Game machine

Abstract

To facilitate adjustment of an operation amount of operation means to an appropriate operation amount when a player starts to play a game.SOLUTION: In a Pachinko machine 1, notification (notification of too little information / notification of too much information) is executed when a voltage value of a shooting volume signal output from shooting volume 410 is out of an appropriate range. Thereby, it is possible to adjust an operation amount of a shooting handle to an appropriate operation amount on the basis of the notification (notification of too little information / notification of too much information). This makes it easy to adjust an operation amount of a shooting handle to an appropriate operation amount when a player starts to play a game.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of controlling the strength with which a gaming ball is launched in accordance with the voltage value of a signal output from a launch volume. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a gaming machine capable of controlling the strength with which a gaming ball is launched in accordance with the voltage value of a signal output from a launch volume (see Patent Document 1). In this gaming machine, a launch volume is provided inside the launch handle. The launch volume is variable so that the voltage value of the signal it outputs can be changed according to the amount of rotation of the launch handle. The strength with which the game ball is launched into the game area is controlled according to the voltage value of the signal output by the launch volume. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-11965 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional gaming machines, it may be difficult for a player to adjust the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount when starting a game. An object of the present invention is to make it easy for a player to adjust the amount of operation of an operating means to an appropriate amount when starting a game. [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 is equipped with a launch volume capable of changing a voltage value according to the amount of operation of an operating means, and a control means capable of controlling the strength of launching a gaming ball according to the voltage value, and is capable of adjusting the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount based on an alert that is issued when the voltage value is outside of an appropriate range. In the gaming machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, when the voltage value of the signal output from the firing volume is outside the appropriate range, a notification is issued. This makes it possible to adjust the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount based on the notification. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily adjust the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount when the player starts playing. Here, the operation means corresponds to a firing handle, which will be described later. The firing volume corresponds to a firing volume 410, which will be described later. The control means corresponds to a frame control board 400, which will be described later. The appropriate range corresponds to an appropriate range, which will be described later. The notification corresponds to a notification of insufficient information and a notification of excessive information, 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, the notification is executed when the voltage value is outside an appropriate range, and the notification is stopped when the voltage value is within the appropriate range. In the gaming machine according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to further facilitate adjusting the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount of operation based on whether or not a notification is executed.

[0007] The gaming machine of the third invention is characterized in that, in the gaming machine of the first or second invention, it is possible to switch whether or not to enable a specified mode in which the notification can be executed. In the gaming machine according to the third aspect of the present invention, for experienced players, the annoyance of notifications can be reduced by switching the predetermined mode to disabled. Here, the predetermined mode corresponds to a launch position assist function, which will be described later. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to facilitate adjustment of the amount of operation of the operating means to an appropriate amount when the player starts a game. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [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] 13 is a flowchart showing a process performed when a frame control command is received. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing a notification management process for a decrease in balls in possession. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing a ball count monitoring process. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing a zero balls in hand notification management process. [Figure 13] A flowchart showing a winning ball monitoring process. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing a ball increase notification management process. [Figure 15] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image that is displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is insufficient. FIG. [Figure 16]13 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image that is displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is excessive. FIG. [Figure 17] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image that is displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is appropriate. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] 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.

[0011] (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 specifying the lending of a predetermined number of game balls (125 balls in this embodiment) each time the lending button is pressed after a bill or card is inserted. Then, each time the pachinko machine 1 receives a lending command from the dedicated unit UN, it adds the predetermined number of balls to the number of balls it has in possession. This allows the player to fire game balls in the pachinko machine 1 up to the number of balls it has in possession. 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.

[0012] (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).

[0013] (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.

[0014] (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.

[0015] (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. 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 firing handle can be rotated by a player. Inside the firing handle unit 6, a firing volume 410 (see FIG. 8) is disposed. The firing volume 410 is composed of a variable resistor. The firing volume 410 detects the amount of rotation of the firing handle (the angle at which the firing handle is rotated). The firing volume 410 then outputs a signal (hereinafter referred to as a "handle volume signal") corresponding to the detected amount of rotation (angle) of the firing handle to the frame control board 400 (see FIG. 8). Specifically, the firing volume 410 includes a rotation shaft and a resistor (variable resistor) whose resistance value changes according to the amount of rotation (rotation angle) of the rotation shaft. The rotation shaft of the firing volume 410 is fixed coaxially to the rotation shaft of the firing handle. As a result, the rotation shaft of the firing volume 410 rotates according to the rotation operation of the firing handle, and the resistance value of the firing volume 410 changes according to the amount of rotation operation of the firing handle, and the voltage value of the handle volume signal output to the frame control board 400 (handle volume signal detected in the frame control board 400) changes. When the frame control board 400 detects the rotation operation of the launch handle, it controls the launch of the game ball by the launch device 560 (launch motor 561) so that the game ball is launched into the game area 30 with an intensity according to the amount of rotation operation of the launch handle operating section (the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410). In this embodiment, the handle volume signal output by the firing volume 410 is input to both the frame control board 400 and the main control board 200. This makes it possible for the main control board 200 to detect the amount of rotation of the firing handle (the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the firing volume 410). 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 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 sorting means 53b is displaced by a V sorting 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). 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] The pachinko machine 1 is also 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 game 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] (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.

[0063] (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. When starting a new game in the pachinko machine 1, 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. Each time the frame control board 400 receives a loan command, a predetermined number of balls to be lent (125 [balls] in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls 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).

[0064] 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] (Decrease in balls) Next, the notification of a decrease in the number of balls carried out by the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The performance control board 300 is capable of executing a ball count reduction notification. The ball count reduction notification is a notification regarding a reduction in the number of balls held (approaching 0 [balls]). In this embodiment, only a display effect is executed as a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand. That is, a notification image of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is displayed on the display screen 31a as a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand. The notification image of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is configured to include a display of information (in this embodiment, the text "You have fewer balls in the hand. Please be careful.") that notifies (suggests) a decrease in the number of balls in the hand (the number of balls in the hand is approaching 0 [balls]). Note that a configuration in which a display effect and a sound effect are executed as a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand may also be executed. That is, a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand may also be configured to display a notification image of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand and output a sound that notifies (suggests) a decrease in the number of balls in the hand (the number of balls in the hand is approaching 0 [balls]). In the pachinko machine 1, the number of balls held is managed as numerical data, so it is difficult for the player to recognize the reduction in the number of balls held. Therefore, by providing a function to notify the player of the reduction in the number of balls held, it becomes possible to easily recognize the reduction in the number of balls held, and it becomes possible to prevent a situation in which the number of balls held becomes 0 [balls] without the player realizing, and the player falls into a state in which the game cannot proceed.

