Game machine

Abstract

To improve operation property of an operation part.SOLUTION: A Pachinko machine 1 has: a lower decorative unit 40 provided on a front door unit 4; a counting operation unit 41 and a setting button unit 42 provided on a top surface of the lower decorative unit 40; a counting button 41b provided on the top surface of the counting operation unit 41; and a light amount adjusting button 42a included in the setting button unit 42. The top surface of the counting operation unit 41 is inclined to a front surface side. In front view of the counting button 41b on the lower decorative unit 40, there is provided a wall part 44 standing upward. In addition, heights of operation surfaces of the counting button 41b and the light amount adjusting button 42a are different. A distance of the front door unit 4 to an opening / closing axis, is larger in the counting button 41b than in the light amount adjusting button 42a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine having an operation unit that can be operated by a player. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a gaming machine equipped with an operation unit that can be operated by a player has been known (see Patent Document 1). In this gaming machine, a counting switch (operation unit) is arranged on the upper left side of the operation unit of the managed gaming machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

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

[0004] However, in conventional gaming machines, there is a risk that the operability of the operating section may be reduced. An object of the present invention is to improve the operability of the operating unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the first invention comprises a bulge provided on a front door unit, a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided on the upper surface of the bulge, a first operation section provided on the upper surface of the first operation unit, and a processing means capable of executing a first process and a second process as processes related to counting gaming media depending on the operation time of the first operation section, wherein the upper surface of the first operation unit is inclined toward the front side, the second operation unit comprises a plurality of operation sections capable of setting different items from each other, the plurality of operation sections includes a second operation section, the heights of the operation surfaces of the first operation section and the second operation section are different, and the distance to the opening and closing axis of the front door unit is farther for the first operation unit than for the second operation unit. In the gaming machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the operability of the operating section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the operability of the operation unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pachinko machine 1. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a pachinko machine 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the front of the game board, and is a schematic diagram showing parts particularly necessary for explanation. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front view of the circulation unit 500. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a state in which some parts are removed from the circulation unit 500 shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of a pachinko machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine (a so-called "managed gaming machine") that can proceed with a game by using a predetermined number of gaming balls (45 balls in this embodiment) that are circulated within the gaming machine, without directly lending gaming balls or paying out prize balls to the player (i.e., without the player directly touching the gaming balls). In the pachinko machine 1, the number of gaming balls that the player owns (hereinafter referred to as "possessed ball count") is managed as numerical data.

[0009] (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 for the insertion of bills, and the card insertion slot allows for the insertion of a storage medium (card) that stores value information corresponding to the number of game balls.The display device can display the value information 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 game balls to the number of balls it manages. This allows the player to fire game balls equal to the number of balls it manages in its possession in the pachinko machine 1. In addition, when the number of balls managed by the pachinko machine 1 is 1 [ball] or more and a counting operation described below is executed, the pachinko machine 1 transmits a counting command described below to the dedicated unit UN in order to convert the number of balls held into value information and store it in a storage medium.

[0010] (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. Note that FIG. 1 shows the front door unit 4 in an open state. Also, in FIGS. 1 to 4, the upper decorative unit included in the front door unit 4 is not shown. 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).

[0011] (Outer frame unit 2) The outer frame unit 2, inner frame unit 3, and 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. In addition, 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 the island equipment of the game center.

[0012] (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.

