JP7655372B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines.

Conventionally, a type of gaming machine known is, for example, a pachinko machine. A pachinko machine is a machine in which a game is played using a gaming ball, and is provided with a gaming area in which the gaming ball can move, and is configured such that the gaming ball is launched by a launching means and guided into the gaming area.

Some pachinko machines are equipped with a specific ball entry means having a specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter, and when a game ball that enters such a specific area enters a special ball entry means within the same area, a game state advantageous to the player is created (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-197312

However, when it comes to gaming machines, there is always a demand for new configurations and other means to add new excitement.

The present invention was made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can increase entertainment value.

The gaming machine of the present invention is
A launching means capable of launching a game ball;
and a ball entry means having a ball entry section into which the game ball launched by the launching means can enter;
The game machine is configured to be capable of providing an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player based on the entry of a game ball into the ball entry means,
The ball entry means is configured to include a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving around the periphery of the ball entry means is guided to the ball entry means and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
A trigger means is provided for changing the state of the guiding means to a state in which the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased when a predetermined number of game balls reach the guiding means,
The advantageous state can be established even if the guidance means is not in the guidance state,
a teaching means for teaching that the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased,
The state in which the possibility of causing the guiding means to be in the guiding state is increased may end without the game ball being guided to the ball entrance portion by the guiding means,
A means for terminating the state when a game ball reaches the trigger means during a period in which the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased;
The navigation system is characterized by comprising a means for taking a notification mode corresponding to the guidance state of the guidance means.

The present invention can increase interest.

1 is a front view showing a pachinko machine of a first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko machine. An oblique view showing the state in which the inner frame and front frame are open. A front view showing the configuration of the inner frame and game board, etc. FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the configuration of the pachinko machine. This is an oblique view showing the inner frame, rear pack unit, etc. in an open state. 2 is a block diagram showing the main electrical configuration of the pachinko machine. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of various counters used in game control. FIG. A schematic front view of the first starting winning device, etc., with the blade members in the closed position. A schematic cross-sectional view of the first starting winning device, etc., with the blade members in the closed position. A schematic front view of the first starting winning device, etc., with the blade members in the open position. A schematic cross-sectional view of the first starting winning device, etc., with the blade members in the open position. 13 is a schematic front view for explaining the operation of the blade member. FIG. FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a central unit ball detection process. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a central unit ball detection process. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an error detection process. A flowchart showing the first ball entry processing. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a blade confirmation process. FIG. 11 is a schematic front view showing a central unit according to a second embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view showing the internal structure of the specified number of times sorting device. FIG.

First Embodiment
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko game machine (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "pachinko machine") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 3 and other figures, the pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 as a fixed frame constituting the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and an inner frame 12 as a game board mounting frame is supported on one side of the outer frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. For convenience, Fig. 3 omits game components (game nails, accessories, etc.) arranged on the game board 30 surface, a glass unit 137 attached to the front frame 14, etc.

As shown in FIG. 6, the outer frame 11 is made up of an upper frame component 11a and a lower frame component 11b made of wooden boards, and a left frame component 11c and a right frame component 11d made of an aluminum alloy extrusion material, and these frame components 11a to 11d are assembled together into a rectangular frame shape by removable fasteners such as screws.

An upper hinge 81 and a lower hinge 82 are attached to the upper and lower ends of the left frame component 11c, respectively (see Figure 1). The upper and lower parts of the inner frame 12 are rotatably supported by the upper hinge 81 and the lower hinge 82, allowing the inner frame 12 to be opened and closed. The inner frame 12 and other components are housed in a space formed inside the outer frame 11.

The right frame component 11d also has an extending wall 83 formed near its rear end in the width direction that protrudes toward the inside of the outer frame 11. The extending wall 83 covers the entire upper and lower sections corresponding to the locking device 600 (see FIG. 6) provided on the rear side of the right side of the inner frame 12 from the rear side of the inner frame 12 (see FIG. 5). In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the front side of the extending wall 83 is provided with a pair of upper and lower receiving portions 84, 85 to which the locking member of the locking device 600 is engaged. The lower receiving portion 85 also has a pressing portion 86 that protrudes toward the inside of the outer frame 11 and abuts against the inner frame opening detection switch 92 described later.

In addition, a resin valance panel 87 is attached to the lower frame component 11b. A rib 88 that protrudes upward is integrally formed on the innermost part of the upper surface of the valance panel 87. This makes it difficult for a gap to form between the valance panel 87 and the inner frame 12.

As shown in Figure 3, the opening/closing axis of the inner frame 12 is set along the top and bottom on the left side when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10, and the inner frame 12 can be opened to the front side with this opening/closing axis as its axis. The inner frame 12 is mainly composed of a resin base 38 with a rectangular outer shape, and a roughly elliptical window hole 39 is formed in the center of the resin base 38.

The front frame 14 is attached to the front side of the inner frame 12 so that it can be opened and closed. Like the inner frame 12, the front frame 14 is designed to be able to be opened forward around an opening and closing axis set along the top and bottom on the left side when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10. The front frame 14 may be configured so that it can be opened directly by the outer frame 11, rather than via the inner frame 12. In this embodiment, the inner frame 12 (and the outer frame 11) correspond to the gaming machine body, and the front frame 14 corresponds to the door member.

The front frame 14 has a rectangular outer shape like the inner frame 12, and covers almost the entire front side of the inner frame 12 when closed. A roughly elliptical window 101 is formed in the center of the front frame 14. This makes it possible to view the game board 30 attached to the rear surface of the inner frame 12 from the outside (the front of the pachinko machine 10) through the window 101 of the front frame 14 and the window hole 39 of the inner frame 12. The detailed structure of the game board 30 will be described later.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a lower tray 15 is provided at the center of the lower part of the front side of the front frame 14, and game balls paid out from the lower payout opening 16 can be stored in the lower tray 15. In addition, a ball removal lever 25 for discharging game balls from the lower tray 15 is provided on the front side of the lower tray 15.

A game ball launching handle (hereinafter referred to as "handle 18") is provided on the right side of the lower tray 15 as a launching operation means protruding toward the front. The handle 18 is provided with a rotating operation body 18a as a rotatable operation part, and is provided with a touch sensor as a touch detection means capable of detecting touch of the handle 18 by a human hand at a position not shown, and a variable resistor as an operation amount detection means for detecting the operation amount of the operation part of the handle 18. When the handle 18 is rotated clockwise, the game ball is launched by the launching device 60, which will be described in detail later, with a strength corresponding to the rotation operation amount. The handle 18 is also provided with a stop lever 18b as a launch stop operation means that can be pressed by the thumb of the right hand holding the handle 18. When the stop lever 18b is pressed, the launching of game balls by the launching device 60 is prohibited even if the handle 18 is being held. This allows the handle 18 to be rotated while prohibiting the release of game balls, or the release of game balls can be temporarily stopped while gripping the handle 18.

As shown in FIG. 2, an upper tray 19 capable of storing game balls dispensed from the upper payout opening 17 is provided above the lower tray 15. The upper tray 19 also guides the game balls (temporarily) stored in the upper tray 19 toward the launching device 60, which will be described in detail later, while aligning them in a line. When the upper tray 19 is full of game balls, the paid-out game balls are guided to the lower tray 15 via the lower tray connecting passage 71 and the lower payout opening 16, which will be described later.

On the top surface of the upper tray 19 (to the right of the storage section) are provided a loan switch 121, a return switch 122, a ball removal button 123, and a balance display section 124. In an amusement hall or the like, when a gaming card with a balance is inserted into the CR unit located on the (left) side of the pachinko machine 10, the loan switch 121 is operated and loaned balls are supplied to the upper tray 19 in response to the operation. On the other hand, the return switch 122 is operated when requesting the return of a card inserted into the CR unit. The balance display section 124 also displays the balance of the card inserted into the CR unit.

Furthermore, the ball removal button 123 is configured to be able to protrude from the top surface of the upper tray 19, and is always biased in the direction protruding from the top surface of the upper tray 19 by a biasing means (not shown). When the ball removal button 123 is pressed, the space between the upper tray 19 and the lower tray 15 opens, and the game balls stored in the upper tray 19 are guided to the lower tray 15.

In addition, a performance button 125 and a cross button 126 are provided on the top surface of the upper tray 19 (in front of the storage section) as a performance operation means. An LED is built into the performance button 125, and by pressing the performance button 125 or the cross button 126, a corresponding performance is performed or the performance content is changed on the decorative pattern display device 42 described below.

In addition, various light emitting means such as lamps are provided around the front of the front frame 14. The light emitting modes of these light emitting means are changed and controlled in response to changes in the game state, etc., and serve to enhance the presentation effects during play. For example, a circular illumination section 102 incorporating light emitting means such as LEDs is provided around the periphery of the window section 101. Also, error display lamps 104 that light up when a specified error occurs are provided on both sides of the circular illumination section 102. Note that a number of fine through holes are formed in the upper parts of each error display lamp 104 of the circular illumination section 102 in correspondence with the speakers SP (see Figure 3) provided on the rear of the front frame 14.

A glass unit 137 is attached to the rear side of the front frame 14. The glass unit 137 is not a pair of rectangular glass sheets attached separately to the front and rear as in the conventional method, but is round overall and is assembled and then attached.

Next, the inner frame 12 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. As described above, the game board 30 is attached to the inner frame 12 behind the window hole 39 in a state where it abuts against the back side of the resin base 38. Therefore, approximately the center part of the front of the game board 30 is exposed to the front side of the inner frame 12 through the window hole 39.

Attached to the lower front part of the inner frame 12 (resin base 38), i.e., below the window hole 39, are a launching device 60 as a launching means, and a launching rail 61 that guides the game ball immediately after it is launched by the launching device 60. In this embodiment, a solenoid-type launching device is used as the launching device 60. Furthermore, above the launching device 60, a ball feeding device 63 is provided that guides the game balls guided from the upper tray 19 to the launch position of the launching device 60 one ball at a time by the drive of a built-in drive means (e.g. a solenoid).

Next, the configuration of the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. The game board 30 is provided with a general winning device 31, a variable winning device 32 as an advantageous state winning means, a first start winning device 33a as a first winning means, a second start winning device 33b, a through gate 34 as a guide trigger means, a central unit 401, and the like. The game ball launched by the launching device 60 is guided to the area (game area) between the front of the game board 30 and the rear of the glass unit 137. The various winning holes such as the general winning device 31, the variable winning device 32, the start winning devices 33a, 33b, etc. are configured so that the game ball moving in the game area can enter (win), and when a game ball enters one of these winning holes, the corresponding detection switch detects it, and a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the upper tray 19 or the lower tray 15. In addition, the various winning devices and the central unit 401 are arranged in through holes formed in the game board 30 and attached with screws, etc.

In this embodiment, three game balls are paid out when the start winning devices 33a and 33b win, ten game balls are paid out when the general winning device 31 wins, and fifteen game balls are paid out when the variable winning device 32 wins. In addition, even if a game ball passes through the through gate 34, which the game ball passes through but does not enter (it is not discharged to the back side of the game board 30), the game ball is not paid out. Note that, as will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, the general winning device 31 and the through gate 34 are configured so that game balls moving in the game area can always enter or pass through, whereas the first start winning device 33a is configured so that only game balls that have passed through the central unit 401 can enter, and the second start winning device 33b and the variable winning device 32 are configured to change between an open state in which game balls can enter and a closed state in which game balls cannot enter.

In addition, the game board 30 is provided with an outlet 36 corresponding to the bottom of the game area, and game balls that do not enter the various winning ports such as the general winning device 31 are discharged outside the game area through this outlet 36. In addition, the game board 30 is provided with a large number of game nails to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game balls, and various game components (gimmicks) such as windmills are arranged. The game board 30 of this embodiment is made of a transparent resin such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate. Furthermore, the game board 30 is decorated by directly printing on the front and back of the game board 30 and by installing decorative gimmicks behind the game board 30.

Now, a central unit 401 is disposed in approximately the center of the game area. The central unit 401 has a housing 402 that forms (partitions) a first specific area 403 into which game balls moving (flowing down) in the game area can enter. At the upper left side of the housing 402, a ball entry opening 404 is provided, which serves as an entrance through which game balls moving in the game area can enter the first specific area 403. The ball entry opening 404 is always in a state in which game balls can enter, but is configured to be relatively narrow, and the game board 30 is configured (the game nails are arranged) such that, for example, of 250 game balls shot at the ball entry opening 404, about 2 to 4 will enter the ball.

In addition, in FIG. 4, for the sake of convenience, the passages (the first unguided passage 406 and the second unguided passage 431 described below) that discharge game balls to the outside of the game area in the central unit 401 are omitted from the illustration. In addition, the ease with which game balls can enter the first specific area 403 can be changed as appropriate for each model.

The basic gameplay of this embodiment is that the goal is to have the game ball, which has passed through the first specific area 403, enter the first start winning device 33a installed below the central unit 401. When the game ball enters the first start winning device 33a, a lottery is held to determine whether the player wins with a 10/10 probability, and if the lottery is won, a jackpot state is generated in which the variable winning device 32 is set to the open state, providing an advantageous state.

However, not all game balls that enter the first specific area 403 enter the first start winning device 33a. The first specific area 403 has a first guide passage 405 through which a passing game ball may enter the first start winning device 33a, and a first non-guidance passage 406 through which a passing game ball may not enter the first start winning device 33a. The first specific area 403 is also provided with a first distribution device 407 which guides all game balls that have entered the first specific area 403 through the ball entrance opening 404 and distributes the game balls to a first guide passage 405 and a first unguided passage 406 at a specific ratio, and a second distribution device 408 which guides game balls that have passed through the first distribution device 407 and via the first guide passage 405 and distributes the game balls to the first guide passage 405 and the first unguided passage 406 at a specific ratio. A third distribution device 409 guides game balls that have passed through the second distribution device 408 and gone through the first guide passage 405, and distributes the game balls at a specific ratio to the first guide passage 405 and the first unguided passage 406, and a fourth distribution device 410 guides game balls that have passed through the first distribution device 407 and gone through the first unguided passage 406, and distributes the game balls at a specific ratio to the second guide passage 430 and the second unguided passage 431, which will be described later.

In this embodiment, only game balls that have passed through the third distribution device 409 can enter the first start winning device 33a. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first distribution means is made up of the first distribution device 407, the second distribution device 408, and the third distribution device 409. Note that in this embodiment, if a game ball is guided to the fourth distribution device 410 by the first distribution device 407, there is no possibility that the game ball will enter the first start winning device 33a, so the passage from the first distribution device 407 to the fourth distribution device 410 and the passages thereafter are also the first unguided passage 406. In contrast, for example, if there is a passageway that guides game balls from the fourth distribution device 410 to the third distribution device 409, the passageway from the first distribution device 407 to the fourth distribution device 410 and the passageway from the fourth distribution device 410 to the third distribution device 409 also become the first guide passageway 405. Also, for convenience, FIG. 4 omits the illustration of the first non-guiding passageway 406 that guides game balls that are guided outside the game area by the first distribution device 407 and the second distribution device 408.

In addition, the first distribution device 407, the second distribution device 408, the third distribution device 409, and the fourth distribution device 410 of this embodiment are generally round dish-shaped, and are configured with three circular holes at equal positions near the center through which game balls can pass (fall) one at a time. Game balls guided to the distribution devices 407 to 410 make several revolutions around the area on the outer side of the holes before falling into one of the three holes. Note that the location to which each hole of the distribution devices 407 to 410 leads will be described later.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game area (hereinafter referred to as the "second specific area 411") in which the first start winning device 33a is installed below the central unit 401 is configured to allow only game balls that have passed through the third distribution device 409 to enter, and on the left and right sides of the first start winning device 33a, there are provided partition walls 412 (in this example, configured by arranging multiple game nails continuously vertically) that prevent game balls moving in the area of the game area located to the left of the central unit 401 (hereinafter referred to as the "left side area") and the area located to the right of the central unit 401 (hereinafter referred to as the "right side area") from entering the second specific area 411.

In addition, the first start winning device 33a of this embodiment includes a first ball entry section 414 into which a game ball moving through the second specific area 411 can enter, and a pair of left and right wing members 415 as guide means (guide sections) provided on both the left and right sides of the first ball entry section 414. The wing members 415 are tongue-shaped and configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the front-rear direction, and are configured to be displaceable between a closed position (non-guiding state) extending upward from the rotation axis and an open position (guiding state) in which the wing members 415 are tilted from the closed position to the opposite side of the first ball entry section 414. When the wing members 415 are in the open position, the first start winning device 33a is configured to be in an open state in which a game ball moving to the side of the first ball entry section 414 is guided to the first ball entry section 414 by the wing members 415. On the other hand, by setting the blade members 415 to the closed position, the first start winning device 33a is set to a closed position that restricts a game ball moving along the side of the first ball entry section 414 from entering the first ball entry section 414. However, even when the blade members 415 are set to the closed position, the distance between the pair of blade members 415 is slightly wider than the diameter of the game ball, so that the game ball can enter the first start winning device 33a (first ball entry section 414).

Furthermore, the second specific area 411 is provided with a third distribution center discharge passage 417 that guides the game ball between the pair of blade members 415 in the closed position, and a third distribution side discharge passage 418 as a conditional first guide passage that guides the game ball to a position where it is guided to the first ball entry section 414 by the blade members 415 in the open position. As will be described in detail later, the game ball that has passed through the third distribution device 409 is guided (reaches) the third distribution center discharge passage 417 or the third distribution side discharge passage 418. Then, when the game ball is guided (passes) by the third distribution center discharge passage 417, the game ball enters the first start winning device 33a regardless of whether the blade members 415 are in the open position or the closed position.

On the other hand, when the game ball is guided (passes through) the third distribution side discharge passage 418, if the blade member 415 is in the closed position, the game ball does not enter the first start winning device 33a, but if the blade member 415 is in the open position, the game ball is guided by the blade member 415 and enters the first start winning device 33a (first ball entry section 414). In other words, the third distribution side discharge passage 418 is a conditional first guide passage 405 that is the first guide passage 405 when the blade member 415 is in the open position and the first non-guiding passage 406 when the blade member 415 is in the closed position. In this embodiment, the third distribution center discharge passage 417 corresponds to the specific passing position, and the third distribution side discharge passage 418 corresponds to the conditional specific passing position.

In this embodiment, of the three holes provided in the first distribution device 407, one is a constant guide hole 421 (constant guide part) that leads to the second distribution device 408 and guides the game balls to the second distribution device 408, another is a first discharge hole 422 that discharges the game balls outside the game area, and the remaining one is an auxiliary hole 423 that leads to the fourth distribution device 410 and guides the game balls to the fourth distribution device 410.

Of the three holes provided in the second distribution device 408, one is a constant guide hole 421 (constant guide part) that leads to the third distribution device 409 and guides the game balls to the third distribution device 409, and the remaining two are second discharge holes 424 that discharge the game balls outside the game area.

Of the three holes provided in the third distribution device 409, one is a constant guide hole 421 (constant guide part) that leads to the third distribution center discharge passage 417 and allows the game ball to enter the first start winning device 33a even when the blade member 415 is in the closed position, and the remaining two are conditional guide hole parts 425 (conditional guide parts) that lead to the third distribution side discharge passage 418 and can allow the game ball to enter the first start winning device 33a when the blade member 415 is in the open position, but cannot allow the game ball to enter the first start winning device 33a when the first start winning device 33a is in the closed position. In this embodiment, the third distribution device 409 constitutes the guidance change distribution means.

In addition, in the second specific area 411, in order to prevent the game balls guided to the constant guide hole portion 421 of the third distribution device 409 from being guided to the third distribution side discharge passage 418, or the game balls guided to the conditional guide hole portion 425 from being guided to the third distribution center discharge passage 417, a partition wall portion 426 is provided as a partition means between the third distribution center discharge passage 417 and the third distribution side discharge passage 418. In particular, in this embodiment, the partition wall portion 426 is provided on both sides of the third distribution center discharge passage 417 and the third distribution side discharge passage 418 so as to prevent the game balls moving through the third distribution center discharge passage 417 from falling out of the third distribution center discharge passage 417 and the game balls moving through the third distribution side discharge passage 418 from falling out of the third distribution side discharge passage 418.

The central unit 401 of this embodiment also includes a second type non-electric device operating port 427 as a second ball entry means through which game balls moving through the first specific area 403 can enter. In this embodiment, only game balls that have passed through the fourth distribution device 410 can enter the second type non-electric device operating port 427. In other words, of the three holes provided in the fourth distribution device 410, one is a fourth guide hole 428 that leads to the second type non-electric device operating port 427 and allows the game ball to enter the second type non-electric device operating port 427, and the remaining two holes are fourth discharge holes 429 that discharge the game ball outside the game area.

In this embodiment, the fourth distribution device 410 and the first distribution device 407 constitute the second distribution means. The first specific area 403 also includes a second guide passage 430 through which a passing game ball may enter the second type non-electric device operation port 427, and a second non-guidance passage 431 through which a passing game ball may not enter the second type non-electric device operation port 427. In other words, the passage from the ball entrance opening 404 in the first specific area 403 to the first distribution device 407 is the second guide passage 430 which also serves as the first guide passage 405, the passage from the first distribution device 407 (auxiliary hole portion 423) to the fourth distribution device 410, and the passage up to the second type non-electric device operating port 427 to which a game ball that has entered the fourth guide hole portion 428 of the fourth distribution device 410 is guided are also the second guide passage 430, and the other passages in the first specific area 403 (the passage to which a game ball that has entered the fourth discharge hole portion 429 of the fourth distribution device 410 is guided, the passage to which a game ball that has entered the constant guide hole portion 421 or the first discharge hole portion 422 of the first distribution device 407 is guided, etc.) are the second non-guidance passages 431. Also, for the sake of simplicity, FIG. 4 omits the illustration of the second hidden passage 431 through which game balls that are guided outside the game area by the fourth distribution device 410 are guided.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first start winning device 33a is configured such that the blade member 415 is not opened and closed electrically, but is mechanically linked to the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 to open and is mechanically linked to the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a to close (so-called a second type non-electric device).

As shown in FIG. 9, the blade member 415 of the first start-up winning device 33a, when in the closed position, comprises a guide edge portion extending in a substantially vertical direction (when viewed from the front), an outer upper edge portion sloping downward from the upper end of the guide edge portion toward the outside of the first start-up winning device 33a, and an outer lower edge portion sloping downward from the lower end of the outer upper edge portion toward the inside of the first start-up winning device 33a (a substantially triangular shape bulging outward from the first start-up winning device 33a), and a base portion 434 connected to the lower end of the blade portion 433. Note that the base portion 434 in this embodiment has an edge portion flush with the guide edge portion of the blade portion 433 and an edge portion flush with the outer lower edge portion of the blade portion 433.

A pair of front and rear shafts, a first shaft 435 and a second shaft 436, are provided at the bottom of the blade portion 433 and approximately in the vertical center of the base portion 434, respectively. In this example, the tip side (blade portion 433 side) of the blade member 414 is heavier than the base side (base portion 434) of the blade member 414, centered around the first shaft 435.

In response to this, as shown in FIG. 14, the first start winning device 33a has a substantially plate-shaped base plate portion (not shown) that is fixed in face-to-face contact with the front surface of the game board 30, and a cover portion 438 (see FIG. 4) that covers the front of the base portion 434 of the blade member 415. The base portion 438 has a hole-shaped or groove-shaped guide portion 439 that is shaped like the Japanese katakana character "I" (the upper side of the letter T slopes downward to the left) that corresponds to the right blade member 415 of the pair of blade members 415 when viewed from the front, and the guide portion 439 that corresponds to the left blade member 415 of the pair of blade members 415 when viewed from the front is a guide portion 439 that is a mirror image of the guide portion 439 that corresponds to the right blade member 415.

As shown in Figures 9 and 13 (solid lines), when the blade member 415 is in the closed position, the first shaft portion 435 and the second shaft portion 436 of the blade member 415 are stored in a vertically aligned manner relative to the guide portion 439. At this time, the lower surface side of the second shaft portion 436, the first shaft portion 435, and the left and right side surfaces of the second shaft portion 436 are supported by abutting against the guide portion 439, so that the blade member 415 is maintained in the closed position.

On the other hand, as shown in Figures 11 and 13 (dotted lines), when the blade member 415 is in the open position, the first shaft portion 435 and the second shaft portion 436 of the blade member 415 are stored so that they are aligned diagonally to the left and right of the guide portion 439 (the first shaft portion 435 is on the upper side and on the outside). At this time, the lower surface sides of the first shaft portion 435 and the second shaft portion 436, and the inner side of the first starting winning device 33a of the second shaft portion 436 are each supported by abutting against the guide portion 439, so that the blade member 415 is maintained in the open position.

In this embodiment, the area sandwiched between a pair of blade members 415 and covered at the front by a cover portion 438 is the first ball entry portion 414, and a game ball that enters the first ball entry portion 414 is discharged outside the game area via a winning ball discharge portion 440 provided on the base plate portion of the first start winning device 33a.

As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the machine is equipped with a substantially flat lower plate portion, a pair of side plate portions that extend from both sides of the lower plate portion at an outward incline, a push-up member 441 that is arranged relative to the upper surface of each side plate portion so that the upper surface side of each side plate portion and the base portion 434 of each blade member 415 face each other vertically, and a lever member 443 that is provided so as to extend from directly below the push-up member 441 to the interlocking passage 442 through which the game ball that enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427 is guided and passes, and has an axis portion at the middle position.

When the blade member 415 is in the closed position and a game ball enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427, the game ball falls onto the upper surface of the rear of the lever member 443 via the interlocking passage 442. As a result, instead of the rear of the lever member 443 descending, the front of the lever member 443 rises, and the front of the lever member 443 lifts the boost member 441, as shown in FIG. 12. When the boost member 441 is lifted, each blade member 415 is pressed upward by the inner surfaces of the pair of inclined left and right side plate portions of the boost member 441, and the first shaft portion 435 and the second shaft portion 436 of the blade member 415 are guided by the guide portion 439, and the pair of blade members 415 rotate and displace so as to open outward while displacing upward. Furthermore, when the underside of the first shaft portion 435 abuts the lower edge of the guide portion 439, the blade member 415, whose center of gravity is closer to the tip than the first shaft portion 435, tilts outward around the first shaft portion 435, and the front portion of the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441 descend until the push-up member 441 is no longer pushing up the blade member 415.Then, the first shaft portion 435 comes into sliding contact with the lower edge of the guide portion 439, and the second shaft portion 436 comes into approximate sliding contact with the upper edge of the guide portion 439, while the blade member 415 is displaced toward the central portion of the first start-up winning device 33a to a position where the lower edge of the second shaft portion 436 and the central side edge of the first start-up winning device 33a abut against and are supported by the guide portion 439, and the blade member 415 is placed in the open position. Furthermore, when a game ball that has fallen to the rear of the lever member 443 is ejected from an upper position of the lever member 443, the push-up member 441 and the front part of the lever member 443 descend and return to the reference position.

11, when the blade members 415 are in the open position and the game ball is guided by the blade members 415 to the first ball entry section 414, the game ball is placed astride the base portions 434 of the pair of blade members 415, and the weight of the game ball displaces the second shaft portion 436 provided at the base portions 434 of the pair of blade members 415 outward from the first start-up winning device 33a. By displacing the second shaft portion 436 outward from the first start-up winning device 33a, the lower surface side of the second shaft portion 436 is no longer supported by the guide portion 439, and the second shaft portion 436 is displaced downward along the guide portion 439, and the first shaft portion 435 is also displaced downward along the guide portion 439 while being displaced inward from the first start-up winning device 33a. As described above, the pair of blade members 415 move downward and rotate inward to close, and are set to the closed position. In this embodiment, the game ball is not guided to the winning ball discharge section 440 provided on the base plate portion of the first start winning device 33a until the orientation of the pair of blade members 415 moves from the open position to the closed position.

In this embodiment, the inner bottom surface of the push-up member 441 is configured to guide the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a (first ball entry section 414) to the winning ball discharge section 440, but for example, a protrusion that protrudes inward from the base section 434 of the blade member 415 may be provided, and the protrusions of the pair of blade members 415 may guide the game ball to the winning ball discharge section 440. In this embodiment, the push-up member 441 and the lever member 443 constitute the opening linkage means. Furthermore, the base section 434 of the blade member 415 constitutes the closing linkage means.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first start winning device 33a is provided with a start winning switch (referred to as the "first winning ball detection switch 224a" in this example) as a first ball entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a (the first ball entry section 414, and thus the winning ball discharge section 440). When a game ball is detected by the first ball entry detection switch 224a, a win/lose lottery is held to determine whether or not a jackpot state will be generated, and a variable display is performed on the special display device 43a, which will be described later. Then, if the jackpot state is won in the win/lose lottery, the jackpot state is granted.

In addition, the second type non-electric device operating port 427 is provided with a second ball entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427, and a second ball entry detection switch 446 as a linked ball detection means.

