Game machine

Abstract

To suitably display a reservation symbol when the reservation symbol is displayed due to a winning to a start port.SOLUTION: When a reservation memory is generated and a reservation symbol is displayed, one of multiple reservation generation operations is executed. However, when a remaining variation time is less than 1 second during variation, only a default operation is executed, and if the reservation memory to be subjected to a ready-to-win variation is an old reservation, the default operation is executed, and the reservation symbol can be suitably displayed according to a game situation since control is performed so that only a default reservation symbol is displayed for the reservation symbol.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, this type of gaming machine acquires a random number for determining whether or not a win has been made based on the entry of a gaming ball into a starting hole, performs a win / loss judgment on the acquired random number, changes the display of symbols and freezes the display of a symbol corresponding to the result of the win / loss judgment, and executes a jackpot game when a jackpot symbol is frozen and displayed. A known type of gaming machine is one in which the acquired random numbers for determining whether or not a win has been made can be reserved and stored up to a predetermined number, and the reserved random numbers for determining whether or not a win has been made are judged in order. In such a random number for determining whether or not a win has been made, the reserved symbols corresponding to the reserved memories are displayed on the performance display device, making it easy for the player to grasp the number of reserved memories. (For example, Patent Document 1) [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2022-186885 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there was room for improvement in terms of increasing interest in displaying the reserved patterns based on the reserved storage of random numbers for determining whether or not a player has won.

[0005] The main purpose of the gaming machine of the present invention is to increase the interest in displaying reserved patterns. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned main object, the gaming machine of the present invention employs the following means.

[0007] The gaming machine of the present invention is A gaming machine equipped with a reserve memory means for acquiring a random number for determining whether or not a win / loss determination is made based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, and capable of retaining and storing up to a predetermined number of the acquired random numbers for determining whether or not a win / loss determination is made, a win / loss determination means for executing a win / loss determination for the random number for determining whether or not a win / loss determination stored based on the establishment of a win / loss condition, a pattern changing means for executing a pattern change for a predetermined period of time according to the result of the win / loss determination means and then notifying the result according to the pattern that stops, and a special game execution means for transitioning to a special game state that is advantageous to the player when the pattern changing means executes an announcement of a win, wherein the reserved pattern display means is characterized by comprising a generating action execution means for executing either a first generating action or a second generating action that executes a generating action different from the first generating action as a generating action executed when displaying the reserved pattern, and a generating action regulating means for only the second generating action being executed under certain conditions.

[0008] In the gaming machine of the present invention, the reserved symbols corresponding to the reserved random numbers for winning / losing judgment are displayed, and the generating actions when the symbols are displayed are a first generating action and a second generating action having a shorter generating action time than the first generating action, but under certain conditions, only the second generating action is executed. Therefore, it is possible to execute the appropriate generating action depending on the situation, and therefore it is possible to improve the interest of the display of the reserved symbols.

[0009] Furthermore, the device may be characterized by having a pre-determination means for determining the random number for determining whether or not a winning combination is selected before the winning combination is performed, a reserved pattern determination means for selecting and determining the reserved pattern to be displayed from a plurality of reserved patterns having different degrees of jackpot reliability based on the determination result of the pre-determination means, and a first specific condition and a second specific condition, where under the first specific condition, a selection is possible from among the plurality of reserved patterns, but under the second specific condition, a selection is not possible from among the plurality of reserved patterns and only a predetermined reserved pattern is displayable.

[0010] The specific conditions include a first specific condition and a second specific condition, and when the specific conditions are met, under the second specific condition, only the predetermined reserved pattern can be displayed while selection from among the multiple reserved patterns is not possible, so that it is possible to execute a proper generating operation. Note that it is preferable that the predetermined reserved pattern is one among the multiple reserved patterns, and under the second specific condition, only the predetermined reserved pattern among the reserved patterns is selected, but it is also possible to select a dedicated reserved pattern different from the multiple reserved patterns as the predetermined reserved pattern. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to execute the display of reserved symbols according to various conditions, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the display of reserved symbols. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a game board 20 of a pachinko machine 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1. FIG. [Diagram 5] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display of the performance display device 37. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the specifications of a pachinko machine 1. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a main control process executed by a CPU 60a of the main control device 60. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a power-on process. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing an example of a start winning process. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a normal symbol game process. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of normal pattern change display related processing. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a normal symbol winning game process. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol game process. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol game process. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a variable display related process. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a fluctuation pattern. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a jackpot game process. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a jackpot game process. [Figure 19] This is a hold display presentation process executed by the CPU 90a of the sub-integrated control device 90. [Figure 20] 1 is a table showing reserved symbols and reserved occurrence operations. [Figure 21] This is an example of a performance display showing the movement of the reserved pattern when the fluctuation starts, which is executed by the performance display device 37. [Figure 22] 13 is an example of a performance display showing a rotational motion executed by the performance display device 37. [Figure 23] 13 is an example of a performance display showing an explosion action executed by the performance display device 37. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Next, the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to examples. EXAMPLES

[0014] Fig. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1, Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a game board 20 of the pachinko machine 1, and Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1. In this embodiment, an example of applying the present invention to a so-called seven-machine type (first type) game machine will be described, in which the variable display of a special symbol (also called a special symbol for short) starts when a game ball enters a start hole, and a jackpot game starts when the special symbol stops and is displayed as a predetermined jackpot symbol.

[0015] [External configuration of pachinko machine 1] 1, the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment includes a game board 20 arranged so that the board surface can be seen through a glass plate (transparent plate) 4 fitted into a front frame (glass frame) 3, an upper tray 11 and a lower tray 12 for storing game balls, and a launch handle 13 for launching the game balls stored in the upper tray 11 onto the game board 20. The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a CR machine compatible with prepaid cards, and a CR unit 50 for reading and writing prepaid cards is provided on the left side of the pachinko machine 1.

[0016] The front frame 3 is fitted into the inner frame 5 and can be opened and closed relative to the inner frame 5 using hinges provided at the top and bottom of the left side as fulcrums. The inner frame 5 is also fitted into the outer frame 2 and can be opened and closed relative to the outer frame 2 using hinges provided at the top and bottom of the left side as fulcrums. The front frame 3 and the inner frame 5 are configured as a roughly rectangular plastic frame body. Meanwhile, the outer frame 2 is configured as a roughly rectangular wooden frame body, and is fixed to the island frame of the island equipment in the game hall.

[0017] A speaker 14 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the front frame 3 to emit various sound effects as the game progresses and to emit warning sounds to alert the player. In addition, a plurality of LEDs 15 (see FIG. 4) are arranged in the front frame 3 so as to surround the periphery of the game board 20 as decorative light-emitting elements that emit light according to the game status.

[0018] Prize balls and loan balls are dispensed into the upper tray 11, and balls that overflow from the upper tray 11 are dispensed into the lower tray 12. An adjustment display device 52 that displays the balance of a prepaid card inserted into the CR unit 50 is disposed above the upper tray 11, and a ball loan button 53 that instructs the loan of game balls is provided on one of both sides of the adjustment display device 52, and a settlement button 54 that instructs the settlement (return) of the prepaid card inserted into the CR unit 50 is provided on the other side. In addition, an effect button 16 that performs various effects in response to the player's operation is disposed in front of the upper tray 11.

[0019] As shown in Fig. 2, a ball tank 77, a tank rail 78, and a payout device 72 are provided on the back side of the inner frame 5 of the pachinko machine 1. When game balls enter each winning hole provided on the game board 20, the payout device 72 pays out a predetermined number of game balls as prize balls from the ball tank 77 via the tank rail 78 to the upper tray 11. In addition, when the ball loan button 53 is operated, the payout device 72 pays out loan balls to the upper tray 11.

[0020] The launch handle 13 is located to the right of the lower tray 12, and when the player rotates it clockwise, a launch motor 83 (see Figure 4) of the launch device (not shown) is activated, and game balls are shot one by one toward the game board 20 with a launch force that corresponds to the amount of rotation of the launch handle 13.

[0021] [Configuration of the game board 20] As shown in Fig. 3, the game board 20 has a game area 21 surrounded by an outer rail 21a and an inner rail 21b. The game board 20 includes a performance display device 37 provided in the approximate center of the game area 21, a center role 38 including a warp entrance, a warp gutter, a stage, etc., arranged around the performance display device 37, a normal symbol operation gate 22 arranged to the right of the center role 38, a first start opening 23 that is always open and arranged below the center role 38, a second start opening 24 that can be opened and closed and arranged below the normal symbol operation gate 22, a big prize opening 25 arranged in the lower right of the game area 21, a normal prize opening 27 that is always open and arranged in the lower left of the game area 21, and an outlet 29 for collecting game balls that do not enter any of the prize openings. In addition, a large number of nails 21c that guide or bounce game balls flowing down the game area 21 are planted in the game board 20.

[0022] The second starting hole 24 is a variable ball entry hole configured as a normal electric device, and includes a pair of left and right opening and closing blades (opening and closing members) 24b and a second starting hole solenoid 24c (see FIG. 4) for operating the opening and closing blades 24b. This second starting hole 24 is normally in a closed state in which the opening and closing blades 24b are upright and it is difficult for game balls to enter, and when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a winning symbol and a winning game (a normal symbol winning game) is executed, the opening and closing blades 24b are opened to the left and right by the second starting hole solenoid 24c, so that the second starting hole 24 is in an open state in which game balls can easily enter. A second starting hole switch 24a is attached to the second starting hole 24 for detecting the entry of game balls and counting the number of balls that have entered. The second starting hole 24 is closed when the second starting hole switch 24a counts the number of game balls that have entered the hole or when a predetermined maximum opening time has elapsed before the second starting hole switch 24a counts the number of game balls that have entered the hole.

[0023] The big prize opening 25 is a variable ball entrance configured as a special electric device, and includes an opening / closing plate (opening / closing member) 25b and a big prize opening solenoid 25c (see FIG. 4) that operates the opening / closing plate 25b. This big prize opening 25 is usually closed by the opening / closing plate 25b to prevent game balls from entering, and when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big win symbol to play a big win game, the opening / closing plate 25b is opened forward by the big prize opening solenoid 25c to open the opening / closing plate 25b to allow game balls to enter. A big prize opening switch 25a is attached to the big prize opening 25 to detect the entry of game balls and count the number of balls that have entered. The big prize opening 25 is closed when the big prize opening switch 25a counts the number of game balls that have entered the game or when a predetermined maximum opening time has elapsed before the big prize opening switch 25a counts the number of game balls that have entered the game (round game). The big win game is played by repeating the above-mentioned round game a predetermined number of times.

