Game machine

Abstract

To improve convenience of a player.SOLUTION: In a Pachinko machine 1, an instruction (automatic ball lending command) regarding lending of game balls is outputted to a dedicated unit UN following detection of operation of a shooting handle if the number of possessed balls is 0 when an automatic ball lending function is valid. Accordingly, lending of game balls can be executed following continuation of shooting of game balls if the number of possessed balls becomes 0 by shooting of game balls when the automatic ball lending function is valid. Therefore, the need for depressing a lending button of the dedicated unit UN is eliminated when executing lending of game balls, thus increasing a player's convenience.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine equipped with a management means for managing the number of balls held. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a gaming machine equipped with a management means for managing the number of balls held is known (see Patent Document 1). This gaming machine is equipped with a frame control board (management means) for managing the number of balls held as numerical data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-108920 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional gaming machines, when lending out gaming balls, it is necessary to press a lending button on a dedicated unit, which may reduce convenience for the player. An object of the present invention is to improve convenience for players. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the gaming machine of the first invention is characterized in that it comprises a launch control means for launching gaming balls into a gaming area in response to operation of an operating means, a management means for managing the number of balls held, and, when a specified function is enabled, an output means for outputting a command regarding the lending of gaming balls to a dedicated unit in response to detection of operation of the operating means when the number of balls held is 0. In the gaming machine according to the first invention, when the predetermined function is enabled and the number of balls held is 0, a command to lend out game balls is output to the dedicated unit in response to detection of operation of the operating means. This makes it possible to lend out game balls by continuing to fire game balls when the number of balls held becomes 0 as a result of firing game balls in response to the predetermined function being enabled. Therefore, when lending out game balls, it is no longer necessary to press the lending button on the dedicated unit, which improves convenience for the player. Here, the operation means corresponds to the launch handle, which will be described later. The game area corresponds to the game area 30, which will be described later. The launch control means corresponds to the frame control board 400, which will be described later. The management means corresponds to the frame control board 400, which will be described later. The predetermined function corresponds to the automatic ball lending function, which will be described later. The command related to lending game balls corresponds to the automatic ball lending command, which will be described later. The dedicated unit corresponds to the dedicated unit UN, which will be described later. The output means corresponds to the main control board 200, which will be described later.

[0006] The gaming machine of the second invention is characterized in that, in the gaming machine of the first invention, when the number of balls held decreases to a predetermined number, a notification is issued regarding the automatic lending of gaming balls. In the gaming machine according to the second aspect of the present invention, a notification regarding the automatic lending of gaming balls is executed before the number of balls held by the player reaches 0. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which the automatic lending of gaming balls is executed unintentionally by the player, and makes it possible to further improve convenience for the player. Here, the predetermined number corresponds to a prescribed number, which will be described later. The notification regarding the automatic lending of game balls corresponds to a prior notice, which will be described later. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve convenience for players. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pachinko machine 1. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a pachinko machine 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the front of the game board, and diagrammatically illustrates parts particularly necessary for explanation. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front view of the circulation unit 500. [Figure 7] 7 is a diagram showing a state in which some parts are removed from the circulation unit 500 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of a pachinko machine. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart showing an automatic ball lending management process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing the automatic ball lending function management process. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing the automatic ball lending management process according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko machine 1 is used as a gaming machine according to the present invention. The pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine (a so-called "managed gaming machine") that can proceed with the game by using a predetermined number of gaming balls (45 [balls] in this embodiment) circulated within the gaming machine for play, without directly lending gaming balls or paying out prize balls to the player (i.e., without the player touching the gaming balls directly). In the pachinko machine 1, the number of gaming balls owned by the player (hereinafter referred to as "balls owned") is managed as numerical data.

[0010] (Special unit UN) A dedicated unit UN (see FIG. 8) is connected to the pachinko machine 1 as an external device. The dedicated unit UN includes a bill insertion slot, a card insertion slot, a display device, a loan button, and the like. The bill insertion slot allows bills to be inserted, while the card insertion slot allows a storage medium (card) that stores value information corresponding to the number of game balls to be inserted. The display device is capable of displaying the value information and the like stored in the inserted storage medium. The dedicated unit UN transmits a lending command to the pachinko machine 1 to designate lending of a predetermined number of game balls (125 [balls] in this embodiment) each time the lending button is pressed after a bill or a card is inserted. In addition, the dedicated unit UN transmits a lending command to the pachinko machine 1 to designate lending of a predetermined number of game balls (125 [balls] in this embodiment) each time the dedicated unit UN receives an automatic ball lending command from the pachinko machine 1, which will be described later. Then, the pachinko machine 1 adds the predetermined number of lent balls to the number of balls it has managed each time it receives a lending command from the dedicated unit UN. This allows the player to fire game balls in the pachinko machine 1 in the number of balls it has managed. In addition, when the pachinko machine 1 executes a counting operation described below when the number of balls managed by the pachinko machine 1 is 1 [ball] or more, the pachinko machine 1 transmits a counting command described below to the dedicated unit UN in order to convert the number of balls managed by the pachinko machine 1 into value information and store it in a storage medium.

[0011] (Overall configuration of pachinko machine 1) First, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a pachinko machine 1. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the pachinko machine 1. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a front door unit 4. Fig. 1 shows the front door unit 4 in an open state. Also, Figs. 1 to 4 omit the illustration of an upper decorative unit included in the front door unit 4. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pachinko machine 1 is composed of an outer frame unit 2, an inner frame unit 3, a front door unit 4, a game board unit 10 (see Figure 5), and a circulation unit 500 (see Figure 6).

[0012] (Outer frame unit 2) The outer frame unit 2, the inner frame unit 3, and the front door unit 4 are fixed to one another via a hinge mechanism. This allows the inner frame unit 3 to be opened and closed relative to the outer frame unit 2. The front door unit 4 can be opened and closed relative to both the inner frame unit 3 and the outer frame unit 2. The outer frame unit 2 is configured to include a rectangular frame body (outer frame). The outer frame of the outer frame unit 2 is fixed to an island facility of a game center.

[0013] (Inner frame unit 3) The inner frame unit 3 is configured to include a rectangular frame body (inner frame). The inner frame unit 3 is disposed inside the outer frame unit 2.

[0014] (Front door unit 4) The front door unit 4 is formed in a rectangular door shape. The front door unit 4 includes a rectangular frame body, a transparent plate 4a disposed in the approximate center of the frame body, an upper decorative unit (not shown) and a lower decorative unit 40 disposed so as to surround the transparent plate 4a, and a launch handle unit 6 disposed to the right of the lower decorative unit 40. The transparent plate 4a is formed in a flat plate shape from a transparent material such as resin or glass. The upper decorative unit is disposed above the transparent plate 4a. The upper decorative unit is a bulging portion having a shape that bulges out toward the front side. A sound generating device (speaker) 22 is disposed inside the upper decorative unit. In this embodiment, a first sound generating device 22 is disposed at the left corner of the upper decorative unit, and a second sound generating device 22 is disposed at the right corner of the upper decorative unit. A frame lamp 20 (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the upper decorative unit. The frame lamp 20 is configured to include a plurality of light-emitting elements (LEDs) driven by dynamic lighting control. The lower decorative unit 40 is disposed below the transparent plate 4a. The lower decorative unit 40 is a bulging portion having a shape that bulges out toward the front side. A sound generating device (speaker) 22 is disposed inside the lower decorative unit 40. In this embodiment, a third sound generating device 22 is disposed at the left end of the lower decorative unit 40, and a fourth sound generating device 22 is disposed at the right end of the lower decorative unit 40.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the lower decorative unit 40 is configured to include a counting operation unit 41, a setting button unit 42, and a performance button unit 43. The counting operation unit 41 includes a ball count display section 41a and a counting button 41b. Specifically, the counting operation unit 41 is formed in a box shape, and the ball count display section 41a and the counting button 41b are provided on the upper surface (hereinafter, the "display surface"). Ball count display section 41a is composed of a predetermined number (six in this embodiment) of seven-segment displays (light-emitting means) with decimal points arranged side by side, and is capable of displaying the number of balls managed by frame control board 400. Ball count display section 41a is configured on the display surface of counting operation unit 41. The display of ball count display section 41a is controlled by frame control board 400. The counting button 41b can be pressed by a player. A counting detection switch 23 (see FIG. 8) that detects the pressing of the counting button 41b is disposed inside the counting operation unit 41. The counting detection switch 23 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 (see FIG. 8) every time the counting button 41b is pressed. In this embodiment, the counting button 41b is formed in a cylindrical shape. The upper surface of the counting button 41b (hereinafter referred to as the "operation surface") is parallel to the display surface of the counting operation unit 41.

[0016] The display surface of the counting operation unit 41 is inclined toward the front side. That is, the display surface of the counting operation unit 41 is inclined so that the front side is lower and the rear side is higher. Accordingly, the operation surface of the counting button 41b is also inclined toward the front side. That is, the operation surface of the counting button 41b is also inclined so that the front side is lower and the rear side is higher. As a result, when pressing the counting button 41b, the direction in which the counting button 41b is pressed is not the vertical direction but a direction inclined toward the back side (a diagonal direction downward and toward the back side). This makes it easier to press the counting button 41b compared to when the display surface of the counting operation unit 41 (the operation surface of the counting button 41b) is positioned horizontally, thereby improving the operability of the counting button 41b. Furthermore, compared to when the display surface of the counting operation unit 41 (ball count display section 41a) is positioned horizontally, the light emitted from the frame lamp 20 and the panel lamp 21 described below is less likely to be reflected in the ball count display section 41a, making it possible to prevent a situation in which the visibility of the ball count displayed in the ball count display section 41a is reduced. Furthermore, compared to when the display surface of the counting operation unit 41 (ball count display section 41a) is positioned horizontally, the number of balls held (light emission) displayed on the ball count display section 41a is less likely to be reflected on the transparent plate 4a, and the light from the ball count display section 41a is reflected off the transparent plate 4a and can be seen, which makes it possible to prevent the visibility of the game balls flowing down the game area 30 of the game board 11 from the player's point of view from being obstructed, or the light emission effect by the board lamps 21 from being obstructed, thereby making it possible to prevent a decrease in the enjoyment of the game.

[0017] The counting operation unit 41 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower decorative unit 40. Here, in the pachinko machine 1, the launch handle unit 6 (launch handle) is disposed on the right side of the lower decorative unit 40 when viewed from the front side. Therefore, in this embodiment, the counting operation unit 41 is disposed to the left of the center in the left-right direction of the lower decorative unit 40 (i.e., the opposite side of the launch handle unit 6). This allows the player to operate the counting button 41b with the left hand while operating the launch handle unit 6 (launch handle) with the right hand, thereby improving operability when performing counting operations while playing the game. In particular, in this embodiment, when viewed from the front side, the dedicated unit UN is disposed on the left side of the pachinko machine 1. Therefore, by disposing the counting operation unit 41 to the left of the center in the left-right direction of the lower decorative unit 40 (i.e., on the dedicated unit UN side), it is possible to narrow the distance between the display device of the dedicated unit UN and the number of balls held display unit 41a, compared to when the counting operation unit 41 is disposed to the right of the center in the left-right direction of the lower decorative unit 40 (i.e., on the opposite side of the dedicated unit UN), and it is possible to shorten the distance of line-of-sight movement when performing counting operations and ball lending operations. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described later, a board lamp 21 consisting of a plurality of light-emitting elements is arranged on the game board 11 (play area 30). In this case, when the front of the game board 11 (play area 30) is divided into two parts, left and right, by a vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction when viewed from the front side, the number of light-emitting elements (light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21) arranged in the area to the left of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction is smaller than the number of light-emitting elements (light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21) arranged in the area to the right of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction. In particular, when the front of the game board 11 (game area 30) is divided into four parts, top, bottom, left and right, by a vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction and a horizontal line passing through the center in the up-down direction, the number of light-emitting elements (light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21) arranged in the area to the left of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction and below the horizontal line passing through the center in the up-down direction is less than the number of light-emitting elements (light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21) arranged in each of the other areas (the area to the left of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction and above the horizontal line passing through the center in the up-down direction, the area to the right of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction and below the horizontal line passing through the center in the up-down direction, and the area to the right of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction and above the horizontal line passing through the center in the up-down direction). In addition, the counting operation unit 41 is arranged to the left of the center in the left-right direction of the lower decorative unit 40 (i.e., the area side with fewer light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21). This prevents the light emitted by the panel lamp 21 from being reflected in the ball count display section 41a, thereby preventing a decrease in the visibility of the number of balls displayed in the ball count display section 41a.