Furthermore, the central unit 401 (first specific area 403) is provided with a first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 which is provided in the first guide passage 405 from the ball entry opening 404 of the central unit 401 to the first distribution device 407 and detects a game ball that has entered the first distribution device 407, and a second distribution ball entry detection switch 448 which is provided in the first guide passage 405 from the constant guide hole portion 421 of the first distribution device 407 to the second distribution device 408 and detects a game ball that has entered the second distribution device 408. 449, a third distribution ball entry detection switch 450 is provided in the first guide passage 405 from the constant guide hole 421 of the second distribution device 408 to the third distribution device 409, which detects game balls that have entered the third distribution device 409, and a fourth distribution ball entry detection switch 451 is provided from the auxiliary hole 423 of the first distribution device 407 to the second guide passage 430 (first non-guidance passage 406) of the fourth distribution device 410, which detects game balls that have entered the fourth distribution device 410.

In addition, the central unit 401 is provided with a first distribution discharge detection switch 452 that detects game balls being guided from the first discharge hole 422 of the first distribution device 407 to the first unguided passage 406 leading to the outside of the play area, a second distribution discharge detection switch 453 that detects game balls being guided from the second discharge hole 424 of the second distribution device 408 to the first unguided passage 406 leading to the outside of the play area, and a third distribution center discharge passage 417 that is provided with a constant guide switch 454 for the third distribution device 409. There are provided a third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 that detects game balls guided by the hole 421, a third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 that is provided in the third distribution side discharge passage 418 and detects game balls guided by the conditional guide hole 425 of the third distribution device 409, and a fourth distribution discharge detection switch 456 that detects game balls guided from the fourth discharge hole 429 of the fourth distribution device 410 to the second unguided passage leading to the outside of the game area.

The first ball entry detection switch 224a corresponds to the first ball entry detection means, and the second ball entry detection switch 446 corresponds to the second ball entry detection means. The first distribution ball entry detection switch 448, the second distribution ball entry detection switch 449, and the third distribution ball entry detection switch 450 correspond to the first guide detection means. The first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 and the fourth distribution ball entry detection switch 451 correspond to the second guide detection means. In addition, in this embodiment, since all game balls that enter the first specific area 403 are guided to the first distribution device 407, the first distribution ball entry detection switch that detects all game balls that enter the first specific area 403 constitutes the specific area ball entry detection means.

In addition, the second distribution ball entry detection switch 449, the third distribution ball entry detection switch 450, the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454, and the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 when the blade member 415 is in the open position correspond to the first guidance detection means. Furthermore, the first distribution discharge detection switch 452, the fourth distribution ball entry detection switch 451, the second distribution discharge detection switch 453, and the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 when the blade member 415 is in the closed position correspond to the first uninformed detection means. The fourth distribution ball entry detection switch 451 corresponds to the second guidance detection means. In addition, the second distribution ball entry detection switch 449, the first distribution discharge detection switch 452, and the fourth distribution discharge detection switch 456 correspond to the second uninformed detection means. In addition, the first distribution discharge detection switch 452, the second distribution discharge detection switch 453, the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 when the blade member 415 is in the closed position, and the fourth distribution discharge detection switch 456 correspond to the discharge detection means. Furthermore, the various ball entry detection switches and various discharge detection switches provided in the central unit 401 constitute the passing detection means.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, in correspondence with the interlocking passage 442 through which the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427 is guided, an interlocking state changing device 461 is provided as an interlocking state changing means that changes the state between an interlocking permitted state in which the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427 reaches the lever member 443 that interlocks the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a and interlocks the lever member 443, and an interlocking restricted state in which the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427 does not pass through the lever member 443.

As shown in FIG. 10, the interlocking state change device 461 includes a switching unit 463 that can be displaced between an allowance position where the horizontal hole portion 462 formed in the side wall of the interlocking passage 442 is blocked to allow the game ball to pass through the interlocking passage 442 and a restriction position where the interlocking passage 442 is closed by protruding inwardly of the interlocking passage 442 to open the horizontal hole portion 462, and the restricting position where the interlocking passage 442 is closed, and a switching solenoid 464 that displaces the switching unit 463. The upstream surface of the switching unit 463 is inclined toward the upstream side of the interlocking passage 442 toward the tip side in the protruding direction, and the game ball that abuts against the switching unit 463 in the restricting position is guided to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 through the horizontal hole portion 462 without reaching the lever member 443 (in the case of a configuration in which the game balls are circulated only inside the pachinko machine 10, the game balls are guided to a storage section where they are stored until they are used as game balls to be fired, etc.).

In this embodiment, the switching solenoid 464 is in the permitted position when it is in an excited state, and in the restricted position when it is in a de-excited state (the plunger is displaced toward the interlocking passage 442 by the action of the spring). Therefore, at least when the power to the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, the switching solenoid 464 is in the de-excited state and displaced to the restricted position, and the interlocking state change device 461 is in the interlocking restricted state.

In addition, in this embodiment, an open position detection sensor 465 is provided as a guide state grasping means capable of grasping that the first start-up winning device 33a is in the open state (the blade member 415 is in the open position) (see Figs. 4 and 14). In this embodiment, a detection piece portion (not shown) is provided as an associated member connected to the first shaft portion 435 of the blade member 415 on the rear side of the base plate portion of the first start-up winning device 33a, and when the first start-up winning device 33a is in the open state, the detection piece portion of the right blade member 415 is detected by the open position detection sensor 465.

A second start winning device 33b is disposed in the right side area of the game area. The second start winning device 33b is provided with a pair of rotatably displaceable blade members 37 adjacent to both the left and right sides of the ball entry section (start winning hole) of the second start winning device 33b through which the game ball can enter. In this embodiment, when the blade members 37 are in a closed position extending up and down, there is no room for the game ball to pass between the tip of the blade member 37 and the game nail provided above the second start winning device 33b, and the second start winning device 33b is in a closed state in which it is impossible for the game ball to enter. On the other hand, by displacing the blade member 37 to an open position where it opens outward, a gap is secured between the blade member 37 and the game nail through which the game ball can pass, and the second start winning device 33b is in an open state in which the game ball is permitted to enter and the blade member 37 guides the game ball moving to the side of the second start winning device 33b to the start winning port of the second start winning device 33b. The second start winning device 33b in this embodiment is configured to be electrically opened and closed by a solenoid (not shown).

A variable winning device 32 is provided below the second start winning device 33b. The variable winning device 32 includes a large winning opening that leads to the rear of the game board 30, a shutter that opens and closes the large winning opening, a large winning opening solenoid for operating the shutter, and a count switch 223 that detects a game ball that has entered the large winning opening. By controlling the drive of the large winning opening solenoid and opening and closing the shutter, the variable winning device 32 (large winning opening) is switched between a closed state and an open state.

The variable winning device 32 is normally in a closed state where game balls cannot enter, and in the event of a jackpot, is in an open state where game balls can enter. In this embodiment, the large prize shutter of the variable winning device 32 is pivotally supported at its lower edge along the lower edge of the large prize opening, and when the variable winning device 32 is in a closed state, the large prize shutter extends up and down to block the large prize opening, allowing game balls to pass in front of the large prize shutter. On the other hand, when the variable winning device 32 is in an open state, the large prize shutter rotates forward and extends back and forth (the upper surface is slightly inclined downward toward the rear), and game balls that have flowed down in front of the large prize opening are received by the back surface (upper surface) of the large prize shutter and guided to the large prize opening.

In addition, in the jackpot state (and time-saving mode), the game ball is launched toward the right side area of the play area, whereas in the normal play state in which the game ball is made to enter the first specific area 403 of the central unit 401, the game ball is launched toward the left side area of the play area because the ball entry opening 404 of the central unit 401 is located on the upper left side of the central unit 401 as described above.

A through gate 34 is disposed above the second start winning device 33b. The through gate 34 is configured to allow game balls flowing down the game area to pass through it one by one. As will be described in more detail later, the through gate 34 is equipped with a through gate switch 225 that can detect game balls passing through the through gate 34.

When a game ball is detected by the through gate switch 225, a ball entry support lottery is held to determine whether or not the second start winning device 33b should be opened, and a variable display is displayed on the normal pattern display device 41 to inform the player of the result of the ball entry support lottery. If the ball entry support lottery is won, the second start winning device 33b is opened for a specified period of time after the variable display ends.

In addition, in this embodiment, there is a "high ball entry state" in which the blade member 37 of the second start winning device 33b is opened relatively frequently, making it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning device 33c, and a "low ball entry state" in which the blade member 37 is opened for a shorter period of time than in the high ball entry state. Hereinafter, the low ball entry state is referred to as the "normal mode", and the high ball entry state is referred to as the "time-shortened mode". In addition, there is a "low probability state" in which a jackpot is won with a predetermined probability in a win/lose lottery, and a "high probability state" in which a jackpot is won with a higher probability than in the low probability state in a win/lose lottery, and a "high probability mode" in which a high probability state and a high ball entry state are both provided, and a "potential mode" in which a high probability state and a low ball entry state are both provided (if there is a high probability state and a low probability state, the low probability state and the low ball entry state may be referred to as the "normal mode", and the low probability state and the high ball entry state may be referred to as the "time-shortened mode").

In addition, examples of the high ball entry state include (1) a state in which the variable display time in the normal pattern display device 41 is shorter than in the low ball entry state, (2) a state in which the opening time in which the second start winning device 33b is opened upon winning one ball entry support lottery is longer than in the low ball entry state (such as by increasing the opening time of the second start winning device 33b or increasing the number of times the second start winning device 33b is opened to be in the specified time open state), (3) a state in which the specified number of game balls that can be entered per opening of the second start winning device 33b is greater than in the low ball entry state, and (4) a state in which the winning probability of the ball entry support lottery is higher than in the low ball entry state. The high ball entry state in this embodiment employs the above configurations (1), (2), and (4). Of course, this is not limited to this, and any one of the configurations (1) to (4), or any combination of these configurations (1) to (4) may be adopted as the "high ball entry state". This makes it easier for game balls to win the second start winning device 33b more frequently, increasing the number of times the winning/losing lottery is held, and creating a good ball holding state in which the reduction in the number of balls held by the player is suppressed.

The variation time of the normal pattern display device 41 in this embodiment is either 10 minutes, 9 minutes, or 8 minutes in a low ball entry state, and 1 second in a high ball entry state. The opening time of the second start winning device 33b is 0.2 seconds in a low ball entry state, and 3 seconds in a high ball entry state. The probability of winning the winning support lottery is 1/20 in a low ball entry state, and 1/2 in a high ball entry state.

In addition, the types of jackpots in this embodiment include a 15-round jackpot with electric support (hereinafter referred to as "15RS") and a 15-round normal jackpot (hereinafter referred to as "15RN"). In "15RS" and "15RN," one round is when the variable winning device 32 is open for 30 seconds, or when 10 game balls enter the variable winning device 32 after the variable winning device 32 is opened, and the jackpot state ends after this is repeated 15 times.

In addition, after the "15RS" jackpot state ends, the mode transitions to the "time-saving mode", and after the "15RN" jackpot state ends, the mode transitions to the "normal mode". In this embodiment, the normal mode and the time-saving mode continue until the jackpot state occurs (an upper limit on the number of times the special display devices 43a and 43b can be displayed for the time-saving mode may be set). In this embodiment, if the player is granted the right to the jackpot state in the normal mode (if the player wins the lottery), the mode will always be "15RS". However, there is an upper limit on the number of consecutive jackpots (the number of times the time-saving mode is granted after the jackpot state), and in this embodiment, if the jackpot state occurs twice in a row (with the time-saving mode in between), the mode transitions to the normal mode (the jackpot following the "15RS" will be "15RN").

As shown in FIG. 4, adjacent to the upper right part of the approximately elliptical game area, the first special display device 43a as a special display means for performing a variable display to inform the result of the winning/losing lottery triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first start winning device 33a, the second special display device 43b as a special display means for performing a variable display to inform the result of the winning/losing lottery triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second start winning device 33b, and the normal pattern display device 41 as a normal display means for performing a variable display to inform the result of the winning/losing support lottery triggered by the passage of a game ball into the through gate 34 are provided so as to be visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10. In this embodiment, the first special display device 43a, the second special display device 43b, and the normal pattern display device 41 are directly displayed and controlled by the main control device 261 as the main control device described later.

The first special display device 43a is composed of four LEDs (first special symbol lamps). When a game ball enters the first start winning device 33a, the first special display device 43a switches the display (variable display) of the first special symbol lamp. Hereinafter, the variable display based on the game ball entering the first start winning device 33a is also referred to as the "first variable display."

The second special display device 43b is composed of four LEDs (second special lamps). When a game ball enters the second start winning device 33b, the second special display device 43b switches the display (varies) of the second special lamp. Hereinafter, the variable display based on the game ball entering the second start winning device 33b is also referred to as the "second variable display."

After the first special display device 43a and the second special display device 43b display the variable information for a predetermined period of time, the variable information will be stopped based on the result of the winning/losing lottery. In other words, the lighting state when the variable information stops (the combination of the lit special lamps) corresponds to various results of the winning/losing lottery, and the lighting state when the variable information stops definitively displays the result of the winning/losing lottery, i.e., "jackpot" or "loss."

Furthermore, the first special display device 43a and the second special display device 43b also indicate the type of jackpot, i.e., "15RS" or "15RN", depending on the lighting mode (stop mode) at which they are stopped. Also, there are not just one but multiple stop modes for the first special display device 43a and the second special display device 43b that indicate various jackpot types or misses, and one of these is selected and displayed as a stop mode.

In this embodiment, the probability of winning the jackpot is 10/10 in both the winning/losing lottery triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first start winning device 33a and the winning/losing lottery triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second start winning device 33b, and the type of jackpot to be won is determined according to the game state (game mode). However, it may be configured so that there are cases where the winning/losing lottery does not result in a winning, or it may be configured so that the jackpot is always awarded without a winning/losing lottery. In addition, for example, the winning probability of the winning/losing lottery may be set to 1/10, 1/12, or 1/14 by operating the inside or rear side of the pachinko machine 10 (inner frame 12), or it may be configured so that the winning probability is 1/24 in a low probability state and 1/10 in a high probability state. Furthermore, it may be configured so that the type of jackpot is selected from among multiple types by lottery.

The stopped display on the first special display device 43a and the second special display device 43b is configured to be maintained for a specified time, and the next variable display can be started after the specified time has elapsed (after the variable interval). Furthermore, if the next variable display is not performed even after the specified time has elapsed after the stopped display on the first special display device 43a or the second special display device 43b, the first special display device 43a or the second special display device 43b is configured to switch from the lighting state indicating the result of the win/lose lottery to a lighting state indicating that the variable display is in a standby state where no variable display is being performed. Note that the lighting state indicating the result of the win/lose lottery may be configured to be maintained as is.

In addition, when a game ball enters the start winning device 33a, 33b during the variable display on the special display device 43a, 43b, the variable display corresponding to the ball entry can be reserved and stored, and a first reserved display device and a second reserved display device can be provided as a reserved display means for indicating that the variable display has been reserved and stored. For example, the first and second variable displays can each be reserved and stored up to four times (the number of times that can be reserved and stored can be changed for each model), and the first reserved display device and the second reserved display device are each composed of two LEDs (first reserved lamp, second reserved lamp), and when the first variable display is reserved once, the first reserved lamp on the left side (inner circumference of the game area) is lit, when the first variable display is reserved twice, the first reserved lamps on the left and right are lit, when the first variable display is reserved three times, the first reserved lamp on the left side flashes and the first reserved lamp on the right side is lit, and when the first variable display is reserved four times, the first reserved lamps on the left and right are lit. In a configuration that allows the variable display of the special display devices 43a and 43b to be reserved and stored, if a new game ball enters the start winning device 33a or 33b during a jackpot state, the variable display of that ball is also reserved, and the first reserved display device and the second reserved display device are directly controlled by the main control device 261, which serves as the main control means described below.

The normal pattern display device 41 is composed of two LEDs (normal pattern lamps). In addition, in the normal pattern display device 41, for example, the normal pattern lamp on the right side (outer circumference of the game area) is flashed (displayed in a variable manner) when the game ball passes through the through gate 34. After the variable display is performed for a predetermined time on the normal pattern display device 41, the variable display is stopped based on the result of the ball entry support lottery. In other words, the lighting state (combination of lit normal pattern lamps) when the variable display is stopped corresponds to various results of the ball entry support lottery, and the result of the ball entry support lottery is definitively displayed depending on the lighting state when the variable display is stopped. For example, lighting both the left and right normal pattern lamps indicates a "win," and lighting only the left normal pattern lamp indicates a "lose."

In addition, when a game ball passes through the through gate 34 during the variable display on the normal pattern display device 41, the variable display corresponding to the passage may be configured to be reserved and stored, and a normal reserved display device may be provided to indicate that the variable display has been reserved and stored. For example, the variable display of the normal pattern display device 41, which is performed based on the passage of a game ball through the through gate 34, may be configured to be reserved and stored up to four times (the number of times that can be reserved and stored can be changed for each model), and the normal reserved display device may be configured to be composed of two LEDs (normal reserved lamps), and when one variable display of the normal pattern display device 41 is reserved, the normal reserved lamp on the left side (inner circumference of the game area) is lit, when two times are reserved, the normal reserved lamps on the left and right are lit, when three times are reserved, the normal reserved lamp on the left side flashes and the normal reserved lamp on the right side is lit, and when four times are reserved, the normal reserved lamps on the left and right are lit. In a configuration that allows the variable display of the normal symbol display device 41 to be reserved and stored, if a new game ball passes through the through gate 34 during a jackpot state, the variable display for that ball is also reserved, and the normal reserved display device is directly controlled by the main control device 261, which serves as the main control means described below.

A general winning device 31 is disposed along the periphery of the play area at the bottom of the left side area. The general winning device 31 protrudes forward from the front of the play board 30, and has a winning hole on the upper side through which game balls can always win.

The game board 30 is also fitted with a rail 50, which is made up of an inner rail component 51 and an outer rail component 52 and guides the game balls launched from the launching device 60 to the top of the game board 30. As a result, the game balls launched in response to the rotation of the handle 18 are guided through the launch rail 61 and rail 50 into the game area formed between the game board 30 and the glass unit 137.

A return ball prevention member 53 is attached to the tip portion (upper left in FIG. 4) of the inner rail component 51. This prevents a game ball that has been guided from the rail 50 into the play area from returning back into the rail 50. In addition, a return rubber 54 is attached to approximately the tip portion (upper right in FIG. 4) of the outer rail component 52. A game ball that is launched with a force greater than a predetermined value will hit the return rubber 54 and be returned, for example, toward approximately the center of the game board 30.

In addition, in this embodiment, the outer rail component 52 ends at the top right of the game board 30, and the inner rail component 51 ends at the bottom right of the game board 30. Therefore, the play area is defined by the rail 50 and the inner circumferential surface of the window hole 39 of the resin base 38. However, since the game ball shot out by the launching device 60 may flow back up the rail 50 until it passes through the return ball prevention member 53, the parallel portion of the inner and outer rail components 51, 52 is excluded from the play area.

As shown in FIG. 3, a ball passage unit 70 is provided on the rear side of the front frame 14, below the window portion 101. The ball passage unit 70 includes a lower tray communication passage 71 that connects the payout mechanism unit 352 (described later) to the lower payout outlet 16 of the lower tray 15, and an upper tray communication passage 73 that connects the payout mechanism unit 352 to the upper tray 19.

Furthermore, a launching ball passage 74 is provided that connects the upper tray 19 and the ball delivery device 63 and guides the game balls stored in the upper tray 19 to the ball delivery device 63. The launching ball passage 74 (which may be downstream of the upper tray 19) is formed with a communication hole (not shown) that connects with the lower tray communication passage 71, and is provided with an upper tray shutter (not shown) that opens and closes the communication hole. The upper tray shutter is always biased toward a closed position that closes the communication hole by a biasing means (not shown). Furthermore, the upper tray shutter is configured to be linked to the ball removal button 123, and to be displaced to an open position that opens the communication hole when the ball removal button 123 is pressed.

As shown in FIG. 4, there is a gap of a predetermined distance between the launch rail 61 provided on the front side of the inner frame 12 and the rail 50 (outer rail component 52), and the ball passage unit 70 of the front frame 14 is formed with a foul ball passage 72 that guides game balls that fall through the gap to the lower tray 15. As a result, if a game ball launched from the launch device 60 does not reach the return ball prevention member 53 and returns up the rail 50 as a foul ball, the foul ball is discharged to the lower tray 15 via the foul ball passage 72.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lower tray 15 is formed with an outlet 15a through which game balls stored in the lower tray 15 can be discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10, and is provided with a lower tray shutter 15b for opening and closing the outlet 15a. The lower tray shutter 15b is always biased toward a closed position that closes the outlet 15a by a biasing means (not shown). Furthermore, the lower tray shutter 15b is configured to work in conjunction with the ball removal lever 25 (for example, connected or integrally formed), and is configured to be displaced to an open position that opens the outlet 15a when the ball removal lever 25 is pressed (to the left).

In addition, the lower tray 15 is equipped with a holding means (not shown) capable of holding the lower tray shutter 15b in the open position, so that the ejection port 15a can be maintained in an open state even if the player does not continue to press the ball removal lever 25. Note that an example of the holding means is a configuration in which the ball removal lever 25 is fully pressed toward the open position to engage with a predetermined portion of the ball removal lever 25 and the lower tray shutter 15b, and the ball removal lever 25 is then fully pressed toward the open position again from this engaged state to release the engaged state.

3 and 4, the reference numeral 67 denotes a payout passage for guiding the game balls paid out by the payout mechanism 352 described later to the front of the inner frame 12, and is divided into a passage leading to the upper tray communication passage 73 (upper tray 19) and a passage leading to the lower tray communication passage 71 (lower tray 15). A shutter 68 is provided below the payout passage 67, and when the front frame 14 is open, the shutter 68 protrudes forward by the biasing force of a spring or the like, so as to almost close the outlet of the payout passage 67. When the front frame 14 is closed, the shutter 68 is pushed open by the rear end of the inlet side of the lower tray communication passage 71. The inlets (ball inlet portions) of the lower tray communication passage 71 and the upper tray communication passage 73 are adjacent to each other, and when the front frame 14 is closed, the inlets and the payout passage 67 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance, allowing the game balls to pass through the gap between them. Therefore, when the upper tray 19 and the upper tray connecting passage 73 become full of game balls, the game balls that are paid out flow into the lower tray connecting passage 71 (overflowing into the entrance side of the lower tray connecting passage 71) and are paid out through the lower tray connecting passage 71 to the lower tray 15.

In addition, the ball passage unit 70 is provided with a full detection switch (not shown) that detects game balls located in the lower tray connecting passage 71. The presence of the full detection switch makes it possible to know that the lower tray 15 is full of game balls (that the lower tray 15 is full of game balls and game balls are stuck in the lower tray connecting passage 71). In this embodiment, based on the full detection switch continuously detecting game balls for a predetermined period of time, an error notification is controlled to inform the player that the lower tray 15 is full using a display or sound on the decorative pattern display device 42. When the retention of game balls in the lower tray connecting passage 71 is resolved and game balls are no longer detected by the full detection switch (when they are not detected continuously for a predetermined period of time), the error notification state is released.

Next, the rear configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. On the rear of the pachinko machine 10, various control boards are arranged vertically and horizontally, with some parts overlapping front to back, and further, a game ball supply device (payout mechanism) that supplies game balls, a resin protective cover, etc. are attached. The payout mechanism and protective cover are integrated into one unit, and since the resin part is generally sometimes referred to as the back pack, this unit will be referred to here as the "back pack unit 203".

First, the rear structure of the game board 30 will be described. As shown in Figure 6, a resin frame cover 213 that covers the central unit 401 from behind (see Figure 4) is provided on the rear side of the central unit 401 (see Figure 4) that is disposed corresponding to the through hole in the center of the game board 30 and protrudes rearward. In addition, a sub-control device 262 is housed in a transparent resin board box 262a on the rear side of the frame cover 213 and is removably attached. An LED control board that drives LEDs and the like built into the central unit 401 is provided inside the frame cover 213.

Below the frame cover 213, a back frame set 215 is attached to the game board 30 so as to cover the general winning device 31, the variable winning device 32, and the start winning devices 33a, 33b, etc. from behind. The back frame set 215 is equipped with a ball recovery mechanism (not shown) for recovering game balls that have won in the various winning ports. The game balls recovered by this ball recovery mechanism are guided to the discharge passage section 217, which will be described later, and are discharged from the discharge chute of the discharge passage section 217 to the outside of the pachinko machine 10.

In addition, in this embodiment, the back frame set 215 functions as a mounting base for the main control device 261. More specifically, the board box 263 on which the main control device 261 is mounted is rotatably supported on the back frame set 215 and can be opened to the rear.

The main control device 261 is housed in a board box 263 made of a transparent resin material or the like. The board box 263 comprises a box base and a box cover that covers the opening of the box base, and the box base and box cover are connected by a sealing member. The board box 263 connected by the sealing member is configured so that it cannot be opened unless a specified trace is left behind. This makes it easy to discover whether the board box 263 has been tampered with.

The game board 30 is also provided with ball entry detection switches that detect game balls that enter various winning ports, such as the general winning device 31, in correspondence with the various winning ports. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, a general winning switch 221 is provided at a position corresponding to the general winning device 31, and a count switch 223 is provided at the variable winning device 32. A first ball entry detection switch 224a and a second start winning switch 224b are provided at the first start winning device 33a and the second start winning device 33b, respectively. Furthermore, a through gate switch 225 is provided at a position corresponding to the through gate 34.

Although not shown in the figure, the back frame set 215 is provided with a first board relay board that is electrically connected to the general winning switch 221, the count switch 223, and the through gate switch 225 via a cable connector. This first board relay board relays between the general winning switch 221, etc., and the main control device 261, and is electrically connected to the main control device 261 via a cable connector. In contrast, the first start winning switch 224a and the second start winning switch 224b are directly connected to the main control device 261 via a connector cable without going through a relay board.

The detection results detected by the various ball entry detection switches are input into the main control device 261. The main control device 261 then transmits a payout command (number of game balls to be paid out) according to the winning status at each time to the payout control device 311, and a predetermined number of game balls are paid out based on the output signal from the payout control device 311 (except when detected by the through gate switch 225).

In addition, although not shown, the back surface of the game board 30 is provided with a large prize opening solenoid that opens the large prize opening of the variable prize device 32, and a solenoid that opens and closes the blade member 37 of the second start prize device 33b. Furthermore, the back frame set 215 is also provided with a second board relay board (not shown) that relays these solenoids and motors to the main control device 261.

Next, the configuration of the back pack unit 203 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the back pack unit 203 is an integrated unit of a resin-molded back pack 351 and a game ball payout mechanism 352. The back pack unit 203 is supported so as to be openable and closable on the left side (right side in FIG. 5) of the inner frame 12, and can be opened rearward around an opening/closing axis that extends vertically. In addition, an external terminal board 240 is provided on the upper left side (upper right side in FIG. 5) of the back pack unit 203.

The external terminal board 240 is provided with multiple external connection terminals for relaying various information transmissions to the hall computer of the gaming hall, etc. For convenience, no reference numbers are provided, but for example, terminals for outputting information regarding the current gaming state (jackpot state, guaranteed bonus mode, etc.), terminals for outputting information regarding the opening of the front frame 14 and inner frame 12 detected by the opening detection switches 91, 92 described below, terminals for outputting information regarding various error states such as ball entry error, lower tray full error, no ball in the tank error, and payout error, and terminals for outputting information regarding the number of winning balls paid out from the payout control device 311 are provided.

The back pack 351 is integrally molded from, for example, ABS resin, and includes a protective cover portion 354 that protrudes to the rear of the pachinko machine 10 and has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover portion 354 is closed on the left and right sides and the top, and only the bottom is open, and is large enough to cover at least the frame cover 213. However, in this embodiment, the protective cover portion 354 is configured to also cover the top and right portions (the left portion in FIG. 5) of the board box 263. As a result, when the back pack unit 203 is in the closed state, the sealing member provided on the right portion of the board box 263 and the terminal portion (board side connector) provided along the upper edge of the main control device 261 are covered.

The payout mechanism 352 is disposed so as to bypass the protective cover 354. That is, above the protective cover 354, a tank 355 is provided with an opening on the upper side, and the tank 355 is successively replenished with game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall. Below the tank 355, a tank rail 356 is connected, which has, for example, two horizontal rows of ball passages and is gently inclined toward the downstream side, and a case rail 357 is connected vertically to the downstream side of the tank rail 356. The payout device 358 is provided at the most downstream part of the case rail 357, and the required number of game balls are appropriately paid out by a predetermined electrical configuration such as a payout motor. The game balls paid out from the payout device 358 are then supplied to the upper tray 19, etc.

The dispensing mechanism unit 352 is also provided with a dispensing relay board 381 that relays dispensing command signals from the dispensing control device 311 to the dispensing device 358, and a power switch board 382 that takes in main power from the outside. The power switch board 382 is supplied with main power, for example, 24 V AC, via a voltage converter, and the power is turned on or off by switching the power switch 382a.

