Prize-winning game machine

Abstract

To provide a prize-winning game device that allows players to play the game efficiently. [Solution] The prize acquisition game device 10 includes a prize acquisition unit 16, an operation unit (display unit 44 or operation unit 46), and a control unit 40. A single prize acquisition operation controlled by the control unit 40 has a first game state in which, upon receiving an operation to the operation unit, the prize acquisition unit 16, which is in a standby state, is made to perform a prize acquisition operation including the operation to capture a prize, and a second game state in which the prize acquisition unit 16 is made to perform a prize release operation including the operation to release the prize 14, and then returns to a standby state. When the control unit 40 receives a predetermined operation to the operation unit while in the second game state, it cancels at least a part of the prize release operation after the predetermined operation was received, and from the point of cancellation, it transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a prize acquisition game device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a prize acquisition game device that realizes a game in which at least a part of prizes stored in a storage space is dropped into a drop space provided below the storage space for acquisition (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a prize acquisition game device, one prize acquisition operation includes a first game state in which when an operation on an operation unit is received, an operation for capturing a prize by a prize acquisition unit in a standby state is performed on the prize acquisition unit, and a prize release operation including an operation for releasing the prize by the prize acquisition unit, and further, a second game state in which the prize acquisition unit is set to the standby state. Therefore, when the prize acquisition unit fails to capture a prize in the prize capture operation in the first game state, the next prize acquisition operation cannot be started until the prize release operation in the second game state ends, and there is a problem that the player feels that the waiting time is wasted.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of these problems, and aims to provide a prize acquisition game device configured such that, when a predetermined operation is received on the control unit in the second game state, at least a part of the currently executing prize acquisition operation (at least a part of the prize release operation) is stopped, and from the point of stopping, the device transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation (starts the prize capture operation of the next prize acquisition operation). [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a prize acquisition game device that realizes a game in which at least a portion of prizes stored in a storage space are dropped into a drop space provided below the storage space to be acquired, and comprises a prize acquisition unit, an operation unit that receives operations from a player, and a control unit that controls the operation of the prize acquisition unit, wherein one prize acquisition operation controlled by the control unit comprises a first game state in which, upon receiving an operation from the operation unit, the prize acquisition unit, which is in a standby state, is made to perform a prize acquisition operation including an operation to capture the prize, and a second game state in which the prize acquisition unit is made to perform a prize release operation including an operation to release the prize, and further puts the prize acquisition unit back into the standby state, wherein when the control unit is in the second game state and receives a predetermined operation from the operation unit, it cancels at least a portion of the prize release operation after the predetermined operation is received, and transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation from the point of cancellation.

[0007] With this configuration, when the control unit receives a predetermined operation from the control unit in the second game state, it stops at least a portion of the currently executing prize acquisition operation (at least a portion of the prize release operation) from the point of reception, and transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation (starts the prize capture operation of the next prize acquisition operation). As a result, the player can start the next prize acquisition operation without waiting for the second game state to end, allowing for efficient gameplay and eliminating the stress of waiting for the second game state to end. Furthermore, since at least a portion of the prize acquisition operation after receiving a predetermined operation from the control unit can be omitted to start the next prize acquisition operation, the operating rate of the prize acquisition game machine can be improved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the prize-winning game device of the present invention, players can play the game efficiently. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the prize acquisition game device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the prize-winning game machine shown above, with the left door open. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the prize-winning game machine shown above, with the left opening door and opening / closing plate in the open position. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of the prize-winning game machine shown above, viewed from a different direction, with the left opening door and opening / closing plate in the open position. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the prize acquisition section and the movement section of the prize acquisition game device described above. [Figure 6] This is a magnified view of the display and operation area of ​​the prize-winning game machine shown above. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit and its surroundings for the prize acquisition game device described above. [Figure 8]This is a flowchart of game processing performed by the control unit, showing the processing of the 1-1 game state which constitutes the first game state. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of game processing performed by the control unit, showing the processing of the first and second game states that constitute the first game state. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart of game processing performed by the control unit, showing the processing of the second game state. [Figure 11] This section describes the process for initiating the next prize acquisition operation within the game processing of the second game state described above. [Figure 12] The first variation of the game processing for the second game state described above is shown. [Figure 13] A second variation of the game processing for the second game state described above is shown. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram for illustrating the positional relationship between the storage space, the drop space, and the prize acquisition unit, where (a) shows the case where the prize acquisition unit is in the standby position, and (b) shows the case where the prize acquisition unit is at the furthest point. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the prize acquisition game device 10 realizes a game in which a player acquires a prize 14 (see Figure 4), such as a stuffed animal, which is stored in a storage space 12, by acquiring it with a prize acquisition unit 16 and dropping it into a drop space 18 provided below the storage space 12. Hereinafter, the prize acquisition game device 10 will be simply abbreviated as "device 10". As shown in Figure 1, when the device 10 is viewed from the front, the horizontal direction from left to right will be described as the X-axis direction (first direction), the horizontal direction from front to back will be described as the Y-axis direction (second direction), and the direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction (vertical direction) will be described as the Z-axis direction (third direction).

[0011] The device 10 includes, for example, a rectangular prism housing 20. The housing 20 is composed of a base 22 and a housing 24.

[0012] First, the housing 24 will be described. The housing 24 is provided on the base 22. The housing 24 is composed of a ceiling surface 24A, a side surface 24B, and a floor surface 24C, and forms a storage space 12 inside, surrounded by these. In this storage space 12, in addition to the prize 14 accommodated as described above, other items such as balls may be accommodated.

[0013] Inside the ceiling surface 24A, a prize acquisition unit 16 for gripping the prize 14 is suspended via a moving unit 60. As shown in FIG. 5, the prize acquisition unit 16 is movable in, for example, the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the figure by a moving unit 60 composed of a rail, a motor, etc. This prize acquisition unit 16 includes a support part 16A composed of a telescopic pipe suspended vertically (Z-axis direction) from the inner upper surface, and a gripping part 16B provided at the lower end thereof. A plurality of gripping claws 16C for gripping the prize 14 are provided on the gripping part 16B. In the present embodiment, the number of the gripping claws 16C is designed to be three. The prize acquisition unit 16 is configured to be movable in the Z-axis direction with respect to the gripping part 16B and the gripping claws 16C by expanding and contracting the support part 16A.

[0014] The prize acquisition unit 16 is attached to a moving table 62 of the moving unit 60 and is movable in each of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction by the moving unit 60. The moving unit 60 is, for example, a so-called H-type XY stage. Therefore, the moving unit 60 includes a Y-axis unit 64 composed of a Y-direction guide 64A extending in the Y-axis direction and a Y drive unit 64B that moves the moving table 62 in the Y-axis direction along this Y-direction guide 64A, and two X-direction guides 66A, 66B extending in the X-axis direction and supporting the Y-direction guide 64A at both ends thereof, and an X drive unit 66C that moves the Y-direction guide 64A in the X-axis direction along with the moving table 62 along these X-direction guides 66A, 66B. Here, a linear motor or a ball screw can be used for the X drive unit 66C and the Y drive unit 64B. As shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b), the prize acquisition unit 16 is configured to be movable within a rectangular region (movable region) R in the storage space 12 by the moving unit 60.