[0018] A wall 44 is provided on the upper front side of the lower decorative unit 40. The wall 44 is formed so as to extend (rise up) from the upper front side of the lower decorative unit 40 toward the rear side at an incline. The wall 44 is provided so as to extend in the left-right direction at a position on the front side of the counting operation unit 41 and above the third sound generating device 22. In this case, the wall 44 is formed in a wall shape so as to face (block) the front side of the counting operation unit 41. The front surface of the wall portion 44 smoothly continues to the front surface of the lower decorative unit 40 (the front surface of the third sound-generating device 22). As shown in Fig. 2, the back surface of the wall portion 44 is configured to include an inclined surface 44a and a vertical surface (not shown). The inclined surface 44a is an inclined surface that extends from the top of the wall portion 44 toward the back side and downward. The vertical surface is a vertical surface that extends downward from the lower end of the inclined surface 44a. In particular, the counting operation unit 41 is arranged at a position where the player can press the counting button 41b while placing his / her hand on the wall 44 formed on the front side of the lower decoration unit 40 (with part of the palm in contact). Specifically, the player can hold a part of the lower decoration unit 40 by hanging each finger of the left hand on the inclined surface 44a or vertical surface of the wall 44, and can place the left hand firmly while resting the weight of the left hand on the lower decoration unit 40. The counting operation unit 41 is arranged at a position where the player can press the counting button 41b by simply moving the finger (particularly the index finger) while hanging each finger of the left hand on the wall 44. At this time, the inclined surface 44a allows the fingertip to be positioned so as to extend toward the counting button 41b, while the vertical surface increases the gripping force of the fingertip on the wall 44, making it possible to prevent shaking. As a result, it is possible to improve the operability of the counting button 41b. In this embodiment, the top of the wall 44 is disposed at a position higher than the top of the counting button 41b, which makes it easier to press the counting button 41b with a fingertip. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed from the front side, the top of the wall portion 44 is inclined so that the outer side in the left-right direction (the left side in this embodiment) is lower and the inner side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment) is higher. This makes it easier for the player to hook the fingers of his / her left hand on the wall portion 44.

[0019] Here, when the player places the fingers of his / her left hand on the wall portion 44, the palm of the left hand is placed in front of the third sound generating device 22 (so as to cover the third sound generating device 22). Therefore, a configuration may be adopted in which a deep bass sound (inaudible sound range) is output from the third sound generating device 22 as the counting operation is performed. This makes it possible to make the player feel a slight vibration in his / her left hand each time the counting operation is performed, thereby making it possible to notify the player that the counting operation has been performed. For example, in this embodiment, when the number of balls owned is equal to or greater than a first predetermined number (1 [ball] in this embodiment), each time the counting button 41b is pressed briefly (a counting operation in which the duration of the pressing operation of the counting button 41 is less than a reference time) a first predetermined number (1 [ball] in this embodiment) is subtracted from the number of balls owned, and a counting command specifying the first predetermined number is sent from the frame control board 400 to the dedicated unit UN. On the other hand, when the number of balls owned is equal to or greater than a second predetermined number (250 [balls] in this embodiment), each time the counting button 41b is pressed for a long time (a counting operation in which the duration of the pressing operation of the counting button 41 is equal to or greater than a reference time) a second predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls owned, and a counting command specifying the second predetermined number is sent from the frame control board 400 to the dedicated unit UN. Therefore, it may be configured such that every time the counting button 41b is pressed for a long time, the third sound generating device 22 outputs a deep bass sound (inaudible range), and every time the counting button 41b is pressed for a short time, the third sound generating device 22 does not output a deep bass sound (inaudible range). This makes it possible to make the player feel a slight vibration in his left hand every time the second predetermined number of balls are transmitted from the frame control board 400 to the dedicated unit UN, and to notify the player that the second predetermined number of balls have been transmitted. In addition, when the counting button 41b is operated continuously for 4 seconds or more, even if the player releases his finger from the counting button 41b, it is possible to configure the device to perform a "total count" process in which the counting button 41b is considered to have been pressed for a long time in the subsequent period, and all the balls are counted by the second predetermined number. It is preferable that the "full count" process be configured so that the player can cancel it by operating the count button 41b when there are balls remaining in his possession, thereby allowing the player to continue using some of his or her owned balls in the game.

[0020] The setting button unit 42 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower decorative unit 40. The setting button unit 42 includes a light amount adjustment button 42a, a volume adjustment button 42b, and a cross key button 42c. The light intensity adjustment button 42a is configured to include two operating parts (a first operating part and a second operating part) that can be pressed by the player. Inside the setting button unit 42, a light intensity adjustment switch 24 (see FIG. 8) is arranged which detects the pressing of each operating part. The light intensity adjustment switch 24 outputs a first detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the first operating part is pressed, and outputs a second detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the second operating part is pressed. The light intensity adjustment button 42a is used to adjust the light intensity of the frame lamp 20 and the board lamp 21. The volume adjustment button 42b is configured to include two operation parts (a third operation part and a fourth operation part) that can be pressed by the player. Inside the setting button unit 42, a volume adjustment switch 25 (see FIG. 8) that detects the pressing operation of each operation part is arranged. The volume adjustment switch 25 outputs a third detection signal to the performance control board 300 every time the third operation part is pressed, and outputs a fourth detection signal to the performance control board 300 every time the fourth operation part is pressed. The volume adjustment button 42b is used to adjust the volume output from the sound generation device 22. The cross key button 42c includes four operation parts (up button, down button, left button, and right button) that can be pressed by the player. Inside the setting button unit 42, a cross key switch 26 (see FIG. 8) is arranged to detect the pressing of each operation part. The cross key switch 26 outputs a fifth detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the up button is pressed, outputs a sixth detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the down button is pressed, outputs a seventh detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the left button is pressed, and outputs an eighth detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the right button is pressed. The cross key button 42c is used for setting various effects on the menu screen.

[0021] The effect button unit 43 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower decorative unit 40. The effect button unit 43 is configured to include the effect button 5b. The effect button 5b can be pressed by the player. Inside the effect button unit 43, an effect button switch 27 (see FIG. 8) that detects the pressing of the effect button 5b is disposed. The effect button switch 27 outputs a predetermined detection signal to the effect control board 300 (see FIG. 8) each time the effect button 5b is pressed. The effect button 5b is used in a button effect (an effect that suggests the result of a special symbol lottery, which will be described later) that is executed during the game.

[0022] As described above, the front door unit 4 can be opened and closed relative to each of the inner frame unit 3 and the outer frame unit 2. In this embodiment, a hinge mechanism is provided at the left end in the left-right direction for the outer frame unit 2, the inner frame unit 3, and the front door unit 4, and they are fixed to each other by the hinge mechanism. This makes it possible to open and close (open) the right side in the left-right direction (hereinafter also referred to as the "opening side") of the front door unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3 and the outer frame unit 2, as shown in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) and the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) are arranged on the open side in the left-right direction (right side in this embodiment) relative to the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). Also, the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) is arranged on the open side in the left-right direction (right side in this embodiment) relative to the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b). Here, when developing and shipping the pachinko machine 1, it is necessary to check the operation of the counting button 41b by pressing the counting button 41b with the front door unit 4 open. At this time, when the counting button 41b is viewed from the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment), if either the setting button unit 42 or the performance button unit 43 overlaps with the counting button 41b, it becomes difficult to operate the counting button 41b. In other words, when the counting button 41b is viewed from the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment), if the counting button 41b is hidden by either the setting button unit 42 or the performance button unit 43, it becomes difficult to operate the counting button 41b. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, when the counting button 41b is viewed from the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment), the setting button unit 42 and the effect button unit 43 are configured not to overlap the counting button 41b (at least a part of the counting button 41b). In other words, when the counting button 41b is viewed from the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment), the setting button unit 42 and the effect button unit 43 are configured not to conceal the counting button 41b (at least a part of the counting button 41b).

[0023] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, the height of the production button unit 43 (production button 5b) (the height of the top of the production button 5b) is higher than the height of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) (the height of the top of the counting button 41b). Therefore, the production button unit 43 (production button 5b) is arranged so that the position of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) is shifted toward the front side relative to the position of the operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) in the front-to-rear direction. In other words, the production button unit 43 (production button 5b) is arranged so that the rear end of the production button unit 43 is located closer to the front than the front end of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). In addition, the setting button unit 42 (light amount adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) is arranged so that the position of the setting button unit 42 (light amount adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) is shifted downward with respect to the position of the operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). In other words, the setting button unit 42 (light amount adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) is arranged so that the height (height of the top of the light amount adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c) is lower than the height of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b).

[0024] In particular, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, when the pachinko machine 1 is viewed from above, among the virtual lines extending in the left-right direction, a virtual line passing through the upper end (end on the rear side) of the operation surface of the counting button 41b is defined as a first virtual line L1, and a virtual line passing through the lower end (end on the front side) of the operation surface of the counting button 41b is defined as a second virtual line L2. In this way, it is possible to prevent the effect button unit 43 from overlapping with the counting button 41b (at least a part of the counting button 41b) when viewed from the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the first virtual line L1 and the second virtual line L2 are configured to overlap the setting button unit 42 (light amount adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) when the pachinko machine 1 is viewed from above. This makes it possible to press the counting button 41b, the light amount adjustment button 42a, the volume adjustment button 42b, and the cross key button 42c simply by moving the hand linearly in the left-right direction (the left-right direction shown in FIG. 2) during development and shipment of the pachinko machine 1, making it easy to check the operation of each button.

[0025] The firing handle unit 6 includes a firing handle (not shown), a touch sensor 411 (see FIG. 8), and a firing stop button (not shown). The launch handle can be rotated by the player. Inside the launch handle unit 6, a launch volume 410 (see FIG. 8) is arranged to detect the angle at which the launch handle is rotated. The launch volume 410 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected angle to the frame control board 400 (see FIG. 8). The touch sensor 411 detects the touch (grasping) of the launch handle by the player based on the change in capacitance. Then, when the touch sensor 411 detects the touch of the player to the launch handle, it outputs a touch signal to the frame control board 400 (touch signal is in the ON state). On the other hand, when the touch sensor 411 does not detect the touch of the player to the launch handle, it stops outputting the touch signal to the frame control board 400 (touch signal is in the OFF state). The launch stop button can be pressed by the player. A launch stop switch 412 (see FIG. 8) that detects the pressing of the launch stop button is disposed inside the launch handle unit 6. When the launch stop switch 412 does not detect the pressing of the launch stop button, it outputs a launch stop signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the launch stop signal to the ON state). On the other hand, when the launch stop switch 412 detects the pressing of the launch stop button, it stops outputting the launch stop signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the launch stop signal to the OFF state).

