Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of enhancing amusement of a game.SOLUTION: A performance display device can execute a transition destination determination performance by displaying a specific image. In the transition destination determination performance, an effect image indicating the degree of advantage for a player is displayed in conjunction with the display of the special image. A third effect image is displayed in conjunction with the display of a third special image. A fourth effect image is displayed in conjunction with the display of a fourth special image. The third special image and the third effect image may be displayed when the number of times the special image is displayed in one transition destination determination performance reaches a specific number. The fourth special image and the fourth effect image may be displayed when the number of times the special image is displayed in one transition destination determination performance is a first number less than the specific number, and a second number greater than the specific number.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, among pachinko gaming machines, which are a type of gaming machine, there are some that change the mode of a specific effect to entertain players. For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when an effect button is operated during the variation of an effect symbol, the effect mode is switched, and the type of image displayed as a preview at the time of mode switching can be changed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in such a gaming machine, when changing the mode of a specific effect, it is desired to improve the interest in the game by making further improvements.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The gaming machine that solves the above problems includes a display means capable of displaying an image and a display control means for controlling the display means. The display means is capable of executing a specific effect performed by displaying a special image. In the specific effect, the display mode of the special image may change, and the advantage information indicating the degree of advantage for the player may be presented. The advantage information includes first advantage information and second advantage information. The first advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific effect reaches a specific number. The gist is that the second advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific effect is a first number less than the specific number and a second number greater than the specific number.

Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest in the game.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front side), and back (back side) indicate the respective directions when viewed from the player. As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 as a gaming machine includes a frame body 11. The frame body 11 includes an installation frame 11a for fixing the pachinko gaming machine 10 to an island facility such as a game parlor, and a mounting frame 11b for mounting various gaming components. The mounting frame 11b is pivotally supported on one side edge of the opening of the installation frame 11a so as to be openable and closable with respect to the installation frame 11a. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a locking device 11c for locking the mounting frame 11b so that it is not opened. The locking device 11c is configured to be unlocked by inserting a key that fits the locking device 11c and rotating it in a predetermined direction, and to allow the mounting frame 11b to be opened.

[0009] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a firing handle HD that is operated by a player when firing a game ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a speaker Sp that outputs sound. The speaker Sp can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as voice notifications) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as voice effects) by outputting sounds such as music and sound effects. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a decorative lamp La having a light emitter (not shown). The decorative lamp La can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as light emissions) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as light effects) by turning on, blinking, and turning off the light emitter.

[0010] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an effect button D1 as an example of an operation means capable of performing a predetermined operation. In the present embodiment, the effect button D1 is a button-type means configured to enable a pressing operation. The effect button D1 is not limited to being button-type, and may be a touch sensor type, or may be configured to cause a predetermined display device to function as a touch panel type means.

[0011] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a game board YB. On the front side of the game board YB, a game area YBa where game balls can flow down is formed. In the present embodiment, the game balls launched by operating the launch handle HD reach the game area YBa. The game board YB includes an opening window YBb at a substantially central portion when viewed from the front. A center frame W with various designs is assembled to the opening window YBb.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an effect display device 12 having an image display unit GH capable of displaying an image. The effect display device 12 is assembled to the game board YB such that the image display unit GH is visible through the opening window YBb (center frame W) of the game board YB when viewed from the front. For example, the image display unit GH is a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The effect display device 12 can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as display notifications) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as display effects) by displaying various images. In the present embodiment, the effect display device 12 corresponds to a display means capable of displaying an image.

[0013] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an information display device 13 capable of displaying predetermined information. The information display device 13 is provided at a position visible to the player on the game board YB. The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display unit 13a. The first special symbol display unit 13a can execute a first special symbol variation game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and finally the first special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed as an example of a variation game in which the symbol is varied. The information display device 13 includes a second special symbol display unit 13b. The second special symbol display unit 13b can execute a second special symbol variation game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and finally the second special symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed as an example of a variation game in which the symbol is varied. The first special symbol and the second special symbol are symbols for notifying the result of a special winning lottery described later.

[0014] In the following description, the special winning lottery for the first special symbol is abbreviated as the "first special winning lottery", and the special winning lottery for the second special symbol is abbreviated as the "second special winning lottery". Also, the first special symbol variable game is abbreviated as the "first special game", and the second special symbol variable game is abbreviated as the "second special game". Further, the first special game and the second special game are collectively referred to as the "special game". In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of symbol being displayed changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed, and the type of symbol being displayed does not change. For a symbol, "fixed stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning.

[0015] The special symbols that can be derived in the first special symbol display unit 13a and the second special symbol display unit 13b include a jackpot symbol as a jackpot result and a losing symbol as a losing result. In the present embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In the present embodiment, when winning the jackpot in the special winning lottery, a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, and a jackpot game occurs after the end of the special game. The jackpot game will be described in detail later. On the other hand, when not winning the jackpot in the special winning lottery, a losing symbol is derived in the special game. That is, in the first special symbol display unit 13a and the second special symbol display unit 13b of the present embodiment, it is possible to execute a special game in which the special symbol is changed and stopped based on the result of the special winning lottery.

[0016] The information display device 13 includes a first special hold display unit 13c. The first special hold display unit 13c displays information that can identify the number of times of the first special game whose execution is on hold because the hold condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied. In the following description, the number of times of the first special game on hold is referred to as the "first special hold count". In the present embodiment, the maximum value of the first special hold count is "4". The information display device 13 includes a second special hold display unit 13d. The second special hold display unit 13d displays information that can identify the number of times of the second special game whose execution is on hold because the hold condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied. In the following description, the number of times of the second special game on hold is referred to as the "second special hold count". In the present embodiment, the maximum value of the second special hold count is "4".

[0017] The information display device 13 includes a normal symbol display unit 13e. The normal symbol display unit 13e can execute a normal symbol variation game in which a predetermined symbol is variably displayed and finally the normal symbol is fixedly stopped and displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of a normal lottery described later. In the following description, the normal symbol variation game is abbreviated as the "normal game". The normal symbols derivable on the normal symbol display unit 13e include a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In the present embodiment, when winning in the normal lottery, the normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and a normal winning game occurs after the end of the normal game.

[0018] The information display device 13 includes a normal hold display unit 13f. The normal hold display unit 13f displays information that can identify the number of times of the normal game whose execution is on hold because the hold condition is satisfied but the start condition is not yet satisfied. In the following description, the number of times of the normal game on hold is referred to as the "normal hold count". In the present embodiment, the maximum value of the normal hold count is "1". Note that each display unit in the information display device 13 does not have to be provided on one display device and may be provided in different parts. Further, the information display device 13 may include a right hitting display unit that displays information indicating so-called "right hitting" and a round display unit that notifies the upper limit number of times of a round game described later.

[0019] On the game board YB, a plurality of winning holes into which game balls can enter are formed. The plurality of winning holes open into the game area YBa. The plurality of winning holes include a first start winning hole 14, a second start winning hole 15, and a big winning hole 17. The plurality of winning holes may include winning holes different from these winning holes.

[0020] The first start winning hole 14 is a winning hole for entering a game ball to satisfy the condition for awarding prize balls and the hold condition for the first special game. As an example, the first start winning hole 14 is below the effect display device 12. The first start winning hole 14 is always open so that a game ball can enter. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a first start winning sensor SE1 for detecting a game ball that has entered the first start winning hole 14 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1, the hold condition for the first special game can be satisfied, and the payout condition for a predetermined number of prize balls is satisfied.

[0021] The second start winning hole 15 is a winning hole for entering a game ball to satisfy the condition for awarding prize balls and the hold condition for the second special game. As an example, the second start winning hole 15 is in the lower right of the effect display device 12. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a second start winning sensor SE2 for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start winning hole 15 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2, the hold condition for the second special game can be satisfied, and the payout condition for a predetermined number of prize balls is satisfied.