[0024] The first starting hole 23 allows the player to insert the game ball by rotating the launch handle 13 (so-called left hit) so that the game ball flows down to the left area (first game area) of the game area 21. On the other hand, the second starting hole 24 and the big prize hole 25 cannot insert the game ball by hitting from the left, and the game ball can be inserted by rotating the launch handle 13 (so-called right hit) so that the game ball flows down to the right area (second game area) of the game area 21. However, since the second starting hole 24 and the big prize hole 25 are variable prize holes, they can only be opened when a normal symbol is won or when a special symbol is won as a big hit, respectively, and the game ball can only be inserted when the hole is opened.

[0025] Arranged in the lower right corner of the game board 20 are a first special pattern display device (first special pattern display device) 31, a second special pattern display device (second special pattern display device) 32, a first special pattern reserved number display device (first special pattern reserved number display device) 33, a second special pattern reserved number display device (second special pattern reserved number display device) 34, a normal pattern display device (normal pattern display device) 35, and a normal pattern reserved number display device (normal pattern reserved number display device) 36.

[0026] In this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 31 and the second special symbol display device 32 are configured as 7-segment display devices, and a plurality of display modes are expressed by a combination of lighting and extinguishing of each segment. The first special symbol display device 31 and the second special symbol display device 32 start the variable display of the special symbol by sequentially switching the display mode based on the entrance of a game ball into the start hole, and when a predetermined variable time has elapsed, the special symbol is displayed in one of a plurality of predetermined stop display modes to stop and display. Then, when the special symbol is displayed in a predetermined stop display mode (jackpot symbol), a jackpot game is executed. The first special symbol display device 31 is a display device for the first start hole ball entrance that displays the variable special symbol based on the entrance of a game ball into the first start hole 23, and the second special symbol display device 32 is a display device for the second start hole ball entrance that displays the variable special symbol based on the entrance of a game ball into the second start hole 24. In addition, the special pattern displayed by the first special pattern display device 31 is also called the first special pattern (first special pattern), and the special pattern displayed by the second special pattern display device 32 is also called the second special pattern (second special pattern).

[0027] In addition, when a game ball enters the first start hole 23 during the variable display of the special symbol or during a jackpot game, the variable display of the first special symbol is reserved and stored (also simply called reserved) up to a predetermined number (for example, 4), and after the current variable display ends, the variable display of the reserved first special symbol is started sequentially. The reserved number of first special symbols is displayed on the reserved number of first special symbols display device 33. Also, when a game ball enters the second start hole 24 during the variable display of the special symbol or during a jackpot game, the variable display of the second special symbol is reserved and stored up to a predetermined number (for example, 4), and after the current variable display ends, the variable display of the reserved second special symbol is started sequentially. The reserved number of second special symbols is displayed on the reserved number of second special symbols display device 34.

[0028] In this embodiment, the normal symbol display device 35 is configured as an LED display device having multiple display units. The normal symbol display device 35 displays normal symbols by repeatedly turning on and off each of the multiple display units based on the detection of a game ball by the gate switch 22a provided on the normal symbol operation gate 22, and when a predetermined variation time has passed, the normal symbol is displayed stationary by turning on or off each of the multiple display units. When a specific display unit among the multiple display units is lit, it is a winning symbol, and when it is not, it is a losing symbol. When the normal symbol is displayed stationary as a winning symbol, the second starting hole 24 is opened.

[0029] In this embodiment, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 22 during the variable display of the normal symbol, the variable display of the normal symbol is reserved and stored up to a predetermined number (for example, 4), and when the current variable display ends, the variable display of the reserved normal symbol is started sequentially. The reserved number of normal symbols is displayed on the reserved number display device 36.

[0030] The performance display device 37 is an image display device composed of a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays various performances such as a performance pattern 192 that changes between three patterns corresponding to special patterns on the display screen, a notice performance that predicts a reach performance or a big win, and a button performance that involves the operation of the performance button 16. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance display of the performance display device 37. As shown in the figure, the performance pattern 192 consisting of three performance patterns, left, center, and right, consisting of numbers, English letters, characters, symbols, characters, etc. (numbers in the example of the figure) is displayed in the center of the display screen of the performance display device 37. When a game ball enters the start hole (the first start hole 23 or the second start hole 24), the performance pattern 192 is displayed in a variable manner so as to scroll from top to bottom, and when a predetermined variable time has passed, it is displayed in the order of left, right, and center. When the right performance pattern is displayed in a stopped state, if the right performance pattern does not match the left performance pattern, it is a miss (miss without reach). On the other hand, when the right performance symbol matches the left performance symbol, it becomes a reach and transitions to a reach performance. Then, when the performance symbol in the middle is stopped and displayed after the reach performance, if the performance symbol in the middle does not match the performance symbols on the left and right, it is a miss (reach miss), and when the performance symbol in the middle matches the performance symbols on the left and right, it is a jackpot. In addition, the performance display device 37 displays, along with the variable display of the performance symbol 192, a preview performance that suggests the possibility (reliability) of a jackpot, which will be described later, for example.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a display example displayed on the effect display device 37 in a normal game state (both the probability change and the time reduction are off). In the normal game state, as shown in FIG. 5, the corner (lower part) of the display screen of the effect display device 37 is provided with an oval-shaped changing pattern display section 196, and a reserved pattern display section 197 to the left of it. The round pattern displayed on the changing pattern display section 196 indicates the changing pattern, and the round pattern displayed on the reserved pattern display section 197 is the reserved pattern. The reserved pattern is not limited to a round pattern, and may be one of different shapes and colors. In this embodiment, reserved patterns indicating different reliability are used as a pre-reading effect. In addition, since the normal game state is mainly changed by the first special pattern, only reserved patterns corresponding to the reserved memory of the first special pattern are displayed on the reserved pattern display section 197 shown in FIG. 5. The changing pattern is also displayed in the change of the special pattern 2. Conversely, when the time-saving state is activated, only the reserved symbol corresponding to the reserved memory of the second special symbol is displayed, and the reserved symbol of the reserved memory related to the main special symbol in the game is displayed in that game state. Of course, the reserved symbols of both special symbols may be displayed regardless of the game state. In addition, the reserved symbol display unit 197 can display up to four reserved first special symbols. The reserved symbol display section 197 is a section that displays reserved symbols corresponding to the reserved memory of the first special symbol. In the reserved symbol display section 197, each time a game ball enters the first starting hole 23 during the variable display of the special symbol, a corresponding reserved symbol is additionally displayed one by one, and each time the variable display of the first special symbol starts, the reserved symbols are shifted one by one to the variable symbol display section and erased. Note that the reserved symbol becomes a variable symbol by shifting it to the variable symbol display section 196, and the variable symbol is displayed as an original reserved symbol corresponding to the variable performance symbol 192. The reserved symbol display section 197 can display four reserved symbols, which is the upper limit for the number of reserved symbols that can be stored. In addition, the number of reserved memories (reserved number) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be displayed in a predetermined display position in a place different from the reserved symbol position. This number is preferably displayed small, and is preferably smaller than the reserved symbol and less noticeable. The number indicating the number of reserved memories may be displayed in any game state.

[0032] [Control circuit configuration] As shown in FIG. 4, the pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 60, a payout control device 70, a launch control device 80, a sub integrated control device 90, a performance display control device 91, and a power supply board 95 (see FIG. 2) as its control circuits. The main control device 60 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU 60a, and includes, in addition to the CPU 60a, a ROM 60b that stores processing programs and tables, a RAM 60c that temporarily stores data when executing the processing programs, an input / output port, a communication port, and the like. Although not shown, the payout control device 70 and the launch control device 80 are also configured as microprocessors centered on a CPU, and include, in addition to the CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input / output port, a communication port, and the like. The pachinko machine 1 is also provided with an external connection terminal board 65, and signals indicating game states and game results are transmitted to the hall computer 100 (see FIG. 4) via the external connection terminal board 65.

[0033] The main control device 60 is responsible for the basic progress of the game. As shown in FIG. 4, detection signals from the front frame opening switch 3a that detects the opening of the front frame 3 and the inner frame opening switch 5a that detects the opening of the inner frame 5 are input to the main control device 60 via the rear wiring relay terminal board 64. In addition, detection signals (detection signals) from the gate switch 22a that detects the passage of a game ball through the normal pattern operation gate 22, the first start port switch 23a that detects the entry of a game ball into the first start port 23, the second start port switch 24a that detects the entry of a game ball into the second start port 24, the big prize port switch 25a that detects the entry of a game ball into the big prize port 25, the normal prize port switch 27a that detects the entry of a game ball into the normal prize port 27, etc. are input to the main control device 60 via the game board relay terminal board 61. Furthermore, the main control device 60 receives operation signals directly from a setting key switch 67 and a RAM clear switch 68 provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, and the settings made using the setting key switch 67 and the RAM clear switch 68 can be displayed on a setting display device (performance display device) 69 provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. On the other hand, the main control device 60 outputs drive signals to the second start port solenoid 24c and the large prize port solenoid 25c, etc., via a game board relay terminal board 61. Also, the main control device 60 outputs display signals to the first special symbol display device 31, the second special symbol display device 32, the first special symbol reserved number display device 33, the second special symbol reserved number display device 34, the regular symbol display device 35, the regular symbol reserved number display device 36, etc., via a symbol display device relay terminal board 62. Furthermore, the main control device 60 outputs signals to the hall computer 100 via a rear wiring relay terminal board 64 and an external connection terminal board 65.

