Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of increasing the interest of a game.SOLUTION: A game machine of the present invention includes lottery means for executing a lottery, and performance control means for variably displaying performance symbols and then stopping and displaying the performance symbols in a manner corresponding to a lottery result. When a specific result is obtained, the performance control means can execute a specific performance in which the performance symbols are stopped and displayed in a first manner and then the performance symbols are stopped and displayed in a second manner corresponding to the specific result. Regarding the specific performance, it is possible to start outputting a specific sound from sound output means before the performance symbols stopped and displayed in the first manner become invisible, a player is notified that the performance symbols are stopped and displayed in the second manner by the output of the specific sound that starts before the performance symbols stopped and displayed in the first manner become invisible, and an appearance sound is louder than an appearance start sound and a result sound is louder than the appearance sound in a predetermined operation means performance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

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

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

[0003] In this type of gaming machine, the excitement of the game is enhanced by displaying presentation images on the display means and outputting sounds from the speaker (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-214544 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, there is a demand for gaming machines to improve the entertainment value of the game.

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

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A lottery means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery trigger occurs; A bonus granting means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for granting a player a predetermined bonus (e.g., a right to transition to a special game state, a right to transition to a special game state and a probability variable state) based on the fact that a specific result has been obtained in the predetermined lottery; An operation means (e.g., a performance operation means 26); A display means for displaying an image (e.g., a liquid crystal display 32); A sound output means (e.g., a speaker 14) for outputting sound; and a performance control means (e.g., a performance control means 300) for controlling the execution of various performances including a performance in which a plurality of types of performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner and then the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped manner in accordance with the result of the predetermined lottery. The performance control means includes: When the specific result is obtained, after the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a first mode, a specific performance can be executed in which the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a second mode corresponding to the specific result, With respect to the specific performance, it is possible to start outputting a specific sound from the sound output means before the performance pattern stopped and displayed in the first mode becomes invisible; The output of the specific sound, which starts before the performance symbol stopped and displayed in the first mode becomes invisible, notifies the player that the performance symbol will be stopped and displayed in the second mode; The performance control means further includes: an operation means image relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and an operation means performance is executed in which the operation of the operation means is encouraged; The sound output from the sound output means in a given operation means performance includes: An appearance start sound (for example, an operation means appearance start sound) that notifies the appearance of the operation means image; a sound (e.g., an operation means appearance sound) that notifies the user that the operation means image has appeared; a result sound (e.g., a winning result sound or a losing result sound) that is output in response to an operation of the operating means; the appearance sound is louder than the appearance start sound; The resulting sound is louder than the appearance sound. Amusement machine.

[0008] According to this configuration, in a situation where the performance symbols are stopped and displayed in the first mode and it seems that a specific result has not been obtained, the player can be informed by the output of the specific sound that the specific result has actually been obtained. Therefore, it is possible to incorporate elements that those who understand can understand, and to increase the interest of the game. In addition, among the sounds output in the operation means performance, the volume of the result sound is the largest, so that the timing when the player's operation is accepted can be properly notified. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a proper sense that the performance is progressing based on his / her own operation, improving the performance effect and increasing the interest of the game. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, interest in games can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an example of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the gaming machine. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 6] This is a diagram to explain the performance patterns. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the operation means presentation. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the operation means presentation. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a gaming machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a revival presentation. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a case in which the revival performance is not executed. [Figure 11] This is a diagram to explain the promotion effects. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a revival presentation. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a case in which the revival performance is not executed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] (First embodiment) The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front and rear" basically means that when a player is in front of a gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "rear", "up and down" means that the top side of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing with the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine according to this embodiment is used to play games using gaming balls (gaming media, gaming value) loaned from a gaming facility, and includes an outer frame 2 forming the outer surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 provided inside the gaming machine and forming a gaming area 4 in which the gaming balls move, an inner frame 7 holding the gaming board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the gaming board 6 visible but intouchable by the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that blocks the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0013] The portion of the front frame 10 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a number of front frame lamps 12 that output light effects to enhance the game. In addition, speakers 14 (sound devices) that output sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the upper part and the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0014] An upper tray 16 for storing game balls is provided in the center of the lower part of the front frame 10, and a payout outlet 18 for paying out game balls from the gaming machine to a player is provided in the left part of the inner side surface of the upper tray 16. A grip unit 20 is provided in the lower right part of the front frame 10, and when a player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launching device (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated to launch game balls into the gaming area 4. The launching device of this embodiment can launch 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second). The gaming machine according to this embodiment may be one in which a player can play a game without touching the game balls. For example, it may be a sealed circulation type gaming machine in which a certain number of game balls (game media) circulate inside the gaming machine. It may also be a gaming machine in which a gaming value as electronic information is used, and the gaming value is consumed or paid out by playing. That is, in this embodiment, the payout of the gaming value may be either an electronic payout (granting) of the gaming value or a physical payout.

[0015] A supply port 22 for supplying game balls from the upper tray 16 to the launching device is provided on the right side of the inner side of the upper tray 16. In addition, a lower tray 24 is provided below the upper tray 16 for storing surplus game balls when the upper tray 16 cannot store all the game balls.

[0016] In addition, a performance button (performance operation means) 26 is provided on the front side of the edge of the upper tray 16, and when the player operates the performance button 26, the performance performed in the gaming machine changes.

[0017] Fig. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, a circular outer rail 27 is provided on the game board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 27 is the game area 4 in which game balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 28 is provided on the left end of the game area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 27, and the outer rail 27 and the inner rail 28 guide game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) provided below the game board 6 to the game area 4.

[0018] At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a presentation unit 36 ​​including a liquid crystal display 32 (display means) that displays presentation images and the like to liven up the game, and a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. And, at the display frame 34, above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there are provided display frame lamps 38, 39 that output presentation lights and the like to liven up the game.

[0019] In this embodiment, the game ball cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, and the game ball launched from the launching device falls in the game area (left hitting area) 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 or the game area (right hitting area) 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. In addition, in the game area 4, a large number of game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, and the moving direction of the game ball moving in the game area 4 changes randomly.

[0020] An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass, and the game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 through which the game balls can fall downward from the stage 44, and the game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

[0021] Below the center of the stage 44, a first start opening 46 is provided, through which a game ball that has fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44 can enter. In addition, a first start opening switch 100 (see FIG. 4) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 46 is disposed in the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the first start opening switch 100. In addition, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to pay out prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the first start opening switch 100. In addition, the game ball that has entered the first start opening 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0022] A plurality of (three) general winning holes 47 (upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, and lower left general winning hole 47c) are provided to the left of the first starting hole 46 in the game area 4. A general winning hole switch 101 (see FIG. 4) is also provided on the game board 6 to detect a game ball that has entered the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c. When the general winning hole switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general winning hole 47a, middle left general winning hole 47b, or lower left general winning hole 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of the prize ball based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning hole switch 101. The general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or may be provided for multiple (e.g., three) general prize openings 47. In addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to the general prize openings 47 may be provided.

[0023] Further, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a passage gate 48 through which game balls pass without being collected inside the game machine is provided. Further, a gate switch 102 (see FIG. 4) that detects the passage of a game ball is disposed inside the passage gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (the game ball passing through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether or not a normal win has been won, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102.

[0024] In addition, in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start port 49 is provided below the passing gate 48. In addition, in the second start port 49, a second start port switch 103 (see FIG. 4) is arranged to detect a game ball that has entered the second start port 49. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. In addition, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to execute the payout of prize balls based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103. In addition, the game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0025] The second starting hole 49 is provided with a normal role 54 (assistance means) that can be operated between a reduced state (a state in which entry is not assisted, a non-assistance state) in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 and an expanded state (a state in which entry is assisted, an assistance state) in which it is easy for the game ball to enter. The normal role 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal winning is won in the normal symbol lottery.

[0026] A large prize opening 50 is provided in the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the large prize opening 50 to detect a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the large prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 causes the payout device 130 to perform a payout operation of the prize ball. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50. Based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the game balls that have entered the large prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0027] The big prize opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 that can be operated between a closed state (second state, no entry state) in which the game ball cannot enter the big prize opening 50 and an open state (first state, entry state) in which the game ball can enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a big jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery).

[0028] In addition, at the bottom of the game area 4, an outlet 62 is provided to collect game balls that have fallen through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 into the game machine. Here, inside the game machine, a discharge path (not shown) through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass is provided. In this game machine, all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the discharge path. That is, the game balls shot into the game area 4 enter any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 or pass through the outlet 62, and are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path. Specifically, the game balls that enter each of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 are detected by the switches 100, 101, 103, 104 arranged in the winning holes, and then guided to the discharge path. The game balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to a discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 4) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a game ball from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

[0029] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launching force of the game ball can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1. When the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4a on the left side of the LCD display 32, and when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls through the game area 4b on the right side of the LCD display 32.

[0030] Therefore, the player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 depending on the game situation, and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left-side game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42 and the stage 44 to enter the first starting hole 46 (left hit), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right-side game area 4b and passes through the passing gate 48 or enters the second starting hole 49 or enters the big winning hole 50 (right hit).

[0031] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when the gaming ball falls in the left gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second start opening 49 and the large winning opening 50. In addition, when the gaming ball falls in the right gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not win the first start opening 46, the upper left general winning opening 47a, the middle left general winning opening 47b, and the lower left general winning opening 47c.

[0032] At the lower right of the game board 6, outside the game area 4, there is provided a status display section 70 that indicates various states of the game machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0033] 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. As shown in FIG. 3, the status display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal reserve display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special reserve display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 80, a second special reserve display unit 82, and a game status display unit 84.

[0034] The normal pattern display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal pattern lottery is held, the two lamps are flashed to variably display the normal pattern, and the two lamps are turned on or off to statically display the normal pattern, thereby displaying the result of the normal pattern lottery.

