Gaming machine

Abstract

There is a need to improve the appeal of the way the game balls move. [Solution] In the gaming machine 10 disclosed herein, a first right-side channel R3 and a second right-side channel R4 are provided in the right-side gaming area R2, separated to the left of the first right-side channel R3 by a resin wall 22, and the game balls that are shot to the right flow down through the first right-side channel R3 and the second right-side channel R4. The gaming machine 10 is also equipped with a second starting prize entry opening 15 into which only game balls that have entered the first right-side channel R3 can enter, and a third starting prize entry opening 16 into which only game balls that have entered the second right-side channel R4 can enter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a gaming machine.

Background Art

[0002] As a conventional gaming machine, there is known one including a flow path through which a game ball driven into the right end across the game area flows down.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-described conventional gaming machine, there is a demand for improving the tendency of the flow of the game ball.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first aspect of the invention made to solve the above problems is a gaming machine including a first flow path through which a game ball reaching the right end across the game area flows down, and a second flow path provided on the left side with a resin wall interposed therebetween with respect to the first flow path, through which a game ball that has not reached the right end of the game area can flow down.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] In a conventional gaming machine, the game balls driven to the right all reach the right end and enter the same flow path, but in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, in addition to the first flow path through which the game balls reaching the right end flow down, a second flow path is provided in front of it, so that the game balls driven to the right are divided and flow down through the first flow path and the second flow path, and the tendency of the flow of the game balls is improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] Front view of a gaming machine according to the first embodiment [Figure 2] Front view of the game board [Figure 3] Front view of the right-side gaming area [Figure 4] Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a gaming machine. [Figure 5] Front view of the game board [Figure 6] Front view of the game board [Figure 7] Front view of the right-side game area according to the second embodiment [Figure 8] Front view of the game board according to the third embodiment [Figure 9] Schematic diagram of the area near the lifting device [Figure 10] Front view of the game board according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 11] Front view of a modified game board [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figure 1, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is a pachinko gaming machine, and its front side is covered by a front frame 10Z, through which the game area R1 of the game board 11 can be seen. Above the glass window 10W, speakers 10S are provided at both corners. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, "right" and "left" refer to the "right" and "left" when viewing the gaming machine 10 from the front.

[0009] Below the glass window 10W in the front frame 10Z, an upper tray 27A and a lower tray 27B are provided in two tiers, and an operating handle 28 is provided to the right of the lower tray 27B. When the operating handle 28 is rotated, the game balls stored in the upper tray 27A are launched sequentially toward the game area R1. At this time, the greater the amount of rotation of the operating handle 28, the greater the force with which the game balls are launched.

[0010] The upper tray 27A is equipped with an operation button 29A that can be pressed down by the player, and a directional pad 29B that can be operated up, down, left, and right.

[0011] As shown in Figure 3, the game area R1 is formed by being surrounded on all four sides by guide rails 12 that protrude from the front of the game board 11. A game board display window 11H is formed through the center of the game area R1, and a display device 13 faces this game board display window 11H from the back side of the game board 11. The display device 13 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal module, and its front surface is a display screen 13G that displays game-related effects. The display screen 13G displays the judgment result of the special symbol win / loss determination, which will be described later, and effects that suggest that judgment result.

[0012] A display decorative frame 23 is provided at the center of the front of the game board 11, surrounding the display screen 13G. The display decorative frame 23 protrudes from the front of the game board 11 and is configured to prevent game balls flowing down the game area R1 from entering the inside of the display decorative frame 23. The display decorative frame 23 is provided on a decorative frame member 21 that is attached to the game board display window 11H from the front side of the game board 11. The decorative frame member 21 will be described later.

[0013] Below the display frame 23 is a first starting prize entry opening 14, and to the right of the display frame 23 are two starting gates 18, a second starting prize entry opening 15, and a third starting prize entry opening 16. To the right of the first starting prize entry opening 14 is a large prize entry opening 17. To the left of the first starting prize entry opening 14, along the guide rail 12, are multiple general prize entry openings 20. Any game balls that do not enter any of the aforementioned prize entry openings 14, 15, 16, 17, and 20 are taken into the out opening 19 at the lower end of the game area R1 and discharged from the game machine 10 through an unillustrated discharge passage.

[0014] Next, each required part will be described in more detail. First, the general winning opening 20 has a pocket structure and is open to a size that allows one game ball to enter at a time. When a game ball enters (wins) the general winning opening 20, the game ball is taken to the back side of the game board 11. For example, five prize balls are paid out to the upper tray 27A for each ball that enters.

[0015] Each start gate 18 has a gate-shaped structure through which a game ball can pass by diving. When a game ball passes through the start gate 18, a normal symbol win / loss determination is made to determine whether to open the second start winning opening 15 and the third start winning opening 16. When distinguishing between the two start gates 18, the start gate 18 for the second start winning opening 15 is referred to as the "second-use start gate 18A", and the start gate 18 for the third start winning opening 16 is referred to as the "third-use start gate 18B".

[0016] In this embodiment, no prize balls are paid out even if a game ball passes through the second-use start gate 18A, while one prize ball is paid out to the upper tray 27A when a game ball passes through the third-use start gate 18B.

[0017] The first start winning opening 14 has a so-called pocket structure and is open upward to a size that allows one game ball to enter at a time. The second start winning opening 15 is open forward to a size that allows one game ball to enter at a time. Normally, the front is blocked by the opening / closing door 15T, so that the entry (winning) of the game ball is restricted. The opening / closing door 15T rotates around the lower end when the result of the normal symbol win / loss determination due to the passing of the ball through the second-use start gate 18A is a win, and is tilted forward for a predetermined time, and the second start winning opening 15 is opened. The third start winning opening 16 is open upward with a width for about two to three game balls. Normally, the upper part is blocked by the opening / closing door 16T, so that the entry (winning) of the game ball is restricted. The upper surface of the opening / closing door 16T allows the game ball to roll, and when the result of the normal symbol win / loss determination due to the passing of the ball through the third-use start gate 18B is a win, it slides backward, and the third start winning opening 16 is opened for a predetermined time.

[0018] When a game ball enters (wins) one of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 1 ball) are dispensed into the upper tray 27A, and a special symbol win / loss determination is made. The result of this determination is displayed on the display screen 13G of the display device 13. Specifically, three special symbols 13A, 13B, and 13C are displayed side by side in the center of the display screen 13G. Each of these special symbols 13A to 13C consists of multiple types, such as numbers or letters, and normally, a predetermined type is displayed for each of the special symbols 13A to 13C. When a game ball enters one of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, these three special symbols 13A to 13C are displayed in a variable manner (for example, by scrolling vertically), and after a predetermined time has elapsed, they are displayed in the order of left, right, and center. The system then notifies the result of the special symbol win / loss determination based on the combination of special symbols 13A to 13C that have stopped. Specifically, if all of special symbols 13A to 13C are the same symbol (doubles), it indicates a win, and if the combination of special symbols 13A to 13C is anything other than doubles, it indicates a loss.

[0019] If the result of the special symbol matching judgment is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed in which the large prize slot 17 is opened. Specifically, the large prize slot 17 opens upwards with a width of about 4 to 5 game balls, and normally the top is closed by an opening / closing door 17T, thereby restricting the entry (winning) of game balls. The opening / closing door 17T is designed so that game balls can roll on its top surface, and when a jackpot game is played, it slides backward for a predetermined amount of time, allowing many game balls to enter the large prize slot 17. When game balls enter the large prize slot 17, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) are paid out as prize balls into the upper tray 27A. In a jackpot game, a round game is executed a number of times corresponding to the jackpot game being played in which the large prize slot 17 is opened a predetermined number of times. A round of play ends when a predetermined maximum number of game balls enter the large prize slot 17, or when a predetermined round of play time has elapsed.

[0020] Furthermore, the second starting gate 18A and the third starting gate 18B are equipped with built-in detection switches (not shown) for detecting the passage of game balls. The detection switch in the second starting gate 18A corresponds to the "detection unit for not distributing game balls," and the detection switch in the third starting gate 18B corresponds to the "detection unit for special distribution." In addition, behind each of the prize winning slots 14, 15, 16, 17, and 20, there are detection switches (not shown; corresponding to the "distribution detection unit") for detecting game balls that have entered each prize winning slot 14, 15, 16, 17, and 20.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the left game area R5, located to the left of the display and decorative frame 23 within the game area R1, is equipped with multiple nails and a windmill 25. Furthermore, a stage 26 is provided at the lower edge of the display and decorative frame 23, which can receive and roll some of the game balls flowing down the left game area R5. The game balls rolling on the stage 26 are discharged from three outlets 26A located in the center of the left-right direction and continue to flow down the front surface of the game board 11.

[0022] Then, when the player fires the game balls weakly so as not to exceed the display frame 23, known as "left-handed shooting," the fired game balls flow down the left-side game area R5, some enter the first starting prize entry point 14 or the general prize entry point 20, and the rest head towards the out entry point 19.

