Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine that urges a player to perform counting and suppresses an increase in a storage value of a specific counter.SOLUTION: A counting alarm display for urging a player to perform counting is displayed on the basis that a storage value of a specific counter is equal to or more than a specific value, a specific sound is output on the basis of restoration from power interruption, power is interrupted in a state in which the storage value of the specific counter is equal to or more than the specific value, power is restored from power interruption, and the counting warning display is displayed when the storage value of the specific counter is equal to or more than the specific value. Although a performance sound pertaining to progress of a game is not output during output of the specific sound, a sound pertaining to counting is output when counting operation means is operated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine. [Background technology]

[0002] A known gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine that includes a gaming area in which gaming balls (gaming value) move and a launching device that launches the gaming balls into the gaming area. The pachinko gaming machine includes a starting port provided in the gaming area, and when the entry of a gaming ball into the starting port is detected, a special symbol lottery is held. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the gaming state transitions to a special gaming state, and multiple special games are played in the special gaming state. In each special game, a big prize opening provided in the gaming area operates to an open state, and a gaming ball is paid out based on the entry of the gaming ball into the big prize opening.

[0003] Also, as a gaming machine, a slot machine is known that is equipped with a plurality of reels with a plurality of symbols arranged on the outer periphery, a start lever, a stop button, etc. In the slot machine, the reels start to rotate based on a game start operation, and an internal lottery is performed using a lottery table. When each reel stops, a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination selected in the internal lottery is displayed, and when the winning combination is a winning combination, a process corresponding to the winning combination is performed, such as a payout process that provides a game value, or a replay process that allows a player to play again without consuming a new game value.

[0004] In addition, some gaming machines of this type transmit the number of gaming balls managed by the managing gaming machine to a dedicated unit based on the pressing of a counting button (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-73706 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Incidentally, in gaming machines, it is required to encourage the player to count and prevent the stored value of a specific counter from becoming excessively large.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a gaming machine that encourages a player to count and prevents the stored value of a specific counter from becoming excessive. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for play. The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0009] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, when power is interrupted while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power interruption, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power interruption occurs, it is possible to encourage the player to continue counting across the power interruption. In other words, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the player does not perform counting because the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power interruption. It is also possible to prevent the player from not performing counting and the stored value of the specific counter from becoming excessively large. In addition, the specific sound is output when the power is restored from a power outage, and while the specific sound is being output, no sound effects related to the progress of the game are output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound related to counting is output. This makes it easier for players to recognize that counting has been performed. In addition, the counting sound can be prevented from being drowned out by the sound effects related to the progress of the game. Furthermore, even if a player is in a state where play is not possible, the player can grasp the number of game values ​​available for play.

[0010] In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment has A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for play. the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, the performance control means cuts off power while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, causes the main control means to enter the second state and causes the count warning display to be displayed; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0011] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, when power is interrupted while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power interruption, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power interruption occurs, it is possible to encourage the player to continue counting across the power interruption. In other words, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the player does not perform counting because the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power interruption. It is also possible to prevent the player from not performing counting and the stored value of the specific counter from becoming excessively large. In addition, if a power interruption occurs while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed from the second state before the main control means enters the third state after power is restored, so that the player can be prompted to count more quickly after power is restored. Furthermore, even if a player is in a state where play is not possible, the player can grasp the number of game values ​​available for play. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to encourage the player to count, and prevent the stored value of a specific counter from becoming excessively large. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 shows the jackpot lottery table. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the symbol lottery table of the same. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 9] This is a diagram to explain the display of the performance patterns and reserved patterns. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an addition possibility determination. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram to explain the complete function activation presentation. [Figure 12] This is a diagram to explain the complete function activation preview presentation. [Figure 13] This is a diagram to explain the presentation that notifies the player that the number of game balls has been cleared. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the counting warning presentation. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the complete function activation warning presentation. [Figure 16] This is a diagram to explain the presentation to notify of a door opening error. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is in front of a gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "rear", "up and down" means that the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing with the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

[0015] The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is different from conventional pachinko gaming machines in that the player can play without touching the gaming balls. The gaming machine 1 is of an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of gaming balls (gaming media) circulate inside the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine in which gaming value as electronic information is used, and the gaming value is consumed and paid out through play. In the gaming machine 1, the payment of gaming value means paying out (granting) the gaming value electronically.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine according to this embodiment includes an outer frame 2 forming the outer surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 provided inside the gaming machine and forming a gaming area 4 in which a gaming ball moves, an inner frame 7 holding the gaming board 6, a glass unit 8 making the gaming board 6 visible but inaccessible to a player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 10 is attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that closes the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0017] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a number of front frame lamps 12 that output light effects to enhance the game. In addition, speakers 14 (sound output means) that output sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0018] A grip unit 20 (handle) is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when a player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launching device (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated to launch gaming balls into the gaming area 4. The launching device of this embodiment can launch 99 gaming balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

[0019] The front frame 10 is provided with a performance button 26 (performance operation means), and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed in the gaming machine changes.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, a dedicated unit 400 (game value lending device, specified device) is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 as a device for lending game value, and is connected to the gaming machine 1. On the front side of the dedicated unit 400, there are provided a bill insertion slot 406 into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion / ejection slot 402 into which a card (game value management medium) can be inserted / ejected, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, and a card return button 405. The card is used to manage the number of game values ​​owned by the player. In other words, the number of game values ​​owned by the player can be grasped by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. In addition, management of the number of play values ​​by a card may be performed by storing the number of play values ​​on the card itself, or the number of play values ​​may be stored in a designated management device etc. installed in an amusement arcade etc., and the number of play values ​​stored in the management device etc. may be linked to identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or an identification number unique to each card).

[0021] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the loan button 403 is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring the game value to the gaming machine 1. When the loan button 403 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game values ​​are credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a bill inserted into a bill insertion slot 406 or a stored value stored as a prepaid balance on a card. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring the game value to the gaming machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game values ​​are credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a game value owned by the player and managed by a card (game value linked to the card). In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or the replay button 404 as a loan operation means is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation), and based on the loan operation, a predetermined amount of game value is transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, a game value number display device (game ball number display device) 211 and a count button (count operation means) 212 are provided on the left side (dedicated unit 400 side) of the front frame 10. Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 400, in the gaming machine 1, a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​is stored in a game value number storage area of ​​the frame control board 201 described later. Hereinafter, the value (stored value) indicated by the game value number storage area is referred to as the "number of balls held" (number of balls held). The number of balls held can be said to be the number of game values ​​available for play. The number of balls held is displayed on the game value number display device 211. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of balls held is displayed by the 7-segment display.

[0023] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see FIG. 5), which controls the value (number of balls held) stored in the game value number storage area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls held based on the detection of the launch of a game ball. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the payout of prize balls. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held based on the detection of a foul ball. When a game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls held by the amount of the game value transferred. When a game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 also decreases the number of balls held by the amount of the game value transferred. The frame control board 201 also controls the number of balls held to be displayed on the game value number display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of balls held.

[0024] The counting button 212 is a button that is operated when transmitting (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (game value stored in the game value number storage area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 has a pressing portion (operation portion), which is formed so that it can be pressed. When the player ends a game, for example, the player operates (presses) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values ​​is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game value is transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when an operation (presses) is performed on the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400, a card that allows the number of game values ​​owned by the player to be known is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / ejection port 402).

[0025] 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6. A circular outer rail 28 is provided on the game board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 in which game balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 30 is provided on the left end of the game area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 28, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 guide game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) provided below the game board 6 to the game area 4.

[0026] At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a presentation unit 36 ​​including a liquid crystal display 32 (presentation display device, display means) that displays presentation images and the like to liven up the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. At the center above the liquid crystal display 32, there is provided a lighting device 38 (lighting means) that constitutes the presentation unit 36 ​​and outputs presentation light and the like to liven up the game.

[0027] In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball launched from the launching device falls in the game area 4a on the left side or the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, in the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed to the surface of the game board 6 so as to intersect with each other, and the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly.

[0028] An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass, and the game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 through which the game balls can fall downward from the stage 44, and the game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

[0029] A first start port 46 (first area) into which a game ball (including a game ball that has fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter is provided below the center of the stage 44. A first start port switch 100 (see FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 46 is provided inside the first start port 46. When the first start port switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 also executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. The main control board 200 also executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100. The game ball that has entered the first start port 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0030] A plurality of (three) general winning holes 47 (upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, and lower left general winning hole 47c) are provided to the left of the first starting hole 46 in the game area 4. A general winning hole switch 101 (see FIG. 5) is also provided on the game board 6 to detect a game ball that has entered the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c. When the general winning hole switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 also executes the payout of prize balls (for example, three balls) based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning hole switch 101. The general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or may be provided for multiple (e.g., three) general prize openings 47. In addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to the general prize openings 47 may be provided.

[0031] A passage gate 48 through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A gate switch 102 (see FIG. 5) that detects the passage of a game ball is provided inside the passage gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (the game ball passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether or not a normal win has been won.

[0032] In the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 (second area) is provided below the passing gate 48. In addition, a second start port switch 103 (see FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is provided in the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball) based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0033] The second starting hole 49 is provided with a normal role 54 (first movable object) that can move between a reduced state (closed state) in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 (a state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 49) and an expanded state (open state) in which it is easy for a game ball to enter (a state in which it is easy for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 49). The normal role 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal winning is won in the normal symbol lottery.

[0034] In addition, a large prize opening 50 (third area, predetermined area) is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, a count switch 104 (see FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 is provided in the large prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the large prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes the payout of prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. In addition, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. In addition, the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0035] The big prize opening 50 is provided with a special role 56 (second movable object, specific movable object) that can move between a closed state (non-entry state) in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 50 and an open state (entry state) in which the game ball can enter. The special role 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to be in an open state under a predetermined condition in a special game state that starts when a big prize is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery). The special role 56 is also controlled to be in an open state under a predetermined condition in a small prize game state that starts when a small prize is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery).

[0036] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) for distributing the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see FIG. 5) is provided in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on detection of a game ball passing through the specific area (passage of the game ball through the specific area). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passing state in which the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passing state in which the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. That is, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passing state, the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. This makes it impossible for the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 to pass through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the distribution means is displaced to the non-specific area passing state, the game ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is distributed to the discharge area. This makes it impossible for the game ball that enters the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The distribution means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. The game ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is first detected by the count switch 104, and then distributed by the distribution means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, is discharged to the discharge path. At this time, the game ball that has been distributed to the specific area is detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0037] At the bottom of the game area 4, an outlet 62 is provided to collect game balls that have fallen through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 into the game machine. Here, inside the game machine, a discharge path (not shown) through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass is provided. In this game machine, all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the discharge path. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path by entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 or passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, the game balls that have entered each of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 are detected by the switches 100, 101, 103, 104 arranged in the winning holes, and then guided to the discharge path. The game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to a discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a game ball from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

[0038] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launch output of the game ball can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left hitting area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right hitting area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0039] The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation, and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42, and the stage 44 to win the first start hole 46 (left hit), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right game area 4b and passes through the passing gate 48 or wins the second start hole 49 or wins the big win hole 50 (right hit). In this embodiment, left hit may be called the first game method, and right hit may be called the second game method.