[0035] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of the reserved random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery when the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is reserved because a normal pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for the normal pattern lottery is obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already in a changing or stopped display when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining the two lamps by turning on, turning off, or flashing.

[0036] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a game ball entering the first starting hole 46, the 7-segment display is caused to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is caused to light up in one of a plurality of manners to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.

[0037] The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved first special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if a random number value for special pattern lottery (lottery information) is obtained, so the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the first special random number value.The first special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by combining the two lamps to turn on, turn off, or flash.

[0038] The second special pattern display unit 80 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by the entry of a gaming ball into the second starting hole 49, the second special pattern is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display, and the second special pattern is displayed in a static manner by lighting the 7-segment display in one of a plurality of different modes, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.

[0039] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved second special random number value when, for example, the first special pattern or the second special pattern is already being displayed in a varying or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and therefore a special pattern lottery cannot be performed even if the random number value for special pattern lottery is obtained, and the random number value for special pattern lottery is reserved as the second special random number value.The second special reserve number, which is 0 to 4, is displayed by a combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0040] The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status currently set by a combination of turning on, off, or blinking the six lamps. In this embodiment, four types of game status can be set: a normal status (low probability status), a probability-change status (high probability status / special status) in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set higher than in the normal status, a special game status that starts when a jackpot is won in a special symbol lottery, and a time-saving status (special status) in which the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to change is shortened to frequently trigger the execution of the special symbol lottery. The six lamps are turned on, off, or blinked in a combination to display which game status is currently set.

[0041] 4 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means) and a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means). The functions of each board, such as the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or software consisting of a given program pre-stored in the ROM, etc.

[0042] The main control board 200 controls the progress of the game. The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the gate switch 102, the second start port switch 103, the count switch 104, or the out switch 106, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the status display unit 70, the normal role 54, the special role 56, or the payout device 130 based on the calculation results.

[0043] The sub-control board 202 controls the execution of effects based on information sent from the main control board 200. The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150 that detects the operation of the effect button 26, performs various calculations to execute effects according to the progress of the game, and controls the operation of the effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 32, lamps 12, 38, 39, speaker 14, and effect object driving devices based on the calculation results.

[0044] The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal pattern lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal gimmick control means 224, a special pattern lottery means 230, a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250, a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290.

[0045] The random number generating means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). Note that in this embodiment, the "random number value" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values ​​that may be generated regularly but may function substantially as random numbers because the timing of acquisition is irregular.

[0046] The normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, stores the normal symbol lottery random number value in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has occurred for the normal symbol lottery random number value value read from the normal random number storage means 2912. Specifically, the normal symbol lottery means 220 performs a normal win determination process as the normal symbol lottery.

[0047] The normal winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not a normal winning has occurred. In the normal winning determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects which normal symbol lottery table to refer to among the multiple types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 and performs the random number determination process according to the game state. Here, in each normal symbol lottery table, a normal winning or a losing is associated with each of 100 normal symbol lottery random number values ​​from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 refers to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determines whether or not one normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal winning, thereby determining whether or not a normal winning has occurred. When a normal win is won, the normal symbol selection means 220 sets a winning flag for the normal win to an ON state in the flag storage means 2916 of the main memory 290, and when a loss occurs, sets the winning flag for the normal win to an OFF state.

[0048] In addition, the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is in the probability variable state or the time-saving state is set to have a higher probability of winning a normal win than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is neither the probability variable state nor the time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is in the probability variable state or the time-saving state has a higher probability of winning a normal win than the normal symbol lottery performed when the game state is neither the probability variable state nor the time-saving state.

[0049] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0050] In the normal pattern display control process, the normal display control means 222 causes the normal pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and depending on whether a normal win has been won in the normal win determination process, causes the normal pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal pattern display unit 72, thereby causing the normal pattern display unit 72 to display the result of the normal pattern lottery.

[0051] Specifically, in this embodiment, if the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is neither a special chance state nor a time-saving state, the normal pattern fluctuation time is set to 20 seconds, and if the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is either a special chance state or a time-saving state, the normal pattern fluctuation time is set to 1 second, so that the opportunity to perform the normal pattern lottery occurs more frequently when the game state is either a special chance state or a time-saving state.

[0052] In the normal hold display control processing, the normal display control means 222 displays a normal hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74 according to the number of random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery stored in the normal random number memory means 2912.

[0053] The normal role control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal role 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the game state is neither a probability variable state nor a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to a reduced state until 0.1 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win. Also, when the game state is a probability variable state or a time-saving state, the normal role control means 224 controls the normal role 54 to operate so that the normal role 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to a reduced state until 20 seconds have elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a normal win.

[0054] Therefore, when a normal win occurs in the normal symbol lottery, if the game state is neither a sure-win state nor a time-limited state, the normal device 54 operates so as to hardly increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting hole 49, but if the game state is a sure-win state or a time-limited state, the normal device 54 operates so as to increase the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting hole 49.

[0055] The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start hole switch 100 that detects each game ball entering the first start hole 46, and stores it as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start hole switch 103 that detects each game ball entering the second start hole 49, and stores it as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won, using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914.

[0056] Specifically, the special random number memory means 2914 is provided with four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number values, and four second special reserve memory areas, second special reserve memory area 1 to second special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired second special random number values, and one special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 and used for the special pattern lottery until the changing and stopping display of the first special pattern or the second special pattern ends.

[0057] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the first start hole switch 100, if the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4, the acquired random number value for special symbol lottery is first stored as a first special random number value in the first special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is not stored in the special reservation memory area, the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, and the game state is not a special game state, the first special random number value is immediately read out from the first special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the first special random number value used for the special symbol lottery is stored in the special reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the first special pattern or the second special pattern is being displayed in a variable or stopped manner, i.e., when the first special random number value or the second special random number value is stored in the special reserve memory area, when the second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, or when the game state is a special game state, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0058] In addition, when a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the first start port switch 100 to obtain a random number value for selecting a special pattern, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 in which the first special random number value is not reserved and which has the smallest ordinal number, on the condition that the number of first special random number values ​​reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the first special reserve number is less than four.

[0059] In addition, when the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the second start switch 103, if the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the acquired random number value for special symbol lottery is first stored as a second special random number value in the second special reservation memory area 1. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reservation memory area 1, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value or the second special random number value is not stored in the special reservation memory area and the game state is not a special game state, the second special random number value is immediately read out from the second special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the second special random number value used for the special symbol lottery is stored in the special reservation memory area. On the other hand, when the first special pattern or the second special pattern is being displayed in a varying or stopped manner, i.e., when the first special random number value or the second special random number value is stored in the special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0060] In addition, when a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the second start port switch 103 to obtain a random number value for selecting a special pattern, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 4 in which the second special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of second special random number values ​​reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., on the condition that the second special reserve number is less than four.

[0061] Then, when the variable display and stationary display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol ends, the special symbol selection means 230 erases the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special reservation memory area. If the first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the special symbol selection means 230 reads out the first special random number value from the first special reservation memory area 1, performs a special symbol selection, and stores the first special random number value used for the special symbol selection in the special reservation memory area, on condition that the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4 and the game state is not a special game state. On the other hand, when the second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, even if the first special random number value is stored in any of the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random number value is read from the second special reservation memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery, and the second special random number value used for the special symbol lottery is stored in the special reservation memory area, provided that the game state is not a special game state. That is, in this embodiment, the second special random number value is consumed in preference to the first special random number value. Note that, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery. That is, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order in which the game ball enters the first start hole 46 or the second start hole 49 to perform a special symbol lottery.

[0062] In addition, if the first special random number value remains in the first special reserve memory area 2 or after when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, or if the second special random number value remains in the second special reserve memory area 2 or after when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the remaining first special random number value or second special random number value is moved from the original special reserve memory area to the special reserve memory area with the ordinal number one smaller. For example, if the first special random number value remains in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 3, and if the second special random number value remains in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the second special random number value stored in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 is moved to each of the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 2.

[0063] As described above, in the special random number memory means 2914, the first special random number value or the second special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has been conducted is reserved in the special reservation memory area with a maximum of one, the first special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has not been conducted is reserved in the first special reservation memory area 1 to the first special reservation memory area 4 with a maximum of four, and the second special random number value for which a special pattern lottery has not been conducted is reserved in the second special reservation memory area 1 to the second special reservation memory area 4 with a maximum of four.

[0064] The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random numbers such as a jackpot determination random number and a symbol determination random number as random numbers for special symbol lottery based on the detection signal input from the first start hole switch 100 or the second start hole switch 103, and stores these multiple types of random numbers as first special random number values ​​or second special random number values ​​in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a special symbol lottery to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won, using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914. Specifically, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, and the like as the special symbol lottery.

[0065] The jackpot determination process is a process for determining whether or not a jackpot has been hit by reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0066] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol selection means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot selection tables stored in the selection table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for random number determination process according to the game state. Here, in each jackpot selection table, 65536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65535 are associated with a jackpot or a miss. The special symbol selection means 230 then refers to the selected jackpot selection table and determines whether or not one of the jackpot determination random number values ​​read out is associated with a jackpot, thereby determining whether or not a jackpot has been won. In addition, the special symbol selection means 230 sets the jackpot winning flag to ON in the flag storage means 2916 when a jackpot has been won, and sets the jackpot winning flag to OFF when a miss occurs.

[0067] In addition, the jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in the high probability state is set to have a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot selection table selected when the game state is in the normal state or the time-saving state. In other words, the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in the high probability state has a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the jackpot determination process (special symbol selection) performed when the game state is in the normal state or the time-saving state.