Below the back pack unit 203 (base box 263), a lower frame set 251 is provided, which is supported on the left side (right side in FIG. 5) of the inner frame 12 and can be opened to the rear. As shown in FIG. 6, the lower frame set 251 is formed with a discharge passage section 217 into which the game balls collected by the above-mentioned ball collection mechanism flow, and a discharge chute (not shown) for discharging the game balls to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 is formed at the most downstream part of the discharge passage section 217. In other words, the game balls that have won in each winning port of the general winning device 31, etc. are collected through the ball collection mechanism of the back frame set 215, and are further discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 through the discharge chute of the discharge passage section 217. The out port 36 is also connected to the discharge passage section 217, and game balls that have not won in any winning port are also discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 through the discharge chute. In this embodiment, the back pack unit 203 and the lower frame set 251 are configured as separate bodies and can be opened and closed independently, but the back pack unit 203 and the lower frame set 251 may also be formed integrally.

As shown in FIG. 5, the power supply/launch control device 310, the payout control device 311, and the CR unit connection board 314 are removably attached in a stacked manner on the back side of the lower frame set 251. The power supply/launch control device 310 includes a launch control circuit 312 and a power supply circuit 313, and is housed in a board box 313a and fixed to the back side of the lower frame set 251.

The dispensing control device 311 is housed in a board box 311a and is fixed to the rear side of the board box 313a (power supply/launch control device 310). The board box 311a housing the dispensing control device 311 is provided with a sealing member, similar to the board box 263 housing the main control device 261 described above, so that evidence that the board box 311a has been opened remains.

In addition, the CR unit connection board 314 is housed in board box 314a and fixed to the back side of board box 313a (power supply and launch control device 310). Each of the board boxes 311a, 313a, and 314a is made of a transparent resin material or the like, so that the inside can be seen.

The payout control device 311 is also provided with a state return switch 321 that protrudes outward from the base box 311a. For example, when the state return switch 321 is pressed in the event of a payout error, such as a ball jam in the payout motor, the payout motor rotates forward and reverse, and the ball jam is resolved (returning to the normal state).

The power supply circuit 313 is further provided with a RAM erase switch 323 that protrudes outward from the circuit board box 313a. This pachinko machine 10 has a backup function, so that in the unlikely event of a power outage, the state at the time of the power outage is retained, and when power is restored after the power outage, the state at the time of the power outage can be restored. Therefore, since the state before the power outage is stored and retained when the power is turned off in the normal manner (for example, when the game hall closes), if you want to return to the initial state when the power is turned on, turn on the power while pressing the RAM erase switch 323.

As shown in FIG. 6, a locking device 600 is provided on the rear side of the right side of the inner frame 12. The locking device 600 has a cylinder lock 700 (see FIG. 1, etc.) exposed on the front side of the front frame 14. The inner frame 12 can be unlocked by inserting a key into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 700 and rotating it in one direction, and the front frame 14 can be unlocked by rotating it in the other direction. In this embodiment, the inner frame 12 is locked to the outer frame 11, and the front frame 14 is locked to the inner frame 12.

As described above, the right frame component 11d of the outer frame 11 has an extended wall 83 formed thereon that covers the entire upper and lower sections corresponding to the locking device 600 from the rear side of the inner frame 12 (see FIG. 5). This makes it difficult to insert a wire or the like from the rear side of the outer frame 11 and operate the locking device 600 with the wire or the like. As a result, it is possible to improve defensive performance. Furthermore, the extended wall 83 is configured to cover the right end (the left end in FIG. 5) of the back pack unit 203 and the lower frame set 251 from the rear side, and when the inner frame 12 is in a closed state, the back pack unit 203 and the lower frame set 251 cannot be opened.

As shown in FIG. 4, a front frame open detection switch 91 for detecting the opening of the front frame 14 is provided at the lower right side of the front side of the inner frame 12 (to the right of the launching device 60), and as shown in FIG. 5, an inner frame open detection switch 92 for detecting the opening of the inner frame 12 is provided at the lower right side of the back side of the inner frame 12 (lower left in FIG. 5). The front frame open detection switch 91 and the inner frame open detection switch 92 each have a detection unit that can be inserted and removed from the switch main body, and the front frame open detection switch 91 is provided so that its detection unit faces forward, and the inner frame open detection switch 92 is provided so that its detection unit faces backward. When the detection unit is protruding from the switch main body, it outputs an ON signal to the main control device 261, and when the detection unit is pressed toward the switch main body and is inserted into the switch main body, it outputs an OFF signal to the main control device 261. In other words, when the front frame 14 is closed, the detection part of the front frame open detection switch 91 is pressed by the back surface of the front frame 14, turning it to the OFF state, and when the front frame 14 is opened, the detection part returns to the protruding state and turns it to the ON state. Similarly, when the inner frame 12 is closed, the detection part of the inner frame open detection switch 92 is pressed by the pressing part 86 integrally formed with the receiving part 85 of the outer frame 11, turning it to the OFF state, and when the inner frame 12 is opened, the detection part returns to the protruding state and turns it to the ON state.

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10. The main control device 261, which serves as the main control means, is equipped with a CPU 501, which is a one-chip microcomputer that is an arithmetic device. The CPU 501 contains a ROM 502 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the CPU 501, a RAM 503 that is a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control programs stored in the ROM 502 are executed, and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data transmission/reception circuit. However, the CPU, ROM, and RAM may not be integrated into a single chip, and each function may be integrated into a chip.

RAM 503 includes a stack area in which the contents of the internal registers of CPU 501 and the return addresses of control programs executed by CPU 501 are stored, a working area (working region) in which various flags, counters, I/O values, etc. are stored, and a backup area 503a.

In addition, the RAM 503 is configured to be able to retain (back up) data even after the power to the pachinko machine 10 is turned off by receiving a backup voltage from the power supply circuit 313, and all data stored in the stack area, working area, and backup area 503a is backed up.

The backup area 503a is an area for storing values such as the stack pointer, each register, and I/O at the time of power off (including the time of power off; the same applies below) so that the state of the pachinko machine 10 can be restored to the state before the power was off when the power is turned back on in the event that the power is cut off due to a power outage or the like. Writing to the backup area 503a is performed by the main processing when the power is turned off, and conversely, the restoration of each value written to the backup area 503a is performed by the main processing when the power is turned on (including the time when the power is turned on after the power is cleared; the same applies below). Note that the NMI terminal (non-maskable interrupt terminal) of the CPU 501 is configured to receive a power outage signal SK1 output from the power outage monitoring circuit 542 (described later) when the power is turned off due to a power outage or the like, and power outage processing (NMI interrupt processing) is immediately executed when a power outage occurs.

Note that as long as data stored in at least the stack area and backup area 503a is backed up, it is not necessary to back up data stored in all areas. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which data stored in the stack area and backup area 503a is backed up, but data stored in the working area is not backed up.

The CPU 501, which incorporates the ROM 502 and RAM 503, is connected to an input/output port 505 via a bus line 504 consisting of an address bus, a data bus, etc. The input/output port 505 is connected to the RAM erase switch circuit 543, the payout control device 311, the sub-control device 262, the first and second special display devices 43a, 43b, the normal symbol display device 41, etc., which will be described later. With this configuration, the special display devices 43a, 43b, and the normal symbol display device 41 described above are directly controlled by the main control device 261.

For convenience, various relay boards and the like are not shown, but the input/output port 505 is connected to various detection switches such as the general winning switch 221, the count switch 223, the first ball detection switch 224a, the second start winning switch 224b, the through gate switch 225, various detection switches of the central unit 401, and various detection switches such as the open position detection sensor 465, various boards such as the power supply/launch control device 310, the payout control device 311, and the sub-control device 262, and various electrical components such as solenoids for opening and closing the variable winning device 32 and the second start winning device 33b (wing member 37). In other words, the main control device 261 is provided with multiple terminal sections (board side connectors) for connecting the connectors of various cable connectors, and these terminal sections and the like constitute the input/output port 505.

The sub-control device 262 (sub-control board) as a sub-control means comprises a CPU 551 which is an arithmetic unit, a ROM 552 which stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the CPU 551, a RAM 553 which is a memory which temporarily stores various data etc. when the control programs stored in the ROM 552 are executed, an input/output port 554, a bus line 555, and also various other circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data transmission/reception circuit (not shown). The RAM 553 is a memory which temporarily stores work data and flags used when the various programs are executed by the CPU 551.

The input/output port 554 is connected to the CPU 551, ROM 552, and RAM 553 via the bus line 555, and is also connected to the display control device 45. In addition, the input/output port 554 is connected to the speaker SP, the performance button 125, the cross button 126, the circular illumination unit 102, and the error display lamp 104, etc.

The CPU 551 of the sub-controller 262 executes effects such as lamps and sounds based on command signals sent from the main controller 261. As described above, in this embodiment, the first and second special display devices 43a, 43b controlled by the main controller 261 inform the player that a jackpot has been won, and the illumination device and sound output device (speaker SP) controlled by the sub-controller 262 perform effects in accordance with the changing display of special symbols on the special display devices 43a, 43b.

The payout control device 311 controls the payout of prize balls and loan balls by the payout device 358. The CPU 511, which is a calculation device, is equipped with a ROM 512 that stores the control program executed by the CPU 511, fixed value data, etc., and a RAM 513 that is used as a work memory, etc.

The RAM 513 of the payout control device 311, like the RAM 503 of the main control device 261, has a stack area in which the contents of the internal registers of the CPU 511 and the return addresses of the control programs executed by the CPU 511 are stored, a working area (working region) in which various flags, counters, I/O values, etc. are stored, and a backup area 513a.

RAM 513 is configured so that it can retain (back up) data even after the power to the pachinko machine 10 is turned off by receiving a backup voltage from the power supply circuit 313, and all data stored in the stack area, work area, and backup area 513a is backed up. Note that as long as data stored in at least the stack area and backup area 513a is backed up, it is not necessary to back up data stored in all areas. For example, the data stored in the stack area and backup area 513a may be backed up, and data stored in the work area may not be backed up.

The backup area 513a is an area for storing values such as the stack pointer, each register, and I/O at the time of power off, so that when the power is turned back on in the event that the power is cut off due to a power outage or the like, the state of the pachinko machine 10 is restored to the state before the power was cut off. Writing to this backup area 513a is performed by the main processing when the power is turned off, and the restoration of each value written to the backup area 513a is performed by the main processing when the power is turned on. Note that, like the CPU 501 of the main control device 261, the NMI terminal of the CPU 511 is configured to receive a power outage signal SK1 from the power outage monitoring circuit 542 when the power is cut off due to a power outage or the like, and when the power outage signal SK1 is input to the CPU 511, an NMI interrupt process is immediately executed as a power outage process.

The working area is provided with a payout permission flag that sets permission for the payout control device 311 to pay out prize balls, a command reception flag that is set when a command sent from the main control device 261 is received, and a command buffer in which commands sent from the main control device 261 are stored.

The payout permission flag is a flag that sets permission to pay out prize balls; a specific command to permit the payout of prize balls is sent from the main control unit 261, and the flag is turned on when the specific command is received, and turned off when the initial setting process is performed or the state before the power was cut off is restored. In this embodiment, the specific commands are a payout initialization command that instructs the initial process of the RAM 513 of the payout control unit 311, a prize ball command that instructs the payout of prize balls, and a payout return command that is sent when power is restored to the main control unit 261.

The command reception flag is a flag that checks whether the dispensing control device 311 has received a command, and is turned on when any command is received. Like the dispensing permission flag, it is turned off when the initial setting process is performed or the state is restored to before the power was cut off, and is also turned off when the received command is judged by the command judgment process.

The command buffer is composed of a ring buffer that temporarily stores commands sent from the main control unit 261. The ring buffer has a specified memory area, and commands are stored in a regular pattern from the beginning to the end of the memory area. When commands have been stored in all of the memory area, the command is updated by returning to the beginning of the memory area. Therefore, when a command is stored or read, the storage pointer and read pointer in the command buffer are updated, and commands are stored and read based on each pointer.

The CPU 511, which incorporates the ROM 512 and RAM 513, is connected to an input/output port 515 via a bus line 514 consisting of an address bus and a data bus. The input/output port 515 is connected to a RAM erase switch circuit 543, a main control device 261, a power supply/launch control device 310 (launch control circuit 312), a payout device 358, a CR unit connection board 314, etc.

The CR unit connection board 314 is electrically connected to the ball lending operation section (lending switch 121 and return switch 122) on the front of the pachinko machine 10, the CR unit control device of the CR unit (card reader unit, ball lending unit) located to the side of the pachinko machine 10 in an amusement hall or the like, and the payout control device 311.

Although the loan switch 121, return switch 122, and balance display unit 124 are mounted on the pachinko machine 10, they are essentially included in the CR unit since they are components related to the operation of loaning game balls by the CR unit. Also, although the CR unit connection board 314 is mounted on the pachinko machine 10, they are essentially included in the CR unit since they electrically connect between the CR unit control device and the loan switch 121, return switch 122, and balance display unit 124, and between the CR unit control device and the payout control device 311.

When information regarding the player's ball lending operation using the ball lending operation unit or a button on the main body of the CR unit is input to the CR unit control device, and the game value balance is stored on a card, which is a recording medium (game value medium) inserted in the CR unit, the balance on the card is subtracted and a signal requesting the lending of a number of game balls corresponding to the subtraction is output to the payout control device 311. Note that the recording medium of the CR unit is not limited to a card type, and may be a coin type or stick type.

The payout control device 311 is also configured to periodically (e.g., every 2 msec) output a CR unit connection signal indicating that the CR unit connection board 314 and the CR unit are electrically connected to the launch control circuit 312 of the power supply/launch control device 310.

The launch control circuit 312 of the power supply/launch control device 310 permits or prohibits the launch of game balls by the launch device 60. The handle 18, the payout control device 311, and the main control device 261 are electrically connected to the launch control circuit 312. The launch control circuit 312 is also configured to be able to input from the handle 18 a dial position signal from a variable resistor indicating the amount of rotation (rotation angle) of the handle 18 (rotation control body 18a), a touch signal from a touch sensor indicating that the player is touching the handle 18, and a launch switch signal indicating that the player is not operating the stop lever 18b. The launch control circuit 312 is also configured to be able to input from the payout control device 311 a CR unit connection signal indicating that the CR unit connection board 314 and the CR unit are electrically connected.

Then, the launch control circuit 312 outputs a launch status signal to the main control device 261 on condition that the touch signal, launch switch signal, and CR unit connection signal are input, and the main control device 261 outputs a launch permission signal and a ball feed signal to the launch control circuit 312 on condition that the launch status signal is input. When the launch status signal is input, the main control device 261 outputs a launch permission signal at 0.6 second intervals.

The launch control circuit 312 is configured to drive the ball delivery device 63 and deliver the game ball to the launch position when a ball delivery signal is input. The ball delivery device 63 may be provided with a preparation ball detection sensor capable of detecting whether or not a game ball is present at the launch position, and the ball delivery device 63 may be configured not to drive (not to deliver the game ball to the launch position even if a ball delivery signal is received) when the preparation ball detection sensor detects that a game ball is already present at the launch position.

Furthermore, the launch control circuit 312 is configured to drive the launch device 60 (launch solenoid) on the condition that a touch signal, a launch switch signal, a CR unit connection signal, (dial position signal), and a launch permission signal are input. This causes the game ball set in the launch position to be shot out by the launch device 60 with a strength based on the dial position signal.

The power supply circuit 313 also includes a power supply unit 541 that supplies power to each part of the pachinko machine 10, a power outage monitoring circuit 542 that monitors power interruptions due to power outages, etc., and a RAM erase switch circuit 543 that is connected to the RAM erase switch 323.

The power supply unit 541 supplies the necessary operating power to the main control unit 261, the dispensing control unit 311, etc., through a power supply path not shown. In summary, the power supply unit 541 takes in 24V AC power supplied from an external source, generates a +12V power supply to drive various switches and motors, a +5V power supply for logic, a backup power supply for RAM backup, etc., and supplies these +12V power supply, +5V power supply, and backup power supplies to the main control unit 261, the dispensing control unit 311, etc. Note that operating power is supplied to the various switches, motors, etc. via the control devices to which they are connected.

The power outage monitoring circuit 542 is a circuit that outputs a power outage signal SK1 to each NMI terminal of the CPU 501 of the main control unit 261 and the CPU 511 of the dispensing control device 311 when the power is cut off due to a power outage or the like. The power outage monitoring circuit 542 monitors the voltage of 24 volts DC, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply unit 541, and when this voltage falls below 22 volts, it determines that a power outage (power outage) has occurred and outputs a power outage signal SK1 to the main control unit 261 and the dispensing control device 311. By outputting this power outage signal SK1, the main control unit 261 and the dispensing control device 311 recognize the occurrence of a power outage and execute power outage processing (NMI interrupt processing).

The power supply unit 541 is configured to maintain the output of 5 volts, which is the drive voltage for the control system, at a normal value for a period of time sufficient to execute the power outage processing, even after the stable 24 volt DC voltage falls below 22 volts. Therefore, the main control unit 261 and the dispensing control unit 311 can execute and complete the power outage processing normally.

The RAM clear switch circuit 543 is a circuit that takes in the switch signal of the RAM clear switch 323 and clears the backup data in the RAM 503 of the main control unit 261 and the RAM 513 of the payout control unit 311 depending on the state of the switch 323. When the RAM clear switch 323 is pressed, the RAM clear switch circuit 543 outputs a RAM clear signal SK2 to the main control unit 261 and the payout control unit 311. When the pachinko machine 10 is powered on with the RAM clear switch 323 pressed (including powering on after a power outage is resolved), the data in the RAMs 503, 513 of the main control unit 261 and the payout control unit 311 are cleared.

Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described. In this embodiment, the CPU 501 provided in the main control device 261 as the main control means performs a lottery using various counter information during a game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, a win/loss random number counter C1 as a win/loss random number generating means used for a win/loss lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot state will be generated, a type determination counter C2 used for determining the type of jackpot (type lottery), a variation selection counter C3 used for determining the type of variation display (variation time, etc.) of the special display devices 43a and 43b, an initial value random number counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the win/loss random number counter C1, a normal pattern random number counter C4 used for a ball entry support lottery to determine whether or not the second start winning device 33b will be opened, and a normal pattern variation selection counter C5 used for determining the type of variation display (variation time) of the normal pattern display device 41 are used.

Counters C1, C2, C3, CINI, C4, and C5 are loop counters that add 1 to the previous value each time they are updated, and return to the lower limit of 0 after reaching the upper limit. Each counter is updated periodically, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a specified area of RAM 503 (except for the random number initial value counter CINI).

When the variable display of the special display devices 43a, 43b and the normal symbol display device 41 can be reserved and stored, the RAM 503 is provided with a special variable reserve area as a reserve storage means in which the values of the win/lose random number counter C1, the type determination counter C2, and the variable selection counter C3 are stored, and a normal variable reserve area in which the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is stored. Furthermore, when the variable display of the normal symbol display device 41 can be reserved and stored four times, the normal variable reserve area has four reserve areas (reserved areas 1 to 4) and one execution area, and the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is stored in chronological order in accordance with the passing history of the game ball to the through gate 34 in each reserve area of the normal variable reserve area.

In addition, when the first and second variable displays can each be stored for four times, the special variable reserve area has eight reserve areas (reserved areas 1 to 8) and one execution area. In each reserve area of the special variable reserve area, the values of the win/lose random number counter C1, the type determination counter C2, and the variable selection counter C3 are stored in chronological order according to the winning history of the game balls in the first start winning device 33a (first winning port 332 and second winning port 333) and the second start winning device 33b.

When the change display starts, a process is performed to shift the data (change information) stored in the special change pending area. This data shift process is a process to shift the data stored in the first to eighth pending areas of the special change pending area to the execution area side in order, and the data in each pending area is shifted in the following order: pending area 1 → execution area, pending area 2 → pending area 1, pending area 3 → pending area 2, and pending area 4 → pending area 3. Then, the change display is set based on the change information stored in the execution area of the special change pending area, and the set change display is started. Note that each pending area and execution area is provided with a first change flag and a second change flag that indicate whether the stored change information corresponds to the first change display or the second change display, and the settings of the first change flag and the second change flag are also shifted in the data shift process.

To explain each counter in detail, the win/loss random number counter C1 is configured to be incremented by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 9, and after reaching the upper limit value (i.e., 9) as the closing value, it returns to 0, which is the lower limit value as the opening value. Normally, when the win/loss random number counter C1 goes around once, the value of the initial value random number counter CINI at that time is read as the next initial value of the win/loss random number counter C1. Note that the initial value random number counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the win/loss random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 9), and is updated once for each timer interrupt and repeatedly updated within the remaining time of normal processing. On the other hand, the win/loss random number counter C1 is updated periodically (once for each timer interrupt in this embodiment), and the value of the win/loss random number counter C1 is stored in the win/loss random number counter buffer. Then, when the game ball enters the first start winning device 33a or the second start winning device 33b, the value of the win/loss random number counter C1 stored in the win/loss random number counter buffer is stored in the special variable area.

The special variable area in this embodiment is a memory area (similar to an execution area of the special variable pending area when the variable display is reserved) that stores counter values and the like that are referenced when performing various controls such as a winning/losing lottery and setting the variable display of the special display devices 43a and 43b based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning device 33a and the second start winning device 33b. When the variable display of the special display devices 43a and 43b ends, the stored information in the special variable area is erased or allowed to be overwritten.

In this embodiment, the number of values of the winning/losing random number counter C1 that result in a jackpot is 10, and the values are "0 to 9." In other words, when a game ball enters the start winning device 33a or 33b, there is a 100% chance of winning in the winning/losing lottery.

The type determination counter C2 is configured to be incremented by one within a range of, for example, 0 to 4, and to return to the lower limit of 0 after reaching the upper limit (i.e., 4). ROM 502 also has a first type determination table and a second type determination table that are referenced when determining which jackpot type the value of the type determination counter C2 corresponds to. When a jackpot is won in the win/lose lottery, the first type determination table is referenced in normal mode, and the second type determination table is referenced in time-saving mode. When the first type determination table is referenced, "15RS" is selected when the value of the type determination counter C2 is "0 to 4". When the second type determination table is referenced, "15RN" is selected when the value of the type determination counter C2 is "0 to 4".

The type determination counter C2 is updated periodically (in this embodiment, once for each timer interrupt), and the value of the type determination counter C2 is stored in the type determination counter buffer. Then, when the game ball enters the first start winning device 33a or the second start winning device 33b, the value of the type determination counter C2 stored in the type determination counter buffer is stored in the special variable area of the RAM 503.

In addition, the type determination counter C2 and the processing related thereto may be omitted, and the jackpot in normal mode may simply be set to "15RS" and the jackpot in time-saving mode may simply be set to "15RN".

The variation selection counter C3 is configured to be incremented by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 19, and to return to the lower limit of 0 after reaching the upper limit (i.e., 19). In this embodiment, the variation selection counter C3 determines the variation time of the variation display of the special display devices 43a and 43b and the content of the performance associated with the variation display. The ROM 502 is provided with a first variation judgment table and a second variation judgment table that are referenced when determining which variation type the value of the variation selection counter C3 corresponds to. When a jackpot is won in a win/lose lottery, a variation count counter that counts how many times the variation display of the special display devices 43a and 43b has been performed since the end of the previous jackpot state is checked, and if it is one time, the first variation judgment table is referenced, and otherwise the second variation judgment table is referenced. When the first variation judgment table is referenced, if the value of the variation selection counter C3 is "0 to 19", the first special jackpot teaching performance (relatively long and relatively flashy) is selected. When the second variation judgment table is referenced, if the value of the variation selection counter C3 is "0 to 16", a normal jackpot instruction presentation is selected, and if the value of the variation selection counter C3 is "17 to 19", a second special jackpot instruction presentation (shorter and less showy than the first special jackpot instruction, but more showy and longer than the normal jackpot instruction presentation) is selected. Note that if a configuration is adopted in which the winning probability of the winning/losing lottery can be changed by a specific operation (by amusement hall personnel, etc.), a variation judgment table may be prepared for each corresponding selection probability, and the proportion of selected presentations may be different.

The variable selection counter C3 is updated periodically (in this embodiment, once per timer interrupt), and the value of the variable selection counter C3 is stored in the variable selection counter buffer. Then, when the game ball wins the first start winning device 33a or the second start winning device 33b, the value of the variable selection counter C3 stored in the variable selection counter buffer is stored in the special variable area of the RAM 503.

The normal symbol random number counter C4 is configured as a loop counter that increments by one within the range of, for example, 0 to 99, and returns to the lower limit of 0 after reaching the upper limit (i.e., 99). The normal symbol random number counter C4 is updated periodically (in this embodiment, once for each timer interrupt), and the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is obtained when the game ball passes through either the left or right through gate 34. The number of random numbers that are winning in a low ball entry state is 5, and the range is "0 to 4". On the other hand, the number of random numbers that are winning in a high ball entry state is 50, and the range is "0 to 49". In other words, in this embodiment, a low ball entry support judgment table that is referenced in the entry support lottery in a low ball entry state and a high ball entry support judgment table that is referenced in the entry support lottery in a high ball entry state are prepared in the ROM 502.

The normal symbol random number counter C4 is periodically updated, and the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is stored in the normal symbol random number counter buffer. Then, when the game ball passes through the through gate 34, the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 stored in the normal symbol random number counter buffer is stored in the special variable area of the RAM 503.

The normal symbol variation selection counter C5 is configured as a loop counter that is incremented by one within the range of 0 to 29, and returns to the lower limit of 0 after reaching the upper limit (i.e., 29). The variation selection counter C5 is updated periodically (in this embodiment, once for each timer interrupt), and the value of the normal symbol random number counter C4 is obtained when the game ball passes through either the left or right through gate 34. In this embodiment, the normal symbol variation selection counter C5 determines the variation time of the normal symbol display device 41. The ROM 502 is provided with a first normal symbol variation determination table and a second normal symbol variation determination table that are referenced when determining which variation type the value of the normal symbol variation selection counter C5 corresponds to.

If the player wins the ball entry support lottery, the first normal map fluctuation judgment table is referenced in normal mode, and the second normal map fluctuation judgment table is referenced in time-saving mode. When the first normal map fluctuation judgment table is referenced, if the value of the normal map fluctuation selection counter C5 is "0-15", a fluctuation time of 10 minutes is selected, if the value is "16-24", a fluctuation time of 9 minutes is selected, and if the value is "25-29", an fluctuation time of 8 minutes is selected. When the second normal map fluctuation judgment table is referenced, if the value of the normal map fluctuation selection counter C5 is "0-29", a fluctuation time of 1 second is selected.

The normal map fluctuation selection counter C5 is periodically updated, and the value of the normal map fluctuation selection counter C5 is stored in the normal map fluctuation selection counter buffer. Then, when the game ball passes through the through gate 34, the value of the normal map fluctuation selection counter C5 stored in the normal map fluctuation selection counter buffer is stored in the special fluctuation area of the RAM 503.

As described above, in this embodiment, the ball entry opening 404 of the central unit 401 is provided in the left side area of the game area, and the through gate 34 is provided in the right side area of the game area. For this reason, in the normal mode of play in which the game ball is entered into the central unit 401 and entered into the first start winning device 33a, the game ball does not basically pass through the through gate 34, and therefore, it is possible to practically eliminate a situation in which the second start winning device 33b is opened in the normal mode, and the game ball enters there and a jackpot state occurs (in the normal mode of this example, even if the game ball passes through the through gate 34, the second start winning device 33b may open for only 0.2 seconds once every 8 to 10 minutes with a probability of 1/20, and it is very disadvantageous for the player to launch the game ball into the right side area in the normal mode). Note that the size, range, type (number), etc. of each counter used in the above lottery and determination are merely examples and can be changed as desired.

Next, among the control processes executed by the CPU 501 in the main control device 261, the control processes related to the central unit 401 and the first start winning device 33a will be explained with reference to the flowchart. Note that the following processes are started periodically (for example, at 2 msec intervals).

First, the central unit 401 and the central unit ball detection process for grasping the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a will be described with reference to Figures 15 and 16. In step S101, it is determined whether or not the first ball entry detection switch 224a of the first start winning device 33a has been detected. If a positive determination is made in step S101, in step S102, a first ball entry detection flag is set to ON, indicating that the first ball entry detection switch 224a has been detected (that a game ball has entered the first start winning device 33a). After step S102, the process proceeds to step S111, which will be described later.

If the result of step S101 is negative, then in step S103, it is determined whether or not the second ball entry detection switch 446 of the second type non-electric role operation port 427 has been detected. If the result of step S103 is negative, the process proceeds to step S111, which will be described later.

On the other hand, if the result of step S103 is positive, a second ball entry detection flag is set to ON in step S104, indicating that the second ball entry detection switch 446 has detected a game ball (that is, a game ball has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427).

Next, in step S105, it is determined whether the value of the remaining ball counter, which counts the number of game balls present in the central unit 401 (first specific area 403), and the value of the fourth distribution incoming ball counter, which counts the number of game balls present in the fourth distribution device 410, are both "1" or greater.

