JP2024083153A - Game Device - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase game properties.SOLUTION: A game device 1 includes a rotation unit motor 100 for rotating a ball storage section 21 for storing game media, and a rotating scoop 30 capable of transferring the game media stored in the ball storage section 21 to a flow-down field 22 by a rotation operation (half rotation operation) of a rotation plate 31. This makes it possible to change the number of game media transferred from the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 depending on the timing at which the rotation operation (half rotation operation) of the rotation plate 31 is executed, thereby increasing game properties.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a game device that provides games using game media.

Conventionally, a game device that provides a game using a game medium is known (see Patent Document 1). In this game device, when the insertion of a medal into a medal insertion port is detected, a hopper releases the medal from a release port onto the board. When the medal released onto the board passes through a chucker section, a game is executed, and a number of medals according to the result of the game are paid out onto the game field. Furthermore, the medals paid out onto the game field fall from the game field due to the reciprocating movement of a pusher plate, and are paid out from a payout port.

JP 2004-105389 A

However, in conventional gaming devices, the number of medals inserted by a player and the number of medals released onto the board match, which may make it difficult to improve the entertainment value of the game.
An object of the present invention is to improve game playability.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the game device of the first invention is characterized in that it comprises a storage means for storing game media, a rotation means for rotating the storage means, a flow-down area through which the game media flows down, a transfer means capable of transferring the game media stored in the storage means to the flow-down area by the rotational action of a rotating member, a specific area through which the game media flowing down the flow-down area can pass, and a processing means for executing processing according to the type of the specific area through which the passage of the game media is detected.
The game device according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a rotating means for rotating a storage means for storing game media, and a transporting means for transporting the game media stored in the storage means to the flow-down area by the rotational movement of the rotating member. This makes it possible to change the number of game media transported from the storage means to the flow-down area depending on the timing at which the rotational movement of the rotating member is performed, thereby improving the playability of the game.
Here, the game medium corresponds, for example, to a small ball B1 and a large ball B2 described later. The storage means corresponds, for example, to a ball storage section 21 described later. The rotation means corresponds, for example, to a rotation unit motor 100 described later. The flow-down area corresponds, for example, to a flow-down field 22 described later. The rotating member corresponds, for example, to a rotating plate 31 described later. The rotation action corresponds, for example, to a half-rotation action described later. The transport means corresponds, for example, to a rotating scoop 30 described later. The specific area corresponds, for example, to a small pocket P1 and a large pocket P2 described later. The processing means corresponds, for example, to a processing section 210 described later.

The game device according to the second invention is characterized in that, in the game device according to the first invention, the number of times that the passage of a gaming medium is detected is accumulated for each type of specific area, and when the accumulated number for any type of specific area reaches a predetermined number, a bonus process is executed.
In the game device of the second invention, it is possible to progress the game so that the game medium passes continuously through any type of specific area selected by the player, thereby further improving the playability of the game.
Here, the types of specific areas include, for example, a yellow small pocket P1a, a red small pocket P1b, a green small pocket P1c, and a blue small pocket P1d, which will be described later. The bonus process includes, for example, a process of paying out a ticket, which will be described later.

A game device according to a third invention is characterized in that, in the game device according to the first or second invention, the types of game media include a first game medium and a second game medium, the types of specific areas include a first specific area corresponding to the first game medium and a second specific area corresponding to the second game medium, and a process that is more advantageous to the player is executed when the passage of the second game medium through the second specific area is detected than when the passage of the first game medium through the first specific area is detected.
In the game device according to the third invention, the player can progress through the game by aiming to pass the second game medium through the second specific area, which can further improve the playability of the game.
Here, the first game medium corresponds to, for example, a small ball B1, which will be described later. The second game medium corresponds to, for example, a large ball B2, which will be described later. The first specific area corresponds to, for example, a small pocket P1, which will be described later. The second specific area corresponds to, for example, a large pocket P2, which will be described later.

A game device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the game device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, when a predetermined condition is satisfied while a first state is being set, a second state which is more advantageous to the player than the first state is set.
In the game device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to set a plurality of states each having a different degree of advantage to the player, which makes it possible to further improve the entertainment value of the game.
Here, the first state corresponds to, for example, a normal state, which will be described later, and the second state corresponds to, for example, a special state, which will be described later.