[0023] Next, we will describe in detail the right-side game area R2, which is to the right of the display and decorative frame 23 within the game area R1, including the second starting prize entry point 15 and the third starting prize entry point 16. As shown in Figure 3, the right-side wall 23R of the display and decorative frame 23 in this embodiment extends parallel to the vertical direction overall, and the right-side game area R1 is formed between the right-side wall 23R of the display and decorative frame 23 and the right-side portion of the guide rail 12, with a width of about 1 / 3 to 2 / 5 of the width of the game board. A resin wall 22 is placed in the center of the width direction of the right-side game area R1, and the right-side game area R2 is divided into two flow paths R3 and R4.

[0024] The resin wall 22 has an upper end wall 22A, a left side wall 22B, a right side wall 22C, and an arc-shaped wall 22D. The upper end wall 22A of the resin wall 22 is bent upward, and its top is positioned to the lower right of the upper right end of the display decorative frame 23. The left side wall 22B extends downward from the left end of the upper end wall 22A. The right side wall 23R of the display decorative frame 23 and the left side wall 22B of the resin wall 22 meander from side to side, maintaining a width that allows one game ball to pass through. The arc-shaped wall 22D has a roughly semi-circular shape that bulges to the right, and its upper end is connected to the lower end of the left side wall 22B. The upper and lower ends of the arc-shaped wall 22D are roughly aligned vertically, and the distance between them is about the length of 4 to 6 game balls.

[0025] The right-side wall 22C extends from the right end of the upper end wall 22A along the right-side portion of the guide rail 12, then bends to the left and connects near the right end of the arc-shaped wall 22D. The right-side play area R2 is divided into two parts: the right side of the resin wall 22 is the first right-side flow path R3, and the left side is the second right-side flow path R4.

[0026] The first right-side channel R3 is the width of one game ball up to the bend in the right-side wall 22C, and is wider below that. The second starting gate 18A, described above, is located directly below the exit of the one-ball-width section, and all game balls that enter the first right-side channel R3 pass through it. Two pins are placed side by side directly below the second starting gate 18A, and the game balls that pass through the second starting gate 18A are distributed to the left and right. The second starting prize entry opening 15, described above, is located to the left of these two pins.

[0027] Next, the second right-side channel R4 will be described. As mentioned above, the second right-side channel R4 meanders to the lower end of the left-side wall 22B of the resin wall 22, with a width of one game ball. The third starting gate 18B is located midway along this one-ball-width passage. Below the lower end of the left-side wall 22B of the resin wall 22, there is an inclined wall 24 that extends linearly downward to the right. The inclined wall 24 is located near the upper end of the space between the arc-shaped wall 22D and the right-side wall 23R of the display and decorative frame 23, and the upper end of the arc-shaped wall 22D and the right side of the inclined wall 24 face each other with a width that allows one game ball to pass through at a time. The inclined wall 24 extends to the right from the right-side wall 23R of the display and decorative frame 23, and a game ball can pass through the space between its right end and the arc-shaped wall 22D.

[0028] Below the arc-shaped wall 22D is a prize-winning projection 16A equipped with a third starting prize-winning opening 16. The prize-winning projection 16A has an upper wall 16B and a lower wall 16C that extend downward to the right. The left end of the upper wall 16B is positioned about 2 to 3 game ball lengths away from the right side wall 23R of the display decorative frame 23, and the space between them is the third starting prize-winning opening 16. The upper surface of the opening / closing door 16T and the upper surface of the upper wall 16B are almost flush. The lower wall 16C extends from the right side wall 23R of the display decorative frame 23, and its right end curves upward and connects to the right end of the upper wall 16B. The right end of the prize-winning projection 16A is positioned below the second starting prize-winning opening 15 of the first right-side flow path R3, and the upper wall 16B of the prize-winning projection 16A is capable of receiving game balls that have passed in front of the second starting prize-winning opening 15 and directing them downward to the right.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, below the prize-winning projection 16A is a large prize-winning projection 17A equipped with a large prize-winning opening 17. The large prize-winning projection 17A is located at the lower right end of the game area R1, and its upper right portion is the large prize-winning opening 17. The opening and closing door 17T that opens and closes the large prize-winning opening 17 is angled downwards to the left, and the large prize-winning projection 17A has an upper wall 17B that extends to the left on the extension of the opening and closing door 17T, and a side wall 17C that hangs down from the left end of the upper wall 17B.

[0030] Then, when a player performs a so-called "right-handed shot," which involves launching the game ball with sufficient force to exceed the display frame 23, the launched game ball passes through the right-hand guide passage R6 (corresponding to the "upper edge passage") between the upper edge of the display frame 23 (corresponding to the "passage structure") and the upper guide rail 12 (corresponding to the "upper edge rail"), and reaches the right-hand game area R2. Here, the game ball launched with relatively strong force bounces off the buffer member 11K at the upper right end of the game area R1, collides with the upper end wall 22A, and is randomly distributed between the first right-hand passage R3 and the second right-hand passage R4. On the other hand, the game ball launched with relatively weak force and rolls to the right along the upper right surface of the display frame 23 is more likely to be caught by the left-hand portion of the upper end wall 22A rather than the top, and is more likely to enter the second right-hand passage R4.

[0031] Alternatively, the upper right end of the display frame 23 may be positioned further to the right, causing the game balls rolling on the top surface of the display frame 23 to collide with the top of the upper end wall 22A, thereby configuring the system to randomly distribute the game balls regardless of launch strength. Alternatively, the upper end wall 22A of the resin wall 22 may be positioned further upward, so that almost all weakly struck game balls enter the second right-side channel R4, and all game balls that collide with the buffer member 11K enter the first right-side channel R3, thus configuring the system to distribute the game balls between the first right-side channel R3 and the second right-side channel R4 depending on the launch strength (see the top of Figure 5). In this case, the right guidance passage R6 branches into the first right-side channel R3 and the second right-side channel R4, with the first right-side channel R3 extending in an arc from the right guidance passage R6, and the second right-side channel R4 extending downward relative to the right guidance passage R6.

[0032] All game balls that enter the first right-side channel R3 pass through the second starting gate 18A and are then sorted to the left or right by the nails below it. Game balls sorted to the left are caught by the opening / closing door 15T and enter the second starting prize opening 15 when the second starting prize opening 15 is open, and when the second starting prize opening 15 is closed, they flow down in front of the opening / closing door 15T and either continue straight or collide with the upper wall 16B of the prize projection 16A before heading to the main prize opening 17. Game balls sorted to the right flow straight down towards the main prize opening 17. Only game balls that enter the first right-side channel R3 can enter the second starting prize opening 15.

[0033] All game balls that enter the second right-side channel R4 pass through the third starting gate 18B and are then caught by the inclined wall 24. After that, the game balls roll to the right along the inclined wall 24, are caught on the inner surface of the arc-shaped wall 22D, and then move to the left while drawing an arc along the inner surface of the arc-shaped wall 22D, flowing down toward the third starting prize entry opening 16. In other words, the arc-shaped wall 22D catches the game balls that have passed through the inclined wall 24 on its inner surface, changes the linear motion of the game balls to circular motion, and guides the game balls in the opposite direction to the direction of their movement on the inclined wall 24.

[0034] Then, the game ball that has finished rolling along the arc-shaped wall 22D enters the third starting prize opening 16 when it is open, and when the third starting prize opening 16 is closed, it rolls to the right along the upper surface of the opening / closing door 16T and the upper wall 16B, heading towards the large prize opening 17. Only game balls that have entered the second right-side flow path R4 can enter the third starting prize opening 16.

[0035] All game balls that enter the first right channel R3 and do not enter the second starting prize entry opening 15, and all game balls that enter the second right channel R4 and do not enter the third starting prize entry opening 16, head towards the large prize entry opening 17. When the large prize entry opening 17 is open, the balls enter the large prize entry opening 17, and when the large prize entry opening 17 is closed, the balls roll to the left along the upper surface of the opening / closing door 17T and the upper wall 17B before falling and heading towards the out opening 19.

[0036] Now, in the game machine 10, there are two types of jackpots: those with special bonuses and those without. In the case of a jackpot with a bonus, after the jackpot game, the game transitions to a probability variation state where the probability of winning through the special bonus symbol determination is higher than in the normal state. If a jackpot without a bonus is won in the probability variation state, the game transitions back to the normal state after the jackpot game.

[0037] Furthermore, if a game ball enters one of the starting entry points 14, 15, or 16 during a special symbol variation or jackpot game, information related to the special symbol judgment caused by that entry (specifically, the display of the special symbol judgment result and the resulting symbol variation) is held in reserve up to a predetermined maximum number of reserves (for example, 4). When the ongoing symbol variation or jackpot game ends, one reserve is consumed, and the reserved symbol variation and result display are shown.

