JP4221996B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines and slot machines.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In gaming machines, for example, pachinko gaming machines, a color liquid crystal display is often used as a symbol display device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This color liquid crystal display is configured to produce effects in the game and game contents by the operation of the display image.
[0003]
In addition to the color liquid crystal display, various lamps are attached to enhance the production effect. These lamps are, for example, a color liquid crystal display peripheral ornament, upper corner ornament, lower corner ornament, lamp windmill, etc., so that the lighting state such as extinguishing, lighting, flashing etc. can be changed appropriately according to the progress of the game It has become.
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2000-167114 A (FIG. 1)
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the various lamps provided to enhance the production effect are only lit in a predetermined monotonous pattern and are not surprising, so it is not possible to give a novel impression to the player, It was not enough in terms of production effects.
The present invention has been completed based on the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that gives a novel impression to a player, further enhances a production effect, and draws the player's interest. .
[0006]
[Means for solving the problems and actions / effects]
Effective means for solving the above-mentioned problems and their functions and effects are shown below.
Means 1. An introductory part capable of introducing game balls launched into the game area;
A gaming machine that is arranged downward from the introduction portion and includes a guide passage capable of guiding a game ball introduced into the introduction portion.
At the side of the guide passage, there is a transparent container filled with gas inside, and when a part of the container is substantially grounded, discharge from the discharge electrode can be made toward the grounded part. Plasma tubes are arranged,
And the outer surface of the container is opposed to one edge of the guide passage along the same edge so that the game ball passing through the guide passage and the outer surface of the container can contact or approach each other. In the guide passage, a grounding portion is provided that allows the outer surface of the container to be substantially grounded via a game ball passing through the guide passage, so that the ground contact portion moves as the game ball passes. It is a gaming machine characterized by being possible.
[0007]
The plasma tube is turned into a plasma state by applying a voltage to the gas sealed inside, and emits light by discharge. Unlike the liquid crystal, lamp, LED, fluorescent lamp, etc., this light emission is fantastic light emission, which can attract the interest of the player.
[0008]
Moreover, according to the structure of this means, there exist the following effects. When the game ball launched toward the game surface is guided downward from the introduction portion through the guide passage, the game ball comes into contact with or comes close to the ground portion provided in the guide passage. Then, the ground portion grounds the surface of the container through the game ball. Then, the discharge electrode of the plasma tube discharges toward the grounded portion, that is, toward the game ball. Here, since the grounding portion moves downward as the game ball falls downward, the discharge position from the discharge electrode also moves downward.
Thus, according to the structure of this means, since the discharge light moves in conjunction with the movement of the game ball, it is possible to give a novel impression and further enhance the effect of the player to attract the player. Further, since the movement of the game ball and the movement of the discharge light are interlocked, the position where the game ball is moving can be easily confirmed by the position of the discharge light.
Further, since the grounding portion is provided in the guide passage, even if the game ball is charged with static electricity by the plasma tube, the grounding portion can effectively remove the static electricity.
[0009]
The gas referred to in the present invention means a gas obtained by mixing neon, argon, xenon or the like alone or mixed, and these gases are ionized when a high voltage is applied to form plasma, and pink depending on the type of gas. It emits discharge light such as orange, green and blue. The plasma tube of the present invention is generally known as a plasma ball, a plasma panel or the like.
[0010]
Further, the gaming machine referred to in the present invention includes a pachinko machine, a slot machine, or a combination of a pachinko machine and a slot machine. As a basic configuration of a pachinko machine, an operation handle is provided, a ball is launched into a predetermined game area in accordance with the operation of the operation handle, and a start winning opening (actuated) is arranged at a predetermined position in the game area. As a necessary condition for winning (or passing through the operation gate), the identification information dynamically displayed on the display device is determined and stopped after a predetermined time. In addition, when a special gaming state occurs, a variable winning device (specific winning opening) arranged at a predetermined position in the gaming area is opened in a predetermined manner so that a ball can be won, and a value corresponding to the number of winnings is obtained. Examples include a value (including not only data (prize sphere) but also data written on a magnetic card).
[0011]
In addition, the basic configuration of the slot machine includes variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after dynamically displaying an identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information, resulting from the operation of the starting operation means (for example, an operation lever). Then, the dynamic display of the identification information is started, and the dynamic display of the identification information is stopped due to the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, the stop button) or when a predetermined time elapses. As the necessary condition that the confirmed identification information is the specific identification information, there is one provided with special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player. In this case, examples of game media include coins and medals.
[0012]
The basic configuration of the fusion of the pachinko machine and the slot machine is provided with variable display means for confirming and displaying the identification information after dynamically displaying an identification information string composed of a plurality of identification information, and starting operation means ( For example, the dynamic display of the identification information is started due to the operation of the operation lever), the dynamic display of the identification information is caused by the operation of the operation means for stop (for example, the stop button), or when a predetermined time elapses. Special game state generating means for generating a special game state advantageous to the player is provided on condition that the display is stopped and the confirmed identification information at the time of the stop is specific identification information, and a ball is used as a game medium. In addition, there is a configuration in which a predetermined number of balls are required at the start of the dynamic display of the identification information, and many balls are paid out when a special gaming state occurs. It is.
[0017]
The invention of claim 2 is the thing of claim 1, A reduction means for reducing the falling speed of the game ball is provided.
