Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine causing a player to have interest in presentation timing of a specific prediction presentation suggesting that there is a possibility of a specific display result to be displayed and thereby enabling effective improvement in amusement of games.SOLUTION: A specific prediction presentation is provided, suggesting that there is a possibility of a specific display result to be displayed. When the specific prediction presentation is to be performed, there is a plurality of pieces of timing at which the specific prediction presentation is to be performed. The timing at which the specific prediction presentation is to be performed in one variation presentation is caused to be different according to an advantageous degree obtained by the specific display result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 44

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention can be suitably applied to gaming machines such as pinball gaming machines and reel gaming machines. [Background technology]

[0002] A gaming machine (pinball gaming machine) is equipped with a reserve storage means capable of storing a predetermined number of numerical data acquired based on the entry of a gaming ball into a starting hole, and when an execution condition is established, a win / loss determination is executed based on the numerical data stored in the reserve storage means. Then, when the result of the win / loss determination becomes a specific result (big win, small win, etc.), a gaming machine is known that executes a special game (big win game, small win game, etc.) that is advantageous to the player. Among such gaming machines, there are some that can perform a performance in which a result of a win / loss judgment is read ahead (pre-judgment) before the execution conditions of the win / loss judgment are met, and the result of the pre-judgment is announced (hereinafter referred to as a pre-reading performance). Furthermore, various improvements have been proposed for this type of gaming machine, with the intention of increasing the interest of players.

[0003] For example, when the next jackpot is guaranteed, such as when there is a beneficial state such as a time-saving state that continues until the next jackpot is won after a jackpot, or when a so-called reserved consecutive win occurs, a gaming machine has been proposed that executes an effect that notifies the player that the next jackpot is confirmed (see Patent Document 1, hereinafter also referred to as the conventional example). In this conventional gaming machine, a release effect is executed in which a winning ball is released in the winning fluctuation after the notification that the next jackpot is confirmed, resulting in a jackpot. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-33248 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in conventional notifications such as this conventional example, a release effect is performed in which a ball is released when a winning combination occurs. When the release effect is performed, it means that a big win has occurred, so the player is interested in whether or not the release effect will be performed, but is not interested in when the release effect will be performed; as long as the release effect is performed, that is sufficient, so this is insufficient in terms of increasing the player's interest, and there is still room for improvement.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has an object to provide a gaming machine that can effectively increase interest in gaming. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A gaming machine that, after a start condition is established, performs a variable display of identification information based on the establishment of the start condition, and can transition to a specific game state selected from a plurality of specific game states having different advantageous degrees based on a specific display result displayed by the variable display, A configuration in which a change performance is performed in response to the change display, A specific preview effect is provided which suggests that the specific display result may be displayed, When the specific advance notice performance is executed, there are a plurality of timings at which the specific advance notice performance is executed, and the timing at which the specific advance notice performance is executed in one variation performance is set based on the type of the selected specific game state. A gaming machine characterized by:

[0008] According to the gaming machine of the present invention, there are a plurality of timings at which the specific advance notice performance is executed, and the timing at which the specific advance notice performance in one variation performance is executed is set based on the type of the specific game state selected. In this way, the timing of the specific preview performance is set based on the type of specific game state from a plurality of timings, so the player is not only interested in the execution of the specific preview performance, but also in the timing at which it will be executed, and the player can be made interested in the execution timing as well, further increasing the enjoyment of the game. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] 13 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the big prize opening provided on the game board. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pinball game machine. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the inside of an MPU mounted on a main control device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the inside of a random number circuit provided in an MPU. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing the inside of the power supply board. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the game specifications of the pinball game machine. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a first explanatory diagram regarding the conditions for ending the bonus game state of the pinball game machine. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a second explanatory diagram regarding the conditions for ending the bonus game state of the pinball game machine. [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a third explanatory diagram regarding the conditions for ending the bonus game state of the pinball game machine. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing the "start-up process" executed by the main control device of the pinball game machine. [Figure 14] 1 is a first flowchart showing the "interrupt processing" executed by the main control device of the pinball game machine. [Figure 15] 2 is a second flowchart showing the "interrupt processing" executed by the main control device of the pinball game machine. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing an "input determination process" executed in the interrupt process. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart showing the "special ball entry confirmation process" executed during the input judgment process. [Figure 18]This is a flowchart showing the "normal ball entry confirmation process" executed during the input judgment process. [Figure 19] This is a flowchart showing the "pass / fail determination process" executed during the interrupt process. [Figure 20] This is the first flowchart showing the "general pass / fail determination process" executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 21] This is a second flowchart showing the "general pass / fail determination process" executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Figure 22] This is a third flowchart showing the "general pass / fail determination process" executed during the pass / fail determination process. [Diagram 23] This is the first flowchart showing the "regular game processing" executed during the regular game win / loss determination processing. [Figure 24] This is a second flowchart showing the "regular game processing" executed during the regular game win / loss determination processing. [Diagram 25] This is the first flowchart showing the "special chart win / loss determination process" executed during the win / loss determination process. [Figure 26] This is a second flowchart showing the "special chart win / loss determination process" executed during the win / loss determination process. [Figure 27] This is a third flowchart showing the "special chart correct / incorrect determination process" executed during the correct / incorrect determination process. [Figure 28] This is the fourth flowchart showing the "special chart hit / miss judgment process" executed during the hit / miss judgment process. [Figure 29] This is the fifth flowchart showing the "special chart correct / incorrect determination process" executed during the correct / incorrect determination process. [Diagram 30] This is a first flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 31] This is a second flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 32] This is a third flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 33]This is a fourth flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special game winning / losing determination processing. [Diagram 34] This is the fifth flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special drawing win / loss determination processing. [Diagram 35] This is the sixth flowchart showing the "special game processing" executed during the special drawing win / loss determination processing. [Diagram 36] This is a flowchart showing the "hold consecutive announcement performance processing" executed by the sub-integrated control device of the pinball game machine. [Figure 37] This is a flowchart showing the "final variation presentation processing" executed by the sub-integrated control device of the pinball game machine. [Figure 38] This is a timing chart for the implementation of preview and special effects. [Figure 39] 11 is a first display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display. [Diagram 40] 13 is a second display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display. [Diagram 41] 13 is a third display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display. [Diagram 42] 4 is a fourth display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display. [Diagram 43] 5 is a fifth display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display. [Diagram 44] 6 is a sixth display example showing a display mode relating to a performance display.

[0010] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, a pinball game machine (pachinko machine) of a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the external configuration of a pachinko machine 1 in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4.

[0011] (1. Schematic Configuration of Pachinko Machine 1) As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine that can be played by a player, and is installed in a gaming facility.

[0012] (1-1: Front structure of pachinko machine 1) As shown in Fig. 1, pachinko machine 1 has a structure in which each component is held by an outer frame 10 that forms a vertically long fixed outer shell holding frame. A front frame (glass frame) 11 into which a glass plate 110 is fitted and an inner frame 30 (see Fig. 4) are provided so as to be openable and closable via hinges 101, 101 provided at upper and lower positions on the left side of the outer frame 10. The front frame 11 and inner frame 30 are locked to the outer frame 10 by a cylinder lock 18, and the inner frame 30 can be opened by inserting a specified key into the cylinder lock 18 and turning the key clockwise to open the inner frame 30, and by turning it counterclockwise to open the front frame 11. Behind the glass plate 110 of the front frame 11, a game board 2 (see FIG. 2) held by an inner frame 30 is provided.

[0013] Speakers 112, 112 are installed on both the left and right sides of the upper part of the front frame 11, which output game sounds to enhance the entertainment value of the game. The front frame 11 is also provided with frame side decorative lamps 113 that emit light according to the game status, as well as LEDs that notify of abnormalities in the game.

[0014] An upper tray 12 and a lower tray 13 are integrally formed in the lower half of the front frame 11. A launching handle 14 is provided on the right side of the lower tray 13, and by operating the launching handle 14 clockwise, the launching device is activated and game balls supplied from the upper tray 12 are launched toward the game board 2. Prize balls are also paid out onto the upper tray 12. The lower tray 13 is configured to receive prize balls that overflow from the upper tray 12, and by operating a ball removal lever, the game balls that have accumulated on the lower tray 13 can be transferred to a separate box (dollar box) provided in the gaming facility.

[0015] This pachinko machine 1 is a so-called CR machine, and is adjacent to a prepaid card unit (CR unit) CR that reads and writes prepaid cards. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a ball loan switch 171, a settlement switch 172, and a settlement display of the settlement display device 170 on the right side of the upper tray 12. In addition, in the center of the upper tray 12, there is a performance button 15 that can be operated by the player, and a jog dial 16 that surrounds the outer periphery.

[0016] (1-2: Configuration of the game board of the pachinko machine 1) As shown in Fig. 2, the game board 2 has a substantially circular game area 20 surrounded by an outer rail 201 and an inner rail 202. A center case 200 is attached to the game area at a position near the upper center. This divides the game area 20 into a left-hand hitting area L where game balls flow down when shot with a predetermined strength, and a right-hand hitting area R where game balls flow down when shot with a strength stronger than the predetermined strength. Numerous game nails and windmills are planted in the game area 20.

[0017] An LCD panel of a performance pattern display device 46 (not shown in its entirety) is disposed in the center of the center case 200. The center case 200 is also provided with a warp entrance, warp gutter, stage, etc., in the same manner as known in the art.

[0018] Directly below the center of the center case 200 in the left-right direction, a first special pattern start hole 23 for a first special pattern (hereinafter, simply referred to as the first special pattern) that can always be entered is disposed. The first special pattern start hole 23 is a ball entry hole that causes a hit / miss judgment of the first special pattern to be executed by a ball entering. When a ball enters the first special pattern start hole 23, multiple types of random numbers (numerical data) such as a random number for determining a jackpot for the first special pattern, a random number for determining a jackpot pattern for the first special pattern, and a random number for determining a variation pattern of the first special pattern are extracted and used for the hit / miss judgment. The extracted random numbers of the first special pattern are stored as reserved memories up to a maximum of four (a prescribed number). The pachinko machine 1 sequentially executes hit / miss judgment of the first special pattern based on these reserved memories, and judges whether it is a hit or a miss.

[0019] In the left hitting area L, a plurality of general winning holes 27 are arranged to the left of and directly below the first special chart starting hole 23.

[0020] In the right hitting area R, a normal symbol operation port 21 is disposed to the right of the center case 200. The normal symbol operation port 21 is a gate through which a game ball can enter and pass, and whether or not a normal symbol (hereinafter simply referred to as a normal symbol) is determined based on the ball passing through. When a game ball enters the normal symbol operation port 21, multiple types of random numbers (numerical data) are extracted, and these random numbers are stored as reserved memory for the normal symbol.

[0021] In the right-hand hitting area R, a normal electric device 22 (hereinafter, simply referred to as a normal electric device) is arranged downstream of the normal play opening 21. The normal electric device 22 has a pair of left and right wings that can be opened and closed, and is a ball entry device that is usually difficult for a game ball to enter. Then, when the normal play is judged to be a winning combination, the wings are opened in a predetermined opening manner, making it possible for the ball to enter.

[0022] The normal power role 22 has a second special symbol start hole 24 arranged inside. The second special symbol start hole 24 is configured so that only the game ball that has entered the normal power role 22 can enter. The second special symbol start hole 24 is a ball entry hole that causes a hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the second special symbol) to be executed due to the ball entering it. When the ball enters the second special symbol start hole 24, multiple types of random numbers (numerical data) such as a random number for determining a big hit of the second special symbol, a random number for determining a big hit pattern of the second special symbol, and a random number for determining a variation pattern of the second special symbol are extracted and used for the hit / miss judgment. The extracted random numbers of the second special symbol are stored as reserved memories up to a maximum of four (a prescribed number). The pachinko machine 1 sequentially executes hit / miss judgment of the second special symbol based on these reserved memories, and judges whether it is a big hit, a small hit, or a miss.

[0023] Furthermore, in the right-hand hitting area R, a first large prize winning hole 25 that can be opened and closed by a first special electric door of a first special electric device is arranged downstream of the normal electric device 22. The first large prize winning hole 25 is opened in a predetermined manner in a big win game performed when the first or second special device is hit, and is configured to allow a game ball to enter when it is opened.

[0024] Furthermore, in the right-hand hitting area R, a second large winning opening 26 is arranged downstream of the first large winning opening 25, and is provided so as to be openable and closable by a second special electric door of the second special electric device. The second large winning opening 26 is opened in a predetermined manner in a small winning game performed when a small winning occurs on the second special chart, and is configured so that a game ball can enter when it is opened. The second large winning opening 26 is a winning device having a specific area 262, which is a V winning opening, and a shutter 263 that determines whether or not the game ball enters the specific area 262.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 3, the second large winning opening 26 is provided with a ball entrance 260 whose upper end can be opened and closed by a second special electric door, and game balls can enter when the second special electric door is open. The game balls that enter the ball entrance 260 are taken in from the center of the ball entrance 260 and sent into the device through a sending outlet 261 formed in a tunnel shape.

[0026] The second large prize winning opening 26 has a specific area 262 located at the lower center inside. The specific area 262 is an area where a small win game can develop into a big win game (a special big win) when a game ball enters it. A shutter 263 for closing or opening the specific area 262 is provided between the outlet 261 and an upper position of the specific area 262. The shutter 263 is a pair of left and right opening / closing bodies that are joined together in a palm-to-palm manner to close the specific area 262, and opens left and right to open the specific area 262. The shutter 263 constantly repeats a certain opening and closing operation.

[0027] When the shutter 263 is open, the game ball sent out from the outlet 261 enters a specific area 262, and when the shutter 263 is closed, the game ball is taken into the game board through a pair of intake ports 264, 264 provided on both the left and right sides of the shutter 263 and is discharged from the second large prize port 26.

[0028] In addition, the probability of the second large prize opening 26 entering the specific area 262 changes depending on the timing of opening of the ball entrance 260 and the operation of the shutter 263. Therefore, by adjusting the opening timing of the ball entrance 260 with respect to the shutter 263 that opens and closes constantly, it is possible to control the probability of the ball entering the specific area 262. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present invention, the probability of the ball entering the specific area 262 is set to 100%.

[0029] A game ball that enters the second large winning opening 26 is detected by a ball detection sensor (first count switch 506 described later, see FIG. 5) provided in the ball entrance 260 and is counted as a winning ball. In addition, the game balls that enter the specific area 262 and the game balls taken into each of the intake openings 264, 264 are compared with the count of the winning balls to confirm the presence or absence of game balls remaining in the second large winning opening 26.

[0030] Returning to FIG. 2, the game board 2 has an outlet 203 for taking in game balls located at the bottom of the board surface at the lower center end of the game area 20.

[0031] In the game board 2, in the outer area of ​​the outer rail 201 at the lower right end, a first special chart display device 281 and a second special chart display device 283 consisting of a 7-segment display device, and a first special chart reserved number display device 282 and a second special chart reserved number display device 284 consisting of four LED displays are arranged. Also arranged in the same area are a normal symbol display device 285 and a normal symbol reserved number display device 286, both of which are made up of multiple LED displays.

[0032] (1-3: Backside structure of the pachinko machine 1) Figure 4 shows the backside of the pachinko machine 1, and the backside of the pachinko machine 1 houses an inner frame 30 to which the game board 2 is detachably attached. The inner frame 30 is hinged to the outer frame 10 at the top and bottom positions of one side edge (right side of Figure 4) in the same way as the front frame 11, and is installed so as to be able to open and close. A game ball flow passage is formed in the inner frame 30, and a ball tank 31, a tank rail 32, and a payout unit 33 are provided from the top (upstream), and a payout mechanism is provided in the payout unit 33. With this structure, when a game ball enters the winning hole of the game board 2, a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) are paid out from the ball tank 31 through the tank rail 32 by the payout unit 33 through the payout ball flow passage to the upper tray 12. In addition, the payout unit 33, which pays out prize balls, also pays out loan balls that are paid out by operating the ball loan switch 171.

[0033] On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a main control device 40, a payout control device 41, a sub-integrated control device 42, a performance pattern control device 43, a launch control device 44, and a power supply board 45 are provided. The main control device 40, the sub integrated control device 42, and the performance symbol control device 43 are provided on the game board 2, and the payout control device 41, the launch control device 44, and the power supply board 45 are provided on the inner frame 30. The launch control device 44 is not shown in FIG. 4, but is provided on the back side of the power supply board 45.

[0034] The main control device 40 is provided with an RWM clear switch (SW) 401 and a setting key switch (SW) 402. The RWM clear switch 401 is mainly operated when clearing game information and the like stored in the RWM 630 (RAM, see FIG. 6) built into the main control device 40. The RWM clear switch 401 may be disposed in the payout control device 41 or the power supply board 45.

[0035] The setting key switch 402 is a key switch mechanism that is turned on by turning a key inserted in a keyhole in one direction. The pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine with a setting function that allows the jackpot probability setting to be changed by the operation of an employee of the gaming facility, etc., and the employee of the gaming facility, etc., can change and check the jackpot probability setting by turning on the power with the setting key switch 402 turned on. The RWM clear switch 401 is also operated when changing the jackpot probability setting.

[0036] Furthermore, the main control device 40 is provided with a performance display device 403 consisting of four 7-segment LED displays. By providing the performance display device 403 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, the performance display device 403 can be placed in a position that is not visible to the player during play.

[0037] In addition, the payout control device 41 is provided with a fraud notification lamp 410 that lights up an LED when the main control device 40 determines that fraud has occurred, thereby notifying employees of the gaming facility, etc., that fraud has occurred.