[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 notifications to be enabled (ON state) or disabled (OFF state) on the menu screen by operating the cross key button 42c. In this embodiment, the various notifications that can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen include a pitch count reduction notification. That is, the pitch count reduction notification can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. When the pitch count reduction notification is enabled, the pitch count reduction notification is executed as the number of pitches in possession decreases. On the other hand, when the pitch count reduction notification is disabled, the pitch count reduction notification is not executed even if the number of pitches in possession decreases. In this way, in this embodiment, the player can select and set the ball reduction notification to be enabled or disabled as desired. This makes it possible for players who always need to know the number of balls they have while playing to avoid the annoyance of the notification by setting the ball reduction notification to disabled.

[0069] The notification of a decrease in the number of balls in possession is initiated when the number of balls in possession stored in the number of balls in possession storage area decreases to a first reference number or less (in this embodiment, 30 [balls]). In particular, in this embodiment, when the number of balls in possession stored in the number of balls in possession storage area decreases to a first reference number or less, the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in possession is initiated only if the notification permission state is set. In other words, in this embodiment, the main control board 200 is capable of setting either a notification permitted state in which the initiation (execution) of a ball count reduction notification is permitted, or a notification prohibited state in which the initiation (execution) of a ball count reduction notification is prohibited. Then, when the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area decreases to a first reference number or less, if the notification permitted state is set, a notification of a decrease in balls is initiated and the notification prohibited state is set instead of the notification permitted state. Also, during the period when the notification prohibited state is set, a notification of a decrease in balls is not initiated even if the number of balls stored in the ball count storage area decreases to a first reference number or less. Furthermore, when the notification prohibited state is set, if the number of balls increases to a second reference number (in this embodiment, 100 [balls]) or more, the notification prohibited state is released and the notification permitted state is set. Here, the second reference number is a number greater than the first reference number. As a result, if the number of balls remaining increases to a number greater than the first reference number after a ball count reduction notification has been executed, and then the number of balls remaining does not increase to the second reference number or greater, and then the number of balls remaining decreases to the first reference number or less again, a ball count reduction notification will not be executed.On the other hand, if the number of balls remaining increases to a number greater than the first reference number after a ball count reduction notification has been executed, and then the number of balls remaining increases to the second reference number or greater, and then the number of balls remaining decreases to the first reference number or less again, a ball count reduction notification will be executed. In other words, once a pitch count reduction notification has been issued, the pitch count reduction notification will not be issued again even if the pitch count falls below the first reference number unless the pitch count increases above the second reference number. This makes it possible to prevent repeated notifications of pitch count reduction when the pitch count increases or decreases across the first reference number.

[0070] The ball reduction notification ends when one of the following conditions is met: (1) a predetermined duration (10 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since the notification began; and (2) a ball loan operation has been executed. With this configuration, if a ball lending operation is not performed from the start of the ball reduction notification until the predetermined duration has elapsed, the ball reduction notification is terminated in response to the elapse of the predetermined duration. On the other hand, if a ball lending operation is performed before the predetermined duration has elapsed from the start of the ball reduction notification, the ball reduction notification is terminated in response to the execution of the ball lending operation. Here, when a ball lending operation is executed, a sound effect (for example, a jingling sound output) that notifies (indicates) the execution of a ball lending operation is executed, a predetermined number of balls to be lent (125 [balls] in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area, and a predetermined number of lent balls is added to the number of balls displayed on the ball number display unit 41a. At this time, if the ball reduction notification is terminated in response to the execution of a ball lending operation, it is preferable that the ball reduction notification is terminated before the sound effect that suggests the execution of a ball lending operation is started and before the predetermined number of lent balls is added to the number of balls displayed on the ball number display unit 41a. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which a player mistakenly believes that a ball lending operation (depression of the lending button) has not been detected normally and unintentionally executes ball lending operations continuously. By ending the notification of the number of balls remaining when a predetermined duration (10 [s] in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the notification of the number of balls remaining, it is possible to prevent a situation in which a player who intends to end the game when the number of balls remaining reaches 0 [balls] feels bothered by the notification. Also, in the pachinko machine 1, when a player is replaced, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the notification of the number of balls remaining is being executed when the new player starts playing, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in the motivation of the new player to play. In addition, the ball reduction notification may be configured to end when any of the following conditions are met: (1) a predetermined duration (in this embodiment, 10 seconds) has elapsed since its initiation, (2) the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area has reached a second reference number (in this embodiment, 100 balls), or (3) a ball lending operation has been executed.

[0071] (No balls in hand notification) Next, the zero balls notification executed in the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The performance control board 300 is capable of executing a zero balls retained notification. The zero balls retained notification is a notification regarding the fact that there are no more balls retained (the number of balls retained is 0 [balls]). In this embodiment, a display effect and a sound effect are executed as the zero balls remaining notification. That is, in the zero balls remaining notification, a zero balls remaining notification image is displayed on the display screen 31a as a display effect. The zero balls remaining notification image is configured to include a display of information (in this embodiment, the text "No balls remaining") notifying (suggesting) that there are no more balls remaining (the number of balls remaining is 0 [balls]). In addition, in the zero balls remaining notification, a sound effect is output from the sound generating device 22 (in this embodiment, the sound "No balls remaining") notifying (suggesting) that there are no more balls remaining (the number of balls remaining is 0 [balls]). As described above, in the pachinko machine 1, the number of balls held is managed as numerical data, so it is difficult for the player to recognize the reduction in the number of balls held. Therefore, by providing a function to execute a zero balls held notification, it becomes possible to easily recognize that there are no more balls left. In particular, in this embodiment, the zero balls held notification is configured to include a sound effect, so that even a player who is playing while looking at the screen of his / her mobile communication terminal can recognize that there are no more balls left.

[0072] In this embodiment, the zero balls in hand notification is included in the various notifications that can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. That is, the zero balls in hand notification can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. When the zero balls in hand notification is enabled, the zero balls in hand notification is executed when there are no more balls in hand. On the other hand, when the zero balls in hand notification is disabled, the zero balls in hand notification is not executed even when there are no more balls in hand. In this way, in this embodiment, the player can arbitrarily select and set the zero balls remaining notification to be enabled or disabled. This makes it possible for players who always need to know how many balls they have while playing to avoid the annoyance of the zero balls remaining notification by setting it to disabled.