[0022] The pachinko game machine 10 includes a normal movable piece 16 that can take a first operating state in which a game ball cannot enter the second start winning hole 15 and a second operating state in which a game ball can enter the second start winning hole 15. The normal movable piece 16 is always in the first operating state and operates to the second operating state when a normal winning game occurs. That is, when a normal winning game occurs, the second start winning hole 15 can allow a game ball to enter. The game board YB includes a first solenoid SL1 as means for operating the normal movable piece 16 (see FIG. 3).

[0023] The large winning opening 17 is a winning opening for letting a game ball enter in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the large winning opening 17 is located at the lower right of the effect display device 12 and above the right of the second start winning opening 15. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a count sensor SE3 that detects a game ball that has entered the large winning opening 17 (see FIG. 3). Specifically, in the present embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the count sensor SE3, the conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls are satisfied.

[0024] The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a special opening / closing piece 18 that can take an open state in which the large winning opening 17 is opened so that a game ball can enter, and a closed state in which the large winning opening 17 is closed so that a game ball cannot enter. For example, the special opening / closing piece 18 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the large winning opening 17. The special opening / closing piece 18 is always in the closed state and operates to the open state when a special winning game occurs. That is, when a special winning game occurs, the large winning opening 17 is opened so that a game ball can enter. The game board YB includes a second solenoid SL2 as means for operating the special opening / closing piece 18 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, in a big winning game, the large winning opening 17 is opened, and when a game ball that has entered the large winning opening 17 is detected by the count sensor SE3, the conditions for awarding prize balls are satisfied. That is, in the present embodiment, in a big winning game, it is possible to obtain a game ball as a prize ball.

[0025] The game board YB includes a gate 25. As an example, the gate 25 is above the large winning opening 17. The gate 25 is always opened so that a game ball can enter (pass through). The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a gate sensor SE4 that detects a game ball that has entered the gate 25 (see FIG. 3). The gate 25 is a winning opening for letting a game ball enter in order to satisfy the start conditions of a normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate 25, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not satisfied.

[0026] Next, in the present embodiment, the path along which the game balls flow will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above has a plurality of paths for the pachinko balls to flow down in the game area YBa, which are paths corresponding to the firing intensity of the pachinko balls. The path for the pachinko balls to flow down can also be regarded as the area where the pachinko balls flow down. Among the plurality of paths, there are a first path that flows down the left side of the center frame W (the effect display device 12) and a second path that flows down the right side of the center frame W (the effect display device 12). The first path and the second path may partially overlap or may not completely overlap. In the following description, when the game board YB is viewed from the front, the area located on the left side of the center line that bisects the game area YBa left and right is referred to as the left area, and the area located on the right side of the center line is referred to as the right area. That is, in the present embodiment, the path that flows down the left area is the first path, and the path that flows down the right area is the second path.

[0027] The player can distribute the pachinko balls to the left area and the right area by operating the firing handle HD to adjust the firing intensity of the pachinko balls. On the first path (left area), the first start winning opening 14 is open. Therefore, when the firing intensity is adjusted to be weak and the pachinko balls are fired, the pachinko balls are likely to flow down the left area and may enter the first start winning opening 14. On the second path (right area), in order from upstream, the gate 25, the big winning opening 17, and the second start winning opening 15 are open. Therefore, when the firing intensity is adjusted to be strong and the pachinko balls are fired, the pachinko balls are likely to flow down the right area and may enter the second start winning opening 15, the big winning opening 17, or the gate 25.

[0028] In the following description, firing the pachinko balls toward the left area may be referred to as "left hitting". Also, in the following description, firing the pachinko balls toward the right area may be referred to as "right hitting".

[0029] Next, the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment includes a non-time-saving state and a time-saving state as a plurality of gaming states with different degrees of advantage for the player. In the present embodiment, the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state are gaming states with different average fluctuation times of special games. Specifically, the time-saving state of the present embodiment is a state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter than that of the non-time-saving state. Further, in the present embodiment, the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state are gaming states with different probabilities of a game ball entering the second start winning opening 15. Specifically, the time-saving state of the present embodiment is a state in which the probability of a game ball entering the second start winning opening 15 is higher than that of the non-time-saving state. In other words, in the present embodiment, the time-saving state is a state in which the ball entry rate of the game ball into the second start winning opening 15 is improved as compared with the non-time-saving state.

[0030] For example, the ball entry rate of the game ball into the second start winning opening 15 can be improved by performing any one of the three controls described below, or by combining a plurality of controls. The first control is a control for shortening the fluctuation time of the normal symbol by shortening the fluctuation time of the normal game. The second control is a control for varying the probability of winning a normal hit (normal winning probability) in the normal lottery to a high probability in the normal symbol. The third control is a control for extending the total operation time for which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal winning game. The operation time extension control may be at least one of a control for increasing the number of operations for which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal winning game and a control for lengthening the operation time for one operation when the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in the normal winning game.

[0031] In particular, in the present embodiment, the operation time for which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state in one normal winning game when in the non-time-saving state is a time short enough that the game ball cannot substantially enter the second start winning opening 15. For this reason, in the present embodiment, in the non-time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to fire the game ball into the left region than to fire the game ball into the right region. That is, it can be said that the non-time-saving state is a gaming state in which left-handed shooting is recommended.

[0032] On the one hand, in this embodiment, the operation time for the normal movable piece 16 to operate in the second operation state in one normal winning game when in the time-saving state is long enough for the game ball to enter the second starting winning opening 15 sufficiently. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player when the game ball is launched into the right area than when it is launched into the left area. That is, it can be said that the time-saving state is a game state in which right-handed shooting is recommended.

[0033] Next, the jackpot in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment includes a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special symbol jackpot symbols. The types of jackpot symbols are also the types of jackpots. The jackpot symbols are classified into one or a plurality of types. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is provided according to the type of jackpot symbol (type of jackpot).

[0034] In the jackpot game, first, a predetermined performance is performed over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the opening time). For example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that can identify the start of the jackpot game. In the jackpot game, after the elapse of the opening time, a round game for opening the big winning opening 17 is performed with a predetermined upper limit number of times as the upper limit. One round game ends when a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter or when a predetermined upper limit time elapses. In the round game, the big winning opening 17 is opened in a predetermined opening mode (opening pattern). In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, a predetermined performance is performed over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the ending time). For example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that can identify the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends with the elapse of the ending time.

[0035] In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, after the end of the jackpot game, it is determined to control the time shortening state until the end of a special game of a predetermined number of operations (100 times in the present embodiment) or until the next jackpot game is awarded.

[0036] Next, the effect symbol variation game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. In the present embodiment, the effect display device 12 can execute an effect symbol variation game in which a plurality of columns of effect symbols are variably displayed and finally a combination of effect symbols is derived. In the following description, the effect symbol variation game is abbreviated as "effect game". Also, in the following description, the special game and the effect game may be collectively referred to as "variation game". The effect symbols are symbols (decorative symbols) decorated with decorations such as characters and patterns, and are for diversifying the display effects. In the present embodiment, the effect game is performed by variably displaying (scroll-displaying) the symbol columns of the first column, the second column, and the third column in a predetermined direction.

[0037] The effect game starts with the start of the special game and ends with the end of the special game. Also, in the effect game, a reach effect may be executed. The reach effect is an effect executed in a state where the same effect symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed (hereinafter referred to as "once stopped and displayed") in a plurality of specific symbol columns, and the effect symbols continue to be variably displayed in other symbol columns. In the present embodiment, the specific symbol columns are the first column and the third column.