[0038] On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, to the right of the ball tank 31, an external connection terminal board 38 is arranged, and signals indicating the game status and game results are sent to the hall computer 500 (see FIG. 5) by the external connection terminal board 38. Conventionally, two types of external connection terminal boards for sending signals to the hall computer 500 have been used: one for the board (terminals for outputting signals output from the game board side to the hall computer 500) and one for the frame side (terminals for outputting signals output from the outer frame 10, front frame 11, and inner frame 30 to the hall computer 500). In this embodiment, signals indicating the game status and game results are sent to the hall computer 500 via a single external connection terminal board 38.

[0039] (1-4: Operation of the Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the operation of the Pachinko machine 1 will be explained. When a game ball enters the normal symbol operation port 21, the Pachinko machine 1 extracts multiple random numbers related to the normal symbol hit / miss judgment, and judges the hit / miss based on the extracted random numbers. Based on the result of this hit / miss judgment, the Pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 285, and displays the fixed image after a predetermined time.

[0040] If the result of the hit / miss judgment is a hit, the pachinko machine 1 opens the normal power device 22 and allows the ball to enter the second special chart starting hole 24. The opening time and number of times of the normal power device 22 are set to, for example, 0.2 seconds x 1 time in a normal game state, and 2.0 seconds x 1 time in a game state advantageous to the player (normal power device support state described later).

[0041] The pachinko machine 1 judges whether or not the winning / losing is based on the random number value of the reserved memory generated by the ball entering the first special symbol starting hole 23, and judges whether or not the winning / losing is a big win. Based on the result of this judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 281, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed. The pachinko machine 1 also starts the variable display of the pseudo performance symbol 700 (see FIG. 39) corresponding to the first special symbol on the performance symbol display device 46, and displays the final result after a predetermined time has passed.

[0042] Similarly, the pachinko machine 1 determines whether the winning or losing is a hit based on the random number value of the reserved memory generated as a result of the ball entering the second special chart starting hole 24, and determines whether the winning is a big hit, a small hit, or a miss. Based on this win / loss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 283, and displays the finalized second special symbol after a predetermined time has elapsed. Also, the pachinko machine 1 starts the variable display of the pseudo performance symbol 700 corresponding to the second special symbol on the performance symbol display device 46, and displays the finalized second special symbol after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0043] The first and second special symbols are displayed in small size at the corners of the game board 2. The pachinko machine 1 performs a pseudo performance display using pseudo performance symbols 700 corresponding to the first and second special symbols on the performance symbol display device 46 provided in the center of the game area 20, and notifies the player of the result of the hit / miss judgment through the pseudo performance display. The pachinko machine 1 performs a variable display of three pseudo performance symbols 700 in the pseudo performance display, and if the result of the hit / miss judgment is a jackpot, stops the three pseudo performance symbols 700 with the same symbol. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 performs a reach performance in which two pseudo performance symbols 700 are stopped with the same symbol in the pseudo performance display, and the remaining one pseudo performance symbol 700 is displayed with a variable display, thereby giving the player a sense of expectation that the hit / miss judgment will be a jackpot.

[0044] In the pachinko machine 1, if the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first or second special symbol is a hit according to the state of the confirmed display of the first or second special symbol, a hit game is performed. In this hit game, the pachinko machine 1 operates a condition device, and in response to this, the role continuous operation device operates to open and close the first large prize winning hole 25. Specifically, the pachinko machine 1 closes the first large prize winning hole 25 when a predetermined time (e.g., 29 seconds) has elapsed since the first large prize winning hole 25 was opened, or when the number of game balls that have entered the first large prize winning hole 25 since the first large prize winning hole 25 was opened reaches a specified number of winning balls (10 balls in this embodiment), and performs a round game a predetermined number of times, with one round being a series of operations.

[0045] In the jackpot game, the number of rounds to be played is determined according to the jackpot pattern determined when the first or second special pattern is judged to be a hit or miss. For example, the jackpot game is determined from multiple types of jackpot games, such as a 4R jackpot game in which rounds are played for 4 rounds or a 15R jackpot game in which rounds are played for 15 rounds, depending on the jackpot pattern.

[0046] If the result of the judgment of whether the second special symbol is a win or not is a small win according to the state of the confirmed display of the second special symbol, the pachinko machine 1 executes a small win game. In the case of a small win game, the pachinko machine 1 opens and closes the second large winning hole 26 without operating the condition device and the role continuous operation device. In the small win game, for example, an opening operation is executed once to open the second large winning hole 26 for 1.8 seconds.

[0047] In the pachinko machine 1, a special jackpot occurs when a game ball enters the specific area 262 of the second large winning hole 26 that has been opened in the small winning game. In the special jackpot, a condition device is activated, and the special continuous operation device is activated in response to the condition device, thereby opening and closing the first large winning hole 25. In the jackpot game due to the special jackpot, the number of round games to be played is determined according to the small winning symbol determined when the second special symbol is hit or lost. For example, in the jackpot game, one game is determined from multiple types of jackpot games, such as a 3R jackpot game with 3 rounds, a 5R jackpot game with 5 rounds, a 7R jackpot game with 7 rounds, a 9R jackpot game with 9 rounds, a 13R jackpot game with 13 rounds, or a 15R jackpot game with 15 rounds, depending on the small winning symbol.

[0048] When a jackpot game occurs due to a pattern jackpot or a jackpot with a special feature during normal game play, the pachinko machine 1 can transition to a bonus game state after the jackpot game ends, which is advantageous for the player to win small jackpots and prize balls, depending on the jackpot pattern or small jackpot pattern of the first special pattern or second special pattern that caused the jackpot game.

[0049] Specifically, in the special play state, the probability of winning when the normal figure is judged to be a hit or a miss is set to be high (normal figure probability change function), the time for the normal figure to fluctuate due to the hit or miss judgment of the normal figure is shortened (time-saving function), and the opening time of the normal electric device 22 that is opened by the winning of the normal figure is extended (opening extension function). In this way, in the special play state, it is easy for the ball to enter the second special figure start hole 24, and the probability of winning a small hit is high in the hit or miss judgment of the second special figure, which is advantageous for winning a small hit, and it is easy to develop from a small hit to a big hit of the device, so it is an extremely advantageous state for winning prize balls. The special play state is also called a normal electric support state. Of course, in the normal electric support state, right hitting aiming at the right hitting area R is recommended.

[0050] The normal power support state has multiple types of termination conditions set, and when the termination conditions are met, the state is terminated and the game returns to the normal game state. The normal power support state is basically configured to terminate the state by the occurrence of a jackpot of the first special pattern in the normal power support state, a jackpot of the second special pattern, or a jackpot of the second special pattern caused by a small jackpot.

[0051] Furthermore, the normal power support state is configured to end the continuation of the state when the number of times the pattern changes in association with the hit / miss judgment of the first special chart in the normal power support state reaches a specified "first limit number of times" as a termination condition for the state. The normal power support state is also configured to end the continuation of the state when the number of times the pattern changes in association with the hit / miss judgment of the second special chart in the normal power support state reaches a specified "second limit number of times". The normal power support state is also configured to end the continuation of the state when the sum of the number of times the pattern changes in association with the hit / miss judgment of the first special chart in the normal power support state and the number of times the pattern changes in association with the hit / miss judgment of the second special chart reaches a specified "third limit number of times". The normal power support state continues until any of these termination conditions is met.

[0052] The pachinko machine 1 is configured to transition to a normal power support state that is favorable for winning small wins after the end of a big win game. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 performs a reserved consecutive announcement performance on the performance pattern display device 46 just before the end of a big win game. The reserved consecutive announcement performance is a performance that uses the result of a look-ahead judgment to suggest that there is a memory that has the possibility of a small win or a pattern jackpot in the reserved memory that exists at the time when the big win game is about to end, and that there is a possibility that jackpots can be won consecutively, and is intended to increase the player's expectations. Note that the pachinko machine 1 is configured to perform a reserved consecutive announcement performance when the probability of a small win game resulting in a jackpot with a special feature is almost 100%, and if there is a small win in the reserved memory, it performs a reserved consecutive announcement performance.

[0053] In addition, in the normal power support state, the pachinko machine 1 performs an electric support final change performance on the performance pattern display device 46 in response to a change associated with a hit / miss judgment of the last second special pattern that ends the normal power support state. The electric support final change performance, for example, performs a performance in which the last second special pattern change in the normal power support state and the reserved memory change existing at this point are displayed as if they were one change. In this case, if the last change in the normal power support state is a hit (small hit or pattern big hit), the electric support final change performance notifies the hit and the performance ends. In other words, the reserved memory changes are not performed together. Also, if the reserved memory change performed after the last change in the normal power support state is a hit, a performance is performed in which the last change is grouped together with the reserved memory change that becomes a hit, and a hit is notified. On the other hand, if the last change in the normal power support state and the reserved memory changes performed thereafter are all misses, a performance is performed in which the last change is grouped together with all reserved memory changes, and a miss is notified.

[0054] (2. Electrical Configuration of Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The pachinko machine 1 is configured with a main control device 40 that controls the game progress, etc., and sub-control devices including a payout control device 41, a sub-integrated control device 42, a performance symbol control device 43, and a launch control device 44. The main control device 40, the payout control device 41, the sub-integrated control device 42, and the performance symbol control device 43 are all equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, input ports, output ports, etc., and each of these control devices starts a program consisting of a main routine and a subroutine loaded in the ROM in response to an interrupt signal with a 2 ms or 4 ms cycle by the CPU, and various controls are executed. The main control device 40 also has a random number counter that extracts various random numbers, etc.

[0055] In this embodiment, the launch control device 44 is not provided with a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. However, this is not limited to this, and the launch control device 44 may be provided with a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc.

[0056] (2-1: Main Control Unit 40) As shown in Fig. 5, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 1 is centered around the main control unit 40, which is mainly responsible for controlling the game. The main control unit 40 is electrically connected to the hall computer 500 or the test firing device (not shown) via the back wiring relay terminal board 530 and the external connection terminal board 38. The output signal from the main control unit 40 is sent to the hall computer 500 or the test firing device via the back wiring relay terminal board 530 and the external connection terminal board 38.

[0057] A glass frame opening switch 501, which detects whether the front frame 11 (see FIG. 1) is open or not, and an inner frame opening switch 502, which detects whether the inner frame 30 (see FIG. 4) is open or not, are connected to the main control device 40 via a rear wiring relay terminal board 530. The glass frame opening switch 501 and the inner frame opening switch 502 output their respective detection signals to the main control device 40. In addition, in FIG. 5, "switch" is written as "SW."

[0058] In addition, the main control device 40 is connected, via the game board relay terminal board 531, to a first special symbol start port switch 503 which detects a ball entering the first special symbol start port 23 (see Figure 2), a second special symbol start port switch 504 which detects a ball entering the second special symbol start port 24 (see Figure 2), a normal symbol operation switch 505 which detects a ball entering the normal symbol operation port 21 (see Figure 2), a first count switch 506 which counts the number of balls entering the first large prize port 25 (see Figure 2), a second count switch 507 which counts the number of balls entering the second large prize port 26 (see Figure 2), a V prize port switch 508 which detects balls entering the specific area 262 (see Figure 2), a general prize port switch 509 which detects balls entering the general prize port 27 (see Figure 2), and an out port switch 510 which detects game balls taken into the out port 203. Then, the first special symbol start port switch 503, the second special symbol start port switch 504, the normal symbol activation switch 505, the first count switch 506, the second count switch 507, the V winning port switch 508, the general winning port switch 509 and the out port switch 510 output their respective detection signals to the main control device 40.

[0059] Furthermore, the main control device 40 is connected to the first large prize opening solenoid 511 via the game board relay terminal board 531, and drives the solenoid to control the opening and closing of the first large prize opening 25 (see FIG. 2). Furthermore, the main control device 40 is connected to the second large prize opening solenoid 512 via the game board relay terminal board 531, and drives the solenoid to control the opening and closing of the second large prize opening 26 (see FIG. 2). Furthermore, the main control device 40 is connected to the normal power device solenoid 513 via the game board relay terminal board 531, and drives the solenoid to control the opening and closing of the normal power device 22 (see FIG. 2). Furthermore, the main control device 40 is connected to the shutter solenoid 514 via the game board relay terminal board 531, and drives the solenoid to control the opening and closing of the shutter 263 (see FIG. 3) of the second large prize opening 26. In FIG. 5, the "solenoid" is written as "SOL".

[0060] The main control device 40 operates according to the installed program. The main control device 40 generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on various detection signals, etc., and outputs the commands to the payout control device 41 and the sub-integrated control device 42. Furthermore, the main control device 40 controls the display of the first special symbol display device 281, the first special symbol reserved number display device 282, the second special symbol display device 283, the second special symbol reserved number display device 284, the normal symbol display device 285, and the normal symbol reserved number display device 286, which are connected via the symbol display device relay terminal board 533.

[0061] (2-1-1: Schematic Configuration of MPU 600) Here, the MPU 600 (Micro Processing Unit) mounted on the main control device 40 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 6, the MPU 600 mainly comprises a CPU 610, a ROM 620, a RAM 630, a counter circuit 640, a timer circuit 650, and a random number circuit 660. The CPU 610, the ROM 620, the RAM 630, the counter circuit 640, the timer circuit 650, and the random number circuit 660 are each connected via an internal bus 601, and the internal bus 601 is communicatively connected to various switches and various devices provided in the pachinko machine 1 via an external bus interface 602 (see FIG. 5). In FIG. 6, reference numeral 611 denotes a general-purpose register of the CPU 610.

[0062] (2-1-2: ROM 620) The ROM 620 stores a win / lose determination table 621a for the first special symbol, a pattern selection table 622a for the first special symbol, a variable pattern selection table 623a for the first special symbol, a win / lose determination table 621b for the second special symbol, a pattern selection table 622b for the second special symbol, a variable pattern selection table 623b for the second special symbol, and a reach determination table 624.

[0063] The first special symbol win / loss judgment table 621a is used for winning / loss judgment of the first special symbol. The first special symbol win / loss judgment table 621a includes a plurality of win / loss judgment tables that are used according to the game state and a stage setting value (simply called a setting value) described later. The first special symbol pattern selection table 622a is used when determining the pattern to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 281 as a result of the win / loss judgment of the first special symbol. The first special symbol variation pattern selection table 623a is used when selecting a variation pattern to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 281. The first special symbol variation pattern selection table 623a includes a plurality of variation pattern selection tables that are used according to the result of the win / loss judgment of the first special symbol and the game state being executed.

[0064] The second special symbol win / loss judgment table 621b is used for winning / loss judgment of the second special symbol. The second special symbol win / loss judgment table 621b includes a plurality of win / loss judgment tables that are used according to the game state, the set stage value, etc. The second special symbol pattern selection table 622b is used when determining the pattern to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 283 as a result of the win / loss judgment of the second special symbol. The second special symbol variation pattern selection table 623b is used when selecting the variation pattern to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 283. The second special symbol variation pattern selection table 623b includes a plurality of variation pattern selection tables that are used according to the result of the win / loss judgment of the second special symbol, the game state being executed, etc.

[0065] The reach judgment table 624 is used for judging whether the first special chart and the second special chart are hit or not. The reach judgment table 624 is used for deciding whether or not to perform a reach miss performance in which the pseudo performance pattern 700 indicating a miss is displayed after the reach performance in the pseudo performance pattern 700 (see FIG. 39) displayed on the performance pattern display device 46 in conjunction with the variable display of the first special chart and the second special chart.

[0066] In addition, the ROM 620 further stores a normal pattern hit / miss judgment table 621c, a normal pattern selection table 622c, and a normal pattern variation pattern selection table 623c. The normal pattern hit / miss judgment table 621c is used to judge whether the normal pattern is hit or not. The normal pattern selection table 622c is used to determine the pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 285 as a result of the hit / miss judgment of the normal pattern. The normal pattern variation pattern selection table 623c is used to select the variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 285.

[0067] (2-1-3: RWM630) RWM630 has, as memory areas, a first special chart reserved memory area 631, a second special chart reserved memory area 632, a regular chart reserved memory area 633, an electric support counter 634, a stage setting value storage area 635, and a mode value storage area 636.

[0068] The first special chart reserved memory area 631 stores the number of reserved balls for the first special chart, and the second special chart reserved memory area 632 stores the number of reserved balls for the second special chart. The regular chart reserved memory area 633 stores the number of reserved balls for the regular chart. The upper limit of the number of reserved balls stored in the first special chart reserved memory area 631, the second special chart reserved memory area 632, and the regular chart reserved memory area 633 is four.

[0069] The electric support counter 634 includes the special symbol counting counter. As described above, when the pachinko machine 1 is in a normal game state (non-normal power support state) and a symbol jackpot is reached in the hit / miss judgment of the first or second special symbol, it transitions to a normal power accessory support state after the jackpot game ends. At this time, the electric support counter 634 is set with the first to third limit times, which are the end conditions. Then, 1 is added to the count value of the special symbol counting counter every time the hit / miss judgment of the first or second special symbol is made. Then, the count value of the special symbol counting counter is compared with the first to third limit times. If the comparison results match, the game state returns from the normal power support state to the normal game state due to the occurrence of a small hit thereafter. In addition, the RWM 630 is provided with an electric support flag indicating that the game state is in the normal power support state. This electric power support flag is set to "1" when the game state is a normal power support state, and is set to "0" when the game state is not a normal power support state.

[0070] (2-1-4: Stage setting value) The stage setting value storage area 635 stores a stage setting value that is a value related to the jackpot probability in the hit / miss judgment. As described above, the pachinko machine 1 is a gaming machine with a setting function. That is, the pachinko machine 1 can set, for example, stage setting values ​​1 to 6 divided into six stages according to the jackpot probability in the hit / miss judgment in the stage setting value storage area 635. Then, the main control device 40 determines a hit / miss judgment table to be used in the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the stage setting value stored in the stage setting value storage area 635.