[0026] (Game board unit 10) Next, the configuration of the game board unit 10 will be described. FIG. 5 shows the front of the game board, and is a schematic diagram showing parts particularly necessary for explanation. The game board unit 10 is supported by the inner frame unit 3. Specifically, the game board unit 10 is attached to the inside of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. This allows the game board unit 10 to be disposed on the rear side of the front door unit 4. The player can then view the game board 11 (play area 30) described later through the transparent plate 4a. In this embodiment, the game area 30 described later is configured between the rear side of the transparent plate 4a and the front side of the game board 11. As shown in FIG. 5, the game board unit 10 includes a game board 11 and various presentation devices attached to the game board 11 (an image display device 31, a board lamp 21, etc.).

[0027] The game board 11 is made of resin and has a flat plate shape. A game area 30 is formed on the surface of the game board 11, into which game balls are shot out in response to the rotation of a launch handle and flow down. In this embodiment, on the front (board surface) of the game board 11, a left game area RL formed on the left side of the image display device 31 (display screen 31a) and a right game area RR formed on the right side of the image display device 31 are formed as game areas 30. The player can launch (make game balls flow into) the intended game areas RL and RR by adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle. Specifically, on the front side of the game board 11, there is formed a launch passage r1 through which the game ball shot out in response to the rotation operation of the launch handle passes, and a guide passage r2 that guides the shot game ball to the right-side game area RR. The game ball shot out in response to the rotation of the launch handle passes through the launch passage r1 and flows into the game area. If the momentum of the shot ball is weak, the game ball that passed through the launch passage r1 flows into the left game area RL. On the other hand, if the momentum of the shot ball is strong, the game ball that passed through the launch passage r1 passes through the guide passage r2 and flows into the right game area RR.

[0028] In the left game area RL, multiple paths are formed as paths (passages) through which game balls flow down. The player can launch (make the game ball flow) into the intended path by adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle. The left side game area RL is provided with a first start opening 51, an upper left other winning opening 55a, a center left other winning opening 55b, and a lower left other winning opening 55c. The first starting hole 51 is formed in a pocket shape. The first starting hole 51 opens upward and is always capable of receiving a game ball. The first starting hole 51 is capable of receiving a game ball flowing down the left game area RL. A special symbol 1 start port switch 101 (see FIG. 8) is disposed on the back side of the game board 11. The special symbol 1 start port switch 101 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball entering the first start port 51 (entry of a game ball into the first start port 51). The main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery in response to input of the detection signal from the special symbol 1 start port switch 101. Each of the other winning openings 55a to 55c is formed in a pocket shape. Each of the other winning openings 55a to 55c opens upward and can always receive game balls. Each of the other winning openings 55a to 55c can receive game balls that flow down the left game area RL. A left winning hole switch 106 (see FIG. 8) is disposed on the back side of the game board 11. The left winning hole switch 106 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball that has entered the upper left other winning hole 55a (entry of a game ball into the upper left other winning hole 55a), a game ball that has entered the center left other winning hole 55b (entry of a game ball into the center left other winning hole 55b), and a game ball that has entered the lower left other winning hole 55c (entry of a game ball into the lower left other winning hole 55c). In response to the input of the detection signal from the left winning hole switch 106, the main control board 200 transmits a prize ball designation command to the frame control device 400. In the left game area RL, a plurality of nails (not shown) are arranged so as to guide game balls to each of the winning holes 51, 55a to 55c.

[0029] The game board 11 is configured to include an upper attacker unit 70 and a lower attacker unit 80. The upper attacker unit 70 and the lower attacker unit 80 are separate units. The lower attacker unit 80 is disposed below (downstream side of) the upper attacker unit 70. In addition, on the game board 11, the upper attacker unit 70 and the lower attacker unit 80 form a right-side game area RR. In this case, the upper attacker unit 70 forms the upstream side of the right-side game area RR, and the lower attacker unit 80 forms the downstream side of the right-side game area RR. The upper attacker unit 70 includes the start gate 41 and the second large winning opening 54. The lower attacker unit 80 includes the first large winning opening 53, the second starting opening 52, and the operating opening 56.

[0030] At the most upstream of the right-side area RR, a start gate 41 is disposed. The start gate 41 is formed so that game balls can always pass through it. The start gate 41 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to pass through it. A first gate switch 104a (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the start gate 41. The first gate switch 104a outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a gaming ball passing through the start gate 41 (passage of the start gate 41 by a gaming ball). The main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery in response to input of the detection signal from the first gate switch 104a.

[0031] A second large prize opening 54 is disposed downstream of the start gate 41 in the right area RR. The second large prize opening 54 is capable of receiving a game ball flowing down the right game area RR. The second large prize opening 54 opens toward the front side. The second large prize opening 54 is provided with a second special electric device (special electric device) 54a that can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for a game ball to enter the second large prize opening 54 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for a game ball to enter the second large prize opening 54. The second special electric device 54a is opened and closed by a second large prize opening solenoid 66 (see FIG. 8). Normally, the second special electric device 54a is closed and the game ball cannot enter the second large prize opening 54, but when a big win game state occurs, the second special electric device 54a is opened and the game ball can enter. A second count switch 103b (see FIG. 8) is disposed within the second large prize opening 54. The second count switch 103b outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball entering the second large prize opening 54 (entry of a game ball into the second large prize opening 54). The main control board 200 transmits a prize ball designation command to the frame control device 400 in response to input of the detection signal from the second count switch 103b.

[0032] The first large prize opening 53 is disposed downstream of the second large prize opening 54 in the right-side area RR. The first large prize opening 53 is capable of receiving a game ball flowing down the right-side game area RR. The first large prize opening 53 opens upward. The first large prize opening 53 is provided with a first special electric device (special electric device) 53a that can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for a game ball to enter the first large prize opening 53 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for a game ball to enter the first large prize opening 53. The first special electric device 53a is opened and closed by a first large prize opening solenoid 65 (see FIG. 8). Normally, the first special electric device 53a is closed and the first large prize opening 53 is not capable of receiving game balls, but when a small win game state occurs, the first special electric device 53a is opened and the game balls can enter. A first count switch 103a (see FIG. 8) is disposed within the first large prize opening 53. The first count switch 103a outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball entering the first large prize opening 53 (entry of a game ball into the first large prize opening 53). The main control board 200 transmits a prize ball designation command to the frame control device 400 in response to input of the detection signal from the first count switch 103a. In addition, within the first large prize opening 53, there are provided a V area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means 53b that distributes a game ball that enters the first large prize opening 53 to one of the V area and the discharge area. A V-area switch 105a (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the V-area. The V-area switch 105a outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball passing through the V-area (passage of the V-area by a game ball). The main control board 200 generates a jackpot game state in response to the input of the detection signal from the V-area switch 105a. A discharge area switch 105b (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the discharge area. The discharge area switch 105b outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball passing through the discharge area (passage of the game ball through the discharge area). The main control board 200 executes a judgment of an illegal winning error based on the detection signal input from the first count switch 103a, the detection signal input from the V area switch 105a, and the detection signal input from the discharge area switch 105b. The distribution means 53b can be switched between a V-passing state in which the game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 can be distributed to the V area (first branch passage Ra described later) and a non-V-passing state in which the game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 can be distributed to the discharge area (second branch passage Rb described later). That is, when the distribution means 53b is switched to the V-passing state, all game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 are distributed to the V area (first branch passage Ra). On the other hand, when the distribution means 53b is switched to the non-V-passing state, all game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 are distributed to the discharge area (second branch passage Rb) (the game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 cannot pass through the V area). The distribution means 53b is displaced by a V-distribution solenoid 67 (see FIG. 8). A game ball that enters the first large prize opening 53 is first detected by the first count switch 103a, and then distributed by the distribution means 53b to one of the areas (passages) of the V area (first branch passage Ra) and the discharge area (second branch passage Rb), and after passing through that area (passage), it is discharged to the back side of the game board 11 (out passage).

[0033] A second start opening 52 is provided downstream of the first big prize opening 53 in the right area RR. The second start opening 52 allows game balls flowing down the right game area RR to enter. The second starting hole 52 opens toward the right. The second starting hole 52 is provided with a normal electric device (normal electric device) 52a (so-called "electric tulip") that can be displaced between a closed state that makes it difficult (impossible) for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 52 and an open state that makes it easy (possible) for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 52. The normal electric device 52a is opened and closed by a normal electric device solenoid 64 (see FIG. 8). Normally, the second starting hole 52 is closed and the game ball cannot enter the normal electric device 52a, but when the normal symbol lottery is won, the normal electric device 52a is opened and the game ball can enter the second starting hole 52. A special symbol 2 start port switch 102 (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the second start port 52. The special symbol 2 start port switch 102 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a game ball that has entered the second start port 52 (entry of a game ball into the second start port 52). The main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery in response to input of the detection signal from the special symbol 2 start port switch 102.

[0034] An actuation port 56 is provided downstream of the second start port 52 in the right area RR. The actuation port 56 allows a game ball flowing down the right game area RR to enter. The operating opening 56 is an entrance opening that opens upward and allows game balls to enter at any time. A second gate switch 104b (see FIG. 8) is disposed within the actuation port 56. The second gate switch 104b outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a gaming ball entering the actuation port 56 (entry of a gaming ball into the actuation port 56). The main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery in response to input of the detection signal from the second actuation port switch 104b.

[0035] An outlet 57 is provided to the right of the operating port 56 in the right-side area RR. The outlet 57 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to enter. The outlet 57 is open toward the right side, allowing game balls to enter at any time. At the most downstream position in the game area 30, an outlet 58 is provided for discharging game balls that do not enter (win) any of the winning holes 51 to 56. Here, the inner frame unit 3 includes an out passage (not shown) through which the game balls discharged from the game area 30 pass. Specifically, the out passage is attached to the back side of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. And, in the pachinko machine 1, all game balls shot into the game area 30 (all game balls discharged from the game area 30) are configured to pass through the out passage. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 30 are discharged from the game area 30 by entering any of the winning holes 51 to 56 or by passing through the out holes 57, 58, and flow into the out passage. Specifically, the game balls entering each winning hole 51-56 are detected by the switches 101, 102, 103a, 103b, 104b, 105a, 105b, and 106 disposed in the winning hole, and then guided to the out passage. Also, the game balls discharged from the out holes 57 and 58 are guided to the out passage. An out ball switch 571 (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the inner frame unit 3. The out ball switch 571 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a game ball passing through the out passage (a game ball discharged from the game area 30 (hereinafter referred to as an "out ball")). As a result, all game balls discharged from the game area 30 are detected by the out ball switch 571. Furthermore, in the game area 30, a plurality of nails (not shown) are arranged so as to guide game balls to each of the winning holes 51-56.

[0036] A board lamp 21 (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the play area 30 of the game board 11. The board lamp 21 includes a light-emitting element (LED) that is driven by dynamic lighting control. The image display device 31 is configured by a variable display device such as a liquid crystal display, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, etc. The image display device 31 has a display screen 31a capable of displaying a performance image. The display of the image display device 31 is controlled by a performance control board 300. The display screen 31a can be configured to have three first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3 (not shown) in which a first performance pattern z1 (not shown) is displayed, and one second performance pattern display area a4 (not shown) in which a second performance pattern z2 (not shown) is displayed. The first performance pattern z1 is composed of identification information (patterns) such as numbers, letters, symbols, characters, etc. In each of the first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3, it is possible to perform a variable display and a stationary display of the first performance pattern z1. The second performance pattern z2 is composed of color bars. In the second performance pattern display area a4, it is possible to perform a variable display and a stationary display of the second performance pattern z2. The changing display of the performance patterns z1 and z2 refers to a display in which the first performance pattern z1 is moved (scrolled) in each of the first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3, and the type of the second performance pattern z2 displayed in the second performance pattern display area a4 is changed (the color represented by the color bar is changed sequentially). The stopped display of the performance patterns z1 and z2 refers to a display in which one type of first performance pattern z1 is stopped at the lottery result display position of each of the first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3, and one type of second performance pattern z2 is displayed in the second performance pattern display area a4 (the color bar shows a specified color). Then, the result of the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery) is displayed based on the combination of the first performance pattern z1 stopped and displayed in the three first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3 and the second performance pattern z2 stopped and displayed in the second performance pattern display area a4. In addition, on the display screen 31a, it is possible to configure reserved symbol display areas b1, b2 (not shown) in which reserved symbols hz (not shown) are displayed. The reserved symbol display area b1 displays the reserved symbol hz corresponding to the start information during the notification display (variable display and stop display of special symbols). The reserved symbol display area b2 displays the reserved symbol hz corresponding to the start information for which the notification display is pending.

