Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine with new game properties by new notification.SOLUTION: A slot machine 1 can execute: first processing for terminating an advantageous section during the progress of a game when a first predetermined condition using the difference in game value in the advantageous section is satisfied; second processing for determining whether or not to terminate the advantageous section during the progress of the game on the basis of a second predetermined condition not using the difference in game value in the advantageous section; first notification processing for notifying a player of a first performance capable of suggesting that the advantageous section may be terminated by executing second processing; and second notification processing for notifying a player of a second performance related to the determination result in the second processing upon determination in the second processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field] 【0001】 The present disclosure relates to gaming machines. [Background technology] 【0002】 The gaming machine is configured to be able to switch between a game (game) in a general game state and a game in a special game state (AT, ART, etc.) that is more advantageous to the player than the general game state. Patent Document 1 describes that during the progress of a game in an advantageous zone where the processing related to the instruction function can be executed, it is determined whether or not to end the advantageous zone based on the number of games remaining in the advantageous zone. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents] 【0003】 [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-014182 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention] 【0004】 The present disclosure provides a gaming machine having new gameplay through new notifications. [Means for solving the problem] 【0005】 The first aspect includes a process of progressing a game in one of game zones including an advantageous zone in which processing related to the instruction function can be performed and a normal zone in which processing related to the instruction function cannot be performed, a first process of terminating the advantageous zone during game progress when a first predetermined condition using a parameter related to the advantageous zone duration that changes with game progress in the advantageous zone is satisfied, and a second process of determining whether or not to terminate the advantageous zone during game progress based on a second predetermined condition that does not use a parameter related to the advantageous zone duration. a first notification process for notifying a first effect that can suggest that the advantageous zone may end by a decision made in the second process; a process for transitioning the game zone from the advantageous zone to the normal zone when a decision is made in the second process to end the advantageous zone while the game is in progress; a process for continuing game play in the advantageous zone while the game is in progress when a decision is made in the second process not to end the advantageous zone while the game is in progress; and a second notification process for notifying a second effect related to the result of the decision made in the second process when a decision is made in the second process. Effect of the Invention 【0006】 According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a gaming machine having new gameplay through new notifications. [Brief description of the drawings] 【0007】 [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a slot machine and a card unit. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an arrangement of symbols on a spinning reel. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating state transitions in a first game state. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating state transitions in the second game state. [Figure 6] A diagram explaining the state transition of a game area. [Figure 7] A diagram explaining the connection / communication relationship between the main control board, the game value control board, and the sub-control board. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a game flow of the slot machine of the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a presentation on a special stage. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram showing a time series of changes in game zones and game states during game progress on a first route and a second route. FIG. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing advantageous zone processing of slot machine 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 【0008】 [Embodiment] A slot machine 1 according to an embodiment of a gaming machine of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "connection" includes a case where connection targets are directly connected to each other and a case where connection targets are indirectly connected to each other via another board, device, etc. 【0009】 In this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is a reel type gaming machine that handles the quantity of game value (number of medals) as electronic data without using physically existing medals. Unlike conventional slot machines, the slot machine 1 does not require inserting and paying out actual medals, and allows the game to proceed using pseudo game media converted into electronic data as game value data. Such a slot machine 1 is called a medal-less machine, SmaSlo (registered trademark), or a sealed reel gaming machine. 【0010】 The pseudo game medium, i.e., the game value, increases or decreases as the game progresses. Therefore, the player can play the game without having to hold real medals, and can check the amount of game value he or she has while playing by looking at the credit display on the slot machine 1. 【0011】 Fig. 1 is a front view of the above-mentioned slot machine 1. As shown in Fig. 2, this slot machine 1 is communicably connected to a card unit 9. In the following, the card unit 9 will first be described. 【0012】 The card unit 9 (corresponding to an external device) is a device capable of executing processes relating to lending of gaming value to the slot machine 1 and returning of gaming value from the slot machine 1. 【0013】 Although not shown, the outer surface of the card unit 9 is provided with an opening for inserting cash, an opening for inserting / ejecting a card, a display panel capable of displaying instructions for inputting a PIN number and a loan balance, a game value loan button, and a card ejection button. Inside the card unit 9, in addition to an I / F for communication with the slot machine 1, a cash management mechanism 91, a card management mechanism 92, and a card unit side control unit 93 are provided as shown in FIG. 2. 【0014】 The cash management mechanism 91 introduces and detects bills inserted through the cash insertion opening into the card unit 9, and accumulates them. 【0015】 The card management mechanism 92 introduces and stores a card inserted through a card insertion / ejection opening, and ejects the card from the insertion / ejection opening when a card ejection button is operated. 【0016】 The card unit side control unit 93 is composed of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The card unit side control unit 93 controls the operation of the cash management mechanism 91 and the card management mechanism 92, lends gaming value, authenticates cards, and reads and writes data from and to cards. 【0017】 The operation processing of the cash management mechanism 91 includes a process of operating the cash management mechanism 91 so that the inserted banknote is introduced into the card unit 9, a process of issuing an error notification if the inserted banknote becomes jammed inside the cash management mechanism 91, and a process of adding the play value corresponding to the inserted banknote to the current loan balance and temporarily storing the result in RAM. 【0018】 The operation processing of the card management mechanism 92 includes processing for operating the card management mechanism 92 so that an inserted card is introduced into the card unit 9, processing for operating the card management mechanism 92 so that a card is ejected in response to operation of the card ejection button, and the like. 【0019】 The lending process of the gaming value includes a process of transmitting data of the gaming value to be lent in response to the operation of the lending button to the slot machine 1. At the time of this transmission, a process of subtracting the gaming value to be lent from the gaming value data of the remaining lending balance temporarily stored in the RAM in the card unit 9 is also performed. 【0020】 The card authentication process includes a process for determining whether or not the input PIN matches the PIN written on the card when the PIN is input via the display panel when the card is inserted into the insertion / ejection opening. If the card unit side control unit 93 determines that they match, it allows the authenticated card to be continued to be used, but if it determines that they do not match, it may not allow the authenticated card to be continued to be used (restrict use). 【0021】 The process of reading data from the card includes a process of reading the gaming value data, if any, written on the card, and temporarily storing it in RAM as the loan balance. 【0022】 The writing process to the card includes a process of receiving the game value data transferred to the card unit 9 in response to the operation of the counting button 46 (described later) of the slot machine 1, temporarily storing the data in RAM, and then writing the data to the card in response to the operation of the card ejection button. When the card ejection button is operated and game value data has already been written to the card, the card unit side control unit 93 adds the game value received from the slot machine 1 to the data and writes it to the card (update process). 【0023】 As a result, when the card ejection button on the card unit 9 is operated, a card on which at least one of the data of the game value and loan balance owned by the player is written is ejected from the card insertion / ejection opening. 【0024】 The card unit 9 is also connected to be able to communicate with a hall computer, a unit management computer, etc. (not shown), which are devices other than the slot machine 1. For example, various information related to the slot machine 1, such as information on advantageous game states including the number of games played in advantageous game states (AT, CZ, special role (bonus) implementation state, etc.), changes in the amount of game value, the number of games played, and the ratio of roles, is sent from the card unit 9 to the hall computer and the unit management computer. 【0025】 <Slot machine configuration> As shown in Fig. 1, a slot machine 1, which is a medal-less machine, has a cabinet 10. A front door 100 is provided on the front side of the cabinet 10. 【0026】 A keyhole is provided near the right end of the front door 100 as viewed from the front. A key for locking or unlocking the front door 100 and the housing 10 can be inserted into the keyhole. Since the front door 100 and the housing 10 are kept locked during play, the player cannot access the inside of the housing 10. In addition, since the slot machine 1 is a medal-less machine, there is no need to provide a selector or hopper device inside the housing 10, and the operation of the store staff to replenish real medals during play is omitted. Therefore, during play, except when an error occurs in the slot machine 1, the store staff will not unlock the front door 100 and the housing 10 in principle. When the store staff performs setting change work, setting value confirmation work, maintenance work, etc., the front door 100 and the housing 10 are unlocked, and the front door 100 can be rotated relative to the housing 10. This allows the store staff to access the inside of the housing 10. 【0027】 A transparent reel window 200 is provided in the center of the front door 100. Through this reel window 200, a player can see a plurality of symbols displayed on the surface of each of a plurality of rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, which will be described later. 【0028】 A liquid crystal screen 3, a speaker 102, and an illumination unit 103 for performing various effects during a game are provided above the reel window 200. The liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the illumination unit 103 correspond to a notification unit. 【0029】 The liquid crystal screen 3 displays various kinds of effect moving images (effect screens) while the player is playing a game. 【0030】 The speaker 102 outputs predetermined BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), and voice. 【0031】 The illumination unit 103 lights up or goes out in a predetermined pattern, for example, when a highly anticipated performance screen is displayed or when a winning combination is achieved. 【0032】 An operation unit 4 is provided below the reel window 200. The operation unit 4 is provided in a position where the player can see and touch it. The operation unit 4 includes a plurality of stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, a bet switch 41, a lever 42, a medium display unit 43, a game information display unit 44, a cancel button 45, a counting button 46, and a performance button 47. 【0033】 The stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are provided corresponding to the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, respectively. The stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c each accept an operation for stopping the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c while the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c are rotating. 