A game device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the game device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, characterized in that the rotation action is executed in response to an operation of an operating means by a player.
In the game device according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the player can execute the rotation action of the rotating member at any timing of his/her choice, which can further improve the entertainment value of the game.
Here, the operation means corresponds to, for example, an operation button 40 described later.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is the game device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, characterized in that an obstacle is provided in the flow-down area.
In the gaming device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to make it difficult for the gaming medium to pass through a specific area, which makes it possible to further improve the entertainment value of the game.
Here, the obstacle corresponds to, for example, a track changing member, which will be described later.

The present invention makes it possible to improve gameplay.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the game device 1. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the game device 1. FIG. 2 is a plan view of station ST. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a station ST. FIG. 13 is a plan view of large pocket P2. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of large pocket P2. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of the game device 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a performance image displayed on a display device 50.

Hereinafter, a game device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The game device 1 is a device that allows a player (user) to play (execute) a game in which the player (user) can win a prize (in this embodiment, a prize ticket) by passing a game medium through a specific area.
The game device 1 uses balls (spheres) as game media. In particular, in this embodiment, a plurality of types of balls with different sizes (outer diameters) are used as game media. Specifically, a small ball B1 and a large ball B2 with a larger diameter than the small ball B1 are used as game media.
Furthermore, in the game device 1, a plurality of types of specific areas are provided, and a process is executed according to the type of specific area through which the passage of the game medium is detected. In this embodiment, a small pocket P1 corresponding to the small ball B1 and a large pocket P2 corresponding to the large ball B2 are provided as specific areas. Then, a process that is more advantageous to the player is executed when the passage of the large ball B2 through the large pocket P2 is detected than when the passage of the small ball B1 through the small pocket P1 is detected.
The configuration of the game device 1 will now be described in detail.

(Configuration of game device 1)
Fig. 1 is a side view of the game device 1. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the game device 1. Fig. 3 is a plan view of a station ST. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the station ST. Fig. 5 is a plan view of a large pocket P2. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a large pocket P2. Fig. 6(a) shows the large pocket P2 in a normal state, and Fig. 6(b) shows the large pocket P2 in an advantageous state.
1 and 2, the game device 1 includes a housing 10 and a rotation unit 20 supported by the housing 10. In the game device 1, a plurality of stations ST (four in this embodiment) are configured around the rotation unit 20. Note that only one station ST out of the four stations ST is illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, and the other stations ST are not illustrated.
The housing 10 includes a base 11 formed in a box shape, and a transparent case (not shown) disposed above the base 11. The transparent case is made of resin (acrylic or the like), glass, or the like.
The rotation unit 20 is a device commonly used by all stations ST. The rotation unit 20 is disposed inside a transparent case. The rotation unit 20 is supported by a base 11. The rotation unit 20 is formed in a disk shape when viewed from above. A center rotation shaft (not shown) extending in the up-down direction is provided at the center of the rotation unit 20. The rotation unit 20 can be rotated relative to the base 11 around the center rotation shaft by a rotation unit motor (stepping motor) 100 (see FIG. 7).
The rotation unit 20 includes a ball storage section 21 formed on the inner circumference side and a flow-down field 22 formed on the outer circumference side. In this embodiment, the ball storage section 21 and the flow-down field 22 are integrally formed. As a result, the ball storage section 21 and the flow-down field 22 rotate as a unit.

The ball storage section 21 is formed on the upper surface of the rotation unit 20. When viewed from above, the ball storage section 21 is formed in an annular shape centered on the central rotation axis. The ball storage section 21 is formed in a gutter shape, and is capable of storing a large number (multiple) of game media (small balls B1 and large balls B2).
The flow-down field 22 is formed on the upper surface of the rotation unit 20. When viewed from above, the flow-down field 22 is formed in an annular shape around the central rotation axis so as to surround the ball storage section 21. The flow-down field 22 is an inclined plane so that the center side (center rotation axis side) is higher and the outside is lower. As a result, the game media that have fallen onto the flow-down field 22 flow down (roll) on the flow-down field 22 from the center side to the outside. The flow-down field 22 is provided with a plurality of trajectory change members (not shown). Each trajectory change member becomes an obstacle for the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22. In other words, each trajectory change member interferes with the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22 and changes the trajectory of the game media.
A plurality of small pockets P1 are provided in the flow-down field 22. The plurality of small pockets P1 are provided at the outer end of the flow-down field 22 so as to surround the ball storage section 21. In this case, the plurality of small pockets P1 are provided at predetermined angular intervals along the circumferential direction of the flow-down field 22. Each small pocket P1 is a through hole that allows the small ball B1 to pass through. Note that each small pocket P1 does not allow the large ball B2 to pass through.
In this embodiment, a plurality of types of small pockets P1 are provided in the flow-down field 22. Specifically, four types of small pockets P1 (yellow small pocket P1a, red small pocket P1b, green small pocket P1c, and blue small pocket P1d) are provided in the flow-down field 22. In particular, five of each type of small pocket P1a, P1b, P1c, and P1d are provided in the flow-down field 22.