[0068] The symbol determination process is a process performed when a jackpot is won in the jackpot determination process, and is a process that reads out one symbol determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the special random number storage means 2914, and determines whether the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) will be a 16-round probability variable symbol, a 4-round probability variable symbol, a 16-round normal symbol, or a 4-round normal symbol. Here, one symbol determination random number value is obtained from 100 symbol determination random numbers from 0 to 99 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start hole switch 100 or the second start hole switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0069] In the symbol determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for the random number determination process, depending on whether the one symbol determination random number value read out is stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value. Here, in each symbol lottery table, one of the 16-round probability variable symbol, the 4-round probability variable symbol, the 16-round normal symbol, and the 4-round normal symbol is associated with each of the 100 symbol determination random number values ​​from 0 to 99. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the selected symbol lottery table to determine which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the one symbol determination random number value read out is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning jackpot symbol to the ON state in the flag storage means 2916.

[0070] The special display control means 240 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the results of the special pattern lottery, and performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process.

[0071] The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read out from the special random number memory means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0072] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined corresponding to each of the four types of jackpot patterns and misses, and the special display control means 240 stops and displays the first special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0073] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read out from the special random number memory means 2914 and a special pattern lottery is performed, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a predetermined manner.

[0074] The special display control means 240 then stops and displays the second special pattern by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 80 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 80 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0075] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a first special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of the first special random number value stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0076] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays a second special hold number of 0 to 4 by combining turning on, off, or blinking two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82 depending on the number of second special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 5, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between a normal state, a special game state, a probability variable state, and a time-saving state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition. The game state transition condition may be one condition or multiple conditions. When multiple conditions are set, the game state can be transitioned to another game state based on the establishment of one of the multiple predetermined conditions or the establishment of all of the multiple predetermined conditions.

[0078] The normal state is the initial state among the multiple game states, and it is possible to switch to the special game state from the normal state. In the normal state, the normal symbol lottery is performed by referring to the normal symbol lottery table, where the probability of winning a normal jackpot is set to about 1 / 20, and the special symbol lottery is performed by referring to the jackpot lottery table, where the probability of winning a jackpot is set to 1 / 319.

[0079] In addition, under normal conditions, the probability of winning a normal prize in the normal symbol lottery is low at about 1 / 20, and the normal symbol variation time is set long, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is short at 0.1 seconds, making it difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49.

[0080] The special game state is initiated based on a jackpot being won in a special symbol lottery during the normal state, the special symbol lottery state, or the time-saving state, and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games have been played according to the type of jackpot symbol.

[0081] Specifically, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 16-round probability variation pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been played.

[0082] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 4-round probability variation pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been executed.

[0083] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 16-round normal pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 16 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 16th round have been executed.

[0084] In addition, when a special game state is started based on the fact that the winning flag of the 4-round normal pattern is set to the ON state in the special pattern lottery, the special game state ends on the condition that 4 rounds of special games from the 1st round to the 4th round have been executed.

[0085] The probability variable state is started when the special game state, which is started based on the winning flag of the 16-round probability variable pattern or the 4-round probability variable pattern (probability variable pattern) being set to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to transition from the probability variable state to the special game state or the normal state. In addition, in the probability variable state, the normal pattern is drawn by referring to the normal pattern drawing table, in which the winning probability of a normal win is set to about 19 / 20, and the special pattern is drawn by referring to the jackpot drawing table, in which the winning probability of a jackpot is set to 1 / 31, so that the probability variable state is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. The probability variable state ends when the number of times the special pattern has been drawn in the probability variable state reaches 9999, and the state transitions to the normal state.

[0086] Specifically, when the special game state ends, the game state transition control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 9999) corresponding to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 9999) into the probability change end judgment counter 2930 of the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update to subtract a value (e.g., 1) corresponding to one number of games from the stored value of the probability change end judgment counter 2930 every time a special symbol lottery is performed in the probability change state. Then, when the stored value of the probability change end judgment counter 2930 reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the probability change state ends and the normal state starts. However, since the probability of winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery is set to 1 / 31 in the probability change state, the special game state starts before the number of times the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability change state reaches 9999, and the probability change state rarely transitions to the normal state.

[0087] In addition, in the special state, the probability of winning a normal jackpot in the normal symbol lottery is high at about 19 / 20, the normal symbol variation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, so it is easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.

[0088] In addition, in the special probability state, the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter time regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so that the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.

[0089] The time-saving state is started when the special game state, which is started based on the setting of the winning flag of the 16-round normal pattern or the 4-round normal pattern to the ON state, ends, and it is possible to switch from the time-saving state to the special game state or the normal state. In the time-saving state, the normal pattern is selected by referring to the normal pattern selection table, which has a winning probability of about 19 / 20, just like in the probability-changing state, but the special pattern is selected by referring to the jackpot selection table, which has a winning probability of about 1 / 319, just like in the normal state, making it more disadvantageous to the player than the probability-changing state. The time-saving state ends when the number of times the special pattern has been selected in the time-saving state reaches 100, and the state is switched to the normal state.

[0090] Specifically, when the game state is shifted to the time-saving state, the game state shift control means 250 writes a value (e.g., 100) corresponding to a predetermined number of games (e.g., 100 times) to the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 in the main memory 290, and performs a decrement update by subtracting a value (e.g., 1) corresponding to one game number from the stored value of the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 every time a special symbol lottery is performed in the time-saving state. Then, when the stored value of the time-saving end judgment counter 2932 reaches a threshold value (e.g., 0), the time-saving state is terminated.

[0091] In addition, in the time-saving state, just like in the special state, the probability of winning a normal jackpot in the normal symbol lottery is high at about 19 / 20, and the normal symbol fluctuation time is short at 1 second, and the period during which the normal device 54 is in an expanded state is long at 20 seconds, so it is easier for the player to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state, which is advantageous for the player.

[0092] Also, in the time-saving state, similar to the special bonus state, the time for the first or second special symbol to change is often set to a shorter period regardless of the number of reserved symbols, so that the opportunity to draw the special symbols occurs more frequently than in the normal state.

[0093] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and executes special game execution processes 1 to 4 and the like.

[0094] The special game execution process 1 is executed based on the fact that the 16-round probability variable symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round probability variable symbol, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.

[0095] Specifically, in the special game execution process 1, in the special game of each of the 1st to 16th rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball and the value of the big winning number counter 2936, which is incremented by a value (for example, 1) equivalent to one game ball, reaches an upper limit value (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is driven and controlled so that the special feature 56 is closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is incremented to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0096] The special game execution process 2 is executed based on the fact that a 4-round probability variable symbol is won in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to the number of rounds, which is a predetermined number of times, for the 4-round probability variable symbol as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to the number of rounds for one time to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.

[0097] Specifically, in the special game execution process 2, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0098] The special game execution process 3 is executed based on the fact that the 16-round normal symbol is selected in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 16) equivalent to 16 times, which is a predetermined number of rounds for the 16-round normal symbol, as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one round number to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 16), the special game state ends.

[0099] Specifically, in the special game execution process 3, in the special game of each of the 1st to 16th rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0100] The special game execution process 4 is executed based on the fact that the 4-round normal symbol is selected in the special symbol lottery, and the special game execution means 260 sets a value (e.g., 4) equivalent to the number of rounds, which is a predetermined number of times, for the 4-round normal symbol as the upper limit value of the round counter 2933, and performs an incremental update by adding a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to the number of rounds for one time to the stored value of the round counter 2933 every time the special role object 56 completes its operation in a predetermined manner in each round. Then, when the stored value of the round counter 2933 reaches the upper limit value (e.g., 4), the special game state ends.

[0101] Specifically, in the special game execution process 4, in the special game of each of the first to fourth rounds, when the opening timer 2934 counts 29 seconds after the special feature 56 is opened or when the value of the big win counter 2936 reaches an upper limit (for example, 10), the special feature 56 is controlled to be closed. Then, it is determined that the end condition of one round is satisfied, and "1" is added to the value of the round counter 2933.

[0102] The payout control means 270 controls the payout device 130 to pay out a number of game balls corresponding to a number of prize balls that is predetermined for each detection signal, based on the detection signal from the first start port switch 100, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, or the detection signal from the count switch 104. The number of prize balls may be any number greater than or equal to one, and the number of prize balls paid out by each of the first start port switch 100, the general winning port switch 101, the second start port switch 103, or the count switch 104 may be different or may be set to the same number of prize balls.

[0103] The payout device 130 performs an operation of paying out the number of game balls instructed by the payout control means 270. In this payout device 130, a payout motor is provided in a game ball tank that stores game balls, and the payout control means 270 controls the rotation angle of the payout motor to pay out the instructed number of game balls from the game ball tank. In addition, the payout device 130 is provided with a payout switch that operates each time a game ball is paid out, and the payout control means 270 can manage the number of game balls actually paid out from the payout device 130 based on a payout signal from the payout switch.

[0104] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated according to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 202 to the main control board 200.

[0105] Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 includes a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302. The sub-memory 302 includes a plurality of types of RAM and ROM, and various data stored in the sub-memory 302 are stored in each RAM and ROM. The performance control means 300 controls the performance device, such as displaying a performance image on the liquid crystal display 32, turning on light-emitting parts such as the lamps 12, 38, and 39, outputting performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object driving device to operate the performance object, based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150, and performance data stored in the ROM of the sub-memory 302, to make the performance device execute a performance for livening up the game or supporting the game.

[0106] The liquid crystal display 32 executes the effect by displaying an effect image on its display surface. The effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is a composite image formed by overlapping multiple layers in which drawing materials (material images) are arranged.

[0107] The effect screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is made up of, for example, 30 frames per second (a so-called frame rate of 30 fps). Therefore, for example, in the case of an effect pattern having a length of one minute, the effect screen is made up of a total of 1800 frames, that is, 60 seconds x 30 frames. Note that, for example, one second may be made up of 60 frames.