[0015] Further, on the X-direction guide 66A of the X-axis unit 66, three X-position sensors 68 are arranged for detecting the position of the Y-direction guide 64A on the X-direction guide 66A. Also, on the Y-direction guide 64A of the Y-axis unit 64, three Y-position sensors 70 are arranged for detecting the position of the stage 62 on the Y-direction guide 64A. In this embodiment, as will be described later, the dropping space 18 is formed at the left end of the front side of the apparatus 10. Therefore, when the Y-direction guide 64A is located at the left end of the X-direction guides 66A and 66B and the stage 62 is located at the front end of the Y-direction guide 64A, the prize acquisition unit 16 performs an operation of releasing the prize 14 and waits until the start of the next game. This position is called the standby position or the home position (see Fig. 14(a)). The X-position sensor 68 includes a home-side X sensor 68A for detecting that the prize acquisition unit 16 (Y-direction guide 64A) is at the end on the standby position side (home end) of the X-direction guide 66A, an end-side X sensor 68C for detecting that it is at the end on the side opposite to the standby position (end end), and a center X sensor 68B for detecting that it is in the middle (center) of the X-direction guide 66A. Also, the Y-position sensor 70 includes a home-side Y sensor 70A for detecting that the prize acquisition unit 16 (stage 62) is at the end on the standby position side (home end) of the Y-direction guide 64A, an end-side Y sensor 70C for detecting that it is at the end on the side opposite to the standby position (end end), and a center Y sensor 70B for detecting that it is in the middle (center) of the Y-direction guide 64A. The detection results by the X-position sensor 68 and the Y-position sensor 70 are output to the control unit 40.

[0016] The position (coordinates in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction) of the prize acquisition unit 16 in the accommodation space 12 can be determined (acquired) based on a control signal or the like output from the control unit 40 to the X-driving unit 66C and the Y-driving unit 64B. However, it may be displaced due to mechanical errors or the like. By correcting the information regarding the position based on the detection results by the above-described X-position sensor 68 and Y-position sensor 70 (whether it is at the home end, the center, or the end end in the X-axis direction, and whether it is at the home end, the center, or the end end in the Y-axis direction), an accurate position can be acquired.

[0017] The front and side surfaces of the side 24B are formed from transparent resin or glass plate-like members so that the player can visually inspect the prizes 14 and other items stored inside the container 24. In particular, the front of the container 24 is composed of an opening / closing door 26. Here, the opening / closing door 26 includes two sliding opening / closing doors (the left opening / closing door 26A, which is the first opening / closing door, and the right opening / closing door 26B, which is the second opening / closing door). The opening / closing doors 26A and 26B are provided on the container 24 so that they can be opened and closed. These opening / closing doors 26A and 26B are each provided with pull handles 26C and 26D. In this embodiment, the opening / closing doors 26A and 26B can be opened and closed by a worker (or manager) gripping the pull handles 26C and 26D. Specifically, the left opening / closing door 26A is opened by gripping the pull handle 26C and sliding it to the right, and closed by sliding it to the left. Furthermore, the right-hand opening door 26B opens when a worker (or manager) grasps the handle 26D and slides it to the left, and closes when they slide it to the right. When these opening doors 26A and 26B are opened, the internal storage space 12 is exposed, and an opening 12A communicating with the storage space 12 is formed (see, for example, Figure 2).

[0018] Furthermore, the back of the side surface 24B is formed of a mirror-like plate-like member or a plate-like member with decoration. Although not shown, one or more support parts for supporting shelves for placing prizes 14, etc., may be provided on the inside of the side surface or back surface. Note that "front" refers to the side of the base 22 on which the operating section 46, described later, is provided.

[0019] The floor surface 24C functions as a prize display stand on which prizes 14 are placed. A drop space 18 is formed in one of the front corners of the floor surface 24C (the corner on the left opening / closing door 26A side) where the prizes 14 fall. The drop space 18, when viewed from above, is, for example, rectangular in shape. Two sides of this rectangular shape are formed by the floor surface 24C. A first partition 30 and a second partition 32 are provided on the two sides of the floor surface 24C that are in contact with the drop space 18. A third partition 34 is also provided on the front side of the floor surface 24C, excluding the drop space 18. The overall top view shape of the first partition 30, the second partition 32, and the third partition 34 is, for example, crank-shaped.

[0020] Next, the base 22 will be described. The base 22 forms the drop space 18 described above. The base 22 includes, for example, a control unit 40, an input box 42, a display unit 44, an operation unit 46, a locking unit 48, and an opening / closing plate 50.

[0021] The control unit 40 is connected to each component of the device 10, such as the prize acquisition unit 16 (movement unit 60), the display unit 44, and the operation unit 46, and controls the operation of each component. The control unit 40 is connected to door sensors 27 (left door sensor 27A and right door sensor 27B) that detect the opening and closing of the opening and closing doors 26, which are provided in corners between the front and side surfaces. When the control unit 40 receives a detection signal from the door sensors 27 indicating that one of the opening and closing doors 26 (at least one of the left opening and closing door 26A and the right opening and closing door 26B) is open, it performs control to prohibit the automatic movement of the prize acquisition unit 16. This prevents the prize acquisition unit 16 from coming into contact with an employee (manager) who has opened the opening and closing door 26. The control unit 40 may also physically fix the prize acquisition unit 16 and prohibit its manual movement, but in this embodiment, manual movement is permitted. Furthermore, in this embodiment, even when the opening / closing door 26 is open, the prize acquisition unit 16 can be moved to the standby position (home position) by operating the display unit 44, which will be described later.

[0022] The input box 42 is into which the game medium is inserted to start the game. This input box 42 is located on the base 22 in a place other than the opening / closing plate 50. The input box 42 includes an input slot 42A into which the game medium is inserted, an internal space for storing the inserted game medium (not shown), and a coin chute that connects the input slot 42A and the internal space and guides the game medium inserted from the input slot 42A into the internal space. While coins are common as game mediums, banknotes, cards or balls exchanged for coins or banknotes may also be used.

[0023] The display unit 44 is composed of a touch panel or the like, and displays and inputs various information, such as the settings information of the device 10. For example, when the device 10 is in a control state that accepts operations from the player and provides a game in which the player can acquire a prize ("game mode"), the control unit 40 displays information about the currently running game (for example, the remaining time of the currently running game) on the display unit 44 and provides it to the player. The display unit 44 also accepts operations from the player (for example, an operation to start the next prize acquisition operation in the middle of the current prize acquisition operation, as will be described later). On the other hand, when the device 10 is in a control state where settings are made ("setting mode"), the control unit 40 displays items and menus for settings for the device 10 on the display unit 44 and accepts operations from the operator (manager) on this display unit 44.

