Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine for enhancing interest in a game.SOLUTION: A specific game state includes at least a first section in which the number of variation times of remaining patterns to be executed is larger than a specific number of times and a second section in which the number of variation times of remaining patterns to be executed is equal to or less than a specific number of times, a lottery result includes a specific result, performance control means can execute a specific performance for suggesting a high degree of expectation of acquisition of a specific result during a variation in a pattern, and a degree of expectation that a lottery result is a specific result is higher when a specific performance occurs in the first section than in the second section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine is known, which includes a gaming area where gaming balls (gaming values) move, a launching device for launching the gaming balls into the gaming area, and the like. The pachinko gaming machine is provided with a start port provided in the gaming area, and when the entry of the gaming ball into the start port is detected, a special symbol lottery is performed. When the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the gaming state shifts to a special gaming state, and a plurality of special games are executed in the special gaming state. In each special game, a large winning port provided in the gaming area operates in an open state, and gaming balls are paid out based on the entry of the gaming balls into the large winning port.

[0003] In addition, in this type of gaming machine, when the gaming state shifts to a special short-time gaming state, the presentation state becomes a first presentation state, and then the presentation state becomes a second presentation state (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in gaming machines, it is required to improve the interest of the game.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine with improved game interest.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention A gaming machine having a gaming area (gaming area 4) where a gaming medium moves and shooting the gaming medium into the gaming area according to a player's operation, main control means (main control board 200) for controlling the progress of the game, effect control means (effect control means 300) for performing control related to effects based on information transmitted from the main control means, lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) for performing a lottery based on the entry of a gaming medium into a predetermined area (second start port 49) provided in the gaming area, symbol display means (second special symbol display unit 81) capable of variably displaying symbols, state control means (game state transition control means 250) for performing control to transition the game state among a plurality of types of game states including a normal game state (normal state) and a specific game state (time-saving state), and is provided with The state control means can end the specific game state based on the fact that the number of times of symbol variation in the specific game state has reached a predetermined number of times, The specific game state includes at least a first section where the remaining number of times of symbol variation that can be executed is more than a specific number of times, and a second section where the remaining number of times of symbol variation that can be executed is less than or equal to the specific number of times, The result of the lottery includes a specific result (win), The effect control means can execute a specific effect suggesting that the probability of obtaining the specific result is high during the variation of the symbols, When the specific effect occurs, the probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result is higher in the second section than in the first section.

[0008] The probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs is higher in the second section than in the first section. Therefore, different gaming experiences can be provided to the player in the first and second sections, and the excitement of the game can be enhanced compared to the case where the "probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs" is constant. Although the player strongly desires to obtain the specific result in the second section more than in the first section, since the "probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs" is higher in the second section, when the specific effect occurs in the second section, the player's joy (expectation) will be even greater. That is, the player can be excited.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, the excitement of the game can be enhanced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, basically, "front and back" means that when the player is on the front side of the gaming machine, the player side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "back", "up and down" means that the upper surface side of the gaming machine is "up" and the lower surface side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing on the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right".

[0012] Unlike a conventional pachinko gaming machine, the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment enables the game to proceed without the player touching the game ball. The gaming machine 1 is of an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of game balls (game media) circulate inside the gaming machine. Also, the gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine in which game value as electronic information is used, and the game value is consumed or paid out by the game. Paying out the game value in the gaming machine 1 means electronically paying out (granting) the game value. Note that the invention according to the present embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1, and is also applicable to a conventional pachinko gaming machine, that is, a pachinko gaming machine in which a player can touch a physical game ball and the game ball is paid out to a tray based on the entry of the game ball into a predetermined winning hole.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine of the present embodiment includes an outer frame 2 that forms the outer surface of the gaming machine, a game board 6 that is provided inside the gaming machine and forms a game area 4 in which game balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the game board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the game board 6 visible but not accessible to the player, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. Further, the front frame 10 is attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be openable and closable. And the inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that closes the opening of the outer frame 2 and an open position (open state) that opens the opening of the outer frame 2.

[0014] The portion of the front frame 10 that surrounds the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material, a plurality of front frame lamps 12 that output effect lights for enlivening the game are provided. Further, on the left and right of the lower part of the front frame 10, speakers 14 (sound output means) that output effect sounds for enlivening the game are provided.

[0015] A grip unit 20 (handle) is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10. When the player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a firing device (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine operates, and a game ball is fired into the game area 4. The firing device of the present embodiment can fire 99 game balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

[0016] An effect button 26 (effect operation means) is provided on the front frame 10. When the player operates the effect button 26, the effect performed by the gaming machine changes. Further, a cross key 27, a volume adjustment button 25, and a light amount adjustment button 29 that can be pressed are provided on the front frame 10.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1, a dedicated unit 400 (a gaming value lending device, a predetermined device) as a device for lending gaming values is provided and connected to the gaming machine 1. On the front surface of the dedicated unit 400, there are provided a bill insertion slot 406 into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion / ejection port 402 into / from which a card (a gaming value management medium) can be inserted / ejected, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, a card return button 405, and the like. The card is used to manage the number of gaming values owned by the player. In other words, the number of gaming values owned by the player can be grasped by the card. Further, the card may be capable of storing a prepaid balance. Note that the management of the number of gaming values by the card may be performed by storing the number of gaming values in the card itself, or the number of gaming values may be stored in a predetermined management device or the like installed in a game hall or the like, and the number of gaming values stored in the management device or the like may be associated with the identification information (such as the player's ID or the identification number unique to each card) stored in the card, and so on.

[0018] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (a pressing operation) on the lending button 403 is received as a lending operation (a gaming value transfer operation) for transferring gaming values to the gaming machine 1. When the lending button 403 is pressed, the bills inserted into the bill insertion slot 406 or the stored value stored as the prepaid balance in the card is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125) of gaming values are credited to the gaming machine 1. Also, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (a pressing operation) on the replay button 404 is received as a lending operation (a gaming value transfer operation) for transferring gaming values to the gaming machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, the gaming values owned by the player managed by the card (the gaming values associated with the card) are consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 125) of gaming values are credited to the gaming machine 1. That is, in the present embodiment, an operation on the lending button 403 or the replay button 404 as the lending operation means is received as a lending operation (a gaming value transfer operation), and based on the lending operation, a predetermined number of gaming values are transferred (lent) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, on the left side (the dedicated unit 400 side) of the front frame 10, a game value number display device (game ball number display device) 211 and a counting button (counting operation means) 212 are provided. Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 400, in the gaming machine 1, a value corresponding to a predetermined number of game values is stored in the game value number storage area of the frame control board 201 described later. Hereinafter, the value (stored value) indicated by the game value number storage area is referred to as the "number of held balls" (number of held balls). The number of held balls can be said to be the number of game values available for the game. The number of held balls is displayed on the game value number display device 211. The game value number display device 211 has a six-digit seven-segment display, and the number of held balls is displayed by the seven-segment display.

[0020] The gaming machine 1 includes a frame control board 201 (see FIG. 5), and the frame control board 201 controls the value (number of held balls) stored in the game value number storage area. The frame control board 201 decreases the number of held balls based on the detection of the launch of a game ball. In addition, the frame control board 201 increases the number of held balls based on the payout of bonus balls. Also, the frame control board 201 increases the number of held balls based on the detection of a foul ball. Further, when game values are transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 increases the number of held balls by the number of game values transferred. Also, when game values are transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 decreases the number of held balls by the number of game values transferred. In addition, the frame control board 201 performs control to display the number of held balls on the game value number display device 211, and changes the display content of the game value number display device 211 according to the increase or decrease of the number of held balls.

[0021] The count button 212 is a button that is operated when all or part of the number of held medals (game value stored in the game value number storage area) is transmitted (returned, transferred) to the dedicated unit 400. The count button 212 is provided with a pressing part (operation part), and the pressing part is formed so as to be depressable. When the player wants to end the game or the like, the player performs an operation (pressing operation) on the count button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the count button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of game values are transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400. After the game value is transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when an operation (pressing operation) on the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400 is performed, a card that enables the player to grasp the number of game values owned by the player is discharged from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / ejection port 402).