[0038] Specifically, in the effect game, after the effect symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed (hereinafter referred to as "once stopped and displayed") in each symbol column of the first to third columns, the effect symbols that are once stopped and displayed in each symbol column are definitely stopped and displayed, thereby deriving a combination of effect symbols. In the effect game, a combination of effect symbols corresponding to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. Specifically, when a jackpot symbol (jackpot result) is derived in the special game, a symbol combination of a jackpot by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. Also, when a losing symbol (losing result) is derived in the special game, a symbol combination of a loss by the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. The symbol combinations of losses include a symbol combination of a losing reach in which the effect symbols of a specific symbol column are the same effect symbols, and a normal losing symbol combination in which the effect symbols of a specific symbol column are different effect symbols.

[0039] Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 40. The main control board 40 performs various processes and outputs a control signal such as a control command, which is an example of control information, according to the result of the process. The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50 are connected so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 50. The sub-control board 50 executes a predetermined process based on the control signal input from the main control board 40.

[0040] The main control board 40 will be described in detail. The main control board 40 includes a microprocessor 41. The microprocessor 41 includes a processing unit (hereinafter referred to as "main control CPU 41a") and a storage unit (memory). The main control CPU 41a executes various processes by executing a program for main control. The storage unit of the microprocessor 41 includes a ROM area (hereinafter referred to as "main control ROM 41b") in which information can be read but writing is not possible, and a RAM area (hereinafter referred to as "main control RAM 41c") in which information can be read and written.

[0041] The main control ROM 41b stores determination values, tables, etc. used for various determinations and lotteries. The main control ROM 41b stores multiple types of variation patterns. The variation pattern is variation information that can specify the content of the variation game. In particular, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is information that can specify the variation time from the start to the end of the special game. The variation pattern may be information that can specify the content of the effects performed during the execution of the special game. For example, the variation patterns in this embodiment include a variation pattern for a big win and a variation pattern for a loss. Also, in this embodiment, among the variation patterns for a loss, there are a variation pattern for a losing reach that can specify the content of the effect including the reach effect as the content of the effect during the execution of the special game, and a normal losing variation pattern that can specify the content of the effect not including the reach effect.

[0042] The main control RAM 41c stores various information that can be rewritten according to the results of processing by the main control CPU 41a. In this embodiment, the main control RAM 41c corresponds to a storage means for storing various information related to the game. For example, the information stored in the main control RAM 41c includes flags, counters, and timers. The microprocessor 41 is provided with a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The microprocessor 41 may be able to generate software random numbers by random number generation processing by the main control CPU 41a. Note that the main control CPU 41a, the main control ROM 41b, and the main control RAM 41c are not limited to being configured as one chip as the microprocessor 41, and may be configured separately.

[0043] The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first start winning sensor SE1, the second start winning sensor SE2, the count sensor SE3, and the gate sensor SE4. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input the detection signals output when each sensor detects a game ball. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the information display device 13. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display content of the information display device 13.

[0044] The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first solenoid SL1 and the second solenoid SL2. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by controlling the first solenoid SL1. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the special opening / closing piece 18 by controlling the second solenoid SL2.

[0045] Next, the sub-control board 50 will be described in detail. The sub-control board 50 includes a sub-control CPU 50a, a sub-control ROM 50b, and a sub-control RAM 50c. The sub-control CPU 50a performs various processes related to the effect by executing a program for sub-control. The sub-control ROM 50b stores a sub-control program, determination values used for a predetermined lottery, and the like. The sub-control ROM 50b stores display effect data used for display effects, light emission effect data used for light emission effects, and voice effect data used for voice effects.

[0046] The sub-control RAM 50c stores various information that can be rewritten during the operation of the pachinko game machine 10. For example, the information stored in the sub-control RAM 50c includes flags, counters, and timers. In the present embodiment, the sub-control board 50 is also configured to be able to generate software random numbers by a random number generation process by the sub-control CPU 50a. Note that the sub-control board 50 may include a random number generation circuit and be able to generate hardware random numbers.

[0047] The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the effect display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the display content of the effect display device 12. That is, in the present embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a functions as display control means for controlling the display means. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the decorative lamp La. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp La. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the speaker Sp. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker Sp. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the effect button D1. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to input an operation signal (on signal) output when the effect button D1 is operated.

[0048] Next, various processes (controls) executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described. First, the special symbol input process will be described. In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 41a determines whether a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 14. At this time, the main control CPU 41a determines that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 14 by inputting a detection signal from the first start winning sensor SE1. When a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 14, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the first special hold number stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the first special hold number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a adds 1 to the first special hold number stored in the main control RAM 41c and updates it. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the information display device 13 to display the updated first special hold number. Thus, in the present embodiment, when the first special hold number is less than the upper limit number, a game ball enters the first start winning opening 14, and the entered game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1, whereby the hold condition for the first special game is satisfied. Also, at this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a first hold number command that can specify the first special hold number stored in the main control RAM 41c and sets it in the output buffer. In the present embodiment, the command set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control CPU 50a in a predetermined output process.

[0049] Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires the random numbers generated within the main control board 40, and stores the random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. For example, the random numbers are winning random numbers, big win symbol random numbers, variable pattern random numbers, and the like. At this time, the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it can be specified that the random number information is for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or may be information obtained by processing the random numbers by a predetermined method. In the present embodiment, by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 41c, the execution of the first special game can be suspended until the start condition of the first special game is satisfied. That is, in the present embodiment, when the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information for the first special game in the main control RAM 41c, the execution of the first special game can be suspended when the suspension condition of the first special game is satisfied.

[0050] Also, when no game balls have entered the first start winning opening 14 and when the first special hold count is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a determines whether a game ball has entered the second start winning opening 15. At this time, the main control CPU 41a determines that a game ball has entered the second start winning opening 15 by inputting a detection signal from the second start winning sensor SE2. When no game balls have entered the second start winning opening 15, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, when a game ball has entered the second start winning opening 15, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). When the second special hold count is not less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, when the second special hold count is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a adds 1 to the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 41c and updates it. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the information display device 13 to display the updated second special hold count. Thus, in this embodiment, when the second special hold count is less than the upper limit number, a game ball enters the second start winning opening 15, and the entered game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2, whereby the hold condition for the second special game is satisfied. Also, at this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a second hold count command that can specify the second special hold count stored in the main control RAM 41c and sets it in the output buffer.

[0051] Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires the random numbers generated within the main control board 40, and stores the random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. At this time, the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information such that it is possible to identify that the random number information is for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. In the present embodiment, by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 41c, the execution of the second special game can be suspended until the start condition of the second special game is satisfied. That is, in the present embodiment, when the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information for the second special game in the main control RAM 41c, the execution of the second special game can be suspended upon the satisfaction of the suspension condition of the second special game. Thereafter, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol input process.

[0052] Next, the special symbol start process will be described. In the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the start condition of the special game is satisfied. The main control CPU 41a makes an affirmative determination when it is not during a big win game and not during the execution of the special game, while making a negative determination when it is during a big win game or during the execution of the special game. If the start condition of the special game is not satisfied, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process. If the start condition of the special game is satisfied, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the second special hold count is greater than zero. If the second special hold count is zero, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the first special hold count is greater than zero.

[0053] When the first special reservation number is zero, the main control CPU 41a determines whether an output-completed flag is set in a predetermined storage area in the main control RAM 41c. The output-completed flag is information that can identify that a standby state command that can identify the standby state has been output. The standby state is a state when no special game is being executed, no jackpot game is being awarded, and no special game is reserved. When the output-completed flag is not set, the main control CPU 41a generates a standby state command, outputs it to the sub-control CPU 50a, and sets the output-completed flag in the main control RAM 41c. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, when the output-completed flag is set, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process without newly generating a standby state command. In the following description, a period that is not in the standby state is referred to as a "game period." In other words, in the present embodiment, the game period is a period during which a special game is being executed or a jackpot game is being executed.