If the answer is yes in step S105, in step S106, the second ball entry monitoring timer is set to keep track of the time from when the game ball is detected by the second ball entry detection switch 446 to when the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a is set to the open position (for example, a value equivalent to 3 seconds is set). Furthermore, in step S107, the remaining ball counter and the fourth distribution ball entry counter are decremented by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step S111, which will be described later.

In addition, if a negative judgment is made in step S105, that is, if it is judged that no game ball is present in the first specific area 403, or in a state in which it is judged that no game ball is present in the fourth distribution device 410, and it is judged that a game ball has entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427, a path abnormality flag is set to ON in step S108, indicating that the game ball is suspected of having entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427 via an illegal route.

In the next step S109, the error display lamp 104 is turned on, and other illumination parts such as the circular illumination part 102 are set to the corresponding state, and an error information signal is output to the hall computer of the game hall via the external terminal board 240, and the game is interrupted (the game is not allowed to proceed while maintaining the stored information (no new information is stored)). In particular, in the error processing of this embodiment, the switching solenoid 464 of the interlocking state change device 461 is set to a non-excited state. As a result, the switching part 463 of the interlocking state change device 461 protrudes into the interlocking passage 442, and passage through the interlocking passage 442 is disabled, while the game ball that has moved through the interlocking passage 442 is discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 without reaching the lever member 443.

The configuration for clearing the error state (a state in which play is interrupted) can be set appropriately for each model, for example, by turning the power of the pachinko machine 10 off and on, by operating the RAM clear switch 323, by turning the power off and on while operating the RAM clear switch 323, or by providing a dedicated operation unit for clearing the error state on the rear side of the inner frame 12, etc.

After step S109, this process (central unit ball detection process) is terminated. Note that an error notification section (which may be composed of multiple lamps or a 7-segment display device) capable of notifying the type of error that has occurred may be provided on the rear side of the inner frame 12.

Furthermore, after step S102 or step S107, or if a negative judgment is made in step S103, in step S110, it is judged whether or not the first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S110, in step S111, the values of the first distribution ball entry counter, which counts the number of game balls present in the first distribution device 407, and the remaining ball counter are each incremented by "1". As described above, in this embodiment, a game ball that enters the central unit 401 (first specific area 403) is always detected by the first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 and is guided to the first distribution device 407.

After step S111, or if a negative judgment is made in step S110, in step S112, it is judged whether or not the second distribution ball entry detection switch 449 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S112, in step S113, the value of the second distribution ball entry counter, which counts the number of game balls present in the second distribution device 408, is incremented by "1". Furthermore, in step S114, the value of the first distribution ball entry counter is decremented by "1".

After step S114, or if a negative judgment is made in step S112, in step S115, it is judged whether or not the third distribution ball entry detection switch 450 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S115, in step S116, the value of the third distribution ball entry counter, which counts the number of game balls present in the third distribution device 409, is incremented by "1". Furthermore, in step S117, the value of the second distribution ball entry counter is decremented by "1".

In addition, the remaining ball counter and the first to fourth distribution ball counters in this embodiment are configured to be able to take negative values.

After step S117, or if a negative judgment is made in step S115, in step S118, it is judged whether or not the fourth distribution ball entry detection switch 451 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S118, in step S119, the value of the fourth distribution ball entry counter is incremented by "1". Furthermore, in step S120, the value of the first distribution ball entry counter is decremented by "1".

After step S120, or if a negative judgment is made in step S118, in step S121, it is judged whether or not the first distribution discharge detection switch 452 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S121, in step S122, the values of the remaining ball counter and the first distribution entry ball counter are each decremented by "1".

After step S122, or if a negative judgment is made in step S121, in step S123, it is judged whether or not the second distribution discharge detection switch 453 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S123, in step S124, the values of the remaining ball counter and the second distribution entry ball counter are each decremented by "1".

After step S124, or if a negative judgment is made in step S123, in step S125, it is judged whether or not the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S125, in step S126, the values of the remaining ball counter and the third distribution incoming ball counter are each decremented by "1".

In the following step S127, the third center discharge flag is set to ON, indicating that the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 has detected the ball. Furthermore, in step S128, the first ball entry monitoring timer is set to keep track of the time from when the game ball is detected by the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 (or the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455) to when it is detected by the first ball entry detection switch 224a (for example, a value equivalent to one second is set).

After step S128, or if a negative judgment is made in step S125, in step S129, it is judged whether or not the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S129, in step S130, the values of the remaining ball counter and the third distribution incoming ball counter are each decremented by "1".

In the next step S131, the third side discharge flag is set to ON, indicating that the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 has detected the ball. In addition, in step S132, the first ball entry monitoring timer is set (for example, a value equivalent to 1.5 seconds is set).

After step S132, or if a negative judgment is made in step S129, in step S133, it is judged whether or not the fourth distribution discharge detection switch 456 has been detected. If a positive judgment is made in step S133, in step S134, the values of the remaining ball counter and the fourth distribution entry ball counter are each decremented by "1".

After step S134, or if a negative judgment is made in step S133, this process ends. Note that the function of counting the game balls in the first specific area 403 using the remaining ball counter and various detection switches corresponds to the remaining ball grasping means. Furthermore, the function of counting the game balls in the fourth distribution device 410 using the fourth distribution ball counter and various detection switches corresponds to the second corresponding remaining ball grasping means.

Next, the error detection process for identifying fraudulent activities and the like will be described with reference to FIG. 17. First, in step S201, it is determined whether or not vibrations of the pachinko machine 10 have been detected based on detection information from a vibration detection sensor (not shown) attached to the rear side of the game board 30 as vibration detection means.

If the result of step S201 is positive, then in step S202 it is determined whether the value of the remaining ball counter is equal to or greater than "1". If the result of step S202 is positive, i.e., if vibration occurs in the pachinko machine 10 when a gaming ball is present in the first specific area 403, then in step S203 a vibration error flag is set to ON, indicating that there is a suspicion that the player has attempted to affect the gaming ball moving through the first specific area 403 by shaking the pachinko machine 10.

After that, in step S204, error processing is performed, and then this process ends. Note that the error processing is basically the same process, and similar to the error processing in step S109 of the central unit ball detection process described above, an error is notified in the pachinko machine 10, the game is interrupted, and an error is notified to the outside of the pachinko machine 10.

If the result of step S202 is negative, i.e., if vibration is detected but no game ball is present in the first specific area 403, or if the result of step S201 is negative, then in step S205, it is determined whether or not magnetism has been detected based on the detection information from magnetic detection sensors (not shown) that serve as magnetic detection means provided at multiple locations on the game board 30 (including the central unit 401).

If a negative judgment is made in step S202, error processing is not performed because it is possible that, for example, a member of the amusement hall has opened or closed the front frame 14 or the inner frame 12, or that a player has come into contact with the pachinko machine 10 when sitting down or standing up from a chair installed in front of the pachinko machine 10.

If the result of step S205 is positive, then in step S206, a magnetic error flag is set to ON, indicating that the player is suspected of attempting to use a magnet or the like to affect the gaming ball moving through the first specific area 403. After step S206, the error processing of step S204 is performed, and then this processing is terminated.

If the result of step S205 is negative, then in step S207, it is determined whether or not a door open flag indicating that the front frame 14 or the inner frame 12 is open is set to on. The door open flag is set to on when either the front frame 14 or the inner frame 12 is open based on the detection information of the front frame open detection switch 91 and the inner frame open detection switch 92.

If the answer is YES in step S207, the door open flag is set OFF in step S208. Furthermore, in step S209, it is determined whether or not the blade member 415 is in the closed position based on the detection information of the open position detection sensor. If the answer is YES in step S209, the blade monitoring flag is set ON in step S210, which indicates that the blade member 415 is being monitored when at least one of the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12 is open.

After step S210, or if a negative judgment is made in step S207 or step S209, in step S211, it is judged whether or not a door closed flag indicating that both the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12 are closed is set to ON. The door closed flag is set to ON when both the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12 are closed based on the detection information of the front frame open detection switch 91 and the inner frame open detection switch 92.

If the answer is positive in step S211, the door close flag is set to OFF in step S212. Furthermore, in step S213, it is determined whether the blade monitoring flag is set to ON. If the answer is positive in step S213, it is determined in step S214 whether the blade member 415 is in the open position.

If the answer is yes in step S214, then in step S215, a door open error flag is set to ON, indicating that the blade member 415 may have been improperly set to the open position when at least one of the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12 is open. Then, in step S204, error processing is performed, and the process ends.

If a negative judgment is made in step S211, step S213, or step S214, then in step S216, it is determined whether the remaining ball counter and the first through fourth distribution ball counters have negative values.

If the result of step S216 is positive, in step S217, it is suspected that game balls have been illegally inserted into the first specific area 403, and a multi-ball error monitoring flag is set to ON, indicating that there is a high possibility of illegal detection by the first ball entry detection switch 224a of the first start winning device 33a or the second ball entry detection switch 446 of the second type non-electric role operation port 427. In the next step S218, a multi-ball error monitoring timer that measures the time since the multi-ball error monitoring flag is set to ON is set (for example, a value equivalent to 60 seconds is set). Note that when setting the multi-ball error monitoring timer, it may be configured to grasp the area (distribution devices 407 to 410) in which game balls exist, and set a value equivalent to the time corresponding to the most upstream area among the areas in which game balls exist (for example, 60 seconds for the first distribution device 407, 20 seconds for the third distribution device 409).

After step S218, or if a negative judgment is made in step S216, in step S219, it is judged whether or not the multi-ball error monitoring flag is set to ON. If a negative judgment is made in step S219, this process is terminated.

On the other hand, if the result of step S219 is positive, then in step S220 it is determined whether the first ball entry detection flag or the second ball entry detection flag has been set on. If the result of step S220 is positive, then in step S221 a multi-ball error flag is set on to indicate that there is a suspicion of improper detection by the first ball entry detection switch 224a or the second ball entry detection switch 446. Then, in step S204, error processing is performed, and then this process is terminated.

If the result of step S220 is negative, the multi-ball error monitoring timer is decremented by "1" in step S222. In the following step S223, it is determined whether the value of the multi-ball error monitoring timer is "0". If the result of step S223 is negative, the process ends. On the other hand, if the result of step S223 is positive, the multi-ball error monitoring flag is set to off in step S224, and then the process ends.

If a positive judgment is made in step S216, the multi-ball error flag may be set to ON to perform error processing. If this configuration is adopted, the multi-ball error monitoring flag, the multi-ball error monitoring timer, and the processing of step S219, etc. are omitted.

Next, the first ball entry process that is performed based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning device 33a will be described with reference to FIG. 18. First, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the first ball entry detection flag is set to ON. If the result of step S301 is positive, it is determined in step S302 whether or not the value of the first ball entry monitoring timer is greater than "0". If the result of step S302 is positive, that is, if one second has not yet passed since the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 was detected, or if 1.5 seconds have not yet passed since the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 was detected, in step S303, the values of the win/lose random number counter C1, the type determination counter C2, and the variation selection counter C3 are stored in the special variation area.

In the next step S304, a win/loss determination process is performed. That is, a win/loss lottery is performed to determine whether or not a jackpot state will occur based on the value of the win/loss random number counter C1. In this embodiment, when a win/loss lottery is performed, a win is guaranteed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a win/loss lottery is performed, a type lottery is performed to determine the type of jackpot based on the value of the type determination counter C2. In this embodiment, when a jackpot occurs in normal mode, "15RS" is selected, and when a jackpot occurs in time-saving mode, "15RN" is selected. In addition, in this embodiment, in the win/loss determination process, a variation pattern (variation time) of the special display devices 43a and 43b is selected based on the value of the variation selection counter C3.

In the next step S305, the first ball-entering detection flag is set to OFF. Furthermore, in step S306, the first ball-entering monitoring timer is reset (e.g., the value is set to "0"), and in step S307, the third center ejection flag and the third side ejection flag are turned OFF, and then the process ends.

Also, if the result of step S302 is negative, that is, if the first ball-entering detection switch 224a has been detected but more than one second has already passed since the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 was detected, or more than 1.5 seconds have already passed since the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 was detected, or if the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 and the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455 have not been detected (the first ball-entering monitoring timer has not been set), a time error flag is set to ON in step S308, indicating that the first ball-entering detection switch 224a may have been subjected to an illegal detection. After that, error processing is performed in step S309, and then this process is terminated.

If the result of step S301 is negative, then in step S310 it is determined whether or not at least one of the third center ejection flag and the third side ejection flag is set to on. If the result of step S310 is negative, then this process ends. On the other hand, if the result of step S310 is positive, then in step S311 the first ball entry monitoring timer is decremented by "1".

In the next step S312, it is determined whether the value of the first ball entry monitoring timer is "0". If the result of step S312 is negative, the process ends. On the other hand, if the result of step S312 is positive, the process ends after setting the third center discharge flag and the third side discharge flag to off in step S313.

Next, the blade confirmation process for monitoring the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a will be described with reference to FIG. 19. First, in step S401, it is determined whether or not the blade member open flag, which indicates that the blade member 415 is in the open position, is set to on. If a negative determination is made in step S401, it is determined in step S402 based on the detection information of the open position detection sensor 465 whether or not the blade member 415 is in the open position.

If the result of step S402 is positive, then in step S403, the blade member open flag is set to ON. In the following step S404, it is determined whether the value of the second ball entry monitoring timer is greater than "0". If the result of step S404 is positive, i.e., if three seconds have not yet elapsed since the game ball was detected by the second ball entry detection switch 446, then in step S405, the second ball entry detection flag is set to OFF. Furthermore, in step S406, the second ball entry monitoring timer is reset (for example, the value is set to "0").

Next, in this embodiment, in step S407, the switching solenoid 464 of the interlocking state change device 461 is de-energized. As a result, even if a game ball enters the second type non-electric role operating port 427, the game ball will not reach the lever member 443, and the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a will not be in the open position. Then, this process ends.

Also, if a negative judgment is made in step S404, i.e., the blade member 415 has been set to the open position but more than three seconds have already passed since the second ball entry detection switch 446 was detected, or the second ball entry detection switch 446 has not been detected at all (the second ball entry monitoring timer has not been set), then in step S408, a linkage error flag is set to ON, indicating that the blade member 415 may have been improperly set to the open position. After that, error processing is performed in step S409, and then this process is terminated.

If the result of step S402 is negative, then in step S410, it is determined whether the second ball-entry detection flag is set to on. If the result of step S410 is negative, then the process ends. On the other hand, if the result of step S410 is positive, then in step S411, the value of the second ball-entry monitoring timer is decremented by "1."

In the next step S412, it is determined whether the value of the second ball entry monitoring timer is "0". If the result of step S412 is positive, that is, if a ball has entered the second type non-electric device operation port 427 based on the detection information of the second ball entry detection switch 446 (the second ball entry detection flag is on), but more than three seconds have passed without the blade member 415 being in the open position, in step S413, a ball passage error flag is set to on, indicating that there is a possibility of a ball jam in the second type non-electric device operation port 427 to the interlocking passage 442, or that the second ball entry detection switch 446 has detected an improper ball. Then, in step S414, error processing is performed, and this process is terminated.

If the result of step S412 is negative, then in step S415, it is determined whether the value of the second ball entry monitoring timer is a value corresponding to the timing when 0.1 seconds have elapsed since the detection of the second ball entry detection switch 446 (for example, "1449" indicating that the remaining time is 2.9 seconds). If the result of step S415 is negative, then this process ends. On the other hand, if the result of step S415 is positive, then in step S416, the switching solenoid 464 of the interlocking state change device 461 is energized. As a result, the game ball that enters the second type non-electric role operation port 427 and passes through the interlocking passage 442 reaches the lever member 443 and displaces the lever member 443, so that the blade member 415 in the closed position can be displaced to the open position via the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441. After step S416, this process ends.

As described above, when error processing is performed, the switching solenoid 464 is de-energized. In this embodiment, when error processing is released, the switching solenoid 464 remains de-energized. Also, as described above, the switching solenoid 464 is returned to a de-energized state when the blade member 415 is brought to the open position within a specified time, so in this embodiment, the switching solenoid 464 is configured to be in an energized state only between 0.1 seconds and a maximum of 3 seconds after the second ball entry detection switch 446 is detected.

If the answer in step S401 is YES, then in step S417, it is determined whether or not the blade member 415 is in the open position based on the detection information of the open position detection sensor 465. If the answer in step S417 is YES, then this process ends. On the other hand, if the answer in step S417 is NO, then in step S418, the blade member open flag is turned off and then this process ends.

In addition, although not shown in a flow chart, in this embodiment, in the initial setting process performed when the pachinko machine 10 is powered on, it is determined whether or not the blade member 415 of the first start-up winning device 33a is in the open position based on the detection information of the open position detection sensor 465. If the blade member 415 is in the closed position, the initial setting process is continued as is, whereas if the blade member 415 is in the open position, a startup error flag indicating that the blade member 415 was in the open position when the power was turned on is set to on, and error processing is performed.

As described above in detail, in the first embodiment, the first start winning device 33a, which becomes available when a game ball that has entered the first specific area 403 of the central unit 401 passes through the first distribution device 407, the second distribution device 408, and the third distribution device 409, is provided with a blade member 415 that is set to an open position in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 and is set to a closed position in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a itself (the first start winning device 33a). When the blade member 415 is in the closed position, the game ball enters the first start winning device 33a only when the game ball enters the constant guide hole portion 421, which is one of the three holes provided in the third distribution device 409. On the other hand, when the vane member 415 is in the open position, the game ball will enter the first start winning device 33a not only when it enters the constant guide hole 421 of the three holes provided in the third distribution device 409, but also when it enters the remaining two conditional guide hole sections 425.

Therefore, by opening the vane member 415 of the first start winning device 33a, the probability of the game ball entering the first start winning device 33a can be increased. Therefore, by having the game ball enter the first specific area 403 the next time, there is a great chance of the game ball entering the first start winning device 33a. In other words, there is a great chance of achieving a jackpot state, in other words, a state in which the probability of the jackpot state occurring is increased (a so-called state of probability fluctuation), which can greatly increase the player's motivation to play. As a result, more variation can be added to the game, and interest can be improved, etc.

In addition, in this embodiment, the vane member 415 of the first start winning device 33a is configured to open in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427, so that the player can enjoy the behavior of the game ball in the first specific area 403 for a longer period of time by praying for the game ball to enter the first start winning device 33a, and even if there is no longer any possibility that the game ball will enter the first start winning device 33a, the player can continue to pray for the game ball to enter the second type non-electric device operating port 427. This can therefore increase the time period during which the game ball's behavior can be enjoyed, and fatigue can be suppressed.

Furthermore, by providing the first to fourth sorting devices 407 to 410 in the first specific area 403, it is possible to limit the movement path of the game balls in the first specific area 403 to some extent (making the game balls' behavior easier for players to understand), while also concentrating the points where the game balls' behavior can be seen, while maintaining a random element. This makes it possible to diversify the game balls' behavior in the first specific area 403 while adding contrast, and further increasing interest in the game balls' behavior.

In addition, in the third distribution device 409 as a guide change distribution means, when the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a is in the open position, the game ball that has reached the third distribution device 409 can be guided (entered) into the first start winning device 33a not only when it is guided by the constant guide hole portion 421 but also when it is guided by the conditional guide hole portion 425. Therefore, the value of having the blade member 415 in the open position can be increased, and the above-mentioned effect of increasing the willingness to play by having the blade member 415 in the open position is further achieved. Note that the third distribution device 409 of this embodiment is provided with only the constant guide hole portion 421 and the conditional guide hole portion 425. Therefore, the value of having the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a in the open position can be further increased, and the effect of increasing the willingness to play by having the blade member 415 in the open position is more prominent.

Furthermore, when a game ball enters the auxiliary hole 423 of the first distribution device 407 and is guided to the second type non-electric device operation port 427 side, the game ball is guided to the fourth distribution device 410. The fourth distribution device 410 is equipped with a fourth guide hole 428 that guides (allows the game ball to enter) the second type non-electric device operation port 427, and a fourth discharge hole 429 that discharges the game ball outside the game area without reaching the second type non-electric device operation port 427. Therefore, if the game ball enters the auxiliary hole 423 in the first distribution device 407, a simple gameplay in which the game ball always enters the second type non-electric device operation port is avoided. Therefore, it is possible to further diversify the behavior of the game ball in the first specific area 403.

In addition, detection switches are provided to detect game balls entering and being discharged from the first to fourth distribution devices 407-410, making it possible to grasp the number of game balls entering and being discharged from the first to fourth distribution devices 407-410. This allows for reliable management of game balls in the first specific area 403, and can prevent fraudulent acts such as illegally entering game balls into the first specific area 403 or causing the first ball entry detection switch 224a to make a false detection by using wire, radio waves, etc. Also, although not mentioned in the above embodiment, it is possible to change the state of the illumination of the distribution devices 407-410 in which the game ball is present, perform effects and instructions corresponding to the opening of the blade member 415 based on the detection of the second ball entry detection switch 446 (if the blade member 415 is already in the open position, such effects and instructions are not performed), and perform effects and instructions corresponding to the start of the jackpot state based on the detection of the first ball entry detection switch 224a (first start ball entry detection switch).

In addition, in a normal game state where the aim is for the game ball to enter the first specific area 403 of the central unit 401, the game ball is launched into the left area of the game area, whereas in the jackpot state (and in the time-saving mode), the game ball is launched into the right area of the game area where the variable winning device 32 (and the through gate 34 and the second start winning device 33b) are provided. Therefore, for example, in the jackpot state, it is possible to prevent the game ball from entering the first specific area 403 of the central unit 401, and therefore the first start winning device 33a, in a wasteful manner.

Furthermore, a partition wall 426 is provided to separate the third distribution center discharge passage 417, to which the game balls that have entered the constant guide hole 421 of the third distribution device 409 are guided, from the third distribution side discharge passage 418, to which the game balls that have entered the conditional guide hole 425 of the third distribution device 409 are guided. Therefore, even if the first start winning device 33a (wing member 415) does not have a complex and relatively large configuration, it is possible to prevent a game ball from entering the first start winning device 33a from the third distribution side discharge passage 418 when the wing member 415 is in the closed position, while reliably allowing a game ball that has passed through the third distribution side discharge passage 418 to enter the first start winning device 33a when the wing member 415 is in the open position.

In addition, in this embodiment, a linkage state change device 461 is provided that switches the destination of the linkage passage 442 to which the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric role operation port 427 is guided. By setting the linkage state change device 461 to the linkage restriction state (setting the switching part 463 of the linkage state change device 461 to the restriction position protruding into the linkage passage 442), even if the game ball is allowed to enter the second type non-electric role operation port 427, the blade member 415 in the closed position will not be set to the open position. Therefore, for example, by setting the linkage state change device 461 to the linkage restriction state when there is a possibility of fraud or when no game is being played, it is possible to suppress fraudulent acts such as fraudulently setting the blade member 415 to the open position. As a result, the crime prevention of the first start winning device 33a equipped with the blade member 415 can be improved.

In this embodiment, the interlocking state change device 461 can change its state to an interlocking permitted state when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is on, and is in an interlocking restricted state when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is off. In other words, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is off, it is difficult to electrically detect fraud using various sensors, etc., and it is difficult to notice fraud. However, by setting the interlocking state change device 461 to an interlocking restricted state, it is possible to prevent, for example, an act of putting a game ball into the second type non-electric device operating port 427 and leaving the blade member 415 in the open position when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is off outside the business hours of the game hall.

The blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a is mechanically linked to the game ball moving through the linkage passage 442 via the push-up member 441 and the lever member 443, and is displaced to the open position. Therefore, even if the power is on and various sensors are monitoring for fraud, if a game ball enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427, the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441 will link with the game ball and move the blade member 415 from the closed position to the open position.

In this regard, if the interlocking state change device 461 is in the interlocking restriction state, it is possible to prevent the interlocking of the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 with the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441. Furthermore, in this embodiment, even when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is on, the entire period is not in the interlocking permitted state, but the period in which the interlocking permitted state is from 0.1 seconds to 3 seconds after the detection of the second ball entry detection switch 446. Therefore, even when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is on, by shortening the period in which the interlocking state change device 461 is in the interlocking permitted state as much as possible, the effect of preventing fraudulent acts that illegally put the blade member 415 in the closed position into the guiding state (inserting something other than a game ball into the second type non-electric device operating port 427, or allowing a game ball to flow into the interlocking passage 442 from the middle of the passage in a configuration in which a game ball can flow into the interlocking passage from the middle of the passage) is further enhanced.

In addition, in this embodiment, when vibration is detected when a game ball is present in the first specific area 403, when magnetism is detected, when the blade member 415 is in the open position when the power is turned on, when the blade member 415 that was in the closed position when the front frame 14 or the inner frame 12 was opened was in the open position when the front frame 14 or the inner frame 12 was closed, when there should be no game ball in the first specific area 403 (the value of the remaining ball counter is "0" or less), the first ball entry detection switch 224a or the second ball entry detection switch 224b is activated. When the detection switch 446 is detected, when the first ball-entering detection switch 224a is detected 1 second after the detection of the third distribution center discharge detection switch, or 1.5 seconds after the detection of the third distribution side discharge detection switch, when the blade member 415 is set to the open position 3 seconds after the detection of the second ball-entering detection switch 446, the game is interrupted, a corresponding notification is made, and error processing is performed to set the interlocking state change device 461 to the interlocking restricted state. Therefore, the effect of preventing fraudulent acts of illegally changing the blade member 415 from the closed position to the open position is further enhanced.

The above vibration detection can prevent attempts to manipulate the behavior of game balls in the first specific area 403 by intentionally vibrating the pachinko machine 10, while eliminating the impact caused when a person in the game hall where the pachinko machine 10 is installed performs maintenance on the inside and back of the pachinko machine 10 with the power turned on and then returns it to its original state (such as closing the front frame 14 or inner frame 12), or the impact caused when a player unintentionally bumps into the pachinko machine 10 when sitting down in a chair in front of the pachinko machine 10 or standing up. The above magnetic detection can prevent attempts to manipulate the behavior of game balls in the first specific area 403 by using a magnet. By detecting when the pachinko machine 10 is powered on, it is possible to prevent the blade members 415 from being improperly set to the open position when the pachinko machine 10 is powered off, and game play starting in that state even after the power is turned on, as well as to prevent the blade members 415 from being forgotten to be set to the closed position at the end of business on the previous day at the gaming hall, and starting business in that state the next day.

By detecting before and after the opening of the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12, it is possible to grasp that the front frame 14 and the inner frame 12 are in the open state and the blade member 415 is in the open position illegally, and it is possible to prevent the game from being resumed as it is. By checking for an abnormality regarding the number of game balls in the first specific area 403, it is possible to grasp the presence of game balls that have been illegally entered into the first start winning device 33a or the second type non-electric role operating port 427, and it is possible to prevent the game from being continued as it is. By checking whether the detection of the first ball entry detection switch 224a was performed within a specified time after the game ball was discharged from the third distribution device 409, it is possible to grasp that the game ball has illegally entered the first start winning device 33a without passing through the first specific area 403 (third distribution device 409), and it is possible to prevent the game from being continued as it is. By checking whether the blade member 415 has been opened within a specified time from the detection of the second ball entry detection switch 446, it is possible to know that the blade member 415 may have been opened in a manner different from the normal manner in which the game ball enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427 and the blade member 415, which is in the closed position, is opened, and it is possible to prevent the game from continuing in this state.

Also, if the second ball entry detection switch 446 detects a game ball when it cannot be confirmed that the game ball has passed through the first distribution device 407 and the fourth distribution device 410 (when either the remaining ball counter or the fourth distribution ball entry counter has a value of "0" or less), an error process is performed. In this way, by checking the route of the game ball detected by the second ball entry detection switch 446, it is possible to know whether the game ball that entered the first specific area 403 entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 normally. Therefore, the effect of improving the crime prevention of the first start winning device 33a equipped with the blade member 415 is more reliably achieved.

Furthermore, in the interlocking restriction state, the interlocking state change device 461 is configured to protrude the switching unit 463 into the interlocking passage 442, prevent the game ball from reaching the lever member 443, and guide the game ball out of the game area. Therefore, for example, in a case where the switching unit 463 in the restriction position is in contact with the lever member 443 to prevent the lever member 443 from being displaced, it is possible to prevent the switching unit 463 or the lever member 443 from being damaged, while preventing the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 from being interlocked with the lever member 443 (and thus the blade member 415).

In addition, in this embodiment, an open position detection sensor 465 is provided that can detect that the blade member 415 is in the open position. This makes it possible to detect that the blade member 415 is in the open position even in a configuration in which the blade member 415 is mechanically linked to the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 via the push-up member 441 and the lever member 443. Therefore, it is possible to monitor the state of the blade member 415, and it is possible to detect that the blade member 415 has been illegally set to the open position, and to clearly inform the player that the blade member 415 has been set to the open position. As a result, it is possible to improve crime prevention and performance. Also, basically, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is on, it is possible to know whether the blade member 415 is in the open position by directly detecting the blade member 415, which is more accurate than knowing the state (posture) of the blade member 415 by, for example, saying that the blade member 415 was moved by control and therefore should be in the open position, and even if the power is off, it is possible to reliably know the state of the blade member 415 when the power is on. Therefore, it is possible to deal with fraudulent acts such as putting the blade member 415 in the open position when the power is off, or forcibly putting the blade member 415 in the open position even though there is no electrical processing to put the blade member 415 in the open position.