[0037] A main display 60 is disposed on the game board 11. The main display 60 is configured to include a plurality of lighting elements (segments). Each lighting element is configured with a light-emitting element (in this embodiment, an LED). The display of the main display 60 is controlled by a main control board 200. Information related to the game is displayed on the main display 60. That is, the main display 60 includes a special chart 1 display device, a special chart 2 display device, a general chart display device, and a status display device. Specifically, the main display 60 includes 32 lighting elements (LED1 to LED32). In the main display 60, LED1 to LED8 are special display devices, LED7 to LED16 are special display devices, LED17 to LED24 are normal display devices, and LED25 to LED32 are status display devices.

[0038] The special chart 1 display device is capable of displaying the variation and stopping of the first special pattern consisting of numbers, patterns, etc. The special chart 1 display device displays the result of the first special pattern lottery by the first special pattern that is stopped and displayed. The special symbol 2 display device is capable of displaying the variation and stopping of the second special symbol consisting of numbers, symbols, etc. The special symbol 2 display device displays the result of the second special symbol lottery by the stopped second special symbol. Here, the display of the special pattern (first special pattern or second special pattern) on the special pattern display device and the display of the performance patterns z1, z2 in the performance pattern display areas a1 to a4 correspond to the time when the varying display starts, the time when the stopped display starts, and the lottery result indicated by the stopped displayed pattern, respectively. Then, when the first special pattern (stopping pattern) displayed in a stopped state on the special chart 1 display device becomes a specific pattern (small win pattern), or when the second special pattern (stopping pattern) displayed in a stopped state on the special chart 2 display device becomes a specific pattern (small win pattern), a small win game state, which is a game state advantageous to the player, is created.

[0039] The normal symbol display device is capable of displaying the variation and stopping of normal symbols consisting of numbers, symbols, etc. The normal symbol lottery result is displayed on the normal symbol display device based on the normal symbol that is stopped. When the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device becomes a specific symbol (a normal symbol winning symbol), a normal symbol winning game state that is advantageous to the player is generated. The status display device displays the number of times the display of the lottery results of the first special pattern lottery is pending (number of reserved special patterns 1), the number of times the display of the lottery results of the second special pattern lottery is pending (number of reserved special patterns 2), the number of times the display of the lottery results of the regular pattern lottery is pending (number of reserved regular patterns), instructions for shooting the game ball into the right-side game area RR, etc.

[0040] Furthermore, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with detection sensors for detecting various abnormal conditions. In this embodiment, a glass frame opening sensor 107, an inner frame opening sensor 108, a vibration detection sensor 113, a radio wave detection sensor 114, a magnetic detection sensor 115, and the like are provided as detection sensors. The glass frame opening sensor 107 detects the opening of the front door unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3. Then, the glass frame opening sensor 107 transmits a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to the opening of the front door unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3. The inner frame opening sensor 108 detects the opening of the inner frame unit 3 relative to the outer frame unit 2. Then, the inner frame opening sensor 108 transmits a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to the opening of the inner frame unit 3 relative to the outer frame unit 2. The vibration detection sensor 113 detects vibration of the game board 11. In this embodiment, the vibration detection sensor 113 is disposed on the game board 11. Then, the vibration detection sensor 113 transmits a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of vibration of the game board 11.

[0041] The radio wave detection sensor 114 detects radio waves generated around the game board 11. In this embodiment, two radio wave detection sensors 114 are arranged on the game board 11. Each radio wave detection sensor 114 transmits a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a radio wave. The magnetic detection sensor 115 detects magnetism generated around the game board 11. In this embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 115 is disposed on the game board 11. Then, the magnetic detection sensor 115 transmits a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of magnetism.

[0042] (Circulation unit 500) Next, the configuration of the circulation unit 500 will be described. Fig. 6 is a front view of the circulation unit 500. Fig. 7 is a view showing a state in which some parts are removed from the circulation unit 500 shown in Fig. 6. The circulation unit 500 is supported by the inner frame unit 3. Specifically, the circulation unit 500 is attached to the inside of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. At this time, the circulation unit 500 is attached to the lower side of the game board unit 10. As a result, the circulation unit 500 is disposed on the rear side of the front door unit 4. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the circulation unit 500 includes a storage tank 510, a pumping unit 520, a cleaning unit 530, a ball passage 540, a flow straightener 550, and a launching device 560. As described above, all game balls shot into the game area 30 (all game balls discharged from the game area 30) flow into the out passage. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 30 are discharged from the game area 30 by entering any of the winning holes 51 to 56 or by passing through the out holes 57 and 58, and flow into the out passage. Then, the game balls that flow into the out passage are detected by the out ball switch 571, and then flow into the storage tank 510 via the discharge hole 501. Among the game balls launched by the launching device 560, those that do not reach the game area 30 (hereinafter referred to as "foul balls") flow into the foul passage 501. The circulation unit 500 is provided with a foul ball switch 572 (see FIG. 8). The foul ball switch 572 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a game ball passing through the foul passage 501. The game ball that has flowed into the foul passage 501 flows into the storage tank 510 after being detected by the foul ball switch 572.

[0043] The storage tank 510 is capable of storing a plurality of game balls. The game balls stored in the storage tank 510 are guided to a pumping unit 520 arranged downstream of the storage tank 510. The storage tank 510 is provided with an excess number of circulating balls sensor 573 and an insufficient number of circulating balls sensor 574. The excess number of circulating balls sensor 573 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a state in which the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 (i.e., game balls circulating in the pachinko machine 1) exceeds an upper limit number (e.g., 49 [balls]) (excessive number of circulating balls state). The insufficient number of circulating balls sensor 574 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a state in which the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 is less than a lower limit number (e.g., 43 [balls]) (insufficient number of circulating balls state). The storage tank 510 is provided with a ball removal lever 502. By operating the ball removal lever 502, it is possible to discharge the game balls stored in the storage tank 510 to the outside.

[0044] The lifting unit 520 lifts the game balls guided from the storage tank 510 to the ball passage 540. The lifting unit 520 is configured to include a screw conveyor 521 that lifts the game balls to the ball passage 540, and a lifting motor 522 that rotates the screw conveyor 521. When the lifting motor 522 is driven, the screw conveyor 521 rotates, and the game balls guided from the storage tank 510 are lifted upward by the screw conveyor 521 and reach the ball passage 540. The cleaning unit 530 is disposed on the side of the screw conveyor 521. The cleaning unit 530 includes a polishing roller 531 that polishes the game balls lifted by the screw conveyor 521. The ball passage 540 is an inclined passage so that the right side is lower. A flow straightener 550 is disposed downstream of the ball passage 540. A launch device 560 is disposed downstream of the flow straightener 550. The rectifier 550 includes a rectifier solenoid 551 that sends out game balls to the launch device 560. A rectifier inlet sensor 552 is disposed at the inlet of the rectifier 550. The rectifier inlet sensor 552 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a game ball located at the inlet of the rectifier 550. In addition, a rectifier outlet sensor 553 (see FIG. 8) is disposed at the outlet of the rectifier 550. The rectifier outlet sensor 553 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detection of a game ball located at the outlet of the rectifier 550. The launching device 560 includes a hammer (not shown) that launches the game ball sent out from the rectifier 550, and a launching motor 561 (see FIG. 8) that rotates the hammer. The game ball that has reached the ball passage 540 flows down the ball passage 540 and reaches the rectifier 550. Then, when the launch handle is rotated, the rectifier solenoid 551 is driven, and the game ball is sent to the launch device 560, and the launch motor 561 is driven, and the hammer rotates, thereby launching the game ball.

[0045] (Control system configuration) Next, the configuration of the control system in the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of a pachinko machine. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with various control boards. As shown in FIG. 8, the pachinko machine 1 is configured to include a main control board 200, a performance control board 300, a frame control board 400, and a power supply circuit 600 that supplies power (electricity) to each of the control boards 200, 300, 400, etc. Each control board 200, 300, 400 is a microcomputer equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs related to the progress of the game and data necessary for the progress of the game, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that serves as a temporary storage area used by the CPU to carry out processing based on the programs stored in the ROM.

[0046] (Main control board 200) The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game. The main control board 200 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, an output port, and the like. A detection signal from the vibration detection sensor 113, a detection signal from the radio wave detection sensor 114, and a detection signal from the magnetic detection sensor 115 are input to the input port of the main control board 200. Further, to the input port of the main control board 200, a RAM clear signal from the RAM clear switch, a detection signal from the key rotation detection switch 111, and a detection signal from the set value selection switch 112 are input. In addition, the input port of the main control board 200 receives a detection signal from the first count switch 103a, a detection signal from the second count switch 103b, a detection signal from the V area switch 105a, a detection signal from the discharge area switch 105b, a detection signal from the left winning port switch 106, a detection signal from the special chart 1 start port switch 101, a detection signal from the special chart 2 start port switch 102, and a detection signal from the gate switches 104a, 104b. Furthermore, a control command is input from the frame control board 400 to the input port of the main control board 200. The output port of the main control board 200 outputs a signal for controlling the display of the main display device 60, a signal for controlling the display of the performance display device 61, and a signal for controlling the display of the setting value display device 62. In addition, the output port of the main control board 200 outputs a control signal for controlling the drive of the normal electric role solenoid 64, a control signal for controlling the drive of the first large prize opening solenoid 65, a control signal for controlling the drive of the second large prize opening solenoid 66, and a control signal for controlling the drive of the V distribution solenoid 67. Furthermore, the output port of the main control board 200 transmits control commands to the performance control board 300 and also transmits control commands to the frame control board 400.

[0047] (Performance control board 300) The performance control board 300 controls the performance. Specifically, based on control commands received from the main control board 200, the performance control board 300 controls the display of performance images on the image display device 31, the lighting of the lamps 20 and 21, the output of sounds by the sound generating device 22, the driving of motors that drive various movable bodies (not shown), and the like. The performance control board 300 is configured to include a CPU, ROM, RAM, input ports, output ports, etc. The ROM of the performance control board 300 stores programs related to the progress of the performance, data necessary for the progress of the performance, etc. The RAM of the performance control board 300 temporarily stores control commands received from the main control board 200, data for performing arithmetic processing, etc. The CPU of the performance control board 300 determines the content of the performance to be executed based on the control command received from the main control board 200. Then, according to the performance program (performance control table) corresponding to the determined content of the performance, it generates display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, motor control data, etc. Then, it outputs control signals based on each generated control data to the image display device 31, sound generation device 22, each lamp 20, 21, each motor, etc. The input port of the performance control board 300 receives a detection signal from the light intensity adjustment switch 24, a detection signal from the volume adjustment switch 25, a detection signal from the cross key switch 26, and a detection signal from the performance button switch 27.