[0054] When the first special reservation number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 41a performs a process of executing the first special game. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a subtracts 1 from the first special reservation number and updates it. The main control CPU 41a controls the first special reservation display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reservation number. At this time, the main control CPU 41a also generates a first reservation number command that can identify the first special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 41c and sets it in the output buffer. Further, at this time, if the output-completed flag is set in the main control RAM 41c, the main control CPU 41a erases the output-completed flag.

[0055] Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires the earliest stored random number information among the random number information for the first special game from the main control RAM 41c. Subsequently, the main control CPU 41a performs a winning lottery (winning determination) on whether to win using the winning random number specified from the acquired random number information. As described above, all wins in the present embodiment are jackpot wins. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the winning lottery can be regarded as a jackpot lottery on whether to win the jackpot.

[0056] If a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 41a performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the main control CPU 41a conducts a jackpot symbol lottery using a jackpot symbol random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the jackpot symbol to be derived in the first special game. Also, the main control CPU 41a conducts a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the variation pattern for the jackpot. Thereafter, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start processing.

[0057] If a jackpot is not won, the main control CPU 41a performs losing variation processing. In the losing variation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines the losing symbol to be derived in the first special game. Also, the main control CPU 41a conducts a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the variation pattern for a loss. Thereafter, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start processing.

[0058] If the second special reserved number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 41a performs processing for executing the second special game. Since the processing for executing the second special game is the processing in which "the first special game" is replaced with "the second special game" and "the first special reserved number" is replaced with "the second special reserved number" with respect to the processing for executing the first special game, a detailed description thereof is omitted. That is, after the main control CPU 41a performs subtraction of the second special reserved number, generation of the second reserved number command, jackpot lottery, and any variation processing based on the result of the jackpot lottery, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start processing.

[0059] The main control CPU 41a outputs a variation start command and a special symbol command to the sub-control CPU 50a in jackpot variation processing and losing variation processing. The variation start command is a control command that can identify the variation pattern determined in each variation process and the start of a special game (production game). The special symbol command is a control command that can identify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in each variation process. Note that the variation start command and the special symbol command are different control commands when the variation process of the first special game is executed and when the variation process of the second special game is executed.

[0060] When the special symbol start process ends, the main control CPU 41a causes the first special game or the second special game to be executed by a process different from the special symbol start process. That is, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, when the start condition of the special game is satisfied, the main control CPU 41a performs the following processes to start the pending special game.

[0061] Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a causes the first special game to be executed, it controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to start the variable display of a predetermined symbol. The main control CPU 41a measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Further, when the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variation end command) that can identify the end of the special game (production game) to the sub-control CPU 50a.

[0062] On the other hand, when the main control CPU 41a executes the second special game, it controls the second special symbol display unit 13b to start the variable display of a predetermined symbol. The main control CPU 41a measures the variable time defined in the variable pattern. When the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a controls the second special symbol display unit 13b to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Also, when the variable time defined in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a outputs a variable end command to the sub-control CPU 50a.

[0063] Through the above-described processing, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to start the suspended variable game upon the establishment of the start condition. Next, the jackpot game process will be described.

[0064] The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the main control CPU 41a causes a jackpot symbol to be derived in the special game, it executes the jackpot game process after the end of the jackpot special game. The main control CPU 41a identifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (i.e., the type of jackpot) determined in the special symbol start process. The main control CPU 41a awards the identified type of jackpot game.

[0065] First, the main control CPU 41a outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time to the sub-control CPU 50a. When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a performs processing for executing a round game. That is, the main control CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 using the opening control data for the specified jackpot game to open the big winning port 17. When the number of game balls detected by the count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 to close the big winning port 17, thereby ending the round game. The main control CPU 41a repeatedly performs such processing for executing a round game until the round games up to the upper limit number defined for the jackpot game are completed. Each time the main control CPU 41a starts a round game, it outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) that can specify the start of the round game to the sub-control CPU 50a. When the final round game ends, the main control CPU 41a outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending command) that can specify the start of the ending time to the sub-control CPU 50a. When the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game. The main control CPU 41a may be configured to output a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) that can specify the elapse of the ending time to the sub-control CPU 50a.

[0066] Next, the processing for shifting the game state will be described. Upon the end of the big win game, the main control CPU 41a controls the game to enter the time-saving state by setting the operation flag stored in the main control RAM 41c to the ON state. After that, every time the main control CPU 41a starts a special game after the end of the big win game, it updates the value of the execution counter stored in the main control RAM 41c to count the number of times the special game is executed after the end of the big win game. When the special game whose execution count after the end of the big win game reaches the number of activation times ends, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls it to enter the non-time-saving state by setting the operation flag stored in the main control RAM 41c to the OFF state. That is, the main control CPU 41a ends the time-saving state and controls it to enter the non-time-saving state when the special game of the number of activation times ends after the end of the big win game. Also, upon the start of the big win game, the main control CPU 41a controls it to enter the non-time-saving state by setting the operation flag to the OFF state. That is, the main control CPU 41a controls it to enter the non-time-saving state during the big win game.

[0067] When the main control CPU 41a changes the game state, it generates a game state command that can identify the current game state and outputs it to the sub-control CPU 50a. In addition to the above-described processing, the main control CPU 41a performs the following processing. For example, the main control CPU 41a performs processing related to the normal symbol. In the processing related to the normal symbol, the main control CPU 41a performs processing such as inputting a detection signal from the gate sensor SE4, executing a normal lottery to determine whether it is a normal win, and starting a normal symbol variation game.

[0068] Next, various processes executed by the sub-control CPU 50a of the sub-control board 50 based on the sub-control program will be described. When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a control signal from the main control CPU 41a, it executes various processes according to the control signal.

[0069] First, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described. In the performance symbol variation process, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol command, it determines the combination of performance symbols to be derived in the performance game based on the special symbol specified from the special symbol command. When the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the jackpot symbol of the special symbol, it determines the symbol combination of the jackpot by the performance symbols. Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the losing symbol of the special symbol, it determines the combination of performance symbols to be derived in the performance game based on the variation pattern specified from the variation start command.

[0070] For example, when the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the jackpot symbol, it determines the symbol combination of the jackpot by the performance symbols. Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the losing symbol and identifies the variation pattern for losing reach, it determines the symbol combination of losing reach by the performance symbols. On the other hand, when the sub-control CPU 50a identifies the losing symbol and identifies the variation pattern for normal loss, it determines the symbol combination of normal loss by the performance symbols.

[0071] Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variation start command, it determines the performance to be executed during the execution of the special game based on the variation pattern specified from the input variation start command. In this embodiment, the determination ratio of the performance to be executed during the execution of the special game varies according to the variation pattern specified from the variation start command. Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La so as to execute the determined performance. In the following description, the performance display device 12, the speaker Sp, and the decorative lamp La may be collectively referred to as the "performance device group".

[0072] After that, upon receiving the input of the variation end command, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to end the effect game and derive the combination of the effect symbols. Note that the sub-control CPU 50a may start measuring the variation time upon receiving the input of the variation start command, and end the effect game when the variation time defined in the variation pattern specified from the variation start command has elapsed. That is, the end of the effect game may be controlled without outputting the variation end command from the main control board 40.

[0073] Next, the control regarding the jackpot game will be described. When the sub-control CPU 50a receives the opening command, it controls the effect device group to execute the opening effect among the effects during the jackpot game. Also, when the sub-control CPU 50a receives the round command, it controls the effect device group to execute the round effect among the effects during the jackpot game. Further, when the sub-control CPU 50a receives the ending command, it controls the effect device group to perform the ending effect among the effects during the jackpot game.

[0074] Next, the effects executable in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment will be described together with the control by the sub-control CPU 50a. The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment can execute various reach effects as reach effects. The reach effect of the present embodiment is an effect that suggests the probability (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot probability) that the ongoing variation game will result in a jackpot. Specifically, the reach effects of the present embodiment include a normal reach effect and a super reach effect. Further, the super reach effects of the present embodiment include a super reach effect A, a super reach effect B, a super reach effect C, a super reach effect D, and a special super reach effect.

