Abstract: A pinball machine has been designed with several novel mechanical and electrical features such that it is easily retrofittable or convertible between a first pinball game and a second pinball game. The pinball machine includes a cabinet, a playfield mounted to the cabinet, and a backbox extending upwardly from a rear portion of the cabinet. To facilitate modification of electronics controlling the operation of the pinball machine, a controller box assembly is installed in the backbox. The controller box assembly comprises a rail structure mounted within the backbox and a controller box movably mounted relative to the rail structure to open and close the controller box. The controller box containing the electronics may be pivoted downwardly while remaining in engagement with the rail structure to provide easy access into the controller box.

Abstract: A pinball machine has been designed with several novel mechanical and electrical features such that it is easily retrofittable or convertible between a first pinball game and a second pinball game. One of these features is a novel playfield assembly for the pinball machine. For ease of movement of the playfield into and from a cabinet of the pinball machine, the playfield has skid rails which extend substantially along the length of the playfield. The skid rails are spaced from the lower side of the playfield by a distance that is greater than the distance by which components protrude from the lower side of the playfield. Thus, the playfield can be placed on the ground without any chance for damage of its components. The playfield may also include a slide stop at one or both of its ends. The slide stops engage the front molding of the cabinet to ensure the playfield does not fall into the cabinet or fall from the cabinet as the skid rails are being slid across the front molding.

Abstract: An amusement game includes a number of elements in a cabinet defining pinball play, including a playfield and flippers for propelling a ball onto the playfield. At least one control device operates the flippers and other features of the amusement game. The control device is manually engageable in at least two different fashions for producing at least two types of control signals. One of these types of control signals is for controlling the flippers and another of these types of control signals is for controlling other features of the amusement game.

Abstract: An illuminable ramp assembly for a pinball game having a playfield supporting a rolling ball thereon comprises an elongated molded plastic housing and a ball ramp extending alongside the housing. The housing encloses a power supply, a gas tube, protective end caps, and cushioning supports. The gas tube is powered by the power supply. To effectively suspend the gas tube within the housing and, at the same time, provide the gas tube with shock resistance, the protective end caps are mounted over opposing ends of the gas tube, and the cushioning supports are intermittently located along the length of the gas tube. The cushioning supports partially encompass the gas tube and are interposed between the gas tube and the housing. The ball ramp includes an entry end and an exit end. A switch capable of detecting the presence of the rolling ball is preferably located near the entry end of the ball ramp.

Abstract: A serpentine ramp is rotatable about a horizontal axis between its center and its upper end to lift a pinball from a lower play surface to an upper play surface. A ball is directed from the lower surface into a ball receiving portion in the lower end of the ramp. This closes an optical switch causing the ramp to rotate between a receiving position and a discharge position. A ball disposed in the receiving portion rolls on the ramp to its upper end and then onto the upper surface. A second optical switch is closed by the return of the ramp to the receiving position which terminates the operation of the device.

Abstract: A drop target for a pinball game includes a movable target element operably connected to a target driver. The target driver is controllably movable in response to energizing pulses from a game controller. A releasable latching mechanism moves in cooperation with the target driver and, when attached to the target element, communicates movement from the target driver to the target element so as to move the latter between a raised and lowered position. The target driver in one embodiment comprises a single solenoid including a coil and a plunger concentric with the coil. The plunger and target element move to a raised position in response to the game controller applying an initial energizing pulse to the coil. Thereafter, the game controller maintains the target in its raised position by applying a variable pattern of energizing pulses to the coil.

Abstract: A pinball machine which can be electrically linked to other pinball machines to allow the machines to communicate. Features on the pinball machines are synchronized to make gameplay more attractive to players. Cooperative or competitive gameplay can be provided between the pinball machines, but achievement of goals on the two machines is synchronized to maintain similar gameplay on both machines at any particular time.