【0034】 A lamp may be provided inside each of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c. The lamp can indicate, for example, by emitting a color that indicates that the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are in an inoperative state from when the lever 42 is operated until each of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c reaches a steady rotation state. The lamp can also indicate, by emitting a color different from the above color, that the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are in an operable state from when each of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c reaches a steady rotation state until the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are operated. 【0035】 The bet switch 41 is used when betting a game value. In this embodiment, a case where a predetermined number of game values ​​(for example, three coins) that can be played once is automatically bet by pressing the bet switch 41 once is illustrated. 【0036】 The lever 42 functions as a start switch that accepts an operation to rotate each of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. For the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c to start, a "wait condition" must be met that requires an interval of at least a minimum play time (about 4.1 seconds) between the start of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c in the previous game and the start of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c in the next game. Therefore, when the lever 42 is operated, each of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c starts after this wait condition is met. 【0037】 The medium display unit 43 displays the amount of gaming value (hereinafter also referred to as the number of credits) managed by the medium management unit 620 of the slot machine 1, the amount of gaming value to be paid out, etc., and is composed of, for example, multiple seven segments. 【0038】 In this embodiment, the "number of payouts of game value" does not mean the action of actual medals being paid out to the outside of the slot machine 1, but means that the game value is increased by an amount corresponding to a winning combination established by an internal drawing. In other words, the number of payouts of game value means an increase in the numerical value of a pseudo game medium converted into electronic data. 【0039】 In this embodiment, the number of credits is provided with a credit upper limit. This credit upper limit is not related to the operation process of the complete function described later, and is used in a notification process for urging the player to transfer the game value to the card unit 9 when the amount of game value being managed is relatively large. This notification process will be described later in "-Medium Management Unit-". 【0040】 The game information display unit 44 displays information related to the game other than the information displayed on the medium display unit 43, and is composed of LEDs, lamps, 7-segment displays, etc. The information displayed by the game information display unit 44 includes the number of bets of the game value in one game, whether or not a special role is being implemented, whether a replay (replay) has been won, and if an operation mode role is won during AT or ART, a code corresponding to the correct operation mode of the operation mode role. 【0041】 The cancel button 45 can accept an operation to change a betted game value to a non-betted state. For example, when the cancel button 45 is operated when the betted game value is 1 or more, the media management unit 620 described later updates the betted game value to "0" and adds the betted game value immediately before it becomes "0" to the managed game value. As a result, the number of credits displayed by the media display unit 43 increases by the amount of the betted game value. In other words, the cancel button 45 can be said to be a button for causing the media management unit 620 to execute a bet release process that returns the betted game value to the number of credits by transitioning the bet state to a non-bet state. 【0042】 The bet cancellation process based on the operation of the cancel button 45 is valid when a bet has been placed but the lever 42 has not yet been operated, and is invalid from when the lever 42 is operated until the game based on the operation of the lever 42 ends. In this embodiment, the cancel button 45 is disposed near the bet switch 41. 【0043】 The counting button 46 can receive an operation for transferring data of the game value managed by the media management unit 620 of the slot machine 1 from the media management unit 620 to the card unit 9. For example, when the counting button 46 is operated when the managed game value is 1 or more, the media management unit 620 subtracts the managed game value toward 0. The data of the subtracted game value is transmitted to the card unit 9. 【0044】 The amount of subtraction from the managed game value when the count button 46 is operated once may be determined in advance, for example, to be "1" or "50." Also, while the count button 46 is being operated continuously, the managed game value may continue to be subtracted. 【0045】 In this embodiment, the counting button 46 is disposed on the side of the operation unit 4 that is closer to the card unit 9 when viewed from the front of the slot machine 1. This makes it easier for the player to understand that the counting button 46 is a button related to the card unit 9, and also makes the flow of operations from pressing the counting button 46 until the card is discharged from the card unit 9 smoother. 【0046】 Furthermore, the count button 46 may be provided with a lamp inside or around the button 46 that changes its luminous color before and after operation. 【0047】 The effect button 47 is a button used by the player to set the volume, check game data, and set various menu settings related to the game when playing a game. The effect button 47 may be pressed by the player during the game depending on the effect. When the effect button 47 is pressed during the game, a change occurs in the effect. 【0048】 In addition, a lamp capable of emitting light in various colors and patterns may be provided inside the effect button 47. The lamp is turned on when the effect button 47 is in an operable state, and is turned off when the effect button 47 is in an invalid state. In addition, when the operation of the effect button 47 is triggered to output a winning notification effect of a special combination or advantageous game state such as AT, the lamp can also flash at high speed in a color different from that when it is normally lit, such as red or rainbow colors. 【0049】 Near each switch of the operation unit 4, a sensor is provided for detecting the operation by the player and outputting an operation signal to the control unit 6. 【0050】 2, the slot machine 1 includes a spinning reel unit 2, a control unit 6, a reset button 71, and a setting change button 72. The spinning reel unit 2, the control unit 6, the reset button 71, and the setting change button 72 are disposed inside the cabinet 10 together with a power supply device (not shown) that turns on and off the main power supply of the slot machine 1. 【0051】 As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the reel unit 2 includes three reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and three stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c. The reel unit 2 is disposed in the housing 10 in a manner corresponding to the position of the reel window 200. As shown in Fig. 3, a plurality of patterns (symbols) are disposed on each of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c at intervals along the circumferential direction of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are provided in correspondence with the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and drive the corresponding reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. 【0052】 The stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c stop the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the operated stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c within 190 ms after the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c are operated while the reels 20a, 20b, 20c are rotating. The stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c rotate once in 504 steps. As a result, the reels 20a, 20b, 20c rotate at a speed of 80 rotations per minute. In other words, the number of steps that advance within 190 ms is 127. 【0053】 The rotation and stopping of these reels 20a, 20b, and 20c and stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are controlled by a reel control section 611 (described later) in the control section 6. 【0054】 The reset button 71 is operated to release various errors or to initialize the RAM constituting the control unit 6. For example, when the power of the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on while the reset button 71 is pressed, the quantity of game value managed by the medium management unit 620 of the slot machine 1 is cleared to "0", and the second game state of the slot machine 1 is set to the "general game state" and the game zone is set to the "normal zone." 【0055】 The setting change button 72 is a button pressed by a store staff member when setting one of a plurality of setting values ​​in the slot machine 1. For example, when the power supply of the slot machine 1 is switched from OFF to ON while the slot machine 1 is set in the setting change mode, the setting change button 72 becomes operable, and the setting value can be set by operating the setting change button 72 in this state. 【0056】 During a game or while waiting to play, the cabinet 10 and the front door 100 are locked, so that the reset button 71 and the setting change button 72 can only be touched by those who have the right to unlock them (for example, store staff who have the key). In principle, they are only unlocked when an error occurs in the slot machine 1. Therefore, the player cannot touch the reset button 71 and the setting change button 72. 【0057】 The set value is a value that represents the payout rate, which indicates the ratio of the total amount of paid-out game value to the total amount of game value inserted into the slot machine 1. The set set value affects the internal lottery. This is because the probability of winning at least some of the winning combinations differs depending on the set value. The set value is set by the store staff before the store opens. 【0058】 <The flow of play by the player> The player presses the effect button 47 to adjust the volume output from the speaker 102 and the brightness of the liquid crystal screen 3, as necessary. 【0059】 The player operates the loan button of the card unit 9 to transfer the game value data to the slot machine 1, and then operates the bet switch 41 to bet the game value on the slot machine 1 using the game value managed by the media management unit 620. When a predetermined amount of game value is bet on the slot machine 1, the pay line L is activated. After that, the lever 42 can be operated, i.e., the game can start. 【0060】 FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the active line L is composed of one line that slopes upward to the right. The active line L is a virtual line for determining the winning combination. In this embodiment, the active line L is activated when a MAX BET (3 coins bet) is placed. 【0061】 In the following, "winning" is not only when a combination that pays out medals, such as bells or watermelons, aligns on the valid line L, but also when symbols corresponding to specific combinations, such as special replays, chance symbols, and special combinations (bonuses), align on the valid line L. 【0062】 In this embodiment, one game (one play) refers to a series of actions in which the player operates the bet switch 41, the lever 42, and the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c to obtain the result of the play, including the internal lottery, the winning determination process, and the increase / decrease process of the play value. 【0063】 Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated (lever on) in a state where a game can be started, an internal drawing is performed to determine a winning flag, and each of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c starts to rotate. In this state, when any of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is operated, the rotating reel 20a, 20b, and 20c corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a, 40b, and 40c stops. When all the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c stop, a payout process of a predetermined amount of game value is performed according to the combination (winning combination) of symbols that are aligned (winning) on ​​the pay line L. This ends one game. 【0064】 The player repeats the above game. As the game progresses, the display on the liquid crystal screen 3, the sound output from the speaker 102, and the light emitted by the illumination unit 203 change in accordance with the progress of the game. 【0065】 <About game status> During the game, the game zones and game states are set, and an internal lottery is performed based on the set game zones and game states. The game states include a first game state and a second game state, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. Note that the first game state and the second game state are not exclusively established game states, but are merely classified states for the purpose of distinction for the sake of convenience. 【0066】 The first game state includes a special role non-carryover state (non-bonus internal state), a special role carryover state (inside the bonus) and a special role implementation state (during the bonus), as shown in Fig. 4. The special role non-carryover state, the special role carryover state and the special role implementation state are in an exclusively established relationship. 【0067】 The special role non-carryover state refers to a state in which the special role (Type 1 BB and Type 2 BB) has not been won by the internal lottery and the winning of the special role has not been carried over. The special role non-carryover state is set when condition A is met, such as when the setting value is changed, the RAM is initialized, or the payout of the game value exceeds a specified number after transitioning to the special role implementation state. 