[0022] FIG. 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board 6. An outer rail 28 is provided in a circular shape on the game board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 28 is the game area 4 where the game balls move. Further, an inner rail 30 is provided in an arc shape along the outer rail 28 at the left end of the game area 4, and the outer rail 28 and the inner rail 30 guide the game balls launched from a launching device (not shown) provided below the game board 6 into the game area 4.

[0023] In the center of the game board 6, there is provided an effect unit 36 including a liquid crystal display 32 (effect display device, display means) for displaying an effect image or the like for enlivening the game, and a display frame 34 formed so as to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is provided an illumination device 38 (illumination means) that constitutes the effect unit 36 and outputs effect light or the like for enlivening the game.

[0024] In this embodiment, the front side of the liquid crystal display 32 is made impassable for the game balls, and the game balls launched from the launching device fall into the game area 4a on the left side or the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. Also, a large number of game pins (not shown) are driven into the game area 4 so as to intersect the surface of the game board 6, and the moving direction of the game balls moving in the game area 4 randomly changes.

[0025] In addition, an opening 40 through which the game balls falling into the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass is formed in the left part of the display frame 34. The game balls that have passed through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The upper surface of this stage 44 is a smooth curved surface, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8 through which the game balls can fall downward from the stage 44. The game balls that have fallen onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 reciprocate left and right on the stage 44 and then fall downward from near the central part of the stage 44.

[0026] Below the central part of the stage 44, a first start port 46 (first area) into which game balls (including the game balls that have fallen downward from near the central part of the stage 44) can enter is provided. Also, a first start port switch 100 (see FIG. 5) for detecting the game balls that have entered the first start port 46 is disposed in the first start port 46. When the first start port switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start port 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Also, based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery (first lottery). Also, based on the input of the detection signal from the first start port switch 100, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one). Also, the game balls that have entered the first start port 46 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0027] To the left of the first start port 46 in the gaming area 4, a plurality (three) of general winning ports 47 (upper left general winning port 47a, middle left general winning port 47b, and lower left general winning port 47c) are provided. Further, on the game board 6, a general winning port switch 101 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a game ball that has entered the upper left general winning port 47a, the middle left general winning port 47b, or the lower left general winning port 47c is disposed. When the general winning port switch 101 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the upper left general winning port 47a, the middle left general winning port 47b, or the lower left general winning port 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, the main control board 200 executes the payout of prize balls (for example, three). Note that one general winning port switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general winning port 47a, the middle left general winning port 47b, and the lower left general winning port 47c, or only one general winning port switch 101 may be provided for a plurality (for example, three) of general winning ports 47. Further, in addition to the upper left general winning port 47a, the middle left general winning port 47b, and the lower left general winning port 47c, general winning ports 47 and general winning port switches corresponding to these general winning ports may be provided.

[0028] In the gaming area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a passage gate 48 through which game balls pass without being collected inside the gaming machine is provided. Further, inside the passage gate 48, a gate switch 102 (see FIG. 5) for detecting that a game ball has passed is disposed. When the gate switch 102 detects a game ball (passage of the game ball through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery for determining the winning or losing of a normal hit.

[0029] In the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, below the passing gate 48, a second start port 49 (second area, predetermined area) is provided. Further, inside the second start port 49, a second start port switch 103 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is disposed. When the second start port switch 103 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the second start port 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery as a special symbol lottery (second lottery). Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one). Further, the game ball that has entered the second start port 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0030] The second start port 49 is provided with a normal accessory 54 (first movable object) that is operable between a reduced state (closed state) in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start port 49 (a state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start port 49) and an enlarged state (open state) in which it is easy for a game ball to enter (a state in which it is easy for a game ball to enter the second start port 49). The normal accessory 54 incorporates a driving device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the enlarged state under predetermined conditions when a normal win is won in the normal symbol lottery.

[0031] In the game area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32, a big winning port 50 (third area) is provided. Further, inside the big winning port 50, a count switch 104 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a game ball that has entered the big winning port 50 is disposed. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the big winning port 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, 15). Further, based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls that have entered the big winning port 50. Further, the game ball that has entered the big winning port 50 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0032] The large winning opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 (second movable object, specific movable object) that can operate between a closed state (non-entry state) in which game balls cannot enter the large winning opening 50 and an open state (entry possible state) in which game balls can enter. The special device 56 incorporates a driving device such as a solenoid and is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a jackpot is won in a special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery). Also, the special device 56 is controlled to be in the open state under predetermined conditions in a small win game state that starts when a small win is won in a special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery).

[0033] Inside the large winning opening 50, there are provided a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) for distributing the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 to either the specific area or the discharge area. A specific area switch 107 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the specific area. The specific area switch 107 outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200 based on the detection of game balls passing through the specific area (passage of the specific area by game balls). The distribution means can be displaced between a specific area passage state in which the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 are distributed to the specific area and a non-specific area passage state in which the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. That is, when the distribution means is displaced to the specific area passage state, the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. As a result, it becomes impossible for the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 to pass through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the distribution means is displaced to the non-specific area passage state, the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. As a result, it becomes impossible for the game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The distribution means is displaced by a specific area solenoid. The game balls that have entered the large winning opening 50 are first detected by the count switch 104, then distributed by the distribution means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through the area, are discharged to the discharge path. At this time, the game balls distributed to the specific area are detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0034] At the bottom of the game area 4, there is an out port 62 for collecting the game balls that have fallen in the game area 4 without entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 into the interior of the gaming machine. Here, inside the gaming machine, there is a discharge path (not shown) through which the game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. In this gaming machine, all the game balls launched into the game area 4 (all the game balls collected from the game area 4) are configured to pass through the discharge path. That is, the game balls launched into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path by entering any of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 or passing through the out port 62. Specifically, the game balls that have entered each of the winning holes 46, 47, 49, 50 are detected by the switches 100, 101, 103, 104 disposed in the winning holes and then guided to the discharge path. Also, the game balls collected from the out port 62 are guided to the discharge path. Further, an out switch 106 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a game ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of the game ball from the game area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Also, based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106, the main control board 200 counts the number of game balls discharged from the game area 4.

[0035] The game ball launching device is configured such that the launching output of the game ball changes by adjusting the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in FIG. 1. When the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that the game ball falls in the game area 4a (the first game area 4a, the left hitting area) on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32. When the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that the game ball falls in the game area 4b (the second game area 4b, the right hitting area) on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32.

[0036] The player adjusts the rotation amount of the grip unit 20 according to the game situation, and launches the game ball so that the game ball falls into the left game area 4a, or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42, and the stage 44 and wins the first start port 46 (left hit), or the game ball falls into the right game area 4b, or the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, or the game ball wins the second start port 49, or the game ball wins the big winning port 50 (right hit). In the present embodiment, the left hit may be referred to as the first game method, and the right hit may be referred to as the second game method.

[0037] In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the game ball falls into the left game area 4a, the game ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the game ball does not enter (win) the second start port 49 and the big winning port 50. Further, when the game ball falls into the right game area 4b, the game ball does not enter the first start port 46 and the general winning port 47.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3, at the lower right part of the game board 6 and outside the game area 4, a state display unit 70 for indicating various states of the gaming machine by lighting and extinguishing a lamp or the like is provided.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the state display unit 70. The state display unit 70 is provided with a normal symbol display unit 72, a normal hold display unit 74, a first special symbol display unit 76, a first special hold display unit 78, a second special symbol display unit 81, a second special hold display unit 82, and a game state display unit 84.

[0040] The normal symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and variably displays the normal symbol by blinking the two lamps when the normal symbol lottery is performed, and stops displaying the normal symbol by lighting or extinguishing the two lamps, and displays the result of the normal symbol lottery.

[0041] The normal hold display section 74 is composed of two lamps, and when the normal symbol is already in the process of variable display or stop display when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, etc., even if a random number value for normal symbol lottery is obtained, the normal symbol lottery cannot be conducted, and thus when the random number value for normal symbol lottery is held, it displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of held random number values for normal symbol lottery. By combining lighting, turning off, or flashing the two lamps, it displays normal hold numbers from 0 to 4.

[0042] The first special symbol display section 76 is composed of a 7-segment display. When the first special symbol lottery is conducted due to a game ball entering the first start port 46, it variably displays the first special symbol by flashing the 7-segment display, and stops displaying the first special symbol by lighting the 7-segment display in any one of a plurality of modes, and displays the result of the first special symbol lottery.