[0108] As shown in Figure 6, the performance control means 300 executes a performance in which a performance pattern (demo pattern) 350 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stopping display of the special patterns in the first special pattern display unit 76 or the second special pattern display unit 80, and notifies the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0109] FIG. 6(a) shows the state before the special symbol starts to change. In the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, a left performance symbol 350a, a middle performance symbol 350b, and a right performance symbol 350c are displayed as performance symbols 350. The left performance symbol 350a is displayed on the left side of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, the middle performance symbol 350b is displayed on the center of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, and the right performance symbol 350c is displayed on the right side of the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32. The left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c each constitute a pattern arrangement including nine types of performance symbols representing the numbers "1" to "9". In other words, the pattern arrangement is an arrangement of nine types of performance symbols, and each of the nine types of performance symbols constituting one pattern arrangement has one of the numbers "1" to "9" written on it. Each of the performance patterns 350 representing the numbers "1" to "9" may be configured to include a decorative portion such as a character in addition to the number.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 6(b), the variable display (variable display performance) of the performance pattern 350 starts based on the start of the variable display of the special pattern. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the performance pattern 350 is being displayed (scrolling) at high speed in the vertical direction.

[0111] As shown in Fig. 6(c), the effect pattern 350 is displayed in a stopped state based on the stop display of the special pattern. The effect pattern 350 is displayed in a manner according to the result of the special pattern lottery. For example, if a jackpot is won in the special pattern lottery, the effect pattern 350 is displayed in a manner according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process.

[0112] In other words, each time a first special random number value is read out from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is performed, the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to execute a performance in which the left performance pattern 350a, the middle performance pattern 350b and the right performance pattern 350c (in other words, an arrangement of multiple patterns) are displayed in a variable manner in accordance with whether or not a jackpot has been won in the jackpot determination process in the special pattern lottery, and if a jackpot has been won, in a manner in accordance with the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process.

[0113] The performance control means 300 executes the operation means performance at a predetermined opportunity during the variable display of the performance pattern 350. An example of the operation means performance (a display example of the operation means performance when a winning result is displayed as described later) is shown in Fig. 7. Also, another example of the operation means performance (a display example of the operation means performance when a losing result is displayed as described later) is shown in Fig. 8.

[0114] In the operation means performance, the performance control means 300 displays an operation means image 400 on the liquid crystal display 32 as shown in Figs. 7 and 8. The operation means image 400 is an image that imitates the performance operation means 26. In other words, the operation means image 400 can also be said to be the performance operation means 26 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The operation means image 400 is an image that instructs (prompts) the player to operate the performance operation means 26. The display of the operation means image 400 ends when the performance operation means 26 is operated while it is displayed, or when a predetermined period has passed since the display started without the performance operation means 26 being operated. The predetermined period can also be said to be a period during which an operation on the performance operation means 26 is valid. Hereinafter, the predetermined period is also referred to as an operation valid period. In addition, the performance operation means 26 may be, for example, a button, a predetermined lever, or an imitation of a predetermined object (for example, a gun or a sword), etc. Also, there may be a plurality of performance operation means 26.

[0115] In this embodiment, a plurality of types of operation means images 400 are prepared. Specifically, a plurality of types of operation means images 400 with different colors, such as a default button (white operation means image 400), a red button (red operation means image 400), a gold button (gold operation means image 400), and a rainbow button (rainbow operation means image 400), are prepared, and a predetermined expectation level (for example, an expectation level for a win, or an expectation level for a winning result display, which will be described later, etc.) differs depending on the type (color) of the operation means image 400 to be displayed. Specifically, the predetermined expectation level increases in the order of default button < red button < gold button < rainbow button.

[0116] In addition, in the operation means performance, the performance control means 300 displays a meter 410 on the liquid crystal display 32. The meter 410 is a display that notifies the remaining time (progress) of the valid operation period.

[0117] In the operation means performance, before the operation means image 400 is displayed, a display of an appearance effect is started as an effect display related to the appearance of the operation means image 400 (see FIG. 7(b) and FIG. 8(b)). The appearance effect is a display that notifies the user that the operation means image 400 will appear. That is, in the operation means performance, a display in which the operation means image 400 appears is executed first. In addition, the display of the meter 410 starts in accordance with the completion of the appearance of the operation means image 400 (see FIG. 7(c) and FIG. 8(c)). In addition, when the appearance of the operation means image 400 is completed and the meter 410 is displayed, a display is executed in which the remaining time of the operation effective period indicated by the meter 410 decreases (see FIG. 7(d) and FIG. 8(d)). In addition, when the performance operation means 26 is operated within the operation effective period, a display (notification display) that gives a predetermined notification is executed (see FIG. 7(e), (f) and FIG. 8(e), (f)). Here, the notification displays that are executed when the presentation operation means 26 is operated within the effective operation period in the operation means presentation include a winning result display (see Figures 7(e) and (f)) that notifies that a predetermined result has been obtained (a first result has been obtained), and a losing result display (see Figures 8(e) and (f)) that notifies that the predetermined result has not been obtained (a second result has been obtained).

[0118] In addition, the winning result display may be, for example, an indication that a predetermined hit (e.g. a jackpot) has been achieved, or an indication that a predetermined effect (a effect with a predetermined high expectation level: for example, an effect in which the expectation level for a hit is greater than or equal to a predetermined level) has been achieved, or an indication that a continued change in the effect pattern 350 has been achieved, etc.

[0119] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7(e) and FIG. 8(e), whether a winning result is displayed or a losing result is displayed, an effect display (operation effect) indicating that the performance operation means 26 has been operated is displayed in response to an operation on the performance operation means 26 during the operation valid period. Then, with the display of the operation effect, the operation means image 400 disappears from the screen of the liquid crystal display 32. In this embodiment, the same operation effect can be displayed when a winning result is displayed and when a losing result is displayed. Specifically, the part where the operation means image 400 is displayed is strongly lit, and an operation effect that emphasizes the disappearance (operation) of the operation means image 400 is displayed is displayed. In addition, different operation effects may be displayed when a winning result is displayed and when a losing result is displayed. In other words, the operation effect may be at least a part of the winning result display or the losing result display.

[0120] In this embodiment, the type of the operation means image 400 (whether it is a default button, a red button, a gold button, or a rainbow button) is not displayed while the appearance effect is being displayed. Then, when the appearance of the operation means image 400 is completed, the type of the operation means image 400 becomes identifiable on the display. The state in which the type of the operation means image 400 is identifiable on the display in this manner may be referred to as the state in which the operation means image 400 is displayed or the state in which the operation means image 400 has appeared. In other words, the state in which the display related to the performance operation means 26 has reached a steady state may be referred to as the state in which the operation means image 400 is displayed or the state in which the operation means image 400 has appeared.

[0121] The performance control means 300 outputs a plurality of types of performance sounds to the speaker 14 in the operation means performance, including an operation means appearance start sound, an operation means appearance sound, a meter decrease sound (sound indicating the operation valid period has elapsed), a winning result sound or a losing result sound (failure / fake sound), etc.

[0122] The operation means appearance start sound is a sound effect that notifies the appearance of the operation means image 400. In other words, the operation means appearance start sound is a sound related to the appearance of the operation means image 400, and is a sound effect that is output while the display related to the appearance of the operation means image 400 is being displayed. In other words, the operation means appearance start sound is a sound effect that is output before the appearance of the operation means image 400 is completed. In this embodiment, the operation means appearance start sound is a sound effect that is output from the speaker 14 while the appearance effect is being displayed, and can also be said to be a sound effect related to the appearance effect.

[0123] In this embodiment, the operation means appearance start sound is a common (same) sound regardless of the type (color) of the operation means image 400 to be displayed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from knowing in advance which operation means image 400 will be displayed depending on the type of the operation means appearance start sound. However, the operation means appearance start sound may be different depending on the type of the operation means image 400 to be displayed. In addition, when multiple types of effect displays are prepared as appearance effects, different operation means appearance start sounds may be prepared for each appearance effect. In addition, as the appearance effect, multiple types of effect displays with different times from the start of display to the end of display (in other words, display on the liquid crystal display 32) may be prepared, such as an appearance effect in which the time from the start of the appearance effect to the display of the operation means image 400 is about 0.5 seconds, and an appearance effect in which the time is about 2 seconds.

[0124] The operation means appearance sound is a sound effect that notifies the appearance of the operation means image 400. That is, the operation means appearance sound is a sound effect that is output when the appearance of the operation means image 400 is completed (when the operation means image 400 is displayed).

[0125] In this embodiment, the operation means appearance sound varies depending on the type (color) of the displayed operation means image 400. When various operation means images 400 are displayed, the volume of the operation means appearance sound increases as follows: default button < red button < gold button < rainbow button. In other words, the higher the predetermined expectation level of the displayed operation means image 400, the louder the volume of the operation means appearance sound.

[0126] The meter decrease sound is a sound effect that is output in accordance with the decrease in the remaining time of the valid operation period indicated by the meter 410. In other words, the meter decrease sound is a sound effect that is output between the start and end of the valid operation period, and is a sound effect that notifies the user that the valid operation period is elapsed.

[0127] In this embodiment, multiple types of operation means effects with different operation valid periods (decrease speed of meter 410) are prepared, and the length of time for which the meter decrease sound is output varies depending on the length of the operation valid period.

[0128] The winning result sound is a sound output when the performance operation means 26 is operated within the operation valid period in the operation means performance to display the winning result, i.e., when a predetermined result is obtained. In other words, the winning result sound can be said to be a sound output that notifies that a predetermined result has been obtained (a first result has been obtained). The winning result sound can also be said to be a sound output related to a specific performance (display) that is executed based on (as a result of) an operation on the performance operation means 26. Note that the output of the winning result sound (and the winning result display) is executed in response to an operation on the performance operation means 26 within the operation valid period, but it may also be executed when the performance operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period.

[0129] In this embodiment, the winning result sound is a sound according to the type of winning result display (an image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in response to an operation on the operation means 26) regardless of the type of the displayed operation means image 400. When multiple types of displays are prepared as the winning result display, different winning result sounds may be output according to the type of winning result display.