Abstract: A wrecking ball play feature for a pinball game includes a crane disposed upon the playfield of the pinball game. A wrecking ball is suspended from the crane by a cable so that it may be impacted by a game ball rolling upon the playfield. After being struck by the game ball, the wrecking ball swings in a pendulum-like fashion so as to strike targets near the crane, thus increasing the player's score. Alternatively, the wrecking ball may block a passage, the access of which by the game ball increases the player's score. The wrecking ball may be raised or lowered so that the pinball game features two or more modes of play. In one embodiment, the wrecking ball is raised and lowered by pivoting the crane arm about a pivot connection with the crane tower by way of a solenoid connected between the crane arm and the playfield. In another embodiment, the wrecking ball is raised by retracting the cable into the crane arm by way of tilting a crank to which the cable is connected.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a position controller and a movable feature on the pinball machine. The position controller comprises a servomotor connected in operative relation to a shaft. The movable features connect to the shaft and are movable between several positions by the shaft. Circuitry is provided to produce a signal to command movement of the feature to one of the positions in a manner responsive to an event taking place in the pinball machine. Electronic circuitry causes the servomotor to move the shaft to a specific position in response to the signal, without the need for mechanical switches. Specifically, a plate-like, movable obscurer for the flippers is disclosed as the movable feature, although other types of movable features are discussed.

Abstract: An interactive play feature for a pinball game includes a shooting position on an inclined playfield and a target spaced apart from the shooting position. A shooting mechanism is responsive to input from a player for propelling a game ball from the shooting position toward the target. The game ball normally follows a path of travel from the shooting position to the target when propelled by the shooting mechanism. A blocking member is movable to a blocking position in response to the game ball reaching a desired position, wherein the blocking member obstructs the path of travel of the game ball to prevent the game ball from reaching the target.

Abstract: Game apparatus (10) comprising a body (11) which has a perforated playing surface (13) and a border (14) upstanding from and extending around the playing surface (13), said border (14) having two opposite openings (15). Two flippers (16) are provided on opposite sides of each opening (15), which are pivotable by an operating mechanism (17). A motor-driven fan unit is provided under the playing surface (13) for driving air through the perforated playing surface (13) in order to create an air cushion thereon. A disc (19) is to be placed on the playing surface (13), while the fan unit is in action, for the flippers (16) at one opening (15) to strike to move into the other opening (15) and for flippers (16) at the other opening (15) to block against entry.

Abstract: An apparatus provides interlevel play for a pinball game having an inclined playfield. The apparatus includes an elevated surface mounted above the playfield for supporting a rolling ball thereon. The elevated surface has an aperture therein for receiving the rolling ball therethrough, and a trap door is movable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the trap door extends substantially the length of the aperture to support the rolling ball thereon. In the open position, the rolling ball is allowed to be ejected through the aperture and onto the elevated surface. An ejecting mechanism is also provided for ejecting the rolling ball from underneath the elevated surface, through the aperture, and onto the elevated surface.

Abstract: A pinball game is provided with a control system which enables a game player to choose between a novice mode of play and a normal mode of play. In novice mode, game play proceeds for a predetermined time, regardless of the number of game balls played and selected game features, such as the tilt sensor, may be disabled. Game bonuses and free games may be made unavailable in novice mode to encourage experienced players to play in normal mode.

Abstract: A game of skill, such as a pinball game is integrated with a game of chance, such as a simulation of a board game. A micro-processor based control system permits play of the game of chance when a player achieves game objectives in the skill game. The game of chance is played using random number selection to determine the "moves" on the simulated board game. The player may continue the game of chance until he wins the game or he may stop at a designated point and return to the game of skill. The game of chance simulation may include a plurality of lights arranged in patterns to simulate board game paths.

Abstract: A pinball game in which an electromagnet is positioned on or below the playfield. A computer-controlled circuit is connected to the electromagnet and is operable to detect and control the pinball in response to changes in the magnetic field of the electromagnet.

Abstract: An arcade game including an inclined playing surface and a coin directing mechanism. A coin hopper forces multiple coins through the coin directing mechanism and onto the playing surface for each activation of a button by the player. The player can direct the multiple coins in a desired direction down the playing surface using the directing mechanism. The coins roll toward one or more targets on the playing surface, and a game score is adjusted based on the targets that receive the coins. Indicators for the targets can highlight specific targets and goals during game play. A progressive bonus score can also be added to the game score when a progressive goal is achieved by the player. After the game is over, a tilting mechanism tilts the playing surface to clear the playing surface of coins that have not rolled into apertures and are resting on the playing surface.