[0075] When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a variation start command, it determines whether and what type of reach effect to execute based on the variation pattern specified from the variation start command. Specifically, when the variation pattern specified from the variation start command is an off-normal variation pattern, the sub-control CPU 50a does not determine to execute the reach effect. On the other hand, when the variation pattern specified from the variation start command is a jackpot variation pattern or an off-reach variation pattern, the sub-control CPU 50a determines to execute the reach effect and also determines the type of reach effect to be executed. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the type of reach effect to be executed at different determination ratios according to the type of the specified variation pattern.

[0076] Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the type of reach effect to be executed at different determination ratios when it specifies an off-reach variation pattern and when it specifies a jackpot variation pattern. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the type of reach effect to be executed based on the result of the ongoing variation game. Thereby, in this embodiment, it is possible to vary the jackpot expectation suggested when a predetermined reach effect is executed.

[0077] In this embodiment, the super reach effect has a higher jackpot expectation suggested than the normal reach effect. Also, each super reach effect has a different suggested jackpot expectation. Specifically, in this embodiment, the suggested jackpot expectation increases in the order of super reach effect A < super reach effect B < super reach effect C < super reach effect D < special super reach effect. In particular, when the sub-control CPU 50a specifies an off-reach variation pattern, it does not determine the special super reach effect as the reach effect to be executed, while when it specifies a jackpot variation pattern, it can determine the special super reach effect as the reach effect to be executed. That is, in this embodiment, the special super reach effect is a reach effect for confirmed jackpot.

[0078] In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is capable of executing a transition destination determination effect that indicates the type of reach effect to be executed. In the transition destination determination effect of the present embodiment, special images corresponding to the types of reach effects are displayed one or more times. That is, in the present embodiment, the transition destination determination effect corresponds to a specific effect that displays special images. And in the transition destination determination effect of the present embodiment, the type of reach effect to be executed after the end of the transition destination determination effect is indicated by the type of the special image displayed last.

[0079] In the present embodiment, there are five types of special images that can be displayed in the transition destination determination effect. In other words, in the present embodiment, there are multiple types of display modes of special images. Specifically, the special images include a first special image that is an image imitating a dog character, a second special image that is an image imitating a pig character, and a third special image that is an image imitating a cat character. Also, the special images include a fourth special image that is an image imitating the characters of a dog, a pig, and a cat, and a fifth special image that includes an image imitating the character string "blessing" in addition to the image imitating the characters of a dog, a pig, and a cat.

[0080] The first special image is a special image corresponding to the super reach effect A. In the present embodiment, the first special image corresponds to the first display mode among the display modes of the special images. The second special image is a special image corresponding to the super reach effect B. In the present embodiment, the second special image corresponds to the second display mode among the display modes of the special images. The third special image is a special image corresponding to the super reach effect C. In the present embodiment, the third special image corresponds to the third display mode among the display modes of the special images. The fourth special image is a special image corresponding to the super reach effect D. In the present embodiment, the fourth special image corresponds to the fourth display mode among the display modes of the special images. The fifth special image is a special image corresponding to the special super reach effect. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it can be said that each special image is a special image with a higher degree of advantage in the order of the first special image < the second special image < the third special image < the fourth special image < the fifth special image.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 4, the sub-control ROM 50b of the present embodiment stores a plurality of types of production patterns that define the types and order of special images displayed in the transition destination determination production. The first production pattern is a production pattern that defines displaying a special image once. In the first production pattern, the first special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the first time.

[0082] The second production pattern, the fourth production pattern, and the seventh production pattern are production patterns that define displaying a special image twice. For example, in the second production pattern, the first special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the first time, and the second special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the second time.

[0083] The third production pattern, the fifth production pattern, the eighth production pattern, and the ninth production pattern are production patterns that define displaying a special image three times. For example, in the third production pattern, the first special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the first time, the second special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the second time, and the third special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the third time.

[0084] The sixth production pattern and the tenth production pattern are production patterns that define displaying a special image four times. For example, in the sixth production pattern, the first special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the first time, the second special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the second time, the third special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the third time, and the fourth special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the fourth time.

[0085] The eleventh production pattern is a production pattern that defines displaying a special image five times. For example, in the eleventh production pattern, the first special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the first time, the second special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the second time, the third special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the third time, the fourth special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the fourth time, and the fifth special image is defined as the special image to be displayed for the fifth time.

[0086] Since the first performance pattern is such that the first special image corresponding to the super reach performance A is displayed last, it is a performance pattern indicating that the super reach performance A is executed. That is, the first performance pattern is a performance pattern that can be determined when the execution of the super reach performance A is determined. Since the second performance pattern is such that the second special image corresponding to the super reach performance B is displayed last, it is a performance pattern indicating that the super reach performance B is executed. That is, the second performance pattern is a performance pattern that can be determined when the execution of the super reach performance B is determined. Since the third performance pattern is such that the third special image corresponding to the super reach performance C is displayed last, it is a performance pattern indicating that the super reach performance C is executed. That is, the third performance pattern is a performance pattern that can be determined when the execution of the super reach performance C is determined.

[0087] Since the fourth to sixth performance patterns are such that the fourth special image corresponding to the super reach performance D is displayed last, they are performance patterns indicating that the super reach performance D is executed. That is, the fourth to sixth performance patterns are performance patterns that can be determined when the execution of the super reach performance D is determined. Since the seventh to eleventh performance patterns are such that the fifth special image corresponding to the special super reach performance is displayed last, they are performance patterns indicating that the special super reach performance is executed. That is, the seventh to eleventh performance patterns are performance patterns that can be determined when the execution of the special super reach performance is determined.

[0088] According to such a presentation pattern, in the destination determination presentation, when the special image is first displayed, the first special image is displayed. Also, according to such a presentation pattern, when the special image is displayed multiple times in the destination determination presentation, the types of special images displayed may be different between when it is displayed first and when it is displayed later. In other words, it can be said that in the destination determination presentation, the display mode of the special image may change. For example, in this embodiment, in one destination determination presentation, after the first special image is displayed, when the special image is displayed next, there are cases where the second special image is displayed, the fourth special image is displayed, and the fifth special image is displayed, while the first special image and the third special image are not displayed. In one destination determination presentation, after the second special image is displayed, when the special image is displayed next, there are cases where the third special image is displayed, the fourth special image is displayed, and the fifth special image is displayed, while the first special image and the second special image are not displayed. In one destination determination presentation, after the third special image is displayed, when the special image is displayed next, there is a case where the fourth special image is displayed, while the first special image, the second special image, the third special image, and the fifth special image are not displayed. In one destination determination presentation, after the fourth special image is displayed, when the special image is displayed next, there is a case where the fifth special image is displayed, while the first special image, the second special image, the third special image, and the fourth special image are not displayed. And in one destination determination presentation, after the fifth special image is displayed, no special image is displayed.

[0089] In this embodiment, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines the feasibility and type of the reach effect and the type of the destination determination effect based on the input of the variation start command, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the feasibility and type of the destination determination effect based on the determined content. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines to execute the super reach effect, it determines the feasibility of executing the destination determination effect by a predetermined lottery. Further, when the sub-control CPU 50a determines to execute the destination determination effect, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the effect pattern of the destination determination effect. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a determines any one of the effect patterns that can be determined according to the type of the reach effect for which execution has been determined. For example, when the execution of the super reach effect A is determined, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the first effect pattern as the effect pattern of the destination determination effect. Also, for example, when the execution of the special super reach effect is determined, the sub-control CPU 50a determines any one of the seventh to eleventh effect patterns as the effect pattern of the destination determination effect by a predetermined lottery. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute the destination determination effect with the effect content defined in the determined effect pattern.