[0013] (Front door unit 4) The front door unit 4 is formed in the shape of a rectangular door. 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 to surround the transparent plate 4a, and a launch handle unit 6 disposed on the right side 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 arranged above the transparent plate 4a. The upper decorative unit has a bulging portion that bulges out toward the front side. A sound generating device (speaker) 22 is arranged inside the upper decorative unit. In this embodiment, a first sound generating device 22 is arranged at the left corner of the upper decorative unit, and a second sound generating device 22 is arranged at the right corner of the upper decorative unit. A frame lamp 20 (see Figure 8) is arranged in the upper decorative unit. The frame lamp 20 is composed of multiple light-emitting elements (LEDs) that are driven by dynamic lighting control. The lower decorative unit 40 is disposed below the transparent plate 4a. The lower decorative unit 40 has a bulging portion 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.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the lower decorative unit 40 includes a counting operation unit 41, a setting button unit 42, and a performance button unit 43. Counting operation unit 41 includes ball count display section 41a and counting button 41b. Specifically, counting operation unit 41 is formed in a box shape, and has ball count display section 41a and counting button 41b on its top surface (hereinafter referred to as the "display surface"). Ball count display unit 41a is composed of a predetermined number (six in this embodiment) of 7-segment displays (light-emitting means) with decimal points arranged horizontally, and is capable of displaying the number of balls managed by frame control board 400. Ball count display unit 41a is configured on the display surface of counting operation unit 41. The display of ball count display unit 41a is controlled by frame control board 400. The counting button 41b can be pressed by the player. A counting detection switch 23 (see Figure 8) that detects the pressing of the counting button 41b is arranged inside the counting operation unit 41. The counting detection switch 23 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 (see Figure 8) each time the counting button 41b is pressed. In this embodiment, the counting button 41b is formed in a cylindrical shape. The top 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.

[0015] 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 back 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 back side is higher. As a result, when pressing the counting button 41b, the direction in which the counting button 41b is pressed is not vertical, but in 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 board lamp 21 described below is less likely to be reflected on the ball count display section 41a, making it possible to prevent a situation in which the visibility of the ball count displayed on the ball count display section 41a is reduced. Furthermore, compared to when the display surface (held ball count display section 41a) of the counting operation unit 41 is positioned horizontally, the number of held balls (light emission) displayed on the held ball count display section 41a is less likely to be reflected on the transparent plate 4a, and the light from the held ball count display section 41a is reflected on the transparent plate 4a and can be seen, which makes it possible to prevent the player's view of the game balls flowing down the game area 30 of the game board 11 from being obstructed or the light emission effect by the board lamp 21 from being obstructed, thereby preventing a decrease in interest in the game.

[0016] 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., on the opposite side of the launch handle unit 6). This allows the player to operate the launch handle unit 6 (launch handle) with the right hand while operating the counting button 41b with the left hand, thereby improving operability when performing counting operations while progressing through the game. In particular, in this embodiment, when viewed from the front side, the dedicated unit UN is arranged on the left side of the pachinko machine 1. Therefore, by arranging 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 arranged 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 will be described later, board lamps 21 consisting of a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged on the gaming board 11 (play area 30). In this case, when viewed from the front side, if the front of the gaming board 11 (play area 30) is divided into two halves by a vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction, the number of light-emitting elements (light-emitting elements constituting the board lamps 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 lamps 21) arranged in the area to the right of the vertical line passing through the center in the left-right direction. In particular, when viewed from the front side, 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 fewer 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 with fewer light-emitting elements constituting the board lamp 21). This prevents the light emitted from the board lamp 21 from being reflected in the ball count display section 41a, and makes it possible to prevent a situation in which the visibility of the ball count displayed in the ball count display section 41a is reduced.

[0017] A wall 44 is provided at the upper front side of the lower decorative unit 40. The wall 44 is formed so as to extend (stand up) at an angle upward from the upper front side of the lower decorative unit 40 towards the rear side. 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 rear 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 positioned so that a player can press the counting button 41b while placing their hand on the wall portion 44 formed on the front side of the lower decorative unit 40 (with part of their palm pressed against the wall portion 44). Specifically, the player can grasp part of the lower decorative unit 40 by placing the fingers of their left hand on the inclined surface 44a or vertical surface of the wall portion 44, and can place their left hand firmly while resting the weight of their left hand on the lower decorative unit 40. The counting operation unit 41 is positioned so that a player can press the counting button 41b simply by moving their fingers (particularly the index finger) while placing the fingers on the wall portion 44. In this case, the inclined surface 44a allows the fingertips to be positioned so that they extend toward the counting button 41b, while the vertical surface increases the gripping force of the fingertips on the wall portion 44, making it possible to prevent hand shake. As a result, the operability of the counting button 41b can be improved. In this embodiment, the top of the wall 44 is positioned 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, the top of the wall 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 place the fingers of his or her left hand on the wall 44.