[0048] (Frame control board 400) The frame control board 400 controls the circulation and launch of game balls and manages the number of balls held. The frame control board 400 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input port, an output port, and the like. The input port of the frame control board 400 receives a detection signal from the glass frame opening sensor 107, a detection signal from the inner frame opening sensor 108, a detection signal from the firing volume 410, and a detection signal from the count detection switch 23. In addition, the input port of the frame control board 400 receives a detection signal from the out ball switch 571, a detection signal from the foul ball switch 572, a detection signal from the excess circulating ball number sensor 573, a detection signal from the insufficient circulating ball number sensor 574, a detection signal from the rectifier inlet sensor 552, and a detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 553. Furthermore, a control command from the main control board 200 is input to the input port of the frame control board 400. The output port of the frame control board 400 outputs a control signal for controlling the drive of the lifting motor 522, a control signal for controlling the drive of the rectifier solenoid 551, a control signal for controlling the drive of the launch motor 561, and a signal for controlling the display of the ball count display unit 41a. In addition, the output port of the frame control board 400 transmits control commands to the main control board 200 and also transmits control commands to the dedicated unit UN.

[0049] (About various lotteries) Next, various types of lotteries executed by the main control board 200 will be described. In the main control board 200, when the gaming ball passes through the start gate 41, a regular symbol lottery is executed. In this embodiment, the results of the normal symbol lottery are stipulated as "normal symbol win" and "loss". When the "normal symbol win" is won by the normal symbol lottery, a normal symbol win game state is generated. In the normal symbol win game state, the normal electric role 52a is displaced (opened) from a closed state to an open state, and the game ball can enter the second starting hole 52. In the pachinko machine 1, it is possible to execute time-saving control as an auxiliary control that is advantageous to the player. During execution of the time-saving control, the time for variable display of special symbols (hereinafter referred to as "variable time") is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. In this embodiment, during execution of the time-saving control, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is improved and the time for variable display of normal symbols is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. Also, during execution of the time-saving control, the number of times the normal electric device 52a is opened is increased and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a is extended in the normal winning game state compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. When the "normal winning" is won, the number of times the normal electric device 52a is opened is set to 1 [time] or 3 [times], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a in each time is set to 0.5 [s] or 2.0 [s]. At this time, while the time-saving control is being executed, the number of times the normal electric device 52a is opened is set to 3 [times], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a in each time is set to 2.0 [s]. On the other hand, while the time-saving control is stopped, the number of times the normal electric device 52a is opened is set to 1 [time], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a in each time is set to 0.5 [s].

[0050] In addition, in the main control board 200, a first special pattern lottery is executed in response to a game ball entering the first starting hole 51, and a second special pattern lottery is executed in response to a game ball entering the second starting hole 52. In this embodiment, the results of the first special symbol lottery are set to "small win" and "loss". Also, the results of the second special symbol lottery are set to "small win" and "loss". In particular, the winning probability of the second special symbol lottery (in this embodiment, the probability of winning the "small win") is higher than the winning probability of the first special symbol lottery. In addition, the winning probability of each special symbol lottery is set according to a set value. When the "small win" is won by the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, a small win game state is generated. In the small win game state, a small win game is executed in which the first special electric device 53a is shifted from a closed state to an open state, and a game ball can enter the first large winning hole 53. When the passage of the V-zone by the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 53 during the execution of the small win game is detected, the big win game state is generated in response to the end of the small win game state. On the other hand, when the passage of the V-zone by the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 53 during the execution of the small win game is not detected, the big win game state is not generated. In the big win game state, a round game is executed in which the second special electric device 54a is shifted from a closed state to an open state, and a game ball can enter the second big winning hole 54. Then, in response to the end of the big win game state, the time-saving control is started.

[0051] (Control state managed by main control board 200) Next, the control state (hereinafter referred to as the "game machine state") managed by the main control board 200 will be described. In the pachinko machine 1, the following gaming machine states are defined: a playable state, a setting change state, a setting confirmation state, a setting abnormal state, a RAM abnormal state, a backup abnormal state, and a complete function operating state. The RAM of the main control board 200 is provided with a gaming machine state flag area. In the gaming machine state flag area, a value corresponding to one of six gaming machine states (specifically, a playable state, a setting change state, a setting confirmation state, a setting abnormal state, a RAM abnormal state, and a backup abnormal state) is stored (set) as a gaming machine state flag. Then, in the pachinko machine 1, a gaming machine state corresponding to the value stored in the gaming machine state flag area is generated.

[0052] The "playable state" is a state of the gaming machine in which game progress is possible. During the occurrence of the playable state, execution of various processes (hereinafter referred to as "game progress processes") for progressing the game (special game and normal game) is permitted. This allows the game (normal game and special game) to progress. During the occurrence of a playable state, the base ratio is displayed on the performance display device 61. Furthermore, on the main display device 60, information related to the game is displayed.

[0053] The "setting change state" is a gaming machine state in which the setting values ​​stored in the setting value area of ​​the RAM of the main control board 200 can be changed. The setting change state occurs when the setting change condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the setting change condition is satisfied when a detection signal is input from the inner frame open sensor 108, a detection signal is input from the key rotation detection switch 111, and a detection signal is input from the RAM clear switch (not shown) when the power is turned on. In other words, when the inner frame unit 3 is open, the key rotation switch 111 is rotated to the ON state, and the RAM clear switch is pressed, the setting change state occurs when the power is turned on. During the setting change state, execution of the game progress process is prohibited, and the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped. Furthermore, during the setting change state, the setting value stored in the setting value area is displayed on the performance display device 61. Furthermore, all lighting elements constituting the main display device 60 are turned off. Furthermore, security information (external information) is output to an external device. Furthermore, while the setting change state is occurring, it is possible to change the setting value stored in the setting value area by pressing the setting value selection switch 112. Then, when the key rotation switch 111 is rotated to the OFF state while the setting change state is occurring, the setting change state is replaced by a playable state. This fixes the setting value stored in the setting value area.

[0054] The "setting confirmation state" is a gaming machine state in which the setting values ​​stored in the setting value area of ​​the RAM of the main control board 200 can be confirmed. The setting confirmation state occurs when the setting confirmation condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the setting confirmation condition is satisfied when a detection signal is input from the inner frame open sensor 108, a detection signal is input from the key rotation switch 111, and a detection signal is not input from the RAM clear switch when the power is turned on. In other words, when the inner frame unit 3 is open, the key rotation switch 111 is rotated to the ON state, and the RAM clear switch is not pressed when the power is turned on, the setting confirmation state occurs. During the setting confirmation state, execution of the game progress process is prohibited, and the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped. Furthermore, while the setting confirmation state is occurring, the setting values ​​stored in the setting value area are displayed on the performance display device 61. This makes it possible to confirm the setting values ​​stored in the setting value area. Furthermore, all lighting elements constituting the main display device 60 are turned off. Furthermore, security information (external information) is output to an external device. It should be noted that while the setting confirmation state is occurring, the setting values ​​stored in the setting value area cannot be changed. When the key rotation switch 111 is rotated to the OFF state while the setting confirmation state is occurring, the setting confirmation state is replaced with a playable state.

[0055] The "setting abnormality state" refers to the state of the gaming machine in which a setting abnormality has occurred. The setting abnormal state occurs when, during a playable state, it is determined that the setting value set in the setting value area is not within a specified range. During the occurrence of the setting abnormal state, the execution of the game progress process is prohibited, and the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped. Furthermore, during the occurrence of a setting abnormality, an error code designating the occurrence of a setting abnormality is displayed on the performance display device 61. Furthermore, all lighting elements constituting the main display device 60 are turned off. Furthermore, security information (external information) is output to an external device. To recover from the abnormal setting state, it is necessary to perform a power-off and power-on to cause a setting change state.

[0056] "RAM abnormality state" refers to the state of the gaming machine in which a RAM abnormality has occurred. The RAM abnormal state occurs when it is determined that a read / write abnormality has occurred in the RAM of the main control board 200 when the power is turned on. During the occurrence of the RAM abnormal state, the execution of the game progress process is prohibited. As a result, the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped. Furthermore, while a RAM abnormality occurs, an error code designating the occurrence of a RAM abnormality is displayed on the performance display device 61. Furthermore, all lighting elements constituting the main display device 60 are turned off. Furthermore, security information (external information) is output to an external device. To recover from a RAM abnormality, it is necessary to perform a power-off and power-on to cause a setting change state.

[0057] The "backup abnormality state" is a gaming machine state in which a backup abnormality has occurred. The backup abnormality state occurs when it is determined at power-on that a backup abnormality (specifically, an abnormality in the backup flag or an abnormality in the checksum) has occurred in the RAM of the main control board 200. During the occurrence of the backup abnormal state, the execution of the game progress process is prohibited, and the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped. Furthermore, when a backup abnormality occurs, an error code designating the occurrence of a backup abnormality is displayed on the performance display device 61. Furthermore, all lighting elements constituting the main display device 60 are turned off. Furthermore, security information (external information) is output to an external device. In order to recover from the backup abnormal state, it is necessary to perform a power off and power on to cause a setting change state.

[0058] The "complete function operating state" is a gaming machine state in which the complete function described below is operating. During the completion function operation state, the execution of the game progress process is prohibited, and the game (specifically, the normal game and the special game) is stopped.

[0059] (About the complete function) Next, the complete function installed in the pachinko machine 1 will be described. Pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a complete function. The "complete function" is a function that makes it impossible to continue playing the game (restricts the progress of the game) when the difference in the number of balls after the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1 reaches a specified number (95,000 [balls] in this embodiment). Specifically, the main control board 200 is configured with a difference ball counter that counts the number of difference balls. When the power supply is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, a predetermined initial value (100000 [balls] in this modified example) is set to the difference ball counter. During the period when the power supply is turned on to the pachinko machine 1, the difference ball counter counts the number of difference balls. That is, each time a detection signal is input from each of the switches 101, 102, 103a, 103b, and 106, the number of prize balls paid out in response to the entry of a game ball into the ball entry port corresponding to the switch is added to the value of the difference ball counter. Also, each time a detection signal is input from the out ball switch 571, "1" is subtracted from the value of the difference ball counter. When the value of the difference ball counter reaches a predetermined threshold value (195000 [balls] in this modified example), a game operation stop state is set. The "game operation stop state" is a state in which progress of the game by the pachinko machine 1 is impossible (a state in which progress of the game is restricted). In this embodiment, both the complete function operating state and the firing stopped state are set as the game operation stop state. Note that at least one of the complete function operating state and the firing stopped state may be set as the game operation stop state. The "launch stop state" is a state in which the launching operation of the launching device 560 is stopped (restricted) (impossible). In other words, while the launch stop state is set, even if a detection signal is input from the launch volume 410, the launching operation of the launching device 560 is not executed.

[0060] In this embodiment, when the value of the difference ball counter reaches a predetermined threshold while the special prize state (big prize game state / small prize game state) is not occurring (during the period when the special prize state is not occurring), the game operation stop state is immediately set. On the other hand, when the value of the difference ball counter reaches a predetermined threshold while the special prize state (big prize game state / small prize game state) is occurring (during the period when the special prize state is occurring), the game operation stop state is set after the special prize state (period when the special prize state is occurring) ends. In addition, in this embodiment, when a predetermined game operation stop state release condition is satisfied, the game operation stop state is released and the game can proceed. At this time, when at least one of the above-mentioned setting change condition (when RAM is cleared via the setting change state) and the normal RAM clear condition (when RAM is cleared without passing through the setting change state) is satisfied, the game operation stop state release condition is satisfied. As described above, the setting change condition is met when, at power-on, a detection signal is input from the inner frame open sensor 108, a detection signal is input from the key rotation switch 111, and a detection signal is input from the RAM clear switch. In addition, the normal RAM clear condition is met when, when the power is turned on, a detection signal is not input from the inner frame open sensor 108, a detection signal is not input from the key rotation switch 111, and a detection signal is input from the RAM clear switch.