Furthermore, the open position detection sensor 465 is configured to detect the detection piece portion (not shown) connected to the first shaft portion 435 of the right-side blade member 415 when the detection piece portion is set to the open corresponding position (positioned when the blade member 415 is set to the open position). Therefore, compared to the case where the state of the blade member 415 is grasped (estimated) based on the detection of the first ball entry detection switch 224a and the second ball entry detection switch 446 that detect the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a or the second type non-electric role operation port 427, the state of the blade member 415 can be grasped more reliably and accurately by directly checking the blade member 415. In addition, by using the open position detection sensor 465 in combination with each detection switch of the central unit 401 as described above, more strict fraud countermeasures can be taken.

The blade members 415 are provided in a pair, and since the pair of blade members 415 are displaced in sync with each other, the open position detection sensor 465 can determine that the pair of blade members 415 are in the open position by checking the operation of the right blade member 415.

In addition, the third distribution device 409 of this embodiment is equipped with a constant guide hole section 421 that guides the game ball to the first start winning device 33a regardless of whether the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a is in the open position or the closed position, and a conditional guide hole section 425 that guides the game ball to the outside of the game area without allowing it to enter the first start winning device 33a when the blade member 415 is in the closed position, and guides it to the first start winning device 33a when the blade member 415 is in the open position. Therefore, the guide destination of the game ball of the conditional guide hole section 425 of the third distribution device 409 changes depending on whether the blade member 415 is in the open position or the closed position. In other words, it is possible to impart novel playability in which the path of the game ball desired by the player in the first specific area 403 (third distribution device 409) changes depending on the state of the blade member 415. This makes it possible to diversify the gameplay and increase variety in the gameplay (reduce boredom), which ultimately increases interest, etc.

Second Embodiment
The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 20 and the like, focusing on the characteristic parts. In the specific area 802 of the central unit 801 of this embodiment, a first distribution device 803 to which the game balls entering the first specific area 802 are guided, a second distribution device 804 to which the game balls passing through the first distribution device 803 are guided, a third distribution device 805 to which the game balls passing through the second distribution device 804 are guided, a fourth distribution device 806 to which the game balls passing through the third distribution device 805 are guided, a fifth distribution device 807 to which the game balls passing through the first distribution device 803 are guided, a first start winning device 808, and a second type non-electric role operating port 810 are provided.

The first start winning device 808 of this embodiment is equipped with a blade member 809 only on the left side, and no blade member 809 is provided on the right side. The blade member 809 is opened in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 810, and closed in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the first start winning device 808. When a game ball enters the first start winning device 808, a winning/losing lottery is held, and a jackpot state occurs, as in the first embodiment.

The first distribution device 803 has four holes, which are composed of one constant guide hole 811 that guides the game balls to the second distribution device 804, one auxiliary hole 812 that guides the game balls to the fifth distribution device 807, and two first discharge holes 813 that discharge the game balls outside the game area.

The second distribution device 804 is provided with three holes, which are composed of one constant guide hole 811 that guides game balls to the third distribution device 805, one bypass hole 814 that guides game balls to the fourth distribution device 806, and one second discharge hole 815 that discharges game balls outside the game area. Although not shown in the figure, the passage for game balls connecting the bypass hole 814 of the second distribution device 804 and the fourth distribution device 806 corresponds to the bypass passage.

The third distribution device 805 has three holes, which are composed of one constant guide hole 811 that guides the game ball to the fourth distribution device 806, one conditional guide hole 816 that discharges the game ball outside the game area when the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is in the closed position and allows the game ball to enter the first start winning device 808 when the blade member 809 is in the open position, and one third discharge hole 817 that discharges the game ball outside the game area.

The fourth distribution device 806 is provided with three holes, which consist of one constant guide hole 811 that allows the game ball to enter the first start winning device 808 whether the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is in the open position or in the closed position, and two fourth discharge holes 818 that discharge the game ball outside the game area.

In addition, a winning hole instruction light emitting unit 819 is provided that is illuminated by light emitting means (three-color LED) built into the third distribution device 805 and the fourth distribution device 806, surrounding the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805 and the constant guide hole portion 811 of the fourth distribution device 806, respectively. In other words, if a game ball enters the constant guide hole portion 811 of the fourth distribution device 806, the ball will always enter the first start winning device 808, generating a jackpot state. In this embodiment, the winning hole instruction light emitting unit 819 of the fourth distribution device 806 is always illuminated in white.

In contrast, when the blade member 809 is in the open position, if the game ball enters the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805, the game ball is guided by the blade member 809 in the open position and enters the first start winning device 808. On the other hand, when the blade member 809 is in the closed position, even if the game ball enters the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805, the game ball is discharged outside the game area without entering the first start winning device 808. In this embodiment, when the blade member 809 is in the open position, the winning hole teaching light emitting portion 819 of the third distribution device 805 emits red light, and when the blade member 809 is in the closed position, the winning hole teaching light emitting portion 819 of the third distribution device 805 is in a non-illuminating state.

Now, in this embodiment, a specified number of times distribution device 821 is provided as a specified number of times distribution means in the passage connecting the first distribution device 803 and the fifth distribution device 807. As shown in FIG. 21, the specified number of times distribution device 821 is provided with an entrance passage section 822 to which game balls that have passed through the first distribution device 803 are guided, a feed member 824 that is installed in a distribution area 823 to which game balls that have passed through the entrance passage section 822 are guided and rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 21, a safe hole 825 that is provided in connection with the lower left of the distribution area 823 and guides the entered game balls to the fifth distribution device 807, and an out hole 826 that is provided in connection with the rear of the lower left of the distribution area 823 and discharges the entered game balls to the outside of the game area.

The feed member 824 includes a shaft portion 827 extending in the front-rear direction, and four feed plate portions 828 extending from the shaft portion 827 in the centrifugal direction and disposed at equal positions. Three of the four feed plate portions 828 have their tip portions curved in the clockwise direction. The remaining one of the four feed plate portions 828 extends linearly in the centrifugal direction of the shaft portion 827 when viewed from the front, and a blocking plate portion 831 is provided in the region between the feed plate portion 828 and the feed plate portion 828 adjacent to the feed plate portion 828 on the clockwise side (hereinafter, this region is referred to as the "safe feed region 829", and the region between the other feed plate portions 828 is referred to as the "out feed region 830") so as to connect the rear edges of the feed plate portions 828.

Furthermore, there are provided a stopper 833 that prevents the feed member 824 from displacing in the counterclockwise direction, a release switch 834 that is provided in the inlet passage portion 822 and releases the function of the stopper 833, a lock switch 835 that returns the stopper 833 to a functioning state, and a positioning portion 836 that restricts the clockwise displacement (reverse movement) of the feed member 824.

The stopper 833 is provided at a position slightly to the left below the shaft portion 827 of the feed member 824 so that it can move forward and backward relative to the sorting area 823, and is configured to be able to abut against the counterclockwise side surface of the feed plate portion 828. When the counterclockwise side surface of a given feed plate portion 828 abuts or is in close proximity to the stopper 833, the position of the exit of the entrance passage portion 822 coincides with the safe send area 829 and one of the three out send areas 830, and game balls discharged from the exit of the entrance passage portion 822 flow into the safe send area 829 or one of the three out send areas 830.

When a game ball enters the entrance passage 822, the game ball operates a release switch 834 provided near the exit of the entrance passage 822, and the stopper 833 retreats to the outside of the distribution area 823. This allows the feed member 824 to rotate counterclockwise.

When a game ball is received in the safe sending area 829 or the out sending area 830 of the sending member 824, the weight of the game ball causes the sending member 824 to rotate and displace in the counterclockwise direction. In the middle of the rotational displacement of the sending member 824, the lock switch 835 is operated by a predetermined sending plate part 828, and the stopper 833 is made to protrude into the distribution area 823. As a result, when the predetermined sending plate part 828 abuts against the stopper 833, further rotational displacement of the sending member 824 in the counterclockwise direction is restricted. The stopper 833 may be configured to be mechanically linked to the release switch 834 and the lock switch 835, or the release switch 834 and the lock switch 835 may be configured to be configured to be a sensor, and the stopper 833 may be configured to appear and disappear by electrical control based on the detection of the sensor.

The positioning portion 836 is provided so as to be able to move forward and backward with respect to the sorting area 823, has a generally triangular plate shape whose forward protrusion length gradually increases in the counterclockwise direction, and is maintained in a protruding state into the sorting area 823 by a spring. Then, slightly before a given feed plate portion 828 abuts against the stopper 833, another feed plate portion 828 passes in front of the positioning portion 836 in such a manner as to push the positioning portion 836 outward (rearward) of the sorting area 823 against the spring of the positioning portion 836. When the other feed plate portion 828 passes in front of the positioning portion 836, the given feed plate portion 828 abuts against the stopper 833, and the positioning portion 836 returns to a state in which it protrudes into the sorting area 823. As a result, even if the feed member 824 attempts to rotate in the clockwise direction, the clockwise surface of the feed plate portion 828 comes into contact with the positioning protrusion 836, restricting further displacement in the clockwise direction.

In addition, when a game ball that has passed through the entrance passage 822 is received in the safe feed area 829 of the feed member 824, the weight of the game ball causes the feed member 824 to rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise and stop (due to the action of the stopper 833, etc.), and the safe feed area 829 and the safe hole 825 coincide (communicate). As a result, the game ball that was received in the safe feed area 829 enters the safe hole 825. The game ball received in the safe feed area 829 is prevented from entering the out hole 826 by the blocking plate portion 831 provided in the safe feed area 829.

On the other hand, when a game ball that has passed through the entrance passage 822 is received in the out-feed area 830 of the feed member 824, the weight of the game ball causes the feed member 824 to rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise and stop (due to the action of the stopper 833, etc.), and the out-feed area 830 and the out hole 826 come together (communicate). As a result, the game ball that was received in the out-feed area 830 enters the out hole 826 while being restricted from moving toward the safe hole 825 by the curved shape of the tip of the feed plate 828.

In this embodiment, as described above, one safe sending area 829 and three out sending areas 830 are provided in the sending member 824, and each time a game ball enters the specified number of times distribution device 821, the sending member 824 rotates 90 degrees to sequentially change the safe sending area 829 and out sending area 830 that match the safe hole 825 or out hole 826. In other words, the specified number of times distribution device 821 is configured to alternately guide a game ball to the fifth distribution device 807 only once and discharge the game ball outside the game area only three times, and is configured to guide one of every four game balls that enter the specified number of times distribution device 821 to the fifth distribution device 807. In this embodiment, the state in which the safe feed area 829 of the feed member 824 is in communication with the inlet passage portion 822 corresponds to a passing state, and the state in which the out-feed area 830 of the feed member 824 is in communication with the inlet passage portion 822 corresponds to a non-passing state.

22, a display plate 837 is provided on the front side of the feed member 824 as a count linkage means. The display plate 837 is made of a transparent plate-like body with numbers written on the front side. In this embodiment, the character "0" is written on the display plate 837 that blocks a part of the front of the safe feed area 829, the character "1" is written on the display plate 837 that blocks a part of the front of the out-feed area 830 located next to the safe feed area 829 on the counterclockwise side, the character "3" is written on the display plate 837 that blocks a part of the front of the out-feed area 830 located next to the safe feed area 829 on the clockwise side, and the character "2" is written on the display plate 837 that blocks a part of the front of the remaining out-feed area 830. In this embodiment, a lamp (not shown) capable of emitting light is provided in the portion of the sorting area 823 adjacent to the entrance passage 822, so that the numbers in the safe feed area 829 and the out feed area 830 that are connected to the entrance passage 822 are easier to see than the numbers in the other areas.

The fifth distribution device 807 has two holes, which are a fifth guide hole 838 that allows the game ball to enter the second type non-electric device operating port 810, and a fifth return hole 839 that guides the game ball to the third distribution device 805.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by setting the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 in the open position, the probability of the game ball entering the first start winning device 808 can be increased, and it becomes a great chance to make the game ball enter the first start winning device 808. In other words, it becomes a great chance to get a jackpot state, in other words, a state in which the probability of the jackpot state occurring is increased (a so-called state like a probability fluctuation state), and it can greatly increase the desire to play. As a result, it is possible to add more variety to the game, and it is possible to improve the interest, etc.

Now, in order to set the blade member 809 to the open position, it is necessary to have the game ball enter the second type non-electric device operating port 810, and in order to have the game ball enter the second type non-electric device operating port 810, it is necessary to have the specified number of times allocating device 821 in the passing state (a state in which the safe sending area 829 of the sending member 824 is connected to the entrance passage part 822) guide the game ball to the fifth allocating device 807 side. Here, the specified number of times allocating device 821 alternates between a state in which the game ball is guided to the fifth allocating device 807 only once and a state in which the game ball is discharged outside the play area only three times, and if the specified number of times allocating device 821 is caused to discharge the game ball outside the play area only three times, the specified number of times allocating device 821 can be made to guide the game ball to the fifth allocating device 807 the next time.

Therefore, by setting the specified number of times distribution device 821 in a passing state, the probability of the game ball entering the second type non-electric device operating port 810 can be increased, providing a greater chance of the game ball entering the second type non-electric device operating port 810. In other words, this provides a greater chance of setting the wing member 809 of the first start winning device 808 to the open position, greatly increasing the player's motivation to play. As a result, more variety can be added to the game, improving interest, etc.

In addition, the specified number of times distribution device 821 is configured to discharge the entered game ball out of the play area three times, and then guide the next entered game ball to the fifth distribution device 807. Therefore, not only is it switched between a passing state in which the game ball may be allowed to enter the second type non-electric device operating port 810 and a non-passing state in which the game ball cannot be allowed to enter the second type non-electric device operating port 810, but also, regarding the non-passing state, depending on the number of times remaining until the passing state is changed, for example, between a state where there are still multiple times remaining and a state where there is only one time remaining (preparation state), the expectation of the game ball entering the second type non-electric device operating port 810 can be differentiated. As a result, more variations can be added to the game, and interest can be improved.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game ball is guided to the fifth distribution device 807 by the specified number of times distribution device 821, and the fifth distribution device 807 guides the game ball to the second type non-electric device operating port 810 or the third distribution device 805. Therefore, without increasing the probability of the game ball entering the second type non-electric device operating port 810, it is possible to prevent the game ball from being discharged outside the game area in the specified number of times distribution device 821, and to avoid a situation where the game ball is completely wasted even if it enters the specified number of times distribution device 821 when the blade member 809 is already in the open position (there is a possibility that the game ball will be guided to the third distribution device 805). Therefore, the effect of improving the interest is further achieved by providing the specified number of times distribution device 821.

In addition, in the specified number of times distribution device 821, a display panel 837 is provided on the front side of the feed member 824, which changes the visual appearance according to the remaining number of times (second specified number) that game balls are to be inserted into the specified number of times distribution device 821 before the safe feed area 829 of the feed member 824 is in a state of communication with the entrance passage portion 822. This makes it easier to know how many more game balls need to be inserted into the specified number of times distribution device 821 before the game balls are guided to the fifth distribution device 807. This eliminates the problem of not being able to fully understand when the game ball will be guided to the fifth distribution device 807 even when the specified number of times distribution device 821 is directly visible, and allows players to play with the goal of the game ball being guided to the fifth distribution device 807 as a familiar goal, or to change the progress of the game depending on the number of times remaining until the game ball is guided to the fifth distribution device 807, and can reliably use the remaining number of times as a guide to winning the game.

The second type non-electric device operating port 810 is configured to allow balls to enter only when the specified number of times distributor 821 guides the balls to the fifth distributor 807. This increases the value of the specified number of times distributor 821, and increases interest in the state of the specified number of times distributor 821 and the behavior of the game balls on the specified number of times distributor. This increases the player's motivation to play when the safe sending area 829 of the sending member 824 is in communication with the entrance passage 822, or when only one more game ball needs to enter the specified number of times distributor 821 before the state is reached.

Furthermore, in the specific area 802, there exists a route for a game ball that can enter the first start winning device 808 without passing through the specified number of times distribution device 821. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation where, for example, even if the blade member 809 is already in the open position, a game ball that has entered the specific area 802 is always guided to the second type non-electric device operating port 810 side every specified number of times.

In addition, a winning hole instruction light-emitting unit 819 is provided around the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805, and when the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is in the closed position and a game ball enters the conditional guide hole portion 816, but is discharged outside the game area, the corresponding hole selection instruction light-emitting unit 819 is in a non-illuminating state, whereas when the blade member 809 is in the open position and a game ball enters the conditional guide hole portion 816, the game ball is picked up by the blade member 809 and enters the first start winning device 808, the corresponding hole selection instruction light-emitting unit 819 is in a red light-emitting state. Therefore, the conditional guide hole portion 816, whose guide destination changes depending on the situation, can be made to stand out and instruct, suggest, emphasize, etc. that the conditional guide hole portion 816, whose guide destination changes depending on the situation, is in a state of guiding the game ball to the first start winning device 808. This makes it possible to prevent situations where the player misses the moment when the game ball is guided to the conditional guide hole 816, which is in a state where it can be guided to the first start winning device 808 by the wing member 809 in the open position, which should be a happy moment for the player.

In addition, in this embodiment, a conditional guide hole section 816 is provided in the third distribution device 805, which is provided upstream of the specific area 802 from the fourth distribution device 806. In other words, when the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is in the closed position, a game ball that reaches the third distribution device 805 reaches the fourth distribution device 806 through the constant guide hole section 811 of the third distribution device 805, and then enters the first start winning device 808 only if the ball enters the constant guide hole section 811 of the fourth distribution device 806. In contrast, when the vane members 809 are in the open position, if a game ball is made to enter the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805, the game ball can be made to enter the first start winning device 808, skipping the fourth distribution device 806, and a chance arises for the game ball to enter the first start winning device 808 directly in the third distribution device 805, which is not the distribution device on the most downstream side of the specific area 802. This makes it possible to change the expectation of the game ball entering the first start winning device 808 relative to the third distribution device 805, and the balance of the expectation of the ball entering among the multiple distribution devices, and the game playability can be changed more significantly by changing the state of the vane members 809. In this embodiment, when the vane member 809 is in the open position, the expected rate of winning in the third distribution device 805 is higher than the expected rate of winning in the fourth distribution device 806 (two of the three holes in the fourth distribution device 806 are misses, whereas one of the three holes in the third distribution device 805 is a win for the first start winning device 808, one is a guide to the fourth distribution device 806, and one is a miss). Therefore, the effects of diversifying the playability and increasing interest are more pronounced.

Furthermore, the second distribution device 804 is equipped with a bypass hole 814 that guides the entered game ball to the fourth distribution device 806 without passing through the third distribution device 805. This makes the effects of diversifying the gameplay and increasing interest more pronounced. In particular, as described above, in this embodiment, the conditional guide hole portion 816 is provided in the third distribution device 805, which the game ball that enters the bypass hole portion 814 does not reach. Therefore, when the blade member 809 is in the closed position, the game ball enters the bypass hole portion 814 of the second distribution device 804 and is carried to the fourth distribution device 806, and the player is happy. However, when the blade member 809 is in the open position, when the game ball enters the bypass hole portion 814 of the second distribution device 804, the game ball does not reach the third distribution device 805, and the player is not happy. In this way, the game playability can be greatly changed by changing the state of the blade member 809. Therefore, the game playability can be made deeper, and interest can be improved.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be implemented as follows, for example:

(a; first start winning device)
(a-1; the partner with which the wing member is linked) In the above embodiment, the wing member 415 of the first start-up winning device 33a is configured to be changed from the closed position to the open position in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427, and to be changed from the open position to the closed position in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the first start-up winning device 33a, but it may also be configured to be changed from the closed position to the open position in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the first start-up winning device 33a, and to be changed from the open position to the closed position in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the first start-up winning device 33a.

When the vane member 415 is configured to open in response to a game ball that enters the first start winning device 33a in the closed state, there is a chance to generate the next jackpot state (obtain consecutive jackpot states) not long after the end of the jackpot state. For example, if a relatively large amount of game value can be obtained with a jackpot state, a relatively large increase in game value can be expected. This can greatly increase the player's sense of expectation when a jackpot state occurs, and the player can enjoy a special sense of elation when playing with the vane member 415 in the open position.

The configuration of the "guide means" that can guide the game ball moving to the side of the first ball entry section 414 of the first start winning device 33a to the first ball entry section 414 is not limited to the "wing member 415". For example, the guide means may be a shutter that can appear and disappear from the game board 30 into the game area, or may be a guide section that can guide the game ball moving to the side of the first ball entry section 414 to the first ball entry section 414 side, and a switching section that is provided above the guide section and can change between a state that allows the game ball to fall into the guide section and a state that prevents the game ball from falling into the guide section. In addition, "the side of the first ball entry section 414" refers to the area adjacent to the first ball entry section 414, and depending on the configuration of the guide means, it may be not only the left or right side, but also the front.

The second type non-electric device operating port 427 is provided in the first specific area 403, but may be provided outside the first specific area 403 (an area where the game ball that has flowed in has no chance of reaching the first start winning device 33a). In the second embodiment, the game ball is configured to reach the fifth distribution device 807 by entering the auxiliary hole portion 812 four times in the first distribution device 803 in the specific area 802, and reach the second type non-electric device operating port 810 with a probability of 1/2 (the fifth distribution device 807 may be omitted), but the second type non-electric device operating port 810 and the specified number distribution device 821 may be provided outside the specific area 802. However, it is preferable to configure the game ball to enter the specified number distribution device 821 as a secondary ball by shooting the game ball aiming at the first start winning device 808.

In addition, the game ball that enters the second type non-electric device operation port 427 is configured to link with the wing member 415 of the first start-up winning device 33a, but for example, a distribution means may be provided that can guide the game ball that enters the second type non-electric device operation port 427 to the lever member 443 side or a side other than the lever member 443 (it may be guided to an outlet from the game area, or another first start-up winning device may be provided in the first specific area 402 to guide the game ball alternately or randomly).
(a-2; the blade member is electrically operated) Also, in the above embodiment, the first start-up winning device 33a is configured to be opened and closed mechanically in conjunction with the game ball that enters the first start-up winning device 33a or the second type non-electric device operating port 427, but it may also be configured to be opened and closed electrically (a solenoid or motor or the like is provided as a driving means for opening and closing the blade member 415, and the driving means is driven and controlled by a control means such as the main control device 261).

For example, instead of the second type non-electric device operating port 427 of the above embodiment, a second ball entry device as a guidance trigger means through which a game ball moving through the first specific area 403 can enter (a configuration that allows it to pass through is also possible), and a second ball entry device detection switch as a guidance trigger detection means capable of detecting a game ball that has entered the second ball entry device are provided, and based on the detection of the second ball entry device detection switch, the main control device 261 as a guidance determination means, guidance waiting time determination means, and guidance time determination means performs a ball entry support lottery to determine whether or not to set the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a to the open position, and in the ball entry support lottery In the event of a win, the waiting time before the blade members 415 are set to the open position (a normal variable display means for displaying the result of the scoring support lottery may be provided, and when the scoring support lottery is held, the normal variable display means displays a variable display for a predetermined period of time, and when the variable display stops and the result of the scoring support lottery is displayed, the blade members 415 are set to the open position, in which case the time of the variable display corresponds to the waiting time), as well as a guidance time for which the blade members 415 are set to the open position may be determined, and after the waiting time has elapsed, the blade members 415 are set to the open position for the guidance time.

Furthermore, a guidance presentation means consisting of a display means such as a liquid crystal display device or a movable device may be provided, and configured to be able to derive a presentation as to whether or not the blade member 415 will be in the open position during the waiting time. In this case, the presentation can be further enhanced by relating it to the behavior of the game ball in the first specific area 403. The second ball entry device as the guidance trigger means may be provided outside the first specific area 403.

Also, for example, a semi-transparent cover (which may be a prism plate or a light guide plate) may be provided in front of the blade member 415 of the first start winning device 33a, or a lamp that shines light toward the cover may be provided, thereby reducing the visibility of the blade member 415 and increasing interest in the guidance presentation means. In addition, a presentation operation means that can be operated by the player (the presentation button 125 of the above embodiment may be used, or instead of or in addition to the presentation button 125, a presentation operation means using a button, lever, sensor, etc. that can detect a specific operation by the player may be provided as appropriate) may be provided, and a presentation that uses the presentation operation means as a presentation by the guidance presentation means (for example, the presentation content changes depending on whether or not the presentation operation means is operated, or the operation of the presentation operation means is used as a trigger to transition to the next presentation) may be derived.

The through gate 34 is a guide trigger means through which the game ball moving in the game area can (enter or) pass, and the through gate switch 225 is a guide trigger detection means for detecting the game ball that has passed through the through gate 34. The guide determination means (such as the lottery function of the main control device 261) may perform a ball entry support lottery as a guide lottery to determine whether or not to open the blade member 415 based on the detection of the through gate switch 225, and if the ball entry support lottery is won, it may determine that the blade member 415 will be in the open position. The through gate 34 may be provided outside the first specific area 403 and the second specific area 411 in the game area, or may be provided in the first specific area 403 or the second specific area 411.

Furthermore, with regard to the winning hole instruction light emitting unit 819 provided around the conditional guide hole portion 816 of the third distribution device 805 of the second embodiment, when the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is electrically operated and has an upper limit on the opening time (for example, a maximum of 6 seconds), a guidance determination means (main control device 261) is provided that determines to open the blade member 809 in consideration of the time it takes for the game ball guided to the conditional guide hole portion 816 to reach the first start winning device 808, and when the guidance determination means determines to open the blade member 809, the first specified time (for example, 30 seconds later; even if a new game ball is entered into the specific area 802, the game ball will not enter the first start winning device 808 until the first specified time has elapsed). The blade members 809 may be configured to be in the open position for a second specified time (e.g., six seconds) after the game ball guided to the conditional guide hole portion 816 reaches the blade members 809 in the open position (if there are no troubles), and the visible state of the winning hole instruction light emitting portion 819 may change depending on whether the game ball guided to the conditional guide hole portion 816 reaches the blade members 809 in the open position (a state in which there is both a possibility that the blade members 809 are in the open position or in the closed position when the game ball guided to the conditional guide hole portion 816 reaches the blade members 809), or a state in which the game ball guided to the conditional guide hole portion 816 reaches the blade members 809 in the closed position. For example, when the time it takes for the game ball to move from the conditional guide section to the guide means is approximately 2.5 seconds, if the time remaining until the guide means closes is 3 seconds or more, the guide mode change means, which is illuminated by a three-color LED, may be configured to emit blue light, if the time remaining is between 3 seconds and 2.5 seconds, the guide mode change means may be configured to emit yellow light, and if the time remaining is less than 2.5 seconds, the guide mode change means may be configured to be turned off. Furthermore, based on a single winning of the ball entry support lottery, the blade member 809 may be configured to be opened multiple times.

In addition, if the blade members 809 of the first start winning device 808 are electrically powered and there is an interval between when the ball entry support lottery is held to determine whether the blade members 809 will be in the open state and when the blade members 809 are opened based on the result of the ball entry support lottery (when the normal pattern display device 41 displays a variable display), during this time (waiting time), a guide presentation means (a display device such as a liquid crystal display device, a movable role, etc.) may be provided that can derive a presentation of whether the blade members 809 will be in the open position. In this case, the presentation can be made even more exciting in relation to the behavior of the game ball in the specific area 802.

(a-3: Behavior when a game ball enters the first start winning device) In the above embodiment, a winning/losing lottery is held when a game ball enters the first start winning device 33a, and the winning/losing lottery has a 100% probability of winning. However, for example, the winning/losing lottery may be configured to have a winning or losing chance (for example, a 1/3 chance of winning, a 65535/65536 chance of winning, etc.), or there may be no winning/losing lottery, and when a game ball enters the first start winning device 33a, the right to generate a jackpot state is obtained (or the state is changed to a state that gives the right to generate a jackpot state; a movable guide means that guides the game ball to a special winning device that gives the right to generate (continue) a jackpot state by allowing the game ball to enter the special winning device is movable after a certain time).

The structure of the game area other than the central unit 401 is not particularly limited, and the through gate 34 and the second start winning device 33b may be omitted, and the time-saving mode may be omitted.

(a-4; Covering means) In the above first embodiment, a front cover may be provided as a covering means for covering the front of the blade member 415 (whether the blade member 415 is in the open position or the closed position) as the guide means of the first start winning device 33a. In this case, it is possible to prevent the act of illegally changing the blade member 415 from the closed position to the open position by directly applying force (by hooking a finger, wire, etc.) without having to insert a game ball into the second type non-electric device operating port 427. Therefore, in cooperation with the interlocking state changing device 461 that can prevent the passage of game balls through the interlocking passage, it is possible to more reliably prevent the act of illegally changing the blade member 415 from the closed position to the open position.