[0130] The loss result sound is a sound effected when the performance operation means 26 is operated within the operation valid period in the operation means performance and a loss result display is performed, i.e., when a predetermined result is not obtained. In other words, the loss result sound can also be said to be a sound effected to notify that a predetermined result has not been obtained (a second result has been obtained). The loss result sound can also be said to be a sound effected related to a second specific performance (display) that is executed based on (as a result of) an operation on the performance operation means 26. Note that the output of the loss result sound (and the loss result display) is triggered by an operation on the performance operation means 26 within the operation valid period, but may also be executed when the performance operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period.

[0131] In this embodiment, the loss result sound is a common (identical) sound regardless of the type of the operation means image 400 that has been displayed. Also, only one type of loss result sound may be prepared. In other words, the types of loss result sounds may be fewer than the types of win result sounds. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable because no effect sound is output when a loss result display is made, and to minimize the impression of the effect of a loss result display.

[0132] That is, when the operation means performance is executed and it is notified that a predetermined result has been obtained (when the winning result display and the winning result sound are output), the operation means appearance start sound, the operation means appearance sound, the meter decrease sound, and the winning result sound are output. Also, the volume relationship of each performance sound at this time is as follows: meter decrease sound<operation means appearance start sound<operation means appearance sound<winning result sound. The volume relationship between the various sound effects may be as follows: meter decrease sound<operation means appearance start sound<winning result sound<operation means appearance sound.

[0133] In addition, when the operation means performance is executed and it is notified that the predetermined result was not obtained (when the loss result display and loss result sound are output), the operation means appearance start sound, operation means appearance sound, meter decrease sound, and loss result sound are output. In addition, the relationship in volume between the respective performance sounds at this time is as follows: meter decrease sound<operation means appearance start sound<operation means appearance sound<loss result sound. The volume relationship between the various sound effects may be as follows: meter decrease sound<operation means appearance start sound<losing result sound<operation means appearance sound. Also, the volume relationship may be as follows: meter decrease sound<losing result sound<operation means appearance start sound<operation means appearance sound.

[0134] The volume relationship between the winning result sound and the losing result sound is losing result sound < winning result sound.

[0135] It should be noted that any one or more of the various sound effects may not be outputted. For example, the meter decrease sound or the operation means appearance start sound may not be outputted.

[0136] The relationship between the volumes of the various sound effects can be said to be the relationship between the dB (decibel) values ​​of the volumes. More specifically, it can be said to be the relationship between the RMS values ​​of the output volumes or the maximum output amplitudes of the respective sound effects from the speaker 14. In other words, the relationship between the volumes of the respective sound effects is the relationship felt by the player when the player hears the respective sound effects output from the speaker 14.

[0137] In the operation means presentation, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the valid operation period, a presentation (output of display and presentation sound) similar to that in the case where the presentation operation means 26 is operated within the valid operation period may be performed. Hereinafter, such an operation means presentation is referred to as a first operation means presentation. Also, in the operation means presentation, if the presentation operation means 26 is not operated within the valid operation period, a presentation (output of display and presentation sound) different from that in the case where the presentation operation means 26 is operated within the valid operation period may be performed. Hereinafter, such an operation means presentation is referred to as a second operation means presentation. First operation means presentation and second operation means presentation in one gaming machine Both of the above may be executed, or only one of them may be executed.

[0138] In the first operation means performance, if the performance operation means 26 is not operated within the operation valid period, the performance is executed as if the performance operation means 26 had been operated when the operation valid period has elapsed. That is, in the first operation means performance, regardless of whether the performance operation means 26 has been operated within the operation valid period, the same win result display or loss result display is displayed and a win result sound or loss result sound is output.

[0139] In the second operation means performance, if the operation means 26 is operated within the operation effective period, a sound (operation sound) indicating that the operation means 26 has been operated is output from the speaker 14, and the first result image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. On the other hand, in the second operation means performance, if the operation means 26 is not operated within the operation effective period, a sound (disappearance sound) relating to the disappearance of the operation means image 400 is output from the speaker 14, and the second result image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 (the first result image is not displayed on the liquid crystal display 32). The display time (time from the start of display to the end of display) of the first result image is longer than the display time (time from the start of display to the end of display) of the second result image. The first result image and the second result image may be a moving image (movie) or a still image.

[0140] The operation sound that indicates that the effect operation means 26 has been operated can be considered as a type of loss result sound. That is, the relationship in volume between the operation sound and other effect sounds can be considered as in the case of the loss result sound. The volume of the disappearance sound may be the same as the volume of the meter decrease sound, for example. In other words, the disappearance sound may be smaller in volume than the operation means appearance start sound and the loss result sound.

[0141] There are multiple types of operation modes of the represented operation means 26 in the operation means performance. In other words, there are multiple types of operation modes of the represented operation means 26 instructed (prompted) by the operation means image 400. Specifically, for example, there is an operation means performance (operation means image 400) instructing to press the represented operation means 26 once, an operation means performance (operation means image 400) instructing to tap the represented operation means 26 repeatedly (press multiple times), and an operation means performance (operation means image 400) instructing to press and hold the represented operation means 26. Also, there are multiple types of durations for the operation effective period in the operation means performance. Also, in the operation means performance, the operation effective period differs depending on the instructed operation mode. Also, the operation means performance instructing to tap the represented operation means 26 repeatedly has the longest duration of the operation effective period. In other words, an operation means effect that instructs the user to tap the operation means 26 repeatedly has a longer effective operation period than an operation means effect that instructs the user to press the operation means 26 once or an operation means effect that instructs the user to press and hold the operation means 26. In addition, in an operation means presentation that instructs the player to repeatedly tap the operation means 26, an operation sound may be output each time the operation means 26 is operated, and a winning result sound or losing result sound may be output when the valid operation period has elapsed.

[0142] In this embodiment, the sound data of the operation means appearance start sound, the sound data of the operation means appearance sound, the sound data of the meter decrease sound, the sound data of the winning result sound, the sound data of the losing result sound, and the sound data of the disappearance sound are stored as separate data in the sound data storage means 310 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302. Then, the performance control means 300 reproduces each sound data to output various performance sounds to the speaker 14. Note that the sound data of a plurality of kinds of effect sounds may be collected into one sound data. However, in this embodiment, the sound data of the operation means appearance start sound, which is a common (same) sound regardless of the type (color) of the displayed operation means image 400, and the sound data of the operation means appearance sound, which is a different sound depending on the type (color) of the displayed operation means image 400, are stored as separate data, so that the operation means appearance start sound is always a common (same) sound.

[0143] Furthermore, when there are multiple types of patterns for various types of effect sounds, separate sound data for each pattern may be stored in the sound data storage means 310, or sound data commonly used for multiple patterns may be stored in the sound data storage means 310. For example, as described above, in this embodiment, multiple types of operation means effects with different operation effective periods (decrease speed of the meter 410) are prepared, and the length of time for which the meter decrease sound is output varies depending on the length of the operation effective period, but common sound data may be used regardless of the output time of the manufacturer decrease sound. In this case, for example, the meter decrease sound may be one whose pitch (pitch: interval) changes over time (for example, gradually gets higher). The sound data prepared may be one in which the pitch of the sound increases stepwise from the lowest note (e.g., C) to the highest note (e.g., C one octave higher), and in an operation means performance in which the effective operation period is relatively long, a meter decrement sound may be output so that the pitch changes from the lowest note to the highest note, and in an operation means performance in which the effective operation period is relatively short, a meter decrement sound may be output so that the pitch changes from the lowest note to a note between the lowest and highest notes (or from a note between the lowest and highest notes to the highest note).

[0144] The performance data (image data) for displaying the operation means image 400 (an image imitating the performance operation means 26) on the liquid crystal display 32 and the performance data for performing various effect displays may be different data or may be the same data. In addition, regarding the performance data for displaying the operation means image 400, various effect displays may be realized by changing parameters (e.g., transparency, etc.) over time when drawing the operation means image 400.

[0145] The gaming machine of this embodiment is An operation means (performance operation means 26); A display means (liquid crystal display 32) for displaying an image; A sound output means (speaker 14) for outputting sound; A performance control means 300 for controlling the execution of the performance; The presentation includes an operation means presentation in which an operation means image 400 relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and the operation of the operation means is encouraged. The sound output from the sound output means in a given operation means performance includes: an appearance start sound (operation means appearance start sound) which notifies the appearance of the operation means image; an appearance sound (operation means appearance sound) notifying the appearance of the operation means image; a result sound (a winning result sound or a losing result sound) that is output in response to an operation of the operating means, the appearance sound is louder than the appearance start sound; The resulting sound is louder than the appearance sound.

[0146] In this embodiment, the volume of the result sound (win result sound or loss result sound) is set to the loudest among the sounds output in the operation means performance, so that the timing when the player's operation is accepted can be clearly notified. Therefore, the player can be given a clear sense that the performance is progressing based on his / her own operation, and the performance effect can be improved.

[0147] In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The sound output from the sound output means in the operation means performance in which a predetermined result is notified includes: an appearance start sound (operation means appearance start sound) which notifies the appearance of the operation means image; an appearance sound (operation means appearance sound) notifying the appearance of the operation means image; a first result sound (a winning result sound) that is output in response to an operation of the operating means, The sound output from the sound output means in the operation means performance in which it is notified that a predetermined result has not been obtained includes: The appearance start sound; The appearance sound; a second result sound (a losing result sound) that is output in response to an operation of the operating means, the appearance sound is louder than the appearance start sound; the first resultant sound and the second resultant sound are louder than the appearance sound; The first resultant sound has a louder volume than the second resultant sound.