[0061] In this embodiment, before the value of the ball difference counter reaches a predetermined threshold value (before the ball difference reaches a specified number (95000 [balls] in this modified example)), information suggesting (informing) that the ball difference is approaching the specified number is displayed on the display screen 31a. For example, when the ball difference counter value reaches 190000 [balls] (ball difference reaches 90000 [balls]), the text "5000 [balls] remaining until the complete function is activated!" is displayed. This notifies the remaining number of ball difference until the complete function is activated. In addition, in this embodiment, when the value of the difference ball counter reaches a predetermined threshold value (the difference ball count reaches a prescribed number (95,000 [balls] in this modified example)) during the occurrence of the special prize state (big prize game state / small prize game state), in response to this (during the occurrence of the special prize state), information suggesting (informing) that the complete function will be activated upon the end of the special prize state is displayed on the display screen 31a together with the performance display related to the big prize performance (small prize performance). For example, during the occurrence of the special prize state, the text "After the win ends, the complete function will be activated and the game will be stopped" is displayed superimposed on the performance display related to the big prize performance (small prize performance). This notifies the operation of the complete function after the end of the special prize state. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the complete function is activated (started), a notification image suggesting (notifying) that the complete function is activated is displayed on the display screen 31a.

[0062] (About steering wheel operation signals) Next, the handle operation signal output from the frame control board 400 to the main control board 200 will be described. The frame control board 400 is configured to include a handle operation signal output IC (not shown). As described above, when the rotation operation of the firing handle is detected, the firing volume 410 outputs a detection signal (hereinafter referred to as a "handle volume signal") corresponding to the detected angle of the firing handle to the frame control board 400. At this time, the handle volume signal is input to the handle operation signal output IC. Then, the handle operation signal output IC switches between outputting and not outputting the handle operation signal to the main control board 200 according to the input status of the handle volume signal. Specifically, the handle volume signal input to the handle operation signal output IC is in the ON state when the rotation operation of the firing handle is detected, and is in the OFF state when the rotation operation of the firing handle is not detected. Then, when the handle volume signal is in the ON state, the handle operation signal output IC outputs the handle operation signal to the main control board 200 (the handle operation signal output to the main control board 200 is in the ON state). On the other hand, when the handle volume signal is in the OFF state, the output of the handle operation signal to the main control board 200 is stopped (the handle operation signal output to the main control board 200 is in the OFF state). This enables the main control board 200 to check the input status of the handle volume operation signal (ie, whether or not the firing handle has been rotated) based on the input status of the handle operation signal.

[0063] (Control state managed by frame control board 400) Next, the control state managed by the frame control board 400 (hereinafter referred to as the "frame control state") will be described. In the pachinko machine 1, a normal state and a ball removal state are defined as the frame control states. In the normal state, communication with the main control board 200 and the dedicated unit UN is possible. In the pachinko machine 1, when the gaming machine state is a playable state and the frame control state is a normal state, the game can proceed. The ball removal state is a state in which removal of game balls contained within the pachinko machine 1 can be performed (a state in which removal of game balls is being performed). Here, a ball removal button (not shown) and a ball removal switch (not shown) are arranged on the frame control board 400. The ball removal switch outputs a predetermined detection signal to the frame control board 400 when the ball removal button is pressed. When the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1 with no detection signal being input from the ball removal switch, the normal state is set as the frame control state. On the other hand, when the number of balls held stored in the held ball number storage area (described later) is 0 [balls] and a detection signal is input from the ball removal switch, the pachinko machine 1 is powered on and the ball removal state is set as the frame control state. During the ball removal state, a ball removal state notification image is displayed on the display screen 31a to notify (suggest) that the ball removal state is in progress. In addition, if the power to the pachinko machine 1 is turned back on during the ball removal state with no detection signal being input from the ball removal switch, the frame control state is set to the normal state.

[0064] (Regarding the number of balls you have) Next, the management of the number of balls held performed by the frame control board 400 will be described. The number of balls held is stored as numerical data in a predetermined area (hereinafter, referred to as the "ball number storage area") of the RAM of the frame control board 400. The number of balls held stored in the ball number storage area is displayed on the ball number display unit 41a. In the pachinko machine 1, when a new game is started, the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area is usually 0 [balls]. In the dedicated unit UN, after a bill or card is inserted, each time the loan button is pressed (each time a ball loan operation is executed), a loan command is sent from the dedicated unit UN to the frame control board 400. In addition, in the dedicated unit UN, after a bill or card is inserted, each time an automatic ball loan command is received from the frame control board 400 (each time the automatic ball loan process (step S1-9) described later is executed), a loan command is sent from the dedicated unit UN to the frame control board 400. In the frame control board 400, each time a loan command is received, a predetermined number of balls to be lent (125 [balls] in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls held stored in the number of balls held storage area. In addition, in the frame control board 400, 1 [ball] is subtracted from the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area each time a game ball is shot. In this embodiment, each time the detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 553 switches from the on state to the off state, a game ball is assumed to have been shot, and 1 [ball] is subtracted from the number of balls held storage area. In addition, in the frame control board 400, 1 [ball] is added to the number of balls held stored in the number of balls held storage area each time a detection signal from the foul ball switch 572 is input (each time a foul ball is detected). In addition, when a game ball enters each winning port 51-55, the main control board 200 detects the ball entry by a corresponding switch, and transmits a prize ball designation command that designates the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning port into which the game ball entered, to the frame control board 400. Then, when the frame control board 400 receives the prize ball designation command, the number of prize balls designated by the prize ball designation command is added to the number of balls stored in the number of balls stored memory area. Furthermore, in the frame control board 400, when the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area is equal to or greater than a first predetermined number (1 [ball] in this embodiment), each time the counting button 41b is pressed briefly (a counting operation in which the duration of the pressing operation of the counting button 41 is less than a reference time), the first predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area, and a counting command specifying the first predetermined number is sent to the dedicated unit UN. On the other hand, when the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area is equal to or greater than a second predetermined number (250 [balls] in this embodiment), each time the counting button 41b is pressed long (a counting operation in which the duration of the pressing operation of the counting button 41 is equal to or greater than a reference time), the second predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area, and a counting command specifying the second predetermined number is sent to the dedicated unit UN. When the dedicated unit UN receives a counting command, the number of balls held specified by the counting command is added to the number of balls held stored on the card. Here, the frame control board 400 is provided with a ball count clear button (not shown) and a ball count clear switch (not shown). The ball count clear switch outputs a predetermined detection signal to the frame control board 400 when the ball count clear button is pressed. Then, when the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1 while the detection signal is being input from the ball count clear switch, the frame control board 400 clears the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area (sets the initial value = 0 [ball] as the number of balls). In the following description, the process of clearing the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area is referred to as a "ball count clear process". When the ball count clear process is executed, a ball count clear notification image that notifies (suggests) that the number of balls has been cleared is displayed on the display screen 31a.

[0065] (Frame control commands) Next, the frame control command transmitted from the frame control board 400 to the main control board 200 will be described. In this embodiment, a frame control command is provided as a control command transmitted from the frame control board 400 to the main control board 200. The frame control command is composed of information indicating the number of balls held stored in the ball number memory area (hereinafter referred to as "ball number information"), information indicating whether a ball lending operation has been performed (hereinafter referred to as "ball lending information"), information indicating whether a counting operation has been performed (hereinafter referred to as "counting information"), and information indicating the status of the frame control board 400 (hereinafter referred to as "status information"). As described above, the main control board 200 transmits startup information (chip ID, manufacturer code, etc.) to the frame control board 400 in response to power-on of the pachinko machine 1. Then, upon receiving the startup information, the frame control board 400 responds by sending a frame control command back to the main control board 200. For the frame control command sent when the power is turned on, the ball count information included in the frame control command is set to information indicating the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area at the time of power-on. Furthermore, if the frame control state at the time of power-on is a normal state, information designating the normal state is set as the status information included in the frame control command. On the other hand, if the frame control state at the time of power-on is a ball-removed state, information designating the ball-removed state is set as the status information included in the frame control command. Furthermore, if a ball count clear process is executed at power-on, information designating the occurrence of a ball count clear is set as the status information included in the frame control command.

[0066] In addition, the frame control board 400 transmits a frame control command to the main control board 200 each time the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area is changed (updated). Here, the timing at which the number of balls held stored in the number of balls held memory area is changed (updated) includes when a ball lending operation is executed (when a lending command is received), when a game ball is released (when the detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 553 switches from an on state to an off state), when a foul ball is detected (when a detection signal is input from the foul ball switch 572), when a prize ball is generated (when a prize ball designation command is received), and when a counting operation is executed (when the counting button 41 is detected as being pressed). For a frame control command sent when updating the number of balls held, the number of balls held information included in the frame control command is set to information indicating the number of balls held stored in the updated number of balls held memory area. Also, for a frame control command sent when a ball lending operation is performed (when a lending command is received), the ball lending information included in the frame control command is set to information specifying the execution of a ball lending operation. Also, for a frame control command sent when a counting operation is performed (when a press of the counting button 41 is detected), the counting information included in the frame control command is set to information specifying the execution of a counting operation.

[0067] (Automatic ball lending function) Next, the automatic ball lending function installed in the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The automatic ball lending function is a function that automatically lends out game balls when the number of balls owned reaches 0 [balls], without the need to press the lending button on the dedicated unit UN. In recent years, players of pachinko machines 1 often play while looking at the screen of their own mobile communication terminals, and a configuration that allows the game to proceed smoothly without unnecessary operations is required. Therefore, by providing an automatic ball lending function, when the number of balls in possession becomes 0 [balls], it becomes possible to receive a loan of game balls without having to press the loan button, and the game can proceed smoothly.

[0068] Here, in the pachinko machine 1, a menu button (not shown) is provided in the lower decorative unit 40. Then, when a pressing operation of the menu button is detected during a customer waiting state or during a game, a menu screen (not shown) is displayed on the display screen 31a accordingly. Also, the player can set various functions to be enabled (ON state) or disabled (OFF state) on the menu screen by operating the cross key button 42c. In this embodiment, the automatic ball lending function is included in various functions that can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. That is, the automatic ball lending function can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. When the automatic ball lending function is enabled, automatic lending of game balls (hereinafter referred to as "automatic ball lending") is executed when the number of balls held becomes 0 [balls]. On the other hand, when the automatic ball lending function is disabled, automatic ball lending is not executed even if the number of balls held becomes 0 [balls]. In this way, in this embodiment, the player can select and set the automatic ball lending function to be enabled or disabled as desired. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which the automatic ball lending function is executed when the number of balls owned reaches 0 for a player who intends to end the game when the number of balls owned reaches 0. In this embodiment, while the game is in a playable state, the menu screen can be displayed by pressing the menu button at any time. This makes it possible to enable or disable the automatic ball lending function at any time while the game is in a playable state. In addition, in this embodiment, the automatic ball lending function is disabled when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on.

[0069] (First embodiment) First, the automatic ball lending function according to the first embodiment will be described. In the automatic ball lending function according to the first embodiment, an automatic ball lending cancellation period is set as a grace period for the player to disable the automatic ball lending function before the automatic ball lending is executed. That is, the automatic ball lending is executed when the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area becomes 0 [balls]. In particular, in this embodiment, the automatic ball lending is executed only if the operation of the launch handle is detected (sensed) when the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area becomes 0 [balls]. At this time, in this embodiment, an automatic ball lending cancellation period is set before the automatic ball lending is executed. In this embodiment, when the rotation operation of the launch handle is detected (when the handle volume signal is in the ON state), it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and when the rotation operation of the launch handle is not detected (when the handle volume signal is in the OFF state), it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected. In addition, if contact with the launch handle by the player is detected (if the touch signal input from touch sensor 411 is in the ON state), it may be determined that operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and if contact with the launch handle by the player is not detected (if the touch signal input from touch sensor 411 is in the OFF state), it may be determined that operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected.