[0040] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the gaming ball falls in the left gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second start opening 49 and the large winning opening 50. In addition, when the gaming ball falls in the right gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not enter the first start opening 46 and the general winning opening 47.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3, at the lower right of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, there is provided a status display section 70 that indicates various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0042] 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal reserve display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special reserve display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special reserve display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0043] The normal pattern display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal pattern lottery is held, the two lamps are flashed to variably display the normal pattern, and the two lamps are turned on or off to statically display the normal pattern, thereby displaying the result of the normal pattern lottery.

[0044] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of the reserved random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery when the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is reserved because a normal pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already in a changing or stopped display when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining the two lamps by turning on, turning off, or flashing.

[0045] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a game ball entering the first starting hole 46, the 7-segment display is caused to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is caused to light up in one of a plurality of manners to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.

[0046] The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved first special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if a random number value for special pattern lottery (lottery information) is obtained, so the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the first special random number value.The first special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by combining the two lamps to turn on, turn off, or flash.

[0047] The second special pattern display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 49, the second special pattern is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display, and the second special pattern is displayed in a static manner by lighting the 7-segment display in one of a plurality of different modes, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.

[0048] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved second special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or the second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and therefore a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for special pattern lottery is obtained, and the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the second special random number value.The second special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0049] The game state display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game state currently set by a combination of turning on, off, or blinking the six lamps. Details will be described later, but in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, multiple game states including a normal state, a minute time-saving state, a time-saving state, and a special game state can be set. In the time-saving state, the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened compared to the normal state and the minute time-saving state, and the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery arrives frequently.

[0050] 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, the sub-control board 202, and the frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or software consisting of a given program pre-stored in the ROM or the like.

[0051] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start port switch 100, the second start port switch 103, the general winning port switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the normal device 54 and the special device 56 based on the calculation results.

[0052] The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150, performs various calculations to execute effects that match the progress of the game, and based on the results of the calculations, controls the operation of effect devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, LCD display 32, and lighting device 38.

[0053] The frame control board 201 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting button 212, controls the balls held (number of game balls), and controls the game value number display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200. The frame control board 201 may be formed integrally with the main control board 200.

[0054] The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal pattern lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal gimmick control means 224, a special pattern lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.

[0055] The random number generating means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). Note that in this embodiment, the "random number value" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values ​​that may be generated regularly but may function substantially as random numbers because the timing of acquisition is irregular.

[0056] The normal pattern lottery means 220 acquires a random number value for normal pattern lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on a detection signal input from the gate switch 102 which detects each game ball passing through the passing gate 48, stores the random number value for normal pattern lottery in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal pattern lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has been obtained based on the random number value for normal pattern lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0057] In detail, the normal random number memory means 2912 is provided with four normal reserve memory areas, normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery, and one normal reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery read from normal reserve memory area 1 and used for the normal pattern lottery until the changing and stopping display of the normal patterns ends. Then, when the normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires the normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generating means 210, if the normal symbol lottery random number value is not stored in any of the normal reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the normal symbol lottery random number value acquired is first stored in the normal reservation memory area 1. Then, when the normal symbol lottery random number value is stored in the normal reservation memory area 1, if the normal symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the normal symbol lottery random number value is not stored in the normal reservation memory area and control to open the normal role 54 is not being executed, the normal symbol lottery random number value is read out from the normal reservation memory area 1 immediately to perform the normal symbol lottery, and the normal symbol lottery random number value used for the normal symbol lottery is stored in the normal reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable or stationary manner, i.e., when a random number value for the normal symbol lottery is stored in the normal pending memory area, or when control for opening the normal reel 54 is being executed, the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal pending memory area 1.

[0058] Then, when a random number value for normal pattern lottery is reserved in normal hold memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from gate switch 102 to obtain a random number value for normal pattern lottery, the normal hold memory area selection means 220 stores the random number value for normal pattern lottery in the normal hold memory area with the smallest ordinal number among normal hold memory area 1 to normal hold memory area 4 in which a random number value for normal pattern lottery is not reserved, on the condition that the number of random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery reserved in normal hold memory area 1 to normal hold memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the normal hold number is less than four.

[0059] Then, when the variable display and stop display of the normal symbol are finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random number value for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reservation memory area, and when the random number value for normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal reservation memory area 1, the random number value for normal symbol lottery is read from the normal reservation memory area 1 to perform the normal symbol lottery, and the random number value for normal symbol lottery performed after the normal reservation memory area 1 is stored in the normal reservation memory area 1, provided that the control to open the normal role 54 is not being executed. Here, when the random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reservation memory area 2 or later, the remaining random number value for normal symbol lottery is moved from the original normal reservation memory area to the normal reservation memory area with the ordinal number one smaller. For example, when the random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reservation memory area 2 to the normal reservation memory area 3, it is moved to the normal reservation memory area 1 to the normal reservation memory area 2.

[0060] In this way, in the normal random number memory means 2912, the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has been performed is reserved in the normal reserve memory area up to a maximum of one, and the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has not been performed is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4 up to a maximum of four.

[0061] The normal symbol lottery means 220 performs normal winning determination processing and the like as the normal symbol lottery.

[0062] The normal winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not a "normal winning" has been won. In the normal winning determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects which normal symbol lottery table to refer to among the multiple types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 and performs the random number determination process according to the game state. Here, in each normal symbol lottery table, "normal winning" or "miss" is associated with each of the 100 normal symbol lottery random number values ​​from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether or not one normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal winning, thereby determining whether or not the "normal winning" has been won.

[0063] The normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in the time-saving state (excluding the minute time-saving state, the same applies below) is set to have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not in the time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is in the time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a "normal win" than the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is not in the time-saving state.

[0064] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0065] In the normal pattern display control process, the normal display control means 222 changes the display of the normal pattern by flashing the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72 until a predetermined change time has elapsed, and displays the result of the normal pattern lottery on the normal pattern display unit 72 by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72 to stop the display of the normal pattern depending on whether or not a "normal win" has been won in the normal win determination process.

[0066] In this embodiment, the normal pattern variation time is determined according to the game state at the time when the normal pattern lottery is performed. Specifically, when the game state is in the time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set shorter than when the game state is not in the time-saving state. For example, when the game state is not in the time-saving state at the time when the normal pattern lottery is performed, the normal pattern variation time is set to a first time (e.g., 20 seconds), and when the game state is in the time-saving state at the time when the normal pattern lottery is performed, the normal pattern variation time is set to a second time (e.g., 1 second) shorter than the first time. Therefore, when the game state is in the time-saving state, the opportunity to perform the normal pattern lottery arrives more frequently.

[0067] In the normal hold display control processing, the normal display control means 222 displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74 according to the number of random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery stored in the normal random number memory means 2912.

[0068] The normal role control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal role 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the game state is not in the time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time A (for example, 0.1 seconds) has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating the winning of the "normal win". Also, when the game state is in the time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time B (for example, 6 seconds) longer than time A has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating the winning of the "normal win".

[0069] Therefore, when a "normal win" is obtained in the normal symbol lottery, if the game state is not in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to hardly increase the ease of entry of the game ball into the second start hole 49, but if the game state is in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to increase the ease of entry of the game ball into the second start hole 49. In this embodiment, the time-saving state controls the operation of the normal device 54 so that the game ball can enter the second start hole 49 more easily than in the normal state and the minute time-saving state. Therefore, the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state and the minute time-saving state.

[0070] In this embodiment, the control of the operation of the normal role 54 is different between the normal state and the micro-time-saving state. In the micro-time-saving state, the opening time of the normal role 54 (time in the expanded state) is set slightly longer than in the normal state. In the micro-time-saving state, any one or more of the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, or the opening time of the normal role 54 may be different from that of the normal state. For example, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery and the opening time of the normal role 54 may be the same in the micro-time-saving state and the normal state, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be different. In that case, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be slightly shorter in the micro-time-saving state than in the normal state.

[0071] The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means) acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 that detects each game ball entering the first start port 46, and stores it as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. In addition, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects each game ball entering the second start port 49, and stores it as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won, using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914.

[0072] The special random number memory means 2914 is provided with four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number values, and one first special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the first special random number value read from first special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the varying and stopping display of the first special pattern ends.

[0073] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the first start switch 100, in a state where the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4, the acquired random number value for special symbol lottery is first stored as a first special random number value in the first special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value is not stored in the first special reservation memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the first special random number value is read out from the first special reservation memory area 1 immediately to perform a special symbol lottery, and the first special random number value used for the special symbol lottery is stored in the first special reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the first special symbol is being displayed in a varying or stopped state, i.e., when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or the game state is a special game state, or a small win game is being executed, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0074] Then, when a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the first start port switch 100 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 in which the first special random number value is not reserved and which has the smallest ordinal number, on the condition that the number of first special random number values ​​reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the first special reserve number is less than four.

[0075] The special random number memory means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve memory areas, second special reserve memory area 1 to second special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired second special random number values, and one second special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the second special random number value read from second special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the varying and stopping display of the second special pattern ends.

[0076] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the second start hole switch 103, in a state where the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol lottery means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for special symbol lottery as a second special random number value in the second special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the second special random number value is not stored in the second special reservation memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the special symbol lottery means 230 immediately reads out the second special random number value from the second special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random number value used for the special symbol lottery in the second special reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the second special symbol is being displayed in a varying or stopped manner, i.e., when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, or when a small win game is being executed, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0077] Then, when a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is further input from the second start port switch 103 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which the second special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of second special random number values ​​reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the second special reserve number is less than four.

[0078] When the variable display and stationary display of the first special symbol are completed, the special symbol selection means 230 erases the first special random number value stored in the first special reservation memory area. When the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol selection, and the first special random number value used for the special symbol selection is stored in the first special reservation memory area, on condition that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed. In addition, the special symbol selection means 230 erases the second special random number value stored in the second special reservation memory area, on condition that the variable display and stationary display of the second special symbol are completed. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area 1, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area 1, a special symbol lottery is performed, and the second special random number value used in the special symbol lottery is stored in the second special reservation memory area, provided that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed. In this embodiment, since the first special random number value and the second special random number value are consumed in parallel, the second special symbol variable display may start during the first special symbol variable display, or the first special symbol variable display may start during the second special symbol variable display.

[0079] In addition, when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, provided that the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. When the second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, even if the first special random number value is stored in any of the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. That is, the second special random number value may be consumed in preference to the first special random number value. In addition, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery. In other words, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be consumed in the order in which the gaming ball enters the first start hole 46 or the second start hole 49.

[0080] When the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and the first special random number value remains in the first special reserve memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and the second special random number value remains in the second special reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining first special random number value or second special random number value is moved from the original special reserve memory area to a special reserve memory area having an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if the first special random number value remains in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 3, and if the second special random number value remains in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the second special random number value stored in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 is moved to each of the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 2.