[0073] The zero balls notification is initiated when the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area is reduced to 0 [balls]. In particular, in this embodiment, when the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area is reduced to 0 [balls], the zero balls notification is initiated only if the player is operating the launch handle (or there is a possibility that the player will operate the launch handle). In this embodiment, when contact with the launch handle by the player is detected (when the touch signal input from the touch sensor 411 is in the ON state), it is determined that the player is operating the launch handle, and when contact with the launch handle by the player is not detected (when the touch signal input from the touch sensor 411 is in the OFF state), it is determined that the player is not operating the launch handle. In addition, if a rotation operation of the launch handle is detected (if the handle volume signal is in the ON state), it may be determined that the player is operating the launch handle, and if a rotation operation of the launch handle is not detected (if the handle volume signal is in the OFF state), it may be determined that the player is not operating the launch handle. That is, in this embodiment, the main control board 200 is able to grasp the input status of the touch signal (that is, whether or not the player has operated the launch handle) based on the input status of the handle operation signal. When the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area is 0 [balls] and the operation of the launch handle by the player is detected, a zero balls notification is started. On the other hand, even if the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area is 0 [balls], if the operation of the launch handle by the player is not detected, a zero balls notification is not started. This makes it possible to inform players who intend to continue playing that they have run out of balls, while also making it possible to prevent a situation in which players who do not intend to continue playing are informed that they have run out of balls.

[0074] In this embodiment, when the zero balls remaining notification is set to enabled and the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area is 0 [balls], if the duration of the state in which no operation of the launch handle by the player is detected reaches a predetermined time (60 [s] in this embodiment), the zero balls remaining notification is set to disabled. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which, when a player is replaced in pachinko machine 1, an announcement that the player has no balls remaining is issued upon detection of the new player's operation of the launch handle, thereby preventing a decline in the new player's motivation to play.

[0075] The zero balls notification is terminated when one of the following conditions is met: (1) a predetermined duration (10 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since its initiation; and (2) a ball lending operation has been executed. With this configuration, if a ball lending operation is not performed from the start of the zero balls in hand notification until the predetermined duration has elapsed, the zero balls in hand notification is terminated in response to the elapse of the predetermined duration. On the other hand, if a ball lending operation is performed before the predetermined duration has elapsed from the start of the zero balls in hand notification, the zero balls in hand notification is terminated in response to the execution of the ball lending operation. Here, as described above, when a ball lending operation is performed, a sound effect (for example, a jingling sound) suggesting the execution of a ball lending operation is performed, a predetermined number of balls to be lent (125 [balls] in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area, and a predetermined number of lent balls is added to the number of balls displayed on the ball number display unit 41a. At this time, if the zero balls notification is terminated in response to the execution of a ball lending operation, it is preferable that the zero balls notification is terminated before the sound effect suggesting the execution of a ball lending operation is started and before the predetermined number of lent balls is added to the number of balls displayed on the ball number display unit 41a. This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which a player mistakenly believes that a ball lending operation (depression of the lending button) has not been detected normally and unintentionally executes ball lending operations continuously. By ending the zero balls remaining notification after a predetermined duration (10 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the zero balls remaining notification, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the zero balls remaining notification is still in progress when a player is replaced in the pachinko machine 1 and the new player begins playing, thereby making it possible to prevent a decrease in the new player's motivation to play. In addition, the zero balls remaining notification may be configured to end when any of the following conditions are met: (1) a predetermined duration (in this embodiment, 10 seconds) has elapsed since its initiation, (2) the number of balls remaining stored in the ball count memory area reaches a second reference number (in this embodiment, 100 balls), or (3) a ball lending operation has been executed.

[0076] (Increase in balls) Next, the notification of an increase in the number of balls held executed by the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The performance control board 300 is capable of executing a notification of an increase in the number of balls held. The notification of an increase in the number of balls held is a notification that the number of balls held has increased (a prize ball has been acquired). In particular, the notification of an increase in the number of balls held is an indirect notification that the number of balls held is decreasing (the number of balls held is approaching 0 [balls]). In detail, the notification of an increase in the number of balls held is a notification that the number of balls held has increased (a prize ball has been acquired) when the number of balls held is decreasing (the number of balls held is approaching 0 [balls]). In this embodiment, only a sound effect is executed as the notification of an increase in the number of balls held. That is, as the notification of an increase in the number of balls held, a sound (in this embodiment, a sound called "chinchirorin") is output from the sound generating device 22 to notify (suggest) that the number of balls held has increased (a prize ball has been acquired). Note that the notification of an increase in the number of balls held may be configured to execute both a display effect and a sound effect. That is, as the notification of an increase in the number of balls held, a display of an image on the display screen 31a to notify (suggest) that the number of balls held has increased (a prize ball has been acquired), and output of a sound by the sound generating device 22 to notify (suggest) that the number of balls held has increased (a prize ball has been acquired) may be executed. In the pachinko machine 1, the number of balls held is managed as numerical data, making it difficult for the player to recognize an increase in the number of balls held. Therefore, by providing a function to notify the player of an increase in the number of balls held, it becomes possible for the player to easily recognize that the number of balls held has increased.

[0077] In this embodiment, the various notifications that can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen include a notification of an increase in balls in possession. That is, the notification of an increase in balls in possession can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. When the notification of an increase in balls in possession is enabled, the notification of an increase in balls in possession is executed as the number of balls in possession increases. On the other hand, when the notification of an increase in balls in possession is disabled, the notification of an increase in balls in possession is not executed even if the number of balls in possession increases. In this way, in this embodiment, the player can arbitrarily select and set the ball increase notification to be enabled or disabled. This makes it possible for players who always need to know the number of balls they have while playing to avoid the annoyance of the notification by setting the ball increase notification to disabled.

[0078] The notification of an increase in the number of balls held is initiated as the number of balls held stored in the ball number storage area increases. In particular, in this embodiment, the notification of an increase in the number of balls held is initiated only when the number of balls held stored in the ball number storage area increases when the number of balls held is within a specific range. In this case, the "specific range" is a range that exceeds a first reference number (in this embodiment, 30 [balls]) and is equal to or smaller than a third reference number (in this embodiment, 50 [balls]). Here, the third reference number is a number that is greater than the first reference number and smaller than the second reference number. That is, in this embodiment, when the number of balls stored in the number of balls storage area is within a specific range, a notification of an increase in the number of balls is started when a prize ball is paid out. That is, when the number of balls stored in the number of balls storage area is within a specific range, a notification of an increase in the number of balls is started every time a prize ball is paid out. The notification of the increase in the number of balls held ends when a predetermined duration (1 [s] in this embodiment) has elapsed since the notification started. In particular, in this embodiment, a number (specifically, a third reference number) greater than the first reference number, which is the starting condition for the ball count reduction notification, is defined as the upper limit of the specific range. This makes it possible to notify (suggest) to the player that the number of balls in hand has decreased to the vicinity of the number at which the ball count reduction notification is executed, by executing the ball count increase notification. In addition, the first reference number, which is the starting condition for the ball count reduction notification, is defined as the lower limit of the specific range. This makes it possible to notify (suggest) to the player two stages of the decrease in the number of balls in hand: a stage at which the ball count increase notification is executed (a stage at which the number of balls in hand is somewhat decreased) and a stage at which the ball count reduction notification is executed (a stage at which the number of balls in hand is significantly decreased), and thus makes it possible to notify the player of the decrease in the number of balls in hand in stages.