[0034] The setting key switch 67 is a switch for setting various settings such as the probability of a big win for a special symbol. The RAM clear switch 68 is a switch for executing RAM clearing, and the manager of the game hall can execute RAM clearing by turning on the power while pressing the RAM clear switch 68. In this embodiment, the RAM clear switch 68 is also used to select the setting value of the big win probability for a special symbol. That is, the setting key switch 67 and the RAM clear switch 68 are used to select and set one of six setting values ​​(settings 1 to 6) to which different big win probabilities are assigned as the big win probability for a special symbol. The setting display device 69 is configured as a 7-segment display device, and displays the setting values ​​for various settings, the performance of the pachinko machine 1, and error codes when an error occurs. The manager of the game hall inserts a predetermined key into the setting key switch 67, rotates it, and turns on the power while pressing the RAM clear switch 68. Then, the RAM clear is performed on the pachinko machine 1, and the setting value is changed. When the pachinko machine 1 is in this state, the administrator can select a desired setting value from among settings 1 to 6 by pressing the RAM clear switch 68. In this embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 displays the numbers "1" to "6" corresponding to the currently selected setting value in sequence on the setting display device 69 every time the RAM clear switch 68 is pressed. Therefore, the administrator can select a desired setting value by repeatedly pressing the RAM clear switch 68 so that the number displayed on the setting display device 69 corresponds to the desired setting value. The setting value selected by operating the RAM clear switch 68 is confirmed by the administrator by rotating the key inserted into the setting key switch 67 and returning it to the initial position, and is set as the jackpot probability of the special pattern. By performing such operations, the administrator can set one of settings 1 to 6 for each pachinko machine 1.In this embodiment, the setting value is selected and set using the setting key switch 67 and the RAM clear switch 68, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the setting value may be selected and set using any other operating means that can be operated from the outside, such as a rotary knob, or a dedicated switch for selecting the setting value may be provided. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 displays the setting value on the setting display device 69, but the setting value may be displayed on another display device or may be notified by sound. In addition, the setting value is not limited to six, from settings 1 to 6, and any number of setting values ​​may be selected from a plurality of setting values. The above explanation is for the process when the setting values ​​are from 1 to 6. However, since this embodiment has only setting 1, settings other than 1 cannot be selected.

[0035] The payout control device 70 is responsible for controlling the payout of prize balls and loan balls. A detection signal from a ball-out switch 76 that detects a ball-out in a ball tank 77 for storing game balls to be paid out to the upper tray 11 is input to the payout control device 70 via the back wiring relay terminal board 64, a detection signal from a payout switch 74 that detects game balls to be paid out to the upper tray 11 is input via the payout relay terminal board 71 and the back wiring relay terminal board 64, and a detection signal from a full switch 75 that detects a fullness of the lower tray 12 is directly input to the payout control device 70. On the other hand, a drive signal to the payout motor 73 is output from the payout control device 70 via the back wiring relay terminal board 64 and the payout relay terminal board 71. The payout control device 70 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the main control device 60, and drives the payout motor 73 according to a command sent from the main control device 60 to pay out prize balls. When the payout control device 70 receives a detection signal from either the ball out switch 76 or the full switch 75, it stops driving the payout motor 73 and suspends the payout operation of winning balls until the detection condition is resolved and the detection signal is no longer input.

[0036] The payout control device 70 is also configured to be able to communicate with the CR unit 50 via the CR unit terminal board 51. The CR unit terminal board 51 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the settlement display device 52, and detection signals from the ball lending switch 53a and the settlement switch 54a provided on the settlement display device 52 are input to the payout control device 70 via the CR unit terminal board 51. The ball lending switch 53a detects the operation of the ball lending button 53 and outputs a detection signal, and the settlement switch 54a detects the operation of the settlement button 54 and outputs a detection signal. When the payout control device 70 inputs a ball lending command, it drives the payout motor 73 to pay out the loaned balls. The payout control device 70 is also configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the launch control device 80, and when a predetermined launch stop condition, such as inputting a detection signal from the full switch 75, is met, it sends a launch stop command to the launch control device 80.

[0037] The launch control device 80 is responsible for controlling the launch of game balls into the play area 21. The launch control device 80 receives inputs such as a rotation amount signal output in response to the rotation operation of the launch handle 13, a launch stop signal from a launch stop switch 81 that detects the operation of the launch stop button, and a touch signal from a touch switch 82 that detects that the player is touching the launch handle 13. On the other hand, a drive signal to the launch motor 83 is output from the launch control device 80. The launch control device 80 controls the launch motor 83 so that the game balls are launched into the play area 21 with a launch strength based on the rotation amount signal. When the launch control device 80 has not input a touch signal or has input a launch stop command, it stops the drive of the launch motor 83 regardless of the operation of the launch handle 13, and does not launch the game balls.

[0038] The sub-integrated control device 90 is responsible for controlling the effects of the game. The sub-integrated control device 90 is configured as a microprocessor centered on a CPU 90a, and in addition to the CPU 90a, it is equipped with a ROM 90b, a RAM 90c, an input / output port, a communication port, and the like. This sub-integrated control device 90 can receive various commands from the main control device 60 by one-way communication via the effect relay terminal board 63, and performs effect control according to the received command. A detection signal from the effect button switch 16a that detects the operation of the effect button 16 is input to the sub-integrated control device 90. On the other hand, the sub-integrated control device 90 outputs an audio signal to the speaker 14 and a lighting signal to the LED 15. In addition, the sub-integrated control device 90 outputs a command for effect display control to the effect display control device 91 by one-way communication. The effect display control device 91 receives a command for effect display control from the sub-integrated control device 90, and controls the display of the effect display device 37 so that an effect image corresponding to the command is displayed on the effect display device 37.

[0039] The power supply board 95 is a DC power supply that converts AC voltage from an external AC power supply into DC voltage, and supplies power to each part of the pachinko machine 1 by operating the power switch 95a. Even when the power switch 95a is turned off and the power supply of the pachinko machine 1 is turned off, the power supply board 95 supplies power from the AC power supply to the RAM 60c of the main control device 60, etc., and data in the RAM 60c is held by the power from the AC power supply. The power supply board 95 also includes an auxiliary power supply composed of a capacitor or the like, and stores the power supplied from the AC power supply in the auxiliary power supply. As a result, during a power outage in which the supply of power from the AC power supply is cut off, power from the auxiliary power supply is supplied to the RAM 60c of the main control device 60, etc., and data in the RAM 60c of the main control device 60 is held for a certain period of time. In this way, the main control device 60 has a backup function that holds the memory of the RAM 60c by power from the AC power supply or the auxiliary power supply even when the power switch 95a is turned off or a power outage occurs. On the other hand, the sub integrated control device 90 does not have such a backup function, so when the power switch 95a is turned off or a power outage occurs, the memory of the RAM 90c is cleared.

[0040] [Overview of Pachinko Machine 1] Next, an overview of the game in the pachinko machine 1 thus configured will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the specifications of the pachinko machine 1. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the probability of a jackpot with a special symbol varies depending on the game state and the setting value. That is, as shown in FIG. 6(a), when the game state is a normal state (normal game state), the jackpot probability for setting 1 is 1 / 320. On the other hand, when the game state is a probability-variable game state (probability-variable state), the jackpot probability for setting 1 is 1 / 64. As mentioned above, this embodiment is only setting 1. When a jackpot occurs with a special symbol, a 4-round (4R) jackpot game (a jackpot game in which a round game with a prescribed number of 10 and a maximum opening time of 30 seconds is repeated 4 times) or a 10-round (10R) jackpot game (a jackpot game in which the above round game is repeated 10 times) is executed. When a jackpot game is played, the game state after the jackpot game ends has a 65% chance of going into a special jackpot state (a special jackpot). The special jackpot state is a game state in which the probability of winning the special symbol (jackpot probability) is higher than in the normal state. In addition, when a jackpot game is played, a time-saving state (time-saving game state, easy-to-score state) also occurs as the game state after the jackpot game ends. Although I will not go into details, a jackpot with the second special symbol has a higher chance of playing 10 rounds of jackpot games, and the second special symbol has a higher advantage when hitting a jackpot.

[0041] Also, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the probability of winning with a normal symbol varies depending on the game state, being 1 / 100 when the game state is normal, and 1 / 1.1 when the game state is time-saving. When a win occurs with a normal symbol, a normal symbol winning game (normal symbol winning game) is executed in which the second starting hole 24 (normal electric role) opens. When a win occurs with a normal symbol when the game state is normal, a normal symbol winning game with a specified number of 10 and a maximum opening time of 0.1 seconds is executed, and when a win occurs with a normal symbol when the game state is time-saving, a normal symbol winning game with a specified number of 10 and a maximum opening time of 5.8 seconds is executed. In this embodiment, the time-saving state is a game state that activates a time-saving function that shortens the normal symbol variation time compared to the normal state, a normal symbol probability-changing function that increases the probability of winning the normal symbol compared to the normal state, and an opening extension function that extends the opening time of the second starting hole 24 when the normal symbol is won compared to the normal state. Note that the time-saving state may omit some of these three functions.

[0042] In the pachinko machine 1 having such specifications, when a game ball enters the first starting hole 23 by hitting from the left (firing of a game ball into the first game area) (a predetermined condition is met), a win / loss determination is made, and the variable display of the first special symbol is started. Then, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big win symbol, a big win occurs, and a big win game is executed in which the big prize opening 25 is opened. The big prize opening 25 cannot accept game balls by hitting from the left, but can accept game balls by hitting from the right (firing of a game ball into the second game area). Therefore, when a big win game is executed, the player will play the big win game by hitting from the right. The winning symbol of the special symbol may include a small win symbol in which a small win game is executed in which the opening time of the big prize opening 25 is shorter than that of the big win game. In addition to the winning symbols (jackpot symbols), the special symbols may include time-saving symbols that generate a time-saving state without generating a jackpot.

[0043] There are two types of jackpot patterns: normal jackpot patterns and probability jackpot patterns. When the special pattern is stopped and displayed as a normal jackpot pattern, the game will enter a time-saving state after the jackpot game ends until the variable display of the special pattern is executed a predetermined number of times (100 times). Therefore, the player can easily make the game ball enter the second starting hole 24 by hitting the right side. When the game ball enters the second starting hole 24 (a predetermined condition is met), the variable display of the second special pattern begins. When the special pattern is stopped and displayed as a probability jackpot pattern, the game will enter a probability jackpot state and a time-saving state after the jackpot game ends. In the probability jackpot state, the probability of winning the special pattern (the probability of winning) is higher than in the normal state until the variable display of the special pattern is executed a predetermined number of times (10,000 times), that is, until the next jackpot is actually drawn. Therefore, in the special probability state and the time-saving state, the player can easily get the game ball into the second starting hole 24 by hitting from the right, thereby advantageously generating a jackpot while suppressing the loss of balls in hand, providing a chance to win a large number of balls in a short period of time.