[0024] To enter setting mode, a setting key (not shown) must be inserted into the key slot 72 located at the bottom of the display unit 44 (see Figure 6). When the control unit 40 detects that a setting key has been inserted into the key slot 72, it verifies whether the setting key is a legitimate key set for this device 10. If it is a legitimate key, the control unit 40 switches the control state to setting mode. On the other hand, when the setting key is removed from the key slot 72, the control unit 40 switches the control state to game mode.

[0025] The operation unit 46 is an operation unit related to acquiring the prize 14, and inputs, for example, the player's movement operations to the prize acquisition unit 16. The operation unit 46 is provided on the base 22 at a location other than the opening / closing plate 50. In this embodiment, the operation unit 46 has a first operation unit 46A which is a joystick and a second operation unit 46B which is a button (see Figure 6). By tilting the joystick, which is the first operation unit 46A, the player can move the prize acquisition unit 16 in the direction it is tilted (X-axis and Y-axis), and by pressing the button, which is the second operation unit 46B, the player can cause the prize acquisition unit 16 to capture the prize at the position where the operation was performed.

[0026] As described above, the apparatus 10 according to this embodiment has a control unit 40 which includes a display unit 44 and an operation unit 46 as operation units (input units) that receive operations from the player.

[0027] The locking mechanism 48 locks the opening / closing door 26 with a key (not shown). The locking mechanism 48 is provided on the outer surface of the base 22. In this embodiment, the base 22 has two locking mechanisms: a left locking mechanism 48A for locking the left opening / closing door 26A, and a right locking mechanism 48B for locking the right opening / closing door 26B.

[0028] The opening / closing plate 50 is provided on the base 22 so as to be openable and closable. The method of "opening and closing" is not particularly limited, but examples include rotation, sliding, folding, and detachment. In this embodiment, the opening / closing plate 50 is opened from a closed state by rotating towards the front on one end in the width direction of the housing (for example, the left end in the figure) as an axis (see Figure 3 or Figure 4). In addition, a prize collection opening 52 that communicates with the drop space 18 is formed in the center of the opening / closing plate 50, for example. A flap 54 is attached to the back surface of the opening / closing plate 50 as a covering member that covers this prize collection opening 52. The plate-shaped flap 54 is configured to be rotatable in the depth direction on an axis at its upper end (the lower end is movable back and forth). As a result of the rotation of this flap 54, the drop space 18 is exposed through the prize collection opening 52.

[0029] Passage sensors 74 are provided on the left and right sides of the upper end of the drop space 18 to detect prizes 14 falling from the storage space 12 into the drop space 18. These passage sensors 74 consist of, for example, a light source unit that emits light such as infrared light, which is located on one of the left and right sides, and a light receiving unit located on the other side that receives and detects the light from the light source unit. The detection signal from the passage sensors 74 is output to the control unit 40. Therefore, when a prize 14 falls from the storage space 12 towards the drop space 18 and crosses the light from the passage sensors 74, this light is blocked, and during that time, the light receiving unit is unable to detect the light. The control unit 40 can detect that a prize 14 has fallen from the storage space 12 into the drop space 18 by detecting when the output from the passage sensors 74 changes from a light receiving state (on) to a state where it cannot receive light (off), and then back to a light receiving state (on).

[0030] As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 40 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 82, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 84, a ROM (Read-only Memory) 86, a drive device 88, and a network I / F (Interface) unit 90. These components are connected to each other via a bus 92, enabling data transmission and reception. Furthermore, these components are also connected via the bus 92 to the prize acquisition unit 16 (movement unit 60), sensors 27, 68, 70, 74, display unit 44, operation unit 46, key slot 72, etc., enabling data transmission and reception.

[0031] The CPU 82 is a control unit that controls the operation of the prize acquisition unit 16 (movement unit 60) based on input from the operation unit 46, controls setting information, and performs calculations and processing of data. The CPU 82 is also an arithmetic unit that executes control programs (setting programs) stored in the RAM 84 or ROM 86.

[0032] RAM84 is, for example, the main memory. RAM84 is a storage device that stores or temporarily stores programs and data such as the OS (Operating System) and application software, which are the basic software executed by the CPU82, as well as configuration information for the device 10.

[0033] ROM86 is a memory device that stores data related to, for example, a control program.

[0034] The drive device 88 reads programs and data from the recording medium 96, such as a CD-ROM or SD card, and installs or saves them to the storage device.

[0035] Furthermore, the recording medium 96 stores a predetermined program, and the program stored on this recording medium 96 is installed on the device 10 via the drive device 88. The installed predetermined program becomes executable by the device 10. The recording medium 96 also stores predetermined data, and the data stored on this recording medium 96 is saved on the device 10 via the drive device 88.

[0036] The network interface unit 90 is an interface with other devices connected via the network.

[0037] Although not shown in the diagram, the device 10 is also equipped with a performance unit that executes sound and light effects, and the control unit 40 is configured to execute the effects according to the game situation based on the performance unit.

[0038] The control unit 40 is configured to manage and switch between multiple control states, including the "game mode" and "setting mode" described above. For example, as described above, when the control unit 40 detects that a setting key has been inserted into the key slot 47, it determines whether or not this setting key is a valid key, and if it determines that it is a valid key, it changes the control state of the device 10 to setting mode. On the other hand, when the control unit 40 detects that the setting key has been removed from the key slot 47, it changes the control state of the device 10 to game mode.

[0039] First, the control of a normal game performed by the control unit 40 will be explained using Figures 8 to 10. The control unit 40 is configured to execute the game when the control state is in game mode. Furthermore, this embodiment will describe the case where a prize acquisition operation is performed once per game (credit).

[0040] Here, the prize acquisition operation refers to an operation consisting of a first game state in which, when the control unit 40 receives an operation from the operation unit 46, the prize acquisition unit 16, which is in a standby state, performs a prize acquisition operation that includes the operation of capturing the prize 14, and a second game state in which the prize acquisition unit 16 performs a prize release operation that includes the operation of releasing the prize 14, and further puts the prize acquisition unit 16 into a standby state. However, the first game state in this embodiment consists of a 1-1 game state in which, when an operation is received by the operation unit 46 (first operation unit 46A), the prize acquisition unit 16, which is located in a standby position (standby state) within the storage space 12, is moved in the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction (a first direction and a second direction which are mutually orthogonal) within the storage space 12 in response to the operation of the operation unit 46, and a 1-2 game state in which, when an operation is received by the operation unit 46 (second operation unit 46B), the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 are made to perform an action to grasp the prize 14 (an action to capture the prize 14).

[0041] As shown in Figure 8, when the game mode is activated, the control unit 40 accepts credits (game media) from the player (step S100). Specifically, the control unit 40 sets the number of games according to the number of game media inserted into the input box 42. For example, if one game media is inserted, the number of games (credits) is set to 1, and if three game media are inserted, the number of games (credits) is set to 5.