[0081] In the special random number storage means 2914, the first special random number value for which a special symbol lottery has not been performed is reserved up to a maximum of four in the first special reservation storage area 1 to the first special reservation storage area 4. Also, the second special random number value for which a special symbol lottery has not been performed is reserved up to a maximum of four in the second special reservation storage area 1 to the second special reservation storage area 4.

[0082] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be described. The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random numbers such as a jackpot determination random number and a symbol determination random number as random numbers for special symbol lottery based on the detection signal input from the first start hole switch 100 or the second start hole switch 103, and stores these multiple types of random numbers as the first special random number or the second special random number in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, etc. as a special symbol lottery.

[0083] The jackpot determination process is a process for reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special reservation memory area 1 or the second special reservation memory area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, and determining whether or not there has been a jackpot. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65,535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0084] In the jackpot determination process, the special pattern selection means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot selection tables stored in the selection table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to in performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one jackpot determination random number value that has been read out has been stored as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

[0085] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a jackpot lottery table A shown in Fig. 6(a) and a jackpot lottery table B shown in Fig. 6(b). In each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot or the like is associated with each of 65536 jackpot determination random numbers from 0 to 65535.

[0086] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the first special random number, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random number is set so that the probability of the "jackpot" being won is 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and the probability of the "C time reduction" being won is 349 / 350 (65349 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether the "jackpot" or the "C time reduction" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table A and judging whether the jackpot determination random number read from the first reserved memory area 1 is associated with the "jackpot" or the "C time reduction". In this embodiment, the first special symbol lottery is always set to win either the "jackpot" or the "C time reduction". In this embodiment, the probability of winning the "jackpot" or the "C time reduction" in the first special symbol lottery is set not to change depending on the game state. In the first special symbol lottery, there are cases where the winner (big win) is won and cases where the winner is not won, and the latter case (which may be called a miss) includes cases where the C time reduction (C time reduction 1 or C time reduction 2 described later) is won. In addition, "not winning" may also include cases where the time reduction is not won (in other words, a complete miss).

[0087] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random number, and the correspondence between each judgment result and the jackpot determination random number is set so that the probability of the "jackpot" being won is 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and the probability of the "small jackpot" being won is 1 / 139.8 (469 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether the "jackpot" or the "small jackpot" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table B and judging whether the jackpot determination random number read from the second reserved memory area 1 is associated with the "jackpot" or the "small jackpot". In this embodiment, the probability of winning the "jackpot" or the "small jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases where a hit (jackpot or small jackpot) is won and cases where a hit is not won. In addition, the latter "if you do not win the prize" does not include the case where you win the C-time reduction without winning the prize.

[0088] The pattern determination process is a process that is performed when a "jackpot", "C time reduction", or "small jackpot" is won in the jackpot determination process. The pattern determination process reads out one pattern determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914, and when a "jackpot" is won, it determines which of multiple jackpot patterns the jackpot pattern (type of jackpot) will be, when a "C time reduction" is won, it determines which of multiple time reduction patterns the time reduction pattern (type of C time reduction) will be, and when a "small jackpot" is won, it determines which of multiple small jackpot patterns the small jackpot pattern (type of small jackpot) will be. Here, one pattern determination random number value is obtained from 200 pattern determination random number values ​​from 0 to 199 based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 and the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number memory means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0089] In the pattern determination process, the special pattern lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of pattern lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to in performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one read pattern determination random number value was stored as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

[0090] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a symbol lottery table A shown in Fig. 7(a), a symbol lottery table B shown in Fig. 7(b), a symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c), and a symbol lottery table D shown in Fig. 7(d). In each symbol lottery table, a predetermined symbol is associated with each symbol determination random number value.

[0091] The symbol selection table A shown in Fig. 7(a) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 0.005 / 100, "jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 59.997 / 100, and "jackpot 3" (7R time reduction 0) is won with a probability of 39.998 / 100. The special symbol selection means 230 refers to the symbol selection table A and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0092] The symbol selection table B shown in Fig. 7(b) is selected when "C time reduction" is won and one read symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "C time reduction 1" (micro time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 80.5 / 100 (about 80%) and "C time reduction 2" (time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 19.5 / 100 (about 20%). The special symbol selection means 230 refers to the symbol selection table B and determines which of the multiple types of time reduction symbols the read one symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of time reduction symbols has been won.

[0093] The symbol selection table C shown in Fig. 7(c) is selected when the "jackpot" is won and the read one symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that the "jackpot 4" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100 and the "jackpot 5" (10R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol selection means 230 refers to the symbol selection table C and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read one symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0094] The symbol selection table D shown in Fig. 7(d) is selected when a "small win" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "small win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 50 / 100, and "small win 2" is won with a probability of 50 / 100 (10R time reduction 110). The special symbol selection means 230 refers to the symbol selection table D and determines which of the multiple types of small win symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of small win symbols has been won.

[0095] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and executes the execution process of the special game. The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a small win game based on winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery, and executes the execution process of the small win game. Note that the special game may include the small win game.

[0096] The special game state is started based on winning a "jackpot" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery) and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of times the special game is played) have been played according to the type (category) of the jackpot symbol. When the special game state is started based on winning "jackpot 1," "jackpot 4," or "jackpot 5" in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of special games from the first round to the tenth round have been played. When the special game state is started based on winning "jackpot 2" or "jackpot 3" in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 7 rounds of special games from the first round to the seventh round have been played. Details will be described later, but if a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery, at the end of the special game state, a predetermined number of time-saving cycles corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and a time-saving state is initiated, or a predetermined number of micro-time-saving cycles corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and a micro-time-saving state is initiated.

[0097] The small win game state is started based on winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of small win games (one in this embodiment) have been played. In the small win game, the special role 56 is in an open state that allows the game ball to enter the large prize winning port 50, and the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, in the small win game, the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that the game ball that entered the large prize winning port 50 during the execution of the small win game can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "small win 1" or "small win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, the game ball can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area in the small win game state. Then, when the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during a small win game state (when the passage of a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is detected during the execution of a small win game), a special game state is initiated based on the end of the small win game state.

[0098] If "small win 1" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state, the number of times of the special game (round game) is set to 9 times. As a result, 10 rounds will be played with the small win game as the first round game. Then, the special game state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of the special game are played. Also, if "small win 2" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state, the number of times of the special game (round game) is set to 9 times. As a result, 10 rounds will be played with the small win game as the first round game. Then, the special game state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of the special game are played. Details will be described later, but at the end of the special game state, a predetermined number of time-saving times according to the small win pattern is set, and the time-saving state starts. In addition, if the passage of the game ball through a specific area is not detected during the small win game state (if the passage of the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area during the execution of a small win game is not detected), the special game state is not initiated and the normal state is initiated.

[0099] In this embodiment, in the special game of each round (including the small win game), when the opening timer of the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (29 seconds) after the special feature 56 is opened, or when the value of the large prize number counter (not shown) of the main memory 290, which adds a value equivalent to one game ball (e.g., 1) when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, reaches an upper limit value (e.g., 10), the special feature drive device is controlled so that the special feature 56 is closed.

[0100] The special display control means 240 performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special reserve display control process, and a second special reserve display control process based on the results of the special pattern lottery.

[0101] The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read out from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until the variation time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0102] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is determined in advance in correspondence with each of the big win symbols, the time-saving symbols, and the small win symbols. The special display control means 240 stops and displays the first special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a ``jackpot'' or ``C time reduction'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a ``jackpot'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the time reduction pattern determined in the pattern determination process if ``C time reduction'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and displays the result of the special pattern lottery on the first special pattern display unit 76.

[0103] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read out from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 until the variation time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0104] The special display control means 240 stops and displays the second special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a manner corresponding to whether a ``jackpot'' or a ``small hit'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a ``jackpot'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the small hit pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a ``small hit'' has been won in the jackpot determination process, and displays the result of the special pattern lottery on the second special pattern display unit 81.

[0105] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a first special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of the first special random number value stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0106] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a second special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82 depending on the number of second special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0107] In this embodiment, when a "big win" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery), a special game state is started in which a game ball can (easily) enter the big prize opening 50. When a "small win" is won in the second special symbol lottery, a small win game state is started in which a game ball can (easily) enter the big prize opening 50, and when the passage of a specific area by a game ball that has entered the big prize opening 50 in the small win game state is detected, a special game state is started in which a game ball can (easily) enter the big prize opening 50. The player can win many prize balls by having the game ball enter the big prize opening 50. In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the second special symbol lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, a "small win" is not set as a lottery result, and the game transitions to the special game state only when a "big win" is won. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, a "big win" and a "small win" are set as lottery results, and the game transitions to the special game state when a "big win" is won, and the game transitions to the special game state when a "small win" is won and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state.

[0108] In this embodiment, the probability of transition to the special game state is higher when the player wins the chance to draw the second special symbol than when the player wins the chance to draw the first special symbol. As described above, in order to win the chance to draw the second special symbol, it is necessary to win the "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery and to make the game ball enter (enter) the second start hole 49 when the normal role 54 (normal electric role) is in the open state (open state). Also, the ease of entering the game ball into the second start hole 49 (ease of making the ball enter) varies depending on the game state.

[0109] The game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between each game state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (transition condition), as shown in FIG.

[0110] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is a game state that corresponds to the initial state among a plurality of game states. As described above, in the normal state, the probability of winning the "normal hit" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state. In addition, even if the "normal hit" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease of the game ball entering the second start hole 49 is hardly increased. For this reason, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to make the game ball enter the second start hole 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball from the left so that the game ball enters the first start hole 46 in order to get an opportunity to draw the first special symbol than to hit the ball from the right. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which the player should hit the ball from the left.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 8, a transition to a special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in a special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) in a normal state. As shown in FIG. 7(a), if a "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a time-saving state occurs based on the end of the special game state. Also, if a "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a time-saving state occurs based on the end of the special game state. Also, if a "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times (micro-time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a micro-time-saving state occurs based on the end of the special game state.

[0112] Also, as shown in Fig. 7(b), in the normal state, if "C time-saving 1" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the number of time-saving times (1329 times of micro-time-saving times) corresponding to the time-saving pattern is set by the stopped display (confirmation), and a transition is made to the micro-time-saving state. Also, in the normal state, if "C time-saving 2" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 2" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the number of time-saving times (1329 times of time-saving times) corresponding to the time-saving pattern is set by the stopped display (confirmation), and a transition is made to the time-saving state.

[0113] In this embodiment, the first special pattern lottery in the normal state will always result in either a "jackpot" or a "C time-saving" win, and based on the execution of the first special pattern lottery in the normal state, the game will transition to either a micro-time-saving state, a time-saving state, or a special game state.

[0114] The time-saving symbol "C time-saving 2" does not allow a transition to a game state (special game state or small win game state) in which it is easy to get a game ball into the large prize slot 50, and is a time-saving symbol that allows a transition to the time-saving state without passing through the special game state or small win game state. In addition, in a game state other than the normal state, if "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2" is won in the first special symbol lottery and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, the stopped display does not trigger a transition to the time-saving state or the micro-time-saving state. The "not transitioning" includes that the predetermined number of time-saving times (micro-time-saving times) is not reset if the player is already in that game state.