According to the invention of claim 2 Since the falling speed of the game ball passing through the guide passage becomes slow, the player can see the light emitted by the discharge light in conjunction with the falling of the game ball for a long time compared to the case where the speed reducing means is not provided. As a result, the fun of the game increases.
[0018]
The invention of claim 3 is the one according to claim 2, The speed reducing means is provided on the guide passage surface. Protrusion It is characterized by being.
According to the invention of claim 3, A game ball passing through the guide passage Protrusion Since it falls while colliding with the game, the falling speed of the game ball can be surely made gentle with a simple structure.
[0025]
The invention of claim 4 is the one according to claim 3, Above Protrusion In the guide passage, both the inner surfaces facing in the width direction are staggered along the vertical direction.
According to the invention of claim 4 , Game balls on both inner surfaces Protrusion Since it falls while colliding with the game ball, it is possible to efficiently decelerate the game ball passing through the guide passage.
[0026]
The invention of claim 5 is the one according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A resin wall is provided on the outer surface of the container that faces the guide passage, and a notch groove that opens with a groove width smaller than the diameter of the game ball is provided on the resin wall in the vertical direction. A part of the game ball is dropped into the notch groove.
According to the invention of claim 5, The impact due to the collision of the game ball can be reduced by the resin wall, and since the game ball can be brought closer to the plasma tube as much as a part of the game ball is dropped into the notch groove, the discharge light is easily collected.
[0027]
The invention according to claim 6 is the one according to claim 5. The notch groove is formed so as to meander with amplitude toward the front side and the back side of the game board.
According to the invention of claim 6, Since the ground contact portion is displaced toward the near side and the far side, the discharge light is shaken toward the near side and the far side, and a sense of depth can be given to the manner in which the discharge light changes.
[0028]
The invention of claim 7 is the one according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The guide passage has an opaque region that is not visible from the outside in a predetermined range near the introduction portion, and a power supply switch that turns on and off the plasma tube by a game ball that passes through the region in the opaque region. It is characterized by being arranged.
Generally, a so-called warp zone is adopted for gaming machines. In this warp zone, the player usually confirms that a game ball is in the guide passage until the game ball guided in the guide passage passes through the guide passage and appears on the stage. I can't. However, according to the invention of claim 7, It can be easily determined that a game ball has entered the guide passage by turning on or off the plasma tube.
[0029]
The invention according to claim 8 is the one according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The rotating body is provided with a rotating body that is rotated by driving means, and the rotating body is formed with a notch recess that can hold a game ball opened outwardly. Formed by the rotation trajectory of the game ball when it is rotated along the outer surface of the plasma tube while the game ball is in contact with or close to the outer surface of the plasma tube while being held in the notch recess. It is characterized by being.
According to the invention of claim 8 The speed at which the game ball passes through the outer surface of the plasma tube can be adjusted by the rotating body rotated by the driving means. Therefore, since the speed of passing through the outer surface of the plasma tube can be reduced, the player can see the light emitted by the discharge light in conjunction with the movement of the game ball for a long time. To increase.
[0030]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the gaming machine 1. In FIG. 1, a rail 7 having a function of guiding a bullet game ball 2 to an upper portion of the game region 3 or guiding an out ball collection port 5 described later is arranged around the game region 3. ing. In addition, a display device 11 having a variable display unit 9 composed of a liquid crystal display is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 3, and the detailed structure thereof will be described later. An opening / closing blade 13 driven by a solenoid is disposed above the center of the display device 11, and when the opening / closing blade 13 is in an expanded state, the game ball 2 is introduced into an introduction port 17 of a center frame 15 described later. It is easy.
[0031]
A start winning opening 19 having an opening / closing blade 19 </ b> A is disposed below the display device 11, and as a large winning opening that changes from a state in which the game ball 2 is not received to a state in which it can be easily received depending on the operation result of the variable display unit 9. A variable winning device (so-called attacker) 21 is arranged. Lamp wind turbines 23 are installed on both the upper left and right sides of the variable display unit 9, and passing gates 25 are installed on the lower left and right sides. Further, a plurality of hitting ball direction changing members (not shown) called windmills are rotatably installed at appropriate positions in the game area 3, and a number of obstacle nails (not shown) are planted. In addition, a decoration lamp (not shown) is provided at an appropriate position around the game area 3, and is appropriately lit or blinked according to the game content to enhance the realistic sensation of the game.
[0032]
The display device 11 is provided so as to surround the variable display portion 9 when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 1 in a state where the variable display portion 9 formed of a liquid crystal display and the variable display portion 9 are mounted on the game surface 29. It consists of a center frame 15. Note that a switch memory display 27 (corresponding to a so-called start memory display) is provided above the variable display section 9.
[0033]
The variable display unit 9 is mounted so as to enter the back side of the predetermined dimension from the game surface 29, while the center frame 15 is mounted so as to protrude from the game surface 29 to the front side of the predetermined dimension.
[0034]
When the game ball 2 wins the start winning opening 19, the variable display unit 9 changes the content of the symbol, and the symbol is changed to a specific profit state (that is, in a special mode gaming state, for example, a big hit state: “ 777 "etc.), the variable winning device 21 is opened. The variable display unit 9 is configured to display a display column divided into three in the vertical direction, and each display column can display three identification symbols. Accordingly, a total of nine identification symbols, three in the vertical and horizontal directions, are displayed in a matrix on the variable display section 9, and as shown in FIG. 2, there are three horizontal hit lines and two diagonal hits. When the same identification hit symbol is displayed on any of the five hit lines in total with the line, the big hit gaming state is entered.