[0043] The first special hold display section 78 is composed of two lamps. When the first special symbol or the second special symbol is already in the process of variable display or stop display when a game ball enters the first start port 46, etc., even if a random number value (lottery information) for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery cannot be conducted, and thus when the random number value for special symbol lottery is held as the first special random number value, it displays the first special hold number corresponding to the number of held first special random number values. By combining lighting, turning off, or flashing the two lamps, it displays first special hold numbers from 0 to 4.

[0044] The second special symbol display section 81 is composed of a 7-segment display. When the second special symbol lottery is conducted due to a game ball entering the second start port 49, it variably displays the second special symbol by flashing the 7-segment display, and stops displaying the second special symbol by lighting the 7-segment display in any one of a plurality of modes, and displays the result of the second special symbol lottery.

[0045] The second special hold display unit 82 is composed of two lamps, and when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is in the process of variable display or stop display at the time when the game ball enters the second start port 49, etc., even if a random number value for special symbol lottery is obtained, the special symbol lottery cannot be performed. When the random number value for special symbol lottery is held as the second special random number value, it displays the second special hold number corresponding to the number of the held second special random number values. By the combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the two lamps, it displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers.

[0046] The game state display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and it displays the type of the currently set game state by the combination of turning on, turning off, or blinking the six lamps. Although the details will be described later, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of game states including a normal state, a time-saving state, and a special game state can be set. The time-saving state is a game state in which the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shortened compared to the normal state, and the trigger for executing the special symbol lottery comes frequently.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by a control board including a main control board 200 (main control means), a sub-control board 202 (sub-control means), and a frame control board 201. The functions of the main control board 200, the sub-control board 202, and the frame control board 201 are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or RAM, or by software composed of a given program stored in advance in the ROM, etc.

[0048] The main control board 200 receives input signals from input means such as the gate switch 102, the first start port switch 100, the second start port switch 103, the general winning port switch 101, the count switch 104, the out switch 106, and the specific area switch 107, performs various operations for executing the game, and based on the operation results, controls the operations of output means such as the normal accessory 54 and the special accessory 56.

[0049] The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150, performs various calculations for executing effects according to the progress of the game, and based on the calculation results, controls the operations of effect devices such as the front frame lamp 12, the speaker 14, the liquid crystal display 32, and the lighting device 38.

[0050] The frame control board 201 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the count button 212, controls the held balls (number of game balls), and controls the game value number display device 211 and the like. The frame control board 201 can communicate bidirectionally with the main control board 200.

[0051] The main control board 200 includes a random number generation means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal accessory control means 224, a special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means), a special display control means 240, a game state transition control means 250 (state control means), a special game execution means 260, a payout control means 270, a communication control means 280, and a main memory 290, etc.

[0052] The random number generation means 210 is a means for generating a random number value for lottery, and is realized by a random number generator for generating a hardware random number or a program for generating a software random number. The software random number can be generated based on, for example, the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numerical values so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, the "random number value" includes not only a value that randomly occurs in a mathematical sense, but also a value that can function as a random number in essence because its acquisition timing or the like is irregular even though its generation itself is regular.

[0053] Based on the detection signal input from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passing gate 48 one by one, the normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210 and stores it in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and conducts a normal symbol lottery to determine whether it is a normal win or not for the normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0054] Specifically, in the normal random number storage means 2912, four normal hold storage areas, namely normal hold storage area 1 to normal hold storage area 4, are provided as storage areas for storing the acquired normal symbol lottery random number values. And one such normal hold storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal hold storage area 1 until the variable display and stop display of the normal symbol are completed. Then, when the normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a normal symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210, if the normal symbol lottery random number value is not stored in any of the normal hold storage areas 1 to 4, the acquired normal symbol lottery random number value is first stored in the normal hold storage area 1. And when the normal symbol lottery random number value is stored in the normal hold storage area 1, if the normal symbol is not in the variable display or stop display, that is, the normal symbol lottery random number value is not stored in the normal hold storage area, and the control to open the normal accessory 54 is not being executed, then immediately read the normal symbol lottery random number value from the normal hold storage area 1 to conduct a normal symbol lottery, and store the normal symbol lottery random number value for which the normal symbol lottery has been conducted in the normal hold storage area. On the other hand, if the normal symbol is in the variable display or stop display, that is, the normal symbol lottery random number value is stored in the normal hold storage area, or the control to open the normal accessory 54 is being executed, the normal symbol lottery random number value is held in the normal hold storage area 1.

[0055] When a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 and a random number value for normal symbol lottery is obtained while the random number value for normal symbol lottery is being held in the normal holding memory area 1, the normal symbol lottery means 220 stores the random number value for normal symbol lottery in the normal holding memory area where the ordinal number is the smallest among the normal holding memory areas 1 to 4 in which the random number value for normal symbol lottery is not held, on the condition that the number of random number values for normal symbol lottery held in the normal holding memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the normal holding number is less than 4.

[0056] When the variable display and stop display of the normal symbol are completed, the normal symbol lottery means 220 deletes the random number value for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal holding memory area. When a random number value for normal symbol lottery is being held in the normal holding memory area 1, the normal symbol lottery means 220 reads out the random number value for normal symbol lottery from the normal holding memory area 1 and conducts a normal symbol lottery on the condition that the control to open the normal accessory 54 is not being executed, and stores the random number value for normal symbol lottery for which the normal symbol lottery has been conducted in the normal holding memory area. Here, when random number values for normal symbol lottery remain in the normal holding memory areas 2 and later, the remaining random number values for normal symbol lottery are moved from the original normal holding memory area to the normal holding memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, when random number values for normal symbol lottery remain in the normal holding memory areas 2 to 3, they are moved to the normal holding memory areas 1 to 2.

[0057] In this way, in the normal random number storage means 2912, the random number value for normal symbol lottery for which the normal symbol lottery has been conducted is held up to a maximum of 1 in the normal holding memory area, and the random number values for normal symbol lottery for which the normal symbol lottery has not been conducted are held up to a maximum of 4 in the normal holding memory areas 1 to 4.

[0058] The normal symbol lottery means 220 conducts a normal winning determination process and the like as the normal symbol lottery.

[0059] The normal winning determination process is a process for determining whether it is a "normal win". In the normal winning determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects, according to the game state, which of the multiple types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for performing the random number determination process. Here, each normal symbol lottery table has "normal win" or "loss" associated with each of the 100 random numbers for normal symbol lottery values from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 determines whether a "normal win" has been won by determining whether the one random number for normal symbol lottery value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win with reference to the selected normal symbol lottery table.

[0060] The normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is the time-saving state is set to have a higher probability of a "normal win" than the normal symbol lottery table selected when the game state is not the time-saving state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery conducted when the game state is the time-saving state has a higher probability of a "normal win" than the normal symbol lottery conducted when the game state is not the time-saving state.

[0061] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the state display unit 70 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs a normal symbol display control process and a normal hold display control process.

[0062] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal display control means 222 variably displays the normal symbol by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time elapses, and stops displaying the normal symbol by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 according to whether a "normal win" has been won in the normal winning determination process, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72.

[0063] In this embodiment, the variation time of the normal symbol is determined according to the game state at the time when the normal symbol lottery is conducted. Specifically, when the game state is the time-saving state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set shorter than when the game state is not the time-saving state. For example, when the game state at the time when the normal symbol lottery is conducted is not the time-saving state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to the first time (for example, 20 seconds), and when the game state at the time when the normal symbol lottery is conducted is the time-saving state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to the second time (for example, 1 second) which is shorter than the first time. Therefore, when the game state is the time-saving state, the trigger timing for executing the normal symbol lottery comes more frequently.

[0064] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by the combination of turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74 according to the number of normal symbol lottery random number values stored in the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0065] The normal accessory control means 224 is means for controlling the normal accessory 54 based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. When the game state is not the time-saving state, the normal accessory control means 224 controls the normal accessory 54 to operate such that after the normal accessory 54 becomes in the enlarged state, it returns to the reduced state until the time A (for example, 0.1 second) elapses, triggered by the normal symbol stopping and displaying in a mode indicating a "normal win". Also, when the game state is the time-saving state, the normal accessory control means 224 controls the normal accessory 54 to operate such that after the normal accessory 54 becomes in the enlarged state, it returns to the reduced state until the time B (for example, 6 seconds) which is longer than the time A elapses, triggered by the normal symbol stopping and displaying in a mode indicating a "normal win".