[0018] Here, when the player places the fingers of his / her left hand on the wall portion 44, the palm of his / her 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 in possession 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 counting button 41 is pressed for a duration shorter than a reference time), the first predetermined number (1 [ball] in this embodiment) is subtracted from the number of balls in possession, 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 in possession 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 counting button 41 is pressed for a duration longer than a reference time), the second predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls in possession, and a counting command specifying the second predetermined number is sent from the frame control board 400 to the dedicated unit UN. Therefore, it is also possible to configure the game so that a deep bass sound (inaudible range) is output from the third sound generating device 22 each time the counting button 41b is pressed and held, and that a deep bass sound (inaudible range) is not output from the third sound generating device 22 each time the counting button 41b is pressed and held. This allows the player to feel a slight vibration in his or her left hand each time the second predetermined number of balls is sent from the frame control board 400 to the dedicated unit UN, thereby notifying the player that the second predetermined number of balls has been sent. Furthermore, if the counting button 41b is operated continuously for four seconds or more, even if the player releases his or her finger from the counting button 41b, the counting button 41b is considered to have been pressed and held for a period thereafter, and a "total count" process is performed in which all of the balls are counted by the second predetermined number. It is preferable that the "total count" process be configured so that the player can cancel it by operating the count button 41b when there are balls remaining, allowing the player to continue using some of the balls they have in their game.

[0019] 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 intensity 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 operation parts (a first operation part and a second operation part) that can be pressed by the player. Inside the setting button unit 42, a light intensity adjustment switch 24 (see Figure 8) that detects the pressing of each operation part is arranged. The light intensity adjustment switch 24 outputs a first detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the first operation part is pressed, and outputs a second detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the second operation 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. A volume adjustment switch 25 (see FIG. 8) that detects the pressing of each operation part is arranged inside the setting button unit 42. The volume adjustment switch 25 outputs a third detection signal to the performance control board 300 each time the third operation part is pressed, and outputs a fourth detection signal to the performance control board 300 each 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 is configured to include four operation units (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) that detects the pressing of each operation unit is arranged. 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 to set various effects on the menu screen.

[0020] The effect button unit 43 is arranged on the upper surface of the lower decorative unit 40. The effect button unit 43 is configured to include an 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 Figure 8) is arranged which detects the pressing of the effect button 5b. The effect button switch 27 outputs a predetermined detection signal to the effect control board 300 (see Figure 8) each time the effect button 5b is pressed. The effect button 5b is used in button effects (effects which suggest the results of a special pattern lottery, which will be described later) which are executed during play.

[0021] 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 "open side") of the front door unit 4 relative to the inner frame unit 3 and the outer frame unit 2, as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) and the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) are arranged on the open side in the left-right direction (the 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, and cross key button 42c) are arranged on the open side in the left-right direction (the right side in this embodiment) relative to the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b). Here, during development and shipment of 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 effect button unit 43 overlaps 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 effect 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 counting button 41b (at least a part of the counting button 41b) is not hidden by the setting button unit 42 and the effect button unit 43.

[0022] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, the height of the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) (the height of the top of effect button 5b) is higher than the height of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) (the height of the top of counting button 41b). Therefore, the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) is positioned so that the position of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) is shifted toward the front relative to the position of the operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) in the front-to-back direction. In other words, the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) is positioned so that the rear end of the effect button unit 43 is positioned closer to the front than the front end of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). Furthermore, the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is arranged so that the position of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is shifted downward relative to the position of the operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). In other words, the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is arranged so that the height (height of the top of the light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is lower than the height of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b).

[0023] In particular, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, when the pachinko machine 1 is viewed from above, among the imaginary lines extending in the left-right direction, if the imaginary 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 imaginary line L1, and the imaginary 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 imaginary line L2, the first imaginary line L1 and the second imaginary line L2 are configured so as not to overlap with the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b). This makes it 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). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first virtual line L1 and the second virtual line L2 are configured to overlap the setting button unit 42 (light intensity 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 and operate the counting button 41b, light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c simply by moving your 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.