[0071] In this embodiment, the main control device 40 is designed to set values ​​from "1 to 6" as stage set values ​​to be stored in the stage set value storage area 635, and when a value other than "1 to 6" is stored in the stage set value storage area 635, it is determined that some kind of fraudulent activity or an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 630. In this case, it is preferable for the main control device 40 to notify an employee of the gaming facility using the fraud notification lamp 410 or the like.

[0072] (2-1-5: Transition Mode) The mode value storage area 636 stores a "mode value" that indicates which of the four transition modes the pachinko machine 1 transitions to after power is turned on.

[0073] Specifically, when the power to the pachinko machine 1 is turned on and the specified preparation processing is completed, the pachinko machine 1 transitions to one of the transition modes: "game mode," "setting confirmation mode," "setting change mode," or "game stop mode."

[0074] The game mode is a transition mode that is set when the pachinko machine 1 is in a playable state. The game mode includes a "backup recovery mode" in which the game mode is transitioned to after restoring the backup data stored in the RWM 630 at the time of the previous power outage, and an "RWM clear mode" in which the game mode is transitioned to after erasing the backup data stored in the RWM 630 at the time of the previous power outage. When the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 636 is "0", the main control device 40 transitions to the game mode.

[0075] The setting confirmation mode is a transition mode that is set when an employee of the gaming facility or the like checks the stage setting value currently set in the pachinko machine 1. The setting change mode is a transition mode that is set when changing the stage setting value set in the pachinko machine 1. Note that the pachinko machine 1 is disabled for play when the setting confirmation mode or setting change mode is set as the transition mode.

[0076] Furthermore, when the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 636 is "1", the main control device 40 transitions to the setting check mode, and when the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 636 is "2", the main control device 40 transitions to the setting change mode. The setting check mode and the setting change mode are terminated when a prescribed operation is performed by an employee of the gaming facility or the like. After the setting check mode or the setting change mode is terminated, the main control device 40 transitions to the game mode and stores "0" in the mode value storage area 636.

[0077] The setting check mode, setting change mode, and game stop mode are transition modes that can be entered only when the power is turned on. In other words, after the pachinko machine 1 has entered either the setting check mode or the setting change mode after the power is turned on, it will not enter any transition mode other than the game mode. Furthermore, after the pachinko machine 1 has transitioned to the game mode, it will not transition to any of the setting check mode, the setting change mode, or the game stop mode.

[0078] The game stop mode is a transition mode that is set when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the RWM 630. When the game stop mode is set as the transition mode, the mode value storage area 636 stores "3" as the mode value.

[0079] (2-1-6: Counter circuit 640) As shown in Fig. 6, the counter circuit 640 performs timing processing of various counters provided in the pachinko machine 1, and the timer circuit 650 performs timing processing of various timers provided in the pachinko machine 1. For example, the timer circuit 650 includes a variable time timer 651 in which a variable time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is set according to a selected variable pattern. The main control device 40 performs a variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol until the variable time timer 651 reaches 0, and when the variable time timer 651 reaches 0, performs a final display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[0080] (2-1-7: Random number circuit 660) The random number circuit 660 generates hardware random numbers used in the processing performed by the main control device 40. Examples of random numbers generated by the random number circuit 660 include a random number for jackpot determination used to determine whether the first and second special symbols are hit or miss, and a random number for hit determination used to determine whether the normal symbol is hit or miss. Then, when the extracted random number for jackpot determination matches the random number value set in the hit / miss determination table 621a for the first special symbol or the hit / miss determination table 621b for the second special symbol, the main control device 40 determines that the hit / miss determination result is a jackpot.

[0081] When a game ball enters the first special symbol start hole 23, the main control device 40 stores the extracted random number for determining a jackpot in the first special symbol reserve memory area 631. Similarly, when a game ball enters the second special symbol start hole 24, the main control device 40 stores the extracted random number for determining a jackpot in the second special symbol reserve memory area 632. When a game ball enters the normal symbol operation hole 21, the main control device 40 stores the extracted random number for determining a jackpot in the normal symbol reserve memory area 633.

[0082] The random number circuit 660 generates a random number 1 for determining a jackpot symbol and a random number 2 for determining a jackpot symbol used to select a special symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 281 or the second special symbol display device 283. Then, the main control device 40 determines a special symbol to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 281 or the second special symbol display device 283 based on the extracted random number 1 for determining a jackpot symbol and the random number 2 for determining a jackpot symbol and the random number value set in the first special symbol symbol selection table 622a or the second special symbol symbol selection table 622b.

[0083] Similarly, the random number circuit 660 generates a random number for determining a winning symbol to be used for selecting a normal symbol to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 285. Then, the main control device 40 determines a normal symbol to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 285 based on the extracted random number for determining a winning symbol and the random number value set in the normal symbol selection table 622c.

[0084] Furthermore, the random number circuit 660 generates a reach determination random number used to determine whether or not to perform a reach-miss performance. Then, the main control device 40 determines whether or not to perform a reach-miss performance based on the extracted reach determination random number and the random number value set in the reach determination table 624.

[0085] In addition, the random number circuit 660 generates a special chart variation pattern determination random number 1 and a special chart variation pattern determination random number 2 used to select a variation pattern to be displayed on the first special chart display device 281 or the second special chart display device 283. Then, the main control device 40 determines a variation pattern to be displayed on the first special chart display device 281 or the second special chart display device 283 based on the extracted special chart variation pattern determination random number 1 and special chart variation pattern determination random number 2 and the random number value set in the first special chart variation pattern selection table 623a or the second special chart variation pattern selection table 623b.

[0086] Furthermore, the random number circuit 660 generates a random number for determining a normal pattern variation pattern used to select a variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 285. Then, the main control device 40 determines a variation pattern to be displayed on the normal pattern display device 285 based on the extracted random number 2 for determining a normal pattern variation pattern and the random number value set in the normal pattern variation pattern selection table 623c.

[0087] 7, the random number circuit 660 includes a random number generation circuit 661, three random number registers 662A to 662C, a random number capture register 663, and random number latch flag registers 664A to 664C. The random number generation circuit 661 starts up as soon as the MPU 600 is energized, and updates the random number value at a timing determined by appropriately dividing the system clock signal (SCLK) from the timer circuit 650 (see FIG. 6).

[0088] Each of the random number registers 662A-662C stores a random number value generated by the random number generation circuit 661. The random number value take-in register 663 is used to specify which of the random number registers 662A-662C stores a random number value. For example, when storing a random number value in the random number register 662A, the main control unit 40 sets the random number value take-in register 663 to "1." Similarly, when storing a random number value in the random number register 662B, the main control unit 40 sets the random number value take-in register 663 to "2," and when storing a random number value in the random number register 662C, the main control unit 40 sets the random number value take-in register 663 to "3."

[0089] The random number latch flag registers 664A-664C indicate whether or not a random number value has been loaded into each of the random number registers 662A-662C. Specifically, when a random number value is loaded into the random number registers 662A-662C, the main control unit 40 sets the corresponding random number latch flag registers 664A-664C to "1." Then, when the main control unit 40 references the random number value stored in each of the random number registers 662A-662C, it sets the referenced random number latch flag registers 664A-664C to "0." This allows the main control unit 40 to know whether or not a random number value has been stored in each of the random number registers 662A-662C.

[0090] (2-2: Payout control device 41) Returning to FIG. 5, the payout control device 41 will be described. The payout control device 41 is connected to the main control device 40 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The payout control device 41 is connected to the glass frame opening switch 501 and the inner frame opening switch 502 via the payout relay terminal board 534 and the back wiring relay terminal board 530. The payout control device 41 then transmits information about the winning balls, information about the open / closed state of the front frame 11 and the inner frame 30, and the like, to the hall computer 500 or the test shot test device (not shown) via the external connection terminal board 38. In addition, the payout control device 41 transmits a launch stop signal to the launch control device 44 to stop the launch of the game balls as necessary.

[0091] In addition, the dispensing control device 41 is connected to a bulb-out switch 520 that detects when the bulb tank 31 (see FIG. 4) is empty via the rear wiring relay terminal board 530. When the bulb-out switch 520 detects that the bulb tank 31 is empty, it outputs a detection signal to the dispensing control device 41.

[0092] Furthermore, the payout control device 41 is connected to a payout motor 521 that pays out game balls and a payout switch 522 that detects that game balls have been paid out via a payout relay terminal board 534. The payout control device 41 drives the payout motor 521 in response to a command sent from the main control device 40 to pay out game balls. When the payout switch 522 detects that game balls have been paid out, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 41. Furthermore, the payout control device 41 is connected to a full switch 523 that detects that the lower tray 13 is full. When the full switch 523 detects that the lower tray 13 is full, it outputs a detection signal to the payout control device 41.

[0093] The payout control device 41 stops the payout motor 521 when a detection signal is input from the out-of-ball switch 520 and when a detection signal is input from the full switch 523. This stops the payout operation of the payout unit 33. The out-of-ball switch 520 continues to output a detection signal until the out-of-ball state is resolved, and the full switch 523 continues to output a detection signal until the full state of the lower tray 13 is released. Then, when the input of the detection signals from the out-of-ball switch 520 and the full switch 523 stops, the payout control device 41 resumes driving the payout motor 521.

[0094] In addition, when the present invention is applied to an enclosed type gaming machine in which game balls enclosed in the machine are circulated to play, one-way communication may be used from the main control device 40 to the payout control device 41 (in the case of an enclosed type gaming machine, since game balls are not paid out, it is preferable to call it a frame control device). In this case, the gaming machine can be configured to be difficult to be fraudulently used.

[0095] Furthermore, the payout control device 41 is connected to the CR unit CR and the settlement display device 170 via the CR unit terminal board 535 so as to be capable of two-way communication. A ball lending switch 171 and a settlement switch 172 operated by a player are connected to the settlement display device 170. The ball lending switch 171 is a switch that is operated when a player requests the lending of game balls, and the settlement switch 172 is a switch that is operated when a player requests settlement.

[0096] When the ball lending switch 171 detects an operation by a player, it outputs an operation signal for a lending request. The lending request signal output by the ball lending switch 171 is input to the CR unit CR via the settlement display device 170, and a lending request signal is sent from the CR unit CR to the payout control device 41. Then, when the payout control device 41 receives the lending request signal from the CR unit CR, it drives the payout motor 521 to pay out game balls and controls the display of the balance of the prepaid card inserted in the CR unit CR.

[0097] When the settlement switch 172 detects an operation by a player, it outputs an operation signal requesting settlement. The settlement request signal output by the settlement switch 172 is input to the CR unit CR via the settlement display device 170, and the CR unit CR performs control related to balance management and balance display of the prepaid card inserted into the CR unit CR in response to the settlement request signal.

[0098] The payout control device 41 is also provided with a fraud notification lamp 410, which is an LED that lights up when it is determined that the frequency of balls entering the general winning port 27 is abnormal. When the payout control device 41 receives a fraud command from the main control device 40, it lights up the fraud notification lamp 410 to notify employees of the gaming facility that fraud may have occurred.

[0099] (2-3: Sub-integrated control device 42 and performance pattern control device 43) The sub-integrated control device 42 is connected to the main control device 40 via the performance relay terminal board 532, and enables communication from the main control device 40 to the sub-integrated control device 42. The sub-integrated control device 42 controls performance based on commands received from the main control device 40. The sub integrated control device is connected to the performance button 15 and the jog dial 16. The performance button 15 and the jog dial 16 input their respective detection signals to the sub integrated control device when they are operated.

[0100] The sub-integrated control device 42 controls the output of sound by driving the speaker 112, and also controls the turning on and off of various LEDs and lamps including the frame side decorative lamp 113. Furthermore, the sub integrated control device 42 is provided with a volume adjustment switch that adjusts the volume of the sound output from the speaker 112. The sub integrated control device 42 controls the volume of the sound output from the speaker 112 based on an operation signal input from the volume adjustment switch.

[0101] The effect symbol control device 43 is connected to the sub-integrated control device 42 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The sub-integrated control device 42 transmits commands to the effect symbol control device 43 regarding the display mode of the pseudo effect that displays characters and the pseudo pattern of the special chart. On the other hand, the effect symbol control device 43 displays the pseudo effect symbol 700 corresponding to the command sent from the sub-integrated control device 42 on the LCD panel of the effect symbol display device 46.

[0102] In addition, if the sub-integrated control device 42 determines that the frequency of balls entering the general winning port 27 is abnormal, it will issue an error alert via the speaker 112, the frame side decorative lamp 113 and the performance pattern display device 46.

[0103] (2-4: Firing control device 44) The firing control device 44 is connected to the payout control device 41 and enables communication from the payout control device 41 to the firing control device 44. The firing control device 44 controls the firing motor 526 based on commands sent from the main control device 40 via the payout control device 41 and rotation signals of the firing handle 14, and performs firing and stopping of the game balls.

[0104] In addition, a launch stop switch 524 provided on the launch handle 14 and a touch switch 525 that detects the player's contact with the launch handle 14 are connected to the launch control device 44. When the touch switch 525 detects the player's contact with the launch handle 14, it inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 44. When the detection signal is input from the touch switch 525, the launch control device 44 launches the game ball. On the other hand, when the player operates the launch stop switch 524, the launch control device 44 inputs a detection signal to the launch control device 44. When the detection signal is input from the launch stop switch 524, the launch control device 44 stops the launch of the game ball even when a detection signal is input from the touch switch 525.

[0105] (2-5: Power supply board 45) As shown in FIG. 8, the power supply board 45 includes a power supply circuit 671, a power receiving circuit 672, a power failure detection circuit 673, and a backup power supply circuit 674. The power supply circuit 671 converts an AC voltage supplied from an external AC power supply (main power supply AC 24V) to generate a DC voltage. The power receiving circuit 672 is provided with a power switch 450, and the power supply circuit 671 is connected to the AC power supply via the power receiving circuit 672. When the power switch 450 is turned ON, the power supply circuit 671 is connected to the AC power supply, and the main power supply AC 24V is supplied to the power supply circuit 671. The power supply circuit 671 then supplies the necessary DC voltage to various control devices, actuators, and the like.

[0106] The power failure detection circuit 673 monitors the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 671. When the supplied voltage falls below a predetermined voltage, the power failure detection circuit 673 determines that the power switch 450 has been switched to OFF or that a power interruption has occurred due to a power failure, and sets the power failure detection signal output to the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41 to a high level (ON). On the other hand, when the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 671 rises above a predetermined voltage, the power failure detection circuit 673 sets the power failure detection signal to a low level (OFF).

[0107] In this embodiment, the power failure detection circuit 673 has been described as transmitting a power failure detection signal to the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41, but this is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the power failure detection circuit 673 may be configured to transmit a power failure detection signal to only one of the main control device 40 and the dispensing control device 41, and transmit a power failure command from the main control device 40 to the dispensing control device 41, or from the dispensing control device 41 to the main control device 40.

[0108] The backup power supply circuit 674 is composed of a capacitor, etc. The backup power supply circuit 674 charges the DC 5V power generated by the power supply circuit 671 while supplying power from the AC power supply, and in the event of a power outage, supplies the backup power (DC 5V) to the RWM 630 of the main control device 40 and the RWM of the dispensing control device 41, etc.

[0109] In this embodiment, the backup power supply is supplied to the RWM 630 of the main control device 40 and the RWM of the payout control device 41. Therefore, even after the power supply is cut off, the pachinko machine 1 can hold the contents stored in the main control device 40 and the payout control device 41 at the time of the power outage, for a certain period of time, such as the game status of the pachinko machine 1 and the number of game balls to be paid out as prize balls.

[0110] On the other hand, the backup power supply is not supplied to the RWM of the sub-integrated control device 42. Therefore, when the power supply to the pachinko machine 1 is stopped, the contents stored in the RWM of the sub-integrated control device 42 are erased.

[0111] (3. Specifications of the Pachinko Machine 1) Next, the basic specifications of the Pachinko machine 1 will be explained. As shown in Fig. 9, the Pachinko machine 1 is configured to be able to change the probability of winning the jackpot for the first special chart and the second special chart according to the setting value. For example, the jackpot probability for both the first special chart and the second special chart at setting value 1 is set to 1 in 209, at setting value 2 it is set to 1 in 204, at setting value 3 it is set to 1 in 199, at setting value 4 it is set to 1 in 194, at setting value 5 it is set to 1 in 189, and at setting value 6 it is set to 1 in 184.

[0112] The pachinko machine 1 is configured so that a small win is not determined when determining whether the first special chart is a win or not. The probability of winning a small jackpot on the second special chart is constant regardless of the setting value, and is set at 1 in 7.4.

[0113] In the pachinko machine 1, the second large prize opening 26 is opened in a small prize game. The opening time and the number of openings of the second large prize opening 26 in a small prize game are set to 1.8 seconds x 1 time in either the normal game state or the normal power support state. In addition, in a small win game, the probability of making the game ball enter the specific area 262 (V winning rate) is set to about 1 in 1.

[0114] Next, the types of jackpot games of the pachinko machine 1 will be explained. In the jackpot game of the first special pattern based on the hit / miss judgment, for example, one of two types of jackpot games, "4R bonus" and "15R bonus 1", is selected. The jackpot game of the first special pattern is determined according to the jackpot pattern set at the time of hit / miss judgment.

[0115] "4R with bonus" means that four rounds of play are played, and the normal power support state is set after the big win game ends. "15R with bonus 1" means that 15 rounds of play are played, and the normal power support state is set after the big win game ends. "4R with bonus" has a 99% probability of occurring with a big win pattern, and "15R with bonus 1" has a 1% probability of occurring.