【0068】 The special role carryover state refers to a state in which a special role has been won by the internal lottery, but the winning of the special role has been carried over. In other words, the special role carryover state refers to a state in which the flag of the special role has been won by the internal lottery, but the pattern indicating the special role has not been aligned on the valid line L, and therefore the special role has not yet won. 【0069】 Here, the type 1 BB is a device for continuously operating a special type 1 BB, and the type 2 BB is a device for continuously operating a special type 2 BB. For example, the number of bets on the game value when a type 1 BB becomes a candidate for winning when the number of bets is the maximum number "3", and the type 2 BB becomes a candidate for winning when the number of bets is less than the maximum number, so that the number of bets on the game value when a type 1 BB becomes a candidate for winning may be different from that of a type 2 BB. Also, the special role may be only a type 1 BB. Also, a type 1 BB cannot be won while a type 1 BB is carried over. 【0070】 When a special role is won while the first gaming state is a special role non-carry-over state, the first gaming state transitions from the special role non-carry-over state to a state in which the winning of the special role that has been won is carried over (special role carry-over state). 【0071】 When the winning special role is won (condition B), the first game state transitions from the special role carryover state to the special role implementation state. The special role implementation state refers to a state in which a special role (bonus) won by an internal lottery is won, and the payout of the game value exceeding a predetermined number has not been completed. For example, when the first game state transitions to the special role implementation state due to the winning of a type 1 BB or a type 2 BB, the special role implementation state is maintained until the number of payouts of the game value due to the type 1 BB or type 2 BB exceeds the predetermined number. 【0072】 In more detail, the special role implementation state includes a type 1 BB implementation state, a type 2 BB implementation state, and a RB implementation state. If a RB is won by an internal lottery during a type 1 BB implementation state in which a type 1 BB is being implemented, the special role implementation state transitions from a type 1 BB implementation state to a type 1 BB implementation state. If 12 games are played or a specific role is won 8 times in the RB implementation state, the special role implementation state transitions to a type 1 BB implementation state. 【0073】 As shown in FIG. 5, the second gaming state includes a general gaming state, a chance zone (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as CZ), and an AT state as a special gaming state. The special gaming state includes an AT state and a special role implementation state. The general gaming state, the CZ, and the AT state (special gaming state) are in an exclusive relationship. 【0074】 The general game state is a state that is not a special game state such as an AT state or a special role implementation state, and is not a CZ state, that is, a state in which the assist function (instruction function) does not occur (or is unlikely to occur). For example, the second game state is set to the general game state from after the RAM is cleared or after the AT ends until the AT lottery is won. As an example, when the game zone is an advantageous zone, the AT lottery is held according to the winning role (rare role, etc.) by the internal lottery. 【0075】 The AT state is a state in which an assist function (AT function) is working, which informs the player of the correct operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c for roles other than the special role won by the internal lottery, via the liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the illumination unit 103. If the AT is won by the AT lottery while the game zone is an advantageous zone, the second game state transitions from the general game state to the AT state. The second game state transitions from the AT state to the general game state when a predetermined number of games have passed since the game started in the AT state, when the total number of payouts of the game value since the game started in the AT state reaches a predetermined number, when a decision is made not to continue the AT in the continuation lottery in the AT state, when a decision is made to transition to the general game state in the fall lottery from the AT state to the general game state, etc. This ends the AT state. 【0076】 The CZ is a second game state in which the expectation of transition to the AT state (special game state) is higher than that of the general game state. A high expectation of transition to the AT state includes direct, such as a high probability of transition from the CZ to the AT state, and indirect, such as increasing the probability of transition to the AT state afterwards. Therefore, the CZ can be said to be a state in which the game is more advantageous for the player than the general game state. Although the CZ and the AT state are common in that they are more advantageous for the player than the general game state, the AT state can be said to be even more advantageous than the CZ. The CZ can be entered when certain conditions are met, such as when the CZ lottery, which is based on the winning combination in the internal lottery, when the number of games played in the advantageous zone reaches a predetermined number of games, or when the points accumulated as the game progresses reach a predetermined value. 【0077】 <About the game area> The above-mentioned game zone is a zone for determining whether or not the processing related to the instruction function is performed. As shown in FIG. 6, the game zone has a normal zone and an advantageous zone. The normal zone and the advantageous zone are in an exclusive relationship, and the game zone can be either the normal zone or the advantageous zone. 【0078】 Here, processing related to the instruction function includes processing to exercise the instruction function (provide assistance), lottery processing for a mode in which the AT winning probability is determined, processing to transition to that mode, CZ lottery processing, CZ processing, AT lottery processing, AT continuation processing, AT addition processing (including addition of the number of AT continuation games, addition of the difference in sheets, and addition of the number of sets), processing to fall from the AT state to the general game state, AT processing, and processing to transition from the advantageous zone to the normal zone. 【0079】 The normal zone is a zone in which processing related to the instruction function cannot be executed, but a lottery for zone transition to the advantageous zone is conducted. When any condition for transition to the advantageous zone is satisfied in the normal zone, the game zone transitions from the normal zone to the advantageous zone. Note that while the second game state is the general game state, the game zone can be the normal zone. 【0080】 The advantageous zone is a zone in which processing related to the instruction function can be executed. The advantageous zone includes an advantageous zone in which the second gaming state progresses in a general gaming state, an advantageous zone in which the second gaming state progresses in a CZ, and an advantageous zone in which the second gaming state progresses in an AT state. The gaming zone remains an advantageous zone from the time the gaming zone transitions to the advantageous zone until a specified end condition is met. The specified end condition will be described later in "- Zone Control Unit - ". 【0081】 As a summary of the above, possible combination patterns of game sections and second game states in the slot machine 1 will now be listed. Pattern 1: The game zone is the normal zone, and the second game state is the normal game state Pattern 2: The game zone is a favorable zone, and the second game state is a general game state Pattern 3: The game zone is a favorable zone and the second game state is a CZ Pattern 4: The game zone is a favorable zone, and the second game state is an AT state As described above, when the game zone is a normal zone, no processing related to the instruction function can be performed, so it can be said that there is little advantage for the player. On the other hand, when the game zone is an advantageous zone, processing related to the instruction function can be performed, so the range of game progress is wider, and it can be said that there is an advantage for the player compared to the normal zone. 【0082】 <Configuration of each control unit> 2, the control unit 6 mainly includes a main control unit 61, a game value number control unit 62, and a sub-control unit 63. The main control unit 61 performs control for progressing the game, such as interrupt processing such as timer interruption, and control of the internal lottery and the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The game value number control unit 62 manages and processes game values, and controls communication with the card unit 9. The sub-control unit 63 performs control related to effects based on signals sent from the main control unit 61 and the pressing of the effect button 47. 【0083】 The main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 each include a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM. The ROM of the main control unit 61 stores programs and the like necessary for game progress, and the RAM of the main control unit 61 stores game data necessary for game progress. The game data includes the current number of games, as well as data indicating which game state and game section each state or section is in, and setting values. The ROM of the game value number control unit 62 stores programs and the like necessary for managing game values ​​and communicating with the card unit 9, and the RAM of the game value number control unit 62 stores the total number of game values ​​being managed, and the like. The ROM of the sub-control unit 63 stores programs and the like necessary for controlling presentation, and the RAM of the sub-control unit 63 stores various data and the like related to presentation control. 【0084】 Here, the connection relationship and communication process of the main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. In this embodiment, the main control unit 61, the game value number control unit 62, and the sub-control unit 63 are mounted on different boards. 【0085】 The main control board P1 on which the main control unit 61 is mounted and the game value control board P2 on which the game value number control unit 62 is mounted are electrically connected by a harness, and two-way serial communication can be performed. Information and commands transmitted from the main control board P1 to the game value control board P2 include: outer end information, whether or not the setting is being changed, commands related to various errors, a bet request signal for the game value when the bet switch 41 is operated, a payout request signal for the game value corresponding to the winning combination, a bet cancellation request signal when the cancel button 45 is operated, a transfer request for the game value when the count button 46 is operated, etc. Information and commands transmitted from the game value control board P2 to the main control board P1 include information that the complete function has been activated, information that the number of credits has reached the upper limit, information on the presence or absence of a communication abnormality between the card unit 9 and the slot machine 1, various responses to requests from the main control board 61, etc. 【0086】 The main control board P1 and the sub-control board P3 on which the sub-control unit 63 is mounted are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication is performed from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3. Information and commands transmitted from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3 include information on game value (for example, game value bet / payout information, total game value acquired during AT), information on the start / end of game, information on the start / end of device operation, information on various errors, etc. 【0087】 The game value control board P2 and the sub-control board P3 are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication is performed from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3. Information and commands transmitted from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3 include the MY value described below, information indicating the operation of the complete function, commands related to advance notification before the complete function is activated, information related to the transfer of game value (for example, transfer start, transfer in progress, transfer completed, etc.), information indicating the number of credits and the number of coins acquired, information indicating that the number of credits has reached the upper limit, and error information if a credit number backup error has occurred. 【0088】 <Main control unit> Returning to Fig. 2, the main control unit 61 functions as an internal lottery unit 610, a reel control unit 611, a game result determination unit 612, a game progress control unit 614, a section control unit 615, a game status control unit 616, and an error determination unit 617 by the CPU reading and executing the programs in the ROM. 【0089】 - Internal lottery section - The internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery based on the operation of the lever 42, and sets one flag among a plurality of role flags as a winning flag to win. Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated, the internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery according to an internal lottery table (not shown) and a random number obtained when the lever 42 is operated. The internal lottery unit 610 generates an internal lottery result signal based on the result of the internal lottery. The internal lottery result signal can be used by the spinning reel control unit 611, the game progress control unit 614, etc. 【0090】 The internal lottery table shows information on winning combinations that may be obtained by an internal lottery. Based on the internal lottery table, the internal lottery section 610 performs an internal lottery according to the RT state (not shown) when the lever 42 is operated, the type of special combination if in a specific combination implementation state (bonus), and a combination of set values. The information on the combinations shown in the internal lottery table includes one or more combinations of symbols associated with the combination of symbols. The winning combinations include losing combinations that do not result in the payment of game value, operation mode combinations that pay out game value when the operation mode of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is the correct operation mode, rare combinations, and the like. 【0091】 The operation mode roles include a push order role in which the correct operation mode is determined only by the push order of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, a push order role that requires a certain timing for pressing the buttons in addition to the push order, and a certain timing for pressing the buttons in which the correct operation mode is determined only by the timing for the buttons to stop. 【0092】 For example, if the push order role is won and the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are pressed in the correct order, the push order role wins and multiple (e.g., 8 coins) game values ​​corresponding to the role are paid out. If the push order role is won but the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are not pressed in the correct order, the push order role will not win or another role (such as a 1 coin role) will win. 【0093】 In addition, operation mode roles such as push order roles are won not only in the AT state, but also in the general game state and CZ. If an operation mode role is established during the general game state, the correct operation mode is not notified, so the operation mode role may be missed or only one coin may be paid out. During the AT state, the correct operation mode is notified, so multiple (e.g., 8 coins) game values ​​are paid out. 【0094】 -Rotary reel control unit- The rotating reel control unit 611 controls the driving of the stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c based on the operation of the lever 42 or each stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c, and performs rotation start control to start the rotation of each rotating reel 20a, 20b, 20c, or rotation stop control to stop the rotation. 【0095】 Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated while all of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c are stopped, the reel control unit 611 starts the rotation of all of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c. When the stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c corresponding to the rotating reel 20a, 20b, 20c is operated while at least one of the reels 20a, 20b, 20c is rotating, the reel control unit 611 stops the rotation of the reel 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the operated stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c. 【0096】 In the spin stop control, the spin reel control unit 611 can stop the spin of the spin reels 20a, 20b, 20c based on the operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the role indicated by the winning flag is positioned on the pay line L of the spin reels 20a, 20b, 20c, thereby winning the role. 【0097】 In addition, in the spin stop control, the spin reel control unit 611 performs pull-in control or kick-off control according to the winning combination and the position of the spin reels 20a, 20b, 20c when each stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c is operated. The pull-in control is a control that stops the spin of the spin reels 20a, 20b, 20c by pulling in the symbols corresponding to the winning combination onto the pay line L. The kick-off control is a control that stops the spin of the spin reels 20a, 20b, 20c so that the symbols corresponding to the non-winning combination do not line up on the pay line L. 【0098】 In addition, while the special role is being carried over (within the bonus), the rotating reel control unit 611 stops the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c based on the operation of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, but if the conditions for allowing the special role to be won are not met, it is possible to control the winning special role (bonus) so that it is not won. 【0099】 -Game result judgment section- The game result determination unit 612 determines the game result based on the results of the internal lottery and the spin stop control of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. The game result means the result of determining whether or not the winning combination has been awarded based on the symbols that have lined up on the pay line L. Specifically, when the combination of symbols that have stopped on the pay line L matches a predetermined combination of symbols, the game result determination unit 612 determines that the winning combination has been awarded. 【0100】 -Game progress control unit- The game progress control unit 614 controls the game progress based on the operation of the player. At that time, the game progress control unit 614 controls the game progress by the player based on the setting value set by the store staff. 【0101】 Furthermore, when the reset button 71 is pressed, the game progress control unit 614 initializes the RAM of the main control unit 61 to clear game data such as the first and second game states and game sections. When the setting change button 72 is pressed, the game progress control unit 614 changes the current setting value to another setting value. 【0102】 -Section Control Unit- The zone control unit 615 sets one of a plurality of game zones (normal zone and advantageous zone) when the player plays. 【0103】 Specifically, when the gaming area is a normal area and the transition condition to the advantageous area is satisfied, the area control unit 615 sets (transitions) the gaming area from the normal area to the advantageous area. 【0104】 In addition, when the game zone is an advantageous zone, the zone control unit 615 determines whether to maintain the advantageous zone state or to transition to a normal zone. For example, when the game zone is an advantageous zone, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as the second game state transitioning from an AT state to a general game state, the zone control unit 615 transitions the game zone from the advantageous zone to the normal zone even if the forced termination condition described later is not satisfied. 【0105】 In addition, when a forced termination condition (first predetermined condition) is satisfied, including a case where the difference in game value during the advantageous zone based on the quantity of game value at the time of entering the advantageous zone reaches 2400, the zone control unit 615 forcibly shifts the game zone from the advantageous zone to the normal zone. The zone control unit 615 executes a first process (see FIG. 8) in the advantageous zone for each game. The first process is a process for determining whether or not the forced termination condition is satisfied, and terminating the advantageous zone during which the game is in progress when the forced termination condition is satisfied. The difference in game value during the advantageous zone changes as the game progresses in the advantageous zone, and is used as the forced termination condition. Since the advantageous zone ends when the forced termination condition is satisfied, the difference in game value during the advantageous zone can be said to be a kind of parameter related to the duration of the advantageous zone. The first process is executed in both the first zone and the second zone described later, as shown in FIG. 8. 【0106】 In this embodiment, a limit value is set for the difference in game value obtained in the advantageous zone. The difference is the cumulative value of the amount of game value paid out minus the number of bets. The limit value for the difference in game value obtained in the advantageous zone is, as an example of the condition for forcibly terminating the advantageous zone described above, that the difference in game value during the advantageous zone based on the amount of game value at the time of entering the advantageous zone reaches 2400 coins (a predetermined limit value). Since the amount of game value at the time of entering the advantageous zone is used as the standard (for example, the difference is expressed as "0"), the predetermined limit value (2400 coins) can also be said to be a limit value for the increase in game value that becomes positive for a player who has been playing continuously since entering the advantageous zone. As a specific example, the first and second examples will be described. In the first example, assume that a losing state (a state in which the number of game values ​​betted is greater than the number of payouts) continues from the time of entering the advantageous zone, the difference becomes a negative value, and the bottom price (for example, -1000) is reached. Thereafter, assume that a winning state (a state in which the number of game values ​​betted is smaller than the number of payouts) continues, and the difference in game values ​​from the time of entering the advantageous zone returns to 0. If the winning state continues, the time when the difference in game values ​​from the time of entering the advantageous zone reaches the above-mentioned predetermined limit value of 2400 and the advantageous zone is forcibly terminated is the time when the difference in game values ​​from the time the bottom price is reached 3400. The balance of the player's game value is initially -1000, then +3400, and the condition for forcibly terminating the advantageous zone is met when the balance reaches a total of +2400. On the other hand, in the second example, if the winning state continues from the time of entering the advantageous zone, the difference in the game value from the time of entering the advantageous zone reaches 2400 coins and the advantageous zone is forced to end. The condition for the forced end of the advantageous zone is met when the player's game value balance reaches +2400 coins without ever becoming negative. 【0107】 In this specification, the quantity of game value (e.g., the number of medals) may be expressed as "number", and the difference between the quantity of game value bet and the quantity of game value obtained as a result of playing may be expressed as "difference in number of medals". However, these expressions are not limited to gaming machines that use gaming media such as medals, and for convenience of explanation, the term "number" is also used in gaming machines that use the quantity of pseudo-game media converted into electronic data as the quantity of game value. 【0108】 In addition, when the setting value is changed or the game data is cleared, the interval control unit 615 sets the game interval to the normal interval regardless of the game interval immediately before the reset. 【0109】 -Game status control unit- The gaming state control unit 616 sets the first gaming state and the second gaming state. 【0110】 Specifically, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to any one of a special role non-carryover state, a special role carryover state, and a special role implementation state, and sets the second game state to any one of a general game state, a CZ state, and an AT state. 【0111】 As an example, as shown in Fig. 4, when a predetermined condition such as clearing the RAM of the main control unit 61 or changing the settings is satisfied, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to a special role non-carryover state. Immediately after a special role is won by an internal lottery, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to a special role carryover state. When the special role is won, the game state control unit 616 sets the first game state to a special role implementation state. 【0112】 Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the gaming state control unit 616 judges whether or not to set the second gaming state to the AT state (i.e., whether or not the AT has been won) based on the result of the AT drawing. If the AT drawing is won during the advantageous zone, the gaming state control unit 616 sets the second gaming state to the AT state. Conversely, if the AT drawing is not won, the gaming state control unit 616 can set the second gaming state to the general gaming state or CZ. Also, when the AT ends, the gaming state control unit 616 can transition the second gaming state from the AT state to the general gaming state or CZ. 【0113】 Although not shown, the game state control unit 616 can control the transition of the RT state. The RT state is an internal state of the game in which the probability of winning the replay flag is predetermined. The slot machine 1 is provided with a plurality of RT states with different winning probabilities of the replay flag, and when the RT transition condition is satisfied in any RT state, the RT state is transitioned to another RT state. For example, during a special role carryover state in which the AT may be executed, the RT state is not transitioned and one RT state is maintained. In states other than the special role carryover state, the RT state may be transitioned. 