The front cover may be constructed by extending the cover portion 438 of the above embodiment. The front cover may also be configured to reduce the visibility of the play area behind the glass unit 137, to the extent that the blade member 415 is visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10. When this configuration is adopted, the value of the guidance state instruction means of the above second embodiment is further enhanced, and when a presentation is made as to whether or not the blade member 415 will be opened, interest in such a presentation can be further increased.

(a-5; Structure of the blade members 1) In the first embodiment described above, the blade members 415 in the closed position cannot be displaced to the open position simply by applying force toward the open position (left and right direction) (the blade members 415 are displaced to the open position by displacing them upwards), but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. However, in order to enhance the crime prevention effect of preventing the act of illegally displacing the blade members 415 in the closed position to the open position, it is desirable to adopt a configuration in which the blade members 415 cannot be easily displaced to the open position. For example, the pair of blade members 415 in the closed position may be configured to be displaced to the open position by displacing them to the open position simultaneously or almost simultaneously (the lower sides of the pair of blade members 415 are provided with fitting portions that are approximately fitted to each other when in the open position, and fitting is impossible unless they are displaced to the open position almost simultaneously).

(a-6; Structure of the blade member 2) In the above embodiment, the opening interlocking means (push-up member 441 and lever member 443) that interlocks the blade member 415 of the first start-up winning device 33a with the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 is configured to be displaceable between a reference position and an operating position that displaces the blade member 415 from the closed position to the open position, and is configured to automatically return to the reference position after displacing from the reference position to the operating position in conjunction with the game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 to set the blade member 415 to the open position. However, the posture of the push-up member 441 and the lever member 443 may be maintained in the operating position until the game ball enters the first start-up winning device 33a and the blade member 415 in the open position is returned to the closed position.

The configuration of the opening interlocking means is not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the lower ends of the pair of blade members 415 may be configured to be interlocked (connected) with each other. More specifically, for example, among the hinge members in which a pair of plate-shaped bodies are rotatably connected to each other, one plate-shaped body may be connected to the lower side of one blade member 415 so as to be rotatably displaceable, and the other plate-shaped body may be connected to the lower side of the other blade member 415 so as to be rotatably displaceable. In this case, the pair of blade members 415 can be displaced synchronously without fail, and a situation in which only one of them is in the open position can be prevented. In addition, when a shutter that can appear and disappear from the game board 30 in the game area in front is adopted instead of the blade member 415 as a guide means capable of guiding the game ball to the first ball entry section 414 of the first start winning device 33a, the multiple shutters may be connected to each other so as not to be displaceable relative to each other.

In addition, an operation detection means (sensor) may be provided to detect the push-up member 441 or the lever member 443 in the activated position, and if the open position detection sensor 465 detects that the blade member 415 has been set to the open position and there is no detection information from the operation detection means, control corresponding to an error state may be performed. In this case, it is possible to detect that the blade member 415 has been set to the open position by applying force directly to the blade member 415 without linking the push-up member 441 and the lever member 443, thereby improving crime prevention.

In addition, although not specifically mentioned in the above embodiment, a stopper that restricts the displacement of the lever member 443 beyond a specified amount when the game ball moving through the interlocking passage 442 hits the lever member 443, or a support part for supporting the lever member 443 at a reference position may be provided. Also, by interposing a cushioning material (rubber sheet, etc.) at the part of the lever member 443 that hits the game ball, it is possible to configure the lever member 443 so that the mechanical energy of the game ball (energy based on the potential energy due to the difference in height) is transmitted to the lever member 443 more efficiently while suppressing damage to the lever member 443 (hitting it harder to ensure the displacement of the blade member 415, or it is also possible to adopt a larger blade member 415). Note that the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441 are assumed to be made of a resin material like the blade member 415, but metal wires or the like may be embedded in them to increase their strength.

(a-7; Open position detection sensor) In the above embodiment, a detection piece (not shown) is provided connected to the first shaft 435 of the right-side blade member 415, and when the blade member 415 is in the open position, the detection piece is detected by the open position detection sensor 465, so that it is possible to know that the blade member 415 is in the open position, but this is not particularly limited to such a configuration. For example, an associated member that is separate from the blade member 415 but interlocks with the guide means may be provided, and the associated member that is in the open corresponding position when the blade member 415 is in the open position may be detected by the open position detection sensor 465. Also, for example, the blade member 415 itself that is in the open position may be detected by the open position detection sensor 465. Furthermore, for example, the open position detection sensor 465 may be configured to be able to detect the blade member 415 in the closed position, and it may be configured to know that the blade member 415 is in the open position by confirming that the open position detection sensor 465 does not detect the blade member 415.

It is preferable to configure the device so that it can detect that the blade member 415 is in a half-open position. That is, a closed position detection sensor may be provided as a non-guiding detection means for detecting the blade member 415 (the detection piece portion) in the closed position, in addition to the open position detection sensor 465 as the guiding detection means. That is, the blade member 415 is in a half-open state that is not detected by the open position detection sensor 465, and the pachinko machine 10 judges that the blade member 415 is closed (it is in a state where it is judged to be normal when it is normal to be closed), whereas it is possible to grasp the occurrence of a situation in which a game ball that has entered the conditional guide hole portion 425 of the third distribution device 409 may enter the first start winning device 33a in a manner that pushes the blade member 415 open once. Also, if it is determined that the blade member 415 is half-open, an error state may be generated, or it may be determined whether the blade member 415 is normal, open or closed, and the game balls parked at a predetermined position on the back side of the pachinko machine 10 may be allowed to flow into the interlocking passage 442 when the blade member 415 is opened, or when the blade member 415 is closed, in the above embodiment, a specific passage may be provided on the back side of the game board 30, and a mechanism may be provided to interlock the blade member 415 with the game ball moving along the specific passage and close it, and then the game balls may be allowed to flow into the specific passage.

In addition, for example, a configuration may be provided in which multiple blade passage detection sensors are provided between a position corresponding to the blade member 415 in the open position and a position corresponding to the blade member 415 in the closed position to detect the forward passage of the blade member 415, and the position of the blade member 415 is identified based on the detection and disappearance of the multiple blade passage detection sensors and the order of detection by the multiple blade passage detection sensors.

In addition, while the vane member 415 is in the open state, a signal corresponding to the vane member 415 being in the open state may be continuously output to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 (hall computer), or a corresponding signal may be output to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 when the vane member 415 is in the open state and when the vane member 415 is in the closed state. Also, in an error state where the vane member 415 is in the open position when it should not be in the open position (a state where a ball has entered the first start winning device 33a but no ball has entered the second type non-electric role operating port 427), or in a situation where fraudulent activity is suspected, it is desirable to perform error processing to suspend the game, and to allow the game to be resumed after the game hall personnel have confirmed that there are no abnormalities related to the game.

(b; Other structures of the central unit)
(b-1; Correspondence between the visual appearance of each area of the first specific region and the presence or absence of game balls in that area) Although not specifically mentioned in the above first embodiment, the visual appearance of the first allocation device 407, the second allocation device 408, the third allocation device 409, and the fourth allocation device 410 may be configured to be changeable based on the values of the remaining ball counter, the first allocation ball counter, the second allocation ball counter, the third allocation ball counter, and the fourth allocation ball counter. For example, when the value of the remaining ball counter is "0", the visual recognition state of the first allocating device 407, the second allocating device 408, the third allocating device 409, and the fourth allocating device 410 is set to "Pattern 1 (e.g., relatively dark brightness)", and the first allocating device 407, the second allocating device 408, the third allocating device 409, and the fourth allocating device 410 corresponding to the first allocating entering ball counter, the second allocating entering ball counter, the third allocating entering ball counter, and the fourth allocating entering ball counter with a value of "1" are set to "Pattern 2 (e.g., relatively dark brightness)". The visible mode of the first allocation device 407, the second allocation device 408, the third allocation device 409, and the fourth allocation device 410 corresponding to the first allocation scoring ball counter, the second allocation scoring ball counter, the third allocation scoring ball counter, and the fourth allocation scoring ball counter with a value of "2 or more" may be "Pattern 3 (e.g., the light color changes)."

In this case, it is possible to improve the performance. The change in the visual appearance is not particularly limited, and examples include a configuration in which the light emission mode of the light-emitting means provided in correspondence with each of the allocation devices 407-410 changes, a change in the visual appearance of a movable role object provided in correspondence with each of the allocation devices 407-410 changes, and in the case where a transparent display device is provided in front of the central unit 401, a change in the visual appearance of the display unit of the display device. The configuration in which the visual appearance of the allocation devices 407-410 changes based on information on the presence of game balls in the first specific area 403 (detection information from various detection switches) corresponds to the allocation visual appearance change means.

(b-2; Utilization of each detection switch of the central unit 401) The method of using the detection information of each detection switch of the central unit 401 is not particularly limited, and can be changed appropriately for each model. Although not specifically mentioned in the above embodiment, it is possible to configure it so that a corresponding sound effect or a performance due to a change in a dedicated visual state can be derived based on the detection of the detection switch. It is also possible to vary the derived performance depending on the combination of detection information. For example, when the first ball entrance detection switch 224a is detected, the performance instructing that a jackpot state will occur may be different depending on whether there is detection information of the third distribution center discharge detection switch 454 or the third distribution side discharge detection switch 455. Alternatively, a discharge record flag indicating the occurrence of each discharge detection switch may be set, and when the first ball entrance detection switch 224a is detected with all discharge record flags set to on, the performance during the jackpot state may be different from other cases.

(b-3: Entrance of the central unit) In the above embodiment, the central unit 401 has one entrance (ball entry opening 404) to the first specific area 403, but it may be provided in multiple locations. For example, in the first embodiment, the central unit 401 may be configured to have a first entrance that guides the player to a route that increases the arrival rate of the game ball to the third distribution device 409, and a second entrance that guides the player to a route that increases the entry rate of the game ball to the second type non-electric role operation port 427, so that the player can hit the ball differently. In this case, the player can choose which entrance to aim for, which can expand the playability. In addition, it may be configured so that a game ball that enters the first entrance may enter the second type non-electric role operation port 427, or a game ball that enters the second entrance may enter the first start winning device 33a.

Furthermore, an opening/closing member that is opened when a predetermined lottery is won may be provided at the entrance of the first specific area 403. For example, a first start winning device without a blade member (a small winning state in which the opening/closing member is opened in a winning/losing lottery based on a ball entering the first start winning device) is provided at a position where a game ball moving in the left side area of the game area can enter, and a special winning device with a blade member that is opened in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the second type non-electric device operating port 427 is provided at the position of the first start winning device 33a in the above embodiment, and a 16-round jackpot state is granted based on the ball entering the special winning device (continuing from the second round onwards), and a transition to a special mode is made after the jackpot state ends, and a 16-round jackpot state is granted when a winning/losing lottery in a special mode in which a winning chance is 1/32 based on a ball entering the second start winning device in the right side area is won, and a transition to a normal mode is made after the jackpot state ends.

(b-4) In the above embodiment, the internal structure of the central unit 401, for example, the number, arrangement, and connection of the distribution devices, is not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate for each model. However, the interior of the central unit 401 is also configured so that the behavior of the game ball until it is discharged from the game area can be visually confirmed by the player. For example, in the above embodiment, each distribution device is configured not to displace, but (at least when the game ball is present in the first specific area 403) a dish-shaped member provided with multiple holes (constant guide hole portion 421, discharge hole portion, etc.) may be configured to operate at a constant speed and in a constant pattern, or in a specified distribution device, a movable portion that can change the traveling direction of the game ball may be configured to operate at a constant rhythm.

(c; interlocking mechanism with the blade member, and mechanism for switching the interlocking state) The configuration for interlocking the game ball moving through the interlocking passage 442 with the blade member 415, and the configuration for interlocking the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a with the blade member 415 are not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate. The configuration of the interlocking state change device 461 is also not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the interlocking state change device 461 may be configured to restrict the displacement of the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441 in the reference position in the interlocking restricted state. In this case, by setting the interlocking state change device 461 to the interlocking restricted state, the lever member 443 or the push-up member 441 is held in the reference position, making it impossible to use the lever member 443 and the push-up member 441 to open the blade member 415. Therefore, for example, when there is a possibility of fraud or when no game is being played, the interlocking state-changing device 461 can be set to the interlocking restricted state to prevent fraudulent acts such as illegally setting the blade members 415 to the open position. Note that an interlocking cover member that covers the interlocking state-changing device 461 may be provided to prevent acts such as illegally manipulating the interlocking configuration to set the blade members 415 to the open position or forcibly changing the interlocking state-changing device 461 from the interlocking restricted state to the interlocking permitted state.

Furthermore, a illegal ball storage means may be provided to guide and store game balls that are prevented from reaching the lever member 443 by the interlocking state change device 461 in the interlocking restricted state. In this case, a trace of the illegal ball entry can be left, which can be used for crime prevention measures and responses after the discovery of illegality. Furthermore, the illegal ball storage means may be configured so that the stored game balls can be visible from the outside, and the stored game balls cannot be removed unless a predetermined trace is left (a crimping mechanism may be provided, or a detection switch that can detect the stored game balls is provided, and the detection information of the detection switch is stored and stored in the pachinko machine 10 or output to the outside of the pachinko machine 10, etc.). In addition, the illegal ball storage means may store multiple game balls one by one in such a way that the order in which they were stored can be known (there may be multiple storage sections, and some of the game balls stored in the storage sections become part of the passage for the following game balls).

(d; Setting of error state) In the above embodiment, the trigger for performing the error processing for interrupting the game, issuing a corresponding notification, and setting the interlocking state changing device 461 to the interlocking restricted state is not particularly limited and can be changed for each model. For example, (in the case of a design in which about 1 in 50 balls enters the first specific area 403), if the first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 detects a first specified number (e.g., 10 balls) or more of game balls in one minute, and the first distribution ball entry detection switch 448 detects a second specified number (e.g., 5 balls) or more of game balls in five seconds, the error processing may be executed. In this case, it is possible to know that there is a possibility that an illegal operation is being performed to enter the first specific area 403, and confirmation work, etc. can be performed.

The content of the error handling is also not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate for each model. Furthermore, the content of the error handling can be configured to differ depending on the type of error.

(e; Guidance state teaching means) In the above embodiment, an open/closed display member may be provided as guidance state teaching means that is visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 and can be switched between an open display (guidance response mode) indicating that the blade members 415 are in the open position and a closed display (non-guidance response mode) indicating that the blade members 415 are in the closed position. The specific configuration of the open/closed display member is not particularly limited, and for example, when the open position detection sensor 465 detects that the blade members 415 are in the open position, a corresponding solenoid is energized to display the open state. In this way, by providing an open/closed display member, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the blade members 415 do not realize that they are in the open position.

It is also desirable to provide the opening/closing display member as close as possible to the ball entry opening 404 of the central unit 401, and for example, the opening/closing display member may be provided at a position corresponding to the upstream side of the first specific area 403 from the first distribution device 407. In other words, in this embodiment, the first start winning device 33a (blade member 415), the second type non-electric role operating port 427, and the ball entry opening 404 are provided relatively far apart from each other. For this reason, if a player is distracted by the game balls attempting to enter the ball entry opening 404 or the behavior of the game balls in the first distribution device 407, the player may not notice that a game ball has entered the second type non-electric device operating opening 427 and the blade member 415 has been set to the open position (particularly when multiple distribution devices are installed, the player may be so focused on the behavior of the game balls in the distribution devices that he or she may miss the game ball entering the second type non-electric device operating opening 427).

In this regard, by providing the open/close indicator member as close as possible to the upstream side of the first specific area 403, the change in state of the open/close indicator member can be fully seen by the player even if the player is viewing the first distribution device 407, etc., upstream of the first specific area 403. This makes it easier for the player to notice that the blade members 415 have been set to the open position. Therefore, the player can fully enjoy a relatively exhilarating game while being aware that the blade members 415 are in the open position, and it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player stops playing without realizing that the blade members 415 are in the open position.

The open display of the open/close display member is preferably in a manner that makes it easy to associate that the blade member 415 is in the open position (such as switching between "open" and "closed"). In addition, a means for instructing that the open display member and the blade member 415 are related may be provided. For example, a plurality of light-emitting means may be provided between the open/close display member and the blade member 415, and the plurality of light-emitting means may be configured to flash sequentially in conjunction with the open display of the open/close display member. In addition, a role that imitates the shape of the blade member 415 may be used as the open/close display member. Furthermore, the open/close display member may be provided near the ball entrance opening 404. In this case, a game can be played in which the game ball is launched toward the ball entrance opening 404 while keeping in mind that the blade member 415 is in the open position.

(f; Addition of interlocking)
(f-1: Guidance state teaching means) The game machine is provided with a guidance state teaching means (for example, a movable device in which the characters visible to the player are switched between "open" and "closed") that can be switched between a guidance corresponding mode indicating that the blade member 415 is in the open position and a non-guidance corresponding mode indicating that the blade member 415 is in the closed position, an open additional interlocking means that comes into contact with the game ball after the lever member 443 (and thus the blade member 415) is interlocked and sets the guidance state teaching means to the guidance corresponding mode, and a closed additional interlocking means that interlocks with the game ball that has entered the first start winning device 33a in which the blade member 415 is in the open position and sets the guidance state teaching means to the non-guidance corresponding mode. (a signboard unit having the word "OPEN" on the front and the word "CLOSED" on the back is provided at the upper end of a shaft that can rotate around an axis extending in the vertical direction, and a switching push valve that can appear and disappear is provided at the lower end of the shaft between an open passage through which a game ball that has passed through the interlocking passage is guided and a closed passage through which a game ball that has entered the first start-up winning device 33a is guided, and a game ball passing through the open passage presses the switching push valve, causing the shaft and the signboard unit to rotate so that the word "OPEN" becomes visible, and a game ball passing through the closed passage presses the switching push valve, causing the shaft and the signboard unit to rotate so that the word "CLOSED" becomes visible).

In this case, the state of the guidance state teaching means can be mechanically switched by using the game balls discharged outside the pachinko machine 10 in association with the blade member 415 being in the open position and the closed position. Therefore, the state of the blade member 415 can be reliably taught without electrical control.

In addition, a decorative movable member that is linked to the game ball that enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427 may be provided. However, it is preferable that the linkage mechanism for the decorative movable member is provided downstream of the lever member 443 so that there is no effect of the linkage between the game ball moving through the linkage passage 442 and the lever member 443.

(f-2; The second start winning device is a second type non-electric device) In the above first embodiment, the second start winning device 33b may be configured as a non-electric device that is not electrically operated, but is opened in conjunction with a game ball that enters the first start winning device 33a, and is closed in conjunction with a game ball that enters the second start winning device 33b. In this case, the variable display of the special display devices 43a and 43b can be reserved and stored for one time, and the big win state is started by the ball entering the first start winning device 33a, and the second start winning device 33b is opened. When a game ball enters the second start winning device 33b that is opened, the variable display of the special display device 43b is reserved and stored for one time, and the second start winning device 33b is closed. After the big win state ends, the variable display of the special display device 43b that was reserved and stored is performed (as in the above embodiment, the winning lottery has a 100% probability of winning), and the big win state starts after the fluctuation stops. In this case, it is possible to generate two big win states without a configuration that gives a time-saving mode after the big win state based on the ball entering the first start winning device 33a.

(f-3; Wing member also in the second type non-electric device operating port) In the above first embodiment, the second type non-electric device operating port 427 may also be provided with an opening/closing member similar to the first start-up winning device 33a, and the wing member of the second type non-electric device operating port 427 may be configured to be set to the open position in conjunction with a game ball that has entered a specified operating port (for example, the first start-up winning device 33a). In this case, it is possible to provide different states in which the game ball can easily enter the second type non-electric device operating port 427. For example, in conjunction with the game ball that entered the first start winning device 33a, the blade member of the second type non-electric device operating port 427 is opened, and when the blade member is opened, the game ball that entered the fourth discharge hole portion 429 (which may be one or both) of the fourth distribution device 410 also enters the second type non-electric device operating port 427 (which may be configured to always enter, or which may or may not enter). In this case, after a game ball enters the first start winning device 33a and a jackpot state occurs once, the second type non-electric device 427 is opened, making it easier for the first start winning device 33a to be opened, and thus increasing the expectation of the next jackpot.

(g; destination of the specified number of times distribution device) In the above second embodiment, the game ball is guided to the fifth distribution device 807 by the passing specified number of times distribution device 821, but the fifth distribution device 807 may be omitted and the game ball may be guided to the second type non-electric device operation port 810. In addition, in the fifth distribution device 807, there may be a distribution that discharges the game ball outside the game area, and there may be no distribution that guides the game ball to the third distribution device 805 (a passage where the game ball may enter the first start winning device 808). Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the game ball cannot reach the second type non-electric device operation port 810 unless it passes through the specified number of times distribution device 821, but it may be configured so that the game ball can enter the second type non-electric device operation port 810 without passing through the specified number of times distribution device 821 (with a relatively low probability). Also, in the above embodiment, the specified number of times distribution device 821 alternates between guiding the game ball to the fifth distribution device 807 once and discharging the game ball outside the play area three times, but the rate at which the game ball is guided is not particularly limited, and for example, it may alternate between guiding the game ball to the fifth distribution device 807 twice and discharging the game ball outside the play area six times.

For example, the specified number of times distribution device 821 may guide the game ball to three or more destinations. For example, when the number of times the game ball has been guided is the specified number of times (4 times, 0 times remaining), the game ball may be guided to the second type non-electric device operating port 810, and when there are three times remaining until the specified number of times, or when there is only one time remaining, the game ball may be discharged outside the game area, and when there are two times remaining, the game ball may be guided to a newly prepared general winning port.

(h; remaining number grasping means) In the above second embodiment, the device is provided with a phase grasping device (sensor, etc.) capable of grasping the current rotational phase of the feed member 824 of the specified number distribution device 821, a phase difference grasping function (memory area, calculation function, etc.) capable of grasping the difference between the current phase and the reference phase of the feed member 824 at which the safe feed area 829 of the feed member 824 communicates with the entrance passage section 822, and a display device capable of displaying specified information, and may be configured to display information on how many more times the game ball needs to enter the specified number distribution device 821 before the safe feed area 829 of the feed member 824 communicates with the entrance passage section 822 (a state in which the game ball is guided to the fifth distribution device 807 by the specified number distribution device 821). In this case, various controls can be performed according to the remaining number of times until the game ball is guided to the fifth distribution device 807, and game guidance such as an explanation of the status of the specified number distribution device 821 and presentations according to the remaining number of times can be performed. Therefore, it is possible to progress in the game more smoothly.

In addition, the configuration for instructing the number of times remaining until the specified number of times allocating device 821 guides the game ball to the fifth allocating device 807 is not particularly limited and can be changed as appropriate. For example, if a three-color LED is provided as the number of times linking means, and the first specified number of times that the specified number of times allocating device 821 guides the game ball to the fifth allocating device 807 and the second specified number of times that the specified number of times allocating device 821 discharges the game ball outside the game area are each set to two times, the LED emits blue light when the second specified number of times remaining is two, emits red light when the second specified number of times remaining is one, flashes yellow when the second specified number of times remaining is zero (the first specified number of times remaining is two), and flashes white when the first specified number of times remaining is one, it becomes easier for players to notice that the state (state, posture, direction, position, etc.) of the specified number of times allocating device 821 changes each time it guides a game ball, and the performance can be improved. Therefore, the effect of adding a rhythm to the game and increasing motivation to play is more reliably achieved. In addition, in the case where a game ball that has entered the specified number of times allocating device 821 is guided to the fifth allocating device 807 multiple times in succession, a first remaining number teaching means may be provided that teaches the remaining number of times that a game ball that has entered the specified number of times allocating device 821 will be guided to the fifth allocating device 807. In this case, it is easy to know how many more times the specified number of times allocating device 821 can guide a game ball to the fifth allocating device 807, and it is possible to prevent a situation in which the game ends without taking advantage of the opportunity.

(i; Change in appearance of the specified number of times distribution device) In the above second embodiment, a state interlocking means may be provided in the specified number of times distribution device 821 or in its vicinity, which changes the visual appearance of the specified number of times distribution device 821 when the blade member 809 of the first start winning device 808 is in the open position and when it is in the closed position. In other words, since there is no change in the blade member 809 even if the game ball is inserted into the second type non-electric role operation port 810 after the blade member 809 is in the open position, for example, the visual appearance of the specified number of times distribution device 821 can be made as inconspicuous as possible (for example, by dimming the lighting), etc., so that attention is not drawn to the movement of the game ball to the second type non-electric role operation port 810 side (when the game ball is guided to the third distribution device 805 by the fifth distribution device 807, the corresponding performance may be made relatively flashy). In other words, it is possible to make it easier for the player to recognize that the blade member 809 does not move to the open position even if a ball enters the second type non-electric device operating port 810, and to make it difficult for the player to witness an undesirable situation such as multiple game balls entering the second type non-electric device operating port 810. On the other hand, when the blade member 809 is in the closed position, the specified number of times allocation device 821 is made relatively conspicuous, increasing the attention paid to the specified number of times allocation device 821, and ensuring that the player can enjoy the playability of the specified number of times allocation device 821.

(j) Although not specifically mentioned in the second embodiment, the system may be provided with a distribution visual mode changing means (such as a light-emitting device, a movable device, a display device, etc.) that can change the visual mode of each distribution device 803-807, and a distribution ball entry detection means (such as the distribution ball entry detection switches 448-451 in the first embodiment) that can detect game balls entering each distribution device 803-807. In that case, the distribution devices 803-807 with game balls (and the distribution devices 803-807 that may be introduced next) can be made to stand out, and the appearance of the distribution devices 803-807 without game balls can be made more subdued, thereby assisting the player in viewing the behavior of the game balls in the specific area 802 and improving the presentation, etc.

(k; Game board) In the above embodiment, the game board 30 is made of transparent resin, but it may be made of an opaque material or partly made of transparent resin. However, when the game ball is moved to the rear side of the game board 30 and then returned to the front side of the game board 30, the game board is configured so that the entire path along which the ball is moved is visible.

(l) In the above embodiment, the pachinko machine 10 may be configured to exchange data (so-called mobile-linked play) between the pachinko machine 10 and a server operated by a gaming machine manufacturer or the like through a communication mobile terminal owned by the player. Furthermore, when the mobile-linked play is ended, a two-dimensional code including the current game information is displayed on the liquid crystal display device, and the player reads the two-dimensional code with a mobile communication terminal and accesses the server with the mobile communication terminal, so that the game information is transmitted to the server. In this configuration, the pachinko machine 10 may be equipped with a fluctuation counter that counts the number of fluctuations of the special display devices 43a and 43b, a jackpot counter that counts the number of occurrences of various jackpot states, etc., and the two-dimensional code displayed on the liquid crystal display device at the end of the mobile-linked play may be configured to include information indicating the values of the various counters. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code may also include information on the total number of game balls shot, the type of derived performance and the number of times, the number of times the player operated the performance button 125 during the button performance, etc. In this case, the gaming machine manufacturer can grasp the gaming situation. The counter value is erased by being converted into a two-dimensional code, but otherwise may be stored (even if the power is turned off).

(m) In the above embodiment, the probability of winning, the number of types of winning, the opening and closing pattern of the variable winning device 32 for each type of winning are not particularly limited, and can be set appropriately for each machine. In addition, a state of high probability and low ball entry state ("latent mode") may be provided. Furthermore, the winning state to which the latent mode is given may not be a winning state in which an increase in game balls is expected (so-called "jackpot with balls"), but a winning state in which the opening time of the variable winning device 32 is short, the number of winning rounds is small, and an increase in game balls is hardly expected (so-called "jackpot without balls"). For example, the variable winning device 32 may be opened for 0.4 seconds as one round, and the winning state may be configured to end after this is repeated twice. In addition, a small winning state (a winning state with a predetermined probability when a winning state does not occur) in which the variable winning device 32 opens and closes in the same pattern as the winning state to which the latent mode is given may be provided. In this case, since it becomes difficult to tell whether or not the potential mode has been applied, it is possible to implement effects that suggest whether or not the potential mode has been applied.

(n) In the above embodiment, the number of variable winning devices 32 is one, but two may be provided. Furthermore, the arrangement and number of the first start winning device 33a, the second start winning device 33b, the through gate 34, the variable winning device 32, etc. are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately arranged for each model.

(o) It may be implemented as a type of pachinko machine different from the above embodiment. For example, the present invention may be implemented as a pachinko machine having a specific area into which a game ball moving in the game area can enter, a variable ball entry means having a movable means (opening/closing member) that can be changed between an open state that allows a ball to enter the specific area and a closed state that prohibits a ball from entering the specific area, a specific ball entry means and a non-specific ball entry means into which a game ball that has entered the specific area can enter, a specific ball entry detection means (condition establishment detection means) that detects a game ball that has entered the specific ball entry means, a special start means that is provided outside the specific area into which a game ball moving in the game area can enter, a special start detection means that detects a game ball that has entered the special start means, and a main control means that controls the opening and closing of the variable ball entry means, and when a game ball enters the specific area, a control means that determines whether the game ball will enter the specific ball entry means or the non-specific ball entry means, In this case, the player is given a predetermined number of game values (game balls), and the main control means, based on the detection of the special start detection means, performs a lottery to determine whether or not to generate a small win state in which the variable ball entry means is opened once or multiple times for a first time, or a large win state in which the variable ball entry means is opened for a second time longer than the first time, or a round is defined as one round until a specified number of game balls enter the variable winning means that is opened, and this is repeated a specified number of times. If a small win is won in the lottery, a small win state is generated, and if a large win is won in the lottery, or if the specific ball entry detection means is detected in the small win state, a large win state is generated. When this configuration is adopted, the guide means may guide the game ball to the specific ball entry means.