[0116] In the illustrated example, in the case of the symbol jackpot determined by the hit / miss judgment of the first special symbol, both "4R bonus available" and "15R bonus available 1" are configured to transition to the normal power support state after the jackpot game ends, but this is not limited to this. For example, in addition to the symbol jackpots of "4R bonus available" and "15R bonus available 1", symbol jackpots of "4R no bonus" and "15R no bonus" may be set to the normal game state after the jackpot game ends.

[0117] In the case of a symbol jackpot determined by the hit / miss judgment of the second special chart, for example, only the jackpot game of "15R bonus 2" is implemented. Of course, "15R bonus 2" is a round game in which 15 rounds are played, and the normal power support state is set after the jackpot game ends. The occurrence rate is 100%.

[0118] In the case of a special jackpot from a small jackpot game of the second special chart, one of seven types of jackpot games, for example, "3R bonus available", "5R bonus available", "7R bonus available", "9R bonus available", "11R bonus available", "13R bonus available", and "15R bonus available 3", is selected. The jackpot game transitioned from the small jackpot game of the second special chart is determined according to the small jackpot pattern set at the time of hit / miss judgment.

[0119] "3R with bonus" means that 3 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play, with the occurrence rate being 20%. "5R with bonus" means that 5 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play, with the occurrence rate being 30%. "7R with bonus" means that 7 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play. "9R with bonus" means that 9 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play. "11R with bonus" means that 11 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play. "13R with bonus" means that 13 rounds of round play are performed, and the normal power support state is set after the end of the jackpot play. "15R Bonus 3" is a mode in which 15 rounds of play are played, and the normal power support state is set after the jackpot play ends. "7R Bonus", "9R Bonus", "11R Bonus", "13R Bonus" and "15R Bonus 3" all have a 10% probability of occurring when the jackpot is hit.

[0120] In the illustrated example, in the case of the special jackpot determined by the hit / miss judgment of the second special chart, all of the following are configured to transition to the normal power support state after the jackpot game ends: "3R bonus available", "5R bonus available", "7R bonus available", "9R bonus available", "11R bonus available", "13R bonus available", and "15R bonus available 3". However, this is not limited to this. For example, in addition to the special jackpots of "3R bonus available", "5R bonus available", "7R bonus available", "9R bonus available", "11R bonus available", "13R bonus available", and "15R bonus available 3", special jackpots of "3R no bonus" and "5R no bonus" may be provided.

[0121] Next, the game specifications related to the judgment of whether the normal figure is a winning number or not and the operation of the normal power accessory will be explained. In the normal game mode of the pachinko machine 1, the normal figure fluctuation time is set to 6.2 seconds. The probability of winning the normal figure is also set to 1 in 100. The opening time and number of openings of the normal power accessory 22, which is activated by the winning of the normal figure, are set to 0.2 seconds x 1 time.

[0122] In the normal power support state, the normal power map fluctuation time is set to 0.7 seconds. The probability of winning the normal power map is set to about 1 in 1. The opening time and number of openings of the normal power role 22 that is activated by the winning of the normal power map are set to 0.6 seconds x 1 time.

[0123] The pachinko machine 1 has two types of normal power support states with different termination conditions. Details of the termination conditions of the normal power support states will be described later, but in one normal power support state, the limit number of times of the second special chart (second limit number) which is the termination condition is set to a number less than the specified number of reserved memories (for example, 1 time). In the other, the limit number of times of the second special chart which is the termination condition is set to a number greater than the specified number of reserved memories (for example, 7 times). In the former normal power support state with the limit number of times "1 time", the pachinko machine 1 has a Tatsukichi chance entry rate, which is the probability that a special jackpot occurs from a small jackpot, of about 52%. In this case, the Tatsukichi chance entry rate is the probability that a special jackpot occurs in five fluctuations, which is the sum of one fluctuation of the second special chart in the normal power support state and four fluctuations of the reserved memories of the second special chart stored from the jackpot game to the end of the normal power support.

[0124] On the other hand, in the latter normal power support state where the limit is "7 times", the Tatsukichi Chance continuation rate, which is the probability that a special jackpot will occur from a small jackpot, is about 80%. In this case, the Tatsukichi Chance continuation rate is the probability that a special jackpot will occur in 11 fluctuations, which is the sum of the 7 fluctuations of the second special chart in the normal power support state and the 4 fluctuations of the reserved memory of the second special chart stored from the jackpot game until the end of the normal power support. In addition, with the 7 fluctuations of the second special chart in the normal power support state, the special jackpot will occur with a 64% probability. Also, with the 4 fluctuations of the second special chart due to the reserved memory, the special jackpot will occur with a 44% probability.

[0125] (4. Conditions for Ending the Normal Power Support State) Next, the conditions for ending the normal power support state will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12. The pachinko machine 1 has three conditions for ending the normal power support state: the maximum number of times the first special symbol changes (first limit number), the maximum number of times the second special symbol changes (second limit number), and the total number of times the first special symbol and the second special symbol change (third limit number).

[0126] As shown in Figure 10, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state can be triggered by a jackpot of the pattern "4R bonus available" in a non-normal power support state in which the normal power support function is not granted, among the normal power support states caused by a jackpot of the pattern on the first special chart, is set under the conditions that the first limit on the number of times the first special chart changes has reached "99 times", the second limit on the number of times the second special chart changes has reached "1 time", and the third limit on the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed has reached "99 times".

[0127] In addition, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state is triggered by the pattern jackpot "15R with bonus 1" in the non-normal power support state where the normal power support function is not granted among the normal power support states due to the pattern jackpot of the first special chart is conditioned on the first limit number of times that the first special chart changes reaching "99 times", the second limit number of times that the second special chart changes reaching "7 times", and the third limit number of times that the total number of times that the first special chart and the second special chart change reaching "99 times". Note that a configuration without the first limit number that counts only the number of times that the first special chart changes is also conceivable.

[0128] Furthermore, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state can be triggered by a jackpot pattern "4R bonus available" in the normal power support state due to a jackpot pattern on the first special chart is set under the conditions that the first limit number of times the first special chart changes has reached "99 times", the second limit number of times the second special chart changes has reached "1 time", and the third limit number of times the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed has reached "99 times". However, the limit number of times of the normal power support state caused by the pattern jackpot "4R bonus available" in the normal power support state due to the pattern jackpot of the first special chart is the second limit number of times that the second special chart changes, which is the second limit number of times, has reached "1 time", but it may be "7 times" like "15R bonus available 1". This is because if it becomes "4R bonus available" after "15R bonus available 1", the second limit number of times that the second special chart changes, which is the second limit number of times, will become "1 time".

[0129] Furthermore, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state can be triggered by a jackpot pattern "15R bonus available" in the normal power support state due to a jackpot pattern on the first special chart is set under the conditions that the first limit number of times the first special chart changes has reached "99 times", the second limit number of times the second special chart changes has reached "7 times", and the third limit number of times the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart changes has reached "99 times".

[0130] As shown in Figure 11, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state can be triggered by a pattern jackpot "15R bonus included" in a non-normal power support state where the normal power support function is not granted, among the normal power support states caused by a pattern jackpot on the second special chart, is set under the conditions that the first limit, which is the number of times the first special chart has changed, has reached "99 times," the second limit, which is the number of times the second special chart has changed, has reached "7 times," and the third limit, which is the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed, has reached "99 times."

[0131] In addition, the limit on the number of times the normal power support state can be triggered by a jackpot pattern "15R bonus available" in the normal power support state due to a jackpot pattern on the second special chart is set under the following conditions: the first limit number of times the first special chart has changed has reached "99 times", the second limit number of times the second special chart has changed has reached "7 times", and the third limit number of times the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart have changed has reached "99 times".

[0132] As shown in FIG. 12, the limit number of times of the special jackpot from the small win in the non-normal power support state where the normal power support function is not given among the normal power support states by the special jackpot of the second special chart is set to the same number for all of "3R special benefit available", "5R special benefit available", "7R special benefit available", "9R special benefit available", "11R special benefit available", "13R special benefit available" and "15R special benefit available 3". These limit numbers are set under the conditions that the first limit number of times the first special chart changes has reached "99 times", the second limit number of times the second special chart changes has reached "7 times", and the third limit number of times the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart changes has reached "99 times".

[0133] In addition, the limit number of times of special jackpots from small wins in the normal power support state of the special jackpot of the second special chart is set to the same number for all of "3R special offer", "5R special offer", "7R special offer", "9R special offer", "11R special offer", "13R special offer", and "15R special offer 3". These limit numbers are set on the condition that the first limit number of times the first special chart changes reach "99 times", the second limit number of times the second special chart changes reach "7 times", and the third limit number of times the total number of times the first special chart and the second special chart change reach "99 times".

[0134] In addition, since the pachinko machine 1 is a right-hand play in the normal power support state, the normal power support state ends mainly when the second limited number of times of the second special pattern is reached. Therefore, it is not necessary to set a condition for ending the normal power support state by the reaching of the limited number of times of the first special pattern.

[0135] (5. Start-up Processing) Next, the start-up processing executed by the main control device 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 13. The start-up processing is processing that is executed when the power of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on.

[0136] 13, the main control unit 40 sets a stack pointer to a stack address as the first process of the startup process (process S1). Next, the main control unit 40 sets an interrupt vector address of the interrupt vector table to a corresponding register (process S2) and sets a built-in register (process S3). Note that the interrupt vector address is used to specify a start address in the address space (memory space) related to a program for interrupt processing, which will be described later.

[0137] Next, the main control device 40 reads the register of the input port (process S4) and judges whether the power failure stop signal is OFF or not (process S5). If the power failure detection signal remains ON and the judgment is negative (process S5: No), the main control device 40 judges that the voltage supplied from the power supply board 45 has not reached the predetermined voltage. In this case, the main control device 40 returns to process S4 and repeatedly executes processes S4 and S5 until the power failure stop signal is turned OFF.

[0138] On the other hand, if the power outage detection signal switches to OFF and the judgment is positive (process S5: Yes), the main control unit 40 determines that the voltage supplied from the power supply board 45 has reached a predetermined voltage or higher and a stable voltage supply has been achieved, and allows writing to the RWM 630 (process S6).

[0139] After process S6, the main control device 40 executes an initial setting process (process S7). This initial setting process (process S7) mainly sets the transition mode. After that, the main control device 40 prohibits interrupts (process S8) and executes register save (process S9). Furthermore, the main control device 40 executes a gaming performance calculation process (process S10) that calculates gaming performance such as a base value. In other words, the main control device 40 performs calculations related to gaming performance outside the area of ​​the RWM 630.

[0140] After process S10, the main control device 40 executes register restoration (process S11) and also permits interrupts (process S12), and returns to process S8. Thus, the main control device 40 repeatedly executes processes S8 to S12 in the startup process. Meanwhile, the main control device 40 periodically (e.g., at 4 ms intervals) executes an interrupt process (see FIG. 14), which will be described later, between the time when process S12 is executed and the time when process S8 is executed again.

[0141] (6. Interrupt Processing) Next, the interrupt processing executed by the main control device 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 14. As shown in Fig. 14, the main control device 40 sets a timer and a watchdog timer as the first process executed in the interrupt processing (process S21). In process S21, the main control device 40 sets various timers provided in the main control device 40, and clears and restarts the watchdog timer.

[0142] After process S21, the main control device 40 judges whether the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 636 is "3" or not (process S22). As a result, if the mode value is "3" (process S22: Yes), the pachinko machine 1 can judge that the game stop mode is set as the transition mode. In other words, the pachinko machine 1 can be judged to be in a state in which it is not possible to start a game and is waiting for the power switch 450 to be switched to OFF. Therefore, in this case, the main control device 40 performs interrupt permission (process S36) and returns to the start-up process (see FIG. 13).

[0143] On the other hand, if the mode value stored in the mode value storage area 636 is not "3" (Process S22: No), the main control device 40 executes a timer update process for updating various timers provided in the main control device 40 (Process S23). Next, the main control device 40 executes an input determination process (Process S24) which is a process related to the entry of game balls into various starting holes and various winning holes. Details of the input determination process (Process S24) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16. After Process S24, the main control device 40 executes a win / lose determination process (Process S25) which is a process related to win / lose determination and jackpot play. Details of the win / lose determination process (Process S25) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 19.

[0144] After the process S25, the main control device 40 executes a game state setting process (process S26) in which, when the game state has changed, a signal to that effect is sent to the hall computer 500. In the process S26, the main control device 40 sends a signal to the hall computer 500 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the big win game (special game) or winning game (regular game) has ended in the hit / miss determination process (process S25) described above. In addition, when the pachinko machine 1 is connected to a test firing test device (not shown), the main control device 40 sends a test signal indicating that the game state has changed to the test firing test device (not shown) in the process S26.

[0145] After process S26, the main control device 40 performs an error monitoring process (process S27) for monitoring whether an error has occurred. Examples of errors that the main control device 40 monitors for in the error monitoring process (process S27) include an open error indicating that the front frame 11 or the inner frame 30 is open, a radio wave error indicating that an abnormal radio wave has been detected by a radio wave sensor (not shown), and a vibration error indicating that an abnormal vibration has been detected by a vibration sensor (not shown).

[0146] After the process S27, the main control device 40 executes a prize ball command transmission process (process S28) for transmitting a prize ball command to the payout control device 41. Then, the payout control device 41 executes the payout of the prize balls set for each of the various starting holes or various winning holes into which the balls entered, based on the received prize ball command.

[0147] After process S28, the main control device 40 executes a performance data output process (process S29) in which image data, audio data, etc. corresponding to the game content are created during execution, and output to the sub-integrated control device 42. Furthermore, when the main control device 40 detects the occurrence of an error in the error monitoring process (process S27) described above, it appropriately notifies the error by displaying an error on the performance symbol display device 46, lighting or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 113, outputting audio from the speaker 112, etc., according to the content of the detected error.

[0148] After the process S29, the main control device 40 executes an external output process (process S30) to the hall computer 500 via the external connection terminal board 38. In the process S30, the main control device 40 transmits data related to the first large winning opening solenoid 511, the second large winning opening solenoid 512, and the normal power accessory solenoid 513 to the hall computer 500 based on the processing contents of the hit / miss determination process (process S25) described above. Also, in the process S30, the main control device 40 transmits a security signal to the hall computer 500 when it detects an error in the error monitoring process (process S27) described above. Note that, if a test firing device is connected to the pachinko machine 1, the main control device 40 transmits data related to the first large winning opening solenoid 511, the second large winning opening solenoid 512, and the normal power accessory solenoid 513 and a security signal to the test firing device in the process S30.

[0149] After process S30, the main control unit 40 performs register save (process S31) and executes performance display data creation process (process S32) as shown in Fig. 15. In process S32, the main control unit 40 creates data for displaying on the performance display device 403 the calculation results of the performance display calculation process (process S10) executed outside the area of ​​the RWM 630 during the startup process (see Fig. 13) and the test results of the test firing test. After process S31, the main control unit 40 executes register restore (process S33).

[0150] After process S33, the main control device 40 executes a segment data creation process (process S34). In process S34, the main control device 40 creates segment data for controlling the light emission of each common (8-bit display area related to an LED segment) of various LEDs provided on the performance display device 403 in preparation for displaying the data created in process S31 on the performance display device 403.

[0151] After process S34, the main control device 40 displays game performance and test firing data on the performance display device 403 as a display process (process S35) for various display devices. In process S35, the main control device 40 also performs variable display and final display of various symbols on the first special symbol display device 281, the second special symbol display device 283, and the normal symbol display device 285 according to the game status being played. After process S35, the main control device 40 permits an interrupt (process S36) and returns to the start-up process (see FIG. 13).

[0152] The main control device 40 executes the performance display calculation process (process S10) in the startup process (FIG. 13), while performing the process related to displaying the calculation results of the performance display calculation process (process S10) in the interrupt process. In this regard, the main control device 40 performs the performance display calculation process (process S10), which involves a large amount of processing, in the startup process, thereby preventing interrupt prohibition (process S8, see FIG. 13) from being executed before the performance display calculation process (process S10) is completed. Meanwhile, the main control device 40 can improve the efficiency of display control by executing the display process for the performance display device 403 at the same timing as the display process for the first special chart display device 281, etc.

[0153] (7. Input Determination Process) Next, the input determination process (process S24) executed in the interrupt process (see FIG. 14) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 16, the main control device 40 executes the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) as the first process of the input determination process (process S24). The special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) is a process executed when a game ball enters the first special ball start hole 23 or the second special ball start hole 24. The details of the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 17.

[0154] After the process S101, the main control device 40 executes a normal ball entry confirmation process (process S102). The normal ball entry confirmation process (process S102) is a process executed when a game ball enters the normal ball operation port 21. Details of the normal ball entry confirmation process (process S102) will be described later with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0155] After process S102, the main control device 40 executes a winning number count process (process S103). The winning number count process (process S103) is a process executed when a gaming ball enters the first large prize opening 25, the second large prize opening 26, or the general prize opening 27. Specifically, in process S103, the main control device 40 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 25, the second large prize opening 26, or the general prize opening 27 when the first count switch 506, the second count switch 507, or the general prize opening switch 509 detects a gaming ball.

[0156] After process S103, the main control device 40 executes a process for counting the number of outs (process S104). The process for counting the number of outs (process S104) is a process for tallying up the number of outs to be used in calculating game performance. Specifically, in process S104, when the first special symbol start port switch 503, the second special symbol start port switch 504, the normal symbol activation switch 505, the first count switch 506, the second count switch 507, the general winning port switch 509, and the out port switch 510 detect a game ball, the main control device 40 adds 1 to the value of a counter that counts the number of outs.