[0038] Furthermore, in the probability variation state, the above-mentioned determination of whether the regular symbols will result in a win is more likely to occur than in the normal state, and the opening time of the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16 is longer. As a result, the ease with which game balls enter the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16 differs between the normal state and the probability variation state. In addition, the probability of drawing a win or loss for the regular symbols differs between the second starting gate 18A and the third starting gate 18B, and the opening times also differ between the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16, so the ease with which balls enter in the probability variation state also differs between the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16.

[0039] Specifically, under normal conditions, the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16 are rarely opened or are open for an extremely short time, making it difficult for game balls to enter. On the other hand, in the probability variation state, if game balls continue to enter the first right channel R3 (described later), approximately 6 to 8 balls per minute will enter the second starting entry point 15, and if game balls continue to enter the second right channel R4 (described later), approximately 10 to 12 balls per minute will enter the third starting entry point 16. The first starting entry point 14 will accept approximately 4 to 5 game balls per minute if game balls continue to enter the left game area R5, regardless of the game state.

[0040] Furthermore, the probability of winning in the special symbol win / loss determination in the normal state is 1 / 120, regardless of which of the starting entry points 14, 15, or 16 the ball enters. On the other hand, in the probability variation state, the probability of winning in the special symbol win / loss determination resulting from the ball entering the first starting entry point 14 is 1 / 20, the probability of winning in the special symbol win / loss determination resulting from the ball entering the second starting entry point 15 is 1 / 40, and the probability of winning in the special symbol win / loss determination resulting from the ball entering the third starting entry point 16 is 1 / 20.

[0041] Furthermore, there are two types of jackpots: a 2-round jackpot, where two rounds of gameplay are played in a single jackpot game, and a 16-round jackpot, where 16 rounds of gameplay are played in a single jackpot game. For jackpots resulting from balls entering the first starting entry point 14 and jackpots resulting from balls entering the third starting entry point 16, the probability of a 2-round jackpot is 4 / 5 and the probability of a 16-round jackpot is 1 / 5. For jackpots resulting from balls entering the second starting entry point 15, the probability of a 2-round jackpot is 1 / 5 and the probability of a 16-round jackpot is 4 / 5.

[0042] Next, the gameplay flow of the gaming machine 10 will be explained. At the start of the game, the game state is the normal state. In the normal state, it is difficult to get balls into the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16, so players shoot to the left, aiming for the first starting entry point 14. If the lottery result is a jackpot with a bonus, the game state will change to a probability variation state after the jackpot game ends. In the probability variation state, it is easier to get balls into the second starting entry point 15 and the third starting entry point 16 than the first starting entry point 14, so players shoot to the right.

[0043] In conventional gaming machines, all game balls shot to the right reach the rightmost point and enter the same flow path. However, in the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the right-side gaming area R2 is provided with a first right-side flow path R3 and a second right-side flow path R4 located to the left of the first right-side flow path R3, separated by a resin wall 22. As a result, game balls shot to the right split into the first right-side flow path R3 and the second right-side flow path R4, improving the visual appeal of the game ball flow.

[0044] When a game ball enters the second right channel R4, it passes through the third start gate 18B and is awarded one prize ball. Then, approximately 10 to 12 balls per minute enter the third start prize entry point 16, and a special symbol win / loss determination is made with a probability of 1 / 20. If a jackpot is hit in this special symbol win / loss determination, there is a 4 / 5 chance of a 2-round jackpot game and a 1 / 5 chance of a 16-round jackpot game.

[0045] On the other hand, if a game ball enters the first right-side channel R3, no prize balls are awarded even if it passes through the second start gate 18A. Instead, approximately 6 to 8 balls per minute enter the second start prize entry point 15, and a special symbol win / loss determination is made with a probability of 1 / 40. If a jackpot is determined in this special symbol win / loss determination, there is a 1 / 5 chance of a 2-round jackpot game, and a 4 / 5 chance of a 16-round jackpot game.

[0046] In other words, entering the first right-side channel R3 makes it relatively difficult to hit the jackpot, but if you do hit the jackpot, there is a high probability of a 16-round jackpot game. Entering the second right-side channel R4 allows you to play without losing your ball count and makes it relatively easy to hit the jackpot, but even if you do hit the jackpot, a 16-round jackpot game is less likely. To put it another way, the first right-side channel R3 is less likely to award game balls than the second right-side channel R4, but when game balls are awarded, there is a higher probability of awarding more game balls than the second right-side channel R4.

[0047] Therefore, players who want to aim for a win with a high payout (16-round jackpot), even if the probability of it occurring is low, should hope that the game ball enters the first right-side channel R3. Players who want to play for a long time by reliably getting one prize ball, or players who want to hit wins frequently (2-round jackpots), even if the payout per win is small, should hope that the game ball enters the second right-side channel R4. Therefore, it can be interesting to see whether the signal is distributed to the first right channel R3 or the second right channel R4.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, game balls that reach the buffer member 11K at the right end are randomly distributed to the first right channel R3 and the second right channel R4. On the other hand, if a game ball rolls along the upper right surface of the display decorative frame 23 without reaching that point, it is more likely to enter the second right channel R4. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the launch strength depending on whether the player wants the game ball to enter the first right channel R3 or the second right channel R4. If the player can adjust the launch strength themselves and guide the game ball into the desired channel R3 or R4, they can feel a sense of accomplishment.

[0049] Furthermore, this sense of accomplishment becomes even more pronounced if the game balls that collide with the buffer member 11K on the far right all enter the first right channel R3, and the balls are then directed to either the first right channel R3 or the second right channel R4 depending on the launch intensity. In this case, when shooting to the right, players can direct the game balls in their preferred style.

[0050] Furthermore, in the first right-side channel R3, only some of the game balls enter the second starting prize entry point 15 and award prize balls, whereas in the second right-side channel R4, all game balls pass through the third starting gate 18B and award prize balls. This makes it interesting for players to consider whether the game balls will enter the first right-side channel R3 or the second right-side channel R4, thus improving the game's appeal. Moreover, since prize balls are awarded each time a game ball enters the second right-side channel R4, players can continue playing without losing game balls, allowing them to enjoy the game for a longer period.

[0051] Furthermore, the game balls that enter the second right-side channel R4 and pass through the inclined wall 24 are received by the inner surface of the arc-shaped wall 22D, which changes the linear motion of the game balls into circular motion and guides them in the opposite direction to the direction of movement of the game balls on the inclined wall 24 towards the third starting prize entry opening 16. In other words, the game balls that have been moving in a linear motion are now moving in a circular motion in the opposite direction, allowing for a new way of flowing for the game balls and improving the entertainment value.

[0052] Figure 4 shows the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10. In the figure, reference numeral 50 denotes the main control circuit 50, which comprises a microcomputer equipped with a CPU 50A, RAM 50B, ROM 50C, and multiple counters, an input / output circuit connecting the microcomputer to the sub-control circuit 52, and an input / output circuit connecting a relay circuit to which various detection switches, operating handles 28, launching device 10H, etc. are connected, and performs the main control related to the game. The CPU 50A is equipped with a win / failure determination unit, a control unit, an arithmetic unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc., and performs arithmetic control, as well as generating random numbers related to the win / failure determination of special symbols and ordinary symbols, and is configured to output (transmit) control signals to the sub-control circuit 52, etc. The RAM 50B is equipped with a storage area for various random values ​​generated by the CPU 50A, a storage area and flags for temporarily storing various data, and a work area for the CPU 50A. ROM50C contains control data, symbol variation data related to the display of special and regular symbols, judgment values ​​for special symbol win / loss judgments and regular symbol win / loss judgments, and the number of rounds for a jackpot game. Information regarding the holding of special symbol win / loss judgments and regular symbol win / loss judgments is stored in RAM50B.

[0053] Furthermore, when the main control circuit 50 receives a signal that is output when the operating handle 28 is rotated, it outputs a signal to the launching device 10H to launch the game ball. At this time, when the operating handle 28 is rotated, the amount of rotation is detected by a rotation sensor (not shown), and the launching device 10H is controlled to have a higher launching intensity the greater the amount of rotation.

[0054] The sub-control circuit 52, like the main control circuit 50, includes a microcomputer equipped with a CPU 52A, RAM 52B, ROM 52C, and multiple counters, an input / output circuit connecting the microcomputer to the main control circuit 50, and an input / output circuit connecting the display control circuit 54, sound control circuit 55, lamp control circuit 56, etc. The CPU 52A includes a control unit, arithmetic unit, various counters, various registers, various flags, etc., and performs arithmetic control, as well as being configured to output (transmit) control signals to the display control circuit 54, sound control circuit 55, lamp control circuit 56, etc. The RAM 52B has a storage area for various data and a work area for the CPU 52A. The ROM 52C stores data for various effects, etc.

[0055] The display control circuit 54 is provided in the display device 13 and has a CPU, RAM, and ROM. The CPU of the display control circuit 54 acquires image data from the ROM based on the control signals output from the sub-control circuit 52 and displays an image on the display screen 13G based on that image data.