[0148] In this embodiment, the volume of the result sound (win result sound) is the loudest among the sounds output in the operation means presentation, so that the timing when the player's operation is accepted can be clearly notified. Therefore, the player can be given a clear sense that the presentation is progressing based on his / her own operation, and the presentation effect can be improved. In addition, the volume of the result sound output is louder when it is notified that a predetermined result has been obtained than when it is not notified, so that a proper distinction can be made between when the predetermined result has been obtained and when it has not been obtained.

[0149] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, so the description of the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0150] The performance control means 300 executes a performance in which, in conjunction with the execution of a special pattern lottery, the performance patterns 350 are variably displayed for a plurality of pattern arrangements including a plurality of types of performance patterns 350, and then the performance patterns 350 are stopped and displayed in a manner according to the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0151] Specifically, when a jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance symbol 350 in a jackpot state. In this embodiment, the jackpot state is a state in which the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c are the same type of performance symbol (see FIG. 9(f)). Also, when a loss occurs in the special symbol lottery, the performance symbol 350 is stopped and displayed in a loss state. In this embodiment, the loss state is a state in which at least one of the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c is a different type of performance symbol (see FIG. 10(f)).

[0152] The performance control means 300 may execute a reach performance during the display of the variation of the performance pattern 350. In the reach performance, as shown in FIG. 9(a), the performance control means 300 causes the liquid crystal display 32 to display a state in which the variation of the left performance pattern 350a and the right performance pattern 350c (two pattern arrangements) stops, and the center performance pattern 350 (one pattern arrangement) is changing, and the stopped left performance pattern 350a and the right performance pattern 350c become the same type of performance pattern (i.e., a reach state). Then, if a jackpot is won in the special pattern lottery, the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode after the reach performance. Also, if the special pattern lottery is a miss, the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a miss mode after the reach performance.

[0153] In addition, in this embodiment, the performance control means 300 may display the performance pattern 350 in a stopped state (confirmed stop) in a series of performances in which the performance pattern 350 is stopped in a state according to the result of the special pattern lottery after starting the variable display of the performance pattern 350 based on the execution of the special pattern lottery. In addition, the temporary stop here means a state in which the stop state (combination) of the performance pattern 350 in the game has not been confirmed. In addition, the confirmed stop means a state in which the stop state (combination) of the performance pattern 350 in the game has been confirmed. In other words, the performance control means may display the performance pattern 350 in a stopped state (confirmed stop) in a jackpot state after displaying the performance pattern 350 in a stopped state (temporarily stopped) in a loss state in one game. It should be noted that one game is defined as the period from when the varying display of the first special pattern in the first special pattern display section 76 (or the varying display of the second special pattern in the second special pattern display section 80) starts based on the execution of a special pattern lottery, to when the display stops.

[0154] For example, as shown in Fig. 9(a), the performance control means 300 may display on the liquid crystal display 32 a display in which the left performance pattern 350a and the right performance pattern 350c stop with the same type of performance pattern, and the center performance pattern 350b is changing, in a reach performance based on the execution of a special pattern lottery. Next, as shown in Fig. 9(b), the performance control means 300 may display on the liquid crystal display 32 a display in which the center performance pattern 350b stops with a different type of performance pattern from the left performance pattern 350a and the right performance pattern 350c. In other words, the performance control means 300 may display the performance pattern 350 stopped (temporarily stopped) in a losing mode.

[0155] Here, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a miss, the performance control means 300 fixes the stop mode of the performance symbol 350 in the currently stopped mode (i.e., the miss mode). In other words, the performance control means 300 fixes and stops the performance symbol 350 that was temporarily stopped in the miss mode.

[0156] On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the performance control means 300 changes the stop mode of the performance symbol 350 from the currently stopped mode (i.e., a miss mode) to a jackpot mode, as shown in Fig. 9(b) to (f). That is, the performance control means 300 can execute a revival performance in which the performance symbol 350 is stopped (temporarily stopped) in a miss mode, and then the performance symbol 350 is stopped (determined stopped) in a jackpot mode. In other words, the performance control means 300 can execute a revival performance in which a miss is suggested (in other words, an announcement) and then a win is suggested (in other words, an announcement).

[0157] That is, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, a revival effect suggesting a jackpot may be executed after a predetermined effect suggesting a miss is executed. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a miss, when the predetermined effect suggesting a miss is executed, an effect that definitely notifies the miss is executed, and the revival effect is not executed. For example, in the case where a reach effect is executed and the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a miss mode, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the revival effect is executed and the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a jackpot mode, whereas if the result of the special symbol lottery is a miss, the revival effect is not executed and the stop mode of the performance pattern 350 is determined to be a miss mode. Note that a miss can be said to be a disadvantageous result for the player, and a hit (jackpot) can be said to be a result that is advantageous to the player.

[0158] Here, the display and sound related to the revival performance will be explained.

[0159] First, regarding the revival performance, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance symbol 350 in a losing mode, as shown in FIG. 9(b).

[0160] Next, the performance control means 300 reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state, as shown in Fig. 9(c). Specifically, the performance control means 300 gradually reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state. In other words, the performance control means 300 fades out the display of the performance pattern 350.

[0161] Next, the performance control means 300 makes the performance pattern 350 displayed in a stopped state in a losing state invisible, as shown in FIG. 9(d). The performance control means 300 may transition from the state shown in FIG. 9(b) to the state shown in FIG. 9(d) without the state shown in FIG. 9(c). In other words, the performance control means 300 may make the performance pattern 350 displayed in a stopped state in a losing state invisible, without a state in which the visibility is reduced, from the state in which the performance pattern 350 is displayed in a stopped state in a losing state. In this embodiment, when the performance pattern 350 displayed in a stopped state in a losing state is made invisible, as shown in FIG. 9(d), the screen is once darkened to make it completely dark, but the performance pattern 350 may be made invisible by displaying another performance image (for example, the performance image shown in FIG. 9(e)) without such a darkened state. In addition, when making the performance pattern 350 that has been stopped and displayed in a losing mode invisible, the variation of the performance pattern 350 may be resumed to make the performance pattern 350 invisible.

[0162] Next, as shown in FIG. 9(e), the performance control means 300 displays a jackpot suggestive image suggesting a jackpot on the liquid crystal display 32 as an image related to the revival performance. In this embodiment, when the jackpot suggestive image is displayed, the jackpot is confirmed, and the jackpot suggestive image is an image that notifies the player of a jackpot. In other words, the jackpot suggestive image is an image that definitely notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in the form of a jackpot. Note that the jackpot suggestive image may be displayed even if the special pattern lottery is a miss. In other words, after the jackpot suggestive image is displayed, the performance pattern 350 may be stopped in the form of a miss.

[0163] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9(f), after displaying the big win suggestive image, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance symbols 350 in a big win mode (determined stop).

[0164] Furthermore, the performance control means 300 outputs a specific sound as a sound related to the revival performance to the speaker 14. The type of the specific sound is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a sound effect, background music, or a character's voice.

[0165] In the reach effect in the case where the result of the lottery for the special symbol is a miss, if the effect symbol 350 is stopped and displayed in a miss mode, the effect control means 300 does not output the specific sound.

[0166] On the other hand, in a reach effect in which the result of the special pattern lottery is a jackpot, if the effect pattern 350 is displayed stopped in a losing state, the effect control means 300 executes a revival effect that outputs a specific sound, and changes the state in which the effect pattern 350 is displayed stopped in a losing state to a state in which it is displayed stopped in a jackpot state.

[0167] That is, when the specific sound is output, a jackpot is confirmed, and the specific sound can be said to be a sound that notifies the player of a jackpot. In other words, the specific sound can be said to be a sound that definitely notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in a jackpot mode. The specific sound can also be said to be a sound that suggests (including a case where it definitely notifies) the execution of a revival performance. Note that the specific sound may be output even if the result of the special pattern lottery is a miss. That is, when the specific sound is output, the performance pattern 350 may stop in a miss mode.

[0168] Here, the output start timing of the specific sound will be described.

[0169] The performance control means 300 starts outputting a specific sound from the speaker 14 before the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a losing state becomes invisible. In this embodiment, the performance control means 300 starts outputting a specific sound in a state in which the visibility of the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a losing state is reduced, as shown in FIG. 9(c). Note that the performance control means 300 may start outputting a specific sound in a state in which the visibility of the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a losing state is not reduced, as shown in FIG. 9(b). In other words, the performance control means 300 starts outputting a specific sound from the speaker 14 in a state in which the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a losing state. Note that the performance control means 300 may start outputting a specific sound from the time when the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a losing state becomes invisible until the performance pattern 350 becomes visible again.

[0170] That is, in this embodiment, the output of the specific sound that starts before the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state becomes invisible notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a winning state. In other words, after the output of the specific sound starts, the performance pattern 350 in the winning state appears on the screen, and then stops. In this embodiment, the specific sound itself is a sound that definitely notifies the player of a winning state, and the specific sound is outputted to definitely notify the player that the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a winning state, regardless of the scene. However, the specific sound may be outputted in a specific scene, such as when the output of the specific sound starts before the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state becomes invisible, to definitely notify the player that the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a winning state (in other words, when the specific sound is outputted in a scene other than the specific scene, it is not decided that the performance pattern 350 is stopped and displayed in a winning state).

[0171] There is no particular limitation on the timing at which the output of the specific sound ends, but the output of the specific sound may end before the performance pattern 350 that is displayed in a stopped state in a losing mode becomes invisible, or the output of the specific sound may end after it becomes invisible (for example, after it reaches any of the states shown in Figures 9(d) to (f)).

[0172] In this embodiment, when the revival performance is executed, the same performance display as when the revival performance is not executed and the performance pattern 350 is fixed and stopped in a miss mode is executed until a predetermined period has elapsed from the start of output of the specific sound when the revival performance is executed. In other words, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, when the revival performance is executed and when it is not executed (in other words, when the combination of the temporarily stopped performance patterns 350 changes and when it does not change), the display from the temporary stop of the performance pattern 350 until the predetermined period has elapsed is the same.