[0079] In this embodiment, the specific range has a lower limit. However, the specific range may not have a lower limit. In other words, the specific range may be configured to start a ball increase notification when the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area is equal to or less than the third reference number and a prize ball is paid out. This makes it possible to start a ball increase notification each time a prize ball is paid out when the number of balls stored in the ball number storage area is equal to or less than the third reference number.

[0080] (Control of ball reduction notification) Next, a method for controlling the notification of a decrease in ball possession will be specifically described. First, the process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 when receiving a frame control command will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the process when a frame control command is received. As described above, the CPU of 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 CPU of the frame control board 400 replies to the main control board 200 with a frame control command including information indicating the number of balls stored in the number of balls memory area. In addition, each time the number of balls held stored in the ball count memory area is changed (updated), the CPU of the frame control board 400 sends a frame control command to the main control board 200, the frame control command including information indicating the number of balls held stored in the updated ball count memory area. Then, every time the CPU of the main control board 200 receives a frame control command, it executes a frame control command reception process shown in Fig. 9. When the frame control command reception process starts, the process first proceeds to step S1-1. In step S1-1, it is determined whether the number of balls specified by the frame control command (the number of balls included in the frame control command) is less than or equal to a first reference number (in this embodiment, 30 [balls]), and if it is determined that the number of balls specified by the frame control command is less than or equal to the first reference number (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-2, and if it is determined that the number of balls specified by the frame control command is not less than or equal to the first reference number (No), it proceeds to step S1-5.

[0081] In step S1-2, it is determined whether the notification permission state is being set, and if it is determined that the notification permission state is being set (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-3, and if it is determined that the notification permission state is not being set (the notification prohibition state is being set) (No), the process proceeds to step S1-5. At this time, if the value set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM is a value corresponding to the notification permission state (in this embodiment, "1"), the CPU of the main control board 200 determines that the notification permission state is being set, and if the value set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM is a value corresponding to the notification prohibition state (in this embodiment, "0"), the CPU of the main control board 200 sets a value corresponding to the notification permission state (in this embodiment, "1") in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM in response to power-on of the pachinko machine 1. In step S1-3, a command transmission process for indicating a decrease in number of balls is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-4. In the command transmission process for indicating a decrease in number of balls is executed, a command for indicating a decrease in number of balls is transmitted to the performance control board 300. In step S1-4, a notification prohibition state setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-5. In the notification prohibition state setting process, the notification prohibition state is set instead of the notification permission state. Specifically, in the notification prohibition state setting process, a value corresponding to the notification prohibition state ("0" in this embodiment) is set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM.

[0082] In step S1-5, it is determined whether the number of balls specified by the frame control command (the number of balls included in the frame control command) is greater than or equal to a second reference number (in this embodiment, 100 [balls]).If it is determined that the number of balls specified by the frame control command is greater than or equal to the second reference number (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-6, and if it is determined that the number of balls specified by the frame control command is not greater than or equal to the second reference number (No), it proceeds to step S1-8. In step S1-6, it is determined whether the notification prohibition state is being set, and if it is determined that the notification prohibition state is being set (Yes), the process proceeds to step S1-7, and if it is determined that the notification prohibition state is not being set (the notification permission state is being set) (No), the process proceeds to step S1-8. At this time, the CPU of the main control board 200 determines that the notification prohibition state is being set if the value set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM is a value corresponding to the notification prohibition state ("0" in this embodiment), and determines that the notification prohibition state is not being set if the value set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM is a value corresponding to the notification permission state ("1" in this embodiment). In step S1-7, a notification permission state setting process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1-8. In the notification permission state setting process, the notification permission state is set instead of the notification prohibition state. Specifically, in the notification permission state setting process, a value corresponding to the notification permission state ("1" in this embodiment) is set in the notification state flag area of ​​the RAM.

[0083] In step S1-8, it is determined whether the frame control command (the ball lending information contained in the frame control command) specifies "executing a ball lending operation", and if it is determined that the frame control command specifies "executing a ball lending operation" (Yes), it proceeds to step S1-9, and if it is determined that the frame control command does not specify "executing a ball lending operation" (No), it terminates the processing when the current frame control command is received. In step S1-9, a ball loan generation command transmission process is executed, and the process at the time of receiving the frame control command is terminated. In the ball loan generation command transmission process, the ball loan generation command is transmitted to the performance control board 300.

[0084] Next, the ball reduction notification management process executed by the CPU of the performance control board 300 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the process of managing a notification of a decrease in balls in possession. The CPU of the performance control board 300 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The timer interrupt process includes a ball reduction notification management process. When the ball reduction notification management process starts, the process first proceeds to step S2-1. In step S2-1, it is determined whether or not a pitch count reduction notification command has been received, and if it is determined that a pitch count reduction notification command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-2, and if it is determined that a pitch count reduction notification command has not been received (No), the process proceeds to step S2-4. In step S2-2, it is determined whether the ball count reduction notification is enabled or not, and if it is determined that the ball count reduction notification is enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-3, and if it is determined that the ball count reduction notification is not enabled (ball count reduction notification is disabled) (No), the process proceeds to step S2-4. In step S2-3, the process executes a ball count reduction notification start process, and then proceeds to step S2-4. In the ball count reduction notification start process, a ball count reduction notification is started. Specifically, the display of a ball count reduction notification image is started on the display screen 31a. Here, the performance control board 300 is configured to include a ball count reduction notification timer. The ball count reduction notification timer measures the duration of the ball count reduction notification. In the ball count reduction notification start process, the ball count reduction notification timer is set to a value of 10 [s], and measurement (countdown) of the duration of the ball count reduction notification is started. The value of the ball count reduction notification timer is updated (subtracted) by a process not shown.

[0085] In step S2-4, it is determined whether a ball count reduction notification is being executed, and if it is determined that a ball count reduction notification is being executed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-5, and if it is determined that a ball count reduction notification is not being executed (No), the current ball count reduction notification management process is terminated. In step S2-5, it is determined whether the ball count reduction alarm timer has timed out (whether the value of the ball count reduction alarm timer is 0 [s] or less), and if it is determined that the ball count reduction alarm timer has not timed out (No), it proceeds to step S2-6, and if it is determined that the ball count reduction alarm timer has timed out (Yes), it proceeds to step S2-7. In step S2-6, it is determined whether or not a loan ball generation designation command has been received, and if it is determined that a loan ball generation designation command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S2-7, and if it is determined that a loan ball generation designation command has not been received (No), the current ball reduction notification management process is terminated. In step S2-7, a process for ending the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is executed, and the current notification management process for a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is ended. In the process for ending the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand, the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is ended. Specifically, the display of the notification image of a decrease in the number of balls in the hand is ended on the display screen 31a.