[0035]
On the other hand, the center frame 15 includes a guide passage 35 including an inclined passage 31 that descends like a roof right and left from the upper center of the variable display portion 9, and a drop passage 33 that is connected thereto and goes down on both sides of the variable display portion 9. The stage 37 is disposed below the variable display unit 9 and temporarily stores the game balls 2 guided by the guide passage 35. Further, a substantially prismatic plasma tube 38 is disposed on the variable passage portion 9 side of the drop passage 33 so as not to cover the variable display portion 9 when viewed from the front of the gaming machine 1. By disposing the plasma tube 38 inside the drop passage 33, the plasma tube 38 is protected from the collision of the game ball 2. Note that the side wall forming the guide passage 35 is made of, for example, an opaque resin.
[0036]
The inclined passage 31 is formed in a rectangular tube shape, and is an upper wall at the top of the inclined passage 31, and the inlet 17 for introducing the game ball 2 into the inclined passage 31 is cut out immediately below the outlet of the opening / closing blade 13. The game ball 2 introduced from the introduction port 17 hits the lower wall 31A at the top of the inclined passage 31 and is distributed to the left and right. In the present embodiment, the lower wall 31 </ b> A at the top of the inclined passage 31 corresponds to the distribution means for the game balls 2.
[0037]
In addition, a 7-segment display 39 is provided near the inlet 17 on the side wall on the front side of the inclined passage 31 and operates by passing the game ball 2 to the passing gate 25, from “0” to “9”. The number of is variably displayed. When the 7-segment display unit 39 stops at a predetermined number (“7” in the present embodiment), the opening / closing blade 19A of the start winning port 19 is continuously opened for a certain period of time, and the opening / closing blades above the introduction port 17 are opened. 13 is also opened for a certain period of time. The opening time of the opening / closing blade 19A is set to be longer in the high probability mode described later than in the low probability mode, thereby making it easier for the game ball 2 to enter the start winning opening 19 in the high probability mode. Yes. Similarly, the opening time of the opening / closing blades 13 is set to be longer in the high probability mode than in the low probability mode, thereby making it easier for the game ball 2 to enter the introduction port 17 in the high probability mode. ing.
In the following description, the open / close mode of the open / close blades 13 and 19A in the low probability mode is referred to as a short-time mode, and the open / close mode of the open / close blades 13 and 19A in the high probability mode is referred to as a long-time mode.
[0038]
As shown in FIG. 3, the drop passage 33 has a U-shaped cross-sectional structure, and is arranged along the side wall of the prismatic plasma tube 38 having substantially the same width with the opening portion inside. The drop passage 33 is made of an insulating material on both side walls, and the bottom wall is a ground portion 33A made of a metal plate. When the game ball 2 passing through the drop passage 33 comes into contact with or comes close to the ground portion 33A, the ground is grounded. The portion 33A is configured such that the surface of the glass container 38A of the plasma tube 38 can be grounded via the game ball 2.
[0039]
The height of the side wall of the drop passage 33 is set so that a slight gap is formed between the top of the drop ball 33 and a glass container 38A of the plasma tube 38 when the game ball 2 rides on a later-described deceleration projection 33B. The inner dimensions of both side walls are also slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball 2. In this way, the game ball 2 can pass through the drop passage 33.
[0040]
On the inner surface of the bottom wall of the drop passage 33, a plurality of speed reduction projections 33B are provided as speed reduction means. These deceleration protrusions 33B are made of conductive metal and are electrically connected to the ground portion 33A. Since the game ball 2 passing through the drop passage 33 falls while colliding with the plurality of deceleration protrusions 33B, the fall speed of the game ball 2 is slow.
[0041]
The plasma tube 38 is substantially the same length as the drop passage 33 and encloses a gas, for example, a mixture of neon, argon, xenon, etc., as a gas that easily flows into a transparent hollow substantially prismatic glass container 38A. The discharge electrode 38B in the shape of an elongated round bar is disposed inside. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the glass container 38A is covered with a resin film 38C for strength reinforcement. The discharge electrode 38B extends from the lower end to the upper end of the glass container 38A substantially along the inner surface of the side wall facing the side wall of the glass container 38A fixed to the drop passage 33, and is sealed so that the internal gas does not leak. The glass container 38A is led out from above while being stopped.
Incidentally, the plasma tube 38 generally emits discharge light from a portion of the discharge electrode 38B that is at the shortest distance to the grounded portion toward the grounded portion (see the thick wavy line in FIG. 5). In general, the emission intensity of the discharge light decreases as the distance between the discharge part and the ground part increases. In the present embodiment, the discharge electrode 38B extends from the lower end to the upper end of the glass container 38A, and when the grounding part moves downward from above the glass container 38A, the discharge part at the shortest distance from the grounding part is also viewed from above. Since it moves downward, the distance between the grounding portion and the discharge portion hardly changes, and the discharge light can be kept at a substantially constant brightness.
[0042]
A power source 38D of the plasma tube 38 is attached to the upper part of the glass container 38A.
The power supply unit 38D is connected to a plasma tube driving circuit that drives the plasma tube 38. Then, a CPU 51 described later executes a driving process for the plasma tube 38 via the plasma tube driving circuit 64 based on voltage pattern data described later.