[0157] After process S104, the main control device 40 judges whether the frequency of balls entering the general winning opening 27 is abnormal (process S105). Specifically, in process S105, the main control device 40 judges that cheating has occurred if the number of game balls entering the general winning opening 27 within a predetermined time (e.g., 60 seconds) exceeds a specified number (e.g., 10 balls). As a result, if the ball entry frequency is normal and the judgment is negative (process S105: No), the main control device 40 ends this process as it is and returns to the interrupt process (see FIG. 14).

[0158] On the other hand, if the ball entry frequency is abnormal and the judgment is positive (Process S105: Yes), the main control unit 40 sends a fraud notification command to the payout control unit 41 and the sub integrated control unit 42 (Process S106), and terminates this process. In Process S106, the payout control unit 41, which has received the fraud notification command from the main control unit 40, turns on the fraud notification lamp 410 (see FIG. 4) provided on the payout control unit 41.

[0159] Furthermore, the sub-integrated control device 42, which has received a fraud notification command from the main control device 40, issues an error notification by turning on or blinking the frame side decorative lamp 113, outputting a voice from the speaker 112, etc. Furthermore, the performance pattern control device 43, which has received a fraud notification command from the sub-integrated control device 42, displays a warning that fraud has occurred on the performance pattern display device 46. The error notification by voice output from the speaker 112 ends 30 seconds after the error notification starts, and the warning display on the performance pattern display device 46 and the error notification by the frame side decorative lamp 113 end 5 minutes after the error notification starts.

[0160] (7-1: Special ball entry confirmation process) Next, referring to the flowchart shown in Fig. 17, the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) executed in the input judgment process (process S24, see Fig. 16) will be described. The special ball entry confirmation process (process S101) extracts and reserves multiple types of first special ball random numbers according to the entry into the first special ball start hole 23, and extracts and reserves multiple types of second special ball random numbers according to the entry into the second special ball start hole 24. Then, it is a process of transmitting various commands resulting from the entry into the first special ball start hole 23 and the second special ball start hole 24 to the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0161] As shown in Fig. 17, the "special drawing entry confirmation process" first determines in process S110 whether or not the first special drawing start port switch 503 detects an entry into the first special drawing start port 23. If the determination is negative (process S110: No), the process proceeds to process S115. If the result is positive (processing S110: Yes), in processing S111, it is determined whether the number of reserved memories of the first special symbol stored in the reserved memory area 631 for the first special symbol is full (whether the upper limit number has been reached). If the result is positive (processing S111: Yes), the process proceeds to processing S115.

[0162] If the result of the process S111 is negative (process S111: No), the random numbers for determining the jackpot of the first special symbol, the random numbers for determining the jackpot pattern, the random numbers for reaching the target, the random numbers for determining the variation pattern, etc. are extracted in process S112. The various extracted random numbers are stored in a temporary storage area of ​​the reserved storage area 631 for the first special symbol. Furthermore, the various random numbers stored in the temporary storage area are stored in the main storage area of ​​the reserved storage area 631 for the first special symbol as reserved storage for the first special symbol. Even if the reserved storage number of the first special symbol is "0", the various random numbers such as the win / lose random number extracted when the game ball enters the first special symbol starting hole 23 are stored in the same manner as when there is a storage number less than the maximum value.

[0163] Next, the first special symbol pre-reading judgment process of process S113 is executed. In this pre-reading judgment process, before the judgment of whether or not it will be a jackpot, the random number for determining the jackpot and the random number for determining the jackpot pattern stored in the temporary storage area of ​​the reserved storage area 631 for the first special symbol are confirmed to be specific numerical values. For example, as the specific numerical value, whether or not it is a numerical value determined to be a jackpot, a numerical value determined to be a super reach or a reach, and further, in the case of a jackpot, whether or not it is a jackpot with a normal power support function, etc. are confirmed. In this process, a pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment of the first special symbol is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42. After that, in process S114, the reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number is incremented, and a reserved number instruction command indicating the value of the reserved memory counter of the first special symbol that has been incremented is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0164] It is preferable that the read-ahead command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 when there is a possibility of a jackpot, a reach, or the like. Of course, it may be configured to send a read-ahead command to the sub-integrated control device 42 every time, regardless of the judgment content. In response to the read-ahead command, the sub-integrated control device 42 performs a read-ahead performance on the reserved memory patterns of the performance pattern display device 46, suggesting that there is a possibility of a jackpot or a reach.

[0165] In the next process S115, the second special pattern start port switch 504 determines whether or not a ball has entered the second special pattern start port 24. If the determination is negative (process S115: No), the process returns to the input determination process (see FIG. 16) and ends this process. If the determination is affirmative (process S115: Yes), in process S116, it is determined whether the number of reserved memories of the second special symbols stored in the reserved memory area 632 for the second special symbols is full (whether the upper limit number has been reached). If the determination is affirmative (process S116: Yes), the process returns.

[0166] If the result of the process S116 is negative (process S116: No), the random numbers for determining the big win of the second special chart, the random numbers for determining the big win pattern, the random numbers for determining the small win pattern, the random numbers for reaching the limit, the random numbers for determining the variation pattern, etc. are extracted in process S117. The various extracted random numbers are stored in a temporary storage area of ​​the reserved storage area 632 for the second special chart. Furthermore, the various random numbers stored in the temporary storage area are stored in the main storage area of ​​the reserved storage area 632 for the second special chart as reserved storage for the second special chart. Furthermore, the random numbers stored in the predetermined storage area are stored as reserved storage. Note that even if the reserved storage number of the second special chart is "0", various random numbers such as the win / lose random numbers extracted when the game ball enters the second special chart start hole 24 are stored in the same manner as when there is a storage number less than the maximum value.

[0167] Next, in process S118, a pre-reading judgment process for the second special chart is executed. In this pre-reading judgment process, before the judgment of whether or not it will be a jackpot is made, it is confirmed whether the random numbers for determining a jackpot and the random numbers for determining a jackpot pattern stored in the temporary memory area of ​​the reserved memory area 632 for the second special chart are specific numerical values. For example, as the specific numerical values, it is confirmed whether or not it is a numerical value determined to be a jackpot, a numerical value determined to be a super reach or a reach, and further, in the case of a jackpot, whether or not it is a jackpot to which normal power support is given. In this process, a pre-reading command indicating the judgment result of the pre-reading judgment of the second special chart is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42. After that, in process S119, a reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number is incremented, and a reserved number instruction command indicating the value of the reserved memory counter of the second special chart that has been incremented is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0168] It is preferable that the read-ahead command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 when there is a possibility of a jackpot, a reach, or the like. Of course, it may be configured to send a read-ahead command to the sub-integrated control device 42 every time, regardless of the judgment content. In response to the read-ahead command, the sub-integrated control device 42 performs a read-ahead performance on the reserved memory patterns of the performance pattern display device 46, suggesting that there is a possibility of a jackpot or a reach.

[0169] In the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101), if the number of reserved memories is not full, the extracted random number is stored in a pre-set temporary storage area, and then the random number stored in the temporary storage area is stored in the subject reserved storage area. Not limited to this, if the number of reserved memories is not full, the extracted random number may be stored in the temporary storage area and the subject reserved storage area, respectively. Furthermore, when a random number is extracted due to a ball entering the first special ball start hole 23 or the second special ball start hole 24, the extracted random number is stored in the temporary storage area. Then, it is confirmed whether the number of reserved memories is full, and if it is not full, the random number stored in the temporary storage area may be stored in the subject reserved storage area. In this case, if the number of reserved memories is full, the random number stored in the temporary storage area is erased.

[0170] In addition, in the special ball entry confirmation process (process S101), the look-ahead judgment process looks ahead and judges the random numbers stored in the temporary memory area, but it is not limited to this, and it is also possible to look ahead and judge the random numbers stored in the subject's reserved memory area.

[0171] (7-2: Regular ball entry confirmation process) Next, the regular ball entry confirmation process (process S102) executed in the input judgment process (process S24, see FIG. 16) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 18. The regular ball entry confirmation process (process S102) extracts and reserves random numbers related to multiple regular balls in response to a ball entering the regular ball operation port 21. Then, various commands resulting from the ball entering the regular ball operation port 21 are sent to the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0172] As shown in Fig. 18, the "normal ball entry confirmation process" first determines in process S121 whether or not the normal symbol operation switch 505 has detected a ball entering the normal symbol operation port 21. If the determination is negative (process S121: No), the process returns to the input determination process (see Fig. 13) and ends this process.

[0173] If the determination is affirmative in step S121 (step S121: Yes), the process determines whether the number of reserved memories of ordinary maps stored in the reserved memory area 633 for ordinary maps is full (whether the upper limit number has been reached) in step S122. If the determination is affirmative (step S122: Yes), the process returns.

[0174] If the result of process S122 is negative (process S122: No), in process S123, a random number for determining whether a regular figure is a winning symbol, a random number for determining a winning symbol, a random number for determining a variation pattern, etc. are extracted. Then, the various extracted random numbers are stored in the regular figure reserve memory area 633 as reserved memory for regular figures. Even if the reserved memory number for regular figures is "0", the various random numbers extracted when a game ball enters the regular figure operation port 21 are stored in the same way as when there is a memory number less than the maximum value. After that, in process S124, the reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number for regular figures is incremented, and a reserved number instruction command indicating the value of the incremented reserved memory counter for regular figures is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0175] (8. Win / lose determination process) Next, the win / lose determination process (process S25) executed in the interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 19. As shown in Fig. 19, the main control device 40 executes a regular win / lose determination process (process S200), which is a process related to the win / lose determination of the regular game and the winning game (regular game), as the first process executed in the win / lose determination process (process S25). Details of the regular win / lose determination process (process S200) will be described later with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figs. 20 to 24.

[0176] Next, the main control device 40 executes a special pattern win / loss determination process (process S300) which is a process related to the first special pattern or the second special pattern win / loss determination and the big win game (special game). Details of the special pattern win / loss determination process (process S300) will be described later with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figs. 25 to 35.

[0177] (8-1: Regular drawing correctness determination process) Next, with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 20 to 24, we will explain the "regular drawing correctness determination process" (process S200) executed in the correctness determination process (process S25, see Figure 19).

[0178] As shown in Fig. 20, the main control device 40 judges whether the normal power device 22 that operates during a winning game (normal game) is in operation (process S201) as the first process executed in the normal game win / loss judgment process (process S200). In process S201, if the normal power device 22 is in operation and the judgment is positive (process S201: Yes), the main control device 40 judges that a winning game is in operation and proceeds to the normal game process (process S250).

[0179] On the other hand, if the normal power device 22 is not operating and the result is a negative judgment (process S201: No), the main control device 40 judges whether or not the normal pattern is being displayed in a variable manner on the normal pattern display device 285 (process S202). As a result, if the normal pattern is being displayed in a variable manner and the result is a positive judgment (process S202: Yes), the main control device 40 judges whether or not the variable time of the normal pattern being displayed in a variable manner has elapsed (process S203).

[0180] If the time for the normal map being displayed to change has elapsed and the judgment is positive (Process S203: Yes), the main control device 40 stops the change of the normal map, executes a confirmation display process to display the confirmation (Process S204), and proceeds to the normal map game process (Process S250). On the other hand, if the time for the normal map being displayed to change has not elapsed and the judgment is negative (Process S203: No), the main control device 40 skips Process S204 and proceeds to the normal map game process (Process S250).

[0181] In process S202, if the normal map is not being displayed in a changing state and the judgment is negative (process S202: No), the main control device 40 determines whether the normal map is being displayed in a fixed state on the normal pattern display device 285 (process S205).

[0182] Then, if the confirmed display of the normal map is in progress and the judgment is positive (processing S205: Yes), the main control unit 40 judges whether or not the confirmed display time of the normal map has elapsed (processing S206). As a result, if the confirmed display time has not elapsed and the judgment is negative (processing S206: No), the main control unit 40 proceeds to normal map game processing (processing S250). On the other hand, if the confirmed display time of the normal map has elapsed and the judgment is positive (processing S206: Yes), the main control unit 40 executes confirmed display end processing (processing S207).

[0183] In process S207, the main control device 40 sets the display end of the normal symbol being confirmed and displayed on the normal symbol display device 285. The main control device 40 also transmits a command to the sub-integrated control device 42 to end the performance related to the normal symbol on the performance symbol display device 46. After process S207, the main control device 40 proceeds to process S208 shown in FIG.

[0184] As shown in FIG. 21, in process S208, the main control device 40 judges whether the result of the hit / miss judgment of the normal map is a hit or not. Then, if the result of the hit / miss judgment of the normal map is a hit and the judgment is affirmative (process S208: Yes), the main control device 40 performs a process to start a hit game (normal map game). Specifically, the main control device 40 performs a process to start the operation of the normal power role 22 (process S209). In addition, the main control device 40 transmits a hit game start command to the sub integrated control device 42 to instruct the start of a hit game presentation (process S210), and starts timing the start interval time of the hit game. After process S210, the main control device 40 proceeds to a normal map game process (process S250, see FIG. 20).

[0185] On the other hand, in process S208, if the result of the judgment of whether the normal game is a win or a loss is a loss, that is, if the judgment is negative (process S208: No), the main control device 40 skips processes S209 and S210 and proceeds to the normal game play processing (process S250).

[0186] Returning to Fig. 20, the explanation of the normal map correctness judgment process (process S200) will be continued. In process S205, if the normal map is not being confirmed and the judgment is negative (process S205: No), the main control device 40 judges whether or not there is a reserved memory of the normal map (process S211).

[0187] As a result, if there is no reserved memory of a normal map and the judgment is negative (process S211: No), the main control unit 40 proceeds to normal map game processing (process S250). On the other hand, if there is a reserved memory of a normal map and the judgment is positive (process S211: Yes), the main control unit 40 performs shift processing of the reserved memory of the normal map (process S212) and makes a win / loss judgment based on the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the normal map. Also, in conjunction with this process S212, the main control unit 40 subtracts 1 from the number of reserved memories of the normal map. Then, after process S212, the process proceeds to process S213 shown in FIG. 22.

[0188] As shown in Fig. 22, in process S213, the main control device 40 performs a win / loss judgment based on a win / loss judgment table (normal table) used for the normal figure and a win determination random number. As a result, if the result of the win / loss judgment is a win and the judgment is positive in process 214 (process S214: Yes), the main control device 40 determines the winning symbol of the normal figure based on the winning symbol determination random number (process S215) and determines the variation pattern based on the variation pattern determination random number (process S216). After that, the main control device 40 executes a win setting process (process S217) for setting the start interval time and end interval time of the winning game.

[0189] On the other hand, if the result of the win / loss judgment is a loss and the judgment is negative in process 214 (process S214: No), the main control unit 40 determines a losing symbol based on the random number for determining a winning symbol (process S218) and determines a variation pattern based on the random number for determining a variation pattern (process S219).

[0190] In the process S216 and the process S219, the main control device 40 determines the variation pattern so that the variation time of the normal figure is shorter than that in the normal game state if the game state is a probability variable game or a normal power support state, etc. For example, the main control device 40 selects a variation pattern with a variation time of 6.2 seconds if the game state is a normal game state, and selects a variation pattern with a variation time of 0.7 seconds, which is shorter than that in the normal game state, if the game state is a probability variable game or a normal power support state.

[0191] After the process S217 or S219, the main control device 40 transmits reserved memory information including information indicating a decrease in the reserved memory of the normal map to the sub-integrated control device 42 (process S220). Then, the sub-integrated control device 42 that has received the reserved memory information transmits the reserved memory information to the performance pattern control device 43 and updates the display contents of the reserved display of the normal map (not shown) on the performance pattern display device 46.

[0192] After the process S220, the main control device 40 transmits a normal map variation start command to the sub-integrated control device 42 (process S221). The process S221 is a pre-process for performing a performance corresponding to the normal map on the performance pattern display device 46 in conjunction with the display of the normal map variation on the normal pattern display device 285. Specifically, the main control device 40 transmits, as a normal map variation start command to the sub-integrated control device 42, a pattern variation start command including the result of the win / loss judgment and the normal map variation pattern, and a performance designation command designating a performance according to the winning pattern or losing pattern determined in the process S215 or process S218. After the process S221, the main control device 40 executes a normal map game process (process S250, FIG. 20).

[0193] (8-2: Normal game play processing) Next, the normal game play processing (process S250) executed in the normal game win / loss judgment processing (process S200) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 23. As shown in FIG. 23, the main control device 40 judges whether the normal power device 22 is open or not (process S251) as the first processing executed in the normal game play processing (process S250). Then, if the normal power device 22 is open and the judgment is positive (process S251: Yes), the main control device 40 proceeds to process S252 shown in FIG. 24.

[0194] As shown in FIG. 24, in process S252, the main control device 40 judges whether or not four game balls have entered the normal power device 22 based on the detection signal of the second special chart start switch 504. If the game balls that entered the normal power device 22 have not reached four and the judgment is negative (process S252: No), the main control device 40 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the normal power device 22 was released (process S253). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the normal power device 22 was released and the judgment is negative (process S253: No), the main control device 40 ends the normal chart game process (process S250, see FIG. 23) as it is, and returns to the win / loss judgment process (see FIG. 19).

[0195] On the other hand, if the number of game balls entering the normal power device 22 reaches four and the result of the determination in step S252 is positive (step S252: Yes), or if a predetermined time has elapsed since the normal power device 22 was opened and the result of the determination in step S252 is positive (step S253: Yes), the main control device 40 drives the normal power device solenoid 513 to close the normal power device 22 (step S254). Next, the main control device 40 executes an end interval process (step S255) that starts timing the end interval time. After step S255, the main control device 40 ends the normal game process (step S250) and returns.