[0042] The control unit 40 sets the game state to the 1st-1 game state of the first game state, subtracts 1 from the current number of credits (consumes 1 credit), and starts the game (prize acquisition operation) (step S102). When the game (prize acquisition operation) starts, the control unit 40 causes the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the prize acquisition operation. First, it receives an operation from the player to the first operation unit 46A, and moves the prize acquisition unit 16 in the direction of the operation (X-axis and Y-axis) using the movement unit 60 (step S104). It then repeatedly determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the current game (step S106) and whether the second operation unit 46B has been operated (step S108). If it determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S106:N) and the second operation unit 46B has not been operated (step S108:N), the control unit 40 returns to step S104 and repeats the processing thereafter. In other words, until the second operation unit 46B is operated within a predetermined time, the player can move the prize acquisition unit 16 to a desired position within the movable area R shown in Figure 14 by operating the first operation unit 46A.

[0043] On the other hand, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed (step S106:Y) or that the second operation unit 46B has been operated (step S108:Y), as shown in Figure 9, the control unit 40 transitions the game state from the 1-1 game state to the 1-2 game state, and extends the support unit 16A vertically downward at the current position of the prize acquisition unit 16 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, thereby starting the downward movement of the gripping unit 16B and gripping claws 16C (step S110). The control unit 40 then extends the support unit 16A and repeatedly performs the following: determining whether or not the second operation unit 46B has been operated (step S112), and determining whether or not the support unit 16A has been extended to a predetermined length and the extension is complete (step S114). If the control unit 40 determines that the second operating unit 46B has not been operated (step S112:N) and that the support unit 16A has not extended to a predetermined length and the extension is not complete (step S114:N), the control unit 40 continues the extension operation of the support unit 16A and returns to step S112 to repeat the subsequent processing.

[0044] On the other hand, if the second operating unit 46B is operated while the support unit 16A is extending (step S112:Y), or if the control unit 40 determines that the support unit 16A has been extended to a predetermined length and the extension operation is complete (step S114:Y), the control unit 40 stops the extension operation of the support unit 16A and terminates it (step S116), and closes the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the operation of grasping the prize 14 (step S118). In this embodiment, by operating the second operating unit 46B while the support unit 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 is extending, the extension of the support unit 16A stops at that point, and the operation to grasp the next prize 14 is initiated. This allows the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the grasping operation (the operation to capture the prize 14) at a height (position in the Z-axis direction) desired by the player.

[0045] When the gripping operation by the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 is completed, the control unit 40 terminates the prize acquisition operation, transitions the game state from the first-second game state to the second game state, starts accepting the next game operation, and starts the prize release operation of the prize acquisition unit 16. In this embodiment, the prize release operation consists of a series of operations (referred to as the "preliminary stage") in which the gripping unit 16B of the prize acquisition unit 16, with the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 in a closed state, is retracted until the support unit 16A is in its shortest state and moved upward, and the movement unit 60 moves the prize acquisition unit 16, with the support unit 16A in its shortest state, to the drop position in the drop space 18, opens the gripping claws 16C to release the prize 14, and if the drop position and the standby position are different, the prize acquisition unit 16 is moved to the standby position (if the drop position and the standby position are the same, that position is maintained).

[0046] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 40, in the preliminary step to the prize release operation, reduces the support part 16A vertically upward and begins the upward movement of the gripping part 16B and gripping claws 16C (step S120). The control unit 40 then repeatedly reduces the support part 16A and determines whether the player has performed an operation to end the current game and start the next game (interrupting the current prize acquisition operation and starting the next prize acquisition operation) (hereinafter referred to as "next game operation") (step S124), and whether the support part 16A has been reduced to its shortest state and the reduction is complete (step S130). If the control unit 40 determines that the next game operation has not been performed (step S124:N), and that the support part 16A has not been reduced to its shortest state and the reduction is not complete (step S130:N), the control unit 40 continues the reduction operation of the support part 16A and returns to step S124 and repeats the process from there. Details of the next game operation will be described later. On the other hand, if the support portion 16A is reduced to its shortest length and the control unit determines that the reduction operation is complete (step S130:Y), the control unit 40 stops the reduction operation of the support portion 16A and terminates (step S132).

[0047] Furthermore, the control unit 40 initiates the subsequent stages of the prize release operation (step S134). Here, the drop position is on the drop space 18 and should be a position in which the prize 14 can fall into the drop space 18 when the gripping claws 16C open and release the prize 14. This position may be the same as the standby position described above, or it may be a different position from the standby position. Also, when the gripping claws 16C open and the prize 14 falls into the drop space 18, the control unit 40 can detect that the player has acquired the prize 14 based on the output from the passage sensor 74 described above. Therefore, the control unit 40 may be configured to execute sound and light effects via the performance unit in response to the acquisition of the prize 14.

[0048] The control unit 40 repeatedly performs the following steps: instructing the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the subsequent steps of the prize release operation, determining whether the next game operation has been performed (step S136), and determining whether the prize acquisition unit 16 has moved to the standby position and stopped (i.e., whether the prize release operation has been completed) (step S140). If the control unit 40 determines that the next game operation has not been performed (step S136:N) and that the prize release operation of the prize acquisition unit 16 has not been completed (step S140:N), the control unit 40 continues the execution of the subsequent steps of the prize release operation of the prize acquisition unit 16 and returns to step S136 to repeat the process.

[0049] On the other hand, if the control unit 40 determines that the latter part of the prize release operation of the prize acquisition unit 16 is complete (step S140:Y), the control unit 40 puts the prize acquisition unit 16 into a standby state and then terminates accepting the next game operation (step S142). The control unit 40 then determines whether or not there are remaining credits (step S144), and if it determines that there are remaining credits (step S144:Y), the control unit 40 returns to step S102 and transitions the game state from the second game state to the 1st-1 game state of the first game state, and repeats the above process (execution of the next game or the next prize acquisition operation). On the other hand, if it determines that there are no remaining credits (step S144:N), the control unit 40 returns to step S100 and transitions to a state where it accepts credits from the player.

[0050] In the above explanation, the first operation unit 46A is described as a joystick and the second operation unit 46B as a button, but the first operation unit 46A may also be a button. In this case, when the first operation unit 46A is being operated (the button is pressed) on the prize acquisition unit 16 which is in standby mode, the control unit 40 moves the prize acquisition unit 16 in the X-axis direction (to the right in the left-right direction), and when the operation of the first operation unit 46A is released (the button is released), the control unit 40 stops the prize acquisition unit 16 at that position. Next, the control unit 40 controls the prize acquisition unit 16 in the Y-axis direction (towards the back in the front-to-back direction) when the second operation unit 46B is being operated (the button is pressed), and when the operation of the second operation unit 46B is released (the button is returned), it stops the prize acquisition unit 16 at that position (ends the 1-1 game state), extends the support unit 16A and closes the gripping claws 16C to grasp the prize 14, retracts the support unit 16A and moves the prize acquisition unit 16 to the drop position, opens the gripping claws 16C to release the prize 14, and puts it into standby position (executes the 1-2 game state and the 2nd game state).