[0115] (Slight time saving state) As described above, in the micro-time-saving state (second specific game state), the probability of winning the "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state (or is the same as in the time-saving state). In addition, even if the "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates so that the ease of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is hardly increased. For this reason, in the micro-time-saving state, at least a part of the functions constituting the time-saving state is activated, and it is slightly easier to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, but it is difficult (impossible) to make the game ball enter the second starting hole 49 even if the player hits it to the right. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the micro-time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit it to the left so that the game ball enters the first starting hole 46 in order to get an opportunity to draw the first special symbol than to hit it to the right. In other words, the slight time-saving state is a gaming state in which left-handed shots should be made.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 8, a transition to a special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in a special pattern drawing (first special pattern drawing) in the micro-time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 7(a), if a "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern drawing, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a micro-time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if a "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern drawing, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a micro-time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if a "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern drawing, the number of time-saving times (micro-time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to a micro-time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state.

[0117] The game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition of the micro-time-saving state is established based on the number of times the first special symbol is displayed in the micro-time-saving state reaching 1329 times, terminates the micro-time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, at the end of the special game state based on winning "Big Win 3" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the number of micro-time-saving times is set in the memory value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 of the main memory 290. Also, when "C time-saving 1" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1", the number of micro-time-saving times is set in the memory value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 in response to the stopped display. In the micro-time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the memory value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 every time the first special symbol is displayed in the variable manner. Then, based on the fact that the stored value of the minute time-saving counter 2916 has reached "0", the minute time-saving end condition is established, the minute time-saving state is ended, and the normal state is started. Note that, in this embodiment, the minute time-saving end condition is established when the stored value of the minute time-saving counter 2916 has been subtracted and reached a predetermined value "0", but this is not limiting, and the minute time-saving end condition may be established when the stored value of the minute time-saving counter 2916 has been added and reached a predetermined value (for example, "1329").

[0118] In the micro-time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", the stopped display does not trigger the micro-time-saving state or the time-saving state to start (set) (a new number of time-saving times is not set). In other words, the game state at the time of the winning is continued. Note that in the micro-time-saving state, if "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2" is won as a result of the first special pattern lottery and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", a new number of time-saving times may be set in response to the stopped display.

[0119] (Time-saving mode) As described above, in the time-saving state (first specific game state), the probability of winning the "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. In addition, when the "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal accessory 54 operates so as to increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting hole 49. For this reason, in the time-saving state, it is easier to make the game ball enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. In other words, it is easier to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball to the right so that the game ball passes through the passing gate 48 in order to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol than to hit the ball to the left. In other words, the time-saving state is a game state in which the player should hit the ball to the right.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 8, the game transitions to a special game state (including via a small win game state) based on whether a "big win" or "small win" is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery) in the time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 7(c), if a "big win 4" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. Also, if a "big win 5" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. Also, if a "small win 1" is won in the special pattern lottery and the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. In addition, if "Small Win 2" is won in the special pattern lottery and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state, the number of time-saving times at the end of the special game state is set to 110, and the game will transition to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state.

[0121] The game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition (predetermined condition) of the time-saving state is established based on the number of times the second special symbol is displayed in a time-saving state reaching 110 times (or 10,000 times), terminates the time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, at the end of the special game state, the number of times the time-saving state is performed according to the type of winning symbol is set in the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915 of the main memory 290, and "1" is subtracted from the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915 every time the second special symbol is displayed in a time-saving state. Then, based on the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaching "0", the time-saving termination condition is established, the time-saving state is terminated, and the normal state is started. In this embodiment, the time-saving end condition is met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but this is not limited thereto, and the time-saving end condition may be met when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "110" (or "10000"). In addition, in the present embodiment, the time-saving counter 2915 and the minute time-saving counter 2916 are provided, but this is not limiting, and they may be managed (controlled) by one counter.

[0122] In the time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", the stop display will not trigger the start (setting) of the micro-time-saving state or the time-saving state (a new number of time-saving times will not be set). In other words, the game state at the time of the win will continue. Note that in the time-saving state, if "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2" is won as a result of the first special pattern lottery and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", the stop display may be configured to trigger the setting of a new number of time-saving times.

[0123] Returning to Fig. 5, the payout control means 270 performs control to (electronically) pay out a number of game balls corresponding to a number of prize balls that is predetermined for each detection signal, based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100, the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, and the detection signal from the count switch 104.

[0124] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 202 to the main control board 200.

[0125] Next, a description will be given of the sub-control board 202. The sub-control board 202 is configured to include a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0126] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 of the sub-memory 302, and controls the performance device to perform effects to liven up or assist the game, such as turning on or blinking the front frame lamp 12 or the lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the LCD display 32, controlling the audio device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object driving device to operate the performance objects.

[0127] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32, and the performance control means 300 draws images in the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 for each frame (1 / 30 seconds) based on this performance image data, and displays the drawn images on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a moving image on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0128] The performance control means 300 executes a performance in which a performance pattern (demo pattern) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying display and stop display of the first special pattern in the first special pattern display section 76, or in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying display and stop display of the second special pattern in the second special pattern display section 81, and is capable of announcing the result of the first special pattern lottery or the second special pattern lottery. In the micro-time-saving state, the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to display a performance pattern corresponding to the varying display and stop display of the first special pattern, and in the time-saving state, causes the liquid crystal display 32 to display a performance pattern corresponding to the varying display and stop display of the second special pattern.

[0129] The display of the performance symbols in the micro-time-saving state will be explained. FIG. 9(a) shows the state before the first special symbol starts to change. In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 are displayed as performance symbols. The left performance symbol 350 is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle performance symbol 352 is displayed in the center of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right performance symbol 354 is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350, the middle performance symbol 352, and the right performance symbol 354 each constitute nine types of performance symbol strings representing the numbers "1" to "9". Each performance symbol representing the numbers "1" to "9" may be composed of a decorative part such as a character in addition to the number.

[0130] As shown in Figure 9(b), the display of the effect pattern (the effect of changing the display) starts based on the start of the display of the first special pattern. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the effect pattern is being displayed (scrolling) at high speed vertically.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 9(c), the performance pattern is displayed in a stopped state based on the stopped display of the first special pattern. The performance pattern is displayed in a manner according to the result of the first special pattern lottery. For example, if a "jackpot" is won in the first special pattern lottery, the performance pattern is displayed in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process. Although not shown, in the time-saving state, the performance pattern is displayed in a changing or stopped state according to the changing and stopped display of the second special pattern, just like in the micro-time-saving state (as shown in FIG. 9(a), FIG. 9(b) and FIG. 9(c)).

[0132] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 executes a performance (hold performance) in which an image showing the first special hold number or the second special hold number is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 based on the first special hold number (first special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) or the second special hold number (second special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) in the main control board 200. As shown in FIG. 9(a) etc., four hold display areas (display areas), a first hold display area 411 to a fourth hold display area 414, are provided below the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32 in correspondence with the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 4 or the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914.

[0133] Fig. 9(a) shows a reserved performance executed in a slight time-saving state, in which a first special random number value is stored in the first special reserved memory area 1 to the first special reserved memory area 3, and a first reserved image 420 (three first reserved images 420) is displayed in the first reserved display area 411 to the third reserved display area 413. Fig. 9(d) shows a reserved performance executed in a time-saving state, in which a second special random number value is stored in the second special reserved memory area 1 to the second special reserved memory area 2, and a second reserved image 422 (two second reserved images 422) is displayed in the first reserved display area 411 to the second reserved display area 412.

[0134] In addition, in the reserved performance, one reserved display area 430 is displayed in the area to the left of the first reserved display area 411 at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the special reserved memory area of ​​the special random number memory means 2914. In the reserved display area 430, when a first special random number value is read out from the first special reserved memory area 1 and stored in the special reserved memory area, a first reserved image 420 is displayed (FIG. 9(b)). In addition, when a second special random number value is read out from the second special reserved memory area 1 and stored in the special reserved memory area, a second reserved image 422 is displayed.

[0135] In this embodiment, in the normal state, if the player wins "jackpot 1" in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery), if the player wins "jackpot 2" in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery), or if the player wins "C time-saving 2" in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery), the game transitions to the time-saving state. In contrast, in the micro-time-saving state, if the player wins "jackpot 1" in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery), or if the player wins "jackpot 2" in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery), the game transitions to the time-saving state. For this reason, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-saving state (a game state advantageous to the player) than the micro-time-saving state, which is advantageous to the player. In other words, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-saving state than the micro-time-saving state because the player can transition to the time-saving state when the player wins "C time-saving 2". In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a RAM clear (a process for initializing at least a part of the area in the RAM of the main memory 290) is executed, the gaming state is set to a normal state. The normal state is a so-called "morning state."

[0136] As described above, the normal state and the minute time-saving state (left-hitting time-saving state) are game states in which left-hitting is more advantageous than right-hitting, and the time-saving state (right-hitting time-saving state) is a game state in which right-hitting is more advantageous than left-hitting. In the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state and the minute time-saving state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is more likely to determine a transition to the special game state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the time-saving state has a higher probability of determining a transition to the special game state than the normal state and the minute time-saving state. In this embodiment, the time-saving state and the minute time-saving state in which it is easier to get the ball into the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state may be called a high base state, and the normal state may be called a low base state.

[0137] The main control board 200 is equipped with a RAM clear switch (not shown) that can be pressed, and when power is turned on (when power is restored after a power outage) with the RAM clear switch pressed, a RAM clear (RAM clear process) is executed, and at least a portion of the information stored in the RAM of the main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is initialized (reset).

[0138] The frame control board 201 includes a frame control memory 203 (see FIG. 5), and the frame control memory 203 includes a second counter 222 (a game ball counter, a ball counter, a game value memory area). The frame control board 201 includes a game ball count clear switch (not shown) that can be pressed down, and when the power is turned on (when power is restored from a power outage) with the game ball count clear switch pressed down, the game ball count is cleared, and the game ball count (the value stored in the second counter 222) stored in the RAM of the frame control memory 203 is initialized (reset). The stored value of the second counter 222 is not initialized by clearing the RAM as described above.

[0139] The frame control board 201 controls (manages) the values ​​(number of game balls, number of balls in possession) stored in the second counter 222. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of balls in possession based on the detection of the launch of a game ball, and increases the number of balls in possession based on the payment of a prize ball. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls in possession based on the detection of a foul ball. When a game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the game machine 1 based on a lending operation, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of balls in possession by the amount of game value to be transferred. When a game value is transferred from the game machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400 based on the operation of the counting button 212, the frame control board 201 also decreases the number of balls in possession by the amount of game value to be transferred. When the game ball count clear is executed, the stored value of the second counter 222 is initialized (reset) to "0".

[0140] (Number of balls) The frame control board 201 controls the game value number display device 211 to display the number of balls held, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of balls held. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display device, and the number of balls held is displayed by the 7-segment display device. In this embodiment, the maximum value of the stored value of the second counter 222 is "990000", and the maximum value of the number of balls held displayed on the game value number display device 211 is also "990000". In other words, the frame control board 201 can set the stored value of the second counter 222 to a maximum of "990000". In this embodiment, "990000" is referred to as the "second value".