[0043]
Note that the plasma tube 38 in this embodiment is one in which discharge light is emitted randomly from the discharge electrode 38B toward the side wall of the glass container 38A, as shown by the thin wavy lines in FIGS. However, when the surface of the glass container 38A is grounded, it has a property of intensively emitting strong discharge light toward the grounded portion as shown by a thick wavy line in the figure.
[0044]
The stage 37 is provided so as to protrude from the game surface 29, and is inclined so as to become lower toward the center. In addition, an inclined surface 37A is formed at the center for dropping the stagnated game ball 2 downward. On the front side of the stage 37, a fall prevention wall 37B cut out in the vicinity of the inclined surface 37A is mounted to prevent the game ball 2 introduced into the stage 37 from falling from other than the vicinity of the inclined surface 37A. In this stage 37, after the guided game ball 2 has reciprocated several times in the left and right directions, it eventually falls forward from the stage 37. At this time, one out of several game balls 2 dropped from the stage 37 wins the start winning opening 19 provided immediately below the stage 37, and the player can play the game ball It is possible to have a sense of expectation that 2 will enter the start winning opening 19 until 2 enters the introduction opening 17, falls from the stage 37 and is led toward the starting winning opening 19. .
[0045]
Next, the configuration of the control circuit unit 50 that controls the driving of the plasma tube 38, the opening / closing blade 13, the opening / closing blade 19A, the variable display unit 9, and the variable winning device 21 of the gaming machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. I will explain. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of the control circuit unit 50 of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the control circuit unit 50 includes a CPU 51 that controls the entire control circuit unit 50, a memory 53 that stores a control program to be described later, data necessary for control processing, and the like, and an input port 55. The CPU 51, the memory 53, the input port 55, and the output port 57 are connected to each other via a bus line 59.
[0046]
The input port 55 is connected to a start winning port switch 61 provided at the start winning port 19 for detecting a winning ball and a passing gate switch 63 provided at the passing gate 25 for detecting a winning ball. The output port 57 includes a plasma tube driving circuit 64 for driving the plasma tube 38, an opening / closing blade driving circuit 65 for driving the opening / closing blade 13, an opening / closing blade driving circuit 67 for driving the opening / closing blade 19A, and a variable display unit. 9 is connected to a variable winning device driving circuit 71 for driving the variable winning device 21. The memory 53 is provided with a voltage pattern recording area, and stores a voltage pattern data table 73 composed of voltage pattern data corresponding to each gaming state.
[0047]
Next, an example of the voltage pattern data table 73 stored in the memory 53 will be described with reference to FIG. The voltage pattern data table 73 includes a gaming state and voltage pattern data corresponding to the gaming state. The voltage pattern data is data of the voltage applied to the plasma tube 38 corresponding to each gaming state, and in this embodiment, the voltage pattern A and the gaming state in the high probability mode are compared with the gaming state in the low probability mode to be described later. Is a voltage pattern B. The voltage pattern A and the voltage pattern B are different from each other. For example, the voltage is increased in the order of the voltage pattern A and the voltage pattern B so that the emission color of the plasma tube 38 is different in each gaming state. Data, or voltage patterns that repeat voltage intensities with a predetermined period, data that has a different period for each voltage pattern, and voltage pattern data with a predetermined period. In the case of repetition, this is data in which the voltage intensity range is different for each voltage pattern data.
[0048]
Next, the control process of the gaming machine 1 configured as described above will be described. 8 to 11 show various routines executed by the control circuit unit 50. Each processing of these routines is executed based on the counter group and the flag F.
[0049]
The counter group includes a round counter R, a winning counter P, and a probability variation counter C. The round counter R is for counting the number of rounds, and the winning counter P is for counting the number of winning game balls 2 to the variable winning device 21 based on the detection result of the count switch. The probability variation counter C is used to determine the end of the high probability mode, and takes values of “2”, “1”, and “0”. Note that the initial values of the counters R, P, and C are all “0”.
[0050]
In addition, the counter group includes an internal random number counter for determining occurrence of a big hit gaming state, an outreach random number counter for determining outreach reach, and a respective symbol counter for determining a stop symbol and the like. . Here, the outreach by the outreach random number counter refers to a state in which a jackpot combination is not finally obtained after the reach gaming state. In the present embodiment, the reach gaming state refers to, for example, a state in which the symbol variation in the right symbol row stops on the jackpot line with the same type of symbols as the stop symbol in the left symbol row.
[0051]
The flag F is used to determine whether or not the game ball 2 has won a prize in the V zone of the variable prize winning device 21, and is set to “0” when no prize is detected by the V zone switch, and a prize is detected. When set, “1” is set.
[0052]
Note that as one of the controls by the CPU 51, there is a so-called probability variation in which the probability of occurrence of a big hit gaming state is varied according to conditions. Specifically, a low probability mode that generates a jackpot gaming state with a low probability of about 1/300, and a high probability mode that generates a jackpot gaming state with a high probability of about 1/60, which is about five times as high The probability mode is switched according to the type of jackpot symbol. That is, if the jackpot symbol is a predetermined special symbol (eg, odd symbol), the high probability mode is set, and if it is a predetermined normal symbol (eg, even symbol), the low probability mode is set. Note that the multiple of the occurrence probability in the high probability mode with respect to the occurrence probability in the low probability mode may be a value other than the above-described value (about 5). In this embodiment, a low probability mode is set as the initial value. In this mode, the plasma tube 38 is driven based on the voltage pattern A, and the open / close mode of the open / close blades 13 and 19A is the short-time mode. Has been.