[0024] 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 the player. A firing volume 410 (see FIG. 8) that detects the angle at which the firing handle is rotated is located inside the firing handle unit 6. The firing volume 410 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected angle to the frame control board 400 (see FIG. 8). The touch sensor 411 detects the player's contact (grasping) of the firing handle based on a change in capacitance. When the touch sensor 411 detects the player's contact with the firing handle, it outputs a touch signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the touch signal to a high level). On the other hand, when the touch sensor 411 does not detect the player's contact with the firing handle, it stops outputting the touch signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the touch signal to a low level). The firing stop button can be pressed by the player. A firing stop switch 412 (see Figure 8) that detects pressing of the firing stop button is arranged inside the firing handle unit 6. When pressing of the firing stop button is detected, the firing stop switch 412 outputs a firing stop signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the firing stop signal to high level). On the other hand, when pressing of the firing stop button is not detected, the firing stop switch 412 stops outputting the firing stop signal to the frame control board 400 (sets the firing stop signal to low level).

[0025] (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 diagram that shows in schematic form 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. As a result, the game board unit 10 is disposed on the back side of the front door unit 4. The player can then view the game board 11 (play area 30) described below through the transparent plate 4a. In this embodiment, the game area 30 described below is configured between the back 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 effect devices attached to the game board 11 (image display device 31, board lamps 21, etc.).

[0026] 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 the launch handle and flow down. In this embodiment, on the front (board surface) of the gaming board 11, a left gaming area RL formed on the left side of the image display device 31 (display screen 31a) and a right gaming area RR formed on the right side of the image display device 31 are formed as gaming areas 30. The player can then launch (make the gaming ball flow into) the intended gaming area RL or RR by adjusting the amount of rotation of the launch handle. Specifically, on the front of the game board 11, there is a launch passage r1 through which the game balls launched in response to the rotation of the launch handle pass, and a guide passage r2 that guides the launched game balls to the right-side game area RR. The game ball launched in response to the rotation of the launch handle passes through the launch passage r1 and flows into the game area. At this time, if the momentum of the launched game 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 launched game 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.

[0027] In the left game area RL, multiple paths are formed as paths (passages) for game balls to flow down, and the player can launch (make the game ball flow) into the intended path by adjusting the rotation amount of the launch handle. The left game area RL is provided with a first start opening 51, an upper left other winning opening 55a, a middle left other winning opening 55b, and a lower left other winning opening 55c. The first starting opening 51 is formed in a pocket shape. The first starting opening 51 opens upward and is always capable of receiving game balls. The first starting opening 51 is capable of receiving game balls 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 the detection of a game ball entering the first start port 51 (entry of a game ball into the first start port 51). In response to the input of the detection signal from the special symbol 1 start port switch 101, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery. 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 is always capable of receiving game balls. Each of the other winning openings 55a to 55c is capable of receiving game balls that flow down the left game area RL. A left prize opening switch 106 (see FIG. 8) is disposed on the back side of the gaming board 11. The left prize opening switch 106 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to detection of a gaming ball entering the upper left other prize opening 55a (entry of a gaming ball into the upper left other prize opening 55a), a gaming ball entering the center left other prize opening 55b (entry of a gaming ball into the center left other prize opening 55b), and a gaming ball entering the lower left other prize opening 55c (entry of a gaming ball into the lower left other prize opening 55c). In response to the detection signal input from the left prize opening 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.

[0028] The gaming 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 located below (downstream of) the upper attacker unit 70. On the gaming board 11, the upper attacker unit 70 and the lower attacker unit 80 form a right-side gaming area RR. In this case, the upper attacker unit 70 forms the upstream side of the right-side gaming area RR, and the lower attacker unit 80 forms the downstream side of the right-side gaming area RR. The upper attacker unit 70 is configured to include a start gate 41 and a second large winning opening 54. The lower attacker unit 80 is configured to include a first large winning opening 53, a second start opening 52, and an operating opening 56.

[0029] A start gate 41 is located at the most upstream of the right-side area RR. The start gate 41 is formed so that game balls can always pass through. The start gate 41 allows game balls flowing down the right-side game area RR to pass through. 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 the detection of a gaming ball passing through the start gate 41 (passage of the gaming ball through the start gate 41). The main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery in response to the input of the detection signal from the first gate switch 104a.