Abstract: A play feature for a pinball game permits the storage of a number of game balls and release of the balls at high speed and in quick succession back onto the playfield for multiple ball play. A rotor element having a plurality of vertical vanes is disposed within a circular housing having a conical lip. The base and vanes of the rotor, together with the conical lip, define receptacles for receiving game balls. When a predetermined rotor speed is reached, the balls travel upwards on the conical lip and outward against an outer wall of the housing. The stored balls are conveyed successively to a discharge channel where they return to the play field at high speed.

Abstract: A pinball machine is provided and generally includes a power supply for supplying unfiltered, unregulated DC voltage, a solenoid for activating a play feature device such as a flipper, a microprocessor for controlling game play activities, a clock associated with the microprocessor for supplying a first interrupt signal thereto, a memory device associated with the microprocessor having stored therein a plurality of duty cycle settings, each of the duty cycle settings comprising a predetermined pattern of ON and OFF states, a voltage detection circuit linked to the microprocessor and connected to the power supply for providing to the microprocessor a voltage value indicative of the level of the DC voltage, wherein the microprocessor utilizes the voltage value to select one of the plurality of duty cycle settings, and a driver, responsive to the microprocessor, connecting the power supply to the solenoid for controlling the flow of current thereto based upon a corresponding one of the states of the predetermine

Abstract: The play feature of the invention comprises a planar surface which is rotatable above the playfield of a pinball game between a ball receiving and a ball discharge position. An electromagnet is attached to the planar surface. A ball detector, such as an eddy current sensor, is mounted to the playfield adjacent the housing to detect the approach of a pinball to the electromagnet. The magnet can be energized to suspend a ball from the planar surface which is then rotated to a ball discharge position where the magnet is deenergized to discharge the ball.

Abstract: A wand for a pinball game which carries a pinball from one position to another by electromagnetism. The pinball rolls along the bottom surface of the wand as the wand is rotated to move the pinball from one position to another. A platform is provided to orient the pinball with respect to the wand whereby side-to-side movement of the pinball is minimized.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a position controller and a movable feature on the pinball machine. The position controller comprises a servomotor connected in operative relation to a shaft. The movable features connect to the shaft and are movable between several positions by the shaft. Circuitry is provided to produce a signal to command movement of the feature to one of the positions in a manner responsive to an event taking place in the pinball machine. Electronic circuitry causes the servomotor to move the shaft to a specific position in response to the signal, without the need for mechanical switches. Specifically, a plate-like, movable obscurer for the flippers is disclosed as the movable feature, although other types of movable features are discussed.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a playfield, a shooter for propelling balls on the playfield, and a figure having at least one movable limb. The limb is movable between a first position where the limb is capable of receiving and holding a ball, and a second position where the ball is propelled from the limb onto the playfield. A motor/solenoid and shaft are provided for moving the limb between the first and second positions to propel the ball from the limb, and then to retract the limb back to the first position. A ball delivery trough is positioned to deliver balls to the limb in the first position.

Abstract: A multi-directional ball popper for a pinball game provides an unpredictable path for the game ball as it emerges from the popper. A pair of solenoid plungers are provided on the underside of the game playfield and aligned with respect to the ball position when it rests in a recess on the playfield. A centering plate is provided to ensure precise alignment of the ball with both of the plungers. A switch is provided in the ball popper to detect the presence of the game ball. An optional guide element is provided above the playfield in order to guide the ball to one of two elevated surfaces after the ball emerges from the popper.

Abstract: A play feature for use in conjunction with a pinball game having an inclined playfield over which a ball may roll is provided. The play feature includes a ball directing member defining an entrance pathway, a first exit pathway, and a second exit pathway. The entrance pathway is provided to direct the ball along a first predetermined line, the first exit pathway is provided to direct the ball along a second predetermined line, and the second exit pathway provided to direct the ball along a third predetermined line. At least one electromagnet is operatively associated with the ball directing member for causing the ball, upon activation thereof, to alter its course of travel along the first predetermined line to a course of travel along the second predetermined line. Optionally, a second electromagnet may be used for causing the ball, upon activation thereof, to alter its course of travel along the first predetermined line to a course of travel along the third predetermined line.

Abstract: The present invention includes a ball shooting mechanism for shooting a PACHINKO ball into a play field, a variable display apparatus capable of variably displaying a plural kinds of identification information, and a starting condition determining means for determining satisfaction of game starting conditions satisfied under such conditions that a coin is deposited and the like in accordance with manipulation of a start button by a player. In response to a determination output of the starting condition determining means, the ball shooting mechanism is driven and controlled to automatically shoot a ball, and the variable display apparatus is, after variation of display thereof is started, is controlled to be stopped so as to draw and display a display result thereof.