[0141] When a predetermined trigger occurs to increase the stored value of the second counter 222, for example, when a decision is made to pay out prize balls (e.g., 15 balls) or a foul ball (e.g., 1 ball) is detected, the frame control board 201 executes an addition possibility determination shown in the flowchart of Figure 10 when adding a predetermined value corresponding to the trigger to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0142] (Determining whether or not to add) The frame control board 201 determines whether or not a value obtained by adding a predetermined value (e.g., 15) to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 does not exceed the second value "990000" (step S1: NO), the frame control board 201 determines that the predetermined value can be added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and adds the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 (step S2).

[0143] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1 that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the frame control board 201 performs the process of the next step S3. Note that "if it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000"" includes the case where the stored value of the second counter 222 is the second value "990000" at the time of making this determination.

[0144] In step S3, the frame control board 201 determines that the predetermined value cannot be added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and does not add the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222. In other words, an opportunity to increase the number of balls held occurs, but the frame control board 201 decides not to increase the number of balls held based on the opportunity. In this embodiment, the frame control board 201 processes the situation as if the opportunity did not occur. For example, even if a decision was made to pay out prize balls (15 balls), the decision is considered not to have been made, and the predetermined value (15) is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222 (in other words, the prize balls are discarded).

[0145] In step S1, when it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the predetermined value is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222 (step S3), thereby simplifying (concise) the processing in the frame control board 201 and reducing the processing load. In other words, when a situation occurs in which the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000", it is possible to deal with the situation with a minimum processing load. Furthermore, since the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program capacity to be stored in the frame control memory 203 can be reduced compared to a case in which a complex processing is provided in preparation for the occurrence of such a situation.

[0146] In this embodiment, for example, if a decision is made to pay out prize balls (e.g., 15 balls), and it is determined that the value obtained by adding a predetermined value (15) to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000", it is determined that the payout has not been decided, and the predetermined value (15) is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0147] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, it is possible to play even when the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the second value "990000", and if prize balls are paid out when the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the second value "990000", the prize balls will be discarded.

[0148] (Modification) In step S1, when it is determined that the value obtained by adding the predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000" (step S1: YES), the frame control board 201 may be configured to add a part of the predetermined value (a portion not exceeding the second value) to the stored value of the second counter 222, and not to add the portion exceeding the second value "990000" to the stored value of the second counter 222. For example, when the stored value of the second counter 222 is "989995" and a decision is made to pay out prize balls (15 balls), the frame control board 201 may be configured to add "5" (the difference from the second value) to the stored value of the second counter 222, and not to add (discard) "10" (the portion exceeding the second value) to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0149] (Rental Restrictions) In this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 403 or the replay button 404 on the dedicated unit 400 is accepted as a loan operation (a game value transfer operation), a predetermined number of game values ​​(for example, 125 pieces) are transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1 based on the loan operation, and the frame control board 201 increases the number of balls held by the amount of game values ​​transferred. When the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", the frame control board 201 does not accept the loan and controls so as not to increase the stored value of the second counter 222. The third value "100000" is a value smaller than the second value "990000".

[0150] The frame control board 201 judges whether the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000" at the time of receiving a lending command based on a lending operation from the dedicated unit 400, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", does not execute the process of adding a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the lending command. In other words, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000", the frame control board 201 performs control so as not to accept lending of game value (executes lending prohibition process of game value).

[0151] In addition, if the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the third value "100000" (for example, "99999") at the time the frame control board 201 receives a lending command based on a lending operation from the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 performs a process of adding a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on the lending command.

[0152] (Complete function activated) The frame control memory 203 of the frame control board 201 is provided with a first counter 221 (MY counter). The frame control board 201 is capable of transmitting information related to the stored value of the first counter 221 to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 manages whether or not to activate the complete function (whether or not to execute a process related to stopping a game) based on the stored value of the first counter 221. When the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a specific value (first value) "95000" or more (when it reaches the first value), the main control board 200 detects a complete function operation error as the complete function operation condition is satisfied (sets the complete function operation error flag to ON). Note that the first value "95000" is smaller than the second value (990000) and smaller than the third value (100000).

[0153] When the main control board 200 detects a complete function operation error, it determines whether the game state is a special game state (whether a specified number of special games have been played). If the main control board 200 determines that the game state is not a special game state, it activates the complete function. On the other hand, if the main control board 200 determines that the game state is a special game state, it does not immediately activate the complete function, but activates the complete function when the special game state ends.

[0154] When the complete function is activated, the gaming machine transitions to a state in which play cannot be performed (a game stop state), and the activation of the complete function is notified. The performance control means 300 can execute a performance (complete function activation performance) that notifies the user that the complete function is in operation based on receiving a command indicating the activation of the complete function from the main control board 200. In this performance, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, a black background, the words "Complete function in operation" (white characters), and the words "The maximum payout limit for one day has been reached. Today's game is over" (white characters) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice saying "The maximum payout limit for one day has been reached. Today's game is over" is output from the speaker 14.

[0155] After power is turned on, the frame control board 201 updates the stored value of the first counter 221 based on the maximum difference in the number of balls of the game value (MY: the increase in the game value from the reference value when the game value has decreased the most after power is turned on). The stored value of the first counter 221 is updated based on the value related to the acquisition of the game value (prize balls) and the value related to the use of the game value.

[0156] When a power outage (power failure) occurs and the power is restored, the stored value of the first counter 221 is reset to "0." In this embodiment, when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000" after the power is turned on, a complete function operation error is detected. The main control board 200 performs a process to cancel the complete function operation error based on the execution of a RAM clear (power failure recovery accompanied by a RAM clear) as a recovery operation (cancellation operation) for the complete function operation error.

[0157] As described above, if the game state is a special game state when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000", the complete function is activated after the special game state ends. Therefore, the stored value of the first counter 221 can be a predetermined value greater than the first value "95000". When the game state is activated after the special game state ends, the complete function is activated after the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000". However, when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000", the main control board 200 executes a process (at least detection of a complete function activation error) for activating the complete function (for stopping the game).

[0158] If the game state is a special game state at the time when the complete function operation error is detected, the performance control means 300 executes a complete function operation notice performance. In this performance, for example, as shown in Fig. 12, the text "After the win ends, the complete function will be activated and the game will be stopped" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and the voice "After the win ends, the complete function will be activated and the game will be stopped" is output from the speaker 14. This allows the player to understand that the complete function will be activated after the win ends without interrupting the win.

[0159] (Specific circumstances) The stored value of the first counter 221 (MY counter) is reset to "0" when the power is restored. On the other hand, the second counter 222 (counter for the number of game balls) is not reset when the power is restored (when the power is restored without clearing the number of game balls). For this reason, when the power is restored and the power is restored repeatedly, a "specific situation" may occur in which the stored value of the first counter 221 is a predetermined value less than the first value "95000" and the stored value of the second counter 222 is a predetermined value less than the second value "990000" (a value that will soon reach the second value, for example, "989990"). In this embodiment, when the payout of prize balls (for example, 15 balls) is determined in the specific situation and the value obtained by adding the predetermined value (15) related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222 exceeds the second value "990000", the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222.

[0160] In this embodiment, in a specific situation, the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222, and therefore the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the first counter 221. Note that the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222, but may be added to the stored value of the first counter 221. Also, as described above, when a part (10) of the predetermined value (15) related to the payout is added to the stored value of the second counter 222 and the part (5) exceeding the second value "990000" is not added to the stored value of the second counter 222, the part (10) of the predetermined value related to the payout may be added to the stored value of the first counter 221.

[0161] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A first counter (MY counter 221), A second counter (a game ball number counter 222); A game value control means (main control board 200, frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A game stop control means (main control board 200) for controlling the stop of a game; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the first counter based on the payout of the game value; The game stop control means executes a process for stopping the game when the stored value of the first counter reaches a first value ("95000"); the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the second counter based on the payment of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the second counter to a second value ("990000") greater than the first value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the second counter reaches a third value ("100000") smaller than the second value; The game value control means, in a specific situation in which the stored value of the first counter is less than the first value and the stored value of the second counter is less than the second value, when a payout of game value occurs and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter is greater than the second value, does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter.

[0162] This simplifies the processing required in the event of a special situation, thereby reducing the processing load. In addition, because the processing is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program capacity can be reduced compared to when complex processing is provided for special situations.

[0163] In this embodiment, as described above, the game state transitions to a small win game state based on winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and the small win game state ends when a predetermined number of small win games (one in this embodiment) are played. In addition, in the small win game, the special role 56 is in an open state that allows the game ball to enter the large winning hole 50, and the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, in the small win game, the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that the game ball that entered the large winning hole 50 during the execution of the small win game can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "small win 1" or "small win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, the game ball can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area in the small win game state. Then, when the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state (when the passage of the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is detected during the execution of a small win game), a special game state is initiated based on the end of the small win game state.

[0164] When the main control board 200 determines that the activation conditions for the complete function are met during a small win game (the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000") and detects the passage of the game ball through a specific area, it waits for the special game state to end, and activates the complete function based on the end of the special game state. Note that when it is determined that the activation conditions for the complete function are met during a small win game, but the passage of the game ball through a specific area is not detected, the special game state is not started. In this case, the main control board 200 activates the complete function without waiting for the end of the special game state.

[0165] The main control board 200 transmits a prize ball command (payout command) to the frame control board 201 to instruct the payout of prize balls based on the decision to pay out prize balls. In addition, the dedicated unit 400 transmits a lending command (a command to instruct the transfer of a predetermined number of game values) to the frame control board 201 based on the input of a lending operation. Here, a situation in which the stored value of the second counter 222 is a value less than the third value "100000" (assumed to be "99999") and the timing at which the frame control board 201 receives the prize ball command and the timing at which the frame control board 201 receives the lending command are the same (identical timing) is defined as a "special situation."

[0166] In the above-mentioned special situation, a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on receipt of a prize ball command is performed first, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes equal to or greater than the third value "100000", a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on receipt of a loan command is not executed. On the other hand, in the above-mentioned special situation, a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on receipt of a loan command is first performed, and if the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes equal to or greater than the third value "100000", a process of adding a predetermined value to the stored value of the second counter 222 based on receipt of a prize ball command is executed.

[0167] In this embodiment, as described above, when the power is turned on (when power is restored from a power outage) while the game ball count clear switch is pressed, the game ball count is cleared. Based on receiving a command from the main control board 200 indicating that the game ball count has been cleared, the performance control means 300 can execute a performance that notifies the user that the game ball count has been cleared, as shown in FIG. 13. In this performance, a black background and the words "The game balls have been cleared" (white characters) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice saying "The game balls have been cleared" is output from the speaker 14 along with a warning sound. In addition to the words "The game balls have been cleared", a predetermined code corresponding to the game ball count being cleared may be displayed.