[0053]
When the game is started by the player, the control circuit unit 50 first plays a game based on the detection result of the start winning port switch 61 of the starting winning port 19 in step S10 of the special electric accessory control routine of FIG. It is determined whether or not there is a winning at the start winning opening 19 of the ball 2. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the special electric accessory control routine is terminated, and if it is satisfied, each value of the internal random number counter and the outlier reach random number counter is acquired and the value of each symbol counter is set in step S20. On the basis of the symbol row, the symbol is removed and acquired. The acquisition here refers to a process of reading the value of each counter and storing the value in a memory.
[0054]
Next, a symbol variation start process is executed in step S30. Specifically, in step S31 of FIG. 10, each symbol in the symbol row is variably displayed on the variable display unit 9. This display makes it appear to the player that the three reels of left, middle and right are rotating. In step S32, it is determined whether or not the value of the internal random number counter is the same as the jackpot value. As the jackpot value, two types of values (low probability jackpot value and high probability jackpot value) are prepared. The former is a value for generating the jackpot gaming state with the low probability described above, and the latter is a value for generating with a high probability. For example, when the internal random number counter is a value that is updated every predetermined time in the range of “0” to “299”, “7” is set as the low probability jackpot value, and “7”, “17” , “27”, “37”, “47” are the jackpot values for high probability. Then, the probability that the jackpot gaming state will be 1/300 when the low probability jackpot value is used as the jackpot value, and 1/60 when the high probability jackpot value is used as the jackpot value. When the low probability mode is set in the previous control cycle, the low probability jackpot value is selected as the jackpot value. When the high probability mode is set, the high probability jackpot value is selected as the jackpot value.
[0055]
If the determination condition of step S32 is satisfied, the big hit symbol corresponding to the big hit value is stored in the memory as a stop symbol in step S33. On the other hand, if the determination condition in step S32 is not satisfied, it is determined in step S34 whether or not the value of the outreach random number counter is the same as the predetermined outreach value. If this determination condition is satisfied, in step S35, a symbol corresponding to the detach reach value (hereinafter referred to as “disconnect reach symbol”) is stored in the memory as a stop symbol. If the determination condition in step S34 is not satisfied, the off symbol in step S20 is stored in the memory as a stop symbol in step S36. Then, after storing the stop symbol in the above steps S33, S35, S36, the symbol variation start processing routine is terminated.
[0056]
After executing the process of step S30 (symbol variation start process) as described above, the stop symbol in which the symbols in both the left and right symbol sequences are stored in any of the steps S33, S35, and S36 in step S40 of FIG. Replace with. The symbol fluctuation in both the left and right symbol rows is stopped by the symbol after replacement.
[0057]
In step S50, the symbol fluctuation in the middle symbol row is stopped. Subsequently, in step S60, it is determined whether or not the symbol combination is a jackpot combination. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the special electric accessory control routine is terminated. If satisfied, the round counter R is reset in step S70. In step S80, the winning counter P is reset and the flag F is set to “0”.
[0058]
Subsequently, in step S90 in FIG. 9, the variable winning device driving circuit 71 is driven, and the solenoid of the variable winning device 21 is excited. Then, the variable winning device 21 is opened. With this opening, it is possible to win a prize winning device 21. In step S100, the round counter R is incremented by "1".
[0059]
Next, in step S110, it is determined whether or not the value of the winning counter P is equal to or less than a predetermined value Pmax. If this determination condition is satisfied, it is determined in step S120 whether or not the scheduled closing time of the variable winning device 21 is yet. If this determination condition is satisfied (step S120: Yes), the process returns to step S110. As a result, after the start of opening of the variable winning device 21, the variable winning device 21 continues to be opened unless more than Pmax game balls are won or the scheduled closing time comes. On the other hand, if any one of the determination conditions in steps S110 and S120 is not satisfied, the solenoid of the variable winning device 21 is demagnetized in step S130. Then, the passage entrance of the variable winning device 21 is closed.
[0060]
In step S140, it is determined whether or not the value of the round counter R is equal to or less than Rmax. If this determination condition is satisfied, it is determined in step S150 whether or not the flag F is “1”. If the determination condition of step S150 is satisfied (step S150: Yes), the process returns to step S80 of FIG. Therefore, once the big hit gaming state occurs, the variable winning device 21 repeats the open / close cycle until the game ball has won the maximum Rmax times in the V zone. For example, when the predetermined value Pmax is set to “10”, the opening time of the variable winning device 21 is set to “about 29.5” seconds, and the predetermined value Rmax is set to “16”, the variable winning a prize is set. After the device 21 is released, it fluctuates when one of the following conditions is satisfied: (1) 10 game balls 2 win the variable winning device 21 and (2) about 29.5 seconds have passed. The winning device 21 is closed. The opening / closing cycle of the variable winning device 21 is repeated up to 16 times on condition that the game ball 2 wins the V zone. If any one of the determination conditions in steps S140 and S150 is not satisfied, the probability variation process is executed in step S160, and then the special electric accessory control routine is terminated.