[0051] Furthermore, in the above explanation, the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 are in the open state when it transitions to the standby state. However, the control unit 40 may, after causing the prize acquisition unit 16 to release the prize in the prize release operation (later stage), close the gripping claws 16C and then transition to the standby state in step S142. In this case, since the gripping claws 16C are in the closed state at the start of the next game (start of the next prize acquisition operation), the control unit 40 causes the gripping claws 16C to open before starting the extension of the support unit 16A in step S110.

[0052] Furthermore, although the support section 16A of the prize acquisition section 16 was constructed using an extendable pipe in the above description, the support section 16A may also be constructed using a wire, and the support section 16A may be extended or retracted by unwinding and winding this wire using a drum.

[0053] (Next game operation) Next, the operation for the next game will be explained. As mentioned above, once the game transitions to the second game state, the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) cannot be started until the prize acquisition unit 16 releases the prize and returns to the standby position (home position) and transitions back to the standby state. For example, if the player operates the second operation unit 46B to cause the prize acquisition unit 16's gripping claws 16C to grab the prize, but fails to grab the prize 14 (fails to capture the prize 14), the player may feel that the time it takes to return to the standby position is wasted. Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit 40 is configured to accept the next game operation when the game is in the second game state. When the control unit 40 receives a request for the next game from the player, if the conditions described later are met, the control unit 40 is configured to terminate the current game (prize acquisition operation) and start the next game (next prize acquisition operation) (transitioning from the second game state of the current game (prize acquisition operation) to the first game state (1-1 game state) of the next game (next prize acquisition operation)) when the preceding stage of the prize release operation is completed, or when the request is received, when the latter stage of the prize release operation is being executed.

[0054] The following describes the processing of the control unit 40 when the next game operation is performed. The explanation will be divided into two cases: when the next game operation is performed while the support unit 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 is retracting (during the execution of the pre-prize release operation) and when the next game operation is performed after the retraction is complete (during the execution of the post-prize release operation) in the second game state.

[0055] As described above, when the control unit 40 transitions to the second game state, it begins accepting the next game operation and simultaneously reduces the support unit 16A, which is the preceding step in the prize release operation, vertically upward, and begins moving the gripping unit 16B and gripping claws 16C upward (step S120 in Figure 10). At this time, in order to inform the player that it has begun accepting the next game operation, the control unit 40 displays (notifies) that the next game operation is possible on the display unit 44, which acts as a notification unit, and also displays a button to accept the next game operation (referred to as the "next game button"), and enables acceptance of this next game button. At this time, the control unit 40 may also notify the player that the next game operation is possible by performing sound and light effects using the performance unit.

[0056] Then, as the support part 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 shrinks, the control unit 40 repeatedly performs the following: determining whether or not the next game operation has been performed (whether the next game button on the display unit 44 has been pressed) (step S124), and determining whether or not the shrinking has been completed when the support part 16A has been reduced to its shortest state (step S130). If it is determined that the next game operation has been performed during the shrinking operation of the support part 16A (step S124:Y), the control unit 40 first determines whether or not there are any credits remaining (step S126). If there are no credits remaining (step S126:N), the next game (next prize acquisition operation) cannot be started, so the control unit 40 returns to step S130 and repeats the process thereafter. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are credits remaining (step S126:Y), the control unit 40 waits until the shrinking of the support part 16A is complete (until the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is completed) (step S128). If the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) is started with the support part 16A extended, the player may not be able to lower the gripping part 16B and gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 to the desired position in the next game (the next prize acquisition operation). When it is determined that the retraction of the support part 16A is complete (the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is finished) (step S128:Y), the control unit 40 proceeds to step S146 and executes the process to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation).

[0057] If it is determined in step S126 that there are no credits remaining (step S126:N), the control unit 40 may be configured to display a message on the display unit 44 prompting the player to insert credits and to wait for a predetermined time. If the player inserts credits within the predetermined time, the control unit 40 executes a process to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) after the support unit 16A has finished shrinking.

[0058] Meanwhile, once the support portion 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 has finished shrinking, the control unit 40 starts the subsequent stages of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16 (step S134 in Figure 10). At this time, the control unit 40 repeatedly performs the following: causing the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the subsequent stages of the prize release operation, determining whether or not the next game operation has been performed (whether or not the next game button on the display unit 44 has been pressed) (step S136), and determining whether or not the prize acquisition unit 16 has moved to the standby position and stopped as a result of performing the subsequent stages of the prize release operation (step S140). If it is determined that the next game operation has been performed while the prize acquisition unit 16 is performing the subsequent stages of the prize release operation (step S136:Y), the control unit 40 determines whether or not there are credits remaining (step S138). As described above, if there are no credits remaining (step S138:N), the next game (next prize acquisition operation) cannot be started, so the control unit 40 returns to step S140 and repeats the processing thereafter. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are credits remaining (step S138:Y), the control unit 40 proceeds to step S146 and executes the process to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation).

[0059] If it is determined in step S138 that there are no credits remaining (step S138:N), the control unit 40 may be configured to display a message on the display unit 44 prompting the player to insert credits and to wait for a predetermined time. If the player inserts credits within the predetermined time, the control unit 40 executes the process to start the next game.

[0060] As shown in Figure 11, in the process of starting the next game (the next prize acquisition operation), the control unit 40 first stops the prize release operation (later stage) of the prize acquisition unit 16 (step S146). Then, the control unit 40 causes the prize acquisition unit 16 to perform the operation to release the prize at the current position, opening the gripping claws 16C (step S148), and notifies the player that the game will proceed to the next game (the next prize acquisition operation will begin) (step S150). The notification of proceeding to the next game (the next prize acquisition operation will begin) may be displayed on the display unit 44 by the control unit 40, or it may be performed by sound and light effects via the performance unit. When notified that the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) is about to begin, the control unit 40 returns to step S102 and changes the game state from the second game state of the current prize acquisition operation to the first game state (1-1 game state) of the next prize acquisition operation, and repeats the process described above (execution of the next game or the next prize acquisition operation).

[0061] Furthermore, the acceptance of the next game operation is not limited to operations on the next game button displayed on the display unit 44. For example, when the control unit 40 receives an operation on the operation unit 46 (first operation unit 46A or second operation unit 46B) in the second game state, it may be configured to terminate the current game (current prize acquisition operation) and start the next game (next prize acquisition operation) if the above-mentioned conditions are satisfied (transitioning from the second game state of the current prize acquisition operation to the first game state (1-1 game state) of the next prize acquisition operation).