[0066] Therefore, when a "normal win" occurs in the normal symbol lottery, if the game state is not the time-saving state, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease of entry of the game balls into the second starting port 49 hardly increases. However, if the game state is the time-saving state, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease of entry of the game balls into the second starting port 49 increases. In the present embodiment, in the time-saving state, the normal accessory 54 is controlled to operate so that the entry of the game balls into the second starting port 49 is easier than in the normal state. Therefore, the time-saving state is a game state more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

[0067] The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means) acquires a special symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first starting port switch 100 that detects each game ball entering the first starting port 46, and stores it as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. Further, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a special symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second starting port switch 103 that detects each game ball entering the second starting port 49, and stores it as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a special symbol lottery for determining the winning or losing of a big win or the like using the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914.

[0068] In the special random number storage means 2914, four first special hold storage areas, namely, first special hold storage areas 1 to 4, are provided as storage areas for storing the acquired first special random number values. One first relevant special hold storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the first special random number value read from the first special hold storage area 1 until the variable display and stop display of the first special symbol are completed.

[0069] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100, if the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4, the acquired random number value for special symbol lottery is first stored as the first special random number value in the first special hold memory area 1. Then, when the first special random number value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not in the variable display or stop display state, that is, the first special random number value is not stored in the first special hold memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and the small win game is not being executed, the first special random number value is immediately read out from the first special hold memory area 1 to conduct a special symbol lottery, and the first special random number value used for the special symbol lottery is stored in the first special hold memory area. On the other hand, if the first special symbol is in the variable display or stop display state, that is, the first special random number value is stored in the first special hold memory area, or the game state is a special game state, or the small win game is being executed, the first special random number value is held in the first special hold memory area 1.

[0070] And when a detection signal is further input from the first start port switch 100 and a random number value for special symbol lottery is acquired while the first special random number value is being held in the first special hold memory area 1, the special symbol lottery means 230 stores the first special random number value as the first special random number value in the first special hold memory area among the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4 where the first special random number value is not being held, and which has the smallest ordinal number, on the condition that the number of first special random numbers being held in the first special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the first special hold number is less than 4.

[0071] The special random number storage means 2914 is provided with four second special reserved storage areas, i.e., the second special reserved storage area 1 to the second special reserved storage area 4, as storage areas for storing the acquired second special random number values. A single second such special reserved storage area is provided as a storage area for storing the second special random number value read from the second special reserved storage area 1 until the variable display and stop display of the special symbol are completed.

[0072] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a special symbol lottery random number value based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, if no second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reserved storage areas 1 to 4, the acquired special symbol lottery random number value is first stored as the second special random number value in the second special reserved storage area 1. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserved storage area 1, if the second special symbol is not in the variable display or stop display state, that is, if no second special random number value is stored in the second such special reserved storage area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the second special random number value is immediately read from the second special reserved storage area 1 to conduct a special symbol lottery, and the second special random number value obtained from the special symbol lottery is stored in the second such special reserved storage area. On the other hand, if the second special symbol is in the variable display or stop display state, that is, if a second special random number value is stored in the second such special reserved storage area, or if the game state is a special game state or a small win game is being executed, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserved storage area 1.

[0073] When a detection signal is input from the second start port switch 103 and a special symbol lottery random value is obtained while the second special hold random value is being held in the second special hold memory area 1, the special symbol lottery means 230 stores it as the second special random value in the second special hold memory area where the second special random value is not being held among the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 and where the ordinal number is the smallest, on the condition that the number of second special random values being held in the second special hold memory areas 1 to 4 is less than 4, that is, on the condition that the second special hold number is less than 4.

[0074] When the variable display and stop display of the first special symbol end, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random value stored in the first corresponding special hold memory area. When a first special random value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1, on the condition that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed, the first special random value is read from the first special hold memory area 1 to conduct a special symbol lottery, and the first special random value for which the special symbol lottery has been conducted is stored in the first corresponding special hold memory area. Also, when the variable display and stop display of the second special symbol end, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random value stored in the second corresponding special hold memory area. When a second special random value is stored in the second special hold memory area 1, on the condition that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed, the second special random value is read from the second special hold memory area 1 to conduct a special symbol lottery, and the second special random value for which the special symbol lottery has been conducted is stored in the second corresponding special hold memory area. In the present embodiment, in order to consume the first special random value and the second special random value in parallel, the variable display of the second special symbol may be started during the variable display of the first special symbol, or the variable display of the first special symbol may be started during the variable display of the second special symbol.

[0075] In addition, when the first special reserved random value is stored in the first special reserved memory area 1, on the condition that the second special random value is not stored in any of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 4, the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery. When the second special random value is stored in any of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 4, even if the first special random value is stored in any of the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random value may be read from the second special reserved memory area 1 to perform a special symbol lottery. That is, the second special random value may be preferentially consumed over the first special random value. Further, regardless of whether it is the first special random value or the second special random value, the first special random value or the second special random value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery. That is, the first special random value or the second special random value may be consumed in the order in which the game balls enter the first start port 46 or the second start port 49.

[0076] When the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if the first special random value remains in the areas after the first special reserved memory area 2, or when the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if the second special random value remains in the areas after the second special reserved memory area 2, the remaining first special random value or second special random value is moved from the original special reserved memory area to the special reserved memory area with an ordinal number one less. For example, when the first special random value is read from the first special reserved memory area 1, if the first special random value remains in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4, the first special random value stored in each of the first special reserved memory areas 2 to 4 is moved to each of the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 3. When the second special random value is read from the second special reserved memory area 1, if the second special random value remains in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3, the second special random value stored in each of the second special reserved memory areas 2 to 3 is moved to each of the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 2.

[0077] In the special random number storage means 2914, up to 4 first special random values for which the special symbol lottery has not been performed are reserved in the first special reserved memory areas 1 to 4. Also, up to 4 second special random values for which the special symbol lottery has not been performed are reserved in the second special reserved memory areas 1 to 4.

[0078] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be described. The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a plurality of types of random values such as a jackpot determination random value and a symbol determination random value as special symbol lottery random values based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and stores these plurality of types of random values in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random value or the second special random value. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, etc. as the special symbol lottery.

[0079] The jackpot determination process is a process of reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special hold memory area 1 or the second special hold memory area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914 and determining whether it is a jackpot or not. Here, one jackpot determination random number value is obtained from 65,536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65,535 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number storage means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0080] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the plurality of types of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to for the random number determination process according to whether the read one jackpot determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a jackpot lottery table A shown in FIG. 6(a) and a jackpot lottery table B shown in FIG. 6(b). In each jackpot lottery table, a jackpot or the like is associated with each of the 65,536 jackpot determination random number values from 0 to 65,535.

[0082] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that "jackpot" wins with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65,536) and "loss" wins with a probability of 349 / 350 (65,349 / 65,536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the jackpot lottery table A and determines whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the first special hold memory area 1 is associated with "jackpot" or "loss", thereby determining whether "jackpot" or "loss" has won. Note that in the present embodiment, the probability of winning "jackpot" or "loss" in the first special symbol lottery does not change according to the game state.

[0083] The big win lottery table B is selected when performing the big win determination process for the second special random number value. The correspondence between each determination result and the big win determination random number value is set such that "big win" is won with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65536), and "small win" is won with a probability of 1 / 139.8 (469 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the big win lottery table B and determines whether the "big win" or "small win" has been won by determining whether the big win determination random number value read from the second special hold memory area 1 is associated with "big win" or "small win". In this embodiment, the probability of winning "big win" or "small win" in the second special symbol lottery does not change according to the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases of winning a hit (big win or small win) and not winning a hit.

[0084] The symbol determination process is a process performed when winning "big win" or "small win" in the big win determination process. The symbol determination process reads out one symbol determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special hold memory area 1 or the second special hold memory area 1 of the special random number storage means 2914. When winning "big win", it determines which of the plurality of big win symbols (types of big wins) the big win symbol will be, and when winning "small win", it determines which of the plurality of small win symbols (types of small wins) the small win symbol will be. Here, one symbol determination random number value is obtained from 200 symbol determination random number values from 0 to 199 based on the detection signal being input from the first start port switch 100 and the second start port switch 103, and is stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914.