[0061]
In the probability variation processing routine of FIG. 11, it is determined in step S161 whether the big hit symbol is a normal symbol (in this case, an even symbol). If this determination condition is not satisfied (step S161: No), that is, if the jackpot symbol is a special symbol (odd symbol), the high probability mode is set in step S167, and “2” is set to the probability variation counter C. To do. In step S169, the voltage pattern of the plasma tube 38 is set to the voltage pattern B, and the open / close mode of the open / close blades 13 and 19A is set to the long-time mode. Thereafter, the probability variation processing routine is terminated. In this way, when the big hit gaming state is continuously generated with a special symbol (odd symbol) during a high probability, the high probability mode continues and the plasma tube 38 is driven with the voltage pattern B, and the open / close blade 13 , 19A continues to be driven in the long-time mode.
[0062]
On the other hand, if the determination condition of step S161 is satisfied, that is, if the big hit symbol is a normal symbol (even symbol), it is determined in step S162 whether the probability variation counter C is not "0". If this determination condition is not satisfied (C = 0), the probability variation processing routine is terminated, and if it is satisfied (C = 2, 1), the probability variation counter C is decremented by “1” in step S163. In step S164, it is determined whether or not the probability variation counter C is “0”. If this determination condition is not satisfied (C = 1), the probability variation processing routine is terminated, and if it is satisfied (C = 0), the low probability mode is set in step S165. Thereafter, in step S166, the voltage pattern of the plasma tube 38 is set to the voltage pattern A, and the open / close mode of the open / close blades 13 and 19A is set to the short time mode. Therefore, the plasma tube 38 is driven by the voltage pattern A, and the open / close blades 13 and 19A are driven in the short time mode.
[0063]
Once the high probability mode is set in this way, the probability is high until the probability variation counter C becomes “0”, that is, after the high probability mode is set, until the big hit gaming state is continuously generated twice with an even number of symbols. The mode continues. When the big hit gaming state with an even number of symbols continues twice, the high probability mode ends and the mode is switched to the low probability mode.
[0064]
Note that the processing procedure in the present embodiment is an example, and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the symbol variation process (step S31) may be performed after the stop symbol storage process (steps S33, S35, S36).
[0065]
As described above, in the present embodiment, when it is detected that the game ball 2 has won the start winning opening 19, the value of each counter is acquired and the symbol sequence is displayed in a variable manner. A stop symbol is stored based on the value of each counter, and the symbol variation is stopped by the stop symbol. If the combination of symbols displayed when the game is stopped is a big hit combination, a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player occurs, and the game ball 2 is won in the V zone of the variable winning device 21 up to Rmax times. The cycle of opening / closing the variable winning device 21 is repeated.
[0066]
On the other hand, when the jackpot symbol is a special symbol (odd symbol), the high probability mode is set, and the probability of occurrence of the jackpot gaming state is increased two times, the next time and the next time. That is, once the high probability mode is set, the probability of occurrence of two big hit gaming states is increased from the next time, but if the big hit gaming state occurs again with an odd symbol during that period, the high probability mode is set. .
In the high probability mode and the low probability mode, the voltage pattern for driving the plasma tube 38 is different and the light emission mode changes. Further, in the high probability mode, since the opening time of the opening / closing blade 19A becomes long, it becomes easy for the game ball 2 to enter the start winning opening 19, and the opening time of the opening / closing blade 13 also becomes long, so the high probability mode. In some cases, the game ball 2 can easily enter the introduction port 17.
[0067]
Next, the effect of the gaming machine 1 will be described. By operating the handle 41, the player launches the game ball 2 on the game surface 29. The game ball 2 is bounced by a nail and partially introduced into the inclined passage 31 from the introduction port 17 of the center frame 15. Then, the game balls 2 hit the lower wall 31A at the top of the inclined passage 31, are distributed left and right, and are sent to either the left or right drop passage 33.
[0068]
Then, the game ball 2 descends while contacting or approaching the ground portion 33A of the drop passage 33. The ground portion 33A grounds the surface of the glass container 38A of the plasma tube 38 via the game ball 2, and discharge is performed from the discharge electrode 38B of the plasma tube 38 toward the grounded portion (game ball 2). Here, since the grounding part moves downward when the game ball 2 falls downward, the discharge position from the discharge electrode 38B also moves downward.
[0069]
Further, in the high probability mode, the game balls 2 can easily enter the introduction port 17 of the center frame 15, the number of game balls 2 passing through the drop passage 33 increases, and the discharge light of the plasma tube 38 increases.
[0070]
Such an embodiment has the following effects.
In the present embodiment, the plasma tube 38 is used for decoration, and unlike the liquid crystal, LED, fluorescent lamp or the like, the plasma tube 38 emits light in a fantastic manner, so that it can attract the player's interest.
[0071]
Further, according to the present embodiment, since the discharge light moves in conjunction with the movement of the game ball 2 falling through the drop passage 33 of the guide passage 35, a novel impression is given and the effect of the player is further enhanced. It can be interesting.
[0072]
In addition, according to the present embodiment, the plasma tube 38 and the guide passage 35 are provided adjacent to the variable display unit 9, so that the player can innovate while watching the game content displayed on the variable display unit 9. The change in the light emission state of the plasma tube 38 can be easily seen, and as a result, the fun of the game increases.
[0073]
In addition, according to the present embodiment, a plurality of plasma tubes 38 and guide passages 35 are provided, and distribution means (the lower part) distributes the game balls 2 introduced from the introduction port 17 (introduction section) to these guide passages 35. A wall 31A) is provided. Therefore, the distribution of the game balls 2 changes the plasma tube 38 in which the change of the discharge light appears, so that it is possible to give a novel impression, further enhance the production effect, and further attract the player's interest.