Each station ST is a device for players to play the game. At each station ST, one or two players can play the game. As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, each station ST includes a rotating scoop 30, a large pocket P2, a small ball recovery hole (not shown), an operation button 40, a display device 50, a speaker 60 (see Fig. 7), a medal insertion section 150 (see Fig. 7), and a ticket dispensing device 160 (see Fig. 7).
The rotating scoop 30 is disposed inside the transparent case. The rotating scoop 30 is attached to the base 11. Since the rotating scoop 30 is attached to the base 11, it does not rotate with the rotation of the rotation unit 20. The rotating scoop 30 includes a rotating plate 31 and a rotating shaft sh attached to the rotating plate 31. The rotating plate 31 is a substantially rectangular flat plate. The rotating shaft sh is disposed so as to extend along the short side direction of the rotating plate 31 at the center of the long side direction of the rotating plate 31. The rotating shaft sh is supported horizontally by the base 11. The rotating plate 31 can be rotated relative to the base 11 around the rotating shaft sh. The rotating plate 31 is rotated by a scoop motor (stepping motor) 110 (see FIG. 7). The rotating scoop 30 can transfer the game media stored in the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 by the rotation of the rotating member 31.

Specifically, the rotation axis sh is arranged to extend along a direction perpendicular to the radial direction of the rotation unit 20 (ball storage section 21). In the rotating scoop 30, when the half-rotation operation by the rotation plate 31 is not being performed, the rotation plate 31 is arranged in the initial state. The rotation plate 31 in the initial state is arranged so that its long side extends along the radial direction of the rotation unit 20 (ball storage section 21), and its upper surface is inclined so that the center side (center rotation axis side) is high and the outside is low. Then, in each station ST, when credits are accumulated, the half-rotation operation by the rotation plate 31 is performed every time the operation button 40 is operated. The half-rotation operation is an operation in which the rotation plate 31 rotates half a turn (180°) around the rotation axis sh. That is, the front and back sides of the rotation plate 31 are reversed every time the half-rotation operation is performed. As a result, when the half-rotation operation is performed on the rotation plate 31 arranged in the initial state, it is reversed and returns to the initial state again.
As shown in FIG. 4, the cross section (cross section cut along the radial direction) of the inner peripheral surface of the ball storage section 21 is in the shape of a circular arc. When the rotating plate 31 rotates, each end (each short side) in the longitudinal direction of the rotating plate 31 draws a trajectory Tr along the inner peripheral surface (cross section cut along the radial direction) of the ball storage section 21. As a result, when the rotating plate 31 executes a half-rotation operation, it becomes possible to scoop up the game media stored in the ball storage section 21 that are below the rotating plate 31 onto the upper surface of the rotating plate 31. Then, the game media scooped up onto the upper surface of the rotating plate 31 flow down (roll) from the center side to the outside on the upper surface of the rotating plate 31 that is arranged in the initial state, and fall into the flow-down field 22.
As described above, the rotating scoop 30 is capable of transporting the gaming media stored in the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 by the half-rotation movement of the rotating plate 31.

The large pocket P2 is disposed inside a transparent case. The large pocket P2 is attached to a base 11. In this embodiment, one large pocket P2 is disposed in each station ST. The large pocket P2 is disposed at a position radially outward of the rotation unit 20 (flow field 22). The large pocket P2 allows the large ball B2 to pass through.
Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the large pocket P2 includes an outer ring r1 and an inner ring r2 disposed inside the outer ring r1. The outer ring r1 and the inner ring r2 are each formed in an annular shape. The inner diameter of the inner ring r2 is larger than the diameter of the large ball B2. The inner diameter of the outer ring r1 is larger than the inner diameter of the inner ring r2. In particular, the inner diameter of the outer ring r1 is larger than the outer diameter of the inner ring r2.
In the large pocket P2, the inner ring r2 can be displaced in the vertical direction by a pocket motor (stepping motor) 120 (see FIG. 7). That is, in the large pocket P2, the position of the inner ring r2 relative to the outer ring r1 can be changed in the vertical direction. This allows the large pocket P2 to change (displace) between a normal state (see FIG. 6(a)) and an advantageous state (see FIG. 6(b)).