[0030] A second large prize opening 54 is disposed in the right area RR downstream of the start gate 41. The second large prize opening 54 is capable of receiving a gaming ball flowing down the right gaming area RR. The second large prize opening 54 is open 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 game balls 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 game balls 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 the 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 the input of the detection signal from the second count switch 103b.

[0031] The first large prize opening 53 is disposed downstream of the second large prize opening 54 in the right area RR. The first large prize opening 53 is capable of receiving a gaming ball flowing down the right 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 game balls cannot enter the first large prize opening 53, but when a small win game state occurs, the first special electric device 53a is opened and 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 the 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 the 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 game balls that enter 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 the detection of a gaming ball passing through the V-area (passage of the gaming ball through the V-area). The main control board 200 generates a jackpot gaming 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 gaming ball passing through the discharge area (passage of a gaming ball through the discharge area). The main control board 200 executes a determination 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 sorting means 53b can be switched between a V-passing state in which gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 can be sorted into the V-area (first branch passage Ra, described later), and a non-V-passing state in which gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 can be sorted into the discharge area (second branch passage Rb, described later). That is, when the sorting means 53b is switched to the V-passing state, all gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 are sorted into the V-area (first branch passage Ra). On the other hand, when the sorting means 53b is switched to the non-V-passing state, all gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 53 are sorted into the discharge area (second branch passage Rb) (gaming 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) between 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).

[0032] A second start opening 52 is provided in the right area RR downstream of the first big winning opening 53. The second start opening 52 allows game balls flowing down the right game area RR to enter. The second starting hole 52 opens to 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 with the normal electric device 52a, and it is not possible for a game ball to enter, but if the normal symbol lottery is won, the normal electric device 52a is opened, and it is possible for a game ball to enter. A special symbol 2 start port switch 102 (see FIG. 8) is disposed within 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 the detection of a game ball entering 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 the input of the detection signal from the special symbol 2 start port switch 102.

[0033] An actuation port 56 is provided downstream of the second starting port 52 in the right area RR. The actuation port 56 allows game balls flowing down the right game area RR to enter. The operating opening 56 is an entrance opening that opens upward, and game balls can be inserted 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 the 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 the input of the detection signal from the second actuation port switch 104b.

[0034] An outlet 57 is provided to the right of the operating port 56 in the right area RR. The outlet 57 allows game balls flowing down the right game area RR to enter. The outlet 57 opens to the right side, allowing game balls to enter at any time. In addition, at the most downstream position in the gaming area 30, an outlet 58 is provided for discharging gaming balls that have not entered any of the winning holes 51 to 56 (have won a prize). Here, the inner frame unit 3 includes an out passage (not shown) through which game balls discharged from the play area 30 pass. Specifically, the out passage is attached to the back side of the inner frame of the inner frame unit 3. The pachinko machine 1 is configured so that all game balls shot into the play area 30 (all game balls discharged from the play area 30) pass through the out passage. That is, game balls shot into the play area 30 are discharged from the play 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 that enter the winning holes 51 to 56 are detected by the switches 101, 102, 103a, 103b, 104b, 105a, 105b, and 106 disposed in the winning holes, and then guided to the outlet passage. In addition, the game balls that are discharged from the outlets 57 and 58 are also guided to the outlet 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 the 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 to 56.

[0035] 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 that can display 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 the first performance pattern z1 (not shown) is displayed, and one second performance pattern display area a4 (not shown) in which the second performance pattern z2 (not shown) is displayed. The first effect symbol z1 is composed of identification information (symbols) such as numbers, letters, symbols, characters, etc. In each of the first effect symbol display areas a1 to a3, it is possible to display the first effect symbol z1 in a variable and stationary manner. The second effect symbol z2 is composed of color bars. In the second effect symbol display area a4, it is possible to display the second effect symbol z2 in a variable and stationary manner. The variable 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 first performance pattern display area 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). 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 displayed in a stopped state in the three first performance pattern display areas a1 to a3 and the second performance pattern z2 displayed in a stopped state in the second performance pattern display area a4. Furthermore, the display screen 31a can be configured with reserved symbol display areas b1 and 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.