[0044] [Main control processing] Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1, particularly the operation of the main control device 60, will be described in more detail. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the main control process executed by the CPU 60a of the main control device 60. This process is executed when the power switch 95a of the pachinko machine 1 is operated. The main control process is performed by repeatedly executing a random number update process (S20), a winning confirmation process (S30), a start winning process (S40), a normal symbol game process (S50), a normal symbol winning game process (S60), a special symbol game process (S70), and a big win game process (S80) after executing a power-on process required for turning on the power of the pachinko machine 1 (S10). In this embodiment, the time required for the processes of S20 to S80 is about 2 msec, and these processes are repeatedly executed at intervals of about 2 msec. The main control device 60 executes a main control process to send various commands to the control devices in charge and have them execute processes according to the commands, thereby progressing the entire game of the pachinko machine 1.

[0045] [Power-on process] FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of a power-on process. In the power-on process of S10, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first sets an access permission that enables reading and writing of data to the RAM 60c after completing a security check (S100). Then, it is determined whether the backup flag is OFF (S102) and whether the RAM clear signal is OFF (S104). The backup flag is a flag indicating whether the stored contents of the RAM 60c are normal or not. The backup flag is determined whether the stored contents of the RAM 60c are normal or not by, for example, a checksum process, and is turned ON when it is determined to be normal, and is turned OFF when it is determined to be abnormal. The RAM clear signal is turned ON when the power is turned on with the RAM clear switch 68 operated, and is turned OFF when the power is turned on with the RAM clear switch 68 not operated.

[0046] When it is determined that the backup flag is OFF, or that the backup flag is ON but the RAM clear signal is ON, the game is started from the initial state. That is, the CPU 60a performs an initialization process to clear and initialize the game information storage area of ​​the RAM 60c that stores game information and to start a game from the initial state (S106), transmits the corresponding initial commands to the payout control device 70 and the sub integrated control device 90 (S108), and ends the power-on process. As described above, if the power is turned on while the setting key switch 67 and the RAM clear switch 68 are operated, the RAM clear signal turns ON, and the CPU 60a stores one setting value set (selected) by the setting key switch 67 from settings 1 to 6 in the setting value storage area of ​​the RAM 60c in accordance with the initialization process, and activates the setting value. The setting value storage area is not cleared by the initialization process. As shown above, this is the content when settings 1 to 6 are provided, and this embodiment is only setting 1.

[0047] On the other hand, if it is determined in S102 and S104 that the backup flag is ON and the RAM clear signal is OFF, the system starts from the state immediately before the power was cut off. That is, the CPU 60a first reads out the game information immediately before the power was cut off that is stored in the game information storage area of ​​the RAM 60c (S110). The game information immediately before the power was cut off is information that indicates the state of the game that was in progress immediately before the power was cut off. Then, the system performs a power recovery process to resume the game according to the read game information (S112), and transmits corresponding recovery commands to the payout control device 70 and the sub integrated control device 90 (S114), and ends the power-on process. When the power-on process ends, the system returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next random number update process (S20).

[0048] In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the main control device 60 has a backup function for retaining the memory of the RAM 60c as described above, and if the game information is normally stored in the RAM 60c when the power is turned on and the RAM is not cleared, the game can be restored to the game state before the power is turned off. On the other hand, the sub-integrated control device 90 does not have such a backup function, and therefore cannot recognize the game state of the pachinko machine 1 when the power is turned on. Therefore, in this embodiment, the main control device 60 selectively transmits an initial command and a return command to the sub-integrated control device 90 according to the game information stored at the time of return in the power-on process, so that the sub-integrated control device 90 determines the game state of the pachinko machine 1 immediately after the power is turned on based on the received command.

[0049] [Random number update process] The random number update process of S20 is a process for updating various random numbers for judgment. Examples of the random numbers for judgment include a random number for jackpot judgment (random number for special symbol hit / miss judgment) used for jackpot judgment (hit / miss judgment) performed based on the entry of a game ball into the start port (first start port 23 or second start port 24), a random number for determining a jackpot symbol used to determine a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device (first special symbol display device 31 or second special symbol display device 32) when the result of the jackpot judgment is a jackpot, a random number for determining a losing symbol used to determine a losing symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device (first special symbol display device 31 or second special symbol display device 32) when the result of the jackpot judgment is a miss, a random number for determining a variation pattern used to determine a variation pattern (variation time) of a special symbol, and a random number for determining a normal symbol hit / miss judgment used for a hit / miss judgment performed based on the passage of a game ball through the normal symbol operation gate 22. When the random number update process is completed, the process returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next winning confirmation process (S30).

[0050] [Winning confirmation process] The winning confirmation process of S30 detects the state of various sensors (such as the first start port switch 23a, the second start port switch 24a, the gate switch 22a, the large winning port switch 25a, and the normal winning port switch 27a) and stores the state in a predetermined state storage area of ​​the RAM 60c. In addition, it determines whether or not a game ball is detected by a switch related to a prize ball (the above-mentioned winning port switches except the gate switch 22a), and if it is determined that a game ball is detected, it calculates the number of prize balls to be paid out and stores it as prize ball information in a predetermined prize ball information storage area of ​​the RAM 60c. Then, if the prize ball information is not a value of 0, it transmits a prize ball number designation command (prize ball information) to the payout control device 70 and ends the winning confirmation process. When the payout control device 70 receives the prize ball number designation command, it drives the payout motor 73 to pay out game balls one by one, and executes a prize ball payout process in which the prize ball information (number of unpaid game balls) is decremented by one each time a paid-out game ball is detected by the payout switch 74. This prize ball payout process is repeatedly executed until the prize ball information becomes 0, but when a game ball is detected entering the machine and a new prize ball number designation command is received from the main control device 60, the process is repeated until the prize ball information also becomes 0. When the winning confirmation process is completed, the process returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next start winning process (S40).

[0051] [Start-up winning process] 9 is a flow chart showing an example of the start winning process. In the start winning process of S40, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first inputs a detection signal from the first start hole switch 23a to determine whether or not a game ball has entered the first start hole 23 (S200). When it is determined that a game ball has entered the first start hole 23, it determines whether or not the current reserved number of the first special symbol (first special symbol reserved number) is less than its upper limit number (value 4 in this embodiment) (S202). When it is determined that the reserved number of the first special symbol is less than the upper limit number, it increments the reserved number of the first special symbol by a value of 1 and updates the display of the first special symbol reserved number display device 33, obtains a random number for determining the first special symbol, and stores it in a predetermined random number for determining storage area of ​​the RAM 60c (S204). Here, the random numbers for judgment acquired in S204 include information on the progress of the variable game of the first special symbol, such as the random numbers for judging a big win, the random numbers for determining a big win symbol, the random numbers for determining a losing symbol, and the random numbers for determining a variable pattern. Then, the acquired random numbers for judgment are pre-read and the information on the result is stored (S206). In this way, it is possible to grasp what the result of the reserved memory stored before the execution of the hit / miss judgment will be. Then, a first special symbol reserved number instruction command including the contents of the pre-read judgment result of S206 is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S208), and the process proceeds to S210. The first special symbol reserved number instruction command includes information on the reserved number of the first special symbol for displaying the first reserved symbol 372a on the performance display device 37. If it is determined in S200 that no game ball has entered the first starting hole 23, or if it is determined in S202 that the number of reserved first special symbols has reached the upper limit, the process skips S204 to S208 and proceeds to the next process of S210. In this embodiment, the special symbol reserved number instruction command includes the result of the look-ahead determination, but the reserved number instruction command and the command indicating the result of the look-ahead determination may be provided separately, and each command may be sent to the sub-integrated control device 90.

[0052] Next, a detection signal from the second start hole switch 24a is input to determine whether or not a game ball has entered the second start hole 24 (S210). When it is determined that a game ball has entered the second start hole 24, it is determined whether or not the current reserved number of the second special symbol (second special symbol reserved number) is less than its upper limit number (value 4 in this embodiment) (S212). When it is determined that the reserved number of the second special symbol is less than the upper limit number, the reserved number of the second special symbol is incremented by a value of 1, and the display of the second special symbol reserved number display device 34 is updated, and a random number for determining the second special symbol is obtained and stored in a predetermined random number for determination storage area of ​​the RAM 60c (S214). Here, the random number for determination obtained in S214 can be information on the progress of the variable game of the second special symbol, such as the random number for determining a jackpot, the random number for determining a jackpot symbol, the random number for determining a losing symbol, and the random number for determining a variable pattern, as described above. Then, the acquired random number for judgment is pre-read and judged, and the information of the result is stored (S216). Then, a second special symbol reserved number instruction command including the result of the pre-read judgment of S216 is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S218), and the process proceeds to S220. The second special symbol reserved number instruction command includes information on the reserved number of the second special symbol for displaying the second reserved symbol 372b on the performance display device 37. Note that, if it is determined in S210 that a game ball has not entered the second starting hole 24, or if it is determined in S212 that the reserved number of the second special symbol has reached the upper limit, the processes of S214 to S218 are skipped and the process proceeds to the next process of S220.

[0053] Next, a detection signal from the gate switch 22a is input to determine whether or not the game ball has passed through the normal symbol activation gate 22 (S220). When it is determined that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol activation gate 22, it is determined whether or not the current number of reserved normal symbols is less than the upper limit (for example, a value of 4) (S222). When it is determined that the number of reserved normal symbols is less than the upper limit, the number of reserved normal symbols is incremented by a value of 1, the display of the reserved normal symbol number display device 36 is updated, and a random number for determining the normal symbol is obtained and stored in a predetermined random number for determination storage area of ​​the RAM 60c (S224). Then, the obtained random number for determination is pre-read and the information on the result is stored (S226). As the random number for determining the normal symbol, information on the progress of the variable game of the normal symbol, such as the above-mentioned random number for determining whether the normal symbol is a hit or miss, can be exemplified. Then, a normal symbol reserved number instruction command including the result of the look-ahead judgment in S226 is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S228), and the start winning process is terminated. If it is determined in S220 that the game ball has not passed through the normal symbol activation gate 22, or if it is determined in S222 that the reserved number of normal symbols has reached the upper limit, the processes in S224 to S228 are skipped and the start winning process is terminated. When the start winning process is terminated, the process returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next normal symbol game process (S50). In this embodiment, no special effects are executed regarding the prediction of normal patterns, and the number of reserved patterns is not displayed on the effect display, but since there is a possibility that it may be used on different gaming machines, these processes are provided to enable the reuse of those and the programs.