[0056] The audio control circuit 55 selects songs and voices to be generated from the speaker 10S based on the control signals output from the sub-control circuit 52 and controls the voice. The lamp control circuit 56 is connected to lamps such as decorative lamps mounted on the device and is a circuit board that relays the control signals for the lamps output from the sub-control circuit 52.

[0057] In this embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is equipped with an "addiction prevention function" that stops the launch of game balls if the player becomes too engrossed in the game. The details of this addiction prevention function will be explained below.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the gaming machine 10 has a special meter 30 located below the inclined wall 24 and to the left of the arc-shaped wall 22D. The special meter 30 is a parameter display equipped with multiple (10 in this embodiment) light-emitting elements 30A arranged side by side, and it notifies changes in a "specific value" that increases or decreases according to the game situation. Since the special meter 30 is located to the left of the arc-shaped wall 22D that bulges to the right, the arc-shaped wall 22D guides the game balls to avoid the special meter 30.

[0059] The specific value increases by 1 when, for example, 50 game balls are launched without entering any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, and decreases by 1 when a game ball enters any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16. In other words, the longer the situation continues where game balls are launched without many special symbol win / loss judgments being made, the larger the specific value becomes.

[0060] At the start of the game, both the specific value and the number of emitting light-emitting elements 30A in the special meter 30 are 0. For every 1 increase in the specific value, one light-emitting element 30A lights up, and for every 1 decrease in the specific value, one light-emitting element 30A stops emitting light.

[0061] Then, in the special meter 30, when all but one of the light-emitting elements 30A light up (in this embodiment, when the specific value reaches 9), the message "Addiction Meter - 9: Addiction Warning" is displayed on the display screen 13G (see Figure 5). After that, if the game balls continue to be launched and all of the light-emitting elements 30A of the special meter 30 light up (in this embodiment, when the specific value reaches 10), the main control circuit 50 stops sending a launch signal to the launching device 10H and stops launching game balls, and the message "Addiction Meter - 10: Launch Stopped" is displayed on the display screen 13G (see Figure 6). The specific value when the "Addiction Warning" notification is given (9 in this embodiment) is called the "first setting value," and the specific value when the launching of game balls is stopped (10 in this embodiment) is called the "second setting value."

[0062] Furthermore, if a specific value reaches the first set value but does not reach the second set value, and then falls below the first set value again, the addiction warning notification will not end immediately after the value falls below the first set value. Instead, the addiction warning notification will end when the specific value becomes a predetermined number smaller than the first set value (for example, 7).

[0063] Incidentally, some players, after starting a game, may become frustrated when they fail to get the balls into the starting prize slots 14, 15, and 16 (especially the first starting prize slot 14), and continue firing the balls, becoming engrossed in the game. In such cases, the game machine 10 of this embodiment notifies the player when a specific value that increases when the player continues firing balls even though the special symbol win / loss determination is not being performed often reaches a first setting value, making it easier for the player to realize that they are engrossed in the game. Furthermore, when the specific value reaches a second setting value, the firing of the balls is stopped and the game is forcibly ended, thus preventing the player from becoming engrossed in the game and spending too much money.

[0064] Furthermore, a sudden cessation of firing could lead players to mistakenly believe that a malfunction has occurred, potentially causing panic. However, since a warning about excessive gambling is issued before the firing stops, this misunderstanding is prevented.

[0065] Furthermore, if the system is configured to frequently display and disappear warnings about excessive gambling when a specific value fluctuates beyond the first set value, it could annoy players. However, once the specific value reaches the first set value, the warnings about excessive gambling will not end until the specific value becomes a predetermined number smaller than the first set value. Therefore, the system does not display and disappear frequently, preventing players from feeling annoyed.

[0066] Furthermore, since the specific value is displayed on the special meter 30, players can always check the specific value. In addition, a notification that the specific value has reached the first setting value is given on the display screen 13G where the display animation takes place, making it easier for players who are not paying attention to the special meter 30 to notice the notification. Moreover, since the fluctuating value is not displayed on the display screen 13G until the specific value reaches the first setting value, players who are not concerned with the specific value can concentrate on the display animation.

[0067] It is also conceivable to configure the system so that the addiction prevention function is activated simply when the number of launched balls exceeds a set value. However, if the number of launched balls increases but the special symbol hit / miss judgment is also performed at an appropriate frequency, there is a concern that this may spoil the fun for players who are calmly enjoying the game without getting worked up, by issuing an addiction notification or stopping the launch of balls. In contrast, as in this embodiment, by configuring the system so that a specific value decreases when a ball enters any of the starting entry points 14, 15, or 16, it is possible to efficiently prevent players from getting worked up when they are not getting balls into the starting entry points 14, 15, or 16.

[0068] [Second Embodiment] Next, the gaming machine 10 of the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, only the differences from the first embodiment will be explained, and redundant explanations of common components will be omitted.

[0069] As shown in Figure 7, in the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, an outlet 19 is provided on the prize entry protrusion 16A of the second right-side passage R4 to discharge game balls that entered the second right-side passage R4 but did not enter the third starting prize entry opening 16. As a result, only game balls that flowed down the first right-side passage R3 can enter the large prize entry opening 17.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gap between the upper end wall 22A of the resin wall 22 and the guide rail 12 is approximately the size of 1 to 1.2 game balls. Game balls that pass through the right guidance passage R6 without contacting the upper surface of the display decorative frame 23 and collide with the buffer member 11K enter the first right-side passage R3, while game balls that lose momentum along the way and roll along the upper surface of the display decorative frame 23 enter the second right-side passage R4.

[0071] In other words, the first right-side channel R3 starts between the upper end wall 22A of the resin wall 22 and the guide rail 12 and is configured to bend downward. In this case, the right guide passage R6 branches into the first right-side channel R3 and the second right-side channel R4, the first right-side channel R3 extends in an arc from the right guide passage R6, and the second right-side channel R4 extends downward relative to the right guide passage R6. Thus, a first outlet connected to the first right-side channel R3 and a second outlet connected to the second right-side channel R4 are located at the downstream end of the right guide passage R6.

[0072] Furthermore, since the upstream portion of the first right channel R3 extends in an arc shape continuously from the right guide passage R6, the flow of the game balls from the right guide passage R6 towards the first right channel R3 can be made to feel exhilarating. The second right channel R4 extends downward relative to the right guide passage R6 and the first right channel R3, so the way the balls flow differs greatly between the inflow from the right guide passage R6 to the first right channel R3 and the inflow from the right guide passage R6 to the second right channel R4, which can entertain players who are watching the movement of the game balls.

[0073] Furthermore, with this configuration, the game balls can be launched into the first right channel R3 and the second right channel R4 depending on the launch intensity, making it less likely for the game balls to enter the second right channel R4 during a jackpot game and fail to enter the jackpot opening 17.

[0074] Furthermore, in the normal state, if the player shoots to the right, they would at least want the ball to enter the second right-side channel R4 to obtain one game ball, while in the jackpot state, they would want the ball to definitely enter the first right-side channel R3. This allows the player to be interested in which channel the ball will flow down, the second right-side channel R4 or the first right-side channel R3. Since the configuration switches between situations where entering the first right-side channel R3 is advantageous and situations where entering the second right-side channel R4 is advantageous, the player will have to consider which channel R3 or R4 is more advantageous depending on the situation, which enhances the appeal for players who like complex games.

[0075] [Third Embodiment] Next, the gaming machine 10 of the third embodiment will be described. In the following description, only the differences from the first embodiment will be explained, and redundant explanations of common components will be omitted.

[0076] In this embodiment of the gaming machine 10, a "gambling addiction prevention function" is not provided; instead, a "second chance function" is provided. The details are described below.

[0077] As shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, a first chance opening 60 is positioned directly above the first starting prize entry opening 14, and a second chance opening 65 is positioned directly below the first starting prize entry opening 14. The first chance opening 60 opens forward with a size that allows one game ball to pass through at a time, and is always open. The second chance opening 65 opens forward with a width of about 3 to 4 game balls, and normally, the front is closed by an opening / closing door 65T, thereby restricting the entry (winning) of game balls. When a specific value, for example 10, as described in the first embodiment above, is reached, the opening / closing door 65T rotates around its lower end and is tilted forward for a predetermined time, opening the second chance opening 65.

[0078] As shown in Figure 9, a lift device 70 is located on the back of the game board 11. The lift device 70 comprises a lift section 71 that can move up and down, and a lift base (not shown) that supports the lift section 71 so that it can move up and down. In addition, a second guide section 66 that slopes downward as it moves towards the rear is provided on the back of the second chance opening 65, and a first guide section 61 that slopes downward as it moves towards the front is provided on the back of the first chance opening 60.