[0168] In this embodiment, even if an error (including a setting change) is detected in the main control board 200 after the power failure accompanied by the game ball count clear is restored and communication between the main control board 200 and the frame control board 201 is established, or even if communication between the gaming machine (frame control board 201) and the dedicated unit 400 is not possible (not established) (lending device unconnection error) is detected, a notification that the game ball count clear has been executed is executed with priority. In other words, the notification related to the game ball count clear is set to have a high priority. Note that "the notification that the game ball count clear has been executed with priority" is not limited to a notification of only the execution of the game ball count clear, but may be a notification of at least the execution of the game ball count clear, and in addition to the notification of the execution of the game ball count clear, other notifications (notification of errors) may be executed in parallel.

[0169] (Counting warning) As described above, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000", the frame control board 201 controls so as not to accept the lending of the game value (executes the lending prohibition process of the game value). In addition, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000", the main control board 200 transmits a counting warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the counting warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute the counting warning performance shown in FIG. 14. In this performance, the text "Please perform counting" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The counting warning performance ends when the counting is performed and the stored value of the second counter 222 falls below the third value "100000". While the counting warning performance is being executed, the lending prohibition process of the game value is executed, and lending of the game value cannot be performed.

[0170] The performance control means 300 can execute a performance (complete function operation performance) that notifies the operation of the complete function, as shown in Fig. 11, based on receiving a command indicating the operation of the complete function from the main control board 200. Here, a case where the execution condition of the counting warning performance and the execution condition of the complete function operation performance are met simultaneously (both) (for example, when the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000" and the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches the first value "95000"), or when the execution condition of the complete function operation performance is met during the execution of the counting warning performance, will be described.

[0171] In this embodiment, the priority of the notification (display) related to the operation of the complete function is set higher than the priority of the notification (display) related to the counting warning. Therefore, when the complete function operation presentation is executed, the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning presentation is not displayed. At this time, in terms of presentation, the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning presentation is not displayed, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the processing to prohibit lending of the game value based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000". In other words, the text "Please perform counting" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of the game value is not accepted continues. It should be noted that the loan of the gaming value can be accepted even if the complete function is in operation, if the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the third value "100000". Furthermore, the priority of the notification (initialization notification screen) related to the initialization may be set higher than the priority of the notification (display) related to the count warning. When the power is turned on and the stored value of the second counter 222 has reached the third value "100000", and an initialization process such as a setting change is performed, the initialization notification screen is displayed preferentially, and the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed. At this time, the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed in terms of the effect, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the lending prohibition process of the game value based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is the third value "100000" or more. In other words, the text "Please perform counting" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of the game value is not accepted continues. Note that, although the lending prohibition process is being executed, it is possible to execute the counting process of the game value. In addition, the priority of a notification (error notification screen) regarding a specific error (for example, an error related to fraud such as an illegal winning error or a magnetic error) may be set higher than the priority of a notification (display) regarding a counting warning. When the stored value of the second counter 222 reaches the third value "100000" and an error related to fraud is detected, the error notification screen related to fraud is displayed preferentially, and the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed. At this time, the text "Please perform counting" related to the counting warning effect is not displayed in terms of the effect, but the frame control board 201 continues to execute the lending prohibition process of the game value based on the fact that the stored value of the second counter 222 is the third value "100000" or more. In other words, the text "Please perform counting" is not displayed, but the state in which lending of the game value is not accepted continues. Note that although the lending prohibition process is being executed, it is possible to execute the counting process of the game value. In this embodiment, if a first event, that is, the stored value of the second counter 222 reaching a predetermined value, and a second event different from the first event (for example, the activation of the complete function, a setting change process, an illegal winning error, a magnetic error, etc.), occur simultaneously, a notification related to the second event is executed in priority over a notification related to the first event, but even in that case, the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0172] The presentation control means 300 can output a counting sound (for example, a sound effect such as "ringing") from the speaker 14 based on the counting button 212 being pressed (as the counting process is executed). The counting sound (sound related to counting) is not limited to one output during the execution of the counting process, but may be a sound (a line) output when the counting process ends (when the number of balls held reaches "0"). The presentation control means 300 can also output presentation sounds (such as background music or predetermined sound effects according to the game status) from the speaker 14. When the counting button 212 is pressed while a sound effect is being output, the performance control means 300 outputs the counting sound and reduces the volume of the sound effect being output. Note that "reducing the volume" includes setting the volume to "0" (mute). By outputting the counting sound and reducing the volume of the sound effect, the counting sound becomes easier for the player to recognize (hear).

[0173] (Complete function operation warning) When the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "90000" smaller than the first value "95000", the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute the complete function activation warning performance shown in FIG. 15. In this performance, the text "Approximately 5000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice (activation warning voice) "Approximately 5000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14. In this embodiment, even while the complete function activation warning performance is being executed, the counting button 212 can be pressed to perform counting. When the counting button 212 is pressed while the activation warning voice is being output, the performance control means 300 outputs the counting sound and does not reduce the volume of the activation warning voice being output. The activation warning sound notifies the player in advance of the activation of the complete function, and since the notification has a high priority, the volume of the activation warning sound is not reduced, unlike the performance sounds.

[0174] When the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "91000" smaller than the first value "95000", the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute a complete function activation warning performance, in which the text "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 and a voice (activation warning voice) "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14. In addition, when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches a predetermined value "92000" smaller than the first value "95000", the main control board 200 transmits an activation warning command to the sub-control board 202. Based on receiving the activation warning command, the performance control means 300 can execute a complete function activation warning performance, in which the words "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" are displayed on the LCD display 32 and a voice (activation warning voice) stating "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" is output from the speaker 14.

[0175] In this way, after the stored value of the first counter 221 exceeds "90000", the complete function activation warning effect is executed (updated) each time the thousands digit of the stored value is incremented. When the stored value of the first counter 221 is "90000" or more, the characters related to the complete function activation warning effect (FIG. 15) are continuously displayed, and the characters are updated each time the thousands digit of the stored value of the first counter 221 is incremented. For example, when the stored value of the first counter 221 is between "91000" and "91999", the characters "Approximately 4000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" are displayed, and when the stored value of the first counter 221 reaches "92000", the characters "Approximately 3000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" are displayed.

[0176] (error) The main control board 200 (frame control board 201) can detect an error (abnormality) based on the establishment of an error detection condition, and when an error is detected, it transmits an error command indicating that the error has been detected to the sub-control board 202. The performance control means 300 can execute a performance to notify the occurrence of the error based on receiving the error command. FIG. 16 shows a case where a performance to notify the occurrence of a door opening error is executed based on the inner frame 7 (front frame 10) being in an open state and the detection of a door opening error. In this performance, a single-color (e.g., black) background and the text "The door is open" are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and a voice saying "The door is open" is output from the speaker 14 together with a warning sound. Although not shown in the figure, the text "Please call an attendant" may be displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and the voice saying "Please call an attendant" may be output from the speaker 14.

[0177] In this embodiment, even while a performance notifying the occurrence of a predetermined error is being executed, it is possible to press the counting button 212 and perform counting. When the counting button 212 is pressed while a sound (error sound) related to the notification of the error is being output, the performance control means 300 outputs the counting sound and does not reduce the volume of the error sound being output. The error sound notifies the staff of the gaming facility that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine, and since the notification has a high priority, the volume is not reduced, unlike the performance sound.

[0178] As shown in FIG. 1, the front frame 10 is provided with a light amount adjustment button 213, a volume adjustment button 214, and a cross key 215. The player can adjust the volume (volume) of the sound output from the speaker 14 by pressing the volume adjustment button 214. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the sounds output from the speaker 14 include sounds output at a volume (user volume) based on the setting by the volume adjustment button 214, and sounds output at a volume (relatively louder than a predetermined volume) that is preset without being based on the setting by the volume adjustment button 214. The counting sound, the operation warning sound (for example, there are about 5000 shots left until the complete function is activated), and the error sound are sounds output at a volume that is preset without being based on the setting by the volume adjustment button 214.

[0179] By pressing the volume adjustment button 214 (or the cross key 215 if the volume adjustment button 214 is not provided) during play, the player can display a volume adjustment screen on the liquid crystal display 32, and by pressing the volume adjustment button 214 (for example, the upper or lower side), adjust the volume of the sound output from the speaker 14. At this time, the sound (audio) corresponding to the pressing is output at the (current) set volume (changed volume).

[0180] The specified state is a state in which a power outage occurs, the power is turned on, the power recovery process is executed in the gaming machine (main control board 200, frame control board 201 and sub-control board 202) to recover from the power outage (recovery state), and it is detected that the gaming machine and the dedicated unit 400 are not connected (rental device unconnected error). In the predetermined state, a display (e.g., a black background and white characters) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 to notify (suggest) that the dedicated unit 400 is in an unconnected state. Even if the volume adjustment button 214 is pressed in the predetermined state, the volume adjustment screen is not displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. However, when the volume adjustment button 214 is pressed in the predetermined state, the volume of the sound output from the speaker 14 is changed based on the pressing. Specifically, the sound (audio) corresponding to the pressing is output at the (current) set volume (changed volume). In this embodiment, after the power is restored, a display is displayed to notify (suggest) that the dedicated unit 400 is in an unconnected state, and even if the volume adjustment screen is not displayed, the volume can be changed based on the operation of the volume adjustment button 214.

[0181] The performance control means 300 can execute a demo performance when the state where the player is not playing continues for a predetermined time (i.e., at a predetermined timing after the end of the game). For example, when the performance control means 300 determines that no operation is performed on a predetermined operation means of the gaming machine for a certain time (e.g., one minute) (a certain time has passed without any operation on a predetermined operation means of the gaming machine), it determines that the demo performance execution condition is established and executes the demo performance. When the demo performance is executed, a demo image related to the demo performance is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The demo image is, for example, a movie (video) related to the gaming machine, such as a story explanation of a story that unfolds in the gaming machine or an explanation (introduction) of a character. In this embodiment, the demo image is a movie of about 60 seconds, and is a video including an introduction of a character. When a series (one time) of demo performances ends, the demo performance is executed again from the beginning (looped).

[0182] In this embodiment, during the execution of the demo performance (as the demo performance), the logo display, the supplementary explanation display, and the addiction prevention display are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The logo display is a logo display indicating that the gaming machine is a managed gaming machine. The supplementary explanation display is a warning display regarding the managed gaming machine, for example, a display including the text "Please be careful not to forget to count (CREDIT settlement) and not to forget to take out your card or have it stolen." The addiction prevention display is a warning display for the player, for example, a display including the text "Please be careful not to get addicted. Pachinko and pachislot are games to be enjoyed in moderation." The logo display, the supplementary explanation display, and the addiction prevention display may be displayed at the same time for the same period, or may be displayed in sequence (so that there is no period during which they are displayed simultaneously). In addition, two displays (for example, the logo display and the supplementary explanation display) may be displayed at the same time for the same period, and the addiction prevention display may be displayed after the display ends.