[0086] Next, a specific example of control for notifying a decrease in the number of balls remaining will be described. First, an example of control for notifying a player of a decrease in the number of balls held when a game ball is released 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. If the number of balls specified in the received frame control command is equal to or less than a first reference number and the notification permission state is set, the main control board 200 sends a ball reduction notification designation command to the performance control board 300. When the performance control board 300 receives a command to designate a reduction in the number of balls in hand, if the reduction in the number of balls in hand notification is set to enabled, the performance control board 300 will start a reduction in the number of balls in hand notification. As a result, when the number of balls in possession falls below a first reference number as a result of the release of game balls, a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in possession will be initiated only if the notification enable state is set and the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in possession is set to enabled.

[0087] Next, an example of control for notifying a player of a decrease in ball inventory when a ball lending operation is performed will be described. When the frame control board 400 executes a ball lending operation and adds a specified number of loaned balls (in this embodiment, 125 balls) to the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area, it sends a frame control command to the main control board 200 that includes information indicating the number of balls held after the addition and loaned ball information indicating the execution of the ball lending operation. If the number of balls held specified in the received frame control command is equal to or greater than a second reference number and the notification prohibition state is set, the main control board 200 changes the notification prohibition state to a notification permitted state. In addition, if the received frame control command specifies the execution of a ball lending operation, the main control board 200 sends a ball lending generation specification command to the performance control board 300. When the performance control board 300 receives a loan ball generation designation command, if a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in hand is being executed, the board ends the notification of a decrease in the number of balls in hand.

[0088] Next, an example of control for notifying a player of a decrease in the number of balls available when a prize ball is awarded will be described. When a game ball enters any of the winning openings 51 to 55, the main control board 200 transmits a prize ball designation command that designates the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning opening into which the game ball entered, to the frame control board 400. In addition, when the frame control board 400 receives the prize ball designation command, it adds the number of prize balls designated by the prize ball designation command to the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area, and transmits a frame control command including information indicating the number of balls held after the addition to the main control board 200. If the number of balls held specified in the received frame control command is equal to or greater than a second reference number and the notification prohibition state is set, the main control board 200 changes the notification prohibition state to the notification permission state.

[0089] As a result of the above, once a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in hand has been executed, a notification of a decrease in the number of balls in hand will not be executed again, even if the number of balls in hand decreases to or below the first reference number, unless the number of balls in hand becomes equal to or greater than the second reference number.

[0090] (Control of zero ball notification) Next, a method for controlling the zero balls remaining notification will be specifically described. First, the ball count monitoring process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the ball count monitoring process. 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 ball count monitoring process is included in the timer interrupt process. When the ball count monitoring process starts, the process first proceeds to step S3-1. The ROM of the main control board 200 is provided with a ball number storage area capable of storing the number of balls held. Each time the CPU of the main control board 200 receives a frame control command, it updates the number of balls held stored in the ball number storage area to the number of balls held specified by the frame control command (ball number information included in the frame control command). In step S3-1, it is determined whether the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area is "0" or not. If it is determined that the number of balls is "0" (Yes), the process proceeds to step S3-2. If it is determined that the number of balls is not "0" (No), the current ball count monitoring process is terminated.

[0091] In step S3-2, it is determined whether or not the operation (contact) 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 S3-3, and if it is determined that the operation of the launch handle by the player has not been detected (No), it proceeds to step S3-5. At this time, the main control board 200 determines whether or not the launch handle has been operated (contacted) by the player based on the input status of the handle operation signal. In step S3-3, a zero balls in possession notification designation command transmission process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-4. In the zero balls in possession notification designation command transmission process, a zero balls in possession notification command designating the start of a zero balls in possession notification is transmitted to the performance control board 300. In step S3-4, a firing handle non-operation time reset process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3-5. In the firing handle non-operation time reset process, the firing handle non-operation time is reset. Specifically, the main control board 200 is configured to include a firing handle non-operation time timer. The firing handle non-operation time timer measures the duration of a state in which no operation of the firing handle by the player is detected (= the firing handle non-operation time). In the firing handle non-operation time reset process, the value of the firing handle non-operation time timer is reset (the value of the firing handle non-operation time timer is set to 0 [s]). The value of the firing handle non-operation time timer is updated (added) by a process not shown.

[0092] In step S3-5, it is determined whether the non-operation time of the launch handle measured by the non-operation time timer has reached a predetermined time (60 seconds in this embodiment), and if it is determined that the non-operation time of the launch handle has reached the predetermined time (Yes), it proceeds to step S3-6, and if it is determined that the non-operation time of the launch handle has not reached the predetermined time (No), the current ball count monitoring process is terminated. In step S3-6, a command to disable the zero balls notification is sent to the performance control board 300.

[0093] Next, the zero balls notification management process executed by the CPU of the performance control board 300 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the zero balls in hand notification management process. The CPU of the performance control board 300 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The timer interrupt process includes a zero ball notification process. When the zero ball notification process starts, the process first proceeds to step S4-1. In step S4-1, it is determined whether or not a zero balls in hand notification command has been received. If it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-2. If it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification command has not been received (No), the process proceeds to step S4-5. In step S4-2, it is determined whether the zero balls in hand notification is enabled or not, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-3, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is not enabled (the zero balls in hand notification is disabled) (No), the process proceeds to step S4-5. In step S4-3, it is determined whether or not the zero balls in hand notification is being executed, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is not being executed (No), the process proceeds to step S4-4, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is being executed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-5. In step S4-4, a zero balls in hand notification start process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-5. In the zero balls in hand notification start process, a zero balls in hand notification is started. Specifically, a zero balls in hand notification image starts to be displayed on the display screen 31a, and sound generation device 22 starts to output a sound notifying the player that there are no more balls in hand. Here, performance control board 300 is configured to include a zero balls in hand notification timer. The zero balls in hand notification timer measures the duration of the zero balls in hand notification. Then, in the zero balls in hand notification start process, the zero balls in hand notification timer is set to a value of 10 [s], and measurement (countdown) of the duration of the zero balls in hand notification starts. The value of the zero balls in hand notification timer is updated (subtracted) by a process not shown.

[0094] In step S4-5, it is determined whether or not the zero balls in hand notification is being executed, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is being executed (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-6, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand notification is not being executed (No), the process proceeds to step S4-9. In step S4-6, it is determined whether the zero balls in hand alarm timer has timed out (whether the value of the zero balls in hand alarm timer is 0 [s] or less), and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand alarm timer has not timed out (No), it proceeds to step S4-7, and if it is determined that the zero balls in hand alarm timer has timed out (Yes), it proceeds to step S4-8. In step S4-7, it is determined whether or not a loan ball generation designation command has been received, and if it is determined that the loan ball generation designation command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-8, and if it is determined that the loan ball generation designation command has not been received (No), the process proceeds to step S4-9. In step S4-8, a zero balls in hand notification end process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S4-9. In the zero balls in hand notification end process, the zero balls in hand notification is ended. Specifically, the display of the zero balls in hand notification image is ended on the display screen 31a, and the sound generating device 22 ends outputting the sound that notifies the player that there are no more balls in hand. In step S4-9, it is determined whether or not a command to disable the zero balls in hand has been received, and if it is determined that the command to disable the zero balls in hand has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S4-10, and if it is determined that the command to disable the zero balls in hand has not been received (No), the current zero balls in hand notification management process is terminated. In step S4-10, a process for disabling the zero balls in possession notification is executed, and the zero balls in possession notification management process is terminated. In the process for disabling the zero balls in possession notification, the zero balls in possession notification is set to be disabled.