[0079] Then, when a specific value reaches 10 and all the light-emitting elements 30A of the special meter 30 illuminate, the opening / closing door 65T is tilted forward, opening the second chance opening 65, and the game balls caught by the opening / closing door 65T are collected in the second chance opening 65. The game balls collected in the second chance opening 65 pass through the second guide section 66 and are guided to the lift section 71. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the opening / closing door 65T returns to its upright position and the second chance opening 65 is closed, and the lift section 71 rises to the height of the rear end of the first guide section 61 and tilts forward, and the game balls lifted by the lift section 71 roll along the first guide section 61 and are discharged from the first chance opening 60 to the front of the game board 11. Since the first chance opening 60 is located directly above the first start prize entry point 14, the game balls discharged from the first chance opening 60 are more likely to enter the first start prize entry point 14. Furthermore, since the first starting prize entry point 14 is always open, it is easier for game balls to enter the first starting prize entry point 14 when the re-chance function is activated.

[0080] According to this embodiment, the game ball that would normally head towards the out-out

[0081] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, the gaming machine 10 of the fourth embodiment will be described. In the following description, only the differences from the first embodiment will be explained, and redundant explanations of common components will be omitted.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, in addition to the inclined wall 24 and arcuate wall 22D in the second right-side flow path R4, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is also provided with an inclined wall 80 and an arcuate wall 85 in the lower center in the left-right direction. The inclined wall 80 is located below the central discharge port 26A of the stage 26 and is inclined downward to the left. The arcuate wall 85 has a roughly semi-circular shape that bulges out to the left. A first starting prize entry opening 14 is located to the lower right of the downstream end of this arcuate wall 85, and the first starting prize entry opening 14 allows game balls that have passed through the arcuate wall 85 to enter.

[0083] Furthermore, a drop-off opening 81 is formed near the downstream end of the inclined wall 80, through which some of the game balls passing through the inclined wall 80 fall. From the downstream end of the opening edge of this drop-off opening 81, several nails are lined up to the lower right, and at the end of these nails is a general prize-winning opening 20 that opens upward. As a result, game balls that fall from the drop-off opening 81 are guided by the multiple nails into the general prize-winning opening 20, and game balls can be awarded. The passage connecting this drop-off opening 81 to the general prize-winning opening 20 (the detection switch for the general prize-winning opening 20) is called the "award passage 82".

[0084] Furthermore, the configuration may be such that only a portion of the game balls that fall from the drop-off opening 81 and pass through the prize-giving passage 82 enter the general prize-winning opening 20, or it may be such that all of the game balls enter the general prize-winning opening 20.

[0085] Furthermore, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a lift device (not shown) for raising the game balls, similar to the third embodiment described above. The lift device of this embodiment stores the game balls that have entered the first starting prize entry opening 14 in a lift section (not shown), and when a specific value reaches 10 and all the light-emitting elements 30A of the special meter 30 light up, it raises the lift section and discharges the game balls from the chance opening 83 provided at the upstream end of the inclined wall 80 to the inclined wall 80. In this embodiment, since the first starting prize entry opening 14 (the part that takes the game balls into the lift section) and the chance opening 83 (the part that discharges the game balls) are offset in the left-right direction, the lift device may be configured to raise the game balls diagonally, or the lift device may be configured to raise the game balls vertically and be equipped with a guide section that guides the game balls from the first starting prize entry opening 14 to the lift section, and a guide section that guides the game balls from the lift section to the chance opening 83. In the latter case, the lift device can be made more compact.

[0086] According to this embodiment, a game ball that has entered the first starting prize entry point 14 can be moved back towards the first starting prize entry point 14 by the lift device, providing a novel game that gives the player another chance and improving the game's appeal. In addition, since a drop-off point 81 is provided on the inclined wall 80, players can feel a sense of suspense wondering whether the game ball will fall out on its way to the first starting prize entry point 14. Moreover, even if the game ball falls out of the drop-off point 81, there is a chance that it will enter the general prize entry point 20 and be awarded a game ball, so players are less likely to be disappointed. Furthermore, if the configuration is set so that all game balls that pass through the award passage 82 enter the general prize entry point 20, then if a game ball falls out of the drop-off point 81, a game ball will be awarded, making it possible to enjoy the game for a longer period of time.

[0087] [Other embodiments] In the first embodiment described above, the player may be able to set whether or not to activate the "anti-addiction function." Alternatively, the system may be configured to stop firing but not to display the preceding message notification.

[0088] In the first embodiment described above, the second setting value may be configured to be set by the player. In this case, the special meter 30 indicates the percentage of a specific value that has been reached relative to the second setting value. With this configuration, each player can set the second setting value according to their acceptable loss.

[0089] In the first embodiment described above, a specific value was configured to increase by 1 when, for example, 50 game balls were launched without entering any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, and to decrease by 1 when a game ball entered any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16. However, a third setting value (for example, "10") may be set, and the value may decrease by 1 when, for example, 50 game balls were launched without entering any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, and to increase by 1 when a game ball entered any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16. In this case, for example, the first setting value would be "1" and the second setting value would be "0". Furthermore, if the player is able to set the third setting value in this case, the initial value can be set according to the acceptable loss for each player.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the special meter 30 displayed parameters, but it may also be configured to display numerical values ​​using a 7-segment display or an LCD.

[0091] In the above embodiment, a specific value may be displayed on the display screen 13G.

[0092] In the first embodiment described above, the notification of excessive engrossment terminated when a specific value became a predetermined number smaller than the first set value. However, it may also be configured to terminate after a predetermined time has elapsed since the specific value fell below the first set value.

[0093] In the first embodiment described above, the second setting value was the number following the first setting value, but the first and second setting values ​​may be separated by 2 or more. In this case, the system may be configured to notify the specific value in real time when the specific value reaches the first setting value, or it may be configured to notify only when the specific value reaches the first setting value (i.e., is approaching the second setting value).

[0094] In the above embodiment, only game balls that have flowed down the first right-side channel R3 can enter the second starting prize entry opening 15, and only game balls that have flowed down the second right-side channel R4 can enter the third starting prize entry opening 16. However, it is also possible to configure either or both of the second starting prize entry opening 15 and the third starting prize entry opening 16 so that game balls can enter regardless of which channel they flow down, but the ease of entry differs between them.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the second starting prize entry point 15 and the third starting prize entry point 16 had different drawing probabilities, but the drawing probabilities may be the same.

[0096] In determining whether a special symbol wins or losses, in addition to big wins, there may also be minor wins where the opening time of the large prize slot 17 is shorter than that of a big win. In this case, the probability of a minor win may be the same for the second starting prize slot 15 and the third starting prize slot 16, or it may be different.

[0097] In the second embodiment described above, the game balls may be randomly distributed to the first right channel R3 and the second right channel R4.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the second starting gate 18A may be positioned so that only a portion of the game balls that have entered the first right-side flow path R3 can pass through.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the number of prize balls awarded at the second starting prize entry point 15 may be set to be greater than the number of prize balls awarded at the third starting prize entry point 16. In this case, if a game ball enters the second right-side channel R4, one game ball is guaranteed to be awarded, while if a game ball enters the first right-side channel R3, it is possible to obtain more game balls than if a game ball enters the second right-side channel R4.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the number of game balls awarded when a game ball passes through the third starting gate 18B may be two or more. If only one game ball is awarded, it will not result in an excessive number of game balls being awarded, and there will be less difference in the number of game balls awarded when the game ball enters the first right channel R3 and when it enters the second right channel R4.

[0101] In the third embodiment described above, the second chance opening 65 was opened when a specific value reached 10 (when all the light-emitting elements 30A of the special meter 30 were illuminated), but it may also be configured to be opened periodically.

[0102] In the third embodiment described above, the second chance opening 65 may be configured to open upward and be opened and closed by an opening / closing door that slides in the front-rear direction.

[0103] In the third embodiment described above, the second chance opening 65 may always be open upward. In this case, it is preferable that the second chance opening 65 is sized to allow game balls to enter one at a time.

[0104] In the third embodiment described above, the lift device 70 may be configured to take in and raise at least some of the game balls that have entered any of the starting prize slots 14, 15, or 16, or the large prize slot 17 or the general prize slot 20.

[0105] In the third embodiment described above, the game ball may be configured to rise twice before heading towards the first starting prize entry opening 14. In the example shown in Figure 11, below the first starting prize entry opening 14, there is an upper second chance opening 65B that is always open upward, and a lower second chance opening 65A that has the same structure as the second chance opening 65 in the third embodiment described above. An upper first chance opening 60B and a lower first chance opening 60A are provided to the upper right of the first starting prize entry opening 14 and the upper second chance opening 65B. Furthermore, inclined walls 64 are provided between the lower first chance opening 60A and the upper second chance opening 65B, and between the upper first chance opening 60B and the first starting prize entry opening 14, respectively, to guide the game ball.

[0106] In this gaming machine 10, the game balls taken in by the lower second chance opening 65A are raised by the first lift device and discharged from the lower first chance opening 60A, and guided to the upper second chance opening 65B by the inclined wall 64. Then, the game balls taken in by the upper second chance opening 65B are raised further by the second lift device and discharged from the upper first chance opening 60B, and guided to the first start prize entry opening 14 by the inclined wall 64.