[0196] Returning to Fig. 23, the explanation of the normal game process (process S250) will be continued. If the determination is negative in process S251 (process S251: No), the main control device 40 determines whether or not the end interval is in progress (process S256). If the determination is positive and the end interval is in progress (process S256: Yes), the main control device 40 then determines whether or not the end interval time has elapsed (process S257).

[0197] As a result, if the judgment is affirmative in process S257 (process S257: Yes), the main control device 40 executes the process of ending the winning game of the normal map in process S258, and transmits a winning game end command to the sub-integrated control device 42 in process S259. Then, the sub-integrated control device 42, having received the winning game end command, ends the winning game presentation. After process S259, the main control device 40 ends the normal map game process (process S250, see FIG. 23) and returns to the winning / losing judgment process (see FIG. 19). On the other hand, if the end interval time has not elapsed and the judgment is negative (process S257: No), the main control device 40 ends the normal map game process (process S250) as it is, and returns to the winning / losing judgment process.

[0198] Also, if the determination is negative in process S256 (process S256: No), the main control device 40 determines whether the start interval time has elapsed (process S260). As a result, if the start interval time has elapsed and the determination is positive (process S260: Yes), the main control device 40 drives the normal power role solenoid 513 in process S261 to open the normal power role 22. On the other hand, if the determination is negative in process S260 (process S260: No), the main control device 40 ends the normal game processing (process S250) as it is and returns to the win / lose determination processing.

[0199] (8-3: Special chart win / loss determination process) Next, the "special chart win / loss determination process" (process S300) executed in the win / loss determination process (process S25, see FIG. 19) will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 25 to FIG. 35. The special chart win / loss determination process (process S300) sequentially executes the "special chart win / loss determination process" shown in FIG. 25 to FIG. 29 and the "special game process" shown in FIG. 30 to FIG. 35. In the following description, except when it is necessary to distinguish between the first special chart and the second special chart, both are regarded as equivalent and are simply referred to as "special chart".

[0200] As shown in Fig. 25, in the "special winning / loosening determination process", the main control device 40 first determines whether the jackpot flag indicating a jackpot is "0" in process S301. If the determination is negative (process S301: No), the "special winning / loosening determination process" is terminated and the process proceeds to the "special game process" described later.

[0201] If the determination is affirmative in process S301 (process S301: Yes), it is determined in process S302 whether the small win flag indicating that a small win is occurring is "0." If the determination is negative (process S302: No), the process proceeds to the "special game process" described later.

[0202] If the determination is affirmative in process S302 (process S302: Yes), it is determined in process S303 whether the variation of the special chart is stopped. If the determination is affirmative (process S303: Yes), it is determined in process S304 whether the fixed pattern of the special chart is not yet displayed.

[0203] If the determination is affirmative in process S304 (process S304: Yes), it is determined in process S305 whether or not there is a reserved memory of the second special chart (process S305). If the determination is affirmative (process S305: Yes), a shift process of the reserved memory of the second special chart is performed in process S306. By the shift process, the random number of the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the second special chart is subject to a judgment of correctness.

[0204] On the other hand, if the result of the process S305 is negative (process S305: No), the process S307 determines whether or not there is a reserved memory of the first special drawing. If the result of the process S305 is positive (process S307: Yes), the process S308 performs a shift process of the reserved memory of the first special drawing. By the shift process, the random number of the oldest reserved memory among the reserved memories of the first special drawing is the object of the judgment of whether or not it is correct. In this way, the second special chart is given priority over the first special chart in determining whether it is correct or not. In the process S307, if there is no reserved memory of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol and the result is a negative judgment (process S307: No), the process proceeds to "special game process".

[0205] Following process S306 or process S308, as shown in FIG. 26, in process S310, the table for determining whether or not the random number is a hit is compared with the random number for determining whether or not the random number is a hit, and a hit / miss determination is made. Next, in process S311, it is determined whether or not the hit / miss determination is a hit (pattern hit). If it is a hit (pattern hit), (process S311: Yes), in process S312, the hit pattern is determined based on the value of the random number for determining the hit pattern, which is the random number for the hit / miss determination, and the current game state (normal game or normal power support state) (process S313).

[0206] Next, in process S314, a jackpot content setting process is performed, and the content of the jackpot game (special game) (opening pattern of the first large winning port 25, opening performance time, ending performance time, etc.) and the game state after the jackpot game are set based on the value of the random number for determining the jackpot symbol. Also, in this process S314, information such as the content of the jackpot game (special game) and the game state after the jackpot game is set is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42. The sub-integrated control device 42 stores the received information in a specified storage area.

[0207] Next, the first special chart or the second special chart is displayed in a variable manner on the first special chart display device 281 or the second special chart display device 283, and a special chart change start command including data showing the hit / miss judgment result (big hit, small hit, type of miss, presence or absence of reach, change time, etc.) is output to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 (process S315). As a result, the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 start changing the pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the first special chart or the second special chart on the performance pattern display device 46. Then, the process proceeds to "special game processing".

[0208] If the result of the process S311 is negative (no), as shown in Fig. 27, the process S320 determines whether the value of the random number for determining the big win matches the win value of the small win in the win / loss determination table. If the result of the process S320 is positive (yes), the small win symbol is determined based on the value of the random number for determining the symbol in the process S321.

[0209] In the subsequent process S322, which is a variation pattern determination process, a variation pattern for a small win is determined based on the value of the random number for determining the variation pattern and the current game state. In the subsequent small win opening pattern determination process S323, the opening pattern of the second large winning port 26 is determined according to the small win symbol determined in process S321.

[0210] Next, in the small win content setting process of process S324, the content of the small win game (for example, opening presentation time, ending presentation time, etc.) and the game status after the small win game ends are set based on the value of the random number for determining the big win pattern.

[0211] If the result of the process S311 and the process S320 is neither a big win nor a small win (process S311, process S320: No), the result of the win / loss determination is a miss. Therefore, a miss symbol is determined in process S325. Next, a miss variation pattern is determined (process S326).

[0212] After the end of process S324 or process S326, in process S327, it is determined whether the electric support flag is "1", and therefore whether or not it is in a normal power support state. If the electric support flag is "1" and the determination is affirmative (process S327: Yes), in process S328, a count process is performed on the electric support counter that counts the continuation of the normal power support state. In this case, the electric support counter includes a counter that counts the number of times the first special symbol changes, a counter that counts the number of times the second special symbol changes, and a counter that counts the combined number of times the first special symbol changes and the number of times the second special symbol changes. Then, "1" is added to the count value of some of the counters depending on the changing symbol. Then, the process proceeds to process S315.

[0213] If the determination is negative in process S303 shown in Fig. 25 (process S303: No), it is determined whether or not the special chart variation time has elapsed in process S330 as shown in Fig. 28. If the determination is negative (process S330: No), the process proceeds to "special game process".

[0214] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S330 that the variable time has elapsed (step S330: Yes), a symbol stop command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43 in step S331.

[0215] Next, in process S332, it is determined whether the pattern is a jackpot pattern. If the determination is affirmative (process S332: Yes), in process S333, a process is performed to display the jackpot pattern of the first special pattern or the second special pattern on the first special pattern display device 281 or the second special pattern display device 283. Accordingly, the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 display the pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the jackpot pattern of the first special pattern or the second special pattern on the performance pattern display device 46.

[0216] Next, the operation of the condition device is started (process S334), and the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is started (process S335). The condition device is a device necessary for the operation of the accessory continuous operation device in a big win game, and the accessory continuous operation device is a device that continuously operates the first special electric accessory.

[0217] Next, in process S336, it is determined whether the electric support flag is "1" (if it is 1, it is in the normal power support state). If the determination is affirmative (process S336: Yes), the electric support flag is reset to "0" in process S337. This transitions from the normal power support state to the normal game state. Then, in process S338, the jackpot flag is set to "1". After that, it transitions to "special game processing".

[0218] If the pattern is not a big win pattern and a negative judgment is made in process S332 (process S332: No), then in process S340 it is judged whether or not the pattern is a small win pattern. If the judgment is positive (process S340: Yes), then in process S341 a process is performed to confirm and display a small win pattern on the second special pattern display device 283. Accordingly, the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 confirm and display a pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the small win pattern of the second special pattern on the performance pattern display device 46. Then, in process S342, the small win flag is set to "1".

[0219] Next, in process S343, it is determined whether or not the electric support flag is "1." If the determination is negative (process S343: No), the process proceeds to process S346. If the determination is positive (process S343: Yes), in process S344, it is determined whether or not any of the three count values ​​of the electric support counter has reached the first, second, or third limit number. If the determination is negative (process S344: No), the process proceeds to process S346.

[0220] If the result of the process S344 is positive (process S341: Yes), the electric support flag is reset to "0" in process S345. As a result, the number of times the first special chart changes, the number of times the second special chart changes, or the total number of both has reached the first, second, or third limit, so the normal electric support state is terminated.

[0221] After the process S345, or if the process S343 or the process S344 is negative (process S343, process S344: No), in the process S346, a state designation command based on the open extension flag or the like is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43 in the state designation command transmission process. Then, the process proceeds to "special game process".

[0222] If the pattern is not a small win pattern in process S340 (process S340: No), it is a losing pattern, so in process S347, a process is performed to confirm and display the losing pattern on the first special pattern display device 281 or the second special pattern display device 283. Accordingly, the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 confirm and display a pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the losing pattern on the performance pattern display device 46. After that, in process S346, a state designation command transmission process is performed, and the process proceeds to "special game process".

[0223] If the determination is affirmative in process S304 of Fig. 25 (process S304: No), as shown in Fig. 29, it is determined whether the display time of the determined pattern has elapsed in process S350. If the determination is affirmative (process S350: Yes), in the determined pattern display end process of process S351, the first special pattern display device 281 or the second special pattern display device 283 ends the determined pattern display of the first special pattern or the second special pattern, and a command regarding the end of the determined pattern display is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43, and then the process proceeds to "special game process". In response to the command, the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance pattern control device 43 end the confirmed display of the pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the first special pattern or the second special pattern on the performance pattern display device 46.

[0224] If the determination in step S350 is negative (step S350: No), step S351 is skipped and the process proceeds to "special game process".

[0225] (8-4: Special Game Processing) Next, the "special game processing" for implementing the small win game and the big win game will be described with reference to Figs. 30 to 35. As shown in Fig. 30, the "special game processing" first judges whether the big win flag is "0" in process S400. If the judgment is positive (process S400: Yes), it is not a big win, so it is judged whether the small win flag is "0" in process S401 (process S401). If the judgment is positive (process S401: Yes), it is neither a big win nor a small win, so this "special game processing" is terminated and the process returns to the win / loss judgment process (see Fig. 19).

[0226] If the determination is negative in process S401 (process S401: No), it is a small win, so in process S402 it is determined whether or not the small win start performance is in progress (process S402). If the determination is positive and the small win performance is in progress (process S402: Yes), it is determined in process S403 whether or not the small win start performance end time has arrived. If the determination is positive (process S403: Yes), in the second large prize opening opening process of process S404, the second special electric door of the second special electric role is operated to open the second large prize opening 26 in the opening pattern set in process S323 (see FIG. 27). Next, in process S405, detection of a ball entering the second specific area 262 of the second large prize opening 26 is validated.

[0227] If the determination is negative in process S402 (process S402: No), then in process S406 it is determined whether the second large winning port 26 is open or not. If the determination is negative (process S406: No), then in process S407 it is determined whether the specific area 262 is valid or not. If the determination is negative (process S407: No), then in process S408 it is determined whether the small win end presentation is in progress, and if the determination is positive (process S408: Yes), then in process S409 it is determined whether it is time for the small win end presentation to end. If the determination is positive (process S409: Yes), then in process S410 the small win flag is reset to "0" and the small win game ends. Then, it returns.

[0228] If the result of the process S408 is negative (process S408: No), a small win start performance process is performed in process S411, and a small win start command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43. Then, the process returns.

[0229] If the second large prize opening 26 is open in process S406 and the result is positive (process S406: Yes), then it is determined in process S420 whether the number of balls entering the second large prize opening 26 has reached the specified number of 10 (process S420), as shown in Fig. 31. If the result is positive (process S420: Yes), then the second large prize opening 26 is closed in process S422.

[0230] On the other hand, if the determination is negative in process S420 (process S420: No), it is determined in process S421 whether the opening time of the second large prize opening 26 has ended. If the determination is positive (process S421: Yes), the second large prize opening 26 is closed in process S422.

[0231] If a negative judgment is made in process S421 (process S421: No), or if the specific area 262 is valid in process S407 (see Figure 30) (process S407: Yes), then, as shown in Figure 32, it is determined in process S430 whether or not a ball has entered the specific area 262 (a win).

[0232] If the determination in step S430 is affirmative (step S430: Yes), the operation of the condition device is started in step S431. Then, the operation of the accessory continuous operation device is started (step S432).

[0233] Next, in process S433, it is determined whether or not the second large prize opening 26 is open. If the determination is affirmative (process S433: Yes), the second large prize opening 26 is closed in process S434, and further the specific area 262 is invalidated in process S435.

[0234] After that, the following process is performed in the bonus jackpot setting process of process S436. First, the opening pattern of the first large winning port 25, the bonus jackpot start presentation time, the bonus jackpot end presentation time, etc. are set. Then, a bonus jackpot start command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the presentation pattern control device 43. Furthermore, in this process, the game state after the bonus jackpot game ends due to the bonus jackpot is set. Also, in this process S436, information such as the content of the jackpot game (special game) and the game state after the jackpot game ends is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42. The sub-integrated control device 42 stores the received information in a specified storage area.

[0235] Next, in process S437, the small win flag is reset to "0". Next, the big win flag is set to "1" (process S438). This causes a transition from a small win to a special big win. Furthermore, in process S439, the electric support flag is reset to "0". This causes the game state in the big win game caused by the special big win to transition from the normal electric support state to the normal game state. Then, return is made.

[0236] In addition, in this "special game processing", when the second large prize winning port 26 is open during the small prize game (processing S421: No), if a ball enters the specific area 262 (processing S430: Yes), the condition device and the consecutive operation device of the accessory are immediately operated to close the second large prize winning port 26 and transition to the accessory big win, but this is not limited to this. For example, when the number of balls entering the second large prize winning port 26 reaches a specified number (processing S420: Yes) or the opening time of the second large prize winning port 26 ends (processing S421: Yes), after the second large prize winning port 26 is closed, it is confirmed whether or not there is a ball entering the specific area 262, and if there is a ball entering, the condition device and the consecutive operation device of the accessory are operated to transition to the accessory big win.

[0237] If the result of the process S430 is negative (Process S430: No), the process S440 checks whether the effective period of the specific area 262 has ended. If the result of the process S440 is positive (Process S440: Yes), the process S441 sets the small win end performance, and transmits a small win end command to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43. Then, the process returns.

[0238] If the determination is negative in process S400 shown in Fig. 30 (process S400: No), as shown in Fig. 33, it is determined in process S450 whether the first large prize opening 25 is open or not. If the determination is negative (process S450: No), it is determined in process S451 whether it is during the interval of the large prize. If the determination is positive (process S451: Yes), it is determined in process S452 whether it is the end time of the interval, and if the determination is positive (process S452: Yes), the first special electric door of the first special electric role is operated in process S453 to open the first large prize opening 25 in the next round of the large prize game. Then, it returns.

[0239] If the determination is negative in process S451 (process S451: No), it is determined in process S454 whether or not the big win end presentation is in progress. If the determination is negative (process S454: No), it is determined in process S455 whether or not the big win start presentation is in progress.

[0240] If the determination is affirmative in process S455 (process S455: Yes), it is determined in process S456 whether the jackpot start performance time has elapsed. If the determination is affirmative (process S456: Yes), the first special electric door of the first special electric device is operated in process S457 to open the first big prize opening 25 in the first round of the jackpot game. Then, the process returns.

[0241] If the result of the process S455 is negative (process S455: No), a big win start performance process is performed in process S458, and a big win start command is transmitted to the sub integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43. Then, the process returns.

[0242] If the determination is affirmative in process S450 (process S450: Yes), as shown in Fig. 34, it is determined in process S460 whether the number of balls entering the first large prize opening 25 has reached the specified number of 10. If the determination is affirmative (process S460: Yes), the first large prize opening 25 is closed in process S462.

[0243] If the determination is negative in process S460 (process S460: No), then in process S461 it is determined whether the opening time of the first large prize opening 25 has ended. If the determination is negative (process S461: No), the process returns. If the determination is positive (process S461: Yes), then in process S462 the first large prize opening 25 is closed.

[0244] Next, in process S463, it is determined whether the final round of the jackpot has ended. If the determination is affirmative (process S463: Yes), in process S464, a jackpot end performance process is performed, and a jackpot end command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43 (process S464). Then, it returns.

[0245] If the result of the process S463 is negative (process S463: No), the process S465 performs an interval between openings (big win interval) process, thereby transmitting a big win interval command to the sub-integrated control device 42 and the performance symbol control device 43. Then, the process returns.

[0246] If the determination is affirmative in process S454 (see FIG. 33) (process S454: Yes), as shown in FIG. 35, it is determined in process S470 whether or not the big win end presentation time has elapsed. If the determination is negative (step S470: No), the process returns. If the answer is yes (process S470: Yes), the condition device is stopped in process S471, and the role object continuous operation device is stopped (process S472).

[0247] Next, in process S473, it is determined whether or not to transition to a normal power support state after the end of the jackpot game according to the jackpot symbol or the small jackpot symbol (process S473). If the determination is positive (process S473: Yes), in process S474, the end condition of the normal power support state selected in the jackpot content setting process (S314 in FIG. 26 or process S436 in FIG. 32) is set. Then, in process S475, the electric support flag is set to "1". By setting the electric support flag to "1", the state transitions to the normal power support state.