[0085] In the symbol determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to for performing the random number determination process according to whether the read one symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0086] In this embodiment, the lottery table storage means 2910 stores a symbol lottery table A shown in Fig. 7(a), a symbol lottery table B shown in Fig. 7(b), and a symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c). In each symbol lottery table, a predetermined symbol is associated with each symbol determination random number value.

[0087] The symbol lottery table A shown in Fig. 7(a) is selected when winning a "big win" and when the read one symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "big win 1" (10R short 10000) wins with a probability of 0.1 / 100 and "big win 2" (7R short 130) wins with a probability of 99.9 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of big win symbols has won by determining which of the multiple types of big win symbols the read one symbol determination random number value is associated with.

[0088] The symbol lottery table B shown in Fig. 7(b) is selected when winning a "big win" and when the read one symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "big win 3" (10R short 10000) wins with a probability of 12.8 / 100 and "big win 4" (10R short 130) wins with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of big win symbols has won by determining which of the multiple types of big win symbols the read one symbol determination random number value is associated with.

[0089] The symbol lottery table C shown in FIG. 7(c) is selected when a "small win" is won and the read one symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value. The correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "small win 1" (10R short 10000) wins with a probability of 20 / 100 and "small win 2" wins with a probability of 80 / 100 (10R short 130). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines which of the multiple types of small win symbols has won by referring to the symbol lottery table C and determining which of the multiple types of small win symbols the read one symbol determination random number value is associated with.

[0090] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the lottery result of the special symbol lottery, and performs execution processing of the special game and the like. Also, the special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a small win game based on winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery, and performs execution processing of the small win game and the like.

[0091] The special game state is started based on winning a "big win" in the special symbol lottery (the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery), and ends when a special game (big win game) of a predetermined number of rounds (execution times) is executed according to the type (category) of the big win symbol. In the special symbol lottery, when the special game state is started based on winning "big win 1", "big win 3" or "big win 4", the special game state ends on the condition that a special game of 10 rounds from the first round to the tenth round has been executed. In the special symbol lottery, when the special game state is started based on winning "big win 2", the special game state ends on the condition that a special game of 7 rounds from the first round to the seventh round has been executed. Although details will be described later, when winning a "big win" in the special symbol lottery, at the end of the special game state, a predetermined short time count corresponding to the big win symbol is set and the short time state is started.

[0092] The small win gaming state is started based on winning a "small win" in the special symbol lottery (the second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of small win games (one time in this embodiment) are executed. In the small win game, the special accessory 56 becomes an open state that allows the game ball to enter the big winning opening 50, and the distribution means is displaced from the non-specific area passing state to the specific area passing state. Specifically, in the small win game, the distribution means is displaced from the non-specific area passing state to the specific area passing state so that it is easy (possible) for the game ball to pass through the specific area by the game ball that has entered the big winning opening 50 during the execution of the small win game. Thereby, when winning either "small win 1" or "small win 2" in the second special symbol lottery, it becomes easy (possible) for the game ball to pass through the specific area in the small win gaming state. And when the passage of the game ball through the specific area is detected in the small win gaming state (when the passage of the game ball that has entered the big winning opening 50 during the execution of the small win game through the specific area is detected), based on the end of the small win gaming state, the special gaming state is started.

[0093] When winning "small win 1" in the second special symbol lottery and the passage of the game ball through the specific area is detected in the small win gaming state, the number of times of the special game (round game) is set to 9 times. Thereby, 10 rounds will be executed with the small win game as the first round game. And the special gaming state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of the special game have been executed. Also, when winning "small win 2" in the second special symbol lottery and the passage of the game ball through the specific area is detected in the small win gaming state, the number of times of the special game (round game) is set to 9 times. Thereby, 10 rounds will be executed with the small win game as the first round game. And the special gaming state ends on the condition that 10 rounds of the special game have been executed. Details will be described later, but at the end of the special gaming state, a predetermined short-time number of times corresponding to the small win symbol is set, and the short-time state is started. In addition, when the passage of the game ball through the specific area is not detected in the small win gaming state (when the passage of the game ball that has entered the big winning opening 50 during the execution of the small win game through the specific area is not detected), the special gaming state is not started, and the normal state is started.

[0094] In this embodiment, in each special game (including small win games) of each round, after the special accessory 56 becomes open, the release timer of the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (29 seconds), or when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, a value corresponding to one game ball (for example, 1) is added. When the value of the large winning count counter (not shown) of the main memory 290 reaches the upper limit value (for example, 10), the end condition of the special game is satisfied, and drive control of the special accessory drive device is performed so that the special accessory 56 becomes closed. In this embodiment, when referring to a special game, it may include a small win game. Also, when referring to a special game, it is not limited to referring to one round game, and may refer to the entire round game consisting of multiple rounds (for example, a 10R special game).

[0095] The special display control means 240 performs a first special symbol display control process, a second special symbol display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the lottery result of the special symbol lottery.

[0096] The first special symbol display control process is a process performed when a first special random value is read from the first special hold memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed. The special display control means 240 blinks the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until the fluctuation time elapses to variably display the first special symbol, and then lights the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner to stop displaying the first special symbol.

[0097] The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) as the special symbol lottery. The special display control means 240 blinks the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 until the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process elapses to variably display the first special symbol, and then lights the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner to stop displaying the first special symbol.

[0098] In this embodiment, the display modes of the 7-segment displays corresponding to each of the big win symbol and the small win symbol are predetermined. In the big win determination process, the special display control means 240 lights up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a mode according to whether or not a "big win" has been won, and in the case of winning a "big win" in the big win determination process, lights up the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a mode corresponding to the big win symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the first special symbol, and displays the result of the special symbol lottery on the first special symbol display unit 76.

[0099] The second special symbol display control process is a process performed when a second special random value is read from the second special hold storage area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed. The special display control means 240 causes the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 to blink until the elapse of the variation time, thereby variably displaying the second special symbol, and then lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined mode to stop the display of the second special symbol.

[0100] The special symbol lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) as a special symbol lottery. The special display control means 240 causes the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 to blink until the elapse of the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process, thereby variably displaying the second special symbol, and then lights up the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 in a predetermined mode to stop the display of the second special symbol.

[0101] In the jackpot determination process, the special display control means 240 causes the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 to light up in a manner corresponding to whether "jackpot" or "minor win" has been selected in the jackpot determination process, and in the case of selecting "jackpot" in the jackpot determination process, in a manner corresponding to the jackpot symbol determined in the symbol determination process, and in the case of selecting "minor win" in the jackpot determination process, in a manner corresponding to the minor win symbol determined in the symbol determination process, thereby stopping the display of the second special symbol and displaying the result of the special symbol lottery on the second special symbol display unit 81.

[0102] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 causes the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 to light up, turn off, or blink in a combination corresponding to the number of first special random values stored in the special random number storage means 2914, thereby displaying 0 to 4 first special hold numbers.

[0103] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 causes the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82 to light up, turn off, or blink in a combination corresponding to the number of second special random values stored in the special random number storage means 2914, thereby displaying 0 to 4 second special hold numbers.

[0104] In this embodiment, a relatively short variation time is set when no win is selected, and a relatively long variation time can be set in both cases of not winning and winning. Also, in the time-saving state, a short variation time is relatively often set as the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the frequency of the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery is higher.

[0105] The special symbol lottery means 230 (preliminary determination means) also performs jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, variable pattern determination processing, etc. as preliminary determination processing when storing the first special random number value or the second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a special symbol lottery random number value from the random number generation means 210 based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100 or the second start opening switch 103, before storing it as the first special random number value in any of the first special hold storage areas 1 to 4, or before storing it as the second special random number value in any of the second special hold storage areas 1 to 4, depending on the game state and the number of holds at that time, jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, variable pattern determination processing, etc. are performed as preliminary determination processing for the first special random number value or the second special random number value. Note that in the preliminary determination processing, it is not the same processing (for example, lottery processing based on the same table) as the jackpot determination processing and symbol determination processing that are executed when the variation based on the special symbol lottery random number value actually stored as a hold is executed, but it may be configured to have dedicated processing for preliminary determination (jackpot preliminary determination processing, symbol preliminary determination processing).