As shown in FIG. 6( a ), in the large pocket P2 in the normal state, the inner ring r2 is disposed in an elevated position. The elevated position is a position higher than the outer ring r1. As a result, in the large pocket P2 in the normal state, the inner diameter of the entrance of the large pocket P2 becomes the inner diameter of the inner ring r2. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6 ( b ), in the large pocket P2 in the advantageous state, the inner ring r2 is disposed in a descended position. The descended position is a position lower than the outer ring r1. As a result, in the large pocket P2 in the advantageous state, the inner diameter of the entrance of the large pocket P2 becomes the inner diameter of the outer ring r1. As a result, the inner diameter of the entrance of the large pocket P2 in the advantageous state is larger than that of the large pocket P2 in the normal state, making it easier for the big ball B2 to enter the large pocket P2, which is advantageous for the player.
A large ball detection sensor 130 (see FIG. 7) is disposed at each station ST. The large ball detection sensor 130 is disposed inside the base 11. The large ball detection sensor 130 transmits a predetermined detection signal to the control device 200 in response to detection of the large ball B2 passing through the large pocket P2 (detection of the passage of the large ball B2 through the large pocket P2). The large ball detection sensor 130 is configured not to detect the small ball B1 passing through the large pocket P2 (passage of the small ball B1 through the large pocket P2). As a result, even if the small ball B1 passes through the large pocket P2, the small ball B1 is not detected by the large ball detection sensor 130. The game media that pass through the large pocket P2 are collected inside the base 11. The large ball detection sensor 130 can be realized by a displacement sensor, a length measurement sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like.

The small ball recovery hole is provided on the top surface of the base 11. The small ball recovery hole is arranged on the underside of the flow-down field 22. In this embodiment, one small ball recovery hole is provided in each station ST. Then, the small balls B1 that have entered all of the small pockets P1 are recovered into the base 11 via the small ball recovery hole.
That is, during the game, the rotating unit 20 rotates at a predetermined speed relative to the base 11. When the small pocket P1 is not located above the small ball recovery hole, the bottom surface of each small pocket P1 is blocked by the top surface of the base 11. As a result, the small ball B1 that has entered each small pocket P1 is moved while being held by the small pocket P1 as the rotating unit 20 rotates. Then, each small pocket P1 communicates with the small ball recovery hole at the timing when the small pocket P1 is located above the small ball recovery hole due to the rotation of the rotating unit 20. As a result, the small ball B1 that has entered each small pocket P1 passes through the small pocket P1 and enters the small ball recovery hole at the timing when the small pocket P1 is located above the small ball recovery hole.
A partition plate 23 is disposed above the flow field 22, partitioning the areas of the flow field 22 corresponding to each station ST. When the small pocket P1 passes under the partition plate 23, the large ball B2 that enters each small pocket P1 is pushed out by the partition plate 23, drops from the outer end of the flow field 22, and is collected inside the base 11.
A small ball detection sensor 140 (see FIG. 7) is disposed at each station ST. The small ball detection sensor 140 is disposed inside the base 11. The small ball detection sensor 140 transmits a predetermined detection signal to the control device 200 in response to detection of the small ball B1 passing through the small ball recovery hole (detection of the small ball B1 passing through the small ball recovery hole). The small ball detection sensor 140 can be realized by a displacement sensor, a length measurement sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like. Then, the control device 200 acquires the rotation angle of the rotation unit 20 at the timing when the detection signal from the small ball detection sensor 140 is input, and determines the type of the small pocket P1 through which the small ball B1 has passed (any of the yellow small pocket P1a, the red small pocket P1b, the green small pocket P1c, and the blue small pocket P1d) in response to the acquired rotation angle, and executes a process in response to the determined type of the small pocket P1. This makes it possible to perform processing according to the type of small pocket P1 through which the small ball B1 has passed, without having to provide a small ball detection sensor 140 corresponding to each type of small pocket P1, thereby making it possible to suppress an increase in the number of parts.