[0054] [Normal symbol game processing] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of normal symbol game processing. In the normal symbol game processing of S50, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first judges whether or not the normal symbol hit flag (normal symbol hit flag) is a value of 1 (S300). The normal symbol hit flag is a flag indicating whether or not a normal symbol hit game is being played. If it is judged that the normal symbol hit flag is a value of 1, it is judged that a normal symbol hit game is being played, and the normal symbol game processing is terminated. If the normal symbol game processing is terminated, it proceeds to the next normal symbol hit game processing of S60. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal symbol hit flag is a value of 0, not a value of 1, it is judged that a normal symbol hit game is not being played, and it is judged whether or not the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (S302), and whether or not the fixed symbol of the normal symbol is being displayed (S304). If it is determined that the normal symbol is not being displayed variably and that the display time of the fixed symbol is not in progress, it is determined whether the number of reserved normal symbols is greater than the value 0 (S306). If it is determined that the number of reserved normal symbols is not greater than the value 0, that is, the value is 0, the normal symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of reserved normal symbols is greater than the value 0, the oldest of the normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the determination random number storage area is read (S308), and a normal symbol variable display related process for displaying the normal symbol variably is executed (S310), and the normal symbol game process is terminated. Details of the normal symbol variable display related process of S310 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11.

[0055] In the normal symbol variation display related process, it is determined whether the time-saving flag is a value of 0 or not (S350). The time-saving flag is a flag that indicates whether the current game state is in the time-saving state or not. If it is determined that the time-saving flag is a value of 0, that is, that the current game state is not in the time-saving state, a win / loss determination is made using the low-probability normal symbol win / loss determination table based on the acquired normal symbol win / loss determination random number (S352). On the other hand, if it is determined that the time-saving flag is a value of 1, that is, that the current game state is in the time-saving state, a win / loss determination is made using the high-probability normal symbol win / loss determination table based on the acquired normal symbol win / loss determination random number (S354). The win / loss determination of the normal symbol is performed by comparing the normal symbol win / loss determination random number with the win value included in the normal symbol win / loss determination table, and if the normal symbol win / loss determination random number matches the win value, it is determined to be a win, and if they do not match, it is determined to be a miss. The high probability normal symbol winning judgment table has many winning values ​​set compared to the low probability normal symbol winning judgment table. As a result, the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to be high in the time-saving state and low in the non-time-saving state. If the winning / losing judgment result is a winning ("YES" in S356), the winning symbol is determined as the fixed symbol of the normal symbol (S358), and the normal symbol fluctuation time (winning fluctuation pattern) from the start of the normal symbol fluctuation display to the fixed display of the winning symbol is determined (S362). Also, if the winning / losing judgment result is a losing symbol ("NO" in S356), the losing symbol is determined as the fixed symbol of the normal symbol (S360), and the normal symbol fluctuation time (losing fluctuation pattern) from the start of the normal symbol fluctuation display to the fixed display of the losing symbol is determined (S362). The normal symbol fluctuation time is set to be shorter in the time-saving state than in the normal state. Once the confirmed normal symbol pattern and the change time (change pattern) have been determined in this manner, the display of the normal symbol changes begins (S364), the number of reserved normal symbols is decremented by a value of 1, and the display on the normal symbol reserve number display device 36 is updated (S366), a command to start changing the normal symbols is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S368), and the normal symbol game processing is terminated.

[0056] Returning to the normal symbol game process of FIG. 10, when the normal symbol variable display is started, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 determines in S302 that the normal symbol is being variably displayed, and then determines whether the normal symbol variable time determined in S362 has elapsed (variation according to the determined variable pattern has ended) (S312). If it is determined that the normal symbol variable time has not elapsed, the normal symbol game process is temporarily terminated, and if it is determined that the normal symbol variable time has elapsed, a fixed symbol display process is performed to display the fixed symbol of the normal symbol being variably displayed (S314). Then, it is determined whether the fixed symbol display time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed (S316). If it is determined that the fixed symbol display time has not elapsed, the normal symbol game process is temporarily terminated. When the normal pattern game process is executed after the confirmed normal pattern is displayed, it is determined in S304 that the display time for the confirmed pattern is in progress, and it is again determined in S316 whether or not the confirmed pattern display time has elapsed. If it is determined that the confirmed pattern display time has elapsed, the display of the confirmed pattern is terminated (S318), and it is determined whether or not the confirmed normal pattern is a winning pattern (S320).

[0057] If it is determined that the confirmed normal pattern is not a winning pattern but a losing pattern, the normal pattern game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the confirmed normal pattern is a winning pattern, the normal pattern winning flag (normal pattern winning flag) is set to a value of 1 (S322) and the normal pattern game process is terminated. When the normal pattern game process is terminated, the process proceeds to the next normal pattern winning game process in S60.

[0058] [Normal symbol winning game processing] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of a normal symbol winning game process. In the normal symbol winning game process of S60, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first judges whether the normal symbol winning flag is a value of 1 or not (S400). If it is judged that the normal symbol winning flag is a value of 0, not a value of 1, it is judged that the normal symbol winning game is not being played, and the normal symbol winning game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal symbol winning flag is a value of 1, it is judged that the normal symbol winning game is being played, and it is judged whether the second start hole 24 is being opened or not (S402). If it is judged that the second start hole 24 is not being opened, it is judged whether the opening waiting time has elapsed or not (S404). If it is judged that the opening waiting time has not elapsed, it is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the opening waiting time has elapsed, the opening pattern (maximum opening time) of the second start hole 24 is determined (S406), and the second start hole solenoid 24c is controlled so that the second start hole 24 opens in the determined opening pattern (S408), and the normal symbol winning game processing is temporarily terminated. The opening pattern of the second start hole 24 differs depending on the game state. In this embodiment, when the game state is the normal state, an opening pattern is set to open once for a maximum of 0.1 seconds, and when the game state is the time-saving state, an opening pattern is set to open once for a maximum of 5.8 seconds.

[0059] When the second start hole 24 is opened, the next time the normal symbol winning game process is executed, it is determined in S402 that the second start hole 24 is open, and it is determined whether or not a specified number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) have entered the second start hole 24 based on the detection signal from the second start hole switch 24a (S410), and whether or not the elapsed time since the opening of the second start hole 24 has started has reached the maximum opening time determined in S406 (S412). If it is determined that the specified number of game balls have not entered the second start hole 24 and that the elapsed time since the opening of the second start hole 24 has started has not reached the maximum opening time, the normal symbol winning game process is temporarily terminated while the second start hole 24 is kept open. On the other hand, if it is determined that the specified number of game balls have entered the second start hole 24 or that the elapsed time since the opening of the second start hole 24 has started has reached the maximum opening time, the second start hole 24 is closed (S414). Then, in order to end the normal symbol winning game, the normal symbol winning flag is set to a value of 0 (S416), and the normal symbol winning game process is ended. When the normal symbol winning game process is ended, the process proceeds to the special symbol game process of S70.

[0060] [Special symbol game processing] 13 and 14 are flow charts showing an example of a special symbol game process. In the special symbol game process of S70, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first judges whether the jackpot flag is value 1 or not (S500). If it is judged that the jackpot flag is value 1, it is judged that a jackpot game is being played, and the special symbol game process is terminated. When the special game process is terminated, the process returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next jackpot game process (S80). On the other hand, if it is judged that the jackpot flag is value 0 instead of value 1, it is judged that a jackpot game is not being played, and it is judged whether either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (S502), and whether or not the fixed symbol is being displayed (S504). If it is judged that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner and the fixed symbol is not being displayed, it is judged whether or not the reserved number of the second special symbol is greater than the value 0 (S506). If it is determined that the number of reserved second special symbols is greater than the value 0, the oldest of the random numbers for determining the second special symbol stored in the random number memory area for determining the second special symbol is read (S508), and a process related to the second special symbol change display for displaying the change in the second special symbol is executed (S510), and the special symbol game process is terminated.

[0061] On the other hand, if it is determined that the reserved number of the second special symbol is the value 0, it is determined whether or not the reserved number of the first special symbol is greater than the value 0 (S512). If it is determined that the reserved number of the first special symbol is greater than the value 0, the oldest of the random numbers for judgment of the first special symbol stored in the random number for judgment storage area is read (S514), a process related to the first special symbol variable display for displaying the variable display of the first special symbol is executed (S516), and the special symbol game process is terminated. If it is determined in S512 that the reserved number of the first special symbol is the value 0, the special symbol game process is terminated. In S506 to S516, when the reserved number of the first special symbol and the reserved number of the second special symbol are both greater than the value 0, the variable display of the second special symbol (consumption of reserved symbols) is executed with priority (special symbol 2 priority variable). Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first special symbol change display (consumption of reserved balls) may be given priority (special symbol 1 priority change), the special symbol change display may be performed in the order of balls entering the start hole (first start hole 23, second start hole 24) (ball entry order change), or the first special symbol change display and the second special symbol change display may be performed in parallel (simultaneous change). Below, the second special symbol change display related process of S510 and the first special symbol change display related process of S516 will be described in detail. In order to avoid duplication, the first special symbol change display related process and the second special symbol change display related process will be described using a common flowchart. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the common change display related process.

[0062] In the variable display related process, first, it is determined whether the probability of winning is 0 or not, that is, whether the game is in a normal state or not (S600). If it is determined that the probability of winning is 0 (normal state), a low-probability jackpot determination process (win / lose determination) in which the probability of winning is low is performed (S602), and if it is determined that the probability of winning is 1 (probability of winning state), a high-probability jackpot determination process in which the probability of winning is high is performed (S604). The jackpot determination process is performed by comparing a jackpot determination random number obtained based on the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 23 or the second start hole 24 with a jackpot value included in the jackpot determination table, and if the jackpot determination random number matches any of the jackpot values, it is determined that there is a jackpot, and if the jackpot determination random number does not match any of the jackpot values, it is determined that there is a miss. The jackpot determination table is one of low-probability and high-probability jackpot determination tables according to the current setting value of the jackpot probability (only setting 1 in this embodiment). When the probability variable flag is set to value 0 (low probability state), the low-probability jackpot determination table with a small jackpot value is used, and when the probability variable flag is set to value 1 (high probability state), the high-probability jackpot determination table with a large jackpot value is used. When the jackpot determination process is performed, it is determined whether the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot or not (S606).