[0095] Next, a specific example of control for the zero balls remaining notification will be described. First, a control example of the notification of zero balls held when game balls are released 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. If the main control board 200 detects that the number of balls held in the received frame control command is "0" and that the launch handle has been operated, it sends a command to notify the performance control board 300 that the number of balls held is zero. When the performance control board 300 receives a command to specify a zero balls in hand notification, if the zero balls in hand notification is set to be enabled and the zero balls in hand notification is not being executed, the performance control board 300 starts a zero balls in hand notification. As a result, when the number of balls held becomes "0" due to the launch of a game ball, the zero balls held notification will be initiated only if operation of the launch handle has been detected and the zero balls held notification is set to enabled.

[0096] Next, an example of control for notifying the player that he has no balls when a ball lending operation is performed will be described. When the frame control board 400 executes a ball lending operation and adds a specified number of loaned balls (in this embodiment, 125 balls) to the number of balls stored in the ball count memory area, it sends a frame control command to the main control board 200 that includes information indicating the number of balls held after the addition and loaned ball information indicating the execution of the ball lending operation. If the received frame control command specifies the execution of a ball lending operation, the main control board 200 sends a ball lending generation specification command to the performance control board 300. When the performance control board 300 receives a loan ball generation designation command, if a zero balls in hand notification is being executed, the board ends the zero balls in hand notification.

[0097] Next, an example of control for notifying the player that he has no balls left when the operation of the launch handle continues to go undetected will be described. The main control board 200 measures the time when the number of balls held is "0". When the time when the number of balls held is "0", the main control board 200 transmits a command to disable the notification of zero balls held to the performance control board 300 when the time when the number of balls held is "0" reaches a predetermined time. When the performance control board 300 receives a command to disable the zero balls in hand notification, it sets the zero balls in hand reduction notification to disabled. As a result, when the number of balls held is "0" and the time during which the launch handle is not operated reaches a specified time, the setting for the notification that the number of balls held is reduced to zero is disabled.

[0098] (Control of ball increase notification) Next, a method for controlling the notification of an increase in balls held will be specifically described. First, the winning ball monitoring process executed by the CPU of the main control board 200 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the winning ball monitoring process. The CPU of the main control board 200 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The winning ball monitoring process is included in the timer interrupt process. When the winning ball monitoring process is started, the process first proceeds to step S5-1. In step S5-1, it is determined whether or not a prize ball has been generated, and if it is determined that a prize ball has been generated (Yes), the process proceeds to step S5-2, and if it is determined that a prize ball has not been generated (No), the current prize ball monitoring process is terminated. At this time, the CPU of the main control board 200 determines that a prize ball has been generated when a game ball enters any of the winning holes 51 to 55. In step S5-2, it is determined whether the number of balls stored in the ball number memory area is within a specific range (specifically, within a range exceeding a first reference number and not exceeding a third reference number), and if it is determined that the number of balls is within the specific range (Yes), it proceeds to step S5-3, and if it is determined that the number of balls is not within the specific range (No), the current prize ball monitoring process is terminated. In step S5-3, a ball increase notification command transmission process is executed, and the current prize ball monitoring process is terminated. In the ball increase notification command transmission process, a ball increase notification command that specifies the start of a ball increase notification is transmitted to the performance control board 300.

[0099] Next, the ball increase notification management process executed by the CPU of the performance control board 300 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the ball increase notification management process. The CPU of the performance control board 300 executes a timer interrupt process at a predetermined cycle based on the generation of a clock pulse by the clock generating circuit. The ball increase notification management process is included in the timer interrupt process. When the ball increase notification management process is started, the process first proceeds to step S6-1. In step S6-1, it is determined whether or not a ball possession increase notification command has been received. If it is determined that a ball possession increase notification command has been received (Yes), the process proceeds to step S6-2. If it is determined that a ball possession increase notification command has not been received (No), the current ball possession increase notification management process is terminated. In step S6-2, it is determined whether the increase in balls in possession notification is set to enabled, and if it is determined that the increase in balls in possession notification is set to enabled (Yes), the process proceeds to step S6-3, and if it is determined that the increase in balls in possession notification is not set to enabled (the increase in balls in possession notification is set to disabled) (No), the current increase in balls in possession notification management process is terminated. In step S6-3, the balls in possession increase notification start process is executed, and the current balls in possession increase notification management process is terminated. In the balls in possession increase notification start process, the balls in possession increase notification is started. Specifically, sound generation device 22 starts to output a sound notifying that the number of balls in possession has increased. Here, the balls in possession increase notification ends when the output of the sound notifying that the number of balls in possession has increased is completed.

[0100] Next, a specific example of control for the notification of an increase in the number of balls held will be described. When the main control board 200 detects the entry of a game ball into any of the winning ports 51-55, if the number of balls held (the number of balls held before the prize balls generated by the ball entry are added) is within a specific range (specifically, within a range exceeding a first reference number and not exceeding a third reference number), the main control board 200 sends a command to notify the performance control board 300 of an increase in balls held. When the performance control board 300 receives a command to specify an increase in balls in possession, if the increase in balls in possession notification is set to enabled, it will start an increase in balls in possession notification. As a result, if a prize ball is generated when the number of balls possessed (the number of balls possessed before the prize ball generated by the ball in question is added) is within a specific range (specifically, within a range exceeding a first reference number and not exceeding a third reference number), a notification of an increase in the number of balls possessed will be initiated only if the notification of an increase in the number of balls possessed is set to enabled.

[0101] (Launch position assist function) Next, the launch position assist function installed in the pachinko machine 1 will be described. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is insufficient. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is excessive. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a launch position assist image displayed when the amount of rotation of the launch handle is appropriate. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a launch position assist function. The "launch position assist function" is a function that assists the player in adjusting the position from which the game ball is launched to an appropriate position (in this embodiment, the left game area RL) by rotating the launch handle. In other words, the launch position assist function is a function that assists the player in adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle to an appropriate amount of operation (in this embodiment, the amount of operation that launches the game ball to the left game area RL). That is, in the past, when a player starts playing, it was difficult to adjust the rotation operation amount of the launch handle for the first one or two balls to be launched, and even though the player intended to launch a game ball to the left game area RL, the strength of the launched game ball was weak and it became a foul ball, or the strength of the launched game ball was strong and it was launched to the right game area RR, making it difficult to adjust the rotation operation amount of the launch handle to an appropriate operation amount. In this case, if foul balls are launched continuously, ball collisions may occur in the launch passage that guides the launched game balls to the game area 30, causing unnecessary operation. Also, if a game ball is launched to the right game area RR, the launched game ball will be wasted, which is disadvantageous to the player. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the launch position assist function assists in adjusting the rotational operation amount of the launch handle to an appropriate operation amount (in this embodiment, the operation amount that launches the game ball into the left game area RL), thereby preventing the game ball launched when the player starts playing from becoming a foul ball or from being launched into the right game area RR.