The operation button 40 is disposed outside the transparent case. The operation button 40 is attached to the side surface of the base 11. The operation button 40 includes a pressing operation unit that can be pressed by a player. The operation button 40 outputs a predetermined detection signal to the control device 200 in response to a pressing operation of the pressing operation unit.
The display device 50 is disposed inside a transparent case. The display device 50 is attached to a base 11. The display device 50 is capable of displaying various performance images. The display on the display device 50 is controlled by a processing unit 210 (see FIG. 7). The display device 50 can be realized by an LCD, an organic EL display, a CRT, or the like.
The speaker 60 is disposed outside the transparent case. The speaker 60 is attached to the base 11. The sound output from the speaker 60 is controlled by the processing unit 210.
The medal insertion unit 150 is disposed outside the transparent case. The medal insertion unit 150 is provided on the side of the base 11. A player can insert a medal into the medal insertion unit 150. In response to detecting the insertion of a medal, the medal insertion unit 150 outputs a predetermined detection signal to the control device 200. The medal insertion unit 150 can be realized by a coin selector or the like.
The ticket dispensing device 160 is disposed outside the transparent case. The ticket dispensing device 160 is provided on a side surface of the base 11. The ticket dispensing device 160 dispenses tickets to players. The dispensing of tickets by the ticket dispensing device 160 is controlled by the processing unit 210.

(Control system configuration)
Next, the configuration of the control system of the game device 1 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of the game device 1.
The game device 1 includes a control device 200. The control device 200 is disposed inside the base 11.
As shown in FIG. 7, the control device 200 includes a processing unit 210 , a storage unit 220 , and a storage medium 230 .
The storage unit 220 serves as a work area for the processing unit 210. In particular, the storage unit 220 stores various parameters necessary for the progress of the game, such as a point counter, a timer counter, etc. The storage unit 220 can be realized by a semiconductor memory, a HDD, an SSD, an optical disk device, or the like.
The storage medium 230 stores programs, data, and the like. In particular, the storage medium 230 stores various programs and various data required for the progress of the game. The processing unit 210 executes various processes based on the programs and data stored in the storage medium 230. The storage medium 230 can be realized by an optical disk, a HDD, a semiconductor memory, or the like.
The processing unit 210 executes various processes required for the progress of the game based on the detection signal input from the medal insertion unit 150, the detection signal input from the operation button 40, the detection signal input from the large ball detection sensor 130, the detection signal input from the small ball detection sensor 140, the programs and data stored in the storage medium 230, etc.
In addition, the processing unit 210 controls the driving of the scoop motor 110, the driving of the pocket motor 120, the display of presentation images by the display device 50, the output of sound by the speaker 50, the dispensing of tickets by the ticket dispensing device 160, etc. depending on the progress of the game.

(Game Progression)
Next, the progress of the game executed by the processing unit 210 will be described.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a performance image displayed on the display device 50. As shown in FIG.
In the game device 1, a large number of small balls B1 and a large number of large balls B2 are stored in advance in the ball storage section 21. In addition, in the game device 1, a normal state is set as the game state in each station ST in response to power-on. Furthermore, in the game device 1, the rotation unit 20 is constantly rotated at a predetermined speed while the power is on.
At each station ST, a player can accumulate credits by inserting medals into the medal insertion section 150. Then, a player can play a game by consuming credits.

Specifically, in each station ST, a credit counter, a normal point counter, and a special point counter are configured in the memory unit 220. In addition, as the normal point counters, normal point counters corresponding to each type of small pocket P1 (yellow small pocket P1, red small pocket P1, green small pocket P1, and blue small pocket P1) are configured.
At each station ST, a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1") is added to the credit counter each time a medal is inserted into the medal insertion section 150. Furthermore, when operation of the operation button 40 is detected while the value of the credit counter is equal to or greater than the predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1"), a half-rotation operation is performed by the rotating plate 31 in response, and a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1") is subtracted from the credit counter.
At each station ST, the game media (small ball B1 and large ball B2) stored in the ball storage section 21 can be transferred to the flow-down field 22 by the half-rotation operation of the rotating plate 31. In particular, during the game, the rotating unit 20 (ball storage section 21) is rotated at a predetermined speed. This allows the player to transfer more game media to the flow-down field 22 by operating the operation button 40 (performing a half-rotation operation by the rotating plate 31) aiming at the timing when more game media are placed under the rotating plate 31. In addition, the player can transfer the large ball B2 to the flow-down field 22 by operating the operation button 40 (performing a half-rotation operation by the rotating plate 31) aiming at the timing when the large ball B2 is placed under the rotating plate 31.