[0062] Furthermore, the above description has described a case in which the prize acquisition unit 16 is configured to move in the X-axis and Y-axis directions in response to the operation of the operation unit 46 within the storage space 12. However, the prize acquisition unit 16 may also be configured not to move in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, but to extend and retract in the Z-axis direction in response to the operation of the operation unit 46 at a fixed position in the X-axis and Y-axis directions within the storage space 12 to perform the prize capture operation (first game state) and the prize release operation (second game state). In this case, the prize capture operation in the first game state will be the execution of the first and second game states described above, and the prize release operation in the second game state will be the execution of the preceding operation (the operation to retract the support unit 16A) and the subsequent operation to release the prize (the operation to open the gripping claws 16C) described above. Alternatively, in the first game state, the prize acquisition unit 16 may be rotated (the gripping unit 16B and gripping claws 16C are rotated with the support unit 16A as the axis of rotation), thereby allowing the player to determine the direction of the gripping claws 16C.

[0063] Furthermore, the above description has described a configuration in which, during the prize acquisition operation, the prize acquisition unit 16 is configured to extend its support portion 16A and close the gripping claws 16C provided on its gripping portion 16B to grasp the prize 14. However, the control unit 40 may also be configured to perform an operation to scoop up the prize 14 with the prize acquisition unit 16 in response to the operation of the operation unit 46 during the prize acquisition operation, and to drop the prize 14 scooped up from the prize acquisition unit 16 at the drop position in the subsequent stage of the prize release operation in response to the operation of the operation unit 46.

[0064] Furthermore, the above description describes a configuration in which the prize 14 captured by the prize acquisition unit 16 is dropped (released) towards the drop space 18 at the drop position to acquire the prize 14. However, it is also possible to configure the system so that the prize 14 is released at a position within the storage space 12 that is not above the drop space 18 (the prize 14 falls into the storage space 12), and the prize 14 is acquired when it is pushed into the drop space 18 by the released prize 14 and falls.

[0065] (First variation) As described above, in this embodiment, the control unit 40 is configured to notify the player that the next game operation is possible when the game transitions to the second game state, and to terminate the current game (current prize acquisition operation) and execute the next game (next prize acquisition operation) when it receives the next game operation. However, if the player mistakenly performs the next game operation and the next game (next prize acquisition operation) starts, it may cause disadvantage to the player. For example, if the next game operation is performed while the prize 14 is being held by the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16, or while the prize 14 is caught on the gripping claws 16C and lifted up, the gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 will open, which may cause the prize 14 to be dropped (released). A first modified example to prevent such erroneous next game operations by the player will be explained with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 shows the processing in the second game state described above (Figure 10). The same reference numerals are used for the same processing as in Figure 10, and detailed explanations are omitted. Different processing will be explained.

[0066] As described above, the control unit 40 is configured to determine whether or not there are remaining credits (step S126) when it determines that the next game operation has been performed while the support unit 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 is being retracted (while the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is being executed) (step S124:Y). As shown in Figure 12, in this first modified example, when it determines that there are remaining credits (step S126:Y), the control unit 40 displays, for example, a message on the display unit 44 asking whether it is OK to proceed to the next game (the next prize acquisition operation), along with buttons to approve the transition and buttons to not approve the transition, and makes these buttons available for operation (step S127a). The control unit 40 then waits for the completion of the retraction of the support unit 16A, that is, the end of the preliminary stage of the prize release operation (step S128), and when it determines that the retraction is complete (the preliminary stage has ended) (step S128:Y), it determines whether or not the player has approved the transition to the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) (step S129a). If the player presses the button to approve the transition of the display unit 44 and the control unit 40 determines that the transition has been approved (step S129a:Y), the control unit 40 executes the process from step S146 onwards to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation). On the other hand, if the player presses the button to not approve the transition of the display unit 44 and the control unit 40 determines that the transition has not been approved, or that no operation was performed on the display unit 44 before the support unit 16A was completed to shrink (before the end of the previous stage) (step S129a:N), the control unit 40 returns to step S132, stops the shrinking operation of the support unit 16A and terminates, and proceeds to the later stage of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16.

[0067] Furthermore, after the support portion 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 has finished shrinking (after the preliminary stage of the prize release operation has finished), if the control unit 40 determines that the next game operation has been performed while the subsequent stage of the prize release operation is being executed (step S136:Y), it determines whether there are any remaining credits (step S138). If it determines that there are still credits remaining (step S138:Y), it displays a message on the display unit 44, for example, asking whether it is OK to proceed to the next game (next prize acquisition operation), along with buttons to approve the transition and buttons to deny the transition, and makes these buttons available for operation (step S139a). The control unit 40 then determines whether the player has approved the transition to the next game (next prize acquisition operation) (step S139b). If the player has pressed the button on the display unit 44 to approve the transition and the control unit 40 determines that the transition has been approved (step S139b:Y), the control unit 40 executes the process from step S146 onwards to start the next game (next prize acquisition operation). On the other hand, if the player presses the button on the display unit 44 to not approve the transition and the transition is not approved, or if the control unit 40 determines that no operation is performed on the display unit 44 within a predetermined time after the button for confirming the transition to the next game is displayed on the display unit 44 (step S139b:N), the control unit 40 returns to step S140 and continues to execute the latter part of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16. When the next game operation is performed, the control unit 40 continues to accept buttons to approve and not approve the transition to the next game until the prize acquisition unit 16 enters a standby state (until the latter part of the prize release operation is completed and the unit enters a standby state). If the button to approve the transition is pressed during this time, the control unit 40 proceeds to the process of starting the next game (next prize acquisition operation). If the button to not approve the transition is pressed, or if the player does not perform any operation on the display unit 44 until the latter part of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16 is completed, the control unit 40 may determine that the transition to the next game (next prize acquisition operation) was not approved and continue to execute the latter part of the prize release operation.

[0068] Thus, in the first modified example, when the next game operation is performed, the control unit 40 confirms with the player whether or not to authorize the execution of the next game (the next prize acquisition operation). Therefore, even if the player mistakenly performs the next game operation, the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) will not be executed until this operation is authenticated.

[0069] (Second variation) In the first modification described above, a case was explained in which the system is configured to require the player to approve the transition to the next game (transition to the next prize acquisition operation) in order to prevent the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) from being executed due to an incorrect next game operation by the player. In the second modification, a prize detection unit 78 is provided that detects whether the prize acquisition unit 16 is grasping the prize 14 (the prize acquisition unit 16 has captured the prize 14) and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 40. The control unit 40 determines whether the prize acquisition unit 16 is grasping the prize 14 based on the detection signal from the prize detection unit 78, and if it determines that the prize 14 is being grasped, the system is configured so that the system does not transition to the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) even if the player performs the next game operation. This case will be explained using Figure 13. Note that Figure 13 shows the processing in the second game state described above (Figure 10), and the same reference numerals are used for the same processing as in Figure 10, and detailed explanations are omitted, while different processing will be explained.