[0090] With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the display mode of the destination determination effect will be described together with the control by the sub-control CPU 50a. In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to execute the destination determination effect after the symbol combination of the reach by the effect symbol is once stopped and displayed (FIG. 5(a)). In the destination determination effect, the sub-control CPU 50a first displays the specific image G10 on the entire image display portion GH of the effect display device 12 (FIG. 5(b)). That is, in this embodiment, the destination determination effect corresponds to a specific effect in which the specific image G10 is displayed. As an example, the specific image G10 is an image imitating the snowstorm screen of a cathode ray tube television. Further, the sub-control CPU 50a displays an operation instruction image G11 for prompting the operation of the effect button D1 along with the display of the specific image G10.

[0091] Thereafter, upon receiving an operation signal indicating that the effect button D1 has been operated, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to make the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 non-displayed, and to display a special image G20 of a type defined in the effect pattern. Also, when a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving an operation signal indicating that the effect button D1 has been operated after the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 have been displayed, the sub-control CPU 50a similarly controls to make the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 non-displayed, and to display a special image G20 of a type defined in the effect pattern. For example, if this is the first display of the special image G20 and the first special image G21 is defined as the first special image G20 in the effect pattern, the sub-control CPU 50a displays the first special image G21 as the special image G20 (Fig. 5(c)).

[0092] If the special image G20 currently displayed is not the special image G20 defined as the last special image G20 to be displayed in the effect pattern, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after the special image G20 has been displayed, the sub-control CPU 50a makes the special image G20 non-displayed and displays the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 (Fig. 5(b)). Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to repeat the display of the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 and the display of the special image G20 until the special image G20 defined as the last special image G20 to be displayed in the effect pattern is displayed.

[0093] On the other hand, when the special image G20 currently being displayed is the special image G20 defined as the special image G20 to be finally displayed in the production pattern, the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the special image G20, displays a reach suggestion image G30 showing a super reach production corresponding to the special image G20 that was finally displayed. As an example, the reach suggestion image G30 is an image composed of an image indicating the type of super reach production and an image indicating the jackpot expectation level suggested by the super reach production. For example, the image indicating the jackpot expectation level suggested by the super reach production is an image imitating a star.

[0094] For example, when the special image G20 displayed last is the first special image G21 (Fig. 5(c)), the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the first special image G21, makes the first special image G21 non-displayed and displays a first reach suggestion image G31 showing a super reach production A (Fig. 5(f)). As an example, the first reach suggestion image G31 is an image composed of an image imitating the character string "SP reach A" and one image imitating a single-color star.

[0095] When the special image G20 displayed last is the second special image G22 (Fig. 5(d)), the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the second special image G22, makes the second special image G22 non-displayed and displays a second reach suggestion image G32 showing a super reach production B (Fig. 5(g)). As an example, the second reach suggestion image G32 is an image composed of an image imitating the character string "SP reach B" and two images imitating single-color stars.

[0096] When the last displayed special image G20 is the third special image G23 (Fig. 5(e)), the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the third special image G23, makes the third special image G23 non-displayed and displays a third reach suggestion image G33 showing a super reach effect C (Fig. 5(h)). As an example, the third reach suggestion image G33 is an image composed of an image imitating the character string "SP reach C" and three images imitating single-color stars.

[0097] When the last displayed special image G20 is the fourth special image G24 (Fig. 6(a)), the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the fourth special image G24, makes the fourth special image G24 non-displayed and displays a fourth reach suggestion image G34 showing a super reach effect D (Fig. 6(b)). As an example, the fourth reach suggestion image G34 is an image composed of an image imitating the character string "SP reach D" and five images imitating single-color stars.

[0098] When the last displayed special image G20 is the fifth special image G25 (Fig. 6(c)), the sub-control CPU 50a, upon the elapse of a predetermined time after displaying the fifth special image G25, makes the fifth special image G25 non-displayed and displays a fifth reach suggestion image G35 showing a special super reach effect (Fig. 6(d)). As an example, the fifth reach suggestion image G35 is an image composed of an image imitating the character string "special SP reach" and five images imitating rainbow-colored stars.

[0099] Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to end the transition destination determination effect and start the reach effect whose execution has been determined. Also, in the transition destination determination effect of the present embodiment, an effect image suggesting the type of the reach effect executed after the end of the transition destination determination effect can be displayed. In the present embodiment, the effect image corresponds to the advantage information indicating the degree of advantage for the player. That is, in the present embodiment, in the transition destination determination effect, the advantage information indicating the degree of advantage for the player may be presented.

[0100] In this embodiment, there are five types of effect images that can be displayed in the destination determination effect. Specifically, the effect images include a first effect image suggesting that a reach effect equal to or greater than the super reach effect A is executed, a second effect image suggesting that a reach effect equal to or greater than the super reach effect B is executed, and a third effect image suggesting that a reach effect equal to or greater than the super reach effect C is executed. Also, the effect images include a fourth effect image suggesting that a reach effect equal to or greater than the super reach effect D is executed, and a fifth effect image suggesting that a special super reach effect is executed. Note that when a reach effect equal to or greater than a predetermined reach effect is executed, it means that either the predetermined reach effect or a reach effect with a higher jackpot expectation degree suggested than the predetermined reach effect is executed. Therefore, in this embodiment, it can be said that each effect image is an effect image with a higher advantage in the order of the first effect image < the second effect image < the third effect image < the fourth effect image < the fifth effect image.

[0101] The first effect image is displayed when the first special image is displayed in the destination determination effect. Similarly, the second effect image is displayed when the second special image is displayed, the third effect image is displayed when the third special image is displayed, the fourth effect image is displayed when the fourth special image is displayed, and the fifth effect image is displayed when the fifth special image is displayed.

[0102] Here, the display mode of the effect image will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the third special image can be displayed when the special image is displayed for the third time in one destination determination effect. Therefore, the third effect image may be displayed when the number of times the special image is displayed in one destination determination effect reaches a specific number. On the other hand, the fourth special image can be displayed when the special image is displayed for the second time in one destination determination effect, and can also be displayed when the special image is displayed for the fourth time. Therefore, the fourth effect image may be displayed when the number of times the special image is displayed in one destination determination effect is the first number less than the specific number and when the number of times the special image is displayed is the second number greater than the specific number. In the present embodiment, the third effect image corresponds to the first degree of advantage information, and the fourth effect image corresponds to the second degree of advantage information.

[0103] The third special image can be displayed when the second special image is displayed before the third special image in one destination determination effect. Therefore, the third effect image can be displayed when the second effect image is displayed before the third effect image in one destination determination effect. In the present embodiment, the second effect image corresponds to special degree of advantage information.

[0104] The fourth special image can be displayed even when the second special image and the third special image are not displayed before the fourth special image in one destination determination effect. Therefore, the fourth effect image can be displayed even when the second effect image and the third effect image are not displayed before the fourth effect image in one destination determination effect. In the present embodiment, the second effect image and the third effect image correspond to specific degree of advantage information.

[0105] Also, in one destination determination presentation, after the fifth special image is displayed, no other special image is displayed. Therefore, in the destination determination presentation, in one destination determination presentation, after the fifth effect image is displayed, no effect image with a lower degree of advantage than the fifth effect image is presented.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to display the effect image G40 in association with displaying the special image G20 in the destination determination presentation. In the present embodiment, the effect image G40 is a rectangular frame-shaped image displayed at the peripheral portion of the image display portion GH of the effect display device 12.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 7(a), when the sub-control CPU 50a displays the first special image G21 in the destination determination presentation, the first effect image G41 is displayed as the effect image G40. Although not shown, when the sub-control CPU 50a displays the second special image, the second effect image is displayed, when the third special image is displayed, the third effect image is displayed, when the fourth special image is displayed, the fourth effect image is displayed, and when the fifth special image is displayed, the fifth effect image is displayed.