The game medium transferred to the flow field 22 flows (rolls) outward on the flow field 22. Then, during the normal state, when the passage of a small pocket P1 by a small ball B1 flowing down the flow field 22 is detected, a predetermined number of tickets are paid out and a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1") is added to the normal point counter. At this time, a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1") is added to the normal point counter corresponding to the type of small pocket P1 through which the passage of the small ball B1 was detected. This causes the number of times the passage of the small ball B1 was detected to be accumulated for each type of small pocket P1. Here, as shown in FIG. 8, during the game, normal point information indicating the value of the normal point counter corresponding to each type of small pocket P1 is displayed on the display device 50. Specifically, normal point information x1 showing the value of the normal point counter corresponding to the yellow small pocket P1, normal point information x2 showing the value of the normal point counter corresponding to the red small pocket P1, normal point information x3 showing the value of the normal point counter corresponding to the green small pocket P1, and normal point information x4 showing the value of the normal point counter corresponding to the blue small pocket P1 are displayed.

When the value of the normal point counter corresponding to any type of small pocket P1 reaches a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "5") while the normal state is set, a predetermined number of tickets are paid out and a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "1") is added to the special point counter, and then the value of the normal point counter is reset to "0". During the game, special point information y indicating the value of the special point counter is displayed on the display device 50. Then, when the value of the special point counter reaches a predetermined value (in this embodiment, "5"), a predetermined number of tickets are paid out and the game state is set to a special state instead of the normal state, and then the value of the special point counter is reset to "0".
Furthermore, when the normal state is set, when the passage of the large ball B2 flowing down the flow field 22 through the large pocket P2 is detected, a predetermined number of tickets are paid out and the game state is set to a special state instead of the normal state, and then the value of the special point counter is reset to "0".

The special state ends when a predetermined time (60 s in this embodiment) has elapsed since the start of the special state. Then, when the special state ends, the normal state is set again. While the special state is set, when it is detected that the small ball B1 flowing down the flow field 22 has passed through the small pocket P1, a predetermined number of tickets are paid out. At this time, no increment is made to the normal point counter. Also, while the special state is set, when it is detected that the large ball B2 flowing down the flow field 22 has passed through the large pocket P2, a predetermined number of tickets are paid out.
In particular, when the special state is set, it is more advantageous for the player than when the normal state is set. Specifically, when the normal state is set, the large pocket P2 is placed in the normal state. On the other hand, when the special state is set, the large pocket P2 is placed in an advantageous state. This makes it easier to cause the large ball B2 to pass through the large pocket P2 when the special state is set than when the normal state is set. Also, when the special state is set, more tickets are paid out when the small ball B1 passes through the small pocket P1, and more tickets are paid out when the large ball B2 passes through the large pocket P2, compared to when the normal state is set.
As a result, while the special state is set, it becomes easier to obtain tickets compared to when the normal state is set, and it is possible to stimulate the player's gambling spirit. In particular, while the special state is set, the player can operate the operation button 40 continuously, aiming to make the big ball B2 pass through the large pocket P2, and thus it is possible to consume credits continuously. At this time, each half-rotation operation is completed in a relatively short time at each station ST, so that it is possible to execute a larger number of half-rotation operations during the setting of the specific state, which is a limited time.

Here, regardless of the game state, the number of tickets paid out when the passage of the large ball B2 through the large pocket P2 is detected is greater than the number of tickets paid out when the passage of the small ball B1 through the small pocket P1 is detected. This makes it more advantageous for the player to have the large ball B2 pass through the large pocket P2 than to have the small ball B1 pass through the small pocket P1.
Among the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22, those that do not pass through the specific area fall from the outer end of the flow-down field 22 and are collected inside the base 11. Among the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22, those that pass through the large pocket P2 are collected inside the base 11. Furthermore, among the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22, the small balls B1 that pass through each small pocket P1 are collected inside the base 11 through the small ball collection holes. Then, the game media collected inside the base 11 are returned to the ball storage section 21 by a circulation mechanism not shown. Note that, as the circulation mechanism, a first circulation mechanism that returns the small balls B1 collected inside the base 11 to the ball storage section 21 and a second circulation mechanism that returns the large balls B2 collected inside the base 11 to the ball storage section 21 may be provided separately. Alternatively, a single circulation mechanism may be used to return both the small balls B1 collected inside the base 11 and the large balls B2 collected inside the base 11 to the ball storage section 21.