[0063] If the result of the jackpot determination process is a jackpot, the jackpot pattern is determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot pattern read in S508 or S514 (S608). This process is performed by using the random number for determining the jackpot pattern to select one pattern from among multiple jackpot patterns (for example, 4R normal jackpot pattern, 4R variable jackpot pattern, 10R variable jackpot pattern, etc.) that have different contents of the jackpot game (number of rounds) and game states after the jackpot game ends (time-saving state, variable state), using the random number for determining the jackpot pattern. The determined jackpot pattern is stored in the RAM 60c and is saved until the jackpot game ends. Then, the variation time of the special pattern (jackpot variation pattern) from the start of the variation display of the special pattern to the stop display of the determined jackpot pattern is determined based on the random number for determining the variation pattern read in S508 or S514 and the jackpot variation pattern table (S610).

[0064] On the other hand, if it is determined in S606 that the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a miss symbol is determined based on the random number for determining a miss symbol read in S508 or S514 (S612). Then, based on the random number for determining a miss symbol read in S508 or S514 and the miss variable pattern table, the variable time of the special symbol from when the variable display of the special symbol starts to when the determined miss symbol is stopped and displayed (miss variable pattern) is determined (S614). Note that a variable pattern table with a long average variable time may be used in the normal state, and a variable pattern table with a short average variable time may be used in the time-saving state, and different variable pattern tables may be used depending on the game state.

[0065] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern of the first special symbol in a normal game state. As shown in the figure, the variation patterns include a variation pattern of normal variation (no reach), a variation pattern from normal variation to normal reach (for example, normal reach 1, 2), and a variation pattern that develops from normal reach to SP reach (for example, SP reach 1, 2). In the case of a jackpot, the variation pattern of normal variation (no reach) is not included, and the selection rates of normal reach 1, 2 and SP reach 1, 2 are 1%, 2%, 17%, and 80%, respectively. In addition, in the case of a miss, the selection rates of normal variation, normal reach 1, 2, and SP reach 1, 2 are 80%, 9%, 6%, 4%, and 1%, respectively. Therefore, the variation patterns are SP reach 2, SP reach 1, normal reach 2, and normal reach 1 in descending order of jackpot reliability, and a jackpot does not occur in normal variation. Normal reach 1 is a version that takes a long time after it becomes a reach, and normal reach 2 is a version that takes a short time after it becomes a reach. Normal reach is also a passing point to develop into SP reach, and the timing of the stop of normal reach 2 is a branching point where the pattern stops as it is or develops into SP reach, and normal reach 1 is when normal reach continues without developing into SP reach. SP reach 1 and SP reach 2 have different types of performance display, and SP reach 1 is a reach shown in Figure 23 described later. SP reach 2 is omitted, but it is different from SP reach 1. There are differences such as the tendency for a variation pattern with a short variation time in normal variation to be selected depending on the number of reserved memories of the first special pattern, but since it is the same as before, the explanation will be omitted. It is also possible to make the selection rate of reach and the selection rate of type different depending on the number of reserved.

[0066] When the variation pattern is determined in this way, the variation display of the special symbol is started (S616), the reserved number of the special symbol is decremented by a value of 1, and the display of the reserved number display device of the special symbol is updated (S618). When the variation display of the first special symbol is started, this process is a process of decrementing the reserved number of the first special symbol by a value of 1 and updating the display of the reserved number display device of the first special symbol, and when the variation display of the second special symbol is started, the reserved number of the second special symbol is decremented by a value of 1 and updating the display of the reserved number display device of the second special symbol. In addition, the random number for judgment related to the reservation to be consumed this time is cleared with the update of the reserved number of the special symbol. Then, a variation start command of the special symbol is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S620), and the variation display related process is terminated. The sub-integrated control device 90 that has received the variation start command transmits a control command to the performance display control device 91 so that the pattern variation performance is started on the performance display device 37. The fluctuation start command includes the result of the jackpot determination, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol (fluctuation time), and the confirmed symbol (normal jackpot symbol, special jackpot symbol, or miss symbol).

[0067] Returning to the special symbol game process of FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, when the special symbol game process is executed after the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) has started, since it is determined in S502 that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is being displayed, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 determines whether the variable time has elapsed (S518). Since the variable time is set according to the variable pattern of the special symbol determined in S610 or S614, it can be determined whether the variable time has elapsed by comparing the elapsed time from the start of the variable display of the special symbol with the variable time corresponding to the variable pattern. If it is determined that the variable time has not elapsed, the special symbol game process is temporarily terminated. If it is determined that the variable time has elapsed, a symbol stop command is sent to the sub integrated control device 90 (S520), and the fixed symbol of the special symbol being displayed is displayed (S522). The sub-integrated control device 90 that has received the symbol stop command transmits a control command to the effect display control device 91 to end the symbol variation effect on the effect display device 37. Then, it is determined whether or not the fixed symbol display time has elapsed (S524). Here, the fixed symbol display time is set to 0.5 seconds in this embodiment. If it is determined that the fixed symbol display time has not elapsed, the special symbol game process is temporarily terminated. When the special symbol game process is executed after the special symbol is stopped and displayed, it is determined in S504 that the fixed symbol is being displayed, so it is determined again in S524 whether or not the fixed symbol display time has elapsed, and if it is determined that the fixed symbol display time has elapsed, the display of the fixed symbol is terminated (S526), ​​and it is determined whether or not the fixed symbol is a jackpot symbol (S528).

[0068] When it is determined in S528 that the symbol is a jackpot symbol, the operation of the condition device is started in order to generate a jackpot (S530), the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is started (S532), and the value of the jackpot flag is set to 1 (S534). Then, in order to stop the probability variable function and the time-saving function during the jackpot game, the probability variable flag is set to 0 when the probability variable flag is 1 (probability variable state) (S536, S538), and the time-saving flag is set to 0 when the time-saving flag is 1 (time-saving state) (S540, S542), a game state designation command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S544), and the special symbol game process is terminated. The game state designation command includes the value of the jackpot flag, the probability variable flag, and the time-saving flag. When the special symbol game process is terminated, the process returns to the main control process and proceeds to the next jackpot game process of S80.

[0069] On the other hand, if it is determined in S528 that the symbol is not a jackpot symbol, it is determined whether the probability variable flag is 1 (S546), and if it is determined that the probability variable flag is 0 rather than 1, the process proceeds to S554. If it is determined that the probability variable flag is 1, the probability variable counter is decremented by 1 (S548), and it is determined whether the probability variable counter is 0 (S550). Here, the probability variable counter indicates the remaining number of times that the special symbol that maintains the probability variable state will change, and a predetermined value is set to the probability variable counter at the end of the jackpot game. In this embodiment, when a probability variable jackpot is won, a value of 10,000 is set to the probability variable counter as the number of times that the special symbol that maintains the probability variable state (the number of times that the probability variable state continues), so that the probability variable state is essentially maintained until the next jackpot is won. If it is determined that the value of the special chance counter is not 0, the special chance state is maintained and the process proceeds to the next step S554. If it is determined that the value of the special chance counter is 0, the special chance state is ended by setting the special chance flag to 0 (S552) and the process proceeds to the next step S554.

[0070] Next, it is determined whether the time-saving flag is a value of 1 (S554), and if it is determined that the time-saving flag is a value of 0, not 1, the process proceeds to S544. If it is determined that the time-saving flag is a value of 1, the time-saving counter is decremented by a value of 1 (S556), and it is determined whether the time-saving counter is a value of 0 (S558). Here, the time-saving counter indicates the remaining number of variations of the special pattern that maintains the time-saving state, and a value that is predetermined is set to the time-saving counter at the end of the jackpot game. In this embodiment, when a sure-variable jackpot is won, a value of 10,000 is set, so that the time-saving state is essentially maintained until the next jackpot is won. Also, when a normal jackpot is won, a value of 100 is set. If it is determined that the time-saving counter is not a value of 0, the special pattern game process is ended while maintaining the time-saving state, and if it is determined that the time-saving counter is a value of 0, the time-saving flag is set to a value of 0 to end the time-saving state (S560). Then, a game state designation command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S544), and the special symbol game process is terminated.

[0071] [Jackpot game processing] 17 and 18 are flow charts showing an example of the jackpot game process. In the jackpot game process of S80, the CPU 60a of the main control device 60 first judges whether the jackpot flag is value 1 (during jackpot game) or not (S700). If it is judged that the jackpot flag is value 0, not value 1, the jackpot game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the jackpot flag is value 1, it judges whether the big prize winning port 25 is being opened (S702), whether the jackpot game start presentation is being performed (S704), whether the jackpot game end presentation is being performed (S706), and whether the opening interval is being performed (S708). If it is judged negatively in any of S702 to S708, it transmits a jackpot game start presentation command to the sub integrated control device 90 (S710), and terminates the jackpot game process. The sub-integrated control device 90 that has received the jackpot game start presentation command starts the jackpot game start presentation. When the jackpot game start presentation starts, the next time the jackpot game processing is executed, in order to determine that the jackpot game start presentation is in progress in S704, it is determined whether the jackpot game start presentation time has elapsed (S712). If it is determined that the jackpot game start presentation time has not elapsed, the jackpot game processing is temporarily terminated, and if it is determined that the jackpot game start presentation time has elapsed, the jackpot game opening 25 is opened by driving the jackpot opening solenoid 25c (S714), and the jackpot game processing is terminated. The main control device 60 transmits a round game presentation command to the sub-integrated control device 90 in conjunction with the opening of the jackpot game opening 25.