[0074]
In addition, according to the present embodiment, since the container 38A of the plasma tube 38 is covered with the resin film 38C as the reinforcing means, the strength of the plasma tube 38 can be reinforced.
[0075]
Further, according to the present embodiment, as the speed reduction means, the plurality of speed reduction projections 33B are provided on the inner surface of the drop passage 33 of the guide passage 35, so that the fall speed of the game ball 2 can be surely moderated with a simple structure. . Therefore, the player can see the light emitted by the discharge light in conjunction with the fall of the game ball 2 for a long time as compared with the case where the speed reduction means is not provided, and as a result, the fun of the game increases.
[0076]
Further, according to the present embodiment, in the high probability mode, the opening / closing blade 13 is opened long above the introduction port 17 (introduction portion), thereby making it easier for the game ball 2 to enter the introduction port 17. . Therefore, the number of game balls 2 passing through the guide passage 35 increases, and the amount of discharge light linked to the movement of the game balls 2 increases. Therefore, the stage effect in the high probability mode is enhanced and the player's interest is further increased. be able to. In addition, since the game effect in the high probability mode is enhanced, the player's satisfaction can be increased. In addition, it can be easily confirmed from the store clerk of the hall that the gaming machine is in a high probability mode (so-called probability fluctuation) state.
[0077]
In addition, according to the present embodiment, a plurality of voltage patterns to be applied to the plasma tube 38 corresponding to the high probability mode and low probability mode gaming states are set, and the light emission state of the plasma tube 38 differs depending on the gaming state. , You can further attract the interest of the player.
[0078]
Further, according to the present embodiment, for example, the plurality of voltage patterns have different voltages applied to the plasma tube 38 for each gaming state. It is known that the light emission state of the plasma tube 38 generally changes depending on the magnitude of the voltage applied thereto. According to this configuration, since the light emission state of the plasma tube 38 differs depending on the game state, such as the light emission state, the light emission color, etc., the player is extremely certain that he is in a specific game state due to a visually distinct light emission state. It is easy to know.
[0079]
Further, the plurality of voltage patterns repeats the voltage intensity with a predetermined period, and if the period is made different for each voltage pattern, the plasma tube 38 of the voltage pattern is changed according to the gaming state. Since the period of change in emission intensity or the period of change in emission color is different, the player can very easily know that the game state is specific due to a visually distinct difference in period.
[0080]
<Other embodiments>
The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described with reference to the above description and drawings. For example, the following embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention, and further, within the scope not departing from the gist of the invention other than the following. Various modifications can be made.
[0081]
(1) In each of the above embodiments, the case where the plasma tube 38 and the guide passage 35 are provided adjacent to the variable display unit 9 has been described. However, the positions where the plasma tube 38 and the guide passage 35 are provided are particularly limited. Instead, for example, a guide passage 35 through which the game ball 2 that has passed through the start winning opening 19 and the passage gate 25 passes may be provided, and the plasma tube 38 may be disposed along the guide passage 35.
[0082]
(2) In each of the above embodiments, the case where a plurality of the speed reduction protrusions 33B are provided as speed reduction means has been described. Further, not limited to the deceleration protrusion 38B, for example, a slope may be provided in the guide passage 35, or the guide passage 35 may be spiral. The point is that it can reduce the falling speed of the game ball 2 in the guide passage 35.
[0083]
(3) In each of the above embodiments, the gaming machine 1 provided with the opening / closing blade 13 and the opening / closing blade 19A is shown, but it is needless to say that the gaming machine 1 may be provided without the opening / closing blade 13 and the opening / closing blade 19A. .
[0084]
(4) In each of the above embodiments, the game ball 2 is easily introduced into the introduction port 17 in the high probability mode state. However, the present embodiment is not limited to the high probability mode state. The game ball 2 may be easily introduced into the introduction port 17 in the gaming state.
[0085]
(5) In each of the above embodiments, the two gaming states of the high probability mode state and the low probability mode state are used as the plurality of gaming states. However, three or more gaming states may be used. Further, the gaming state is not limited to the high probability mode state and the low rating mode, and may be a big hit state, a reach state, or the like.
[0086]
(6) In the above embodiments, two plasma tubes 38 are provided. However, the number of plasma tubes 38 is not limited to this, and may be one, or three or more. Of course it is good.
[0087]
(7) In each of the above embodiments, the plasma tube 38 is provided along the drop passage 33 which is a part of the guide passage 35. However, instead of this, the plasma tube 27 may be provided along the inclined passage 31. Good. Moreover, you may provide in both the inclination channel | path 31 and the fall channel | path 33. FIG.
[0088]
(8) In each of the above embodiments, the plasma tube 38 has a prismatic shape. However, the plasma tube 38 may have any shape, for example, a spherical shape, a cylindrical shape, or a flat plate shape.
[0089]
(9) In each of the above embodiments, the ground portion 33A is the entire bottom wall of the drop passage 33, but the ground portion 33A may be a part of the bottom wall. For example, the grounding portion 33A may not be the entire bottom wall but only the deceleration protrusion 33B, and the plasma tube 38 may be grounded intermittently.
[0090]
(10) Further, as shown in FIG. 12, the deceleration protrusions 33 </ b> B may be staggered along the vertical direction on both inner surfaces facing in the width direction in the guide passage 35. According to this configuration, since the game ball 2 falls while colliding with the protrusions on both inner surfaces, the game ball 2 passing through the guide passage 35 can be efficiently decelerated.