In addition, in the above embodiment, game balls are paid out as game value to the upper tray 19 and lower tray 15 into which the player can insert and remove game balls, but for example, the game balls launched by the launching device 60 and guided to the playing area may be circulated and used inside the pachinko machine (alternatively, a device for cleaning the game balls may be interposed), and the player may not be able to remove the game balls (from the front side of the pachinko machine 10). In other words, while the configuration related to the tank 355 to which the game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall are replenished is not necessary, a mechanism (a storage section for game balls, a mechanism for sending game balls from the storage section to the launching device 60; it may also serve as a storage section, or the game balls may be sent basically only by the height difference, or the game balls may be sent by an electric sending device) that brings the game balls discharged from the game area to the launching device 60 (ball sending device 63) is provided, and a configuration is provided in which the game balls (corresponding number) are led out to a position where the game balls can be seen by the player, as in the upper tray 19 of the above embodiment, and the game balls on the upper tray 19 cannot be touched by the player (they are covered with a transparent plate-like body or the like).

[Additional Notes]
The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiments will be described below.

Means A. Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, for example, a pachinko machine is known. A pachinko machine is a machine in which a game is played using a gaming ball, and the machine is provided with a gaming area in which the gaming ball can move, and the gaming ball is launched by a launching means and guided to the gaming area.

Some pachinko machines are also equipped with a specific ball entry means having a specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter, and when a game ball that enters such a specific area enters a special ball entry means within the same area, a game state advantageous to the player is created (see, for example, JP-A-11-197312).

However, when it comes to gaming machines, there is always a demand for new configurations and other means to add new excitement.

The present invention was made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can increase the player's interest.

Means A-1. A game area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter;
A first ball entry means having a ball entry section into which a game ball moving in the specific area can enter, and a second ball entry means,
A configuration in which an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player is given based on the entry of a game ball into the first ball entry means,
The first ball entry means includes a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving beside the front ball entry portion of the first ball entry means is guided to the ball entry portion and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
A gaming machine characterized by comprising an opening interlocking means which mechanically interlocks with a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to change the guiding means, which is in the unguided state, to the guiding state.

According to means A-1, by setting the guiding means of the first ball entry means in a guiding state, it is possible to create a state in which the probability of the game ball entering the first ball entry means is increased. Therefore, by having the game ball enter the specific area the next time, there is a greater chance of the game ball entering the first ball entry means. In other words, there is a greater chance of achieving an advantageous state, in other words, a state in which the probability of the advantageous state occurring is increased (a state similar to a so-called probability-changing state), which can greatly increase the player's motivation to play. As a result, it is possible to add more variety to the game, and to increase interest, etc.

In addition, if the opening interlocking means is configured to be interlocked with a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means, there is a chance to generate the next advantageous state (to obtain consecutive advantageous states) not long after the end of the advantageous state. For example, if a relatively large amount of gaming value can be obtained with an advantageous state, a relatively large increase in gaming value can be expected. This can greatly increase the player's sense of anticipation when an advantageous state occurs, and the player can enjoy a special sense of elation when playing a game in which the guidance means is in the guidance state.

The "guide means" is not particularly limited in its configuration, and may be, for example, rotatable around a rotation axis extending forward and backward on both sides of the ball entry section (an openable/closable member that can be displaced between a guide position where a game ball moving along the side of the ball entry section can be guided to the ball entry section, and a non-guide position that prevents the game ball from entering the ball entry section from the side of the ball entry section), or it may be configured to be able to change its state between a state where it protrudes into the game area and a state where it retreats from the game area, or it may be configured to include a guide section that can guide a game ball moving along the side of the ball entry section to the ball entry section, and a switching section that is provided above the guide section and can change its state between a state where it allows the game ball to fall into the guide section and a state where it prevents the game ball from falling into the guide section.

In addition, "to the side of the front entry portion of the first entry means" refers to the area adjacent to the entry portion, and if the guiding means is displaced in a direction including left and right when it is changed from a non-guiding state to a guiding state, it will be to the left and right sides, and if it is displaced in a direction including the front, it will be to the front.

Means A-2. The gaming machine described in means A-1, characterized in that the opening interlocking means interlocks the gaming ball that has entered the second ball entry means with the guidance means that is in the unguided state, and puts the guidance means in the guidance state.

According to the method A-2, the player can enjoy the behavior of the game ball in the specific area for a longer period of time by praying for the game ball to enter the first ball entry means, and even if there is no possibility of the game ball entering the first ball entry means, the player can continue to pray for the game ball to enter the second ball entry means. This can therefore increase the time period during which the game ball's behavior can be enjoyed, and can help to prevent boredom, etc.

Means A-3. The first ball entry means is configured so that a game ball can be entered into the front ball entry section of the first ball entry means even when the guiding means is in the unguided state;
The specific region is
a first guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the first ball entry means;
a first hidden passage through which a passing game ball has no possibility of entering the first ball entry means;
a first distribution means for distributing game balls to the first guide passage and the first unguided passage at a specific ratio;
the specific area includes a conditional first guidance passage which is set as the first guidance passage when the guidance means is in the guidance state, and which is set as the first unguided passage when the guidance means is in the unguided state,
The gaming machine described in means A-1 or A-2 is characterized in that the first allocation means is equipped with a guidance change allocation means having a constant guidance section that guides the gaming ball to the first guide passage through which a passing gaming ball has the possibility of entering the first ball entry means, regardless of whether the guidance means is in the guidance state or the non-guiding state, and a conditional guidance section that guides the gaming ball to the conditional first guide passage.

According to Measure A-3, by providing the first distribution means, the movement path of the gaming ball in the specific area can be limited to a certain extent, and by providing the first distribution means, the points where the gaming ball's behavior can be displayed can be concentrated while ensuring a random element. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the behavior of the gaming ball in the specific area while adding variety, and to further increase interest in the behavior of the gaming ball.

In addition, when the guidance change distribution means is in the guidance state, the gaming ball that has reached the guidance change distribution means can be guided to the first ball entry means not only when it is guided by the constant guidance section, but also when it is guided by the conditional guidance section. This increases the value of having the guidance means in the guidance state, and further enhances the above-mentioned effect of increasing motivation to play by having the guidance means in the guidance state.

In addition, "the game ball that has reached the guidance change distribution means may be guided to the constant guidance section or the conditional guidance section." In this case, when the guidance means is in the guidance state, the guidance change distribution means will not guide the game ball to the first unguided passage, which is undesirable for the player, and the game ball can be reliably advanced toward entering the first ball entry means. Therefore, the value of the guidance means being in the guidance state can be further increased, and the effect of increasing the player's motivation to play by the guidance means being in the guidance state is more pronounced. On the other hand, the guidance change distribution means may be provided with a miss guidance section that guides the game ball to the first unguided passage (and the second unguided passage) regardless of whether the guidance means is in the guidance state or the unguided state. In this case, the game ball's behavior in the guidance change distribution means can be greatly enjoyed even when the guidance means is in the guidance state.

Means A-4. The gaming machine described in means A-3, characterized in that part of the first unguided passage includes a second guide passage through which a passing gaming ball may enter the second ball entry means, and a second unguided passage through which a passing gaming ball may not enter the second ball entry means.

According to means A-4, even if the gaming ball is guided to the first unguided passage, it may be guided to the second guided passage. Furthermore, a second unguided passage is also provided in the first unguided passage, and simple gameplay in which the gaming ball enters the second entry means if the gaming ball does not enter the first entry means is avoided. Therefore, it is possible to further diversify the behavior of the gaming ball in a specific area.

It may also be possible to provide "a first entrance to the specific area that is guided to the first guide passage, and a second entrance to the second guide passage of the first unguided passage." In this case, the player can choose which entrance to aim for, expanding the playability. In addition, the first guide passage also includes a second guide passage (the first guide passage before the branch to the second ball entry means) and a second unguided passage (the entire passage through which a passing game ball has no chance of entering the second ball entry means).

Means A-5. A second distribution means is provided for distributing game balls to the second guide passage and the second non-guide passage at a specific ratio,
The gaming machine described in means A-4 is characterized in that a second guide detection means for detecting gaming balls guided to the second guide passage and a second unguided detection means for detecting gaming balls guided to the second unguided passage are provided in correspondence with the second distribution means.

Means A-5 allows for quick instruction and presentation of whether or not the game ball has been guided to the second guide passage. Also, in a configuration that allows for understanding that the guide means has been put into a guiding state, it is possible to determine whether or not the state of the guide means has changed due to the ball having entered the second ball entry means normally.

Means A-6. A first guide detection means for detecting a game ball guided to the first guide passage and a first unguided detection means for detecting a game ball guided to the first unguided passage are provided in correspondence with the first distribution means;
The gaming machine described in means A-4 or A-5 is characterized in that it is equipped with an allocation visual mode change means that can change the visual mode of the first allocation means and the second allocation means based on detection by the first guidance detection means, the first uninformed detection means, the second guidance detection means, and the second uninformed detection means.

According to means A-6, for example, the distribution means where the game ball is present (and the subsequent distribution means) can be illuminated, the second ball entrance means and the distribution means immediately preceding it can be illuminated when the guiding means is in a non-guiding state, and the second ball entrance means and the second distribution means provided in the second guiding passage of the first non-guiding passage can be darkened when the guiding means is in a guiding state, thereby improving the presentation. In addition, by providing the first guiding detection means and the first non-guiding detection means, it is possible to teach or present whether the game ball has been guided to the first guiding passage.

Examples of the "distribution visual recognition mode changing means" include lighting, movable props (movable decorations, etc.), and a transparent display device placed in front of the play area.

Means A-7. A first ball entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means;
A second ball entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the second ball entry means;
A discharge detection means (the first unguided detection means and the second unguided detection means) for detecting game balls guided to the first unguided passage and the second unguided passage;
A gaming machine described in any of means A-4 to A-6, characterized in that it is equipped with a remaining ball grasping means for grasping the number of gaming balls present in the specific area based on detection information from the first ball entry detection means, the second ball entry detection means, and the discharge detection means.

Means A-7 makes it possible to detect ball jams in specific areas and to detect fraudulent behavior such as illegally placing game balls in specific areas.

The remaining ball grasping means may include a second corresponding remaining ball grasping means for grasping the number of game balls present in the first unguided passage and the second guided passage. In this case, it is possible to identify where in a specific area cheating may have occurred.

Means A-8: A closing interlocking means for mechanically interlocking with the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means to change the guiding means from the guiding state to the non-guiding state;
and an advantageous state ball entry means for allowing a game ball moving in the game area (outside the specific area) to enter the game area when the advantageous state is established,
A gaming machine described in any of means A-1 to A-7, characterized in that in the gaming area, at least a portion of the range in which gaming balls are fired with the aim of landing in the advantageous state ball landing means and the range in which gaming balls are fired with the aim of landing in the specific area do not overlap.

By means of means A-8, in an advantageous state where a ball can enter the advantageous state ball entry means, it is possible to prevent the waste of a game ball entering a specific area, and in turn the first ball entry means (particularly in a configuration in which the guiding means of the first ball entry means is set to a guiding state when a game ball enters the first ball entry means, the guiding state of the guiding means may be set to an advantageous state, in which case, if the game ball enters the first ball entry means, the guiding means will be set to a non-guiding state, which is a very large disadvantage).

Means A-9. A gaming machine according to any one of means A-1 to A-8, characterized in that it is provided with partition means for separating a specific passing position where a passing gaming ball enters the first ball entry means whether the guiding means is in the guiding state or the unguiding state, from a conditional specific passing position where a passing gaming ball enters the first ball entry means in the guiding state of the guiding means, but where a passing gaming ball cannot enter the first ball entry means in the unguiding state of the guiding means.

According to means A-9, even if the first ball entry means does not have a complex and relatively large structure, it is possible to prevent a game ball from entering the first ball entry means from a conditionally specific passing position when the guiding means is in an unguided state, while at the same time ensuring that a game ball that has passed through the conditionally specific passing position can enter the first ball entry means when the guiding means is in a guiding state.

Means B. Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, for example, a pachinko machine is known. A pachinko machine is a machine in which a game is played using a gaming ball, and the machine is provided with a gaming area in which the gaming ball can move, and the gaming ball is launched by a launching means and guided to the gaming area.

Some pachinko machines are also equipped with a specific ball entry means having a specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter, and when a game ball that enters such a specific area enters a special ball entry means within the same area, a game state advantageous to the player is created (see, for example, JP-A-11-197312).

However, when it comes to gaming machines, there is always a demand for new configurations and other means to add new excitement.

The present invention was made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can increase entertainment value.

Means B-0. A game area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter;
a first ball entry means capable of changing between an open state in which a game ball moving in the specific area can or easily enter the ball entry and a closed state in which a game ball cannot or has difficulty entering the ball entry;
A special area (a specified number of times allocation device) into which a game ball moving through the game area or the specific area can enter;
A gaming machine characterized in that the first ball entry means may be put into the open state by causing the gaming ball to reach the special area a specified number of times or more.

According to means B-0, it is possible to provide a gameplay that allows the player to get closer to receiving the bonus (and gradually get closer to receiving the bonus) by operating the game ball, such that the player can receive the bonus of opening the first ball entry means by making the game ball reach the special area multiple times. This allows the player to feel a greater sense of elation when the player gets closer to receiving the bonus, and to enjoy the game with a greater sense of empathy. Furthermore, since the bonus is not awarded if the number of times the game ball reaches the special area is less than the specified number of times, it is possible to increase the time periods during which the player can feel elated and the opportunities for performances to be performed, and to improve the gameplay. As a result, it is possible to increase interest.

Means B-1. A game area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A first ball entry means having a ball entry section into which a game ball moving in the game area can enter, and a second ball entry means,
A configuration in which an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player is given based on the entry of a game ball into the first ball entry means,
The first ball entry means includes a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving beside the front ball entry portion of the first ball entry means is guided to the ball entry portion and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
an opening interlocking means for mechanically interlocking with the game ball that has entered the second ball entry means to set the guiding means in the unguided state to the guiding state;
a second guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the second ball entry means;
a second hidden passage through which a passing game ball has no possibility of entering the second ball entry means;
The gaming machine is configured to be capable of changing between a passing state in which the gaming ball is guided to the second guide passage and a non-passing state in which the gaming ball is guided to the second unguided passage, and is characterized by comprising a specified number of times allocating means for alternately repeating guiding the gaming ball to the second guide passage a first specified number of times and guiding the gaming ball to the second unguided passage a second specified number of times.

According to means B-1, by setting the guiding means of the first ball entry means to the guiding state, it is possible to increase the probability of the game ball entering the first ball entry means, which creates a great chance of the game ball entering the first ball entry means. In other words, it creates a great chance of achieving an advantageous state, in other words, a state in which the probability of the advantageous state occurring is increased (a so-called state of probability fluctuation), which can greatly increase the player's motivation to play. As a result, it is possible to add more variety to the game, which can increase interest, etc.

Now, in order to put the guiding means into the guiding state, it is necessary to have the game ball enter the second ball entry means, and in order to have the game ball enter the second ball entry means, it is necessary to have the game ball be guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means in the passing state. Here, the specified number of times distribution means alternates between a state in which the game ball is guided to the second guide passage a first specified number of times, and a state in which the game ball is guided to the second unguided passage a second specified number of times, and if the specified number of times distribution means is caused to guide the game ball to the second unguided passage a second specified number of times, the next time, it can be caused to have the specified number of times distribution means guide the game ball to the second guide passage.

Therefore, by setting the specified number of times distribution means to a passing state, the probability of the game ball entering the second ball entry means can be increased, providing a greater chance of the game ball entering the second ball entry means. In other words, this creates a greater chance of setting the guiding means of the first ball entry means to a guiding state, greatly increasing the player's motivation to play. As a result, it is possible to add more variety to the game, and to increase interest, etc.

It may also be configured so that "the second ball entry means can be reached only when the game ball is guided to the first guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means." In this case, the effect of providing the specified number of times distribution means is more reliably achieved.

Means B-2. The gaming machine described in means B-1, characterized in that the second specified number of times is multiple times.

According to means B-2, not only is it possible to switch between a passing state in which the game ball can be inserted into the second ball insertion means and a blocked state in which the game ball cannot be inserted into the second ball insertion means, but also, in the blocked state, the degree of expectation of inserting the game ball into the second ball insertion means can be differentiated according to the number of times remaining of the second specified number, for example, between a state in which there are still multiple times remaining of the second specified number and a state in which there is only one time remaining of the second specified number (preparation state). As a result, it is possible to add more variety to the game, and to increase interest, etc.

The first specified number of times may be more than one. For example, the game ball guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means may reach a distribution means that distributes the game ball to the second guide passage and the second unguided passage. In this case, it is possible to add interest to the behavior of the game ball after being distributed to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means without increasing the rate of balls entering the second ball entry means and avoiding a configuration in which the game ball is always guided to the second unguided passage by the specified number of times distribution means.

Means B-3. The gaming machine described in means B-1 or B-2, characterized in that there is a route for a gaming ball to enter the first ball entry means without passing through the specified number of times distribution means.

By using means B-3, for example, even if the guiding means is already in the guiding state, it is possible to avoid a situation in which a gaming ball heading toward the first ball entry means is guided to the distribution means a specified number of times each time, and the gaming ball is guided to the second ball entry means side every specified number of times.

Means B-4. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-3, characterized in that it is provided with a remaining number grasping means capable of grasping the remaining number of the first specified number and the second specified number.

By means of means B-4, various controls can be performed according to the remaining number of the first specified number and the second specified number, and game guidance such as an explanation of the status of the specified number allocation means and presentation according to the remaining number can be performed. Therefore, a smoother game progress can be achieved.

Means B-5. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-4, characterized in that the specified number allocation means or a number linkage means in its vicinity is provided that changes the visual appearance according to the remaining number of the second specified number (and the remaining number of the first specified number).

According to the means B-5, for example, by providing a "second remaining number teaching means for teaching the remaining number of the second specified number" as the number of times linking means, it is possible to easily grasp how many more game balls need to be inserted into the specified number of times distribution means to guide the game ball to the second guide passage. Also, for example, by providing a "first remaining number teaching means for teaching the remaining number of the first specified number" as the number of times linking means, it is possible to easily grasp how many more times the specified number of times distribution means can guide the game ball to the second guide passage. Therefore, even if the specified number of times distribution means is directly viewed, it is possible to eliminate a situation in which the first specified number or the second specified number is difficult to understand, and the remaining number of the first specified number or the second specified number can be used reliably as a guide to a game strategy, such as playing with the familiar goal of reducing the remaining number of the second specified number to "0" or changing the progress of the game depending on the remaining number of the second specified number.

Furthermore, for example, if a three-color LED is provided as the number-of-times linking means, and the first and second specified numbers are each two, and the LED emits blue light when there are two second specified numbers remaining, emits red light when there is one second specified number remaining, flashes yellow when there are zero second specified numbers remaining (the first specified number is two), and flashes white when there is one first specified number remaining, etc., it will be easier for players to notice that the state (state, posture, direction, position, etc.) of the specified number allocation means changes each time a game ball is guided, and the presentation can be improved. Therefore, the effect of adding rhythm to the game and increasing motivation to play can be more reliably achieved.

Means B-6. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-5, characterized in that the specified number of times allocation means or its vicinity is provided with a state linkage means for changing the visual state of the specified number of times allocation means when the guidance means is in the guidance state and when the guidance means is in the non-guidance state.

According to means B-6, since there is no change in the guiding means even if a game ball enters the second ball entry means after the guiding means is set to the guiding state, it is possible to, for example, make the visual appearance of the specified number of times distribution means as inconspicuous as possible (for example, dim the lighting) so that the movement of the game ball toward the second ball entry means is not drawn to much attention. In other words, it is possible to make it easier to recognize that a ball entering the second ball entry means does not have the effect of putting the guiding means into the guiding state, and to make it difficult for a player to witness an undesirable situation such as multiple game balls entering the second ball entry means. On the other hand, when the guiding means is in the unguiding state, the specified number of times distribution means is made relatively conspicuous, increasing the attention to the specified number of times distribution means, and ensuring that the player can enjoy the playability related to the specified number of times distribution means.

Means B-7. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-6, characterized in that the gaming ball guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means always enters the second ball entry means.

By means of means B-7, it is possible to create a situation in which, when a gaming ball reaches the distribution means a specified number of times, the gaming ball always enters the second ball entry means and the guiding means is put into a guiding state, thereby adding greater excitement to the game.

Means B-8. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-6, characterized in that the gaming balls guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means are guided to a second distribution means that distributes the gaming balls to the second guide passage and the second non-guided passage at a specific ratio.

By using the method B-8, it is possible to increase the number of times the specified number of times distribution means is used and reduce the proportion of balls being guided to the second non-guiding passage by the specified number of times distribution means without significantly changing the probability that the game ball will enter the second ball entry means.

Means B-9. A gaming machine according to any one of means B-1 to B-6, characterized in that the gaming balls guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means are guided to a second distribution means that distributes the gaming balls to the second guide passage and the first guide passage at a specific ratio.

Measure B-9 provides the same effect as measure B-8. Furthermore, this measure can prevent the game ball from entering the specified number of times distribution means in a state where the guiding means is already in the guiding state, which would be a complete waste (there is a possibility that the game ball will enter the first ball entry means). Therefore, the effect of increasing interest by providing the specified number of times distribution means is further provided.

Means B-10. A gaming machine described in any one of means B-1 to B-9, characterized in that the second ball entry means is configured to allow a ball to enter only when it is guided to the second guide passage by the specified number of times distribution means.

By means of means B-10, the value of the specified number of times allocation means can be increased, and interest can be generated by the state of the specified number of times allocation means and the behavior of the game balls involved in the specified number of times allocation means.

In addition, it may be that "the game area includes a specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter, the first ball entry means and the second ball entry means are configured to allow a game ball moving through the specific area to enter, and the second guide passage, the second unguided passage (corresponding to means B-3; the first guide passage, the first unguided passage, and means B-8; the second distribution means), and the specified number of distribution means are provided in the specific area."

Means C. Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, there is known a pachinko machine, for example. A pachinko machine is a machine in which a game is played using a gaming ball, and is provided with a gaming area in which the gaming ball can move, and is configured such that the gaming ball launched by a launching means is guided to the gaming area (see, for example, JP-A-11-197312).

The ball entry means provided in the game area includes a guide state that allows or makes it easy for the game ball to enter the ball entry means, and a guide state that makes it impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the ball entry means. Furthermore, as a ball entry means having a guide state, there is also a non-electric ball entry means that mechanically links with a game ball that has entered the ball entry means or a ball entry means other than the ball entry means, and a guide state that is not in a guide state is set to a guide state.

However, there is a demand for improved crime prevention for non-electric ball entry devices equipped with guide means.

The present invention has been made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide an amusement machine that can improve crime prevention.

Means C-1. A play area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A first ball entry means having a ball entry section into which a game ball moving in the game area can enter, and a second ball entry means,
A configuration in which an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player is given based on the entry of a game ball into the first ball entry means,
The first ball entry means includes a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving beside the front ball entry portion of the first ball entry means is guided to the ball entry portion and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
An opening interlocking means is provided for mechanically interlocking with the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to set the guiding means in the unguided state to the guiding state,
A gaming machine characterized by being equipped with an interlocking state changing means that can change its state between an interlocking permission state that allows the interlocking of a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means with the guiding means via the opening interlocking means, and an interlocking restriction state that restricts the interlocking of a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means with the guiding means via the opening interlocking means.

According to means C-1, by setting the interlocking state changing means to the interlocking restriction state, even if a game ball is placed into the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means, the guiding means, which is in the non-guiding state, will not be set to the guiding state. Therefore, for example, by setting the interlocking state changing means to the interlocking restriction state when there is a possibility of fraud or when no game is being played, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as illegally setting the guiding means to the guiding state. As a result, it is possible to improve the crime prevention of the first ball entry means equipped with the guiding means.

Means C-2. The gaming machine described in means C-1, characterized in that the interlocking state changing means can change the state to the interlocking permitted state when the power of the gaming machine is on, and is set to the interlocking restricted state when the power of the gaming machine is off.

According to means C-2, when the power supply of the gaming machine is off, it is difficult to electrically detect fraud using various sensors, etc., and fraud is difficult to notice. However, by setting the interlocking state changing means to the interlocking restriction state, it is possible to prevent actions such as allowing a gaming ball to enter the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and leaving the guiding means in the guiding state when the power supply of the gaming machine is off outside the business hours of the gaming hall.

Means C-3. The gaming machine described in means C-1 or C-2, characterized in that it is provided with a covering means for covering the front of the guiding means.

Means C-3 can prevent the act of illegally putting a guidance means in an unguided state into a guidance state by directly applying force to the guidance means (without having to cause a game ball to enter the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means). Therefore, in cooperation with the interlocking state changing means that can set the interlocking state to a restricted state, it is possible to more reliably prevent the act of illegally putting a guidance means in an unguided state into a guidance state.

Means C-4. A linked ball detection means is provided for detecting a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and before it comes into contact with the opening linkage means;
A gaming machine described in any of means C-1 to C-3, characterized in that the linkage state change means is set to the linkage allowable state during a specific period determined based on the timing of detection by the linkage ball detection means.

Since the opening interlocking means is mechanically interlocked with a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means, even if the power is on and various sensors are monitoring for fraud, if a gaming ball enters the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means, the opening interlocking means will interlock with the gaming ball and cause the guidance means, which is in an unguided state, to switch to a guidance state. On the other hand, if the interlocking state changing means is in an interlocking restriction state, it is possible to prevent the opening interlocking means from interlocking with a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means.

In this regard, according to Measure C-4, when the gaming machine is powered on, the interlocking permission state is not set for the entire period, but a period (specific period) during which the interlocking permission state is set is specified. Therefore, even when the gaming machine is powered on, by making the period during which the interlocking state changing means is in the interlocking permission state as short as possible, the effect of preventing fraudulent acts of fraudulently changing a guidance means that is in an unguided state to a guidance state is further enhanced.

In addition, by setting the interlocking restriction state outside the specific period, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as inserting something other than a game ball into the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means, or allowing game balls to flow into a passageway from the ball entry portion of the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to the open interlocking means in a configuration in which game balls can flow into the passageway from the middle. In addition, the "specific period" may be within a specific time from detection by the interlocking ball detection means, or may be within a second specific time after the first specific time from detection by the interlocking ball detection means.

Means C-5. An error detection means for detecting an error state is provided,
A gaming machine described in any one of means C-1 to C-4, characterized in that when the error detection means detects an error, the interlocking state change means is set to the interlocking restricted state.

Measure C-5 provides an even more effective function of preventing fraudulent acts of fraudulently changing a guidance means that is not in a guidance state into a guidance state.

The "error detection means" has a function of monitoring whether the gaming machine is behaving normally (or abnormally). In addition, examples of "error states" include, for example,
(1) A vibration detection means is provided for detecting vibrations of the gaming machine, and when the vibration detection means detects a gaming ball in the specific area,
(2) A magnetic detection means is provided for detecting magnetism in the vicinity of the game area, and when the magnetic detection means detects the magnetic field,
(3) A guidance state grasping means capable of grasping that the guidance means is in the guidance state, when the power supply of the gaming machine is turned on, if the guidance means is in the guidance state,
(4) In a configuration comprising a gaming machine main body and a door member that is provided on the front side of the gaming machine main body so as to be able to be opened and closed, and the gaming area being provided between the gaming machine main body and the door member, an open state detection means is provided for detecting that the door member is in the open state, and when the door member is in the open state, the guiding means is set to the guiding state (when a guiding state grasping means capable of grasping that the guiding means is in the guiding state grasps that the guiding means has been set to the guiding state, or when a linked ball detection means detects a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and before it comes into contact with the opening linked means detects it),
(5) A machine comprising a second guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the second ball entry means, a second unguided passage through which a passing game ball may not enter the second ball entry means, and a second distribution means for distributing game balls to the second guide passage and the second unguided passage in a specific ratio, wherein a second ball entry distribution detection means is provided for detecting game balls guided to the second distribution means, and a second guide detection means for detecting game balls guided to the second guide passage and a second unguided detection means for detecting game balls guided to the second unguided passage are provided corresponding to the second distribution means, and when it is determined that the number of game balls discharged from the second distribution means is greater than the number of game balls guided to the second distribution means,
Alternatively, when a first ball entry detection means detects a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means within a certain time after it is determined that the number of game balls discharged from the second distribution means is greater than the number of game balls guided to the second distribution means, or when a guidance state grasping means capable of grasping that the guidance means is in the guidance state grasps that the guidance means that was in the unguided state has been put into the guidance state,
(6) A specific area ball entry detection means is provided for detecting all game balls that have entered the specific area, and when the specific area ball entry detection means detects a specified number of times or more within a specified time,
(7) A game machine comprising a first guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the first ball entry means, a first unguided passage through which a passing game ball may not enter the first ball entry means, and a first distribution means for distributing game balls to the first guide passage and the first unguided passage in a specific ratio, wherein a first ball entry detection means (linked ball detection means) for detecting a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means is provided, and a first guide detection means for detecting a game ball guided to the first guide passage and a first unguided detection means for detecting a game ball guided to the first unguided passage are provided corresponding to the first distribution means, and when the first ball entry means is detected outside the ball entry permitted period determined based on the timing of detection by the first guide detection means corresponding to the first distribution means at which a game ball guided by the first guide passage enters the first ball entry means,
(8) The guidance means is provided with a guidance state grasping means capable of grasping that the guidance means is in the guidance state, and the guidance means in the non-guiding state is put into the guidance state outside of a state change period determined based on the timing of detection by a second ball entry detection means (linked ball detection means) that detects a game ball that has entered the second ball entry means. When an error state is detected, the game may be stopped (the launch means does not operate, the game does not move to an advantageous state, etc.). When an error state is detected, an error notification (announcement is made in the gaming machine, an error signal is output to the outside of the gaming machine) may be made.