[0107] In the third embodiment described above, the configuration may allow some of the game balls being lifted by the lift device 70 to fall. For example, the lift section 71 may be configured to be open on both sides. In this case, even if the game balls are lifted by the lift device 70, some may fall along the way, which can give the player a sense of suspense.

[0108] Furthermore, the configuration may be such that the game balls that fall from the side of the lift section 71 are discharged directly from the game machine 10, or they may be able to be raised again by the lift section 71. For example, it is conceivable that the side of the lift section 71 is equipped with a side ball receiving section capable of catching game balls that fall from the lift section 71 while it is rising, and that the game balls are sent from the side ball receiving section to the descending lift section 71, causing the lift section 71 to rise again. This would give the game balls that missed their first chance to go towards the specific prize pocket another chance, thus creating a sense of excitement for the player.

[0109] In the third embodiment described above, the lift device 70 raised the game balls from behind the front of the game board 11, but it is also possible to raise the game balls from in front of the front of the game board 11. In this case, the player can see the game balls rising, which can enhance the player's sense of excitement.

[0110] In the fourth embodiment described above, for example, an opening may be provided to the left of the arc-shaped wall 85 or between the first starting prize entry opening 14 and the out opening 19, allowing game balls that did not enter the first starting prize entry opening 14 to be taken in, and the lift device may be configured to guide the game balls taken in through the opening to the inclined wall 80.

[0111] <Note> The following describes the features extracted from the above embodiment, including their effects as needed. For ease of understanding, corresponding configurations in the above embodiment will be indicated in parentheses as appropriate, but these features are not limited to the specific configurations indicated in parentheses.

[0112] [First group of features] This disclosure relates to a gaming machine, and for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-070847 (paragraph

[0011] , etc.) discloses a machine that plays a game by launching game balls. Compared to the conventional gaming machines described above, there is a need to prevent players from becoming engrossed in the game and spending too much money, and this problem can be solved according to the following features 1 to 10.

[0113] [Feature 1] A notification means that notifies the fluctuating value, which changes according to the game situation, when it reaches a first set value, A gaming machine comprising: launch control means that can be set to stop launching game balls when the fluctuation value exceeds the first set value and reaches the second set value.

[0114] According to the gaming machine described in Feature 1, when the fluctuation value reaches the first set value, the fluctuation value is notified, making it easier for players to notice if they are becoming engrossed in the game. Furthermore, when the fluctuation value reaches the second set value, the launch of game balls is stopped, forcibly ending the game, thus preventing players from becoming engrossed in the game and spending too much money.

[0115] [Feature 2] The game machine according to Feature 1, wherein the fluctuation value is either increased or decreased in response to an increase in the number of game balls that continue to be launched without entering a specific prize slot, and when a game ball enters the specific prize slot, the opposite of the above-mentioned process is performed.

[0116] According to the gaming machine described in Feature 2, it is possible to prevent players from becoming addicted to the game and spending too much money by continuing to play even when they are not getting the ball into the designated winning slot.

[0117] [Feature 3] The aforementioned fluctuation value increases in accordance with the increase in the number of game balls that continue to be launched without entering the specific prize slot, while decreasing when a game ball enters the specific prize slot. The gaming machine described in Feature 2, wherein the second setting value is a value greater than the first setting value and can be set by the player.

[0118] [Feature 4] The first setting value is a value greater than the second setting value. The aforementioned fluctuation value decreases from a third setting value set by the player to a value greater than the first setting value, in accordance with the increase in the number of game balls that continue to be launched without entering the specific prize pocket, while increasing when a game ball enters the specific prize pocket, as described in Feature 2 of the gaming machine.

[0119] The specific value may be configured to increase as the game balls continue to be launched without entering the specific prize slot, as in Feature 3, or it may be configured to decrease from the third setting value as the game balls continue to be launched without entering the specific prize slot, as in Feature 4. Furthermore, according to the game machines of Feature 3 and Feature 4, the second setting value or the third setting value can be set for each player according to their acceptable loss.

[0120] [Feature 5] A fluctuation value display unit that displays the fluctuation value as a parameter or numerically, The system includes a separate performance display unit, which is provided separately from the aforementioned fluctuation value display unit, and which performs display effects. The notification means is a gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 5, wherein the notification is performed in the performance display unit.

[0121] According to the gaming machine described in Feature 5, players can always check the fluctuating value on the fluctuating value display unit. Furthermore, since the notification that the fluctuating value has reached the first setting value is displayed on the performance display unit where the display effects are performed, players who are not paying close attention to the fluctuating value display unit are more likely to notice the notification.

[0122] [Feature 6] The gaming machine according to feature 5, wherein the fluctuation value is not displayed on the display unit until the fluctuation value reaches the first set value.

[0123] According to the gaming machine described in Feature 6, the variable value is not displayed on the display unit until it reaches the first setting value, allowing players to concentrate on the displayed animations.

[0124] [Feature 7] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 6, wherein the player can switch whether or not to activate the aforementioned notification means.

[0125] According to the gaming machine described in Feature 7, players who do not need notification can choose not to activate the notification mechanism.

[0126] [Feature 8] The aforementioned specific prize entry point is a starting prize entry point where a prize draw is held when a game ball enters, as described in any one of the features 1 to 7 of the gaming machine.

[0127] The designated prize slot may be a general prize slot that is always open, a large prize slot that opens during a jackpot game, or, as in Feature 8, a starting prize slot where a prize draw is held when a game ball enters. In this case, it is possible to prevent players from becoming engrossed in the game and spending too much money by continuing to play even when the prize draw is not held for a long time.

[0128] [Feature 9] The gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 8, wherein the notification by the notification means terminates when the fluctuation value changes by a predetermined number from the first set value to the opposite side of the second set value.

[0129] [Feature 10] The gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 8, wherein the notification by the notification means ends when a predetermined time has elapsed after the fluctuation value has changed by a predetermined number from the first set value to the second set value.

[0130] If the fluctuating value frequently crosses the first set value, there is a concern that the frequent repetition of notifications and their termination may be annoying to the player. In contrast, with the gaming machines of features 9 and 10, the notification by the notification means ends after the fluctuating value has moved a predetermined number of units away from the first set value, so the frequent repetition of notifications and their termination is prevented, thus preventing the player from feeling annoyed.

[0131] [Correspondence between the components of the first feature group and each part in the embodiment] Gaming machine: Gaming machine 10, Notification means: Main control circuit 50, Launch control means: Main control circuit 50, Specific prize winning slots: Prize winning slots 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, Fluctuation value display unit: Special meter 30, Performance display unit: Display screen 13G, Start prize winning slots: Start prize winning slots 14, 15, 16

[0132] [Second group of features] This disclosure relates to a gaming machine, and for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-070847 (Figure 2, etc.) discloses a machine equipped with a channel through which a game ball, launched to the right edge across the game area, flows downward. Compared to the conventional gaming machines described above, there is a need to improve the appeal of the way the game ball flows, and this problem can be solved according to the following features 1 to 8.

[0133] [Feature 1] The first downflow path through which the game balls that have crossed the game area and reached the right edge flow down, A gaming machine comprising: a second flow path provided to the left of the first flow path, separated by a resin wall, through which game balls that have not reached the right edge of the game area can flow down.

[0134] In the gaming machine of Feature 1, all game balls shot to the right reached the right end and entered the same flow path. However, in the gaming machine according to the first embodiment, in addition to the first flow path through which game balls that reach the right end flow down, a second flow path is provided in front of it. As a result, game balls shot to the right split into the first and second flow paths and flow down separately, improving the visual appeal of the way the game balls flow.

[0135] [Feature 2] A first specific ball entry section into which only game balls that have flowed down the first flow path can be entered, The gaming machine according to feature 1, further comprising a second specific ball entry section into which only game balls that have flowed down the second flow path can be entered.

[0136] According to the gaming machine of Feature 2, it is possible to pique the player's interest in whether the game ball will flow down the first or second down path.

[0137] [Feature 3] The first specific ball entry section and the second specific ball entry section are both characterized in that a lottery is held when a game ball enters them, and at least one of the lottery probability and the ease of ball entry is different, as described in Feature 2.

[0138] [Feature 4] The aforementioned lottery probability is the probability of winning a jackpot, a minor win, or a regular win, as described in Feature 3 of the gaming machine.

[0139] [Feature 5] The gaming machine described in Feature 4, wherein the first specific ball entry area and the second specific ball entry area are starting prize entry points, and the lottery probability is the probability of winning a jackpot.

[0140] According to the gaming machine of Feature 3, the player can be made more interested in whether the game ball flows down the first or second downflow path. Also, as in Feature 4, the lottery probability is the probability of getting a big win, a small win, or a regular win. As in Feature 5, the first specific ball entry section and the second specific ball entry section are starting prize entry points, and the lottery probability may be the probability of getting a big win.