[0102] In this embodiment, the various notifications that can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen include a launch position assist function. That is, the launch position assist function can be enabled or disabled on the menu screen. When the launch position assist function is enabled, an operation is executed to assist in adjusting the position from which the game ball is launched to an appropriate position (the left game area RL in this embodiment) by rotating the launch handle. On the other hand, when the launch position assist function is disabled, an operation is not executed to assist in adjusting the position from which the game ball is launched to an appropriate position (the left game area RL in this embodiment) by rotating the launch handle. In this way, in this embodiment, the player can select and set the launch position assist function to be enabled or disabled as desired. This allows experienced players to disable the launch position assist function and thus suppress unnecessary assist operations. Here, in this embodiment, the launch position assist function is disabled when the power is turned on to the pachinko machine 1. Also, while the playable state is being set, it is possible to display the menu screen by pressing the menu button at any time. This makes it possible to set the launch position assist function to be enabled at any time while the playable state is being set. Furthermore, when the launch position assist function is set to be enabled, it is possible to set the launch position assist function to be disabled by pressing the menu button.

[0103] The above-mentioned firing stop state is set while the firing position assist function is enabled. As a result, during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, even if a handle volume signal is input from the launch volume 410 (even if the launch handle is rotated), the launching operation of the game ball is not performed by the launch device 560. In this embodiment, the rectifier solenoid 551 is controlled to be OFF (not driven) during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, thereby forming a launch stop state.

[0104] Also, while the launch position assist function is enabled, the launch position assist image is displayed on the display screen 31a. However, while the launch position assist function is disabled, the launch position assist image is not displayed. The "launch position assist image" is an image that assists in adjusting the rotational operation amount of the launch handle to an appropriate operation amount (in this embodiment, an operation amount that launches the game ball into the left game area RL). In this embodiment, during the period in which the launch position assist function is enabled, it is monitored whether the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is within an appropriate range (in this embodiment, within the range of operation amounts at which the game ball is launched into the left side game area RL). When the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is outside the appropriate range, the launch position assist image notifies the user that the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is outside the appropriate range. In this case, when the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is too small for the appropriate range (less than the lower limit of the appropriate range), the launch position assist image notifies the user that the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is insufficient (the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle needs to be increased). On the other hand, when the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is too large for the appropriate range (more than the upper limit of the appropriate range), the launch position assist image notifies the user that the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle is too large (the amount of rotational operation of the launch handle needs to be reduced). On the other hand, when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is within the appropriate range, the firing position assist image notifies the user that the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is within the appropriate range.

[0105] Specifically, during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, the main control board 200 monitors the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410. In particular, it is monitored whether the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 is within an appropriate range. Here, the "appropriate range" is the range of voltage values ​​at which the game ball is launched to the left game area RL. Also, the performance control board 300 executes the display of the launch position assist image during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled. At this time, as shown in Fig. 15 to Fig. 17, the launch position assist image displays information notifying that the launch position assist function is enabled (for example, the text "launch position assist mode in progress"), information evaluating the current launch strength of the game ball (evaluating whether it is too little, too much, or appropriate with respect to the appropriate launch strength), information evaluating the current rotation operation amount of the launch handle (evaluating whether it is too little, too much, or appropriate with respect to the appropriate rotation operation amount), and information notifying how to end the launch position assist function (how to disable it) (for example, the text "If you want to end the mode, press the menu").

[0106] At this time, during the period when the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 is too low for the appropriate range (the period when the voltage value is lower than the lower limit of the appropriate range), the launch position assist image notifies that the rotation operation amount of the launch handle is insufficient. That is, as shown in FIG. 15, in the launch position assist image, as information for evaluating the launch strength of the current game ball, information indicating that the launch strength of the current game ball is weak (insufficient) for the appropriate launch strength (for example, the text "launch position: weak") is displayed, and as information for evaluating the rotation operation amount of the current launch handle, information indicating that the rotation operation amount of the current launch handle is insufficient (insufficient) for the appropriate rotation operation amount (for example, the text "Please turn the handle to the right") is displayed. In the following description, the information indicating that the launch strength of the current game ball is weak (insufficient) for the appropriate launch strength and the information indicating that the rotation operation amount of the current launch handle is insufficient (insufficient) for the appropriate rotation operation amount are collectively referred to as "insufficient information". On the other hand, during a period in which the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 is excessive with respect to the appropriate range (a period in which the voltage value is higher than the upper limit of the appropriate range), the launch position assist image notifies that the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is too large. That is, as shown in FIG. 16, in the launch position assist image, as information for evaluating the launch strength of the current game ball, information indicating that the launch strength of the current game ball is strong (excessive) with respect to the appropriate launch strength (for example, the text "launch position: strong") is displayed, and as information for evaluating the rotational operation amount of the current launch handle, information indicating that the rotational operation amount of the current launch handle is too large (excessive) with respect to the appropriate rotational operation amount (for example, the text "please return the handle to the left") is displayed. In the following description, the information indicating that the launch strength of the current game ball is strong (excessive) with respect to the appropriate launch strength and the information indicating that the rotational operation amount of the current launch handle is too large (excessive) with respect to the appropriate rotational operation amount are collectively referred to as "excessive information". On the other hand, during a period in which the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 is within the appropriate range, the launch position assist image notifies the user that the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is appropriate. That is, as shown in FIG. 17, the launch position assist image displays information indicating that the current launch strength of the game ball is within the appropriate range of launch strength (for example, the text "launch position: appropriate") as information for evaluating the current launch strength of the game ball, and displays information indicating that the current rotational operation amount of the launch handle is within the appropriate range of rotational operation amount (for example, the text "just right position" as information for evaluating the current rotational operation amount of the launch handle). In the following description, the information indicating that the current launch strength of the game ball is within the appropriate range of launch strength and the information indicating that the current rotational operation amount of the launch handle is within the appropriate range of rotational operation amount are collectively referred to as "appropriate information".

[0107] In this embodiment, during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, the launch handle is configured to vibrate for a predetermined time (e.g., 1 s) each time the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 changes from a state outside the appropriate range to a state within the appropriate range. This makes it possible to more reliably notify the player that the amount of rotation of the firing handle has fallen within an appropriate range.