[0183] As described above, the performance control means 300 executes the complete function activation warning performance (FIG. 15) that displays the text "Approximately 5000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated" based on receiving a predetermined command (activation warning command), and executes the demo performance if the demo performance execution condition is met while the performance is being executed. In this embodiment, even if the demo performance is started, the text display related to the complete function activation warning performance continues to be displayed. If the text display is not displayed when the demo performance starts, a new player may start playing without realizing that the complete function is about to be activated, and may become dissatisfied after starting the game. According to this embodiment, the text display is displayed even during the execution of the demo performance, and the player is notified that the complete function is about to be activated, so that the possibility of the player becoming dissatisfied can be reduced.

[0184] In this embodiment, while the demo performance is being performed, the logo display, the supplementary explanation display, and the addiction prevention display are displayed, but the text display related to the complete function activation warning performance (for example, "Approximately 5000 shots remaining until the complete function is activated") is displayed in a position that does not overlap with these displays. In other words, when the logo display, the supplementary explanation display, or the addiction prevention display is displayed, the text display is hidden so that the visibility of the text display is not reduced. This makes it possible for the text display to be easily recognized by the player. Note that the text display may be temporarily hidden due to the display of another display during the execution of the demo performance.

[0185] In addition, the gaming machine of the present embodiment may be configured so that the settings (at least the settings related to the winning probability of the special symbol lottery) can be changed. Here, the procedure for changing the settings will be described. (1) Turn off the power to the gaming machine. (2) Insert the door key into the key cylinder and open the door (inner frame 7 and front frame 10). (3) Insert a setting key into a setting key switch (not shown) on the main control board 200 and rotate the setting key clockwise. (4) While pressing the RAM clear switch on the main control board 200, the power supply of the gaming machine is turned ON. This puts the gaming machine into a state in which the setting values ​​can be changed (setting change state). At this time, a RAM clear (RAM clear process) is executed, and at least a part of the information stored in the RAM of the main memory 290 of the main control board 200 is initialized (reset). (5) In the setting change state, press the RAM clear switch to change the setting value. The setting value changes each time the RAM clear switch is pressed, and one of six setting values ​​can be set, for example. (6) Rotate the setting key counterclockwise to return it to its original position (to confirm the setting value). (7) Remove the setting key from the setting key switch and close the door.

[0186] As described above, the presentation control means 300 can execute the counting warning presentation shown in FIG. 14 when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than the third value (specific value) "100000". In this presentation, the text "Please perform counting" is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. Also, in this presentation, a voice "Please perform counting" may be output from the speaker 14. Hereinafter, the text "Please perform counting" is referred to as the "counting warning display", and the voice "Please perform counting" is referred to as the "counting warning voice". The counting warning presentation is a presentation that prompts the player to count (operate the counting button 212). The counting warning presentation ends when counting is performed and the stored value of the second counter 222 becomes less than the third value "100000". While the counting warning presentation is being performed, a process for prohibiting lending of the game value is executed, and lending of the game value is not allowed.

[0187] Here, a case where a power outage occurs in a state (situation) in which a count warning effect is being executed based on the stored value of the second counter 222 being equal to or greater than the third value "100000" will be described.

[0188] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the power is turned on (when the power is restored from a power outage), a device check is executed. The device check is a check of the operation of each performance device. The performance control means 300 executes a device check based on the restoration from the power outage, and causes each performance device to execute a performance in a predetermined pattern (operates each performance device). Here, the device check related to the speaker 14 will be described. It is assumed that the gaming machine of this embodiment has four speakers as the speaker 14, that is, an upper left speaker, an upper right speaker, a lower right speaker, and a lower left speaker. The performance control means 300 outputs a predetermined sound (specific sound) in turn for each speaker based on the start of the device check. For example, first, the sound "upper left" is output from the upper left speaker, then the sound "upper right" is output from the upper right speaker, then the sound "lower right" is output from the lower right speaker, and then the sound "lower left" is output from the lower left speaker. Then, a cycle of upper left output → upper right output → lower right output → lower left output is repeatedly executed. The performance control means 300 ends the device check, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the device check.

[0189] In this embodiment, when power is restored after a power outage, a sound (specific sound) related to a device check is output; however, the specific sound output upon restoration of power after a power outage is not limited to this and may be, for example, a specified piece of music (BGM).

[0190] Whether the power outage recovery involves clearing the RAM or not, the stored value of the second counter 222 is not reset. As described above, the stored value of the second counter 222 is initialized when the number of game balls is cleared.

[0191] Upon recovery from power interruption, the performance control means 300 outputs a specific sound. Furthermore, upon receiving information indicating that power has been restored from power interruption and that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", the performance control means 300 executes a part of the counting warning performance. Specifically, the counting warning display is displayed, but the counting warning sound is not output. In other words, the output of the specific sound is given priority over the output of the counting warning sound.

[0192] When the counting button 212 is operated (pressed), the frame control board 201 executes a counting process and transfers (returns) the game value to the dedicated unit 400. Based on the operation of the counting button 212, the performance control means 300 outputs a sound (counting sound: for example, a ringing sound) that notifies the execution of the counting process.

[0193] In this embodiment, if the counting button 212 is pressed while a specific sound is being output after power recovery, counting is executed based on that, and the counting sound is output. By outputting the counting sound even while a specific sound is being output, it becomes easier to recognize that the counting button 212 has been pressed (that counting has been executed). The performance control means 300 is capable of outputting sounds to be played on each track, and the specific sound and the counting sound are each played on a different track.

[0194] As described above, the main control board 200 executes the first special symbol lottery and executes the payout of prize balls based on the detection of the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 46 (or based on the reserved first special random number value). In addition, the main control board 200 executes the payout of prize balls based on the entry of a game ball into the general winning hole 47 (upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c). Based on receiving information indicating that a game ball has entered the starting hole (general winning hole) from the main control board 200, the performance control means 300 outputs a winning sound as a performance sound related to the progress of the game. Based on receiving information indicating that the variable display of the first special symbol related to the first special symbol lottery has started from the main control board 200, the performance control means 300 executes the variable display performance of the performance symbol on the liquid crystal display 32 and outputs a variable sound as a performance sound related to the progress of the game.

[0195] When the performance control means 300 receives information indicating that a game ball has entered the starting port (general winning port) or information indicating that the variable display of the first special symbol related to the first special symbol lottery has started during the output of the specific sound after the power failure recovery from the main control board 200, the performance control means 300 does not output the performance sound (winning sound, variable sound) related to the progress of the game based on the reception of such information. In other words, in a situation where the specific sound is being output, the performance sound related to the progress of the game is not output. In other words, the output of the specific sound is prioritized over the output of the performance sound related to the progress of the game. Note that, during the output of the specific sound after the power failure recovery, if the first special symbol becomes variable and the variable display of the first special symbol starts, the variable sound is not output, but the variable display of the performance symbol is executed on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0196] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, there are three states when power is restored after a power outage: a first state, a second state, and a third state.

[0197] (First state: No winning possible, no change has started) The gaming machine of this embodiment is equipped with a status display unit 70 (main display) shown in FIG. 4. The status display unit 70 is not lit (not lit) when the power is cut off. When the power is restored from the power cut, the main control board 200, the sub-control board 202, and the frame control board 201 execute a restoration process. Here, the state of the gaming machine from when the power is turned on until the status display unit 70, which was not lit, is lit, is referred to as the "first state". In the first state, the status display unit 70 is not lit, but the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) displays characters (for example, "Now Loading") indicating that restoration is in progress on the liquid crystal display 32. The first state can be said to be a state in which the main control board 200 has not yet been restored. In the first state, the first start hole switch 100, which detects a gaming ball that has entered the first start hole 46, is in the OFF state.

[0198] (Second state: Possible to win, but fluctuation has not yet started) The state following the first state, in which the state display unit 70 is lit but the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol) is not executed (started), is referred to as the "second state." The second state can be said to be a state in which the main control board 200 is partially restored (a state in the middle of restoration). In the second state, the first start hole switch 100, which detects a gaming ball that has entered the first start hole 46, is in the ON state. In the second state, when a gaming ball enters the first start hole 46, a first special random number value based on the entry is stored (reserved) in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0199] In the second state, the performance control means 300 can execute a hold performance (such as FIG. 9(a)) that displays the first hold image 420 on the liquid crystal display 32 based on receiving information that the first special random number value is stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914. In other words, the hold performance is executed from the second state after the power is restored. Note that, since the variable display of the first special symbol is not executed in the second state, the variable display performance of the performance symbol is not executed on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0200] In the second state, based on receiving information indicating that the stored value of the second counter 222 is equal to or greater than the third value "100000", the performance control means 300 executes a counting warning performance, causes a counting warning display (FIG. 14) to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and causes a counting warning sound to be output from the speaker 14. In other words, the counting warning performance is executed from the second state after power is restored (triggered by entering the second state).

[0201] If a door open error is detected after power is restored, in the second state, the performance control means 300 can execute a performance to notify the occurrence of the error based on receiving information indicating the detection of the error. In other words, from the second state after power is restored (triggered by entering the second state), a performance to notify the occurrence of a door open error is executed, and a door open warning sound (for example, a sound saying "The door is open") is output. Note that the counting warning sound and the door open warning sound can be output simultaneously.

[0202] (Third state: Possible to win, starting to fluctuate) The state after (next to) the second state, in which the state display unit 70 is lit and the variable display of the special pattern (first special pattern) can be started (can be started), is called the "third state". The third state can be said to be a state in which the main control board 200 is fully restored (a state in which the restoration is completed). In the third state, the first start port switch 100 that detects the game ball that has entered the first start port 46 is in the ON state. In the third state, the first special pattern lottery is executed based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100 (or based on the reserved first special random number value). In the third state, the performance control means 300 can execute the variable display performance of the performance pattern based on receiving information indicating that the variable display of the first special pattern has been executed. In other words, the variable display performance of the performance pattern can be executed from the third state after the power failure is restored (triggered by the third state).

[0203] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output.

[0204] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, when power is interrupted while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power interruption, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power interruption occurs, it is possible to encourage the player to continue counting across the power interruption. In other words, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the player does not perform counting because the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power interruption. It is also possible to prevent the player from not performing counting and the stored value of the specific counter from becoming excessively large.

[0205] In addition, the specific sound is output when the power is restored from a power outage, and while the specific sound is being output, the sound effect related to the progress of the game is not output, but when the counting operation means is operated, the sound effect related to counting is output. This makes it easier for players to recognize that counting has been performed. In addition, the sound effect related to counting can be prevented from being drowned out by the sound effect related to the progress of the game.

[0206] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, The performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, displays the counting warning display in response to the main control means entering the second state.

[0207] When the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. Furthermore, when power is interrupted while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, the counting warning display is displayed. The counting warning display does not end due to a power interruption, and the counting warning display is displayed again after the power is restored. Therefore, even if a power interruption occurs, it is possible to encourage the player to continue counting across the power interruption. In other words, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the player does not perform counting because the counting warning display is no longer displayed after a power interruption. It is also possible to prevent the player from not performing counting and the stored value of the specific counter from becoming excessively large.

[0208] In addition, if a power interruption occurs while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed from the second state before the main control means enters the third state after power is restored, so that the player can be prompted to count more quickly after power is restored.