[0141] [Feature 6] The game state can be set to either the normal state or a specific state where it is easier to win prize balls than in the normal state. The first specific ball entry section and the second specific ball entry section are a gaming machine that can win prizes in the specified state, as described in any one of the features 2 to 5.

[0142] According to the gaming machine of Feature 6, in a specific state, the player can be made interested in which of the first and second flow paths the game ball will flow down.

[0143] [Feature 7] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 6, which has a large prize opening into which only gaming balls that have flowed down the first passage cannot enter, and which does not accept gaming balls that have flowed down the second passage.

[0144] According to the gaming machine of Feature 7, in a jackpot game, it is possible to make the player interested in whether the game ball will flow down the first or second down path.

[0145] [Feature 8] The upper edge rail that constitutes the upper edge of the game area, The system includes a passage component that faces the upper edge rail from below and forms an upper edge passage through which game balls can pass between it and the upper edge rail, The first flow path allows game balls that have passed through the upper edge passage without contacting the passage structure to enter. The game machine according to any one of the features 1 to 7, wherein the second flow path comes into contact with the passage component midway through the upper edge passage, and a game ball rolling on the passage component can enter through it.

[0146] The first and second stream passages may be configured to be randomly assigned, or, as in feature 8, they may be assigned based on whether or not the firing intensity is adjusted to make contact with the passage structure.

[0147] [Correspondence between the components of the second feature group and each part in the embodiment] Gaming machine: Gaming machine 10, First flow path: First right-side flow path R3, Resin wall: Resin wall 22, Second flow path: Second right-side flow path R4, First specific ball entry area: Second start gate 18A, Second start prize entry opening 15, Second specific ball entry area: Third start gate 18B, Third start prize entry opening 16, Start prize entry opening: Second start prize entry opening 15, Third start prize entry opening 16, Upper edge rail: Guide rail 12, Passageway component: Display decorative frame 23

[0148] [Third group of characteristics] This disclosure relates to a gaming machine, and for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-070847 (Figure 2, etc.) discloses a machine equipped with a specific prize-winning slot into which a game ball can be entered. In the conventional gaming machines described above, there is a need to improve the entertainment value, and this problem can be solved according to the following features 1 to 14.

[0149] [Feature 1] Specific prize slots, A collection unit capable of receiving and collecting game balls that did not enter the aforementioned specific prize slot, A gaming machine comprising a lifting unit capable of raising the game balls collected in the recovery unit and directing them back towards the specific prize-winning opening.

[0150] According to Feature 1, game balls that do not enter a specific prize slot can be directed towards that slot again by the lifting mechanism, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives players another chance and improving the game's appeal.

[0151] [Feature 2] The gaming machine described in Feature 1, wherein the aforementioned specific prize-winning opening is always open upwards.

[0152] According to Feature 2, the specific prize entry point is always open, making it easier for game balls to enter the specific prize entry point when the rising mechanism is activated.

[0153] [Feature 3] The gaming machine according to feature 2, wherein a portion of the game balls that have been raised by the aforementioned rising section are discharged from above the designated prize winning opening.

[0154] [Feature 4] The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein a portion of the game balls raised by the rising section are discharged from directly above the specific prize entry opening.

[0155] According to features 3 and 4, the rising mechanism makes it easier for the game balls to enter the designated prize pockets.

[0156] [Feature 5] Specific prize slots, A collection unit capable of receiving and collecting game balls that did not enter the aforementioned specific prize slot, The collection unit is equipped with a lifting unit for raising the game balls collected in the collection unit, A gaming machine in which the game balls that have been raised by the aforementioned lifting section can once again head towards the aforementioned specific prize winning opening.

[0157] According to Feature 5, game balls that do not enter a specific prize slot can be directed towards that slot again by the lifting mechanism, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives players another chance and improving the game's appeal.

[0158] [Feature 6] The game machine according to any one of features 1 to 5, wherein the recovery unit comprises a recovery opening that opens forward and a guidance unit that can receive game balls and guide them to the recovery opening. (In this embodiment, the guide unit is an opening / closing door that rotates forward around the lower edge of the collection port.)

[0159] [Feature 7] The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 5, wherein the collection unit comprises a collection opening that opens upward and a sliding door that can open and close the collection opening.

[0160] [Feature 8] The aforementioned recovery unit is a gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 5, wherein the recovery unit is equipped with a recovery opening that is always open upwards.

[0161] The collection unit may be configured such that, as in Feature 6, a guide unit receives and guides the game balls to a collection opening that opens forward; as in Feature 7, a collection opening that opens upward is opened and closed by a sliding door; or as in Feature 8, a collection opening that is always open upward is provided.

[0162] [Feature 9] The collection unit receives and collects the game balls as they flow down, A gaming machine comprising a lifting unit capable of raising the game balls collected by the collection unit and directing them toward a specific prize-winning opening.

[0163] According to Feature 9, the floating game balls can be directed back towards a specific winning slot by the upward mechanism, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives players another chance and improving the game's appeal.

[0164] [Feature 10] Specific prize slots, A gaming machine comprising a lifting unit capable of taking in a game ball that has entered the aforementioned specific prize-winning slot, lifting it up, and directing it back towards the aforementioned specific prize-winning slot.

[0165] According to Feature 10, a game ball that has entered a specific prize slot can be directed back towards that slot by the lifting mechanism, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives the player another chance and improving the game's appeal.

[0166] [Feature 11] A sub-upper section is provided separately from the aforementioned upper section. The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 10, wherein the lifting section is configured to further lift the game balls that have been lifted by the sub-lifting section.

[0167] Feature 11 demonstrates an innovative method of moving the game balls, in which the game balls, raised by the sub-lifting unit, are further raised by the lifting unit before heading towards a specific prize winning opening.

[0168] [Feature 12] The aforementioned lifting section is a gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 11, wherein the lifting section lifts the game ball in a vertical direction.

[0169] Feature 12 is a compact design in which the lifting mechanism raises the game ball vertically.

[0170] [Feature 13] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 12, wherein a portion of the game balls raised by the aforementioned raising section may descend midway.

[0171] According to Feature 13, even if the game balls are raised by the lifting mechanism, some may descend along the way, which can create a sense of suspense for the player.

[0172] [Feature 14] The aforementioned lifting section is capable of raising the game balls again once they have descended, as described in feature 13.

[0173] In Feature 14, a game ball that has descended midway can rise again and head towards a specific prize winning slot. In other words, a game ball that has missed a second chance can get another chance to head towards the specific prize winning slot, which can give the player a sense of excitement.

[0174] [Feature 15] The aforementioned lifting section is a gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 14, wherein the lifting section lifts the game balls in front of the front of the game board.

[0175] With the game balls of feature 15, it is possible to make the player visually aware of the game balls rising.

[0176] [Correspondence between the components of the third feature group and each part in the embodiment] Gaming machine: Gaming machine 10, Specific prize entry point: First start prize entry point 14, Collection section: Second chance opening 65, Lifting section: Lift device 70, Collection opening: Second chance opening 65, Guidance section: Opening / closing door 65T, Collection section: Second chance opening 65

[0177] [Fourth characteristic group] This disclosure relates to a gaming machine, and for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-070847 (paragraphs

[0020] ,

[0021] , etc.) discloses a machine equipped with a distribution detection unit that, upon detecting a game ball, distributes a predetermined number of game balls to the player. In the conventional gaming machines described above, there is a need to improve the entertainment value, and this problem can be solved according to the following features 1 to 9.

[0178] [Feature 1] In a gaming machine equipped with multiple granting detection units that grant a predetermined number of gaming balls to a player when a gaming ball is detected, Main roads and It comprises a first passage and a second passage branching off from the main road, Some of the aforementioned multiple ball-giving detection units are arranged to detect only a portion of the game balls that have entered the first passage. The gaming machine includes a special granting detection unit among the plurality of granting detection units, which is arranged to detect all gaming balls that enter the second passage.

[0179] According to Feature 1, only a portion of the game balls that enter the first passage are detected by the ball distribution detection unit, while all of the game balls that enter the second passage are detected by the special ball distribution detection unit. This makes it possible to pique the player's interest in whether the game balls will enter the first or second passage, thereby improving the entertainment value. Furthermore, each time a game ball enters the second passage, a predetermined number of game balls are distributed, allowing the player to continue playing without losing game balls, thus enabling them to enjoy the game for a longer period.

[0180] [Feature 2] The gaming machine according to feature 1, wherein the first passage extends along the extension of the main passage, and the second passage extends downward.

[0181] According to Feature 2, the first passage extends along the extension of the main passage, so when the game balls move from the main passage to the first passage, it can give a sense of exhilaration. The second passage extends downward relative to the main passage and the first passage, so the way the balls flow differs greatly between the inflow from the main passage to the first passage and the inflow from the main passage to the second passage, which can entertain players who are watching the movement of the game balls.