By adopting the above (1), it is possible to prevent acts of intentionally vibrating the gaming machine to manipulate the behavior of gaming balls in a specific area, while eliminating the impact caused when a person involved in the gaming hall where the gaming machine is installed performs maintenance on the inside or back of the gaming machine with the power turned on and then returns it to its original state (closing the door members, etc.) and the impact caused when a player unintentionally bumps into the gaming machine when sitting down in a chair in front of the gaming machine or standing up. By adopting the above (2), it is possible to prevent acts of using magnets to manipulate the behavior of gaming balls in a specific area. By adopting the above (3), it is possible to prevent the guiding means from being illegally put into the guiding state when the power of the gaming machine is off, and the game from starting in that state even after the power is turned on (it is preferable to handle this case differently from the case where a predetermined error state occurs or a power outage occurs when the guiding means is properly put into the guiding state and the error state is restored by turning the power on and off, and the method of releasing the error state may be other than turning the power on and off, or the power outage information may be confirmed), and it is possible to prevent the game hall from forgetting to put the guiding means into the non-guiding state at the end of the business of the previous day and starting the business of the next day as it is. By adopting the above (4), it is possible to grasp that the guiding means has been illegally put into the guiding state by opening the door member, and it is possible to prevent the game from being resumed as it is. By adopting the above (5), it is possible to grasp the presence of a game ball that has been illegally put into the second ball entry means, and it is possible to prevent the game from being continued as it is. By adopting the above means (6), it is possible to grasp that an illegal ball entry operation into a specific area may be performed, and it is possible to carry out a confirmation operation, etc. By adopting the above (7), it is possible to know that the game ball has illegally entered the first ball entry means without going through the first distribution means, and it is possible to prevent the game from continuing as it is. By adopting the above (8), it is possible to know that the guidance means may have been put into the guidance state in a manner different from the normal flow, such as when the game ball has entered the second ball entry means and the guidance means in the unguided state is put into the guidance state, and it is possible to prevent the game from continuing as it is.

Means C-6. A linked ball detection means is provided for detecting a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and before it comes into contact with the opening linkage means;
A plurality of passage detection means capable of detecting game balls passing through predetermined portions of the specific area are provided,
A configuration in which a game ball that has entered the specific area is detected by a plurality of the passing detection means before being detected by the linked ball detection means,
a passage information storage means for storing detection information of the passage detection means,
The gaming machine described in means C-5 is characterized in that when the linked ball detection means detects the error state based on the detection information of the passing detection means stored in the passing information storage means.

According to means C-6, when the interlocking ball detection means detects, by checking whether or not detection information from a plurality of specific combinations of passing detection means is stored, it is possible to ascertain whether or not a game ball that has entered a specific area has normally entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means. Therefore, the effect of increasing the crime prevention of the first ball entry means equipped with a guide means is more reliably achieved.

The "passage information storage means" may be configured, for example, as a passing information counter corresponding to each passing detection means, which adds "1" when the passing detection means detects, subtracts "1" from a predetermined number of passing information counters related to the detection of a game ball being discharged from a specific area, and is configured to enter an error state if even one of the passing information counters related to the detection of the linked ball detection means has a value of "0".

Means C-7. A gaming machine described in any one of means C-1 to C-6, characterized in that the interlocking state changing means prevents a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means from reaching the opening interlocking means in the interlocking restricted state.

According to Measure C-7, it is possible to prevent the interlocking state changing means from coming into contact with the opening interlocking means and being damaged, while also making it possible to put a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means into a state where it is not interlocked with the opening interlocking means. It is also possible to "provide an interlocking cover member that covers the interlocking state changing means." In this case, it is possible to prevent an act of operating the interlocking state changing means to put a gaming ball into a state where it can reach the opening interlocking means.

Means C-8. A gaming machine as described in any one of means C-1 to C-7, characterized in that it is provided with a fraudulent ball storage means for guiding and storing gaming balls that are prevented from reaching the open interlocking means by the interlocking state changing means in the interlocking restricted state.

Measure C-8 makes it possible to leave traces of illegal ball entries, which can be used for crime prevention measures and responses after illegal entries are discovered.

Means C-9: A guidance state instruction means capable of switching between a guidance response mode indicating that the guidance means is in the guidance state and a non-guidance response mode indicating that the guidance means is in the non-guidance state;
An opening additional interlocking means that comes into contact with the game ball after the opening interlocking means is interlocked and interlocks with the game ball, and sets the guidance state teaching means to the guidance corresponding mode;
A gaming machine described in any of means C-1 to C-8, characterized in that the guidance means is linked to a gaming ball that has entered the first ball entry means in the guidance state, and is equipped with a closing additional linkage means that sets the guidance state teaching means to the non-guidance corresponding mode.

According to means C-9, the state of the guidance state instruction means can be mechanically switched by using the game balls discharged outside the gaming machine in association with the guidance means being in the guidance state and the non-guiding state. Therefore, the state of the guidance means can be reliably taught without electrical control.

Means D. Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, there is known, for example, a pachinko machine. A pachinko machine is a machine in which a game is played using a gaming ball, and is provided with a gaming area in which the gaming ball can move, and is configured such that the gaming ball launched by a launching means is guided to the gaming area (see, for example, JP-A-11-197312).

The ball entry means provided in the game area includes a guide state that allows or makes it easy for the game ball to enter the ball entry means, and a guide state that makes it impossible or difficult for the game ball to enter the ball entry means. Furthermore, as a ball entry means having a guide state, there is also a non-electric ball entry means that mechanically links with a game ball that has entered the ball entry means or a ball entry means other than the ball entry means, and a guide state that is not in a guide state is set to a guide state.

However, there is a demand for improved crime prevention and presentation in gaming machines equipped with a non-electric ball entry device that also includes a guide device.

The present invention was made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can improve crime prevention and presentation.

Means D-1. A game area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A first ball entry means having a ball entry section into which a game ball moving in the game area can enter, and a second ball entry means,
A configuration in which an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player is given based on the entry of a game ball into the first ball entry means,
The first ball entry means includes a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving beside the front ball entry portion of the first ball entry means is guided to the ball entry portion and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
An opening interlocking means for mechanically interlocking with the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to set the guide means, which is in the unguided state, to the guide state;
A closing interlocking means for mechanically interlocking with the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means to change the guiding means from the guiding state to the non-guiding state;
A gaming machine comprising a guidance state grasping means for grasping that the guidance means is in the guidance state.

According to the means D-1, even in a configuration where the guide means is mechanically linked to a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means via the opening linkage means or the closing linkage means, it is possible to know that the guide means is in the guide state. Therefore, it is possible to monitor the state of the guide means, and it is possible to know that the guide means has been illegally put into the guide state, and to easily inform the player that the guide means has been put into the guide state. As a result, it is possible to improve crime prevention and performance. In addition, basically, if the power of the gaming machine is on, it is possible to know whether the guide means is in the guide state by directly detecting the guide means, which is more accurate than, for example, knowing the state of the guide means by saying that the guide means was moved by control and therefore should be in the guide state, and even if the power is off, it is possible to reliably know the state of the guide means when the power is on. Therefore, it is possible to deal with fraudulent acts such as putting the guide means into the guide state when the power is off, or forcibly putting the guide means into the guide state even though there is no electrical processing to put the guide means into the guide state.

Means D-2. The gaming machine described in means D-1, characterized in that the guidance state grasping means detects the guidance means or an associated member that moves between an open corresponding position and a closed corresponding position in conjunction with the guidance means when the guidance means is in the guidance state or the non-guiding state.

According to means D-2, for example, compared to trying to grasp (estimate) the state of the guiding means based on the detection of a ball entry detection means that detects a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means, the state of the guiding means can be grasped more reliably and accurately by directly checking the guiding means. In addition, by using the guiding state grasping means in combination with the ball entry detection means, more stringent measures against fraud can be taken.

The associated member may be configured to be integral with the guide means (either integrally formed or connected so that they cannot be displaced relative to each other), or may be configured to be separate from the guide means but to be linked to the guide means. Also, the opening linkage means may or may not be an associated member.

Means D-3. A gaming machine as described in means D-1 or D-2, characterized in that it is provided with guidance state instruction means that is arranged to be visible from the front of the gaming machine, and that is set to a guidance-responsive mode when the guidance state grasping means grasps that the guidance means is in the guidance state, and that is set to a non-guidance-responsive mode when the guidance state grasping means grasps that the guidance means is in the non-guidance state.

Method D-3 can prevent a situation in which the driver does not realize that the guidance means is in the guidance state.

Means D-4. A specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter is provided,
The first ball entry means and the second ball entry means are configured to allow a game ball moving through the specific area to enter the ball entry means,
The specific region is
a first guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the first ball entry means;
a first hidden passage through which a passing game ball has no possibility of entering the first ball entry means;
a first distribution means for distributing game balls to the first guide passage and the first unguided passage at a specific ratio;
A gaming machine described in any of means D-1 to D-3, characterized in that the guidance state teaching means is provided at a position corresponding to the upstream side of the specific area relative to the first ball entry means.

For example, if the first ball entry means (guiding means), the second ball entry means, and the entrance to the specific area are provided at a relatively large distance from each other, if the player is distracted by the game balls attempting to enter the specific area or the behavior of the game balls in the first distribution means, the player may not notice when a game ball enters the second ball entry means and the guiding means is in the guiding state (especially if multiple first distribution means are provided, for example, there is a high possibility that the player will be watching the behavior of the game balls in the first distribution means and miss the game ball entering the second ball entry means).

In this regard, according to means D-4, the guidance state instruction means is provided in correspondence with the upstream side of the specific area as far as possible, so that even if the player is viewing the first distribution means, etc., upstream of the specific area, the change in the state of the guidance state instruction means can be fully brought into the player's field of vision. This makes it easier for the player to notice that the guidance means has been put into the guidance state. Therefore, the player can fully enjoy a relatively exhilarating game while being aware that the guidance means is in the guidance state, and it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player stops playing without realizing that the guidance means has been put into the guidance state.

When the guidance state teaching means is installed separately from the guidance means, it is desirable to make it easy to understand what the guidance response mode of the guidance state teaching means means (what it corresponds to). For example, multiple light emitting means may be provided between the guidance state teaching means and the guidance means, and the multiple light emitting means may be configured to flash sequentially in conjunction with the guidance state teaching means being set to the open response position. Also, a device that imitates the shape of the guidance means may be used as the guidance state teaching means. Furthermore, the guidance state teaching means may be provided near the entrance to the specific area. In this case, a game can be played in which a game ball is launched aiming at the entrance to the specific area while keeping in mind that the guidance means is in the guidance state.

Means D-5. A notification means for notifying when an error state is detected,
A gaming machine described in any of means D-1 to D-4, characterized in that the notification means issues a notification when the guidance state grasping means grasps that the guidance means is in the guidance state when the power of the gaming machine is turned on.

According to means D-5, the guidance state grasping means can check the state of the guidance means when the power supply of the gaming machine is turned on, and if the guidance means is in the guidance state, an alert is issued to prompt the user to take action to change the guidance means to the non-guiding state. This can prevent a situation in which business is started with the guidance means in the guidance state in an amusement hall or the like where the gaming machine is installed.

In addition, in response to the above-mentioned means D-3, "the notification by the notification means may be made with contents including notifications by means other than the guidance state instruction means." In this case, when the notification only sets the open/close instruction means to a guidance-compatible mode, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to set the guidance means to a non-guidance state simply by visually recognizing a familiar mode.

Means D-6. The opening interlocking means is configured to interlock the game ball that has entered the second ball entry means with the guiding means in the non-guiding state, and to put the guiding means into the guiding state;
a notification means for notifying the user when an error state is detected;
and a second ball entry detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered the second ball entry means,
A gaming machine described in any of means D-1 to D-5, characterized in that the notification means makes an alert when the guidance means is in the guidance state without there being any detection information from the second ball entry detection means.

According to the means D-6, the second ball entry detection means can provide an instruction or effect that a game ball has entered the second ball entry means. In addition, it is possible to detect the act of directly applying force to the guiding means to illegally put the guiding means into a guiding state, thereby improving crime prevention.

In addition, the notification means may be configured to issue a notification when the guidance means is in the guidance state outside of a specific period that is determined based on the timing of detection by the second ball entry detection means.

Means D-7. A linkage state change means is provided that can change between a linkage permission state that allows the linkage between the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and the guiding means via the opening linkage means, and a linkage restriction state that restricts the linkage between the game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means and the guiding means via the opening linkage means;
The opening interlocking means is configured to be displaceable between a reference position and an operating position for changing the guiding means from the unguiding state to the guiding state, and is configured to automatically return to the reference position after changing from the reference position to the operating position in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to change the guiding means to the guiding state,
A gaming machine described in any of means D-1 to D-6, characterized in that the interlocking state change means regulates the displacement of the opening interlocking means, which is in the reference position, in the interlocking restricted state.

According to means D-7, by setting the interlocking state changing means to the interlocking restriction state, the opening interlocking means is held in the reference position, making it impossible to set the guidance means to the guidance state using the opening interlocking means. Therefore, for example, by setting the interlocking state changing means to the interlocking restriction state when there is a possibility of fraud or when no game is being played, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts such as fraudulently setting the guidance means to the guidance state.

Means D-8. The opening interlocking means is configured to be displaceable between a reference position and an operating position that displaces the guiding means from the unguiding state to the guiding state, and is configured to automatically return to the reference position after displacing from the reference position to the operating position in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the first ball entry means or the second ball entry means to put the guiding means into the guiding state,
an operation detection means for detecting that the release interlocking means is in the operating position;
A gaming machine described in any of means D-1 to D-7, characterized in that when the guidance state of the guidance means is grasped by the guidance state grasping means, if there is no detection information from the operation detection means, control corresponding to an error state is performed.

Measure D-8 makes it possible to determine when the guide means is in the guiding state by applying force directly to the guide means without engaging the opening interlocking means, thereby improving crime prevention.

Means D-9. The guide means includes a plurality of guide portions which are displaced synchronously with each other;
The gaming machine described in any one of means D-1 to D-8, wherein the guidance state grasping means detects any one of the plurality of guidance sections.

According to means D-9, even if the guidance means is configured to have multiple guidance parts, all of the multiple guidance parts are configured to move synchronously, so the guidance state grasping means can grasp that the guidance means has been put into a guidance state by checking the operation of any one of the guidance parts.

Means D-10. The gaming machine described in means D-9, characterized in that the multiple guide sections are configured to work in conjunction with each other.

Method D-10 ensures that multiple guide parts are displaced synchronously. The multiple guide parts may be connected so that they cannot be displaced relative to each other, or they may be connected so that they can be displaced relative to each other.

Means D-11. A gaming machine according to any one of means D-1 to D-10, characterized in that the guidance state grasping means includes guidance detection means for detecting the guidance means in the guidance state, and non-guidance detection means for detecting the guidance means in the non-guidance state.

By means of means D-11, it is possible to grasp that the guidance means is in an incomplete state that is neither in the guidance state nor in the non-guiding state. Therefore, for example, in a configuration in which only the guidance detection means is provided among the guidance detection means and the non-guiding detection means, the guidance means is in an incomplete state where it is not detected by the guidance detection means, and the gaming machine judges that the guidance means is in the non-guiding state (a state in which the guidance means is judged to be normal when the non-guiding state is normal), but it is possible to grasp the occurrence of a situation in which there is a possibility that the gaming ball will be guided when it passes through a position that it should not be guided to in the non-guiding state.

If it is determined that the guidance means is in an intermediate state that is neither a guidance state nor a non-guiding state, it may be set to an error state, or it may be configured to determine whether the guidance means is in a normal state, a guidance state or a non-guiding state, and to link a game ball parked at a specified position on the back of the gaming machine to the corresponding linking means, thereby setting the guidance means to a guidance state or a non-guiding state.

Means E. Conventionally, pachinko machines and the like are known as a type of gaming machine. Pachinko machines are used to play games using gaming balls, and are configured to have a gaming area in which the gaming balls can move, and to guide the gaming balls launched by a launching means into the gaming area.

Some pachinko machines are also equipped with a specific ball entry means having a specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter, and when a game ball that enters such a specific area enters a special ball entry means within the same area, a game state advantageous to the player is created (see, for example, JP-A-11-197312).

However, when it comes to gaming machines, there is always a demand for new configurations and other means to add new excitement.

The present invention was made to solve the problems exemplified above, and its purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can increase entertainment value.

Means E-1. A play area to which the game ball launched by the launching means is guided;
A specific area into which a game ball moving through the game area can enter;
a ball entry means having a ball entry section into which a game ball moving in the specific area can enter;
A configuration in which an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player is given based on the entry of a game ball into the ball entry means,
The ball entry means is provided with a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving on the side of the ball entry section of the ball entry means can be guided to the ball entry section side and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is restricted from entering the ball entry section,
The specific region is
A guide passage through which a passing game ball may enter the ball entry means;
a blind passage through which a passing game ball cannot enter the ball entry means;
a distribution means for distributing game balls to the guide passage and the unguided passage at a specific ratio at a branch point between the guide passage and the unguided passage,
The distribution means is provided with a guidance change distribution means including a constant guidance section which guides the game ball to the guidance passage whether the guidance means is in the guidance state or the unguided state, and a conditional guidance section which guides the game ball to the unguided passage when the guidance means is in the unguided state and guides the game ball to the guidance passage when the guidance means is in the guidance state.

According to means E-1, the destination of the game ball in the conditional guidance section of the guidance change distribution means changes depending on whether the guidance means of the ball entry means is in a guidance state or a non-guidance state. In other words, it is possible to provide novel gameplay in which the path of the game ball desired by the player in a specific area (guidance change distribution means) changes depending on the state of the guidance means. This makes it possible to diversify the gameplay, increase the variety of the gameplay (suppress boredom), etc., and as a result, it is possible to increase interest, etc.

The ball entry means's guiding means may be electrically operated (for example, the guiding state lasts for 6 seconds or until 10 game balls have entered the game), or may be mechanically operated in conjunction with the game balls, etc.

Means E-2. The gaming machine described in means E-1, characterized in that it is equipped with a guidance mode change means that changes the visual recognition mode of the conditional guidance section between a state in which the gaming ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches the guidance section in the guidance state and a state in which the gaming ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches the guidance section in the non-guidance state.

According to the means E-2, it is possible to instruct, suggest, or emphasize that the conditional guiding section is in a state in which it is guiding the game ball to the guiding passage by making the conditional guiding section stand out. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player misses the moment when the game ball is guided to the conditional guiding section, which is in a state in which the guided game ball is guided to the ball entry section by the guiding section in the guiding state.

For example, the conditional guidance section may be hole-shaped, and a guidance mode changing means capable of emitting light by a predetermined light-emitting means may be provided so as to surround the conditional guidance section, so that the guidance mode changing means is illuminated when the guidance means is in the guidance state (and is turned off when the guidance means is in the non-guiding state). Furthermore, for example, a guidance mode changing means may also be provided corresponding to the constant guidance section, so that when the guidance means is in the guidance state, the guidance mode changing means is configured to have the same mode as the guidance mode changing means of the conditional guidance section.

In addition, if the guidance means is a non-electric guidance means that changes between a guidance state and a non-guiding state in conjunction with a game ball that has entered the ball entry means, it may be configured to "include guidance state grasping means that can grasp that the guidance means is in the guidance state, and guidance mode changing means that changes the visible mode of the conditional guidance section when the guidance means is in the guidance state and when it is in the non-guiding state."

On the other hand, if the guidance means is an electrically powered guidance means that changes between a guidance state and a non-guidance state, and the period during which it is in the guidance state is determined by time, the time it takes for the game ball guided to the conditional guidance section to reach the first ball entry section may be taken into consideration, and the configuration may include "a guidance determination means that decides to put the guidance means in the guidance state, and when it is decided by the guidance determination means to put the guidance means in the guidance state, the guidance means is put in the guidance state for a second specified time after a first specified time, and a guidance mode change means that changes the visible mode of the conditional guidance section between a state in which the game ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches the guidance means in the guidance state (if there are no problems) and a state in which there is both a possibility that the guidance means will be in the guidance state and a possibility that the guidance means will be in the non-guidance state when the game ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches the guidance means in the non-guidance state" (a state in which the game ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches the guidance means in the non-guidance state). For example, if it takes approximately 1 second for the game ball to move from the conditional guidance section to the guidance means, and the remaining time until the guidance means closes is 1.3 seconds or more, the guidance mode change means, which is illuminated by a three-color LED, may be configured to emit blue light, emit yellow light when the remaining time is between 1.3 seconds and 1 second, and be turned off when the remaining time is less than 1 second.

Means E-3. A means for changing the visual recognition mode of the allocating means;
The gaming machine described in means E-1 or E-2 is characterized in that it is equipped with a ball entry detection means capable of detecting a gaming ball entering the distribution means.

Measure E-3 makes the distribution means where game balls are present (and the distribution means that may be introduced next) stand out, while making the appearance of distribution means where no game balls are present less noticeable, thereby helping the player to follow the behavior of the game balls in a specific area with their eyes, improving the presentation, etc.

Means E-4. The allocating means is provided in plurality,
The gaming machine described in any of means E-1 to E-3 is characterized in that the guidance change distribution means is equipped with an upstream guidance change distribution means configured so that a gaming ball guided to the conditional guidance section reaches a position where it is guided to the front ball entry section of the ball entry means by the guidance means in the guiding state, and a gaming ball guided to the constant guiding section reaches the distribution means other than the guidance change distribution means.

According to means E-4, when the guidance means is in a guidance state, the upstream guidance change distribution means, which is not the distribution means most downstream in the specific area, has a chance to directly cause the game ball to enter the ball entry means. This makes it possible to change the expectation of the ball entering the ball entry means relative to the distribution means, and the balance of the expectation of the ball entering the ball between the multiple distribution means, and the game playability can be changed more significantly by changing the state of the guidance means. Therefore, the above-mentioned effects, such as increasing interest, are even more pronounced.

It may also be possible that "in the specific area, the guidance change distribution means is not provided downstream of the upstream guidance change distribution means." In this case, when the guidance means is in a guidance state, the ball winning expectation rate in the upstream guidance change distribution means is higher than the ball winning expectation rate in the distribution means further downstream. Therefore, the effects of diversifying the gameplay and increasing interest are more pronounced.

Means E-5: The allocating means includes a first allocating means, a second allocating means guided from the first allocating means via the guide passage, and a third allocating means guided from the second allocating means via the guide passage;
A gaming machine described in any one of means E-1 to E-4, characterized in that it is provided with a bypass passage capable of guiding gaming balls from the first distribution means to the third distribution means without passing through the second distribution means.

Measure E-5 provides more pronounced effects such as diversifying gameplay and increasing interest.

Means E-6. The gaming machine described in means E-5, characterized in that the second allocation means is the guidance change allocation means.

According to means E-6, when the guiding means is in a non-guiding state, the player is happy that the game ball is carried downstream in the bypass passage of the first distribution means, but when the guiding means is in a guiding state, the player is not happy that the game ball is carried downstream in the bypass passage of the first distribution means. In this way, the game playability can be greatly changed by changing the state of the guiding means. In particular, when the configuration of the above-mentioned means E-4 is adopted and the second distribution means is an upstream guide change distribution means, it is more desirable for the game ball to be guided to the second distribution means than for the game ball to be guided to the third distribution means in the bypass passage of the first distribution means, and this effect becomes more pronounced.

Means E-7: A guidance determination means for determining to set the guidance means to the guidance state;
a guidance standby time determination means for determining a standby time until the guidance means is brought into the guidance state;
a guidance time determination means for determining a guidance time for which the guidance means is in the guidance state,
When the guidance determination means determines that the guidance means is to be in the guidance state, the guidance means is configured to be in the guidance state for the guidance time after the waiting time has elapsed,
A gaming machine described in any of means E-1 to E-6, characterized in that it is equipped with an information presentation means capable of deriving a presentation indicating whether or not the information presentation means will be in the information presentation state during the waiting time.

Method E-7 allows for more exciting effects related to the behavior of the game ball in a specific area.

It may also be configured as "including a guidance trigger means through which a game ball moving in the game area can enter or pass, and a guidance trigger detection means for detecting a game ball that has entered or passed through the guidance trigger means, and the guidance determination means performs a guidance lottery to determine whether or not to put the guidance means into a guidance state based on detection by the guidance trigger detection means, and determines to put the guidance means into the guidance state if the guidance lottery is won." The guidance trigger means may also be provided outside a specific area in the game area, or may be provided in the specific area.

Furthermore, for example, a semi-transparent cover may be provided in front of the guidance means, or a lamp may be provided that shines light toward the cover, thereby making the guidance means less visible and increasing interest in the guidance presentation means. In addition, a presentation operation means that can be operated by the player may be provided, and a presentation that uses the presentation operation means as a presentation by the guidance presentation means (for example, the content of the presentation changes depending on whether or not the presentation operation means is operated, or the operation of the presentation operation means is used as a trigger to transition to the next presentation) may be provided.

It is also possible to combine the technical matters described in the above means A, B, C, D, and E as appropriate (it is also possible to combine parts of each means).

The basic configuration of various gaming machines to which the above means are applied is shown below.

a. The gaming machine in each of the above means is a pinball gaming machine. A more detailed example of the form is "a pinball gaming machine equipped with an operating means (a gaming ball launching handle) operated by a player, a launching means (launching motor, etc.) that bounces and launches gaming balls based on the operation of the operating means, a gaming area to which the launched gaming balls are guided, and each ball entry means (general entry device, variable entry device, operating port, etc.) arranged within the gaming area."

b. The gaming machine in each of the above means is a pinball gaming machine with a gaming area extending in a substantially vertical direction. A more detailed example of the embodiment is "a pinball gaming machine that includes an operating means (a gaming ball launching handle) operated by a player, a launching means (a launching motor, etc.) that bounces and launches gaming balls based on the operation of the operating means, a predetermined gaming area (for example, the gaming area is composed of a gaming board, etc.) that extends in a substantially vertical direction and to which the launched gaming balls are guided, and each ball entry means (a general winning device, a variable winning device, an operating port, etc.) that is arranged within the gaming area, and that is configured so that the behavior of the gaming balls flowing down the gaming area can be visually observed."

c. The gaming machine or each pinball gaming machine in each of the above means is a pachinko machine or a gaming machine equivalent to a pachinko machine.

10... Pachinko machine, 32... Variable winning device, 33a... First start winning device, 33b... Second start winning device, 34... Through gate, 42... Decorative pattern display device, 43a... First special display device, 43b... Second special display device, 261... Main control device, 262... Sub-control device.

Claims (1)

A launching means capable of launching a game ball;
and a ball entry means having a ball entry section into which the game ball launched by the launching means can enter;
The game machine is configured to be capable of providing an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player based on the entry of a game ball into the ball entry means,
The ball entry means is configured to include a guide means capable of changing between a guide state in which the game ball moving around the periphery of the ball entry means is guided to the ball entry means and a non-guiding state in which the game ball is not guided,
A trigger means is provided for changing the state of the guiding means to a state in which the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased when a predetermined number of game balls reach the guiding means,
The advantageous state can be established even if the guidance means is not in the guidance state,
a teaching means for teaching that the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased,
The state in which the possibility of causing the guiding means to be in the guiding state is increased may end without the game ball being guided to the ball entrance portion by the guiding means,
A means for terminating the state when a game ball reaches the trigger means during a period in which the possibility of the guiding means being in the guiding state is increased;
A gaming machine comprising: a means for taking a notification mode corresponding to the guidance state of the guidance means.

Images