[0173] Specifically, when the revival effect is not executed (when the result of the special pattern lottery is a miss), the effect control means 300 displays the effect pattern 350 in a missing state (temporarily stopped), as shown in Figure 10(b) (similar to the case of Figure 9(b)).

[0174] Next, as shown in Fig. 10(c) (similar to Fig. 9(c)), the performance control means 300 reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state. Specifically, the performance control means 300 gradually reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state. In other words, the performance control means 300 fades out the display of the performance pattern 350.

[0175] Next, the performance control means 300 makes the performance pattern 350 that has been stopped and displayed in a losing mode invisible, as shown in FIG. 10(d) (similar to the case of FIG. 9(d)).

[0176] Next, the performance control means 300 performs a predetermined performance as shown in Figs. 10(e) and 10(f), and stops the performance symbol 350 in a losing state.

[0177] In addition, the screen display may be different or the same (the size or type of the image of the performance pattern 350 may be different) between the state where the performance pattern 350 is temporarily stopped in a losing mode (the state shown in FIG. 10(b)) and the state where the performance pattern 350 is definitely stopped in a losing mode (the state shown in FIG. 10(f)), as shown in FIG. 10. In other words, for example, the combination of the performance pattern 350 may be confirmed with the display shown in FIG. 10(b) without going through the displays shown in FIG. 10(c) to FIG. 10(f).

[0178] That is, in this embodiment, the display of the liquid crystal display 32 is the same when the revival performance is performed and when it is not performed until the reach performance is performed and the temporarily stopped performance pattern 350 becomes invisible. In this way, the output of the specific sound is started in a state where there is no difference in the display of the liquid crystal display 31. In other words, when the performance pattern 350 changes from a state where it is stopped and displayed in a losing mode to a state where it is stopped and displayed in a winning mode, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 at the timing when the output of the specific sound starts is an image that is displayed even when the performance pattern 350 does not change from a state where it is stopped and displayed in a losing mode to a state where it is stopped and displayed in a winning mode (see FIG. 9(c) and FIG. 10(c)). In other words, at the timing when the specific sound is output, it is difficult to distinguish (including a case where it is impossible to distinguish) from the display of the liquid crystal display 32 whether the performance pattern 350 changes from a state where it is stopped and displayed in a losing mode to a state where it is stopped and displayed in a winning mode.

[0179] The revival performance is automatically executed without the player's operation. Specifically, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the reach performance is executed and the performance symbol 350 is displayed as stopped (temporarily stopped) in a losing state, and then the performance symbol 350 is displayed as stopped (determined stop) in a winning state without the need for operation of the performance operation means 26 (without being prompted to operate the performance operation means 26). However, after the performance symbol 350 is displayed as stopped (temporarily stopped) in a losing state, the performance symbol 350 may be displayed as stopped (determined stop) in a winning state via operation of the performance operation means 26 (with the prompt to operate the performance operation means 26). In other words, the revival performance may be a type of the operation means performance of the first embodiment. That is, after the performance symbol 350 is displayed (temporarily stopped) in a losing state, the operation means performance is executed, and if the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the winning result display is executed and the performance symbol 350 is displayed in a big win state, whereas if the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss, the losing result display is executed and the performance symbol 350 is displayed in a losing state. Also, the revival performance may be such that the operation means performance is executed, the performance symbol 350 is displayed in a losing state as a losing result display, and then the performance symbol 350 is displayed in a big win state.

[0180] (Modification) For the gaming machine of the second embodiment, the miss mode may be replaced with a low-advantage hit mode, and the big win mode may be replaced with a high-advantage hit mode. Specifically, for example, the miss mode may be replaced with a normal symbol hit mode (a big win without a transition to a high-probability hit state), and the big win mode may be replaced with a high-probability hit mode (a big win with a transition to a high-probability hit state). That is, the present invention can be applied by replacing the "miss mode" with the "low-advantage hit mode," the "hit mode" with the "high-advantage hit mode," and the "revival performance" with the "promotion performance" in the above configuration, which will be described in detail below.

[0181] A jackpot with a probability variable pattern is a jackpot that transitions to a probability variable state after the end of a special game state, and a jackpot with a normal pattern is a jackpot that transitions to a time-saving state after the end of a special game state, and a jackpot with a probability variable pattern is more advantageous for a player than a jackpot with a normal pattern.

[0182] Also, in general, in gaming machines, odd-numbered performance symbols 350 correspond to high-advantage hits, and even-numbered performance symbols 350 correspond to low-advantage hits. That is, for a player, it is more pleasing to have odd-numbered performance symbols 350 line up than even-numbered performance symbols 350 line up. In this modified example, when a special pattern lottery wins a jackpot with a certain probability pattern, the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c are stopped and displayed in a manner that makes them odd-numbered performance symbols of the same kind. Also, when a special pattern lottery wins a jackpot with a normal pattern, the left performance symbol 350a, the middle performance symbol 350b, and the right performance symbol 350c are stopped and displayed in a manner that makes them even-numbered performance symbols of the same kind.

[0183] In this modified example, the performance control means 300 may display the performance pattern 350 in a state corresponding to the result of the special pattern lottery after starting the variable display of the performance pattern 350 based on the execution of the special pattern lottery, and then may display the performance pattern 350 in a state corresponding to the result of the special pattern lottery. In other words, the performance control means may display the performance pattern 350 in a state corresponding to the high advantage win (fixed stop) after displaying the performance pattern 350 in a state corresponding to the low advantage win (temporary stop) in one game.

[0184] For example, in a variable display presentation based on the execution of a special symbol lottery, the presentation control means 300 can cause the presentation pattern 350 to be displayed stopped (temporarily stopped) in a winning mode with a low degree of advantage.

[0185] Here, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a low-advantage winning, the performance control means 300 determines the stopping mode of the performance symbol 350 in the currently stopped mode (i.e., the low-advantage winning mode). In other words, the performance control means 300 determines and stops the performance symbol 350 that was temporarily stopped in the low-advantage winning mode.

[0186] On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the stop mode of the performance symbol 350 is changed from the currently stopped mode (i.e., a low-advantage winning mode) to a high-advantage winning mode. That is, the performance control means 300 can execute an upgrade performance in which the performance symbol 350 is stopped (confirmed stop) in a high-advantage winning mode after the performance symbol 350 is stopped (provisionally stopped) in a low-advantage winning mode.

[0187] Regarding the promotion effect, the effect control means 300 stops and displays the effect symbol 350 in a winning form with a low degree of advantage, as shown in FIG. 11(a).

[0188] Next, the performance control means 300 performs a predetermined performance as shown in Figs. 11(b) and (c), and displays the performance symbol 350 in a stopped state (determined stop) in a highly advantageous winning state.

[0189] In addition, the performance control means 300 outputs a specific sound as a sound related to the promotion performance to the speaker 14. The type of the specific sound is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a sound effect, background music, or a character's voice.

[0190] When the result of the special symbol lottery is a win with a low degree of advantage, if the performance symbol 350 is stopped and displayed in a form of a win with a low degree of advantage, the performance control means 300 does not output a specific sound.

[0191] On the other hand, when the result of the special pattern lottery is a win with a high degree of advantage, if the performance pattern 350 is displayed stopped in a manner indicating a win with a low degree of advantage, the performance control means 300 executes a promotion performance that outputs a specific sound, and changes the state in which the performance pattern 350 is displayed stopped in a manner indicating a win with a low degree of advantage to a state in which the performance pattern is displayed stopped in a manner indicating a win with a high degree of advantage.

[0192] That is, when the specific sound is output, the promotion is confirmed, and the specific sound can be said to be a sound that notifies the player of the promotion. In other words, the specific sound can be said to be a sound that definitely notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in a highly advantageous winning mode. The specific sound can also be said to be a sound that suggests (including a case where it definitely notifies) the execution of the promotion performance. Note that the specific sound may be output even when the result of the special pattern lottery is a low-advantage winning. That is, when the specific sound is output, the performance pattern 350 may stop in a low-advantage winning mode. Note that, here, a change from a state suggesting a low-advantage winning to a state suggesting a high-advantage winning is referred to as promotion, but a change from a state suggesting a loss to a state suggesting a predetermined winning may also be included in promotion.

[0193] Here, the output start timing of the specific sound will be described.

[0194] The performance control means 300 starts outputting a specific sound from the sound output means 14 before the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a low-advantage winning mode becomes invisible (for example, in the state shown in FIG. 11(a)). Note that the performance control means 300 may start outputting a specific sound in a state where the visibility of the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a low-advantage winning mode is reduced, or may start outputting a specific sound in a state where the visibility is not reduced.

[0195] That is, in this embodiment, the output of the specific sound that starts before the performance pattern 350 displayed in a low-advantage winning mode becomes invisible notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in a high-advantage winning mode. In other words, the performance pattern 350 in a high-advantage winning mode appears on the screen after the output of the specific sound starts, and then stops. The specific sound may be output in a scene other than the scene where the performance pattern 350 changes from a state where it is displayed in a low-advantage winning mode to a state where it is displayed in a high-advantage winning mode, and the player is definitively notified that the promotion will be performed by outputting the specific sound in a specific scene, such as when the output of the specific sound starts before the performance pattern 350 displayed in a low-advantage winning mode becomes invisible (in other words, when the specific sound is output in a scene other than the specific scene, it is not definitive that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in a high-advantage winning mode).

[0196] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A lottery means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery trigger occurs; A bonus granting means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for granting a player a predetermined bonus (e.g., a right to transition to a special game state, a right to transition to a special game state and a probability variable state) based on the fact that a specific result has been obtained in the predetermined lottery; and a performance control means (e.g., a performance control means 300) for executing a performance in which a plurality of types of performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner and then the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped manner in accordance with the result of the predetermined lottery. The performance control means includes: When the specific result is obtained, after the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a first mode, a specific performance can be executed in which the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a second mode corresponding to the specific result, With respect to the specific performance, it is possible to start outputting a specific sound from a sound output means (e.g., speaker 14) before the performance pattern stopped and displayed in the first mode becomes invisible; The output of the specific sound, which begins before the performance pattern displayed in a stopped state in the first mode becomes invisible, notifies the player that the performance pattern will be displayed in a stopped state in the second mode.