[0072] When the large prize opening 25 is opened, the next time the large prize opening 25 is executed, it is determined in S702 that the large prize opening 25 is open, and based on the detection signal from the large prize opening switch 25a, it is determined whether the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 25 has reached a specified number (10 in this embodiment) (S716), and whether the elapsed time (opening time) since the large prize opening 25 was opened has reached the maximum opening time (30 seconds in this embodiment) (S718). If it is determined that the number of game balls entering the large prize opening 25 has not reached the specified number and the opening time of the large prize opening 25 has not reached the maximum opening time, the large prize opening 25 is kept open and the large prize opening 25 is temporarily terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of game balls entering the big prize opening 25 has reached a specified number, or when it is determined that the opening time of the big prize opening 25 has reached the maximum opening time even if the number of balls entering has not reached the specified number, the big prize opening 25 is closed (S720), and it is determined whether or not the current round game is the final round (S722). Since the number of rounds of the big prize game is set by the big prize pattern ("4R normal big prize pattern", "10R normal big prize pattern", "10R variable big prize pattern"), the determination of whether or not the current round game is the final round is performed by determining whether or not the number of repetitions of the round game has reached a number determined according to the big prize pattern. When it is determined that the current round game is not the final round, an interval between openings is generated (S724), and the big prize game processing is terminated. When an interval between openings is generated, the main control device 60 transmits an interval between openings generation command to the sub integrated control device 90. When an interval between openings occurs, the next time the jackpot game process is executed, in order to determine in S708 that the interval between openings is in progress, it is determined whether the interval between openings (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed (S726). If it is determined that the interval between openings has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is temporarily terminated with the jackpot winning hole 25 closed, and if it is determined that the interval between openings has elapsed, the jackpot winning hole 25 is opened again (S714), and the jackpot game process is terminated.

[0073] After repeating the round play in which the big prize winning hole 25 is opened and closed with an interval between openings, if it is determined in S722 that the current round play is the final round, a big prize play end presentation command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S728) and the big prize play processing is terminated. The sub-integrated control device 90 that has received the big prize play end presentation command starts the big prize play end presentation. When the big prize play end presentation starts, it is determined in S706 that the big prize play end presentation is in progress when the next big prize play processing is started, so it is determined whether or not the big prize play end presentation time has elapsed (S730). If it is determined that the big prize play end presentation time has not elapsed, the big prize play processing is temporarily terminated, and if it is determined that the big prize play end presentation time has elapsed, the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is stopped (S732) and the operation of the condition device is stopped (S734). Next, it is determined whether or not the current big prize pattern is a sure-variable big prize pattern (S736). If it is determined that the jackpot pattern is a high probability jackpot pattern, the high probability flag is set to a value of 1 (S738), the high probability counter is set to a value of 10000 (S740), the time-saving flag is set to a value of 1 (S742), and the time-saving counter is set to a value of 10000 (S744) in order to generate a high probability state and a time-saving state. On the other hand, if it is determined that the jackpot pattern is not a high probability jackpot pattern but a normal jackpot pattern, the time-saving flag is set to a value of 1 (S746), and the time-saving counter is set to a value of 100 (S748) in order to generate a time-saving state. Then, the jackpot flag is set to a value of 0 (S750) in order to end the jackpot game, and a game state designation command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 90 (S752), and the jackpot game processing is ended. The game state designation command includes the value of the high probability flag, the value of the time-saving flag, the value of the jackpot flag, and the like.

[0074] Next, various processes executed by the sub-integrated control device 90 that receives various commands from the main control device 60 will be described. As described above, the commands that the sub-integrated control device 90 receives from the main control device 60 include an initial command, a return command, a special chart change start command (first special chart change start command, second special chart change start command), a pattern stop command, a game state designation command, a jackpot game start presentation command, and a jackpot game end presentation command. The processes of the sub-integrated control device 90 that receives various commands include a reservation display presentation process for displaying a reservation in association with the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 23 or the second start hole 24, a pattern change presentation process for executing a pattern change presentation that changes and displays a presentation pattern in association with the display of a special pattern, and a jackpot game presentation process for executing a jackpot game presentation in association with the occurrence of a jackpot. Details of the reservation display presentation process and the pattern change presentation process will be described below. Note that the jackpot game presentation process is not the gist of the present invention, so a description will be omitted.

[0075] [Hold display processing] 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the hold display effect process executed by the CPU 90a of the sub integrated control device 90. It is determined whether or not a special reserved number command has been received (S800). If it is determined that a special reserved number command has not been received, this process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that a special reserved number command has been received, the type of reserved pattern to be added is determined (S805). S805 is a process for determining the generating action of the reserved pattern to be added and the reserved pattern to be added. Note that these generating actions and the type of reserved pattern are determined based on the results of the look-ahead determination, and the results of the look-ahead determination are included in the special reserved number command.

[0076] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20(a), in addition to the default reserved pattern, multiple reserved patterns (also called pre-read reserved patterns) with different jackpot reliability are provided as the pre-read performance, and are selected based on a command indicating the result of the pre-read judgment transmitted from the main control device 60. The reserved patterns are classified by color, and the order of the reliability of the jackpot increases from white, which is the default reserved pattern, to blue, green, and red, which are the pre-read reserved pattern. In addition, a winning sound is output based on the occurrence of reserved memory due to the entry of a special pattern into the starting hole. Note that in FIG. 20(a), colored letters are written in the circle of the reserved pattern for ease of explanation, but the reserved pattern that is actually displayed does not have letters and the reserved pattern of this color is displayed. In addition, as shown in FIG. 20(b), there are three types of actions when the reserved pattern is generated, and the reliability of the jackpot varies depending on the generation action of the reserved pattern. Naturally, the reliability of the jackpot due to the reserved generation action is the reliability of the reserved pattern generated by the generated generation action. Note that the reserved generation action will be described later.

[0077] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 19, when the type of reserved symbol to be added is determined in S805, it is determined whether there is a reserved memory that will result in a reach change among the reserved memories already stored (S810). If there is a reserved memory that will result in a reach, even if the reserved occurrence action and the reserved symbol type determined in S805 are not the default mode, they are all switched to the default mode (S815). If there is no reserved memory that will result in a reach in S810, it is determined whether the special symbol is changing (S820), and if it is changing, it is determined whether the remaining change time is less than 1 second (S825), and if it is less than 1 second, it is switched to the default reserved occurrence action even if the reserved occurrence action determined in S805 is not the default (S830). After the processing of S815 or S830, if S820 is negative or S825 is negative, the reserved symbol increase update process of S835 adds the reserved symbol determined by S805 (or S815, 830) to the reserved symbol display unit 197 by the reserved symbol generation operation determined (S835), and ends this process. In this embodiment, when a reserved memory that becomes a reach is already present or under certain conditions such as the change time of the special symbol being changed being less than 1 second, the reserved symbol generation operation is restricted so that only the default operation is executed, and when a reserved memory that becomes a reach is already present, the type of reserved symbol is restricted so that only the default white reserved symbol is selected. Note that the reserved memory that becomes a reach change is the reserved memory in which either normal reach 1, 2 or SP reach 1, 2 is executed as explained in FIG. 16.

[0078] 21 to 23 show the operation of reserved symbols in this embodiment. These are display examples executed in the normal game state. In FIG. 20(a), in order to make the difference easier to understand, the reserved symbols are shown with letters indicating the color inside the round shapes, but in FIG. 21 to 23, the reserved symbols displayed on the reserved symbol display unit 197 that are white do not have letters inside the round shapes, so the reserved symbols shown only by the round shapes are the default white reserved symbols.

[0079] FIG. 21 is a display example showing the change of the performance pattern 192 and the movement of the reserved pattern. FIG. 21(a) is an example of the performance pattern 192 changing, in which the changing pattern is displayed in the changing pattern display section 196 corresponding to the change, four reserved patterns are displayed in the reserved pattern display section 197, and the reserved memory has accumulated to the upper limit of four. When the change time of the special pattern has elapsed and the change of the performance pattern stops, the changing pattern is erased, and the next change starts, the change display corresponding to the next reserved memory is executed as shown in FIG. 21(b), so that the reserved pattern at the right end, which is the oldest reserved pattern, is moved to the changing pattern display section on the right side to be displayed as a changing pattern, thereby subtracting one reserved pattern, and the remaining reserved patterns are also moved to the right to execute a moving display to fill the space. Then, as shown in FIG. 21(c), the change starts, and the movement of the reserved pattern ends, thereby subtracting one reserved pattern.

[0080] FIG. 22 is an example of when the rotation operation 200 is executed as the reserved occurrence operation. As shown in FIG. 22(a), when a reserved pattern occurs while the performance pattern is fluctuating, as shown in FIG. 22(b), the reserved pattern (rotation operation 200) displayed by rotating horizontally before displaying the reserved pattern shown in FIG. 20(a) is executed as the reserved occurrence operation. It goes without saying that when a new reserved pattern occurs, it is displayed in order from the right side of the reserved pattern display section, so the added reserved pattern is displayed at the leftmost end of that stage. Note that the reserved memory is limited to four, so no more reserved patterns are displayed. Note that when a new reserved pattern occurs when shifting the reserved pattern, it may be made to look like five have been stored artificially. The rotation operation 200 has a higher reliability of being a jackpot than the default operation, and although there is a possibility that a pre-reading pattern will occur directly, it is made so that it is not possible to know which reserved pattern it is at the stage of this rotation operation 200. Of course, it may be made so that it is clear just by looking. Returning to the explanation of FIG. 22, FIG. 22(c) is a display example showing that the rotation operation 200 has ended and blue has been displayed as the reserved symbol.

[0081] FIG. 23 is an example of the case where an explosion action 201 is executed as a reserved generating action. When a reserved pattern is generated while the performance pattern is fluctuating as shown in FIG. 23(a), the reserved pattern (explosion action 201) that is displayed as an explosion before displaying the reserved pattern shown in FIG. 20(a) is executed as a reserved generating action as shown in FIG. 23(b). The explosion action 201 has a higher reliability of being a jackpot than the default action or the rotation action 200, and the possibility of a pre-reading pattern being generated directly is higher than other reserved patterns, but the explosion action 201 is also designed not to know which reserved pattern will be displayed at the operation stage, like the rotation action 200. Of course, it may be made clear by looking. Returning to the explanation of FIG. 23, FIG. 23(c) is a display indicating that the explosion action 201 has ended and red has been displayed as the reserved pattern.

[0082] Although we have omitted the explanation, the default action does not perform any special action but simply displays the reserved pattern, and therefore, as for the operation period until the reserved pattern is properly displayed, the default action simply displays the determined reserved pattern as is, so the generated action ends immediately, but the rotation action 200 and explosion action 201 involve special actions, so the operation time is longer than the default action.