[0182] [Feature 3] The gaming machine according to feature 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of granting detection units include a favorable granting detection unit that can detect only game balls that have entered the first passage and grants more game balls than when detected by the special granting detection unit.

[0183] [Feature 4] The game state can be set to either the normal state or a specific state in which it is easier to win prize balls than in the normal state. The aforementioned special granting detection unit ensures that the ease of detecting the game ball remains unchanged between the normal state and the specific state. The gaming machine according to feature 3, wherein the detection unit for granting advantages is more capable of detecting game balls in the specific state than in the normal state.

[0184] According to Features 3 and 4, the game becomes more complex and engaging because the player has to decide which of the two passages they want the game balls to enter: the second passage where game balls are guaranteed to be awarded, and the first passage where game balls are less likely to be awarded than in the second passage, but if awarded, more game balls may be awarded than in the second passage.

[0185] [Feature 5] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 4, wherein each time one gaming ball is detected by the special granting detection unit, one gaming ball is granted to the player.

[0186] The number of game balls awarded when a game ball is detected by the special awarding detection unit may be one ball, as in Feature 5, or it may be multiple balls. In Feature 5, which is subordinate to Features 3 and 4, if the number is one ball, it will not result in an excessive number of game balls being awarded, so there will be little difference in the number of game balls awarded when entering the first passage and when entering the second passage.

[0187] [Feature 6] The special grant detection unit is located in the second passage, and the gaming machine is described in any one of the features 1 to 5.

[0188] Multiple special grant detection units may be provided in the second passage, or only one may be provided.

[0189] [Feature 7] The gaming machine according to any one of features 1 to 6, wherein the first passage extends in an arc shape continuous with the main passage, and the second passage extends downward from the main passage.

[0190] According to Feature 7, the first passage extends in an arc shape continuously from the main passage, so when the game balls move from the main passage to the first passage, it can give a sense of exhilaration. The second passage extends downward relative to the main passage, so the way the balls flow differs greatly between the inflow from the main passage to the first passage and the inflow from the main passage to the second passage, which can entertain players who are watching the movement of the game balls.

[0191] [Feature 8] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 7, comprising a detection unit that detects all game balls that enter the first passage and does not dispense game balls to them.

[0192] In the gaming machine of Feature 8, all game balls that enter the first passage are detected by a detection unit that does not dispense game balls, and all game balls that enter the second passage are detected by a detection unit that dispenses game balls.

[0193] [Feature 9] In a gaming machine equipped with multiple granting detection units that grant a predetermined number of gaming balls to a player when a gaming ball is detected, Main roads and The main road comprises a first exit and a second exit located at the downstream end of the main road, The aforementioned plurality of distribution detection units are arranged such that only a portion of the game balls distributed to the first exit are detected, and all of the game balls distributed to the second exit are detected.

[0194] According to Feature 9, only a portion of the game balls allocated to the first exit are detected by the ball distribution detection unit, while all of the game balls allocated to the second exit are detected by the special ball distribution detection unit. This allows players to be interested in which exit, the first or the second, their game balls will enter, thus improving the game's appeal. Furthermore, since a predetermined number of game balls are distributed each time a ball is allocated to the second exit, players can continue playing without losing game balls, allowing them to enjoy the game for a longer period.

[0195] [Feature 10] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 9, wherein the first passage has a lower probability of awarding game balls than the second passage, but when game balls are awarded, it has a higher probability of awarding more game balls than the second passage.

[0196] [Correspondence between the components of the fourth feature group and each part in the embodiment] Gaming machine: Gaming machine 10, Main passage: Right guidance passage R6, First passage: First right-side passage R3, Second passage: Second right-side passage R4, Special award detection unit: Third start gate 18B, Advantage award detection unit: Second start prize entry 15, Large prize entry 17

[0197] [Fifth characteristic group] This disclosure relates to a gaming machine, and for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-070847 (paragraph

[0011] , etc.) discloses a machine in which a game is played by letting game balls flow down. Compared to the conventional gaming machines described above, there is a need to improve the appeal of the way the game balls flow, and this problem can be solved according to the following features 1 to 7.

[0198] [Feature 1] A linear guide extends in a direction that is inclined with respect to the left and right directions, and the game ball moves linearly along its upper surface. An arc-shaped guide that bulges away from the linear guide, receives the game ball on its inner surface as it passes through the linear guide, converts the linear motion of the game ball into circular motion, and guides the game ball in the opposite direction to the direction of its movement on the linear guide. A gaming machine comprising a prize-winning opening into which a game ball that has passed through the aforementioned arc guide can enter.

[0199] According to Feature 1, the game ball that has passed through the straight guide is caught on the inner surface of the arc guide, and its linear motion is changed to circular motion, guiding it in the opposite direction to the direction of its movement on the straight guide towards the prize entry point. In other words, the game ball that has been moving in a linear motion is now moving in the opposite direction in a circular motion, allowing for a new way of movement for the game ball and improving its appeal.

[0200] [Feature 2] The gaming machine according to feature 1, which is equipped with a lift device that takes in a game ball that has passed through the arc guide, moves it upward, and then discharges it.

[0201] According to Feature 1, it is possible to offer an innovative game in which the game balls are raised and discharged by a lifting device, thereby improving the appeal of the game.

[0202] [Feature 3] The gaming machine according to feature 2, wherein the lifting device raises the game ball that has entered the prize slot and guides it toward the linear guide.

[0203] According to Feature 3, the game balls that have entered the prize slot can be lifted back towards the prize slot by a lifting device, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives players another chance and enhances the appeal of the game.

[0204] [Feature 4] The system includes a collection unit for collecting game balls that passed through the arc guide but did not enter the prize-winning slot. The gaming machine according to feature 2, wherein the lifting device raises the game balls collected in the collection section and guides them toward the linear guide.

[0205] According to Feature 4, game balls that do not enter the prize slot can be moved back towards the prize slot by the lifting device, providing a novel gameplay experience that gives players another chance and improves the appeal of the game.

[0206] [Feature 5] A gaming machine according to any one of the features 1 to 4, wherein a drop-off opening is provided on the way from the straight guide to the arc guide.

[0207] According to Feature 5, some of the game balls passing through the straight guide fall out of the drop-off point and do not head towards the arc guide.

[0208] [Feature 6] The gaming machine according to feature 5, wherein a dispensing passage is connected to the aforementioned drop-off opening, and a dispensing detection unit is provided that dispenses a predetermined number of gaming balls to the player when it detects a gaming ball.

[0209] [Feature 7] The game machine according to feature 6, wherein the ball-giving detection unit is arranged to detect all game balls that have entered the ball-giving passage.

[0210] According to Feature 6, even if a game ball falls out of the drop-off point, there is a chance that another game ball will be awarded, making it less likely for players to be disappointed. Also, according to Feature 7, if a game ball falls out of the drop-off point, another game ball is guaranteed to be awarded, allowing players to enjoy the game for a longer period of time.

[0211] [Correspondence between the components of the fifth feature group and each part in the embodiment] Gaming machine: Gaming machine 10, Straight guide: Inclined wall 24, Inclined wall 80, Arc guide: Arc wall 22D, Arc wall 85, Prize entry point: First start prize entry point 14, Lift device: Lift device 70, Drop entry point: Drop entry point 81, Award detection unit: General prize entry point 20, Award passage: Award passage 82

[0212] While this specification and its drawings disclose specific examples of the technology included in the claims, the technology described in the claims is not limited to these specific examples. It also includes various modifications and changes to these examples, as well as parts extracted individually from these examples. Substitutions and combinations can be made as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0213] 10 Gaming Machines 10H Launcher 13G display screen 14 First Prize Entry 15. Second starting prize slot 16. Third starting point prize slot 17 Grand Prize Winners 18A Second Starter Gate 18B Third Start Gate 22 Resin wall 24 Slanted wall 30 Special Meter 50 Main control circuit 60 First chance opening 65 Second chance opening 70 Lifting device 80 Slanted wall 81 Drop-off point 82 Granting Passage 83 Chance Opening 85 Circular wall

Claims

1. The first downflow path through which the game balls that have crossed the game area and reached the right edge flow, A gaming machine comprising: a second flow path provided to the left of the first flow path, separated by a resin wall, through which game balls that have not reached the right edge of the game area can flow down.

2. A first specific ball entry section into which only game balls that have flowed down the first flow path can be entered, The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising a second specific ball entry section into which only game balls that have flowed down the second flow path can be entered.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein both the first specific ball entry section and the second specific ball entry section conduct a lottery when a game ball enters, and at least one of the lottery probability and the ease of ball entry is different.

4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the aforementioned lottery probability is the probability of winning a jackpot, a minor win, or a regular win.

5. The game state can be set to either the normal state or a specific state where it is easier to win prize balls than in the normal state. The amusement machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the first specific ball entry section and the second specific ball entry section are capable of awarding prizes in the specified state.

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