[0108] Also, as shown in FIG. 7(b), when the sub-control CPU 50a displays the effect image G40 in association with displaying the special image G20, the effect image G40 is continuously displayed even when the special image G20 is made non-displayed thereafter. Therefore, in the present embodiment, even when the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are displayed in the destination determination presentation or when the reach suggestion image G30 is displayed, the effect image G40 can be displayed. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls to make the effect image G40 non-displayed as the destination determination presentation ends.

[0109] Hereinafter, a specific example of the execution mode of the destination determination presentation will be described. In the example shown in FIG. 8, it is assumed that the third presentation pattern has been determined as the presentation pattern of the transition destination determination presentation. In the transition destination determination presentation, first, the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12 (FIG. 8(a)). Subsequently, when the presentation button D1 is operated, the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 become non-displayed, and the special image G20 and the effect image G40 are presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12 (FIG. 8(b)). In this example, the first special image G21 is displayed as the special image G20. Also, in this example, the first effect image G41 is presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12 as the effect image G40.

[0110] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the first special image G21 was displayed, the first special image G21 becomes non-displayed, and the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are again presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12 (FIG. 8(c)). At this time, the first effect image G41 continues to be displayed even after the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are displayed.

[0111] Next, when the presentation button D1 is operated, the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 become non-displayed, the special image G20 is presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12, and the display mode of the effect image G40 changes according to the type of the newly displayed special image G20 (FIG. 8(d)). In this example, the second special image G22 is displayed as the special image G20. Also, in this example, instead of the first effect image G41, the second effect image G42 is displayed as the effect image G40.

[0112] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the second special image G22 was displayed, the second special image G22 becomes non-displayed, and the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are again presented and displayed on the presentation display device 12 (FIG. 8(e)). At this time, the second effect image G42 continues to be displayed even after the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are displayed.

[0113] Next, when the effect button D1 is operated, the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 become non-displayed, and the special image G20 is displayed on the effect display device 12. Along with this, according to the type of the newly displayed special image G20, the display mode of the effect image G40 changes (Fig. 8(f)). In this example, as the special image G20, the third special image G23 is displayed. Also, in this example, as the effect image G40, instead of the second effect image G42, the second effect image G42 is displayed.

[0114] Then, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the third special image G23 was displayed, the third special image G23 becomes non-displayed, and the reach suggestion image G30 is displayed on the effect display device 12 (Fig. 8(g)). In this example, as the reach suggestion image G30, the third reach suggestion image G33 is displayed. At this time, the third effect image G43 continues to be displayed even after the third reach suggestion image G33 is displayed. After that, along with the end of the transition destination determination effect, the third reach suggestion image G33 and the third effect image G43 become non-displayed.

[0115] As described above, the transition destination determination effect can be executed in such a manner that the specific image G10 is displayed during the execution of the transition destination determination effect, the special image G20 is displayed after the specific image G10 is displayed, and the specific image G10 is displayed again after the special image G20 is displayed.

[0116] In particular, the transition destination determination effect of the present embodiment can be executed in such a manner that when the effect button D1 is operated during the execution of the transition destination determination effect, the special image G20 is displayed instead of the specific image G10, and then the specific image G10 is displayed again.

[0117] The effects of the present embodiment will be described. (1) In the transition destination determination presentation, when the special image G20 is displayed after the specific image G10 is displayed, the specific image G10 may be displayed again after the special image G20 is displayed, so that an impression of the presentation being rewound can be given. According to this, even when the interest in the game cannot be improved by the display of the special image G20, the interest in the game can be improved by giving an impression that the transition destination determination presentation is executed again.

[0118] (2) In particular, in the transition destination determination presentation, after the special image G20 is displayed by the operation of the presentation button D1, the specific image G10 may be displayed again. According to this, even when the player himself / herself is dissatisfied with the display of the special image G20 by the operation of the presentation button D1, the impression that the transition destination determination presentation can be redone can be given by the display of the specific image G10 again, so that the interest in the game can be improved.

[0119] (3) When a plurality of special images are displayed in one transition destination determination presentation, different types of special images may be displayed when they are displayed first and when they are displayed later, so that the player can be expected to enjoy the game by the display of more advantageous special images for the player.

[0120] (4) In the transition destination determination presentation, after the first special image is displayed, when the next special image is displayed, there are cases where the second special image is displayed and cases where the fourth special image is displayed, while the third special image is not displayed. According to this, when a plurality of special images are displayed in the transition destination determination presentation, the player can be made to enjoy the game by giving a regularity to the display order of the special images.

[0121] (5) In particular, the third special image may be displayed when the next special image is displayed after the second special image is displayed in one transition destination determination presentation, so that the player can enjoy the display of a plurality of types of special images step by step.

[0122] (6) In the transition destination determination effect for one time, when the number of times the special image is displayed is a specific number, the third effect image may be displayed. On the other hand, in the transition destination determination effect for one time, whether the number of times the special image is displayed is the first number less than the specific number or the second number more than the specific number, the fourth effect image may be displayed. According to this, since the relationship between the timing when the effect image is displayed and the degree of advantage suggested by the displayed effect image can be complicated, it is possible to suppress the player from getting bored and improve the interest in the game.

[0123] (7) The fourth effect image can be displayed even when the second effect image and the third effect image are not displayed before the fourth effect image is displayed in the transition destination determination effect for one time. According to this, even when the second effect image and the third effect image with a lower degree of advantage than the fourth effect image are not displayed, it is possible to make the player expect the fourth effect image to be displayed, so that the player can be entertained by giving an element of surprise to the display of the effect image.

[0124] (8) The third effect image can be displayed when the second effect image is displayed before the third effect image is displayed in the transition destination determination effect for one time. According to this, since the transition destination determination effect can be advanced in the order that the third effect image is displayed after the second effect image with a lower degree of advantage than the third effect image is displayed, the player can be entertained in a manner in which the degree of advantage advances step by step.

[0125] (9) After the fifth effect image with the highest degree of advantage among the plurality of types of effect images is displayed in the transition destination determination effect for one time, the effect image is not displayed again. According to this, in the transition destination determination effect for one time, it is possible to suppress the player's interest from being lowered by displaying an effect image with a lower degree of advantage than the fifth effect image after the fifth effect image is displayed.

[0126] The above-described embodiments can be implemented with the following modifications. Note that the above-described embodiments and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other as long as they do not technically conflict with each other.

[0127] · The display mode of the effect image G40 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the number of types of the effect image G40 may be 4 or less, or may be 6 or more. Also, the number of types of the effect image G40 does not have to be the same as the number of types of the special image G20. In this case, when a predetermined type of special image G20 is displayed, any one of the plurality of types of effect images G40 may be displayable. For example, as the effect image G40 that can be displayed when the third special image G23 is displayed, there may be provided a plurality of types of effect images G40. Also, when different types of special images G20 are displayed, the same effect image G40 may be displayable. For example, the same effect image G40 may be displayable when the second special image G22 is displayed and when the third special image G23 is displayed.

[0128] · The period during which the effect image G40 can be displayed may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the reach suggestion image G30 is being displayed, the effect image G40 may not be displayed. Also, when the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 are being displayed, the effect image G40 may not be displayed. That is, the effect image G40 may be displayable only when the special image G20 is being displayed.

[0129] · Depending on the display of the special image G20, there may be a case where the effect image G40 is displayed and a case where the effect image G40 is not displayed. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may determine whether to display the effect image G40 by, for example, a predetermined lottery. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a may vary the winning probability of the predetermined lottery according to whether the ongoing variable game is a winning game, so that the jackpot expectation level is different between when the effect image G40 is displayed and when the effect image G40 is not displayed. Also, the sub-control CPU 50a may vary the winning probability of the predetermined lottery according to the type of the displayed special image G20.

[0130] · In the transition destination determination effect, the sub-control CPU 50a may not display the effect image G40. In this case, as the advantage information, a predetermined sound may be output from the speaker Sp, or the decorative lamp La may be made to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode.