[0070] The prize detection unit 78 can be configured, for example, as shown in Figure 5, to detect prizes 14 that are being held by the gripping claws 16C or are caught on the gripping claws 16C, and is provided on the gripping part 16B of the prize acquisition unit 16. As an example of such a prize detection unit 78, it may be configured to detect prizes 14 by emitting light such as infrared rays downward from the lower surface of the gripping part 16B and receiving and detecting the light reflected by the prizes 14 that are being held by the gripping claws 16C or are caught on the prizes 14. Alternatively, the prize detection unit 78 may be configured to include a camera that takes an image downward from the lower surface of the gripping part 16B, and to detect prizes 14 that are being held (or caught on) by the gripping claws 16C by performing image analysis on the image from this camera.

[0071] Alternatively, the prize detection unit 78 may be configured to detect changes in the total weight of the gripping part 16B and the gripping claws 16C, and to detect when the total weight of the gripping part 16B and the gripping claws 16C increases, indicating that the gripping claws 16C are gripping (or hooking) the prize 14.

[0072] Alternatively, the prize detection unit 78 may be configured to include a camera capable of capturing images of the prize acquisition unit 16 within the storage space 12, and to detect the prize 14 being grasped (or caught) by the gripping claws 16C by performing image analysis on the images from this camera.

[0073] Alternatively, the prize detection unit 78 may be configured to include a sensor (for example, a contact sensor) at the tip of the gripping claw 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 that detects the prize 14 being held, and to detect the prize 14 using this sensor. Furthermore, if the gripping claw 16C is holding the prize 14, the gripping claw 16C will not close completely even if the prize acquisition unit 16 is made to perform the action of gripping the prize 14. Also, if the prize 14 is caught on the tip of the gripping claw 16C, the gripping claw 16C may be pulled in the direction of opening due to the weight of the prize 14. Therefore, the prize detection unit 78 may be configured to include a sensor that detects whether or not the gripping claw 16C is completely closed, and to detect the prize 14 using the output of this sensor.

[0074] Similar to the first modified example, the control unit 40 is configured to determine whether credits remain (step S126) when it determines that the next game operation has been performed during the retraction operation of the support unit 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 (while the preceding stage of the prize release operation is being executed) (step S124:Y). As shown in Figure 13, in this second modified example, if it determines that credits remain (step S126:Y), the control unit 40 waits for the completion of the retraction of the support unit 16A, that is, for the completion of the preceding stage of the prize release operation (step S128). When it determines that the retraction is complete (the preceding stage has ended) (step S128:Y), it determines whether the prize detection unit 78 has detected the prize 14 (step S129b). If the prize detection unit 78 does not detect the prize 14 (step S129b:N), the control unit 40 executes the process from step S146 onward to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation). On the other hand, if the prize detection unit 78 detects the prize 14 (step S129b:Y), the control unit 40 returns to step S132, stops the retraction operation of the support unit 16A, and proceeds to the subsequent stage of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16.

[0075] Furthermore, after the support portion 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 has finished shrinking (after the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is completed), if the control unit 40 determines that the next game operation has been performed during the execution of the later stage of the prize release operation (step S136:Y), it determines whether there are any remaining credits (step S138). If it determines that there are remaining credits (step S138:Y), it determines whether the prize detection unit 78 has detected the prize 14 (step S139c). If the prize detection unit 78 has not detected the prize 14 (step S139c:N), the control unit 40 executes the process from step S146 onwards to start the next game (the next prize acquisition operation). On the other hand, if the prize detection unit 78 has detected the prize 14 (step S139c:Y), the control unit 40 returns to step S140 and continues the execution of the later stage of the prize release operation by the prize acquisition unit 16.

[0076] In the above description, the control unit 40 is configured not to execute the next game (next prize acquisition operation) when the prize detection unit 78 detects the prize 14 (it continues the second game state of the current prize acquisition operation and does not transition to the first game state (1st-1 game state) of the next prize acquisition operation). However, when the next game operation is performed and the prize detection unit 78 detects the prize 14, the control unit 40 may be configured to display a message on the display unit 44 indicating that the prize 14 has been detected and asking whether it is OK to proceed to the next game (next prize acquisition operation), as well as buttons to approve the transition and buttons to reject the transition, and to accept operations on these buttons. In this case, the control unit 40 is configured to proceed to the next game (next prize acquisition operation) when it determines that the player has pressed the button to approve, and not proceed to the next game (next prize acquisition operation) when it determines that the player has pressed the button to reject the transition.

[0077] Thus, in this second modified example, when the next game operation is performed, the prize detection unit 78 detects the prize 14 that is being held (or caught) by the gripping claw 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16. Therefore, if the prize 14 is detected, even if the player mistakenly performs the next game operation, the next game (the next prize acquisition operation) will not be executed.

[0078] Furthermore, either the first or second modified form may be implemented in the device 10, or both may be implemented in the device 10.

[0079] Furthermore, the system may be configured to allow or disallow the next game operation by the player as described above (permission or disallowance of the next game operation). As described above, when an operator inserts the correct setting key into the key slot 72, the control unit 40 switches the control state to setting mode. When in setting mode, the control unit 40 displays information and menus on the display unit 44 for setting the device 10. Since the display unit 44 is a touch panel, the operator can operate these menus to make the desired settings. In this setting mode, the system can set whether or not to allow the next game operation.

[0080] Furthermore, although the above-described device 10 was described in which the prize acquisition unit 16 moves in the first direction and the second direction, the X-axis and Y-axis, and extends and retracts in the third direction, the Z-axis, to capture the prize 14, for example, the device may be configured such that the first direction is the X-axis (or Y-axis) and the second direction is the Z-axis, and the prize acquisition unit 16 moves in the X-axis (or Y-axis) and Z-axis directions, and furthermore, the third direction is the Y-axis (or X-axis), and the device extends and retracts in the Y-axis (or X-axis) to capture the prize 14.

[0081] Furthermore, although the above-described device 10 was explained in the case where one prize acquisition operation is performed per game (one credit), it can also be configured to allow the prize acquisition operation to be repeatedly performed until prize 14 is acquired within a predetermined time in one game (one credit), or to allow the prize acquisition operation to be performed any number of times within a predetermined time in one game (one credit). In this case, whether or not the next game operation can be performed and the next prize acquisition operation can be initiated is determined not by whether or not there are remaining credits (steps S126 and S138 in Figure 10), but by whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. Also, in the configuration in which the prize acquisition operation can be repeatedly performed until prize 14 is acquired, when prize 14 is acquired (when the acquisition of prize 14 is detected by the detection signal of the passage sensor 74), the game ends after waiting for the prize acquisition operation to finish.