[0197] According to this configuration, when the performance symbols are displayed in the first mode and it seems that a specific result has not been obtained, the player can be informed by the output of a specific sound that the specific result has actually been obtained. Therefore, it is possible to incorporate elements that are recognizable to those who understand, and to increase the interest of the game.

[0198] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment or the gaming machine of the second embodiment, so the description of the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment or the gaming machine of the second embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0199] The performance control means 300 can execute a reach performance during the variable display of the performance pattern 350. If the special pattern lottery results in a big win, the performance pattern 350 is displayed as if it were a big win after the reach performance. If the special pattern lottery results in a miss, the performance pattern 350 is displayed as if it was a miss after the reach performance.

[0200] In addition, the performance control means 300 may execute a revival performance in which the performance pattern 350 is stopped (temporarily stopped) in a manner indicating a loss, and then the performance pattern 350 is stopped (determined stopped) in a manner indicating a big win. In other words, the performance control means 300 may execute a revival performance in which a win is suggested (in other words, an announcement) after a loss is suggested (in other words, an announcement).

[0201] That is, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, a revival effect suggesting a jackpot may be executed after a predetermined effect suggesting a miss is executed. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery is a miss, when the predetermined effect suggesting a miss is executed, an effect that definitely notifies the miss is executed, and the revival effect is not executed.

[0202] Here, the display related to the revival performance of this embodiment will be described.

[0203] First, regarding the revival performance, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance symbol 350 in a losing mode, as shown in FIG. 12(a).

[0204] Next, the performance control means 300 reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state, as shown in Fig. 12(b). Specifically, the performance control means 300 gradually reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state. In other words, the performance control means 300 fades out the display of the performance pattern 350.

[0205] Next, the performance control means 300 makes the performance pattern 350 that has been stopped and displayed in a losing mode invisible, as shown in FIG. 12(c).

[0206] Next, as shown in Fig. 12(d), the performance control means 300 makes the logo image appear from the right side of the screen, move it from right to left, and stop it at the center. In other words, the performance control means 300 moves a predetermined image in a first direction on the screen. The logo image may be an image including predetermined characters representing the model name, manufacturer name, etc. The logo image is an image that may be displayed at the end of one game, and can be said to be an image suggesting the end, conclusion, or conclusion of one game. The logo image is an image that is displayed in front of the performance pattern (in other words, placed in a higher layer), and can be said to be an image that is displayed so as to cover up the performance pattern.

[0207] Next, the performance control means 300 moves the logo image toward the front side of the screen, as shown in Fig. 12(e) In other words, the performance control means 300 moves the predetermined image in the second direction.

[0208] Next, after displaying the big win suggestion image, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance pattern 350 in a big win mode (determined stop) as shown in FIG. 12(f).

[0209] Next, the display when the revival performance is not executed will be described.

[0210] When the revival effect is not executed (when the result of the special symbol lottery is a miss), the effect control means 300 stops and displays the effect symbol 350 in a miss mode, as shown in FIG. 13(a).

[0211] Next, the performance control means 300 reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state, as shown in Fig. 13(b). Specifically, the performance control means 300 gradually reduces the visibility of the performance pattern 350 that is stopped and displayed in a losing state. In other words, the performance control means 300 fades out the display of the performance pattern 350.

[0212] Next, the performance control means 300 makes the performance pattern 350 that has been stopped and displayed in a losing mode invisible, as shown in FIG. 13(c).

[0213] Next, as shown in Fig. 13(d), the performance control means 300 makes the logo image appear from the right side of the screen, move it from right to left, and stop it at the center. In other words, the performance control means 300 moves the predetermined image in a first direction on the screen.

[0214] Next, the performance control means 300 moves the logo image toward the left side of the screen as shown in Fig. 13(e). In other words, the performance control means 300 moves the predetermined image in a first direction different from the second direction. Note that at this time, the performance control means 300 may move the predetermined image in a third direction different from the first direction.

[0215] Next, the performance control means 300 stops and displays the performance symbol 350 in a losing state (confirmed stop) as shown in FIG. 13(f).

[0216] In this embodiment, after the performance pattern 350 displayed in a stop state in a losing state disappears, the logo image appears, and when the logo image is displayed moving toward the front of the screen, the performance pattern 350 is displayed in a stop state in a winning state (determined stop). In other words, after the logo image is displayed moving toward the front of the screen, the performance pattern 350 in a winning state appears on the screen, and then is definitively stopped. Also, when the logo image is displayed moving toward the front, a winning state is confirmed, and the display can be said to be a display that notifies the player of a winning state. In other words, the display can be said to be a display that definitively notifies the player that the performance pattern 350 will be displayed in a winning state. Note that the display may be made even if the result of the special pattern lottery is a losing state. In other words, when the display is made, the performance pattern 350 may be definitively stopped in a losing state. In this case, the logo image appears after the performance pattern 350, which has been stopped and displayed in a missing state, becomes invisible; however, the logo image may also appear before the performance pattern 350, which has been stopped and displayed in a missing state, becomes invisible (specifically, when the visibility of the performance pattern 350 has been reduced (see Figure 12(b)), or when its visibility has not been reduced (see Figure 12(a))).

[0217] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A lottery means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery trigger occurs; A bonus granting means (e.g., a special symbol lottery means 230) for granting a player a predetermined bonus (e.g., a right to transition to a special game state, a right to transition to a special game state and a probability variable state) based on the fact that a specific result has been obtained in the predetermined lottery; A display means for displaying an image (e.g., a liquid crystal display 32); and a performance control means (e.g., a performance control means 300) for executing a performance in which a plurality of types of performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner on the display means and then the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped manner in a manner corresponding to the result of the predetermined lottery. The performance control means includes: When the specific result is obtained, a first effect is executed in which a specific image (e.g., a logo image) appears on the display means after the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a first manner, and the specific image is moved in a specific direction, and then the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a second manner corresponding to the specific result. If the specific result is not obtained, a second effect can be executed in which the specific image is made to appear on the display means after the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in the first manner, and the specific image is moved in a direction different from the specific direction.

[0218] According to this configuration, when the performance symbol is displayed in the first mode and it seems that a specific result has not been obtained, the direction of movement of the specific image can suggest that the specific result has actually been obtained. Therefore, it is possible to incorporate elements that are understandable to those who understand, and to increase the interest of the game.

[0219] In this embodiment, the display on the liquid crystal display 31 is the same until the temporarily stopped performance pattern 350 becomes invisible and the logo image as the predetermined image is displayed at a predetermined display position (for example, the center of the screen) whether the revival performance is performed or not. In other words, in the situation where the logo image appears and is displayed at the predetermined display position, it is difficult (including cases where it is impossible) to determine from the display on the liquid crystal display 32 whether the performance pattern 350 changes from a state where it is stopped and displayed in a losing mode to a state where it is stopped and displayed in a winning mode. In this embodiment, too, the performance control means 300 may start outputting a specific sound from the sound output means 14 before the performance pattern 350 stopped and displayed in a losing mode becomes invisible. In addition, the performance control means 300 may start outputting a specific sound from the sound output means 14 before the logo image as the predetermined image starts moving in the second direction when the performance pattern 350 changes from a state where it is stopped and displayed in a losing mode to a state where it is stopped and displayed in a winning mode.

[0220] (Application to slot machines) In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine, but the present invention may be applied to a slot machine in which the bet amount is set using medals or electronic information as the game value, the reels are rotated by operating the start lever to start the game, the rotating reels are stopped by operating the stop button, and a prize can be awarded depending on the type of symbols or combination of symbols when the reels stop. For example, the above-mentioned revival effect and promotion effect (effects related to the variable display and stop display of the performance symbols) can also be interpreted as effects related to the variable display and stop display of the reels displayed on the liquid crystal display of the slot machine.

[0221] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the game control form and configuration of the pachinko game machine and slot machine are not limited to those of the above-described embodiment.

[0222] It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, the components may be freely combined, or the components may be arbitrarily modified, or the components may be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0223] 14 Speaker (sound output means) 26 Performance operation means 34 Liquid crystal display (display means) 230 Special design lottery method 300 Production control means

Claims

[Claim 1] A lottery means for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery trigger occurs; A bonus awarding means for awarding a predetermined bonus to a player based on a specific result being obtained in the predetermined lottery; An operating means; A display means for displaying an image; A sound output means for outputting a sound; and a performance control means for controlling the execution of various performances including a performance in which a plurality of types of performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner and then the performance symbols are displayed in a stopped manner in accordance with the result of the predetermined lottery. The performance control means includes: When the specific result is obtained, after the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a first mode, a specific performance can be executed in which the performance pattern is stopped and displayed in a second mode corresponding to the specific result, With respect to the specific performance, it is possible to start outputting a specific sound from the sound output means before the performance pattern stopped and displayed in the first mode becomes invisible; The output of the specific sound, which starts before the performance symbol stopped and displayed in the first mode becomes invisible, notifies the player that the performance symbol will be stopped and displayed in the second mode; The performance control means further includes: an operation means image relating to the operation means is displayed on the display means, and an operation means performance is executed in which the operation of the operation means is encouraged; The sound output from the sound output means in a given operation means performance includes: an appearance start sound that notifies the appearance of the operation means image; a sound notifying the appearance of the operation means image; and a resultant sound that is output in response to an operation of the operating means, the appearance sound is louder than the appearance start sound; The resulting sound is louder than the appearance sound. Amusement machine.

Images