[0248] Next, in process S476, the game state after the big win game is set, and if the game state transitions to the normal power support state after the big win game is completed, the game state is set to the normal power support state. Then, in process S477, the big win flag is reset to "0" to end the big win game.

[0249] (9. Hold consecutive announcement performance and electric support final change performance) Next, the hold consecutive announcement performance and the final change performance in the normal electric support state that the pachinko machine 1 performs at the end performance of the big win game will be explained.

[0250] (9-1: Hold consecutive announcement performance) Hold consecutive announcement performance is a performance that suggests that there is a possibility of winning consecutive jackpots after the jackpot game due to the reserved memory that is stored and exists until the end of the jackpot game. In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is advantageous for winning small jackpots in the normal power support state, and since the small jackpot will become a special jackpot with almost 100% probability, it is possible to win consecutive jackpots.

[0251] In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is configured such that when the normal power support state after the end of a jackpot game is one time, the end condition of which is a limit on the number of times the second special chart can be played (hereinafter referred to as the second limit) of one time, the reserved consecutive win notice performance is not performed, and when the normal power support state is one time, the end condition of which is a second limit of seven times, the reserved consecutive win notice performance is performed.

[0252] The reserved consecutive announcement performance is an effect that is implemented by the effect pattern display device 46 via the effect pattern control device 43 under the control of the sub-integrated control device 42. The reserved consecutive announcement performance is implemented, for example, by the "reserved consecutive announcement performance process" shown in FIG.

[0253] (9-2: Hold consecutive announcement performance processing) With reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 36, the "hold consecutive announcement performance processing" executed by the sub-integrated control device 42 will be described. As shown in Fig. 36, in the "hold consecutive announcement performance processing", the sub-integrated control device 42 first determines in process S501 whether or not it has received a jackpot end performance command (see Fig. 26: process S315) from the main control device 40. If the determination is negative (process S501: No), this process is terminated and the process returns to the main routine executed by the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0254] If the determination in process S501 is positive (process S501: Yes), in process S502, information on the normal power support state to which the transition will occur after the end of the jackpot game is confirmed. In this process S502, based on the setting information of the game state after the end of the jackpot game received and stored from the main control device 40 (see FIG. 26: process S314:, see FIG. 32: process S436), it is confirmed whether the second limit number of times is the normal power support state of "1 time" or the normal power support state of "7 times".

[0255] Next, in process S503, it is determined whether the normal power support state to which the transition occurs after the end of the big win game is the normal power support state with the second limit number of times of "7 times". If the determination is negative (process S503: No), the process returns.

[0256] If the determination in process S503 is positive (process S503: Yes), for example, based on a look-ahead command from the main control device 40 (see FIG. 17: process S113, process S118), in process S504, it is determined whether or not there is a memory in the reserved memory that will be a small hit or a big hit, and it is determined whether or not to perform the reserved consecutive announcement performance. In this process, for example, if there is a memory in the reserved memory that will be a small hit or a big hit, a decision is made to perform the performance. After that, it may be determined whether or not to perform the reserved consecutive announcement performance by lottery or the like. Of course, it may be determined to perform the performance even if there is no memory in the reserved memory that will be a small hit or a big hit and all are misses. Note that although both small hits and big hits are the subject of the reserved consecutive announcement performance, it is also possible to target only small hits, or a configuration in which only big hits are announced may be used. In particular, in the case of a game configuration in which even if a small hit occurs, it is almost certain that a special feature will not hit the jackpot, only the jackpot may be used. It is possible to make it a notification performance that will definitely result in a jackpot. In the next process S505, it is determined whether or not to perform the pending consecutive notice performance based on the result of the determination in the process S504. If the determination is negative (process S505: No), the process returns.

[0257] If the judgment is affirmative in process S505 (process S505: Yes), a process for implementing a reserved consecutive announcement performance in the big win end performance is performed in process S506. As a result, a command for starting the performance is transmitted from the sub-integrated control device 42 to the performance pattern control device 43, and the reserved consecutive announcement performance is implemented in the performance pattern display device 46 via the performance pattern control device 43 in response to the command. Then, the process returns.

[0258] The final electric support variation performance, for example, performs a performance in which the variation of the last second special chart in the normal electric support state and the variation of the reserved memory existing at this point are made to look like one variation. Note that the final electric support variation performance is configured to perform the performance even if the second limit number of times is "1 time" or "7 times" as the end condition of the normal electric support state.

[0259] In the case of the final electric support variation performance, if the last final variation in the normal electric support state is a hit (small hit or big hit), the electric support final variation performance will notify you that it is a hit and end the performance. In other words, the reserved memory changes will not be performed all at once.

[0260] In addition, even if the judgment result of the final change in the normal power support state is a miss, if there is a memory in the reserved memory that will result in a jackpot, the electric support final change performance does not suggest that the final change is a miss, but is combined in a series with the performance up to the subsequent change in the reserved memory that will result in a jackpot. Then, the winning performance pattern of the reserved memory that will result in a jackpot is displayed in a definitive manner, so that the multiple changes appear as if they were one change. For example, in the performance change of the pseudo pattern of the final change, the performance change of the reserved memory that will result in a jackpot is performed and the jackpot pattern is displayed in a definitive manner, and while the special pattern display device (281, 283) is performing the change of the reserved memory that will result in a jackpot, a performance suggesting a jackpot or an interval performance with the start of the jackpot game may be performed. Note that a reach performance may be performed before the jackpot pattern is displayed in the electric support final change performance.

[0261] Similarly, even if the judgment result of the final change is a miss, if there is a memory in the reserved memory that will be a small win, a performance is implemented that suggests information about a big win game that will be developed from the small win game. In this case, the electric support final change performance does not suggest that the final change is a miss, and is combined in a series with the performance up to the subsequent change of the reserved memory that will be a small win. Then, the performance pattern indicating the small win of the reserved memory is displayed in a definitive manner, so that the multiple changes are performed as if they were one change. For example, in the performance change of the pseudo pattern of the final change, the performance change of the reserved memory that will be a small win is performed and the small win pattern is displayed in a definitive manner, and while the special pattern display device (281, 283) is performing the change of the reserved memory that will be a small win, a performance suggesting a small win or an interval performance with the start of the small win game may be performed. Note that a reach performance may be performed before the small win pattern is displayed in the electric support special performance.

[0262] (9-3: Electric support final change performance) The electric support final change performance is a performance performed by the performance pattern display device 46 via the performance pattern control device 43 under the control of the sub-integrated control device 42. The electric support final change performance is performed, for example, by the "final change performance processing" shown in FIG.

[0263] (9-4: Final fluctuation performance processing) Next, the "final fluctuation performance processing" executed by the sub-integrated control device 42 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 37. As shown in Fig. 37, in the "final fluctuation performance processing", the sub-integrated control device 42 first determines in process S521 whether or not it has received a fluctuation start command (see process S315 in Fig. 26) from the main control device 40. If the determination is negative (process S521: No), this process is terminated and the process returns to the main routine executed by the sub-integrated control device 42.

[0264] If the determination in step S521 is positive (step S521: Yes), then in step S522, it is determined whether or not there is a reserved memory. In this step S522, the existence of reserved memory is confirmed based on the reserved number instruction command (see FIG. 17: steps S114 and S119) received from the main control device 40. If the determination is negative (step S522: No), the process returns.

[0265] If the determination is affirmative in process S522 (process S522: Yes), it is determined in process S523 whether the gaming state is the normal power support state. If the determination is negative (process S523: No), the process returns. On the other hand, if the determination is affirmative (process S523: Yes), in process S524, it is determined whether the number of times the first special chart has changed, which is one of the conditions for ending the normal power support state, is 99 times. If the determination is affirmative (step S524: Yes), the process proceeds to step S527.

[0266] If the determination is negative in process S524 (process S524: No), it is determined in process S525 whether the number of times the second special symbol changes, which is one of the conditions for ending the normal power support state, is the limited number of times (1st or 7th). For example, if the jackpot game that caused the normal power support state was "4R special offer available", it is determined whether it was the 1st time, and if it was a small jackpot pattern other than these, it is determined whether it was the 7th time. If the determination is positive (process S525: Yes), it proceeds to process S527.

[0267] If the result of the process S525 is negative (process S525: No), the process S526 determines whether the total number of changes of the first special chart and the second special chart, which is one of the conditions for ending the normal power support state, is 99. If the result of the process S526 is negative (process S526: No), the process returns.

[0268] If the determination in process S526 is positive (process S526: Yes), then in process S527, for example, it is determined whether the final change will be a small hit or a big hit based on the change start command from the main control device 40 (see FIG. 26: process S315), and it is decided whether or not to implement the electric support final change presentation. In this process, for example, a decision is made to implement a presentation if the final change is not a small hit or a big hit. Furthermore, it may be decided whether or not to implement a pending consecutive announcement presentation by lottery or the like. Then, in process S528, it is determined whether or not to implement the electric support final change presentation based on the result of the determination in process S527. If the determination is negative (process S528: No), return is made.

[0269] If the determination in process S528 is affirmative (process S528: Yes), the electric support final variation performance is started in process S529. As a result, a command to start the performance is sent from the sub-integrated control device 42 to the performance pattern control device 43, and the electric support final variation performance is performed in the performance pattern display device 46 via the performance pattern control device 43 in response to the command. Then, the process returns.

[0270] (9-5: Examples of pending consecutive announcement effects and electric support final change effects) Examples of pending consecutive announcement effects and electric support final change effects will be described with reference to the timing chart shown in FIG. FIG. 38(a) is a timing chart showing the implementation of the electric support final change performance in the normal power support state where the second limit number is "1 time". In the normal power support state, the reserved consecutive announcement performance is not implemented during the jackpot game. In this embodiment, when the second limit number is "1 time", the electric support final change performance is performed suddenly, and all reserved that occurred in the normal power support state becomes the subject of the electric support final change performance. The electric support final change performance is a winning performance that is performed if any one of the multiple win / loss judgment results (up to five in this embodiment) is a win, and this performance has a higher expectation of winning than a typical performance that performs one performance for one win / loss judgment. If the reserved balls that are the subject of such highly anticipated effects are announced in advance during jackpot play, it will reduce interest in the electric support final change effects. Therefore, if the second limit is "1 time", the reserved ball consecutive announcement effect is not implemented, thereby enhancing the presentation power of the electric support final change effects.

[0271] As shown in FIG. 38(a), when the big win game ends, [A], the normal power support state is entered [B], and after the big win game ends, the second special chart starts to change [C]. The change here is the display of the second special chart change on the second special chart display device 283. This change [C] is the final change in the normal power support state, and the normal power support state ends with the end of change [C]. If the judgment result of change [C] is a miss, the final change performance of the electric support starts [D]. On the other hand, although not shown, if the final change is a small win or a big win, the final change performance of the electric support is not performed, and a notification is issued that it is a small win or a big win, and the game moves to a small win or a big win.

[0272] When the final variation is a miss and the electric support final variation performance starts, the electric support final variation performance is performed for a total of five variations, including the final variation [U] and the four variations [O, Ka, Ki, Ku] that are performed afterwards due to the reserved memory. In this case, the ball entry rate into the second special chart start hole 24 during the final variation is high, and the reserved memory becomes a specified number during the final variation. In addition, the variation time of the second special chart corresponding to the reserved memory is set to an extremely short variation pattern (for example, 0.5 seconds).

[0273] For example, if the fourth reserved memory of the target is a small win, the electric support final change performance will notify you of the small win during the final change period, and an absorption performance will be performed across the changes of the four reserved memories, making the final change and the changes of the four reserved memories look like a single change. Specifically, a battle performance will be performed during the final change period, and a scene in which the friendly character wins and rejoices in the absorption performance will be displayed continuously until the change of the fourth reserved memory is completed.

[0274] The continuation display of the absorption effect in the final variation effect of the electric support changes depending on the position of the reserved memory that is the hit. In other words, if the first reserved memory is a hit, the period of the absorption effect will be the period of the special chart fluctuation for the first reserved memory, and if the third reserved memory is a hit, the period of the absorption effect will be the period of the special chart fluctuation for the first three reserved memories. In addition, in the normal power support state with the limit of "1 time", the pachinko machine 1 has a chance of winning consecutive jackpots through a total of five fluctuations, including the final fluctuation and the four reserved memories.

[0275] FIG. 38(b) is a timing chart showing the implementation of the reserved consecutive announcement performance and the electric support final change performance in the normal power support state with the second limit of "7 times". In the normal power support state, if there is a reserved memory that will be a small hit or a big hit during a big hit game, the reserved consecutive announcement performance is implemented just before the end of the big hit game. When the second limit of the number of times is "7 times", the reserved memory that is reserved during a big hit game is notified by one change performance for the result of one hit / miss judgment in the normal power support state, and is not subject to the electric support final change performance, so even if a reserved consecutive announcement performance is performed, it can be implemented without hindering the performance power of either performance.

[0276] As shown in FIG. 38(b), when the big win game ends [A], the normal power support state is entered [B]. After the big win game ends, the second special chart starts to change [C]. As the game progresses, the seventh change of the second special chart [K] starts. This change [K] is the final change of the normal power support state, and the normal power support state ends with the end of change [K]. If the judgment result of change [K] is a miss, the final change performance of the electric support starts [D]. On the other hand, although not shown, if the final change is a small win or a big win, the final change performance of the electric support is not performed, and a notification is issued that it is a small win or a big win, and the game moves to a small win or a big win.

[0277] When the final variation is a miss and the electric support final variation performance starts, the electric support final variation performance is performed for a total of five variations, including the final variation [K] and the four variations [O, Ka, Ki, Ku] due to the reserved memory that follow. In this case, the ball entry rate into the second special chart start hole 24 during the final variation is high, and the reserved memory becomes a specified number during the final variation. In addition, the variation time of the second special chart corresponding to the reserved memory is an extremely short variation pattern (for example, 0.5 seconds).

[0278] For example, if the fourth reserved memory of the target is a small win, the electric support final change performance will notify you of the small win during the final change period, and an absorption performance will be performed across the changes of the four reserved memories, making the final change and the changes of the four reserved memories look like a single change. Specifically, a battle performance will be performed during the final change period, and a scene in which the friendly character wins and rejoices in the absorption performance will be displayed continuously until the change of the fourth reserved memory is completed.

[0279] The continuation display of the absorption effect in the final variation effect of the electric support changes depending on the position of the reserved memory that is the hit. In other words, if the first reserved memory is a hit, the period of the absorption effect will be the period of the special chart fluctuation for the first reserved memory, and if the third reserved memory is a hit, the period of the absorption effect will be the period of the special chart fluctuation for the first three reserved memories. In addition, in the normal power support state where the second limit number is "7 times", the pachinko machine 1 has a chance of winning consecutive jackpots through a total of 11 fluctuations, including the final fluctuation and the four reserved memories.

[0280] The basic configuration of the pachinko machine 1 is that in the electric support final variation performance, the performance time including the final variation period and the absorption performance period changes depending on the number of reserved memories. However, this is not limited to this, and the performance time may be the same regardless of the number of reserved memories. In addition, the electric support final variation performance may be configured without the absorption performance. The electric support final variation performance is performed after referring to the hit or miss of the reserved memories, but the hit or miss may be indicated by performing a variation performance for each of the targeted reserved memories. In that case, if the target variation of the electric support final variation performance is a hit, of course, a performance indicating the occurrence of a jackpot will be performed, and if the variation is a miss, a performance that indicates that a jackpot will occur will be performed even if a jackpot does not occur at the end of the variation.

[0281] (9-6: Display mode of effects) Next, examples of the display of the pseudo symbol change effects, the electric support final change effects, and the pending consecutive advance notice effects will be described.

[0282] When the first or second special pattern starts to change in response to the win / loss judgment, the pachinko machine 1 starts changing the pseudo performance pattern corresponding to the first or second special pattern in the performance pattern display device 46. As shown in FIG. 39(a), the pseudo performance pattern 700 consisting of three number patterns or the like corresponding to the change of the first or second special pattern is displayed in three horizontally arranged areas as a basic performance mode, in order from the left, in the left performance pattern, the center performance pattern, and the right performance pattern (FIG. 39(a)). After starting the display of the three performance patterns, the left performance pattern is temporarily stopped in a shaking state. Following the temporary stop of the left performance pattern, a reach pseudo performance pattern 701 is displayed, which temporarily stops the right performance pattern in a shaking state. (FIG. 39(b)). Following the provisional stop of the right side performance pattern, the central performance pattern is provisionally stopped in a swaying state, and after the three performance patterns are provisionally stopped, the three provisionally stopped performance patterns are displayed as finalized in a completely stopped state (Fig. 39(c)). When the jackpot pattern of the first or second special pattern is displayed as finalized following the hit / miss determination, the combination of performance patterns suggesting a jackpot win is displayed as finalized.

[0283] In a state where only the left side performance pattern is temporarily stopped, the display mode (for example, moving speed, size, color, etc.) of the right side performance pattern may be changed to determine whether the right side performance pattern will temporarily stop with the same pattern as the left side performance pattern (so-called "reach" state). In a normal reach state (Figure 39 (b)) where the left side performance pattern and the right side performance pattern are temporarily stopped with the same pattern, it is determined whether the central performance pattern will temporarily stop with the same pattern as the other performance patterns (so-called "jackpot confirmed" state), or whether it will develop into a performance with a higher expectation of winning a jackpot (so-called "super reach" state). In the super reach state, it is determined whether the central performance pattern will temporarily stop with the same pattern as the other performance patterns (so-called "jackpot confirmed" state).