【0114】 --Error Judgment Section-- The error determination unit 617 determines whether or not various errors have occurred. Examples of various errors include a backup abnormality, a communication abnormality between the main control board P1 and the game value control board P2, a connection abnormality between the slot machine 1 and the card unit 9, reaching the upper limit of the number of credits, etc. 【0115】 When the error determination unit 617 determines that at least one of these errors has occurred, a command indicating the error that has occurred is transmitted as information regarding the error from the main control unit 61 to each of the game value number control unit 62 and the sub-control unit 63. This allows the game value number control unit 62 to perform processing according to the content of the error, such as backing up the game value being managed, and the sub-control unit 63 to perform processing to notify the liquid crystal screen 3 or the speaker 102 of the content of the error that has occurred. 【0116】 <Game value number control unit> The CPU reads out and executes the program in the ROM, whereby the game value number control unit 62 functions as a medium management unit 620 and a complete operation control unit 621. 【0117】 -Media Management Department- The media management unit 620 performs increase / decrease processing and management processing of the gaming value (number of credits). For example, the media management unit 620 increases the game value being managed in response to the game value being transferred from the card unit 9. When a betting request for game value is received from the main control unit 61, the media management unit 620 judges whether or not betting processing is possible based on the game value being managed and the betting request. When the game value being managed is equal to or greater than the number of bets, the media management unit 620 judges that "betting is possible" and subtracts the amount of the bet from the game value being managed. When the game value being managed is less than the number of bets, the media management unit 620 judges that "betting is not possible" and performs processing to transmit that fact to the main control unit 61. When betting is not possible, the amount of game value being managed is maintained. 【0118】 When a combination with a payout is won by the internal lottery and the combination wins, the media management unit 620 performs processing to increase the game value being managed by an amount corresponding to the type of winning combination. 【0119】 When the cancel button 45 is operated, the media management unit 620 increases the gaming value being managed by the amount that has been bet. When the count button 46 is operated, the media management unit 620 transfers the data of the gaming value being managed to the card unit 9. 【0120】 Furthermore, the media management unit 620 calculates the difference in gaming value, which is the cumulative value of the amount obtained by subtracting the number of bets from the amount of paid-out gaming value. Using this difference, the media management unit 620 calculates the following: (A) Difference in gaming value during each favorable zone (B) A range (hereinafter, MY value) that is the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the difference number after the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on. 【0121】 The above (A) is used to determine whether the conditions for the forced termination of the advantageous zone are met. The above (A) is calculated continuously from when the game zone transitions from the normal zone to the advantageous zone until it transitions back to the normal zone. Therefore, the above (A) is cleared when the zone transitions to the normal zone, and calculation starts again when the zone transitions back to the advantageous zone. 【0122】 The above (B) is used to control the operation of the complete function described below. The above (B) continues to be calculated as long as the power of the slot machine 1 is on, regardless of the game section or various game states. The above (B) is cleared when the power of the slot machine 1 is turned off, and calculation starts again when the power is turned on again. 【0123】 The media management unit 620 also determines whether the game value being managed, that is, the number of credits, has reached the credit upper limit. When the number of credits has reached the credit upper limit, the main control unit 61 and the sub-control unit 63 are notified. As a result, the sub-control unit 63 performs a notification process using the liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the illumination unit 103 to prompt the transfer of credit number data to the card unit 9 by operating the counting button 46. While this notification process is being performed, the main control unit 61 performs a game stop process to stop the progress of the game, such as making the bet switch 41 and the lever 42 in an inoperative state. The state in which this notification process and game stop process are being performed can be released when the number of credits falls below the credit upper limit by transferring the credit number data by operating the counting button 46. 【0124】 In addition, when the number of credits reaches a value that is lower than the credit upper limit and is close to the credit upper limit value, a notification process for prompting the operation of the count button 46 may be performed without performing the game progress stop process. 【0125】 -Complete operation control section- The complete operation control section 621 controls the operation of the complete function when the above-mentioned MY value becomes equal to or greater than the MY upper limit value (for example, equal to or greater than 19000). 【0126】 The complete function is a function that stops a game and puts the slot machine 1 in a state where it is not possible to play. In the slot machine 1 where the complete function is in operation, the operation parts necessary for completing a game, such as the bet switch 41, the lever 42, and the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c, are in a state where they cannot accept any operation. Therefore, for example, no matter how many times the bet switch 41 is operated in the slot machine 1 where the complete function is in operation, no bet processing is performed. The operation of this complete function is maintained unless the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on and then off by the store staff. After the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on again, the operation of the complete function is released (the complete function is in an inactive state). 【0127】 In addition, when the MY value becomes lower than the MY upper limit value but is close to the MY upper limit value (for example, 18,500 or more), the complete operation control unit 621 performs processing to send a pre-notification command indicating that the complete function is about to be activated to the sub-control unit 63. 【0128】 <Sub-controller> The CPU reads and executes the program in the ROM, causing the sub-control unit 63 to function as a performance control unit 630 (corresponding to a notification control unit). 【0129】 -Direction Control Department- The performance control unit 630 displays a performance image selected from a plurality of types of performance images on the liquid crystal screen 3 based on the progress of the game, outputs sound effects and background music corresponding to the performance image from the speaker 102, and causes the illumination unit 103 to emit light in a light-emitting pattern corresponding to the performance image. For example, when an AT or a bonus is won, the performance control unit 630 selects a performance pattern for displaying that fact on the liquid crystal screen 3, and controls the display of the liquid crystal screen 3, the sound output control of the speaker 102, and the light emission control of the illumination unit 103 according to the performance pattern. 【0130】 During the AT, the performance control unit 630 causes at least one of the liquid crystal screen 3 and the speaker 102 to notify the player of the correct operation mode of the operation mode combination that is successively won (assist function, i.e., instruction function). 【0131】 In addition, when the notification conditions for the effect suggesting the setting value are met during the game, the effect control unit 630 causes at least one of the liquid crystal screen 3, the speaker 102, and the illumination unit 103 to notify the effect. The player can use this effect as one of the means to understand the setting value of the slot machine 1 currently being played. Notification conditions include when a rare combination is won, when the special combination (bonus) implementation state ends, when the AT ends, etc. 【0132】 -Game flow- FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a game flow of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is configured to be able to execute games in the general game state in the normal zone, the general game state in the advantageous zone, the CZ in the advantageous zone, and the AT state (special game state) in the advantageous zone. If the transition condition to the advantageous zone is satisfied in the general game state in the normal zone, the game zone transitions from the normal zone to the advantageous zone, and the slot machine 1 becomes the general game state in the advantageous zone. If the transition condition to the CZ is satisfied in the general game state in the advantageous zone, the slot machine 1 transitions to the CZ in the advantageous zone. If the transition condition to the AT state is satisfied in the CZ, the slot machine 1 transitions to the AT state. Also, if the transition condition to the AT state is satisfied in the general game state in the advantageous zone, the slot machine 1 may transition to the AT state without passing through the CZ. Also, when transitioning from the normal zone to the advantageous zone, the slot machine 1 may transition to the CZ without passing through the general game state in the advantageous zone. 【0133】 The AT state of this embodiment includes a game number management type AT execution process in which the game progresses while the remaining number of games determined at the time of transition to the AT state is consumed, and an add-on determination process (not shown) that determines the number of add-on games to be added to the remaining number of games in the AT execution process. The remaining number of games and the add-on number of games in the AT state of this embodiment are parameters related to the period of the special game state (AT state) because their values ​​represent the period of the AT state. 【0134】 In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the advantageous zone includes a second zone called a special stage and a first zone other than the second zone. The first zone includes a general game state in the advantageous zone, and a CZ and AT state in the advantageous zone. The special stage (second zone) is a zone consisting of a predetermined number of games (for example, 5 games, etc.), and the first notification process, the second process, and the second notification process can each be executed at least once. The second process is a process that determines whether or not to end the advantageous zone based on a second predetermined condition described later in a state where the forced termination condition is not established (for example, a stage before the difference in the game value in the advantageous zone reaches 2400). The second predetermined condition is a condition used by the second process to determine whether or not to end the advantageous zone. When the special stage (second zone) is entered, the first notification process notifies the first performance that can suggest that the advantageous zone may end by executing the second process. This may give the player a sense of expectation that the advantageous zone may end by the second process. If it is determined in the second process that the advantageous zone will not end, the second notification process notifies the second performance (failure) related to the determination result of the second process, the ongoing advantageous zone continues, and transitions to the general game state or CZ in the advantageous zone. On the other hand, if it is determined in the second process that the advantageous zone will end, the second notification process notifies the second performance (success) related to the determination result of the second process, and the ongoing advantageous zone ends. 【0135】 Generally, there are known gaming machines that proceed in a manner favorable to the player only when the difference in game value in the favorable zone reaches +2400 coins and the forced termination condition is met to end the favorable zone, and there are also known gaming machines that end the favorable zone and transition to a manner favorable to the player when the difference in game value in the favorable zone reaches a certain degree, but not +2400 coins. Since such gaming machines know how many coins the player has obtained, it is possible to predict to some extent the timing when the favorable zone will end. However, unless the difference in game value in the favorable zone reaches or is close to +2400 coins, the favorable zone ends and the transition does not occur to a manner favorable to the player, so it is a high hurdle for players, and it is thought that only a very small number of players will be able to experience it. In this respect, in the present disclosure, as in a general gaming machine, a process (first process described later) is performed in which the advantageous zone is terminated when the forced termination condition is met, but a process (second process described later) is separately provided in which the advantageous zone is determined to be terminated or not without using the difference in the game value in the advantageous zone, and the player may enjoy the development by this second process, which may provide a new game feature. Furthermore, when the advantageous zone is terminated by the second process, whether to terminate the advantageous zone is determined by internal processing without using the difference in the game value in the advantageous zone, so the player does not know. Therefore, if the second process is executed and the first performance is notified of the possibility that the advantageous zone will end due to a condition other than the forced termination condition, such as "Now is your chance to end the advantageous zone!", it may be possible to provide a new notification mode and a new game feature that can give the player a sense of expectation that a reset-specific development obtained when the advantageous zone is reset will occur by actively causing the end of the advantageous zone by oneself, and thereby provide a new game feature. Furthermore, if the development after the end of the advantageous zone in the second process is made to have a relatively higher expected probability of winning balls than the development after the end of the advantageous zone in the first process, it may be possible to provide new gameplay in which the end of the advantageous zone in the second process by the player's operation (draw) becomes meaningful to the player. 