Abstract: A pinball game using a pinball adapted to be propelled along a playfield is provided. The pinball game includes a target mounted above the playfield and first and second movable objects mounted above the playfield which are movable between a closed position wherein the first and second movable objects are disposed substantially adjacent to each other and an open position wherein the first and second movable objects are disposed substantially apart from each other. A solenoid having a plunger movable between an extended position and a retracted position in response to contact of the target by the pinball. An arm rotatable about a pivot point having first and second ends displaced from the pivot point is linked to the plunger at a point spaced from the pivot point. A first link connects the first end of the arm to one of the movable objects and a second link connecting the second end of the arm to the other of the movable objects.

Abstract: A pinball machine is provided and includes an inclined playfield for supporting a rolling ball. The inclined playfield has associated therewith at least one flipper, an exit lane, and a drain hole. A door mechanism having a retractable door is positioned adjacent to the exit lane and a holding area is positioned behind the door for allowing a ball to be stored therein whereby the ball is prevented from continuing down the exit lane and into the drain hole. A kicker mechanism is also associated with the holding area for launching the ball from the holding area back through the exit lane and into the play area of the playfield. A first switch is positioned upon the playfield and is operable through contact with the ball for causing the door to move from a first position wherein the ball is prevented from accessing the holding area to a second position wherein the ball is allowed to access the holding area.

Abstract: A wand for a pinball game which carries a pinball from one position to another by electromagnetism. The pinball rolls along the bottom surface of the wand as the wand is rotated to move the pinball from one position to another.

Abstract: The play feature for a game of the present invention comprises a multiple kicker ramp including a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal dividers which define parallel ball lanes and a plurality of perpendicular paths between the ball lanes. Balls enter the ramp from the playfield. A ball sensor is provided in each of the perpendicular paths, each sensor associated with a different point value. A multiple kicker element, which is activated by a player controlled switch, is provided in one of the ball lanes to direct a ball to the other ball lane over one of the perpendicular paths to activate its ball sensor. This causes the point value of the activated sensor to be added to the player's score.

Abstract: A pinball game for creating an optical illusion in which a real pinball normally enters a saucer cup held on a stage during a first operating state, During a second operating state, the stage screens are closed and the pinball enters a lift mechanism held behind the stage. A false pinball is displayed in the saucer cup and is raised by the lift mechanism to create the illusion that the real pinball is floating in defiance of gravity. After the false pinball and the real pinball are in the loft area above the stage, the real pinball is guided to a ramp which returns the real pinball to the playfield.

Abstract: The magnetic ball-walker of the invention comprises an L-shaped arm which rotates in a plane perpendicular to the playfield for transporting a pinball between first and second playfield surfaces. The arm carries an electromagnet on one end and a counterweight on the other, the counterweight maintaining the arm in a ball receiving position. In this position, a ferromagnetic ball received from the first surface can be captured by the electromagnet if energized. The momentum of the rolling ball causes the arm to rotate to a ball discharge position so that the ball can be discharged onto the second surface by deenergizing the electromagnet.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention comprises a ball well and electromagnetic coil. A ball sensor is located near the well entrance to signal when a ball is detected. The electromagnet, disposed at the well entrance, attracts the ball from the playfield into the well where it is retained. To eject the ball, the magnet is reenergized and the ball is ejected form the well onto the playfield.

Abstract: An amusement device has an outer track forming a loop surounding a playing field, and is adapted to retain one or more play objects in motion around the outer track. An adjustable motor accelerates the play object within the track to a desired speed, and a lever directs the moving play object from the track to the play field.

Abstract: The play feature consists of a first surface and second surface for supporting a rolling ball therebetween. The surfaces are made movable relative to one another such that in a first position they support a ball therebetween and in a second position they are spaced far enough apart to allow a ball to fall therebetween. The surfaces are movable relative to one another by a solenoid or other similar driver where the solenoid is controlled by a player operated button. As a ball rides along the first and second surfaces, the player operates the solenoid to move the first and second surfaces apart allowing the ball to fall between the surfaces at a desired location. A plurality of targets, ramps or the like can be provided below the surfaces as target objectives for the player.