[0091]
(11) Further, as shown in FIG. 13, a resin wall 38D is provided on the outer surface of the container 38A facing the guide passage 35, and the resin wall 38D has a groove width smaller than the diameter of the game ball 2. A notch groove 38E that opens may be provided in the vertical direction, and the guide passage 35 may be movable while a part of the game ball 2 is dropped into the notch groove 38E. According to this configuration, the impact due to the collision of the game ball 2 can be eased by the resin wall 38D, and the game ball 2 is put into the plasma tube 38 by the amount of a part of the game ball 2 dropped into the notch groove 38E. Since it can approach, discharge light tends to gather. Further, the notch groove 38E may be formed so as to meander with amplitude toward the front side and the back side of the game board. According to this configuration, since the ground contact portion is displaced toward the near side and the far side, the discharge light is shaken toward the near side and the far side, so that a sense of depth can be given to how the discharge light changes.
[0092]
(12) Further, the predetermined range from the introduction portion 17 of the guide passage 35 is an opaque region that cannot be visually recognized from the outside, and the game tube 2 that passes through the opaque region is turned on and off with respect to the plasma tube 38. A power feeding switch for performing the above may be arranged. Generally, a so-called warp zone is adopted for gaming machines. In this warp zone, the player normally enters the game ball 2 in the guide passage 35 until the game ball 2 guided in the guide passage 35 passes through the guide passage 35 and appears on the stage 37. I can't confirm that. According to this configuration, it is possible to easily determine that the game ball 2 has entered the guide passage 35 by turning on or off the plasma tube 38.
[0093]
(13) Further, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, a notch recess 51 capable of holding the game ball 2 is provided so as to open outward, and a rotating shaft is driven by a motor 53 as a driving means. A disk-shaped rotating body 55 that rotates around the center 54 may be provided. In this configuration, the game ball 2 is held in the notch recess 51 and the game ball 2 is rotated along the outer surface of the plasma tube 38 while the game ball 2 is in contact with or close to the outer surface of the plasma tube 38. A guide passage 35 is formed by the turning trajectory of the sphere 2. Further, in this configuration, an arc-shaped ground plate 57 is provided on the game surface 29 and on the trajectory in which the notch recess 51 rotates, and can contact or approach the game ball 2 held in the notch recess 51. ing.
According to this configuration, the speed at which the game ball 2 passes through the outer surface of the plasma tube 38 can be adjusted by the rotating body 55 rotated by the driving means. Therefore, since the speed of passing through the outer surface of the plasma tube 38 can be reduced, the player can see the light emitted by the discharge light in conjunction with the movement of the game ball 2 for a long time. Will increase.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an entire gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the display device and the like.
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view, partly cut away, similarly viewed from the back of the center frame.
4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG.
5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a control circuit unit of the gaming machine.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a voltage pattern data table.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a special electric accessory control routine.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a continuation of FIG. 8 of the special electric accessory control routine.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the same symbol variation start routine.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a probability variation processing routine.
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XV-XV in FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 ... Game machine
2 ... Game balls
3 ... Game area
9 ... Variable display section
11. Display device
13 ... Opening and closing blades
15 ... Center frame
17 ... Introduction port
31 ... Inclined passage
33 ... Fall passage
33A ... Earth part
33B ... deceleration protrusion
35 ... Guide passage
38 ... Plasma tube
38A ... Glass container
38B ... Discharge electrode

Claims (8)

An introductory part capable of introducing game balls launched into the game area;
A gaming machine that is arranged downward from the introduction portion and includes a guide passage capable of guiding a game ball introduced into the introduction portion.
At the side of the guide passage, there is a transparent container filled with gas inside, and when a part of the container is substantially grounded, discharge from the discharge electrode can be made toward the grounded part. Plasma tubes are arranged,
And the outer surface of the container is opposed to one edge of the guide passage along the same edge so that the game ball passing through the guide passage and the outer surface of the container can contact or approach each other. In the guide passage, a grounding portion is provided that allows the outer surface of the container to be substantially grounded via a game ball passing through the guide passage, so that the ground contact portion moves as the game ball passes. A gaming machine characterized by being possible.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the guide passage is provided with a decelerating means for decelerating a falling speed of the game ball.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the speed reduction means is a protrusion provided on the guide passage surface.   4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the protrusions are arranged in a staggered manner along the vertical direction on both inner surfaces facing in the width direction in the guide passage.   A resin wall is provided on the outer surface of the container that faces the guide passage, and a notch groove that opens with a groove width smaller than the diameter of the game ball is provided on the resin wall in the vertical direction. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a part of the game ball is dropped into the notch groove.   6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the notch groove is formed so as to meander with an amplitude toward the front side and the back side of the game board.   The guide passage has an opaque region that is not visible from the outside in a predetermined range near the introduction portion, and a power supply switch that turns on and off the plasma tube by a game ball that passes through the region in the opaque region. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is arranged. In addition to having a rotating body that is rotated by the driving means, the rotating body is formed with a notch recess that can hold a game ball open outward,
The guide passage is rotated along the outer surface of the plasma tube while the game ball is in contact with or close to the outer surface of the plasma tube while the game ball is held in the notch recess. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is formed by a turning trajectory of the gaming ball.

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