[0070] That is, in this embodiment, the main control board 200 is able to grasp the input status of the handle volume signal (that is, whether or not the player has rotated the firing handle) based on the input status of the handle operation signal. When the automatic ball lending function is enabled and the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area becomes 0 [balls], if the player's operation of the launch handle is detected, the automatic ball lending cancellation period is started. If the automatic ball lending function is not disabled before the automatic ball lending cancellation period has elapsed, the automatic ball lending is executed. The "automatic ball lending cancellation period" is a grace period until automatic ball lending is executed. During the automatic ball lending cancellation period, the player is informed that the automatic ball lending function is active (automatic ball lending will be executed when the automatic ball lending cancellation period ends), and is also informed of a method for disabling the automatic ball lending function. In this embodiment, during the automatic ball lending cancellation period, an automatic ball lending cancellation image is displayed on the display screen 31a. The automatic ball lending cancellation image displays information suggesting (informing) that automatic ball lending will be executed when the automatic ball lending cancellation period ends (for example, text such as "Automatic ball lending will be executed in xx seconds") and information suggesting (informing) a method for disabling the automatic ball lending function (for example, text such as "To disable the automatic ball lending function, press the effect button"). During the automatic ball lending cancellation period, the automatic ball lending function can be disabled in a simpler manner than during other periods excluding the automatic ball lending cancellation period. That is, during other periods excluding the automatic ball lending cancellation period, it is necessary to press the menu button to display the menu screen, and then press the cross key button 42c on the menu screen to disable the automatic ball lending function. In contrast, during the automatic ball lending cancellation period, it is possible to disable the automatic ball lending function simply by pressing the effect button 5b.

[0071] The automatic ball lending cancellation period ends when either of the following conditions is met: (1) the automatic ball lending function is disabled, and (2) a predetermined time (10 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since its start. Furthermore, when the automatic ball lending cancellation period ends due to the automatic ball lending function being disabled (when the automatic ball lending function is disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period), automatic ball lending is not executed. On the other hand, when the automatic ball lending cancellation period ends after a predetermined time has elapsed (when the automatic ball lending function is not disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period), the automatic ball lending is executed at the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period. That is, the main control board 200 transmits an automatic ball lending command to the dedicated unit UN via the frame control board 400 at the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period. When the dedicated unit UN receives an automatic ball lending command from the frame control board 400, it first judges whether the number of game balls (hereinafter referred to as "reserved ball number") indicated by the value information stored in the inserted storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of lent balls (125 [balls] in this embodiment). If it judges that the number of reserved balls stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of lent balls, it subtracts the predetermined number of lent balls from the number of reserved balls stored in the storage medium and transmits a lending command to the frame control board 400 to specify the lending of the predetermined number of lent game balls. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of balls stored in the storage medium is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number of balls to be lent, it further determines whether the remaining amount indicated by the value information stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (the amount required to lend out 125 balls). If it is determined that the remaining amount stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, it subtracts the predetermined amount from the remaining amount stored in the storage medium, and transmits a lending command to the frame control board 400 to specify the lending out of the predetermined number of balls to be lent. On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining amount stored in the storage medium is less than the predetermined amount, the transmission of a lending command to the frame control board 400 is not executed.

[0072] Here, in this embodiment, in a state where the automatic ball lending function is set to be enabled, when the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area becomes 0 [balls], if the operation of the launching handle by the player is detected, even if the operation of the launching handle by the player is not detected during the automatic ball lending cancellation period, the automatic ball lending is executed in response to the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period (when the automatic ball lending function is not disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period). However, in this case, the automatic ball lending may be executed in response to the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period only if the operation of the launching handle by the player continues to be detected until the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period (when the automatic ball lending function is not disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period). In addition, in this embodiment, when automatic ball lending is executed, the number of saved balls is used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. However, when automatic ball lending is executed, the remaining balance may be used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. Alternatively, when automatic ball lending is executed, the menu screen may be configured to allow the user to select whether the number of saved balls is used up first or the remaining balance is used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. In addition, in this embodiment, once the automatic ball lending cancellation period is set, the automatic ball lending cancellation period may not be set (i.e., automatic ball lending is not executed) even if the number of balls held becomes 0 [balls] again unless the number of balls held increases to a predetermined reference number or more. In this case, it is preferable to set the predetermined reference number to a number greater than the maximum number of prize balls (the maximum number of prize balls paid out in response to the entry of game balls into the winning holes 51 to 55) and less than the predetermined number of loaned balls (125 [balls] in this embodiment). Furthermore, in this embodiment, a dedicated button for disabling the automatic ball lending function may be provided on the lower decorative unit 40, etc.

[0073] In this embodiment, when the automatic ball lending function is set to enabled and the end of a player's game (changing of players) is detected, the automatic ball lending function is set to disabled. Specifically, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and no game is being played (when the special pattern variable display (variation time) and stop display (stop time) are not being executed, and when a small win game state is not occurring, and when a big win game state is not occurring (hereinafter referred to as a "waiting for customers state")), if a state in which no game balls are shot into the game area 30 continues for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 [s]), the automatic ball lending function is disabled. For example, when a state in which no game balls are detected by the out ball switch 571 continues for a predetermined time during the waiting for customers state, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. In addition, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled, if a counting operation is performed, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. For example, if the counting button 41b is pressed and held (a counting operation in which the counting button 41 is pressed for a period of time equal to or longer than a reference time), the automatic ball lending function is disabled. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which, when a player is replaced in the pachinko machine 1, automatic ball lending is unintentionally executed while the new player is playing.

[0074] (Control of automatic ball lending function according to the first embodiment) Next, the control method of the automatic ball lending function in the first embodiment will be explained in detail. First, the automatic ball lending management process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the automatic ball lending management process according to the first embodiment. The CPU of the main control board 200 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined interval based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The automatic ball lending management process is included in the timer interrupt process. When the automatic ball lending management process starts, the process first proceeds to step S1-1. In step S1-1, it is determined whether or not the automatic ball lending cancellation period is in effect. If it is determined that the automatic ball lending cancellation period is not in effect (No), the process proceeds to step S1-2. If it is determined that the automatic ball lending cancellation period is in effect (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-7. In step S1-2, it is determined whether the automatic ball lending function is enabled or not, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-3, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is not enabled (the automatic ball lending function is disabled) (No), the current automatic ball lending management process is terminated.

[0075] In step S1-3, it is determined whether or not a frame control command has been received, and if it is determined that a frame control command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-4, and if it is determined that a frame control command has not been received (No), the current automatic ball loan management process is terminated. In step S1-4, it is determined whether the number of balls specified by the frame control command (the information on the number of balls held contained in the frame control command) is "0" or not. If it is determined that the number of balls held is "0" (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-5. If it is determined that the number of balls held is not "0" (No), it terminates the current automatic ball loan management process. In step S1-5, it is determined whether or not the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and if it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-6, and if it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected (No), it ends this automatic ball dispensing management process. At this time, the main control board 200 determines whether or not the launch handle has been operated by the player based on the input status of the handle operation signal.

[0076] In step S1-6, an automatic ball lending cancellation period start process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-7. In the automatic ball lending cancellation period start process, the automatic ball lending cancellation period is started. Specifically, the automatic ball lending cancellation period start processing starts the display of an automatic ball lending cancellation image on the display screen 31a, and starts a state in which the automatic ball lending function can be disabled by pressing the effect button 5b. The main control board 200 is also configured to include an automatic ball lending cancellation timer. The automatic ball lending cancellation timer measures the automatic ball lending cancellation time (the duration of the automatic start ball cancellation period). In the automatic ball lending cancellation period start process, the automatic ball lending cancellation timer is set to a predetermined initial value (specifically, 0 [s]) and measurement of the automatic ball lending cancellation time is started. The value of the automatic ball lending cancellation timer is updated (added) by a process not shown. In step S1-7, it is determined whether the automatic ball lending function is disabled or not, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is not disabled (the automatic ball lending function is enabled) (No), it proceeds to step S1-8, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is disabled (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-10. In step S1-8, it is determined whether the automatic ball lending cancellation time measured by the automatic ball lending cancellation time timer has reached a predetermined time (10 [s] in this embodiment), and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending cancellation time has reached the predetermined time (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-9, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending cancellation time has not reached the predetermined time (No), the current automatic ball lending management process is terminated.

[0077] In step S1-9, the automatic ball lending process is executed, and the automatic ball lending management process is terminated. In the automatic ball lending process, the automatic ball lending is executed. Specifically, in the automatic ball lending process, an automatic ball lending command is sent to the dedicated unit UN via the frame control board 400. As a result, the dedicated unit UN transmits a lending command specifying the lending of a predetermined number of game balls to the frame control board 400 in response to receiving the automatic ball lending command, on the condition that the number of stored balls stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of lent balls, or the amount of the remaining balance stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. Then, in response to receiving the lending command, the frame control board 400 adds the predetermined number of lent balls to the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area. In this manner, the automatic ball lending is executed. In step S1-10, the automatic ball lending cancellation period end process is executed, and the automatic ball lending management process is ended. In the automatic ball lending cancellation period end process, the automatic ball lending cancellation period is ended. Specifically, in the automatic ball lending cancellation period termination process, the display of the automatic ball lending cancellation image on the display screen 31a is terminated, and the state in which the automatic ball lending function can be set to invalid by pressing the effect button 5b is terminated. In addition, the measurement of the automatic ball lending cancellation time by the automatic ball lending cancellation time timer is terminated.

[0078] Next, the automatic ball lending function management process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the automatic ball lending function management process. The CPU of the main control board 200 executes timer interrupt processing at a predetermined cycle based on the generation of clock pulses by the clock generating circuit. The automatic ball dispensing function management processing is included in the timer interrupt processing. When the automatic ball dispensing function management processing starts, the process first proceeds to step S2-1. In step S2-1, it is determined whether the automatic ball lending function is enabled or not, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-2, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is not enabled (the automatic ball lending function is disabled) (No), the current automatic ball lending function management process is terminated. In step S2-2, it is determined whether or not the vehicle is waiting for a customer. If it is determined that the vehicle is waiting for a customer (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-3. If it is determined that the vehicle is not waiting for a customer (No), the process proceeds to step S2-4. In step S2-3, it is determined whether the duration of the state in which an out ball has not been detected while waiting for customers (hereinafter referred to as the "non-operating time") has reached a predetermined time (30 seconds in this embodiment), and if it is determined that the non-operating time has not reached the predetermined time (No), the process proceeds to step S2-4, and if it is determined that the non-operating time has reached the predetermined time (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-5. In step S2-4, it is determined whether or not a counting operation has been performed, and if it is determined that a counting operation has been performed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-5, and if it is determined that a counting operation has not been performed (No), the current automatic ball lending function management process is terminated. In step S2-5, the automatic ball lending function is disabled, and the automatic ball lending function management process is terminated. In the automatic ball lending function disable process, the automatic ball lending function is disabled.

[0079] Next, a specific example of the control of the automatic loan ball zero balls retained notification according to the first embodiment will be described. When a game ball is released, the frame control board 400 subtracts 1 [ball] from the number of balls held stored in the ball number memory area, and transmits a frame control command including information indicating the number of balls held after the subtraction to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 starts the automatic ball lending cancellation period when the number of balls specified in the received frame control command is "0" and operation of the launch handle is detected, provided that the automatic ball lending function is set to enabled. If the automatic ball lending function is not disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period, the automatic ball lending is executed in response to the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period. On the other hand, if the automatic ball lending function is disabled during the automatic ball lending cancellation period, the automatic ball lending is not executed. As a result, if the operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held becomes "0" due to the launch of a game ball, the automatic ball lending is executed after an automatic ball lending cancellation period, which serves as a grace period for disabling the automatic ball lending function.