As described above, in the game device 1, it is possible to obtain tickets by passing the game medium through a specific area. In particular, it is possible to obtain more tickets by causing the large ball B2 to pass through the large pocket P2. As a result, when the normal state is set, the game progresses with the aim of causing the small ball B1 to pass through the small pocket P1, aiming to transition to a special state in which it is easier for the large ball B2 to pass through the large pocket P2. Then, when the specific state is set, the game progresses with the aim of causing as many large balls B2 to pass through the large pocket P2 as possible.
In the facility where the game device 1 is installed, the tickets can be exchanged for prizes, and the player can exchange the tickets for various prizes according to the number of tickets he or she has acquired.

(Function of Game Device 1)
The game device 1 is equipped with a ball storage section 21 that stores game media (small balls B1 and large balls B2), a rotation unit motor 100 that rotates the ball storage section 21, a flow-down field 22 through which the game media flow down, a rotating scoop 30 that can transfer the game media stored in the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 by the rotational movement (half-rotation movement) of a rotating plate 31, specific areas (small pocket P1 and large pocket P2) through which the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22 can pass, and a processing section 210 that executes processing according to the type of specific area through which the passage of the game media is detected.
That is, the game device 1 includes a rotation unit motor 100 that rotates the ball storage section 21 that stores the game media, and a rotating scoop 30 that can transfer the game media stored in the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 by the rotation operation (half rotation operation) of the rotating plate 31. This makes it possible to change the number of game media transferred from the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22 depending on the timing at which the rotation operation (half rotation operation) of the rotating plate 31 is performed, thereby improving the game playability. That is, depending on the timing at which the rotation operation (half rotation operation) of the rotating plate 31 is performed, there are cases where the rotating plate 31 cannot scoop up any game media, cases where the rotating plate 31 can scoop up multiple small balls B1, and cases where the rotating plate 31 can scoop up multiple large balls B2, and it is possible to change the number of game media transferred from the ball storage section 21 to the flow-down field 22.

In addition, in the game device 1, the number of times the small ball B1 is detected passing through each type of small pocket P1 is accumulated, and when the accumulated number of times for any type of small pocket P1 reaches a predetermined number ("5" in this embodiment), a bonus process (payout of a ticket and increment of a special point counter in this embodiment) is executed. This makes it possible to progress the game so that the small ball B1 passes through any type of small pocket P1 selected by the player continuously, further improving the playability of the game.
In addition, in the game device 1, the types of game media include a small ball B1 and a large ball B2. The types of specific areas include a small pocket P1 corresponding to the small ball B1 and a large pocket P2 corresponding to the large ball B2. When the passage of the large ball B2 through the large pocket P2 is detected, a process that is more advantageous to the player is executed than when the passage of the small ball B1 through the small pocket P1 is detected. This allows the player to progress through the game by aiming for the passage of the large ball B2 through the large pocket P2, thereby further improving the appeal of the game.

Furthermore, in the game device 1, when a predetermined condition is met during the normal state (when the value of the special point counter reaches a predetermined value, or when the passage of the large pocket P2 by the large ball B2 flowing down the flow field 22 is detected), a special state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is set. This makes it possible to set multiple game states with different degrees of advantage to the player, thereby further improving the playability of the game.
Furthermore, in the game device 1, a rotational motion (half-rotation motion) of the rotating plate 31 is executed in response to the operation of the operating means by the player. This allows the player to execute the rotational motion (half-rotation motion) of the rotating plate 31 at any timing of their choice, further improving the playability of the game.
Furthermore, in the game device 1, a trajectory changing member is provided in the flow field 22. This makes it difficult for the game medium to pass through a specific area, and makes it possible to further improve the entertainment value of the game.

(Modification)
Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, various modifications can be made to the above embodiment.
For example, in the above embodiment, the number of big balls B2 circulating in the game device 1 may be increased when the special state is set, compared to when the normal state is set. That is, the number of big balls B2 stored in the ball storage section 21 may be increased when the special state is set, compared to when the normal state is set. With this configuration, it is possible to transport more big balls B2 to the flow-down field 22 when the special state is set, compared to when the normal state is set, and it is possible to make it easier for the big balls B2 to pass through the large pocket P2, which is advantageous for the player.