[0284] In the pachinko machine 1, a first reserved memory display image 731 indicating the presence of reserved memory of the first special symbol is displayed on the lower left side of the display screen. Similarly, a second reserved memory display image 732 indicating the presence of reserved memory of the second special symbol is displayed on the lower right side.

[0285] In the pachinko machine 1, if the expectation of a big win is high when the pseudo performance symbol 700 changes, the pachinko machine 1 develops into a reach performance. In this case, as shown in Fig. 39(b), a reach suggestion display section 722 is displayed on the upper left side of the display screen of the performance symbol display device 46, and a large reach pseudo performance symbol 701 is displayed on the display screen. In the reach pseudo performance symbol 701, the two symbols on both sides temporarily stop at the same symbol, and only the central symbol is considered to be changing.

[0286] In the pachinko machine 1, if the result of the hit / miss judgment of the first or second special chart is a hit (pattern hit), as shown in Fig. 39(c), a hit suggestion display section 723 is displayed on the upper left side of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. Then, a large pseudo-hit performance pattern 702 consisting of three identical patterns corresponding to the hit pattern of the first or second special chart is displayed on the display screen.

[0287] If the result of the hit / miss judgment is a small hit, the pachinko machine 1 displays a pseudo small hit performance pattern 703, which is a pseudo small hit performance pattern consisting of three identical small hit patterns corresponding to the small hit pattern of the second special chart, on the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46, as shown in FIG. 41(b) (not shown) to be described later.

[0288] Next, the display mode of the electric support final change performance will be explained with reference to Fig. 40. When the final change of the second special chart in the normal power support state starts, as shown in Fig. 40(a), the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46 displays a "Tatsuyoshi Chance" image 725 on the upper left side, indicating that this is the final change of the normal power support state and indicating a chance to hit a jackpot. On the upper right side, a pseudo performance pattern 700 consisting of three reduced number patterns or the like is displayed in a changing manner.

[0289] Then, in the center of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46, a chance image 741 is displayed in which a karate practitioner is training to break a rock. The chance image 741 indicates that if the rock is broken, it will be a big win. In the illustrated example, the second reserved memory display image 732 indicates that there are four reserved memories. In this case, the electric support final variation performance is a performance that targets five variations.

[0290] The final electric support variation effect display example shown in Fig. 40(b) is a display mode of the absorption effect when all variations are misses. As shown in Fig. 40(b), the display screen of the effect pattern display device 46 displays a miss pseudo effect pattern 700 on the upper right side. Then, in the center of the display screen, a miss image 742 is displayed, indicating that the karateka is unable to break the rock and has missed.

[0291] On the other hand, if there is a small win in either the final change of the electric support or the change of the reserved memory, as shown in FIG. 40(c), a pseudo performance pattern 703 of a small win is displayed on the upper right side of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. Then, in the center of the display screen, a winning image 743 is displayed, indicating that the karateka can break the rock and that it is a win. In the illustrated example, the second reserved memory display image 732 indicates that there are two reserved memories, and a small win has occurred in the second reserved memory from the final change.

[0292] The variation display example shown in Fig. 41(a) is an example of a pseudo pattern variation from 1 to 6 times in a normal power support state with a second limit of "7 times". As shown in Fig. 41(a), the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46 displays a "Tatsukichi RUSH" image 726 at the top, indicating that the limit of the number of times is a multiple normal power support state, and indicating that there is a chance to hit a jackpot.

[0293] Also, on the upper left side of the display screen, a continuation image 727 is displayed, which indicates the remaining number of changes that the normal power support state will continue. In the illustrated example, "Aim for V! 6 times remaining" is displayed, indicating that there are 6 times left in the normal power support state. On the upper right side of the display screen, a second reserved memory display image is displayed, which indicates the number of reserved memories for the second special chart in numbers, indicating that there are 3 reserved memories.

[0294] In the center of the display screen, a performance image 751 is displayed in which the main character of the pachinko machine 1, "Tatsuyoshi the Bear," is trying to catch the "V," creating a performance that heightens the expectation of a big win. On the right side of the lower part of the display screen, a pseudo performance pattern 700 consisting of three reduced number patterns or the like is displayed in a variable manner. If "Tatsuyoshi the Bear" can successfully catch the "V" in the performance image 751, it will indicate that a win has occurred, as shown in FIG. 42(a). In this case, the win occurs before the final fluctuation of the normal power support state, and the final electric support fluctuation performance is not performed. On the other hand, if no win occurs in the first to sixth fluctuations of the normal power support state, the final electric support fluctuation performance is performed in the seventh fluctuation.

[0295] Next, the display mode of the reserved consecutive announcement performance will be explained with reference to Fig. 43. When the big win game ends, as shown in Fig. 43(a), a character end image 761 indicating that the big win game "Tatsuyoshi Bonus" has ended is displayed at the top of the display screen of the performance pattern display device 46. The character end image 761 displays the final round number of the big win game. And, a character end image 762 is displayed large in the center of the display screen.

[0296] Then, at the end of the big win game, if there is a hit in the reserved memory, the reserved consecutive announcement performance is performed. As shown in Fig. 43(b), the reserved consecutive announcement performance is configured such that the image is switched from the character end image 762 (see Fig. 43(a)) in the center of the display screen, and the reserved consecutive announcement display 771 is displayed based on the number of hits in the reserved memory. In this way, the reserved consecutive win preview performance indicates that there is a win in the reserved memory by changing the image at the end of the big win game.

[0297] The reserved consecutive win notice display 771 indicates that there is a win in the reserved memory at the end of the jackpot game, and in Figure 43 (b) it displays V x 2, indicating that there are at least two wins in the reserved memory.

[0298] The reserved consecutive prediction display 771 also shows V×2 waiting as shown in Fig. 41(b) in the change display after the end of the jackpot game. Then, when the change becomes a win, the jackpot announcement performance 772 shows V released!! as shown in Fig. 41(c), and the V×2 wait becomes V×1 wait, indicating that a win will occur, and the reserved memory predicted by the reserved consecutive prediction performance results in a jackpot (Fig. 42(b)). After that, when the jackpot game starts, V×1 waiting is displayed even during the jackpot game as shown in Fig. 43(c), indicating that there is at least one win in the reserved memory. In this embodiment, at the end of the jackpot game, V x 2 is displayed, and in the variable display it says V x 2 waiting, but both may be displayed the same, and if the player can recognize that there is a hit in the reserved memory, the player may be notified in any way, such as by displaying an icon indicating the number of hits in the reserved memory, or by displaying an image corresponding to the number of hits (by changing the size, shape, color, etc.).

[0299] In this embodiment, when the jackpot game ends, V x 2 is displayed, and while the changing display is in progress, V x 2 waiting is displayed, and when the changing display becomes a hit, V released!!, a jackpot announcement effect 772, is displayed, and by changing to V x 1, it is indicated that there are at least two hits in the reserved memory, and when a hit occurs, the number of hits in the reserved memory has decreased by one.

[0300] After the reserved consecutive announcement performance is performed in the jackpot game, if the reserved consecutive announcement performance is performed in the first normal power support state of "1 time" in which the limited number of times to be performed after the jackpot game ends is less than the specified number of reserved memory, it will overlap with the electric support final change performance. Therefore, the pachinko machine 1 is configured to perform the reserved consecutive announcement performance in the jackpot game only when the normal power support state to be performed after the jackpot game ends is the second normal power support state in which the limited number of times (7 times) is more than the specified number of reserved memory, but the electric support final change performance may also be performed in the first normal power support state of "1 time", and by doing so, the electric support final change performance can be viewed with peace of mind. However, if there are many patterns in which it is decided that a hit will occur first in the final change performance of the electric support, the final change performance of the electric support will become less interesting, and if there is no pending consecutive win notice performance, it is conceivable that there is a high possibility of a miss. Therefore, it is preferable to make the possibility of the pending consecutive win notice performance being displayed low when in the first normal electric support state of "1 time" (at least lower than when there is a limited number of times (7 times), or to make it higher when the pending consecutive win notice performance is displayed than when it is not) so that it appears only rarely. If the reserved consecutive balls preview is performed when the number of times is greater than the limit (7 times) of the reserved memory, the reserved consecutive balls preview that was displayed at the end of the jackpot will not generally be displayed in the final change performance.

[0301] In the pachinko machine of this embodiment, the reserved consecutive announcement performance is executed when there is a hit in the reserved memory, but even if there is no hit in the reserved memory, if the next hit is confirmed, the reserved consecutive announcement performance may be executed. For example, the state in which the next hit is confirmed is when the limit number of times of the second special chart, which is the end condition of the normal power support state, is 10,000 times, and it will almost certainly be a hit before the limit number is reached. In addition to the hit that is the end condition, if the limit number of times that is implemented after the end of the jackpot game is 10,000 times, a reserved consecutive announcement performance that displays V x 1 is executed at the end of the jackpot game, and the display of V x 1 continues even after the end of the jackpot game, and when it changes to a jackpot, V release!! is displayed, and the jackpot game begins.

[0302] The hold consecutive balls preview performance was performed at the end of a jackpot game, but it is not limited to this timing and may be performed at the start of a jackpot game or during a jackpot game, or if there is a winning hold during a fluctuation, a hold consecutive balls preview performance may be performed. A new hold memory may be added while the hold consecutive balls preview performance is being displayed, and if this is a winning hold memory, a number may be added to the value of the number of wins in the hold consecutive balls preview performance being displayed. In this way, the player can look forward to a win in the reserved memory at various times, not just at the end of a big win game. Even with these timings, the number of hits in the reserved memory and the value of the reserved consecutive preview display may be made different, as in the embodiment.

[0303] In addition, the final change performance is a performance that makes the final change and the changes in the four reserved memories look like one change, and there is a possibility that there are multiple hits in the reserved memory. Therefore, if there are multiple hits in the reserved memory in the final change performance, a display that suggests that there are multiple hits may be displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 40(c), in addition to the display of a hit image 743 indicating that the karateka can break the rock and hit, a display such as V×2 is displayed. By doing this, the interest in the final change performance can be further improved, and the reserved consecutive announcement performance may be performed even in the first normal power support state of "1 time", or when the reserved consecutive announcement performance is performed during the change display, only the fact that there is a hit in the reserved (for example, V×1) may be displayed in the reserved consecutive announcement performance, and the value displayed in the reserved consecutive announcement performance may be increased in the final change performance. By doing this, even if the reserved consecutive announcement performance is displayed, the player can be interested in the final change performance, and the interest in the performance may be improved.

[0304] In this embodiment, a hold consecutive prediction effect is executed, and when a winning fluctuation occurs, V Release!! is displayed, but the timing of V Release!! display may be at any timing during the fluctuation that leads to a jackpot, and there may be multiple times such as at the start of the fluctuation, in the middle of the fluctuation, when a reach is reached, when the jackpot performance pattern is displayed or when a jackpot is confirmed, and the timing of display may be different depending on the degree of advantage at the time of the jackpot. For example, when there is a 3R bonus, the timing of V release!! is as shown in Fig. 44(a) when the left side, center, and right side performance patterns are displayed in the early stage of the variable display immediately after the start of the variable display, indicating a jackpot, and when there is a 15R bonus 3, the timing of V release!! is as shown in Fig. 44(b) when the variable patterns are displayed in the final stage of the variable display, indicating a jackpot, so that the player can play while hoping that the V release!! display will appear at the end of the variable display. In this way, the closer to the end of the variable display the V release!! is, the more advantageous the jackpot will be for the player.

[0305] By doing this, since the pending consecutive win notice display 771 is displayed, it is confirmed that a jackpot will occur, and in a conventional gaming machine, the jackpot announcement effect 772 occurs and the player simply waits for a win. However, according to the present invention, the timing of the jackpot announcement effect 772 varies depending on the degree of advantage, so that the player can play the game not only by waiting for it to occur but also by anticipating when it will occur.

[0306] In this embodiment, the hold consecutive wins notification display 771 was displayed using the results of a look-ahead judgment, but it is also possible to implement a win notification display that notifies the player that a jackpot will occur before the variable display that will result in a jackpot is confirmed, without performing look-ahead judgment or a hold consecutive wins notification display, and to achieve the same effect as this embodiment by varying the timing of the display depending on the degree of advantage at the time of the jackpot, just as in this embodiment.

[0307] In addition, the timing of the occurrence of the jackpot announcement performance 772 is set to 3R bonus available at the beginning of the variable display and 15R bonus available 3 at the end of the variable display, but it may be set so that the closer to the beginning of the variable display, the more likely the jackpot is to be less advantageous to the player, and the closer to the end of the variable display, the more likely the jackpot is to be more advantageous to the player. For example, for the highly advantageous 15R bonus available 3, V release!! is displayed with a 10% probability at the beginning of the variable display when the variable display starts to fluctuate, V release!! is displayed with a 30% probability when the variable display is in the middle of the reach, and V release!! is displayed with a 60% probability when the jackpot performance pattern is displayed at the end of the variable display. Similarly, other jackpots are more likely to appear at the end as their advantages increase. Since it can be displayed at any time like this, the earlier in the display the fluctuations are, the more likely it is that the jackpot will be less favorable, and the later in the display the more favorable the jackpot will be. By doing this, you can hope that V Release!! will not be displayed at an early stage in the display, and even if V Release!! is displayed at the beginning of the display, there is a possibility of 15R Bonus 3, so you can have hope for the type of jackpot.

[0308] The more advantageous the jackpot is for the player, the more likely the jackpot notification effect 772 is to be displayed at the end of the variable display. Conversely, the more likely the jackpot notification effect 772 is to be displayed at the beginning of the variable display, the more likely it is that the jackpot will be played. By doing this, the player can expect the jackpot notification effect 772 to occur earlier, and can enjoy the game in a different way from other games, hoping that the jackpot notification effect 772 will not occur at the end of the game and will not be displayed at the same time. Of course, the timing diagram 44(c) may be a mid-game or a reach, not just an early or late game.

[0309] It is also possible to implement a display that suggests the timing of the occurrence of the jackpot announcement display 772. For example, during the changing display, a display such as "V release!! Almost there!?" or "V release in 5 seconds?" can be displayed to suggest that it may occur and excite the player.

[0310] In this embodiment, the player may be informed of the timing at which the winning notification effect 772 occurs to be advantageous. For example, during a game, "The closer to the end of the variable display the V release occurs, the more advantageous it is" is displayed. The display timing may be when the variable display in which the big win notification effect 772 occurs, or may be displayed as a game explanation when the variable display in which the big win notification effect does not occur, or may be displayed during non-playing, or the timing at which the notification effect 772 occurs may be notified of whether it is an advantageous timing or not. By notifying in this way, the player can understand the timing at which to expect it, improving the fun of the game.

[0311] Regarding the timing of the big win notification effect 772, a performance customization function is provided that allows the player to adjust the embodiment of the performance (for example, the frequency of occurrence of the advance notice effect, the reliability, etc.), and the performance customization function may also allow the player to select the timing of the big win notification effect 772 by operating means. For example, it may be possible to select whether it is more advantageous for the player if the big win notification effect 772 occurs in the beginning, end, or middle of the variable display. In this way, the performance can be executed according to the player's preference, and the player can be satisfied.

[0312] In this embodiment, after the big win notification performance 772 occurs, a performance suggesting the advantage of the big win may be performed. For example, between the occurrence of the big win notification performance 772 and the confirmation display of the variable pattern, the advantage may be suggested by what is displayed from among multiple performances or multiple characters, or the color of the effect or the like may change or a character may appear and suggest the advantage by its color or character every time a ball is detected entering a predetermined place. By doing this, even after the big win notification performance 772 occurs, the player can be interested in the variable display and can enjoy the variable performance to the end. Also, by making a suggestion every time a ball enters a predetermined place (for example, a starting hole, a normal operation hole, an out hole, etc.), the player can play without stopping the shot.

[0313] In this embodiment, the advantage of a jackpot is shown as the number of rounds of play as an example, but the advantage can be anything as long as it is different, and it can be the state after the jackpot (special offer or normal, number of time-saving options), or whether or not there is a jackpot in the reserve at the time of the jackpot, etc.

[0314] Of course, the present invention can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the present invention is a so-called one-type two-type mixed machine that has a specific area inside the large winning opening that opens during a small winning game, and when a game ball enters the large winning opening during a small winning game and the entered game ball passes through the specific area, it develops into a big winning game, but it may be a game machine that transitions to a probability variable game state, and it is sufficient if it can notify a win when there is a big winning in the reserved memory, as in this embodiment. Also, it may be applied to an enclosed type game machine that collects the shot game ball inside the game machine and shoots it again by the shooting device, and manages the number of balls held by the player as data using a storage medium such as an IC card. [Explanation of symbols]

[0315] 1: Pachinko machine, 2: Game board, 20: Skill area, 22: Ordinary electric device, 23: First special chart start port, 24: Second special chart start port, 25: First major prize port, 26: Second major prize port, 262: Specific area, 281: First special chart display device, 283: Second special chart display device, 40: Main control device, 42: Sub-integrated control device, 46: Performance pattern display device

Claims

[Claim 1] A gaming machine that, after a start condition is established, performs a variable display of identification information based on the establishment of the start condition, and can transition to a specific game state selected from a plurality of specific game states having different advantageous degrees based on a specific display result displayed by the variable display, A configuration in which a change performance is performed in response to the change display, A specific preview effect is provided which suggests that the specific display result may be displayed, When the specific advance notice performance is executed, there are a plurality of timings at which the specific advance notice performance is executed, and the timing at which the specific advance notice performance is executed in one variation performance is set based on the type of the selected specific game state. A gaming machine characterized by:

Images