[0108] For example, if the launch position assist function is enabled when a player starts playing, a launch stop state is set, and even if the launch handle is rotated, the launching operation of the launching device 560 will not be performed to launch the game ball, and a launch position assist image will begin to be displayed on the display screen 31a. At this time, when the player is not rotating the launch handle (when the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 is too low compared to the appropriate range), deficiency information is displayed in the launch position assist image, prompting the player to increase the amount of rotation of the launch handle. Thereafter, as the player gradually increases the amount of rotation of the launch handle, when the amount of rotation of the launch handle enters a range of appropriate operation amounts (in this embodiment, a range of operation amounts at which the game ball is launched into the left game area RL) (when the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 enters the appropriate range), the launch handle vibrates and the display of the deficiency information in the launch position assist image is terminated (erased) and the display of appropriate information begins. Thereafter, when the player further increases the amount of rotation of the launch handle, the amount of rotation of the launch handle goes outside (becomes excessive) the appropriate range of operation amounts (in this embodiment, the range of operation amounts at which the game ball is launched into the left side game area RL) (as the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 goes outside (becomes excessive) the appropriate range), and the display of the appropriate information in the launch position assist image is terminated (erased) and the display of excessive information begins, prompting the player to reduce the amount of rotation of the launch handle. Thereafter, as the player gradually reduces the amount of rotation of the launch handle, when the amount of rotation of the launch handle enters a range of appropriate amounts of operation (in this embodiment, a range of amounts of operation at which the game ball is launched into the left game area RL) (when the voltage value of the handle volume signal input from the launch volume 410 enters the appropriate range), the launch handle vibrates and the display of excessive information in the launch position assist image is terminated (erased), and the display of appropriate information begins. Then, by pressing the menu button while maintaining the amount of rotation of the launch handle when appropriate information is displayed in the launch position assist image, the launch position assist function is disabled, the launch stop state is released, and the launch of the game ball is initiated with a strength corresponding to that amount of rotation (the amount of operation at which the game ball is launched into the left side game area RL). As a result, during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, it is possible to adjust the amount of rotation of the launch handle based on the display of the launch position assist screen, without actually launching the game ball, so that it is within an appropriate range of operation amounts (within the range of operation amounts that launches the game ball into the left game area RL). This allows the first ball to be launched into the left game area RL when the player starts playing. This prevents the first ball from being a foul ball, and prevents malfunctions. It also prevents the first ball from being launched into the right game area RR, and prevents balls from being wasted.

[0109] (Function of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a launch volume 410 capable of changing the voltage value according to the amount of operation of the launch handle, and a frame control board 400 capable of controlling the strength of launching game balls according to the voltage value. Then, based on the notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) executed in response to the voltage value being outside the appropriate range, it is possible to adjust the amount of operation of the launch handle to an appropriate amount of operation. That is, in the pachinko machine 1, when the voltage value of the firing volume signal output from the firing volume 410 is outside the appropriate range, a notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) is executed. This makes it possible to adjust the operation amount of the firing handle to an appropriate operation amount based on the notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information). Therefore, it becomes possible to easily adjust the operation amount of the firing handle to an appropriate operation amount when the player starts playing. In addition, in the pachinko machine 1, when the voltage value is outside the appropriate range, a notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) is executed, and when the voltage value is within the appropriate range, the notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) can be stopped. This makes it possible to further easily adjust the operation amount of the launch handle to an appropriate operation amount based on whether or not a notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) is executed. Furthermore, in the pachinko machine 1, it is possible to switch whether or not to enable the launch position assist function that enables notification (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information). This makes it possible for experienced players to suppress the annoyance of notifications by disabling the launch position assist function.

[0110] (Modification) Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, various modifications can be made to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, the launch stop state is set during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled. As a result, during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled, even if a handle volume signal is input from the launch volume 410 (even if the launch handle is rotated), the launching operation of the launch device 560 is not performed. However, the configuration may be such that the launch stop state is not set during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled. This allows the launch device 560 to execute the launching operation of the game ball in response to the input of the handle volume signal from the launch volume 410 (in response to the rotation operation of the launch handle) even during the period when the launch position assist function is enabled. Furthermore, if the launch position assist function is enabled during the execution of the notification display (variable display / stop display) of the special pattern, the display of the launch position assist image on the display screen 31a may be made smaller so as not to interfere with the variable performance / stop performance (variable display / stop display of the performance pattern), or, instead of displaying the launch position assist image, a notification may be given as to whether or not the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is within an appropriate range (in this embodiment, within the range of the operation amount at which the game ball is launched into the left side game area RL) based on changing the state of the launch handle (for example, changing the presence or absence of vibration, changing the presence or absence of light emission, changing the presence or absence of sound output, changing the presence or absence of wind output, etc.). In this case, whether the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is within an appropriate range (in this embodiment, within the range of the operation amount at which the game ball is launched into the left game area RL) or the rotational operation amount of the launch handle is not within an appropriate range (in this embodiment, within the range of the operation amount at which the game ball is launched into the left game area RL), priority may be given to the display (display of an image on the display screen 31a) resulting from the performance executed as the game progresses and the change in the state of the launch handle in relation to the notification of each state, and notification of each state may not be executed. Alternatively, the timing of notification of each state may be shifted.

[0111] In addition, in the above embodiment, when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is outside the appropriate range (the voltage value is outside the appropriate range), an alarm (announcement of insufficient information / announcement of excessive information) is executed, and when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is within the appropriate range (the voltage value is within the appropriate range), an alarm (announcement of appropriate information) is executed. However, it is also possible to configure the device to issue an alert (notification of insufficient information / notification of excessive information) only when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is outside the appropriate range (voltage value is outside the appropriate range), and not issue an alert (notification of appropriate information) when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is within the appropriate range (voltage value is within the appropriate range). Alternatively, the configuration may be such that no notification (report of insufficient information / report of excessive information) is issued when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is outside the appropriate range (voltage value is outside the appropriate range), and a notification (report of appropriate information) is issued only when the rotational operation amount of the firing handle is within the appropriate range (voltage value is within the appropriate range). Alternatively, the configuration may be such that, depending on the internal state in which the gaming machine is currently in, no notification (notification of insufficient information, notification of excessive information, notification of appropriate information) is executed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Pachinko Machines 200 Main control board 300 Production control board 400 Frame Control Board 410 Launch Volume

Claims

1. A firing volume capable of changing a voltage value according to an amount of operation of an operating means; A control means capable of controlling the intensity of launching the game ball according to the voltage value, A gaming machine characterized in that the amount of operation of the operating means is adjustable to an appropriate amount based on a notification that is issued when the voltage value is outside the appropriate range.

2. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification is executed when the voltage value is outside an appropriate range, and the notification is stopped when the voltage value is within the appropriate range.

3. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein it is possible to switch whether or not a predetermined mode in which the notification can be executed is enabled.

Images