Abstract: The player controlled play feature consists of an area on or associated with the playfield which is partially confined by a plurality of bumpers. At least one target is provided in this area and an entrance is provided such that a pinball can enter the area defined by the bumpers. Located in the defined area and supported below the surface thereof are a plurality of electromagnets energized by activation of player controlled buttons mounted on the game's cabinet. The game player can selectively activate the electromagnets to redirect the pinball and propel it toward the provided targets.

Abstract: In a pinball machine, a ball spinner comprising a cup adapted for rotation relative to a playing field, the cup having a curved inner surface which terminates in a peripheral flange, and a centrally disposed hub extending downwardly along the axis of rotation, the hub having a compression spring disposed thereof for maintaining the cup in a non-rotating, unweighted position, the cup being operably associated with a drive motor for rotation thereof, and being adapted to engage a switch upon sensing the weight of the pinball therein, the switch enabling the drive motor and remaining in a closed position until the pinball is ejected from the cup during rotation.

Abstract: A rolling ball entertainment device such as a pinball machine comprises a frame which carries a playfield, plus a shooter for rolling a ball onto the playfield. By this invention the device also includes signalling device, an auxiliary control, and electronics for activating the signalling device. Also, a timer is provided for defining a period of time beginning with the activating of the signalling device. The electronics, connected to a feature of the device, permit the auxiliary control to activate the feature during the period of time. This provides an added dimension to rolling ball entertainment games in which an alert player can improve the score by use of the auxiliary control in those periods as indicated by the signalling device.

Abstract: A pinball machine which comprises a housing, a playfield, a motor assembly and a movable assembly is provided. The motor assembly is electronically adapted to respond to the actuation of the targets and is movably connected to the movable assembly. Mechanisms are provided to move the movable assembly from a first position to a second position. The moving mechanisms are operable to return the movable assembly to the first position in response to the actuation of one or more of the targets. In the illustrative embodiment the movable assembly resembles a woman tied to a log on a lumber mill saw table. The first position is the beginning of the saw table and the second position is near a saw blade. The player of the game is prompted to hit specific targets which will save the woman by returning the log to the first position away from the saw blade.

Abstract: The ball diverter of the invention consists of a pivoting cage located above an elevated track. The cage, when in its lowered position, will intercept a ball rolling on the track. The cage can then be pivoted to remove the ball from the track and deposit it on a surface disposed beneath the track. When the cage is in the raised position, the ball is allowed to traverse the track uninterrupted.

Abstract: A planetary ball storage device for a pinball game according to the present invention consists of a horizontally disposed rotating wheel having a plurality of pinball receiving pockets arrayed on the periphery of the wheel. The game player, using the flippers, can direct a ball into an empty pocket when a pocket is in a ball receiving position after a predetermined game objective has been met. Balls are returned to the playfield by the utilization of a magnetic lifter arm controlled by the game microprocessor. The wheel is rotated by an electric motor and its position is detected by an optical switch assembly. A second optical switch assembly generates a signal to energize the magnetic lifter arm.

Abstract: The play feature for a pinball game of the present invention comprises a roulette scoring device mounted above the playfield which includes a horizontally rotating wheel having a plurality of apertures arrayed around its periphery. A different point value indicated to the player is associated with each of the apertures. Pinballs can enter the roulette scoring device not only from the shooter lane, but also from a ramp disposed on the playfield. An optical switch or microswitch included in the ramp adjacent a holding device and a microswitch in the shooter lane generate signals sent to the game microprocessor to cause the wheel to rotate. An optical switch mounted on the playfield senses the return of the ball to the playfield and signals the game microprocessor to stop the rotation of the wheel and to add the appropriate point value to the player's score.

Abstract: A gaming machine combines a random selection feature with a skill feature to allow the player to utilize his ability to manipulate the skill feature to improve his chances of winning on the gaming machine. A reel slot machine is combined with a playing surface using a ball. The reel slot machine is first activated and a combination of slot symbols are randomly selected. The player manipulates a ball about a playing surface and the travel of the ball can result in additional spins of one or more reels of the slot machine so that other winning opportunities can be created. The gaming machine can be operated so that the playing surface is only activated when the player achieves a losing combination on the reel slot machine portion. This allows the player a second chance to win if he can use his skill on the playing surface to respin the reel slots. The player can also win "bonus" amounts as set out on a predetermined schedule of payouts by his skillful manipulation of the ball on the playing surface.