[0106] The special symbol lottery means 230 transmits a preliminary determination result including the results of each of the jackpot determination processing, symbol determination processing, etc. as preliminary determination processing to the sub-control board 202 (effect control means 300) as preliminary determination result information, and stores it in any of the first special hold storage areas 1 to 4 in association with the first special random number value that was the subject of the preliminary determination processing (or stores it in any of the second special hold storage areas 1 to 4 in association with the second special random number value that was the subject of the preliminary determination processing).

[0107] In this embodiment, when winning a "big win" in the special symbol lottery (the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery), a special game state is started in which it is possible (easy) for game balls to enter the big winning opening 50. Also, when winning a "small win" in the second special symbol lottery, a small win game state in which it is possible (easy) for game balls to enter the big winning opening 50 is started. When it is detected that a game ball that has entered the big winning opening 50 in the small win game state passes through a specific area, a special game state in which it is possible (easy) for game balls to enter the big winning opening 50 is started. By causing a game ball to enter the big winning opening 50, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls. In this embodiment, the probability of shifting to the special game state based on the second special symbol lottery is higher than the probability of shifting to the special game state based on the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, "small win" is not set as the lottery result, and the game state shifts only when winning a "big win". On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, "big win" and "small win" are set as the lottery results. When winning a "big win", the game state shifts to the special game state, and when winning a "small win" and it is detected that a game ball passes through a specific area in the small win game state, the game state shifts to the special game state.

[0108] In this embodiment, the probability of determining a shift to the special game state is higher when obtaining an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery than when obtaining an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery. As described above, in order to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery, it is necessary to cause a game ball to enter (enter) the second start opening 49 when winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery and the normal accessory 54 (normal electric accessory) is in an open state (released state). Also, the ease of entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49 (the ease of causing a game ball to enter) varies depending on the game state.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 8, the game state transition control means 250 performs a game state transition control process for transitioning the game state between each game state based on the establishment of a predetermined condition (transition condition).

[0110] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is a game state corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of game states. As described above, in the normal state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than that in the time-shortening state. Also, even when winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease of entry of the game ball into the second starting port 49 hardly increases. For this reason, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to make the game ball enter the second starting port 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. In the normal state, in order to obtain an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery, it is more advantageous for the player to perform a left hit so that the game ball enters the first starting port 46 than to perform a right hit. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which a left hit should be performed.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 8, based on winning a "big win" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state, a transition is made to a special game state. As shown in FIG. 7(a), when winning a "big win 1" in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 times is set as the time-shortening number at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-shortening state based on the end of the special game state. Also, when winning a "big win 2" in the special symbol lottery, 130 times is set as the time-shortening number at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-shortening state based on the end of the special game state.

[0112] (Time-shortening state) As described above, in the time-shortening state (specific game state), the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is higher than that in the normal state. Also, when winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery, the normal accessory 54 operates so that the ease of entry of the game ball into the second starting port 49 increases. For this reason, in the time-shortening state, compared with the normal state, it is easier to make the game ball enter the second starting port 49. In other words, it is easier to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery. In the time-shortening state, in order to obtain an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery, it is more advantageous for the player to perform a right hit so that the game ball passes through the passing gate 48 than to perform a left hit. In other words, the time-shortening state is a game state in which a right hit should be performed.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 8, based on winning a "big win" or "small win" in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) in the time-saving state, a transition is made to a special game state (including passing through the small win game state). As shown in FIG. 7(b), when winning a "big win 3" in the special symbol lottery, 10,000 times is set as the time-saving count at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. Also, when winning a "big win 4" in the special symbol lottery, 130 times is set as the time-saving count at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. Further, when winning a "small win 1" in the special symbol lottery and the passage of a specific area by a game ball is detected in the small win game state, 10,000 times is set as the time-saving count at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state. Also, when winning a "small win 2" in the special symbol lottery and the passage of a specific area by a game ball is detected in the small win game state, 130 times is set as the time-saving count at the end of the special game state, and a transition is made to the time-saving state based on the end of the special game state.

[0114] The game state transition control means 250 determines that the end condition (predetermined condition) of the time-saving state is satisfied based on the fact that the number of variable displays of the second special symbol in the time-saving state has reached 130 times (or 10,000 times), ends the time-saving state, and makes a transition to the normal state. In the present embodiment, at the end of the special game state, a time-saving count corresponding to the type of winning symbol is set in the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915 in the main memory 290, and each time the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915. Then, based on the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaching "0", the time-saving end condition is satisfied, the time-saving state ends, and the normal state starts. Note that in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the time-saving end condition is satisfied when the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but it is not limited to this, and it may be configured such that the time-saving end condition is satisfied when the storage value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "130" (or "10,000").

[0115] The normal state is a gaming state where left-handed shots are more advantageous than right-handed shots, and the time-saving state is a gaming state where right-handed shots are more advantageous than left-handed shots. In the time-saving state, it is easier to make the game balls enter the second starting port 49 than in the normal state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the entry of the game balls into the second starting port 49 has a higher probability of determining a transition to a special gaming state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, in the time-saving state, the probability of determining a transition to a special gaming state is higher than in the normal state.

[0116] Returning to FIG. 5 for explanation. The payout control means 270 performs control to (electronically) pay out a number of game balls corresponding to the number of prize balls predetermined for each detection signal based on the detection signals input from the first starting port switch 100, the detection signal from the second starting port switch 103, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, and the detection signal from the count switch 104.

[0117] The communication control means 280 performs control to transmit various commands generated according to various calculation results in the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 and the frame control board 201. In this embodiment, only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible between the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202, and they are communicatively connected so that the sub-control board 202 cannot transmit information to the main control board 200.

[0118] Next, the sub-control board 202 will be described. The sub-control board 202 includes an effect control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0119] The performance control means 300 controls the performance device based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switches 150, and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302. By controlling the performance device, such as turning on or flashing the front frame lamp 12 and the lighting device 38, displaying a performance image on the liquid crystal display 32, controlling the audio device to output performance sound from the speaker 14, or driving the performance object driving device to operate the performance object (props), the performance control means 300 causes the performance device to execute performances for enlivening or assisting the game (controls various performance devices).

[0120] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32. The performance control means 300 draws an image in the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 every 1 frame (1 / 30 second) based on these performance image data, and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a video on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0121] The performance control means 300 determines the performance content to be executed based on various commands transmitted from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switches 150, etc. The performance control means 300 performs control regarding the display in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, for example, based on the determined performance content.

[0122] When the first special random value is read and the special symbol lottery is conducted, until a predetermined variable time elapses, the first special symbol is variably displayed by blinking the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 (FIG. 4), and then the first special symbol is stopped and displayed by lighting the 7-segment display of the first special symbol display unit 76 in a predetermined manner. Further, when the second special random value is read and the special symbol lottery is conducted, until a predetermined variable time elapses, the second special symbol is variably displayed by blinking the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 81 (FIG. 4), and then the second special symbol is stopped and displayed by lighting the 7-segment display of the second special symbol display unit 80 in a predetermined manner.

[0123] The display (variable display, stop display) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol on the 7-segment display is not very appealing visually. Therefore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, an effect (variable display effect, stop display effect) of displaying an effect symbol on the liquid crystal display 32 is executed. As the effect symbols, for example, there are three types: a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol. The left effect symbol is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, the middle effect symbol is displayed in the middle (center) part of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and the right effect symbol is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32. As the left effect symbol, there are nine types of effect symbols (effect symbol columns) representing the numbers from "1" to "9". Each of the nine types of effect symbols may be configured to include characters or the like together with the numbers. Also, the middle effect symbol and the right effect symbol are also composed of nine types of effect symbols (effect symbol columns) in the same manner as the left effect symbol.

[0124] Here, an example of the variable display effect and the stop display effect when losing in the special symbol lottery (big win determination process) will be described. The variable display effect is executed from when the variable display of the special symbol starts until the special symbol stops being displayed. Along with the start of the variation of the special symbol (referred to as the first special symbol), the variable display effect starts in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, and each effect symbol column scrolls and is displayed. The left effect symbol column is scrolled and displayed so as to flow from top to bottom in the left side part in the display area 32a. Also, the middle effect symbol column and the right effect symbol column are similarly scrolled and displayed vertically (in the vertical direction).