[0209] As described above, when no operation or the like is performed on a predetermined operation means of the gaming machine for a predetermined time (for example, one minute) (when no game is played for a predetermined time), the performance control means 300 executes a demo performance as if the demo performance execution condition (predetermined condition) is established, and displays a demo image on the liquid crystal display 32. When the performance control means 300 has displayed the counting warning display based on the storage value of the second counter 222 being equal to or greater than the third value "100000", and the demo performance execution condition is established, the performance control means 300 continues to display the counting warning display (without hiding it) and further displays the demo image. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display is set higher than the display priority of the demo image (arranged in a higher layer). The performance control means 300 can also display a menu image (menu screen) based on the operation of a predetermined operation means (for example, the cross key 215). When the predetermined operation means is operated while the counting warning display is displayed, the performance control means 300 continues to display the counting warning display and displays the menu image. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display is set higher than the display priority of the menu image (it is arranged in a higher layer). Note that the counting warning display may be switched off when the menu image starts to be displayed. In other words, the display priority of the counting warning display may be set lower than the display priority of the menu image. Furthermore, in the case where the counting warning display is continued and a demo image is also displayed, the logo display, the supplementary explanation display, and the addiction prevention display are displayed during the execution of the demo performance, but the counting warning display is displayed in a position that does not overlap with all or at least one of these displays. In other words, the counting warning display is hidden as the logo display, the supplementary explanation display, or the addiction prevention display is displayed, so that the visibility of the counting warning display is not reduced.

[0210] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; When a predetermined condition is met based on the fact that a game has not been played for a predetermined period of time, a demo image is displayed; When the predetermined condition is satisfied while the counting warning display is being displayed, the counting warning display is continued to be displayed and the demo image is displayed; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output.

[0211] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, the presentation control means displays a counting warning display to prompt the player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value, displays a demo image when a predetermined condition is met based on no play being performed for a predetermined time, and continues to display the counting warning display and displays the demo image when the predetermined condition is met while the counting warning display is being displayed; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, The performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, displays the counting warning display in response to the main control means entering the second state.

[0212] Even when the display of the demo image is started based on the establishment of the predetermined condition, the counting warning display continues to be displayed. The counting warning display is configured not to be hidden in conjunction with the display of the demo image. Therefore, it is possible to prompt the player to count even while the demo image is being displayed.

[0213] The main control board 200 transitions the gaming machine to a state where it is not possible to play (non-playable state) based on the detection that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected. The frame control board 201 can display the number of balls held (the value stored in the second counter 222) on the gaming value number display device 211 even in the non-playable state.

[0214] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for play. The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0215] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; and a game value number display means (game value number display device 211) capable of displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for play. the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, the performance control means cuts off power while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, causes the main control means to enter the second state and causes the count warning display to be displayed; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

[0216] When communication with the specific unit is not connected, the state transitions to a state where play is not possible, but even in that case, the stored value is displayed on the game value number display means, so that the player can know the number of game values ​​available for play even in the state where play is not possible.

[0217] The performance control means 300 can display a demo image based on the fact that a game has not been played for a predetermined time. Also, it can display a menu image based on the fact that a predetermined operation means (e.g., the cross key 215) is operated. When a trigger related to the progress of a game occurs while a demo image or a menu image is being displayed, for example, when an operation to launch a game medium into a game area is performed (the grip unit 20 is rotated) or when a game ball enters (wins) a predetermined area (e.g., the first starting hole 46) of the game board 6, the demo image or the menu image is not displayed. On the other hand, when a counting operation means (the counting button 212) is operated while a demo image or a menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not not displayed (the display continues).

[0218] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; A demo image may be displayed based on a predetermined period of inactivity. A menu image can be displayed based on the operation of a predetermined operation means, When a trigger related to the progress of a game occurs while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not displayed; When the counting operation means is operated while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not hidden.

[0219] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance, the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, the performance control means cuts off power while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, causes the main control means to enter the second state and causes the count warning display to be displayed; A demo image may be displayed based on a predetermined period of inactivity. A menu image can be displayed based on the operation of a predetermined operation means, When a trigger related to the progress of a game occurs while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not displayed; When the counting operation means is operated while the demo image or the menu image is being displayed, the demo image or the menu image is not hidden.

[0220] The demo image or menu image is not displayed when a trigger related to the progress of the game occurs, but is not displayed when the counting operation means is operated. In other words, when the counting operation means that is frequently operated at the end of a game is operated, the display of the demo image or menu image does not end. Therefore, the player can continue to see the demo image or menu image even when counting is performed.

[0221] The presentation control means 300 can execute the counting warning presentation shown in Fig. 14 when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than the third value (specific value, first specific value) "100000". In addition, the frame control board 201 (play value control means) can update the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) based on the payout of the play value, and can set the stored value of the second counter 222 to the second value (second specific value) (990000), and the lending control means (frame control board 201) controls so as not to accept lending of the play value when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) reaches a third value (third specific value) (100000) smaller than the second value. Furthermore, in a situation where the stored value of the second counter 222 is less than the second value, if a payout of game value occurs and the value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222 is greater than the second value, the frame control board 201 (game value control means) does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the second counter 222. Note that, in this embodiment, the first specific value and the third specific value are equal, but this is not limiting and the two may be different.

[0222] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value; The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a first specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, A power interruption is performed while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, and when the power interruption is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the specific counter based on a payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the specific counter to a second specific value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches a third specific value smaller than the second specific value; When a payout of game value occurs in a situation where the stored value of the specific counter is less than the second specific value, and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter.

[0223] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means (frame control board 201) for controlling game values; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value; the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a first specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, The performance control means cuts off power while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the first specific value, displays the count warning display in response to the main control means entering the second state. the game value control means is capable of updating the stored value of the specific counter based on a payout of the game value, and is capable of setting the stored value of the specific counter to a second specific value; the lending control means controls so as not to accept lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches a third specific value smaller than the second specific value; When a payout of game value occurs in a situation where the stored value of the specific counter is less than the second specific value, and a value obtained by adding a predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the game value control means does not add the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter.

[0224] When the value obtained by adding the predetermined value related to the payout to the stored value of the specific counter is greater than the second specific value, the predetermined value related to the payout is not added to the stored value of the specific counter, thereby simplifying the process and reducing the processing load. In addition, since the process is simple, the processing speed can be increased and the program capacity can be reduced compared to the case where a complex process is provided.

[0225] Based on the detection that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected, the performance control means 300 displays a specific display (rental device not connected error) indicating that communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected on the liquid crystal display 32. Furthermore, when the volume adjustment button 214 is operated while the specific display is being displayed, the performance control means 300 does not display an image related to volume adjustment (volume adjustment image), but executes a change in volume based on the operation. Note that, when the stored value of the second counter 222 (specific counter) is equal to or greater than the specific value (100000) and communication with the dedicated unit 400 is not connected, the performance control means 300 may be configured to display a specific display (display related to a notification of a rental device not connected error) together with the count warning display.

[0226] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A volume adjustment means (volume adjustment button 214) capable of adjusting the volume is provided, The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; When it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected, a specific display indicating that communication with the specific unit is not connected is displayed; When the volume adjustment means is operated while the specific display is being displayed, an image relating to the volume adjustment is not displayed, but the volume is changed based on the operation.

[0227] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit (dedicated unit 400) capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A volume adjustment means (volume adjustment button 214) capable of adjusting the volume is provided, the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, The performance control means includes: When the power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the main control means causes the count warning display to be displayed in response to the second state being entered; When it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected, a specific display indicating that communication with the specific unit is not connected is displayed; When the volume adjustment means is operated while the specific display is being displayed, an image relating to the volume adjustment is not displayed, but the volume is changed based on the operation.

[0228] When the specific display is displayed, an image related to volume adjustment is not displayed, but the volume can be changed. Since the volume cannot be changed while the specific display is displayed, the possibility of the player becoming dissatisfied can be reduced.

[0229] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value; The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the count warning display is displayed; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; the lending control means executes a lending prohibition process for prohibiting lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value; When a first event, in which the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value, and a second event different from the first event occur simultaneously, the notification related to the second event is executed in priority over the count warning display related to the first event, but the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0230] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A main control means (main control board 200) for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means (counting button 212) capable of performing counting; A status display unit (status display unit 70) that is lit up and indicates various states of the gaming machine; A specific counter (second counter 222) whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means (performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of the performance; A lending control means (frame control board 201) for controlling the acceptance of lending of game value; the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state display unit is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special pattern can be started, The performance control means includes: When the power is cut off while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, and when the power is restored and the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value, the main control means causes the count warning display to be displayed in response to the second state being entered; the lending control means executes a lending prohibition process for prohibiting lending of gaming value when the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value; When a first event, in which the stored value of the specific counter reaches the specific value, and a second event different from the first event occur simultaneously, the notification related to the second event is executed in priority over the count warning display related to the first event, but the lending prohibition process is executed.

[0231] Even if the count warning display becomes unrecognizable, the lending prohibition process continues to be executed, so that the stored value of the specific counter can be prevented from becoming excessively large.

[0232] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, various controls are not limited to those of the above-mentioned embodiment. Furthermore, the present invention allows free combinations, modifications of each component, or omission of components within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, that is, pachinko gaming machines in which a player can physically touch a gaming ball and the gaming ball is paid out to a receiving tray based on the entry of the gaming ball into a predetermined winning hole. [Explanation of symbols]

[0233] 70 Status display section 200 Main control board 201 Frame control board (game value control means) 211 Game value number display device (game value number display means) 212 Counting button 222 Second counter (specific counter) 300 Production control means 400 Special Unit (Specific Unit)

Claims

1. A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means capable of performing counting; A specific counter whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means for controlling a game value; a game value number display means for displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for a game; The performance control means includes: displaying a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; A specific sound is output based on the recovery from a power outage, cutting off power while the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and displaying the count warning display when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value after recovery from the power cut; During the output of the specific sound, no effect sound relating to the progress of the game is output, but when the counting operation means is operated, a sound relating to counting is output; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming machine, wherein the gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

2. A gaming machine capable of communicating with a specific unit capable of executing control related to lending of gaming value, A main control means for controlling various states of the gaming machine; A counting operation means capable of performing counting; A status display unit that can be turned on and indicates various statuses of the gaming machine; A specific counter whose stored value is updated based on the award of a game value; A performance control means for controlling the execution of the performance; A game value control means for controlling a game value; a game value number display means for displaying the stored value and notifying the number of game values ​​available for a game; the presentation control means displays a count warning display to prompt a player to count based on the stored value of the specific counter being equal to or greater than a specific value; The main control means recovers from a power interruption by passing through each state in the order of a first state, a second state, and a third state, The first state is a state in which the state indicator is not lit, The second state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and the variable display of the special symbol is not started, The third state is a state in which the state display unit is lit and a variable display of a special pattern can be started, the performance control means cuts off power when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than a specific value, and when the stored value of the specific counter is equal to or greater than the specific value after recovery from the power cut, causes the main control means to enter the second state and display the count warning display; The main control means causes the device to transition to a game unavailable state based on the detection that communication with the specific unit is not connected, The gaming machine, wherein the gaming value control means causes the gaming value number display means to display the stored value even when it is detected that communication with the specific unit is not connected.

Images