[0131] · In one transition destination determination effect, the order in which the special image G20 is displayed may be changed as appropriate. For example, in one transition destination determination effect, after a predetermined special image G20 is displayed, a special image G20 with a lower advantage level than the special image G20 may be displayed. Specifically, after the fifth special image G25 is displayed, the first special image G21 to the fourth special image G24 may be displayed. That is, in one transition destination determination effect, after the fifth effect image is displayed, an effect image with a lower advantage level than the fifth effect image may be displayed.

[0132] · In one transition destination determination effect, even when the second special image G22 is not displayed, the third special image G23 may be displayed sometimes. That is, in one transition destination determination effect, even when the second effect image is not displayed, the third effect image may be displayed sometimes.

[0133] ·In one transition destination determination effect, the fourth special image G24 may be displayable when the second special image G22 and the third special image G23 are displayed before the fourth special image G24 is displayed. That is, in one transition destination determination effect, the fourth effect image may be displayable when the second effect image and the third effect image are displayed before the fourth effect image is displayed.

[0134] ·The third special image G23 may be displayable even when the special image G20 is not displayed for the third time in one transition destination determination effect. That is, the third effect image may be displayable even when the number of times the special image G20 is displayed is other than a specific number of times in one transition destination determination effect.

[0135] ·When the special image G20 is displayed multiple times in one transition destination determination effect, the same type of special image G20 may be displayed when it is displayed earlier and when it is displayed later.

[0136] ·In the transition destination determination effect, the special image G20 may be displayed regardless of the operation of the effect button D1. In this case, the operation instruction image G11 may not be displayed in the transition destination determination effect.

[0137] ·In the transition destination determination effect, after the special image G20 is displayed, the special image G20 may be made non-displayed when the effect button D1 is operated. In this case, the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 may be displayed when the effect button D1 is operated, or the reach suggestion image G30 may be displayed.

[0138] ·In one transition destination determination effect, after the special image G20 is displayed, another special image G20 may be displayed without the specific image G10 and the operation instruction image G11 being displayed.

[0139] ·As a specific effect performed by displaying a specific image, it may be embodied in a gaming machine capable of executing an effect different from the transition destination determination effect. For example, the specific effect may be a hold change effect that changes the display mode of a hold image indicating a variable game whose execution is on hold. In this case, the hold change effect may be executed in such a manner that after a specific image is displayed as the hold image, a special image different from the specific image is displayed, and then the specific image is displayed again. Also, the specific effect may be an operation instruction effect that instructs an operation of the effect button D1. In this case, the operation instruction effect may be executed in such a manner that after a specific image is displayed as an operation instruction image instructing an operation of the effect button D1, a special image different from the specific image is displayed, and then the specific image is displayed again.

[0140] ·As a probability state that determines the probability of winning a jackpot lottery, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine 10 having two or more types of probability states. That is, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine 10 having a probability variation function.

[0141] ·As a time shortening state, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine 10 having two or more types of time shortening states. Also, as a gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine 10 that does not have a time shortening state. That is, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine 10 that does not have a ball entry rate improvement state in which the ball entry rate into the second start winning opening 15 is improved.

[0142] ·The sub-control board 50 may be used as a sub-master control board, and separately from the sub-control board 50, a display control board that specifically controls the effect display device 12, an audio control board that specifically controls the speaker Sp, and a lamp control board that specifically controls the decorative lamp La may be provided individually. Also, some or all of the display control board, the audio control board, and the lamp control board may be the same board. Also, the sub-control CPU 50a may be composed of a plurality of CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0143] ·The pachinko gaming machine 10 may include a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50. Also, the functions of the main control board 40 may be realized by being divided among a plurality of boards. The main control CPU 41a may be composed of a plurality of CPUs mounted on a single board.

[0144] ·The first special game and the second special game may be executed according to the order in which the game balls enter the first and second start winning openings 14 and 15, or may be executed simultaneously in parallel. Also, the second special game may be omitted.

[0145] ·The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be embodied as one that does not execute the production game. In this case, a special symbol may be displayed on the production display device 12. The technical idea grasped from this embodiment and the modified example will be described.

[0146] (Appendix 1) A gaming machine comprising display means capable of displaying an image and display control means for controlling the display means, wherein the display means is capable of executing a specific production by displaying a special image, and in the specific production, the display mode of the special image may change and advantage information indicating the degree of advantage for the player may be presented, and the advantage information includes first advantage information and second advantage information, the first advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific production reaches a specific number, and the second advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific production is a first number less than the specific number and a second number greater than the specific number.

[0147] (Appendix 2) The gaming machine according to Appendix 1, wherein the advantage information includes specific advantage information having a lower degree of advantage than the second advantage information, and the second advantage information can be presented even when the specific advantage information has not been presented before the second advantage information is presented in one specific production.

[0148] (Supplementary Note 3) The degree-of-advantage information includes special degree-of-advantage information with a lower degree of advantage than the first degree-of-advantage information, and the first degree-of-advantage information can be presented when the special degree-of-advantage information has been presented before the first degree-of-advantage information in one occurrence of the specific presentation. The gaming machine according to Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2.

[0149] (Supplementary Note 4) The degree-of-advantage information includes special degree-of-advantage information, and in the specific presentation, after the special degree-of-advantage information has been presented during one occurrence of the specific presentation, the degree-of-advantage information with a lower degree of advantage than the special degree-of-advantage information is not presented. The gaming machine according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3.

Explanation of Signs

[0150] D1… Performance button G10… Specific image G11… Operation instruction image G20… Special image G21… First special image G22… Second special image G23… Third special image G24… Fourth special image G25… Fifth special image G30… Reach suggestion image G31… First reach suggestion image G32… Second reach suggestion image G33… Third reach suggestion image G34… Fourth reach suggestion image G35… Fifth reach suggestion image G40… Effect image (favorability information) G41… First effect image G42… Second effect image G43… Third effect image GH… Image display unit HD… Launch handle La… Decoration lamp SE1… First start winning sensor SE2… Second start winning sensor SE3… Count sensor SE4… Gate sensor SL1… First solenoid SL2… Second solenoid Sp… Speaker W… Center frame YB… Pachinko game machine YBa… Game area YBb… Opening window ZR1… First symbol display area ZR2… Second symbol display area 10… Pachinko machine 11… Frame 11a… Installation frame 11b… Mounting frame 11c… Locking device 12… Performance display device (display means) 13… Information display device 13a… First special symbol display section 13b… Second special symbol display section 13c… First special hold display section 13d… Second special hold display section 13e… Normal symbol display section 13f… Normal hold display section 14… First start winning opening 15… Second start winning opening 16… Normal movable piece 17… Big winning opening 18… Special opening and closing piece 25… Gate 40… Main control board 41… Microprocessor 41a… Main control CPU 41b… Main control ROM 41c… Main control RAM 50… Sub-control board 50a… Sub-control CPU (display control means) 50b… Sub-control ROM 50c… Sub-control RAM

Claims

1. display means capable of displaying an image, display control means for controlling the display means, the display means is capable of executing a specific effect by displaying a special image, in the specific effect, the display mode of the special image may change, and advantage information indicating the degree of advantage for the player may be presented, the advantage information includes first advantage information and second advantage information, the first advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific effect reaches a specific number, the second advantage information may be presented when the number of times the special image is shown in one specific effect is a first number less than the specific number and a second number greater than the specific number. A gaming machine characterized by this.

2. the advantage information includes specific advantage information with a lower degree of advantage than the second advantage information, The second advantage information can be presented even when the specific advantage information has not been presented before the second advantage information is presented in one specific effect. The gaming machine according to claim 1.

3. the advantage information includes special advantage information with a lower degree of advantage than the first advantage information, The first advantage information can be presented when the special advantage information has been presented before the first advantage information is presented in one specific effect. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2.

Images