[0125] When a predetermined time (for example, about half of the variation time) has elapsed since the start of the variation of the first special symbol, first, the variation (scroll) of the left effect symbol column stops. Also, following the left effect symbol column, the variation (scroll) of the right effect symbol column stops.

[0126] The stop display effect is an effect that notifies that the special symbol has stopped being displayed and notifies the result of the special symbol lottery as a combination of effect symbols. In this example, along with the stop display of the first special symbol, the variation (scroll) of the middle effect symbol column stops. The middle effect symbol stops at a position that is horizontally in a straight line with the left effect symbol and the right effect symbol. When the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss and the first special symbol stops being displayed in a losing mode, on the liquid crystal display 32, a stop display effect for stopping the display of the effect symbol in a losing mode is performed. For example, the combination of the effect symbols becomes a losing combination of "8" - "1" - "3", and it is notified via the liquid crystal display 32 that the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss. Through such an effect, the result of the special symbol lottery is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, so that the player can more easily recognize the result of the special symbol lottery. Also, through such an effect, the player can be made to have an expectation feeling for winning.

[0127] When winning, for example, a reach effect may be executed during the variable display effect. Then, after the reach effect, a stop display effect for stopping and displaying the display symbols in the winning mode is executed. The fluctuations in the left display symbol column and the right display symbol column stop, and the middle display symbol column is in a fluctuating state. The stopped left display symbol and the right display symbol are the same type of display symbol, and the combination of the display symbols is, for example, "5" - "fluctuating" - "5", which is the reach state. When the reach state occurs, the reach effect is executed (started).

[0128] In the stop display effect executed after the reach effect, when the last middle display symbol (representing the number "5") stops and the display symbols stop and are displayed in the big win mode (in this example, "5" - "5" - "5"), it is notified that the big win has been determined. In addition, in the stop display effect, when the last middle display symbol (representing a number other than "5") stops and the display symbols stop and are displayed in the losing mode, it is notified that the loss has been determined.

[0129] As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 of the main control board 200 executes a variable pattern determination process (main variable pattern determination process) based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and determines the variable time of the first special symbol (symbol) or the second special symbol (symbol). Specifically, one of the plurality of types of main variable pattern lottery tables prepared is selected for lottery to determine the main variable pattern. The main control board 200 transmits the main variable pattern information indicating the determined main variable pattern to the sub-control board 202.

[0130] In this embodiment, as the variable time of the second special symbol related to the winning variation, the first winning variation time, the second winning variation time, or the third winning variation time may be set. The second winning variation time is longer than the first winning variation time, and the third winning variation time is longer than the second winning variation time. Note that the winning variation means the variation of the special symbol related to obtaining a win (winning in the draw) as a result of the special symbol lottery.

[0131] Also, as described above, in the present embodiment, at the end of the special game state, a short-time count corresponding to the type of winning symbol is set in the memory value of the short-time counter 2915 in the main memory 290, and each time the variable display of the second special symbol is performed in the short-time state, "1" is subtracted from the memory value of the short-time counter 2915. Based on the fact that the memory value of the short-time counter 2915 has been subtracted (based on the start of the variable display of the second special symbol), the main control board 200 transmits information indicating the memory value of the short-time counter 2915 (remaining short-time count information) to the sub-control board 202.

[0132] Here, in the short-time state (short-time count: 130 times), a state where the memory value of the short-time counter 2915 is "130" is defined as the remaining short-time count being 130. Also, a period during which the remaining short-time count is 130 to 81 is defined as the first period (opening stage) in the short-time state, a period during which the remaining short-time count is 80 to 21 is defined as the second period (middle stage) in the short-time state, and a period during which the remaining short-time count is 20 to 1 is defined as the third period (ending stage) in the short-time state. Hereinafter, the "short-time state" will be described as referring to the short-time state with a short-time count of 130 times, but it may be similarly configured in the short-time state with a short-time count of 10,000 times.

[0133] The first period is a period during which the number of variable displays (number of variations) of the second special symbol in the short-time state is 1 to 50, the second period is a period during which the number of variable displays of the second special symbol in the short-time state is 51 to 110, and the third period is a period during which the number of variable displays of the second special symbol in the short-time state is 111 to 130. Note that the division between the first period to the third period is not limited to this, and it may be each period when the short-time count (130) is roughly divided into three equal parts, for example. The effect control means 300 can determine which period in the short-time state it is currently in based on the received remaining short-time count information.

[0134] (Sub-variable pattern determination process) The sub-control board 202 (the effect control means 300) performs sub-variation pattern determination processing based on the information received from the main control board 200. The effect control means 300 selects one of the plurality of prepared sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the main variation pattern information, remaining short-time count information, etc., conducts a lottery, and determines the sub-variation pattern. Hereinafter, the sub-variation pattern determination processing in the short-time state will be described. Also, the main variation pattern information includes that related to winning variations and that related to losing variations. Hereinafter, the sub-variation pattern determination processing when receiving the main variation pattern information related to winning variations will be described.

[0135] (First stage) The effect control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among the plurality of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the winning variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the short-time state, and conducts the first lottery. FIG. 9 shows an example of the sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the first lottery.

[0136] If it is the first period and the first winning variation time, table L1 is selected. When table L1 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the effect pattern A1 is set is 70%, and the probability that the effect pattern B1 is set is 30%.

[0137] If it is the first period and the second winning variation time, table L2 is selected. When table L2 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the effect pattern C1 is set is 70%, and the probability that the effect pattern D1 is set is 30%.

[0138] If it is the first period and the third winning variation time, table L3 is selected. When table L3 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the effect pattern E1 is set is 70%, and the probability that the effect pattern F1 is set is 30%.

[0139] When it is the second period and the variable time per first win, table M1 is selected. When table M1 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern A2 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern B2 is set is 30%.

[0140] When it is the second period and the variable time per second win, table M2 is selected. When table M2 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern C2 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern D2 is set is 30%.

[0141] When it is the second period and the variable time per third win, table M3 is selected. When table M3 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern E2 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern F2 is set is 30%.

[0142] When it is the third period and the variable time per first win, table N1 is selected. When table N1 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern A3 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern B3 is set is 30%.

[0143] When it is the third period and the variable time per second win, table N2 is selected. When table N2 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern C3 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern D3 is set is 30%.

[0144] When it is the third period and the variable time per third win, table N3 is selected. When table N3 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that production pattern E3 is set is 70%, and the probability that production pattern F3 is set is 30%.

[0145] In addition, in FIG. 9, each table includes two production patterns, and it is assumed that one of the two production patterns is determined. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be configured such that one of two or more production patterns is determined.

[0146] (Second stage) After executing the first lottery, the performance control means 300 executes the second lottery and determines whether to set the sub-variation pattern as a sub-variation pattern accompanied by the execution of a specific performance (described later). FIG. 10 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the second lottery. The performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among a plurality of types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the period in the time-saving state, and conducts the second lottery.

[0147] (Specific performance) The specific performance is a performance that notifies the determination of a win, that is, a one-shot notification performance. The specific performance may be, for example, a special flash performance in which the lighting device 38 emits light in a predetermined manner, or a special button performance in which the performance button 26 emits light in a predetermined manner and a predetermined sound (cue) is output. When the specific performance is executed, the player can grasp that the variation is a winning variation (having won a prize) and can be immersed in joy.

[0148] In the present embodiment, the specific performance is a performance that notifies the determination of a win, but it is not limited to this, and it may be a performance that suggests a high probability of winning (for example, a cut-in performance or a shake vision performance). In other words, the specific performance may be a performance that suggests a high reliability of winning (a high-reliability performance).

[0149] In the case of the first period, Table X is selected. When Table X is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific performance execution" is set is 95%, and the probability that "specific performance execution" is set is 5%.

[0150] In the case of the second period, Table Y is selected. When Table Y is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific performance execution" is set is 90%, and the probability that "specific performance execution" is set is 10%.

[0151] In the case of the third period, Table Z is selected. When Table Z is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific effect is executed" is set to 50%, and the probability that "specific effect is executed" is set to 50%.