[0036] A main display 60 is disposed on the gaming 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 about 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 normal chart display device, and a status display device. Specifically, the main display 60 is configured to include 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.

[0037] The special chart 1 display device is capable of displaying the variation and stopping of the first special pattern, which consists of numbers, patterns, etc. Then, 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, which consists of numbers, symbols, etc. The special symbol 2 display device then displays the result of the second special symbol lottery based on 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 and z2 in the performance pattern display areas a1 to a4 are associated with the time when the variable display starts, the time when the stopped display starts, and the lottery result indicated by the stopped displayed pattern. Then, when the first special pattern (stop 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 (stop 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.

[0038] The normal symbol display device is capable of displaying the fluctuations and stopping of normal symbols consisting of numbers, symbols, etc. The normal symbol display device then displays the results of the normal symbol lottery 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, which is a game state advantageous to the player, is created. The status display device displays the number of times the display of the lottery results for the first special pattern lottery is pending (number of special pattern 1 pending), the number of times the display of the lottery results for the second special pattern lottery is pending (number of special pattern 2 pending), the number of times the display of the lottery results for the regular pattern lottery is pending (number of regular pattern pending), instructions for shooting the game ball into the right-side game area RR, etc.

[0039] The pachinko machine 1 is also provided with detection sensors that detect 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 vibrations 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 detecting vibrations of the game board 11.

[0040] The radio wave detection sensors 114 detect radio waves generated around the gaming board 11. In this embodiment, two radio wave detection sensors 114 are arranged on the gaming board 11. Each radio wave detection sensor 114 transmits a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to the detection of a radio wave. The magnetic detection sensor 115 detects magnetism generated around the gaming board 11. In this embodiment, the magnetic detection sensor 115 is disposed on the gaming board 11. Then, the magnetic detection sensor 115 transmits a detection signal to the main control board 200 in response to the detection of magnetism.

[0041] (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 diagram 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. In this case, the circulation unit 500 is attached to the lower side of the game board unit 10. As a result, the circulation unit 500 is positioned on the back 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 rectifier 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, game balls shot into the game area 30 are discharged from the game area 30 and flow into the out passage by entering any of the winning holes 51 to 56 or by passing through the out holes 57 and 58. 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 503. Furthermore, among the gaming balls launched by the launching device 560, those that do not reach the gaming area 30 (hereinafter referred to as "foul balls") flow into the foul passage 501. A foul ball switch 572 (see FIG. 8) is disposed in the circulation unit 500. The foul ball switch 572 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to the detection of a gaming ball passing through the foul passage 501. The gaming ball that has flowed into the foul passage 501 flows into the storage tank 510 after being detected by the foul ball switch 572.

[0042] 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 disposed downstream of the storage tank 510. The storage tank 510 is provided with an excess circulating ball number sensor 573 and an insufficient circulating ball number sensor 574. The excess circulating ball number sensor 573 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detecting a state in which the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 (i.e., game balls circulating within the pachinko machine 1) exceeds an upper limit number (e.g., 49 balls) (excessive circulating ball number state). The insufficient circulating ball number sensor 574 outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 400 in response to detecting 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 circulating ball number 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.

[0043] The lifting unit 520 lifts the gaming 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 gaming 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 gaming balls guided from the storage tank 510 are lifted upward by the screw conveyor 521 until they 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. Ball passage 540 is a passage that slopes downward on the right side. A flow straightener 550 is disposed downstream of ball passage 540. A launching device 560 is also disposed downstream of flow straightener 550. The rectifier 550 is configured to include a rectifier solenoid 551 that sends gaming balls to the launching device 560. A rectifier inlet sensor 552 is arranged 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 the detection of a gaming ball located at the inlet of the rectifier 550. Furthermore, a rectifier outlet sensor 553 (see FIG. 8) is arranged 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 the detection of a gaming ball located at the outlet of the rectifier 550. The launching device 560 includes a hammer (not shown) that launches the game balls sent out from the rectifier 550, and a launching motor 561 (see FIG. 8) that rotates the hammer. The gaming ball that has reached ball passage 540 flows down ball passage 540 and reaches rectifier 550. When the launch handle is rotated, rectifier solenoid 551 is driven, and the gaming ball is sent to launching device 560, and launching motor 561 is driven, and the hammer rotates, thereby launching the gaming ball.