Abstract: The tilt switch/incline indicator of the invention consists of a first support member that is connected to the game cabinet in a known orientation. A second member is pivotably supported on the first member and can be fixed relative thereto at angles corresponding to the desired angle of incline of the playfield. The second member supports a pendulum-type tilt switch similar to that used in the prior art. The pendulum acts like a plumb line to give a visual indication to the game operator that the playfield is at the desired angle set at the second member by observing when the pendulum is centered relative to the contact. The mechanism of the invention uses the tilt switch as the level indicator such that the playfield can be positioned at a known angle without requiring a separate level indicator or the recalibration to the tilt switch.

Abstract: A pinball elevator has an inclined conveyor belt tensioned between two pulleys and driven by an electric motor. The belt is perforated with a series of spaced circular apertures for receiving the pinball. Preferably, the apertures have a diameter of about 80% of the diameter of the pinball. A lower one of the pulleys is rotatably mounted beneath the playfield of the pinball machine, and an upper one of the pulleys is rotatably mounted above the playfield. The ball is received by the belt at an entrance location, and is ejected from the belt at an exit location. The ball passes above and over the upper pulley when being conveyed by the belt from the entrance location to the exit location. The upper pulley has a concave central region to prevent the pinball from being prematurely ejected from the belt by the upper pulley. At the entrance location, the pinball sits on the belt and abuts against a wall of the playfield.

Abstract: A pinball machine has a plurality of ball-deflecting components mounted to a playfield section. The playfield section is selectively translated in response to player input, so that the ball is deflected by the ball-deflecting components to locations selected by the player. The translation of the playfield section, for example, is responsive to the conventional push-button switches that are operated by the player for activating flippers, and in this case the push-buttons activate respective solenoids for translating the playfield section in two different directions. The playfield section, however, could be translated in different directions along two or three orthogonal axes in response to a more complex player-input device such as a joy-stick.

Abstract: The visual display of the invention consists of a holographic display projected through the playfield. The display projects an image that is related to the playfield and is mounted on a flexible plate that is flexed by a rotating cam wheel. As the cam wheel flexes the plate mounted image appears to the player to move.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention consists of a three level target assembly where the uppermost level is mounted on a section of the playfield. The two lower levels are mounted to the underside of the playfield section such that upon activation of the play feature's drive system, the playfield section is raised to sequentially expose the two lower levels. In the preferred embodiment, the upper level includes ball ejector holes, the middle level includes button targets and the lower level includes ball diverting chutes. The game's microprocessor can be programmed to allow the ball ejector holes to eject the trapped ball only after the player completes a predetermined series of shots using a second ball. In such a situation, the ejection of the trapped ball will result in multi-ball play where more than one ball is in play at the same time.

Abstract: A ball accelerator mechanism employs one or more electromagnetic coils in combination with sensor elements to accelerate a rolling ball made of ferro-magnetic material. As a ball approaches the coil, it operates the sensor applying a DC current pulse to the coil. As the ball enters the coil, it is magnetically accelerated until it clears the sensor at which time the current is turned off. The length of the current pulse is thus a function of ball velocity. Preferably to maximize acceleration, the width of the coil is an integral multiple of the ball diameter.

Abstract: A game apparatus (10) including a projectile propeller (12) mounted on a forward end portion (14) of a housing (16). The game apparatus further includes a target (18) mounted to translate forwardly and rearwardly with respect to the projectile propeller adjacent a rearward end portion (20) of the housing. The projectile propeller is operable to propel a game projectile (22) towards the target (18) with a varying trajectory relative to the translational position of the target.

Abstract: A ball conveying game apparatus including a plurality of ball support portions provided on a vertical game board surface, a protrusible and retractable plunger provided at at least one of the ball support members, and a manual operating member such as a pressing member linked on an operational basis to the ball support member through a predetermined interlocking mechanism so that a ball can be transferred from one to another of the ball support members along a ball moving course by operating the manual operating member. The ball is conveyed from a starting point to a goal point by a plurality of choosable ball moving courses arranged in the ball moving course. Selection from among the choosable ball moving courses is made by operating the manual operating member. In playing the ball conveying game apparatus, therefore, a player is required to dexterously manipulate the manual operating member. Various ways of playing are possible.