【0136】 In order to realize the above processing, the processing in the advantageous zone shown in Fig. 8 includes a first processing, a second processing, a special stage entry determination processing, a first notification processing, and a second notification processing. The first processing, the second processing, and the special stage entry determination processing are executed by the main control unit 61. The first notification processing and the second notification processing are executed by the sub-control unit 63. 【0137】 --Special stage entry decision process (second section transition decision process)-- As shown in FIG. 8, it is possible to transition from the first section to the second section when the second section transition condition is satisfied. In this embodiment, the second section transition condition is one of the conditions that it is determined to transition to the special stage in the special stage entry determination process (second section transition determination process) that is executed when the AT state ends. The special stage entry determination process is a process that determines whether to transition to the special stage. The special stage entry determination process executes a lottery process according to the difference number or remaining difference number acquired in the advantageous section at the end of the AT state, and if it is won, it transitions to the special stage while staying in the advantageous section, and if it is not won, it transitions to the general game state or CZ while staying in the advantageous section without transitioning to the special stage. As an example, in the special stage entry determination process, if the remaining difference number acquired in the advantageous section at the end of the AT state is small, the expectation of transitioning to the special stage may be high, and if the remaining difference number acquired in the advantageous section at the end of the AT state is large, the expectation of transitioning to the special stage may be low. As an example of the opposite, in the special stage entry determination process, the expected probability of transitioning to the special stage may be low if the remaining difference in the number of coins obtained in the advantageous zone at the end of the AT state is small, and the expected probability of transitioning to the special stage may be high if the remaining difference in the number of coins obtained in the advantageous zone at the end of the AT state is large. 【0138】 --Special stage (Second section): First notification process-- FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a presentation in a special stage. As shown in FIG. 9, the special stage is composed of a predetermined number of games (five games in this embodiment). In this embodiment, in a plurality of games constituting the special stage, the first notification process notifies a first presentation that can suggest that the advantageous zone may end by executing the second process. As a specific example, the first presentation is a presentation related to the content of "Can the game character clear the mission?" The first presentation is notified in each game before the last game of the predetermined number of games (the first presentation is notified in the first to fourth games). The first presentation is a presentation that indirectly suggests that the advantageous zone may end by making it a presentation that is notified only in the second zone, but may also be a presentation that directly suggests that the advantageous zone may end, such as "the advantageous zone may end". In this embodiment, the first presentation is made different depending on the expectation of determining that the advantageous zone will end in the second process. Specifically, the first presentation is a presentation related to whether the game character can clear the mission or not, and notifies a presentation related to the mission clear. For example, in the second game, in the performance related to "Did you tie your shoelaces properly?", if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively high, a performance of the shoelaces being properly tied is notified, whereas if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively low, a performance of the shoelaces not being properly tied is notified. Similarly, in the third game, in the performance related to "standing position when shooting", if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively high, a performance of the standing position being close to the goal is notified, whereas if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively low, a performance of the standing position being far from the goal is notified. Similarly, in the fourth game, in the performance related to "holding one's foot when shooting", if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively high, a performance of holding one's foot well is notified, whereas if the expectation of the advantageous zone being determined to be over is relatively low, a performance of slipping when holding one's foot well is notified. 【0139】 --Special stage (Second section): Second process-- As shown in FIG. 8, the second process is executed only in the special stage (second section), and is not executed in sections other than the special stage (first section). In this embodiment, the second process is repeatedly executed in each game in the second section until it is determined that the advantageous section is to be ended. The second process determines whether or not to end the advantageous section based on the second predetermined condition. The second predetermined condition used in the second process does not use a parameter related to the period of the advantageous section (the difference in the game value of the advantageous section). In contrast, the first predetermined condition (the forced end condition) used in the first process uses a parameter related to the period of the advantageous section (the difference in the game value of the advantageous section). In other words, unlike the first predetermined condition that is automatically established regardless of the player's operation by simply playing the game, the second predetermined condition does not use a parameter related to the period of the advantageous section, and it is possible to set the case where the second predetermined condition is established or not established depending on the player's operation, and the player may feel a sense of satisfaction that he or she has established the second predetermined condition by his or her own luck and ended the advantageous section. 【0140】 Specifically, the second process determines whether to end the advantageous zone based on the winning role or the winning role in the special stage. For example, when the first role such as a replay or a weak cherry is won or won, a lottery process is executed to determine whether to end the advantageous zone, and when the second role such as a strong cherry or a chance eye, which has a lower winning probability than the first role, is won or won, it is determined that the advantageous zone is ended. Also, for example, when the winning role is a push order role and the push order role is won because the operation mode of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is the operation mode of the push order role, a lottery process with a relatively high expectation is executed, and when the winning role is a push order role but the operation mode of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is different from the operation mode of the push order role, the lottery process with a relatively low expectation is executed, or the lottery process itself may not be executed. In this way, the winning role or the prize role is one of the second specified conditions, and the second specified condition does not use a parameter related to the duration of the advantageous zone, so that, as described above, the player may feel a sense of satisfaction in having fulfilled the second specified condition himself / herself and ended the advantageous zone. 【0141】 -The first benefit granted by the second process- FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the change of the game zone and the game state in a time series in the game progress in the first route and the second route. In this embodiment, the slot machine 1 is configured to be able to progress in the game in the first route and the second route, as shown in FIG. 8. The first route is a route to be taken when a transition to a special stage is decided in the first zone, and the advantageous zone is successfully ended in the special stage by the player's operation (the player's luck). The second route is a route that does not go through the special stage, when the difference in the game value in the advantageous zone reaches +2400 coins, the forced end condition is established, and the advantageous zone is forced to end. As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10(a), the main control unit 61 of the slot machine 1 is able to progress in the game in the first route, in which the advantageous zone ends and transitions to the normal zone based on the decision to end the advantageous zone in the second process, and then transitions to a new advantageous zone at a predetermined timing (in this embodiment, in the next game). In this embodiment, when the game moves to a new advantageous zone on the first route, the game becomes the first CZ, and in the first CZ, the game aims for the AT state with the first transition expectation (expectation of transition to the special game state: large). As shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 10(b) and FIG. 10(c), the main control unit 61 can proceed with the game on the second route in which the advantageous zone ends and transitions to the normal zone based on the establishment of the forced termination condition in the first process, and then transitions to a new advantageous zone. The game moves to a new advantageous zone on the second route shown in FIG. 10(b), transitions to the second CZ via the normal game state, and in the second CZ, the game aims for the AT state with the second transition expectation (expectation of transition to the special game state: small). In addition, when the game moves to a new advantageous zone on the second route shown in FIG. 10(c), the game becomes the third CZ, and in the third CZ, the game aims for the AT state with the third transition expectation (expectation of transition to the special game state: medium). Here, the second transition expectation degree and the third transition expectation degree may be the same, or the second transition expectation degree may be greater than the third transition expectation degree, but the first transition expectation degree is greater than both the second transition expectation degree and the third transition expectation degree. In other words, the new advantageous zone by the first route is in a state in which a first benefit that is more advantageous to the player than the new advantageous zone by the second route is given. 【0142】 --Special stage (Second section): Second notification process-- 9, the second notification process notifies a second effect related to the result of the decision made in the second process, when the decision is made in the second process. In this embodiment, the second effect is notified in the last game (the fifth game) of the predetermined number of games that constitute the special stage. As shown in FIG. 9, when it is determined in the second process that the advantageous zone will end, the second notification process uses the determination as a trigger to notify a success effect (a type of second effect) related to the end of the advantageous zone. In this embodiment, a shot is made. This success effect suggests the progress of the game on the first route shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10(a), and can be said to be an effect related to the possibility that the first benefit will be granted. The success effect in this embodiment is not an effect that directly suggests that the first benefit will be granted, but it may directly suggest the possibility that the first benefit will be granted. As shown in FIG. 9, when the second process determines that the advantageous zone will not end, the second notification process uses the determination as a trigger to notify a failure effect (a type of second effect) related to the continuation of the advantageous zone. In this embodiment, a failure effect is produced to indicate that the shot has failed. This failure effect suggests the possibility that the game will not progress along the first route shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10(a), and can be said to be an effect related to the possibility that the first benefit will not be granted. The failure effect in this embodiment is not an effect that directly suggests that the first benefit will not be granted, but may directly suggest the possibility that the first benefit will not be granted. 