[0044] (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 Figure 8, the pachinko machine 1 is composed of 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 control board 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.

[0045] (Main control board 200) The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, input ports, output ports, and the like. The input port of the main control board 200 receives the detection signal from the vibration detection sensor 113, the detection signal from the radio wave detection sensor 114, and the detection signal from the magnetic detection sensor 115. Furthermore, 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 to the input port of the main control board 200. 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 prize entry 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 and 104b. Furthermore, a control command from the frame control board 400 is input 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 operation of the normal electric role solenoid 64, a control signal for controlling the operation of the first large prize opening solenoid 65, a control signal for controlling the operation of the second large prize opening solenoid 66, and a control signal for controlling the operation 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.

[0046] (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 sound 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 progression of the performance, data necessary for the progression 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 commands received from the main control board 200. Then, in accordance with 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 the generated control data to the image display device 31, sound generation device 22, each of the lamps 20 and 21, each of the motors, 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.

[0047] (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, ROM, RAM, input ports, output ports, etc. 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 counting 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 excessive 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 operation of the lifting motor 522, a control signal for controlling the operation of the rectifier solenoid 551, a control signal for controlling the operation 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.

[0048] (About various lotteries) Next, various lotteries executed by the main control board 200 will be described. In the main control board 200, when the gaming ball passes through the start gate 41, a regular symbol lottery is executed. In this embodiment, the results of the normal symbol lottery are defined as "normal symbol win" and "lose." If a "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 device 52a is shifted (opened) from a closed state to an open state, and a 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 which the variable display of the special symbols is performed (hereinafter referred to as "variation time") is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. In this embodiment, during execution of the time-saving control, the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery is improved and the time for which the variable display of the normal symbols is performed is shortened compared to when the time-saving control is stopped. Furthermore, 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 a "normal win" is won, the number of times that the normal electric device 52a opens is set to 1 [time] or 3 [times], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a 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 that the normal electric device 52a opens is set to 3 [times], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a each time is set to 2.0 [s]. On the other hand, while the time-saving control is stopped, the number of times that the normal electric device 52a opens is set to 1 [time], and the opening time of the normal electric device 52a each time is set to 0.5 [s].

[0049] In addition, on the main control board 200, a first special pattern lottery is executed when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 51, and a second special pattern lottery is executed when a gaming ball enters 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 a "small win") is higher than the winning probability of the first special symbol lottery. Also, the winning probability of each special symbol lottery is set according to a set value. If a "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. If the passage of the gaming ball that entered the first large winning opening 53 through the V area is detected during the execution of the small win game, the big win game state is triggered upon the end of the small win game state. On the other hand, if the passage of the gaming ball that entered the first large winning opening 53 through the V area is not detected during the execution of the small win game, the big win game state is not triggered. In the jackpot gaming 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 the game ball can enter the second large winning hole 54. Then, upon completion of the jackpot gaming state, time-shortening control is initiated.

[0050] (Regarding managing 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 in possession is stored as numerical data in a predetermined area (hereinafter referred to as the "ball count storage area") of the RAM of the frame control board 400. The number of balls in possession stored in the ball count storage area is displayed on the ball count display unit 41a. When a new game is started in the pachinko machine 1, the number of balls stored in the number of balls held storage area is normally 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 held stored in the number of balls held storage area. Furthermore, in the frame control board 400, each time a game ball is shot, 1 [ball] is subtracted from the number of balls in possession stored in the ball number storage area. In this embodiment, each time the detection signal from the rectifier outlet sensor 553 switches from an ON state to an OFF state, a game ball is assumed to have been shot, and 1 [ball] is subtracted from the number of balls in possession stored in the ball number storage area. Furthermore, in the frame control board 400, each time a detection signal is input from the foul ball switch 572 (each time a foul ball is detected), 1 [ball] is added to the number of balls in possession stored in the ball number storage area. Furthermore, when a gaming ball enters one of the winning slots 51 to 55, the main control board 200 detects the ball by a corresponding switch, and a prize ball designation command designating the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning slot into which the gaming ball entered is sent 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 possessed balls stored in the possessed ball number storage area. Furthermore, in the frame control board 400, when the number of balls stored in the ball count 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 counting button 41 is pressed for a duration shorter than a reference time), the first predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls stored in the ball count 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 count 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 for a long time (a counting operation in which the counting button 41 is pressed for a duration longer than a reference time), the second predetermined number is subtracted from the number of balls stored in the ball count 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.