[0082] (Features and effects of this embodiment) The following summarizes the characteristic configuration and effects of the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0083] In the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment, when the control unit 40 is in the second game state and receives a predetermined operation (next game operation) to the operation unit (display unit 44 and operation unit 46), it is configured to cancel at least a part of the prize release operation that constitutes the currently executing prize acquisition operation after receiving the predetermined operation, and to transition to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation from the point of cancellation. In this way, when transitioning to the second game state, the control unit 40 makes it possible to receive the next game operation, so that when the prize acquisition unit 16 is unable to capture the prize 14, the player can execute the next prize acquisition operation without waiting for the current prize acquisition operation to finish, and the player is not subjected to the stress of not being able to perform the next prize acquisition operation until the current prize acquisition operation is finished. Furthermore, with this configuration, the player can start the next prize acquisition operation at or near the position targeted in the current prize acquisition operation (the position of the prize acquisition unit 16 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions), which may make it easier for the player to aim (position) the prize acquisition unit 16 at the prize 14. In addition, when the next game operation is performed, at least a portion of the operations from that operation onward of the currently executed prize acquisition operation is omitted, thus shortening the time required for one game (one prize acquisition operation) and improving the operating rate of the device 10.

[0084] Furthermore, in the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment, if the next game operation is performed when the support portion 16A of the prize acquisition unit 16 is retracted in the second game state (the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is being executed), the control unit 40 can be configured not to proceed to the next prize acquisition operation (the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation) until the retraction of the support portion 16A is completed (until the preliminary stage of the prize release operation is completed). If the next prize acquisition operation is started while the retraction of the support portion 16A is not completed (the support portion 16A is extended), the gripping portion 16B and gripping claws 16C cannot be stopped above their current position in the next prize acquisition operation. In other words, the player may not be able to lower the gripping portion 16B and gripping claws 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16 to the desired position. Therefore, the device is configured not to proceed to the next prize acquisition operation until the retraction of the support portion 16A is completed.

[0085] Furthermore, the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment can be configured such that when the next game operation is performed in the second game state, it does not transition to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation, but instead the display unit 44, which is the notification unit, notifies that it will transition to the next prize acquisition operation (displaying a message asking whether it is OK to transition to the next prize acquisition operation, and buttons to approve the transition and buttons to not approve the transition), and continues the execution of the current prize acquisition operation (second game state). When the display unit 44, which is the operation unit, receives an operation to approve the transition to the next prize acquisition operation (when the approval button is pressed by the player), it transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation. For example, if the player accidentally performs the next game operation while the prize acquisition unit 16 is capturing the prize 14, there is a possibility that the prize 14 will fall from the prize acquisition unit 16 (the gripping claws 16C will open and drop the prize 14). However, with this configuration, even if the next game operation is performed, the player's intention is confirmed (confirming that the approval button has been pressed), thereby preventing the transition to the next prize acquisition operation due to the player's erroneous operation.

[0086] Furthermore, the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment has a prize detection unit 78 that detects when the prize acquisition unit 16 has captured the prize 14 (the prize acquisition unit 16 is grasping the prize 14 (or the prize 14 is caught on the gripping claw 16C of the prize acquisition unit 16)), and the control unit 40 can be configured so that when the prize 14 is detected by the prize detection unit 78, the device does not proceed to the next prize acquisition operation even if the next game operation is performed. This configuration makes it possible to prevent the device from proceeding to the next prize acquisition operation due to a player error when the prize acquisition unit 16 has captured the prize 14, causing the prize 14 to be dropped (or the prize 14 to be released in a place other than above the drop space 18 (not the drop position)).

[0087] Furthermore, the control unit 40 of the prize acquisition game device 10 according to this embodiment may be configured such that, when the next game operation is performed and the prize detection unit 78 detects the prize 14, the display unit 44, which is the notification unit, notifies that the game will proceed to the next prize acquisition operation (displaying a message to confirm whether it is OK to proceed to the next prize acquisition operation, and buttons to approve the transition and buttons to not approve the transition), and continues the second game state. When the display unit 44, which is the operation unit, performs an operation to approve the transition to the next prize acquisition operation (when the approval button is operated by the player), the game proceeds to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation. This configuration prevents the aforementioned erroneous operation by the player, and even if the prize detection unit 78 has mistakenly detected the prize 14, or if the prize 14 has been captured, the game can proceed to the next prize acquisition operation if the player wishes to perform the next prize acquisition operation. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 10 Prize-winning game machine 12 Containment space 16. Prize Acquisition Department 16A Support part 16B Gripping part 18 Falling Space 40 Control Unit 44 Display Unit (Operation Unit, Notification Unit) 46 Control section 78 Prize detection unit

Claims

1. A prize acquisition game device that realizes a game in which at least a portion of the prizes stored in a storage space are dropped into a drop space provided below the storage space to be acquired, The prize acquisition department, A control unit that receives input from the player, It includes a control unit that controls the operation of the prize acquisition unit, The prize acquisition operation controlled by the control unit is as follows: When an operation is received by the aforementioned control unit, a first game state is entered in which the prize acquisition unit, which is in a standby state, is instructed to perform a prize acquisition operation, including the operation of the prize acquisition unit to acquire the prize. The system includes a second game state in which the prize acquisition unit performs a prize release operation, which includes releasing the prize, and further, the prize acquisition unit is put into a standby state. When the control unit is in the second game state and receives a predetermined operation to the operation unit, it cancels at least a portion of the prize release operation that occurs after the predetermined operation is received, and transitions to the first game state of the next prize acquisition operation from the point of cancellation. A game machine where you can win prizes.

2. The aforementioned prize acquisition unit is: A support portion that is extendable and retractable in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, It has a gripping part attached to the tip of the support part, which performs the action of grasping the prize, The control unit, In the first game state, when an operation is received on the control unit, the support unit is extended, and then the gripping unit is made to perform an action to capture the prize. In the second game state, after the support portion is retracted, the gripping portion is made to release the prize, and the prize acquisition portion is configured to be in a standby state. In the second game state, if the predetermined operation is received on the operating unit while the support unit is being retracted, the game will transition to the first game state when the retraction of the support unit is completed. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

3. It has a broadcasting department that disseminates information, When the control unit receives the predetermined operation to the operation unit in the second game state, Without transitioning to the first game state, the notification unit notifies that the player will proceed to the next prize acquisition operation, and the second game state continues. When the aforementioned control unit performs an operation to approve the transition to the next prize acquisition operation, the game transitions to the first game state. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

4. The prize acquisition unit has a prize detection unit that detects when the prize has been captured, When the control unit receives the predetermined operation from the operation unit in the second game state and detects that the prize detection unit has captured the prize, it does not transition to the first game state and continues in the second game state. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

5. The information dissemination department, The prize acquisition unit includes a prize detection unit that detects when the prize acquisition unit has captured the prize, When the control unit receives the predetermined operation to the operation unit in the second game state, When the prize detection unit detects that the prize has been captured, the game does not proceed to the first game state, and the notification unit notifies that the game will proceed to the next prize acquisition operation, thereby continuing the second game state. When the aforementioned control unit performs an operation to approve the transition to the next prize acquisition operation, the game transitions to the first game state. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

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