【0143】 <Flow of operation processing of slot machine 1> The flow of processing in the advantageous zone of the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the advantageous zone processing of the slot machine 1. This advantageous zone processing shows a part of the processing in the advantageous zone. The first processing shown in FIG. 8 is not shown in FIG. 11, but is executed in every game, and when a forced termination condition is met, such as the difference in the game value of the advantageous zone reaching 2400, the advantageous zone is terminated and transitioned to the normal zone. In the advantageous zone processing, in step ST1 shown in FIG. 11, the main control unit 61 judges whether the AT state has ended. If it is determined in step ST1 that the AT state has not ended (ST1: NO), the main control unit 61 continues to execute other processing of the advantageous zone. If it is determined in step ST1 that the AT state has ended (ST1: YES), the main control unit 61 executes a special stage entry determination process (second zone transition determination process) in the next step ST2, and determines whether to transition to the special stage. If it is determined in step ST2 that the special stage is not to be transitioned to (ST3: NO), the main control unit 61 continues to execute other processes in the advantageous zone. If it is determined in step ST2 that the special stage is to be transitioned to (ST3: YES), the main control unit 61 transitions from the first zone in the advantageous zone to the second zone (special stage). When the special stage is transitioned to, the execution of steps ST4 and ST5 is repeated for a predetermined number of games constituting the special stage (step ST6: NO). In step ST4, the performance control unit 630 notifies the first performance. In step ST5, the main control unit 61 executes a second process for determining whether or not to end the advantageous zone. Note that, if it is determined in the second process that the advantageous zone is to be ended, the execution of the second process is omitted in the special stage thereafter. If a predetermined number of games are executed in step ST6, and the special stage is to be ended (ST6: YES), in the next step ST7, it is determined whether or not the end of the advantageous zone has been determined. In step ST7, if it is determined that the advantageous zone has ended (ST7: YES), in the next step ST8, the performance control unit 630 notifies a successful performance, which is a type of the second performance.In the next step ST9, the main control unit 61 ends the advantageous zone and transitions to the normal zone, and transitions again to the third CZ of the new advantageous zone in the next game. On the other hand, if it is determined in step ST7 that the advantageous zone has not ended (ST7: NO), in the next step ST10, the performance control unit 630 notifies of a failure performance, which is a type of second performance. In the next step ST11, the main control unit 61 continues the advantageous zone without terminating it, and continues executing other processing of the advantageous zone. 【0144】 [1] 【0145】 As in this embodiment, the slot machine 1 (gaming machine) performs a process of progressing a game in one of game zones including a favorable zone in which processing related to the instruction function can be performed and a normal zone in which processing related to the instruction function cannot be performed, a first process of terminating a favorable zone during game progress when a first predetermined condition using a parameter related to the period of the favorable zone (the difference in game value in the favorable zone) that changes with the progress of the game in the favorable zone is satisfied, and a second process of terminating a favorable zone during game progress based on a second predetermined condition that does not use a parameter related to the period of the favorable zone (the difference in game value in the favorable zone). It may be possible to execute a second process for deciding whether or not to end the advantageous zone, a first notification process for notifying a first effect that may suggest that the advantageous zone may end by executing the second process, a process for transitioning the play zone from the advantageous zone to a normal zone when it is decided in the second process to end the advantageous zone during play in progress, a process for continuing play in the advantageous zone during play in progress if it is decided in the second process not to end the advantageous zone during play in progress, and a second notification process for notifying a second effect (success effect, failure effect) related to the result of the decision in the second process when it is decided in the second process. 【0146】 <Effects of the Invention> According to this embodiment, in a state where the first predetermined condition using the parameter (the difference in the game value in the advantageous zone) related to the period of the advantageous zone is not satisfied, the player can know that the end of the advantageous zone may be determined by the second process by the notification of the first performance, and the player can know the result of the determination by the second process by the second notification. Since the advantageous zone ends based on a separate second predetermined condition, rather than the usual first predetermined condition, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that a benefit may be given, since it is different from normal operation. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine with a new game nature by a new notification that can give the player a sense of expectation that a unique development obtained at the time of resetting the advantageous zone will occur by actively causing the end of the advantageous zone by oneself. 【0147】 [2] In the gaming machine described in [1] above, an internal winning process for determining a winning role among a plurality of roles and a process for awarding a number of game values ​​according to the winning role are executable, and the second predetermined condition may include a condition using the winning role or the winning role. According to this configuration, the conditions using the winning or prize winning role can be said to be conditions that depend on the player's operation, so by actively bringing about the end of the advantageous zone, it may be possible to give the player a sense of anticipation that a unique development that occurs when the advantageous zone is reset will occur. 【0148】 [3] In the gaming machine described in [1] or [2] above, the advantageous zone may include a first zone in which the second processing is not executed and a second zone (special stage) in which the second processing can be executed, and upon transition from the first zone to the second zone (special stage), one condition selected from the multiple conditions may become the second predetermined condition. According to this configuration, it is possible to provide variation to the second predetermined condition, which may make the game more interesting. Specifically, the following example can be mentioned: As one example, a plurality of candidates for the second predetermined condition (conditions A to D) are stored in advance, and one condition is selected as the second predetermined condition when entering a special stage. Also, a different condition may be selected each time a special stage is entered, improving the playability of the game. As an example, a condition to be the second predetermined condition may be selected from a plurality of conditions according to a set value. Also, the candidate conditions may include conditions with different levels of difficulty to achieve, and a condition with a level of difficulty to achieve corresponding to the set value may be selected. For example, the selection probability of each condition may be assigned so that the condition that is easier to achieve is selected as the set value is a relatively high value of the expected value of ball output. For example, as candidate conditions, there are condition A of drawing a cherry once, condition B of winning a bell twice, and condition C of winning a combination of a specific color pattern such as blue twice in a row. In order of decreasing difficulty to achieve, the easiest conditions are condition A, condition B, and condition C. In other words, the higher the set value is the relatively high value of the expected value of ball output, the more likely condition A is to be selected. Also, conversely, the higher the set value is the relatively high value of the expected value of ball output, the more difficult the condition is to be selected as the selection probability of each condition may be assigned. 【0149】 [4] In a gaming machine described in any of [1] to [3] above, it is possible to execute a game progress along a first route in which the advantageous zone ends and transitions to a normal zone based on a determination of the end of the advantageous zone in a second process, and then transitions to a new advantageous zone, and a game progress along a second route in which the advantageous zone ends and transitions to a normal zone based on the establishment of a first predetermined condition in the first process, and then transitions to a new advantageous zone, and the new advantageous zone by the first route is in a state in which a first benefit that is more advantageous to the player is granted compared to the new advantageous zone by the second route. With this configuration, an increasing number of players will wish to progress through the second route, and by actively bringing about the end of the advantageous zone themselves, players can be given the expectation that a unique development that can be obtained when the advantageous zone is reset will occur. 【0150】 [5] In the gaming machine described in [4] above, the second presentation that is notified when it is determined in the second process that the advantageous zone is to end may be a presentation (success presentation) regarding the possibility of the first benefit being granted. According to this configuration, by notifying the second performance, it may be possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the first benefit may be granted. 【0151】 [6] In the gaming machine described in [4] above, the second presentation that is notified when it is decided in the second process not to end the advantageous zone may be a presentation regarding the possibility that the first benefit will not be granted. According to this configuration, by not notifying the second performance, it may be possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the first benefit may be provided. 【0152】 [7] In the gaming machines described in [1] to [6] above, the advantageous zone may include a first zone in which the second processing is not executed, and a second zone (special stage) consisting of a predetermined number of games and in which the second processing can be executed, and the second presentation may be announced when the predetermined number of games constituting the second zone (special stage) have been played. According to this configuration, it is possible to clearly convey effects such as the first effect in the second section to the player. 【0153】 [8] In the gaming machine described in [1] to [7] above, the advantageous zone includes a first zone in which the second process is not executed, and a second zone (special stage) that is composed of a predetermined number of games and in which the second process can be executed; When it is decided in the second process to end the advantageous zone during game play, it may be possible to transition the game zone from the advantageous zone to a normal zone upon completion of a predetermined number of games that constitute the second zone (special stage). According to this configuration, the advantageous period ends after a predetermined number of games that make up the second period (special stage) have been played, so it may be possible to give the player a long-term sense of anticipation that the advantageous period may end in the second period. 【0154】 [Other embodiments] The various control means and processing procedures described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. The various control means and processing procedures can be appropriately modified in design without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 【0155】 (A) In this embodiment, the difference in game value in the advantageous zone (the difference in number of coins acquired or the difference in number of coins remaining) is given as an example of a parameter related to the period of the advantageous zone, but this is not limited to this. For example, the number of games played in the advantageous zone may be used as a parameter related to the period of the advantageous zone. In addition, a value that determines the period of the advantageous zone may be used. 【0156】 (B) In this embodiment, the special gaming state (AT state) is a game number management type, and the parameter related to the period of the special gaming state is the number of remaining games in the AT state or the number of additional games added to the remaining number of games, but is not limited to this. The parameter related to the period of the special gaming state may be, for example, a value based on the difference in the number of sheets in a difference number management type AT state, or a value based on the number of times that the instruction function can be executed in the AT state. When there are multiple types of special gaming states, the parameter related to the period of the special gaming state may be changed according to the type of special gaming state. For example, a special gaming state in which the number of games is the parameter related to the period of the special gaming state, and a special gaming state in which a value based on the difference in the number of sheets is the parameter related to the period of the special gaming state may be included. 