[0051] (Action of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. The pachinko machine 1 is equipped with a lower decorative unit 40 provided on the front door unit 4, a counting operation unit 41 provided on the upper surface of the lower decorative unit 40, and counting buttons 41b provided on the upper surface of the counting operation unit 41. The upper surface of the counting operation unit 41 is inclined toward the front side, and the counting operation unit 41 is positioned so that the counting buttons 41b can be operated with the hand placed on the lower decorative unit 40. That is, in the pachinko machine 1, the upper surface of the counting operation unit 41 on which the counting buttons 41b are provided is inclined toward the front side. This makes it easier to operate the counting buttons 41b compared to when the upper surface of the counting operation unit 41 is horizontally disposed, and makes it possible to improve the operability of the counting buttons 41b. In particular, in the pachinko machine 1, the counting operation unit 41 is positioned so that the counting button 41b can be operated with the hand placed on the lower decorative unit 40. This makes it possible to operate the counting button 41b simply by moving the finger with the hand placed on the lower decorative unit 40, further improving the operability of the counting button 41b.

[0052] (Variation) 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 present invention is applied to a gaming machine (a so-called "controlled gaming machine") that uses a predetermined number of gaming balls circulated within the gaming machine for play, allowing the game to proceed without directly lending gaming balls or paying out prize balls to the player (i.e., without the player directly touching the gaming balls). However, the present invention may also be applied to a normal gaming machine in which game balls are lent and prize balls are paid out directly to the player.

[0053] In addition, in the above embodiment, 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., on the opposite side of the firing handle unit 6). The setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) and the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) are arranged on the open side in the left-right direction (on the right side in this embodiment) of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). However, the counting operation unit 41 may be configured to be located to the right of the center in the left-right direction of the lower decorative unit 40 (i.e., on the side of the launch handle unit 6).The setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) and the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) may be configured to be located on the opposite side of the open side in the left-right direction (left side in this embodiment) of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). In such a configuration, the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) is positioned so that the position of the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) is shifted toward the front with respect to the position of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) in the front-to-back direction. In particular, the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) is positioned so that the position of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) is shifted downward with respect to the position of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c). In other words, the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) is positioned so that the height of the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b) (the height of the top of the counting button 41b) is lower than the height of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, cross key button 42c). Furthermore, when the pachinko machine 1 is viewed from above, of the virtual lines extending in the left-right direction, if the virtual line passing through the rear end of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is defined as the third virtual line L3, and the virtual line passing through the front end of the setting button unit 42 (light intensity adjustment button 42a, volume adjustment button 42b, and cross key button 42c) is defined as the fourth virtual line L4, it is preferable that the third virtual line L3 and the fourth virtual line L4 are configured so as not to overlap the effect button unit 43 (effect button 5b) but to overlap the counting operation unit 41 (counting button 41b). [Explanation of symbols]

[0054] 1. Pachinko machines 2 Outer frame unit 3 Inner frame unit 4 Front door unit 10 Game board unit 40 Lower decorative unit 41 Counting operation unit 41a Ball count display 41b Count button 42 Setting button unit 43 Production button unit 500 circulation units

Claims

[Claim 1] A bulge portion provided in the front door unit; a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided on an upper surface of the bulging portion; a first operation portion provided on an upper surface of the first operation unit; a processing means for executing a first process and a second process as processes relating to counting of game media in accordance with an operation time of the first operation unit; The upper surface of the first operation unit is inclined toward the front side, the second operation unit includes a plurality of operation sections capable of setting different items, the plurality of operation units includes a second operation unit, The first operation unit and the second operation unit have operation surfaces at different heights, A gaming machine characterized in that the distance from the opening and closing axis of the front door unit to the first operation unit is farther than that to the second operation unit.

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