[0083] In this way, the pachinko machine 1 of the first embodiment executes different generating operations when displaying reserved symbols, and since the reliability of the big win differs depending on the type of generating operation, it is possible to make the display when the reserved symbols are generated interesting. In addition, since it is equipped with a pre-reading reserved symbol, players will be interested not only in which generating operation but also which reserved symbol will be displayed, so it is possible to make players enjoy the generation of reserved symbols in a way that has not been possible before, thereby improving interest. And, when the reserved memory occurs when the remaining time of the special pattern during the change is less than 1 second, only the default is executed in the reserved generation operation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the reserved generation operation and the shift movement after the change is stopped from overlapping, which makes the operation complicated. In addition, the higher the jackpot reliability, the larger and longer the generated operation tends to be, and moving the reserved pattern while such a generated operation is being executed may make it difficult to see and disappointing even if a highly reliable performance is executed, and it may be necessary to prepare extra display data for the movement of the generated operation, but since only the default operation is executed, it is possible to prevent such a thing from happening. Furthermore, when there is already a reserved memory that will be a reach change, both the newly generated reserved pattern and the reserved generation operation are executed by default. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the interest in the reach change executed in advance from being shifted to the newly generated reserved pattern, and to concentrate on the reach to be executed. In this embodiment, the reserved generation operation is restricted when any reach change is executed, but it is possible to prevent the restriction from being imposed on the reserved memory that will be a reach performance, not all of them. In that case, it is best to make the unrestricted reach effects less likely to result in a jackpot.

[0084] In addition, when the remaining time of the special symbol during the change is less than 1 second, the reserved generating operation is set to only the default generating operation, but similarly, the reserved symbol generated when there is no reserved memory may be prohibited from being operated except for the default operation. The reserved symbol generated when there is no reserved memory is first displayed on the reserved symbol display unit 197, but then it is immediately moved to the changing symbol display unit 196, so there is almost no time, so it is possible to prevent the reserved generating operation from overlapping with the shift movement after the change is stopped, resulting in a complicated operation. In addition, when there is no reserved memory, instead of a configuration in which it is once displayed on the reserved symbol display unit 197, when the changing symbol is directly displayed on the changing symbol display unit 196, the generating operation may be performed on the changing symbol in the same way as the reserved symbol. In this embodiment, the reserved change effect may be executed so that the reserved pattern displayed changes to a different reserved pattern. In this case, if there is a reserved memory that will result in a reach change, the reserved change effect may be prohibited from being executed or may be changed after the reach change has ended. This makes it possible to concentrate the reach change on the player, as if the reserved generation operation and reserved pattern were prohibited from being other than the default. In addition, the execution time of the reserved change effect is determined at the time of the additional reserved pattern determination process in S805, and if the timing is such that a special effect is executed at the timing of the determined execution time, or if the time for the change effect is short and there is not enough time to execute the change effect, the reserved change is not forcibly performed. In this case, a timing for changing at a different timing may be created somewhere on behalf of the player, or if the change effect is executed at a different timing, the amount executed by the change effect may be changed all at once.

[0085] The reserved symbols are shown by the type according to the color of the round figure, but they may be in different forms. Also, a plurality of presentation modes may be provided so that the form of the reserved symbols differs depending on the presentation mode. In this case, the generation operation of the reserved symbols may be different. For example, in presentation mode A, the reserved symbols and reserved generation operation similar to those in embodiment 1 are executed, and in presentation mode B, the reserved symbols are triangular figures with different colors that indicate the reliability of a big win, and the reserved generation operation is also different from that in presentation mode A, and for example, the reserved symbols may be generated by an action that seems to collide from the back of the screen to the front, or the reserved symbols may be displayed as if they are falling from outside the reserved symbol display area, and different generation operations may be executed depending on the presentation mode. In addition, when a reserved memory is generated by winning the starting hole, a special sound is output as a look-ahead performance or a lamp installed around the starting hole is illuminated to indicate that a reserved memory with a high probability of winning has been generated, but even in such a performance, if there is a reserved memory in which a reach fluctuation is executed, it cannot be executed, but if the remaining fluctuation time is less than 1 second, it may be executed regardless. Since the look-ahead performance is not related to the performance display, the processing does not become particularly complicated even in a situation where the remaining fluctuation time is short, so there is no particular need for a restriction here, and it is possible to refrain from forcibly restricting the execution of the look-ahead performance.

[0086] In addition, when the variation time of the variation being executed is less than 1 second, only the default action is executed as the reserved generating action, but simplified versions may be provided as the spinning action 200 and the explosion action 201, and these simplified versions may be executed. By making the time of the simplified version of the generating action short, it is possible to execute the generating action without discomfort by immediately ending the generating action even if the spinning action 200 or the explosion action 201 is executed when the remaining variation time is short. In addition, the generating action is set as the default, but the sound (also called the winning sound) when the reserved pattern is generated may be a special sound, or the sound at the time of each generating action may be output.

[0087] In this embodiment, the execution of the reserved generating operation for the reserved symbol of the first special symbol in the normal game state has been described. However, in the time-saving state, etc., the reserved symbol of the second special symbol will be displayed. However, since the time-saving state has a short fluctuation time and it is basically a state in which there is a high possibility that the next fluctuation will start while the reserved generating operation is being executed and the reserved symbol will move, it is better not to execute the reserved generating operation during the time-saving state, or it is better to configure it so that there is a higher possibility of a jackpot than in the normal game state, thereby increasing the benefits.

[0088] In the embodiment, the present invention has been described as being applied to a so-called seven-machine type gaming machine, but is not limited to this and may also be applied to a so-called type 1 / type 2 mixed machine which has a specific area inside a large prize opening which opens during a small win game, and in which a gaming ball enters the large prize opening during a small win game, and when the entering gaming ball passes through the specific area, it progresses to a large win game.

[0089] In the embodiment, the game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall are paid out to the upper tray 11 as prize balls or loan balls, but it may be a so-called sealed type pachinko machine. The sealed type pachinko machine plays games by circulating the game balls sealed inside. The pachinko machines of the embodiment and the modified example may be applied to a so-called managed game machine. The managed game machine restricts external access to the main control device, and allows only specific information (information that affects the performance of the game or information that may affect the result of the game) to be transmitted from the frame control device (corresponding to the payout control device in the embodiment) to the main control device, and the frame control device is connected to the CR unit and is configured to be able to communicate with the outside only via the frame control device.

[0090] The correspondence between the main elements of the embodiment and the main elements of the invention described in the section on means for solving the problem will be explained. In the embodiment, S200, S202, and S204 or S210, S212, and S214 of the start winning process correspond to an example of a reserved storage means, the performance display device 37 corresponds to an example of a predetermined display device, the rotation action 200 and the explosion action 201 correspond to an example of a first generating action, and the default action corresponds to an example of a second generating action. In addition, the correspondence between the main elements of the Examples and the main elements of the invention described in the Means for Solving the Problem column does not limit the elements of the invention described in the Means for Solving the Problem column, since the Examples are examples for specifically explaining the form for implementing the invention described in the Means for Solving the Problem column. In other words, the interpretation of the invention described in the Means for Solving the Problem column should be made based on the description in that column, and the Examples are merely a specific example of the invention described in the Means for Solving the Problem column.

[0091] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above using examples, the present invention is not limited to these examples in any way, and it is of course possible to carry out the present invention in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1 Pachinko machine, 2 Outer frame, 3 Front frame, 3a Front frame opening switch, 4 Glass plate, 5 Inner frame, 5a Inner frame opening switch, 11 Upper tray, 12 Lower tray, 13 Launch handle, 14 Speaker, 15 LED, 16 Performance button, 16a Performance button switch, 20 Game board, 21 Game area, 21a Outer rail, 21b Inner rail, 21c Nail, 22 Normal pattern activation gate, 23 First start port, 24 Second start port, 25 Large prize port, 27 Normal prize port, Out port, 31 First special pattern display device (First special pattern display device), 32 Second special pattern display device (Second special pattern display device), 33 First special pattern reserved number display device (First special pattern reserved number display device), 34 Second special pattern reserved number display device (Second special pattern reserved number display device), 35 Ordinary pattern display device (ordinary pattern display device), 36 ordinary pattern reserved number display device (ordinary pattern reserved number display device), 37 performance display device, 192 performance pattern (pseudo pattern), 196 varying pattern display section, 197 reserved pattern display section, 50 CR unit, 51 CR unit terminal board, 52 settlement display device, 53 ball lending button, 53a ball lending switch, 54 settlement button, 54a settlement switch, 60 main control device, 60a CPU, 60b ROM, 60c RAM, 90 sub integrated control device, 90a CPU, 90b ROM, 90c RAM, 91 performance display control device, 200 rotation operation, 201 explosion operation.

Claims

1. A reserve storage means for acquiring a random number for determining whether or not a winning / losing decision is made based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, and for retaining and storing the acquired random number for determining whether or not a winning / losing decision is made up to a predetermined number; A winning / loosening determination means for executing a winning / loosening determination of the stored winning / loosening random number based on the establishment of a winning / loosening condition; A symbol changing means for changing symbols for a predetermined period of time in accordance with a result of the match determination means and then notifying a result in accordance with a stopped symbol; A special game execution means for transitioning to a special game state advantageous to a player when a winning notification is executed by the symbol changing means, A reserved symbol display means for displaying a reserved symbol corresponding to the reserved and stored random number for determining whether or not a win has been determined on a predetermined display device; A generating operation execution means includes at least a first generating operation and a second generating operation that executes a generating operation different from the first generating operation as a generating operation executed when the reserved symbol is displayed, The generating action executing means executes only the second generating action as the generating action under a specific condition.

2. A pre-judgment means for judging the reserved random number for the judgment of correctness in advance before the judgment of correctness is performed; A reserved symbol determination means for selecting and determining the reserved symbol to be displayed based on the judgment result of the advance judgment means from a plurality of reserved symbols having different winning reliabilities; The specific conditions include a first specific condition and a second specific condition, The gaming machine described in claim 1, characterized in that the reserved pattern determination means makes it possible to select from among the plurality of reserved patterns under the first specific condition, but displays only a predetermined reserved pattern under the second specific condition.

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