【0157】 <Timing of announcement for the second performance> (C) In this embodiment, the second presentation is announced at the final game or at the end of the final game after a predetermined number of games constituting the second section (special stage) have been played, but is not limited to this. For example, as one example, the second performance may be notified when a specific condition is satisfied during the second section. The specific condition is winning the lottery process for determining whether or not to notify. For example, the lottery process for determining whether or not to notify may be executed once for each game in a predetermined number of games, and a winning probability may be assigned to each game, and the winning probabilities may be assigned so that the total of the winning probabilities of each of the predetermined number of games is 100%. The winning probabilities assigned to each game may all be uniform, or all may be different, or at least two winning probabilities may be the same, or at least two winning probabilities may be different. As one example, a reel lock lottery process or a freeze lottery process may be executed in each game constituting the second section, and the second performance may be announced in the event of a win. In this case, the second performance may be announced without fail if no win is won until the last game constituting the second section, or may be announced in the next game after the end of the second section if no win is won until the last game constituting the second section. As one example, a lottery process based on a winning combination or a prize-winning combination may be executed, and the second performance may be notified in the case of a win. The second performance may be always notified in the case of no winning until the last game constituting the second section, or may be notified in the next game after the end of the second section in the case of no winning until the last game constituting the second section. Whether to notify the second performance may be determined based on the winning combination or the prize-winning combination. For example, the second performance may be notified in the case of a winning or prize-winning rare combination. 【0158】 <Conditions for transition to the second section> (D) In ​​this embodiment, the lottery process is performed based on the difference in number of coins obtained in the advantageous zone at the end of the AT state or the remaining difference in number of coins, but is not limited to this. For example, as one example, a transition to the second zone may be triggered when the points accumulated during the favorable zone reach a predetermined number of points. Also, a lottery process may be executed to determine whether or not to transition to the second zone depending on the number of points accumulated during the favorable zone, and transition to the second zone may be made if the lottery is won. The number of points may be the number of points accumulated in the AT state during the favorable zone, the number of points accumulated in the non-AT state during the favorable zone, or the number of points accumulated in the non-AT state and the AT state during the favorable zone. As one example, a transition to the second zone may be triggered by acquiring a predetermined game medium such as a predetermined item during the advantageous zone (only in the AT state, only in the non-AT state, or both in the non-AT state and the AT state). Also, a lottery process may be executed to determine whether or not to transition to the second zone depending on game media such as an item acquired during the advantageous zone (only in the AT state, only in the non-AT state, or both in the non-AT state and the AT state), and a transition to the second zone may be made if the lottery is won. As one example, a probability of transition to the second zone may be associated with each of multiple types of game media, such as acquireable items, and the multiple types of game media may include at least two types of game media with different probabilities of transition to the second zone. A lottery process may be executed to determine whether or not to transition to the second zone based on the probability of transition to the second zone corresponding to the acquired game medium, and if a winning entry is made, a transition to the second zone may be made. As one example, there may be multiple types of presentation scenarios that can be notified in the AT state, and a transition to the second section may be triggered when a specific presentation scenario is selected from the multiple types of presentation scenarios. As one example, a transition to the second section may be triggered when the number of games played in a day reaches a predetermined value. 【0159】 (E) In this embodiment, the transition to the second section is triggered by the end of the AT state in the advantageous section, but is not limited to this. For example, the transition may be from a non-AT state to the second section in the advantageous section. As a specific example, even if the AT state ends, the transition may not be made to the second section, but may be made to a non-AT state (general game state or CZ), and then from that non-AT state to the second section. 【0160】 (F) In this embodiment, the timing of the notification of the second effect is the last game constituting the second section or the time when the last game has ended, but is not limited thereto. For example, the timing of the notification of the second effect may be before the last game constituting the second section is reached. Also, the timing of the notification of the second effect may be the next game in the second section that is determined by the second processing to end the advantageous section. In that case, the second section may end even if the predetermined number of games in the second section has not been played (even if there is a number of games remaining) at the time when the second effect is notified. 【0161】 (G) In this embodiment, when it is determined in the second process that the favorable zone is to be ended, the favorable zone is ended and a transition is made to the first CZ in the new favorable zone, but this is not limited to this. For example, when it is determined in the second process that the favorable zone is to be ended, the favorable zone may be ended and a transition may be made from the AT state in the new favorable zone. 【0162】 (H) In this embodiment, the second effect is not limited to video or sound, and can be changed in various ways. For example, the second effect may be a freeze effect or a reel effect using a pseudo game (such as a reel spinning backwards). 【0163】 (I) In this embodiment, the advantageous zone is divided into a first zone and a second zone, but it does not have to be divided into a first zone and a second zone. 【0164】 (J) In this embodiment, the second performance related to the determination result of the second process may be a success performance that is notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is to end, or a failure performance that is notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is not to end, but is not limited to this and may be either one or the other. Specifically, the second performance may be notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is to end, but may not be notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is not to end. Also, the second performance may not be notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is to end, and may be notified when it is determined that the advantageous zone is not to end. 【0165】 (K) In this embodiment, the first benefit is to increase the transition expectation of the AT state, but is not limited to this. For example, instead of the transition expectation of the AT state, it may be to increase the transition expectation from the general game state to the CZ, or it may be to determine the transition to the AT state instead of increasing the transition expectation of the AT state and the CZ. In this embodiment, the new advantageous zone according to the first route is in a state in which a first benefit that is more advantageous to the player than the new advantageous zone according to the second route is given, but is not limited to this. For example, the new advantageous zone according to the first route may be in a state in which a first benefit that is more advantageous to the player than the new advantageous zone according to the second route is not given. 【0166】 (L) As one example, the probability of transition to the special stage (second section) may have a difference due to the setting value or a tendency related to the setting value. For example, the higher the setting value is for the expected value of ball output (high setting), the more likely it is that transition to the special stage will be determined. Also, transition to the special stage may be more likely to be determined when the setting value is an odd number than when it is an even number. Conversely, transition to the special stage may be more likely to be determined when the setting value is an even number than when it is an odd number. As one example, the transition to the special stage (second section) may not be determined by a lottery process, but may be determined, for example, by transitioning to the special stage (second section) every time the AT state ends. 【0167】 The bet switch 41 may be provided with a MAX bet switch for automatically betting the above-mentioned predetermined number of gaming values ​​(e.g., 3 coins), and a bet switch for betting a gaming value less than the above-mentioned predetermined number of gaming values ​​(e.g., 1 coin or 2 coins), separately. 【0168】 In the above embodiment, the bet switch 41 and the lever 42 are provided separately, but the lever 42 may also function as the bet switch 41 . 【0169】 In the above embodiment, the AT and the bonus are exemplified as advantageous gaming states, but the advantageous gaming state may include the ART. The CZ is a gaming state in which the probability of entering the AT and the probability of replaying are higher than in the case of not being the CZ. The ART is a gaming state in which the probability of replaying is higher than in the general gaming state and the correct operation mode of the operation mode role is notified. The probability of entering at least one of the AT, CZ, and ART may change depending on the setting value. The performance of the AT, CZ, and ART may change depending on the setting value. 【0170】 In addition to images, the effects suggesting the setting value may also include special patterns that can be seen through the reel window 200 when the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c is stopped. 【0171】 In the above embodiment, the gaming machine is an AT type slot machine. However, the gaming machine may be an ART type slot machine or other type of machine other than the AT type. In addition, the gaming machine is not limited to a slot machine, and may be a pachinko machine. 【0172】 In the above embodiment, the gaming machine is a medal-less machine. However, the gaming machine is not limited to a medal-less machine, and may be a conventional slot machine that uses real medals. 【0173】 In the above embodiment, the card unit 9 and the slot machine 1 are separate from each other. However, at least a part of the functions of the card unit 9 may be provided in the slot machine 1. 【0174】 Even when these other embodiments are adopted, the effects of the present embodiment are exhibited. In addition, the present embodiment can be appropriately combined with other embodiments, and other embodiments can be appropriately combined with each other. [Explanation of symbols] 【0175】 61: Main control section 630: Production Control Department

Claims

[Claim 1] A process of playing the game in one of the game sections, which includes a game section that includes an advantageous section in which processing related to the instruction function can be performed, and a normal section in which processing related to the instruction function cannot be performed, A first process is performed to terminate the advantageous period during gameplay when a first predetermined condition is met using a parameter relating to the duration of the advantageous period, which changes as the game progresses in the advantageous period. A second process that determines whether or not to terminate the advantageous period during gameplay based on a second predetermined condition that does not use parameters relating to the duration of the advantageous period, A first notification process that notifies a first performance that can suggest that the advantageous period may end as a result of the execution of the second process, In the second process, when it is decided to end the advantageous period during gameplay, a process is performed to transition the game period from the advantageous period to the normal period, If it is decided in the second process that the advantageous period during which the game is in progress will not be terminated, the process will be to continue playing in the advantageous period during which the game is in progress, A second notification process is performed to notify a second performance related to the decision result of the second process, triggered by the decision in the second process. This is feasible, The advantageous interval includes a first interval in which the second process is not performed, and a second interval in which the second process can be performed. The aforementioned first section includes a general game state and a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the general game state, A gaming machine that can transition from the first section to the second section when the special game state ends.

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