In the above embodiment, a predetermined lottery process (hereinafter, "small ball lottery process") may be executed when the passage of the small ball B1 through the small pocket P1 is detected. The small ball lottery process may select a value to be added to the normal point counter corresponding to the type of small pocket P1 through which the passage of the small ball B1 is detected. Alternatively, the small ball lottery process may select the number of tickets to be paid out.
In the above embodiment, a predetermined lottery process (hereinafter, referred to as "big ball lottery process") may be executed when the passage of the big ball B2 through the large pocket P2 is detected. The type of the award to be given may be selected by the big ball lottery process. That is, a normal bonus and a jackpot bonus are set as types of awards to be given in response to the passage of the big ball B2 through the large pocket P2. When the passage of the big ball B2 through the large pocket P2 is detected, a type of bonus to be given to the player is selected from the normal bonus and the jackpot bonus. When the jackpot bonus is selected, a larger number of tickets are paid out than when the normal bonus is selected. In this case, the number of tickets paid out when the jackpot bonus is selected may be fixed to a predetermined number or may increase each time credits are consumed at each station ST.
In the above embodiment, the big ball B2 that has passed through the large pocket P2 may be sent to a predetermined lottery mechanism. For example, the lottery mechanism may include a swinging section in which the big ball B2 swings (rolls) and a plurality of types of lottery pockets into which the big ball B2 swinging in the swinging section can land. The type of bonus (normal bonus or jackpot bonus) to be awarded may be selected depending on the type of lottery pocket into which the big ball B2 has landed.
In the above embodiment, a predetermined lottery process (hereinafter, referred to as "JP lottery process") may be executed when the value of the special point counter reaches a predetermined value. The type of bonus to be awarded (normal bonus or jackpot bonus) may be selected by the JP lottery process.

In the above embodiment, medals may be used as the game medium. For example, medals may be used instead of the small ball B1. That is, medals and large balls B2 may be used as the game medium. In such a configuration, the small pocket P1 is configured to allow the passage of medals. Also, when the passage of a game medium (medal/large ball B2) through a specific area (small pocket P1/large pocket P2) is detected, medals are paid out instead of tickets. Also, each station ST is configured to have a table and a pusher on the downstream side of the flow-down field 22. That is, among the game media flowing down the flow-down field 22, medals that do not pass through the small pocket P1 fall onto the top surface of the table from the outer end of the flow-down field 22. Also, the pusher is configured to move back and forth above the table, and the medals that fall onto the table are pushed out by the pusher and can be dropped from the end of the table. Any medals that fall off the edge of the table will also be paid out to the player.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the rotating plate 31 may be configured to perform a half rotation operation in response to detection of insertion of a medal into the medal insertion section 150.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Game device 10 Housing 20 Rotation unit 21 Ball storage section 22 Flow field 30 Rotation scoop 31 Rotation plate 40 Operation button 50 Display device 100 Rotation unit motor 110 Scoop motor 130 Large ball detection sensor 140 Small ball detection sensor B1 Small ball B2 Large ball P1 Small pocket P2 Large pocket

Claims (6)

A storage means for storing game media;
A rotating means for rotating the storage means;
a flow-down area through which the game media flows;
a transfer means for transferring the game media stored in the storage means to the flow-down area by a rotational operation of a rotating member;
A specific area through which the game media flowing down the flow area can pass;
A game device comprising: a processing means for executing a process according to the type of the specific area through which the passage of the game medium is detected. The number of times the passage of the gaming medium is detected is accumulated for each type of specific area;
2. The game device according to claim 1, wherein a bonus process is executed when the accumulated number of times for any one of the types of the specific areas reaches a predetermined number of times. The types of game media include a first game medium and a second game medium,
The types of the specific area include a first specific area corresponding to the first game medium and a second specific area corresponding to the second game medium,
A game device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a process that is more advantageous to the player is executed when the passage of the second game medium through the second specific area is detected than when the passage of the first game medium through the first specific area is detected. The game device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, when a predetermined condition is met while a first state is being set, a second state that is more advantageous to the player than the first state is set. The game device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the rotation action is performed in response to the operation of an operating means by a player. The game device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an obstacle is provided in the flow-down area.

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