based on the entry of the game ball into a predetermined winning hole.
[0123] It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, the components may be freely combined, or the components may be arbitrarily modified, or the components may be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]
[0124] 1. Gaming machines 4. Gaming area 20 Grip unit 46, 47, 49, 50 Winning Port 201 Frame control board 213 Vibration device 214 Foul ball detection sensor 270 Withdrawal control means
Claims
1. A gaming machine that launches a gaming medium into a gaming area to play a game, an operation unit operated by a player; a payout unit that pays out a gaming value to a player, The operation unit has a vibration unit that vibrates when a payout of gaming value exceeding a prescribed number is executed. Amusement machine.
2. A winning port disposed within the gaming area; a counting unit that reduces the number of game values owned by the player based on the release of the game medium and adds the number of game values paid out when the game medium enters the winning opening to the number of game values owned by the player; A detection unit that detects a game medium that is launched based on a player's operation and returns without entering the game area, The counting unit adds the number of game media detected by the detection unit to the number of game values owned by the player, The vibration unit does not vibrate when the game value number is added based on the detection of the game medium by the detection unit.
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1.
Citation Information
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