[0080] Second embodiment Next, the automatic ball lending function according to the second embodiment will be described. In the automatic ball lending function according to the second embodiment, before the automatic ball lending is executed, a notification that the automatic ball lending will be executed is provided. That is, automatic ball lending is executed when the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area becomes 0 [balls]. In particular, in this embodiment, automatic ball lending is executed only if the operation of the launch handle is detected (sensed) when the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area becomes 0 [balls]. Also, in this embodiment, when the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area decreases to a specified number (specified number > 0 [balls]), a prior notice is executed to notify in advance of the execution of automatic ball lending. In this embodiment, when the rotation operation of the launch handle is detected (when the handle volume signal is in the ON state), it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and when the rotation operation of the launch handle is not detected (when the handle volume signal is in the OFF state), it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected. In addition, if contact with the launch handle by the player is detected (if the touch signal input from touch sensor 411 is in the ON state), it may be determined that operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and if contact with the launch handle by the player is not detected (if the touch signal input from touch sensor 411 is in the OFF state), it may be determined that operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected.

[0081] In other words, in this embodiment, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area decreases to a specified number (30 balls in this embodiment), a prior notice is first given. The "advance notice" is a notice (notification) regarding the automatic lending of game balls. The advance notice suggests (notifies) the player that the automatic ball lending function is active (automatic ball lending will be executed when the number of balls held reaches 0 [balls]), and suggests (notifies) a method for disabling the automatic ball lending function. In this embodiment, during the advance notice, an advance notice image is displayed on the display screen 31a. The advance notice image displays information suggesting (notifying) that automatic ball lending will be executed when the number of balls held reaches 0 [balls] (for example, text such as "Automatic ball lending will be executed when there are no more balls in hand") and information suggesting (notifying) a method for disabling the automatic ball lending function (for example, text such as "The automatic ball lending function can be disabled on the menu screen"). After that, when the automatic ball dispensing function is set to be active and the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area becomes 0 [balls], if the operation of the launch handle by the player is detected, the automatic ball dispensing is executed. At this time, in this embodiment, the main control board 200 is able to grasp the input status of the handle volume signal (i.e., whether or not the player has rotated the launch handle) based on the input status of the handle operation signal. That is, when the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area becomes 0 [balls], if the operation of the launch handle by the player is detected, the main control board 200 transmits an automatic ball lending command to the frame control board 400 in response to the number of balls held becoming 0 [balls]. In addition, when the frame control board 400 receives the automatic ball lending command from the main control board 200, it transmits the automatic ball lending command to the dedicated unit UN. When the dedicated unit UN receives an automatic ball lending command from the frame control board 400, it first judges whether the number of game balls (hereinafter referred to as "reserved ball number") indicated by the value information stored in the inserted storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of lent balls (125 [balls] in this embodiment). If it judges that the number of reserved balls stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of lent balls, it subtracts the predetermined number of lent balls from the number of reserved balls stored in the storage medium and transmits a lending command to the frame control board 400 to specify the lending of the predetermined number of lent game balls. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of balls stored in the storage medium is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number of balls to be lent, it further determines whether the remaining amount indicated by the value information stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (the amount required to lend out 125 balls). If it is determined that the remaining amount stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, it subtracts the predetermined amount from the remaining amount stored in the storage medium, and transmits a lending command to the frame control board 400 to specify the lending out of the predetermined number of balls to be lent. On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining amount stored in the storage medium is less than the predetermined amount, the transmission of a lending command to the frame control board 400 is not executed.

[0082] Here, in this embodiment, when automatic ball lending is executed, the number of saved balls is used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. However, when automatic ball lending is executed, the remaining balance may be used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. Alternatively, when automatic ball lending is executed, the menu screen may be configured to allow the user to select whether the number of saved balls is used up first or the remaining balance is used up first among the number of saved balls and the remaining balance stored in the storage medium. In addition, in this embodiment, a dedicated button for disabling the automatic ball lending function may be provided on the lower decorative unit 40, etc.

[0083] In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the automatic ball lending function is set to enabled and the end of a player's game is detected, the automatic ball lending function is set to disabled. Specifically, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled, if a state in which no game balls are released into the game area 30 continues for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 [s]) during a customer waiting state, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. For example, if a state in which no game balls are detected by the out ball switch 571 continues for a predetermined time during a customer waiting state, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. In addition, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled, if a counting operation is performed, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. For example, if the counting button 41b is pressed and held (a counting operation in which the counting button 41 is pressed for a period of time equal to or longer than a reference time), the automatic ball lending function is disabled. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which, when a player is replaced in the pachinko machine 1, automatic ball lending is unintentionally executed while the new player is playing.

[0084] (Control of automatic ball lending function according to the second embodiment) Next, the control method of the automatic ball lending function according to the second embodiment will be specifically explained. First, the automatic ball lending management process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the automatic ball lending management process according to the second embodiment. The CPU of the main control board 200 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined interval based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The automatic ball lending management process is included in the timer interrupt process. When the automatic ball lending management process starts, the process first proceeds to step S3-1. In step S3-1, it is determined whether the automatic ball lending function is enabled or not, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S3-2, and if it is determined that the automatic ball lending function is not enabled (the automatic ball lending function is disabled) (No), the current automatic ball lending management process is terminated.

[0085] In step S3-2, it is determined whether or not a frame control command has been received, and if it is determined that a frame control command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S3-3, and if it is determined that a frame control command has not been received (No), the current automatic ball loan management process is terminated. In step S3-3, it is determined whether the number of balls possessed has decreased to a specified number (30 [balls] in this embodiment), and if it is determined that the number of balls possessed has decreased to the specified number (Yes), it proceeds to step S3-4, and if it is determined that the number of balls possessed has not decreased to the specified number (No), it proceeds to step S3-5. Here, in this embodiment, when the number of balls held increases to a specified number, the process does not proceed to step S3-4 but proceeds to step S3-5. This avoids a situation in which a pre-notification is issued when the number of balls held increases to a specified number. Whether or not the number of balls held has decreased to a specified number is determined based on the number of balls held stored in the number of balls held storage area and the number of balls held specified by the frame control command (the number of balls held information included in the frame control command).

[0086] In step S3-4, a prior notification process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-5. In the prior notification process, a prior notification is executed. Specifically, in the prior notification process, a prior notification image starts to be displayed on the display screen 31a. In step S3-5, it is determined whether the number of balls specified by the frame control command (the information on the number of balls held contained in the frame control command) is "0" or not. If it is determined that the number of balls held is "0" (Yes), it proceeds to step S3-6. If it is determined that the number of balls held is not "0" (No), it terminates the current automatic ball loan management process. In step S3-6, it is determined whether or not the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected, and if it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has been detected (Yes), it proceeds to step S3-7, and if it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected (No), it ends this automatic ball dispensing management process. At this time, the main control board 200 determines whether or not the launch handle has been operated by the player based on the input status of the handle operation signal. In step S3-7, the automatic ball lending process is executed, and the automatic ball lending management process is terminated. In the automatic ball lending process, the automatic ball lending is executed. Specifically, in the automatic ball lending process, an automatic ball lending command is sent to the dedicated unit UN via the frame control board 400. As a result, the dedicated unit UN transmits a lending command specifying the lending of a predetermined number of game balls to the frame control board 400 in response to receiving the automatic ball lending command, on the condition that the number of stored balls stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of lent balls, or the amount of the remaining balance stored in the storage medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. Then, in response to receiving the lending command, the frame control board 400 adds the predetermined number of lent balls to the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area. In this manner, the automatic ball lending is executed.

[0087] In this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the CPU of the main control board 200: The automatic ball lending function management process (see Figure 10) is executed. With this, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and the end of a game by a player is detected, the automatic ball lending function is disabled. Also, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and a counting operation is performed, the automatic ball lending function is disabled.

[0088] Next, a specific example of the control of the automatic loan ball zero balls retained notification according to the second embodiment will be described. When a game ball is released, the frame control board 400 subtracts 1 [ball] from the number of balls held stored in the ball number memory area, and transmits a frame control command including information indicating the number of balls held after the subtraction to the main control board 200. In response to receiving a frame control command, the main control board 200 executes advance notification when the number of balls stored in the ball number memory area decreases to a specified number (30 [balls] in this embodiment). Thereafter, the main control board 200 executes automatic ball lending if it detects operation of the launch handle when the number of balls held specified in the received frame control command becomes "0", provided that the automatic ball lending function is set to enabled. In other words, if the automatic ball lending function is not disabled during the period from when the advance notice is issued until the number of balls owned becomes "0", the automatic ball lending will be executed when the number of balls owned becomes "0". On the other hand, if the automatic ball lending function is disabled during the period from when the advance notice is issued until the number of balls owned becomes "0", the automatic ball lending will not be executed when the number of balls owned becomes "0". As a result, if operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held becomes "0" due to the launch of a game ball, automatic ball lending is executed without going through the automatic ball lending cancellation period as in the first embodiment.

[0089] (Function of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 400 that launches game balls into the game area 30 in response to operation of the launch handle, a frame control board 400 that manages the number of balls held, and a main control board 200 that, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled, is capable of outputting a command regarding the lending of game balls (automatic ball lending command) to a dedicated unit UN when operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held is 0. That is, in the pachinko machine 1, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and the number of balls held is 0, a command for lending game balls (automatic ball lending command) is output to the dedicated unit UN in response to detection of operation of the launch handle. As a result, when the automatic ball lending function is enabled and the number of balls held becomes 0 as a result of the launch of game balls, it becomes possible to lend game balls by continuing to launch game balls. Therefore, when lending game balls, it is no longer necessary to press the lending button of the dedicated unit UN, which improves convenience for the player. In particular, in the pachinko machine 1, when the number of balls held by the player decreases to a specified number (30 balls in this embodiment), a prior notice is given regarding the automatic lending of game balls. This allows a prior notice regarding the automatic lending of game balls to be given before the number of balls held by the player reaches 0. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which the automatic lending of game balls is executed unintentionally by the player, and further improves convenience for the player.

[0090] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, various modifications can be made to the above embodiment. For example, in the first embodiment, on the condition that the automatic ball lending function is enabled, if the operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held reaches "0", an automatic ball lending cancellation period is set first, and automatic ball lending is executed upon the end of the automatic ball lending cancellation period. However, a configuration in which the automatic ball lending cancellation period is not set is also acceptable. In other words, on the condition that the automatic ball lending function is enabled, a configuration in which automatic ball lending is executed on the condition that the operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held reaches "0". Furthermore, in the above second embodiment, the automatic ball lending function is enabled, and if the operation of the launch handle is detected when the number of balls held becomes "0" as a result of the launch of a game ball, the automatic ball lending is executed. However, the automatic ball lending may be executed regardless of whether the operation of the launch handle is detected. In other words, the automatic ball lending function may be enabled, and if the number of balls held becomes "0" as a result of the launch of a game ball, the automatic ball lending is executed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1. Pachinko Machines 200 Main control board 300 Production control board 400 Frame Control Board

Claims

1. A launch control means for launching a game ball into a game area in response to an operation of the operation means; A means for managing the number of balls held; A gaming machine characterized by comprising an output means capable of outputting a command regarding the lending of gaming balls to a dedicated unit when operation of the operating means is detected when the number of balls held is 0 when a specified function is enabled.

2. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the number of balls held by the player is reduced to a predetermined number, a notification is given regarding automatic lending of gaming balls.

Images