[0152] In the present embodiment, the sub-variation patterns that can be set when it is a winning variation in the time-saving state include pattern A1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern A1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern B1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern B1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern C1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern C1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern D1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern D1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern E1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern E1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern F1 without execution of a specific effect, pattern F1 with execution of a specific effect, pattern A2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern A2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern B2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern B2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern C2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern C2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern D2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern D2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern E2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern E2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern F2 without execution of a specific effect, pattern F2 with execution of a specific effect, pattern A3 without execution of a specific effect, pattern A3 with execution of a specific effect, pattern B3 without execution of a specific effect, pattern B3 with execution of a specific effect, pattern C3 without execution of a specific effect, pattern C3 with execution of a specific effect, pattern D3 without execution of a specific effect, pattern D3 with execution of a specific effect, pattern E3 without execution of a specific effect, pattern E3 with execution of a specific effect, pattern F3 without execution of a specific effect, and pattern F3 with execution of a specific effect.

[0153] In this embodiment, the modes of the effects executed in the first period, the second period, and the third period are configured to be different. Also, the modes of the effects executed are configured to be different according to the length of the winning variation time. Also, it can be said that each pattern may or may not involve the execution of a specific effect.

[0154] (Lottery in one go) In this embodiment, although the two-stage lottery of the first lottery and the second lottery is executed, a one-stage lottery (lottery in one go) may be executed and configured such that a sub-variation pattern is determined. FIG. 11 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected by the lottery in one go. In FIG. 11, "-" means that the execution of a specific effect is not involved, and "+" means that the execution of a specific effect is involved.

[0155] When it is the first period and the first winning variation time, table L1 is selected. When table L1 is selected and the lottery in one go is executed, the probability that "pattern A1-" is set is 66.5%, the probability that "pattern A1+" is set is 3.5%, the probability that "pattern B1-" is set is 28.5%, and the probability that "pattern B1+" is set is 1.5%.

[0156] When it is the first period and the second winning variation time, table L2 is selected. When table L2 is selected and the lottery in one go is executed, the probability that "pattern C1-" is set is 66.5%, the probability that "pattern C1+" is set is 3.5%, the probability that "pattern D1-" is set is 28.5%, and the probability that "pattern D1+" is set is 1.5%.

[0157] When it is the first period and the third winning variation time, table L3 is selected. When table L3 is selected and the lottery in one go is executed, the probability that "pattern E1-" is set is 66.5%, the probability that "pattern E1+" is set is 3.5%, the probability that "pattern F1-" is set is 28.5%, and the probability that "pattern F1+" is set is 1.5%.

[0158] In the case of the second period and the variable time per first hit, Table M1 is selected. When Table M1 is selected and a batch lottery is executed, the probability of setting "Pattern A2-" is 63%, the probability of setting "Pattern A2+" is 7%, the probability of setting "Pattern B2-" is 27%, and the probability of setting "Pattern B2+" is 3%.

[0159] In the case of the second period and the variable time per second hit, Table M2 is selected. When Table M2 is selected and a batch lottery is executed, the probability of setting "Pattern C2-" is 63%, the probability of setting "Pattern C2+" is 7%, the probability of setting "Pattern D2-" is 27%, and the probability of setting "Pattern D2+" is 3%.

[0160] In the case of the second period and the variable time per third hit, Table M3 is selected. When Table M3 is selected and a batch lottery is executed, the probability of setting "Pattern E2-" is 63%, the probability of setting "Pattern E2+" is 7%, the probability of setting "Pattern F2-" is 27%, and the probability of setting "Pattern F2+" is 3%.

[0161] In the case of the third period and the variable time per first hit, Table N1 is selected. When Table N1 is selected and a batch lottery is executed, the probability of setting "Pattern A3-" is 35%, the probability of setting "Pattern A3+" is 35%, the probability of setting "Pattern B3-" is 15%, and the probability of setting "Pattern B3+" is 15%.

[0162] In the case of the third period and the variable time per second hit, Table N2 is selected. When Table N2 is selected and a batch lottery is executed, the probability of setting "Pattern C3-" is 35%, the probability of setting "Pattern C3+" is 35%, the probability of setting "Pattern D3-" is 15%, and the probability of setting "Pattern D3+" is 15%.

[0163] In the case of the third period and the third per-variation time, Table N3 is selected. When Table N3 is selected and the batch lottery is executed, the probability that "Pattern E3-" is set is 35%, the probability that "Pattern E3+" is set is 35%, the probability that "Pattern F3-" is set is 15%, and the probability that "Pattern F3+" is set is 15%.

[0164] Note that a plurality of types of specific effects are prepared as specific effects, and when the execution of a specific effect is determined, which one of the specific effects (for example, a special flash effect or a special button effect) is to be executed may be determined by lottery (lottery related to the sub-variation pattern determination process). Although illustration is omitted, in the above-described second lottery (FIG. 10), it may be configured such that any one of "no specific effect execution", "specific effect execution (special flash effect)", or "specific effect execution (special button effect)" is determined.

[0165] In this embodiment (including the case of batch lottery), in the time-saving state, the probability of a specific effect appearing (occurring) in the per-variation increases as the remaining number of variations (the number of variation displays of the second special symbol) decreases.

[0166] In this embodiment, the time-saving state is divided into a first period, a second period, and a third period, but the number of divisions is not limited to "3", and it may be divided into two sections, the first half and the second half, or may be divided into four or more sections. In other words, it is sufficient if it is divided into at least two (two sections). For example, the remaining number of time-saving times "65" is set as a specific number, the section where the remaining number of time-saving times is more than "65" is set as the first section, and the section where the remaining number of time-saving times is "65" or less is set as the second section, and the probability of a specific effect appearing in the per-variation may be higher in the second section than in the first section.

[0167] By making the probability of executing a specific effect in the second half (second section) of the time shortening state higher than the probability of executing a specific effect in the first half (first section) of the time shortening state, it is possible to give the player different gaming experiences in the first half and the second half, and improve the interest of the game compared to the case where the probability of executing a specific effect in the time shortening state is always constant. In the time shortening state, the desire of the player who hopes to win increases as the remaining number of time shortening times decreases. Therefore, when a specific effect is executed in the final stage (second half) of the time shortening state, the player's joy will be even greater. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to increase the frequency of giving the player great joy in the final stage of the time shortening state, and can improve the interest of the game.

[0168] Incidentally, in the main variation pattern determination process (lottery) in the time shortening state, the table used in the lottery can be changed according to the remaining number of time shortening times, for example, the variation time of the second special symbol can be changed between the first half and the second half of the time shortening state, and the performance mode executed in accordance with the change in the variation time can be changed. For example, the lottery ratios are made different between the first half and the second half, and the table selected in the first half has a higher probability of winning a short variation time (high-speed variation time) as the variation time of the second special symbol compared to the table selected in the second half (where "higher" includes a winning probability of 100%). In other words, the first half is configured such that the probability of selecting a relatively short variation time is high, and the second half is configured such that the probability of selecting the basic variation time (normal variation time) is high. Then, different performances corresponding to each section are executed in the high-speed variation section (for example, 30 times) in the first half and the normal variation section (for example, 100 times) in the second half. By switching the performance mode during the execution of the effect in the time shortening state, the interest of the game can be improved.

[0169] However, when the main variation pattern determination process is executed based on whether the variation of the special symbol is a winning one or a losing one, the current gaming state, the number of holds, etc., and further configured to perform a lottery with reference to the remaining number of time shortening times, the process becomes complicated (the development scale becomes large), and the labor and cost required for development increase.

[0170] In this embodiment, in the time-saving state, the winning probability (table) of the lottery related to the main variation pattern (variation seconds) is not changed according to the remaining number of time-saving times. Therefore, the complication of the process can be suppressed, and the labor and cost required for development can be reduced. In this embodiment, as described above, the winning probability (table: information used for the production lottery) of the lottery related to the sub-variation pattern is changed according to the remaining number of time-saving times, and the appearance rate of the specific production is changed.

[0171] In this embodiment, the table selected in the second half (third period) has a higher probability of "with specific production execution" winning than the table selected in the first half (first period or second period). In other words, the smaller the remaining number of time-saving times, the higher the probability that a specific production appears in the winning variation (the sub-variation pattern in which the specific production appears is determined).

[0172] In the time-saving state, even when the winning type is the same winning symbol, and the winning variation time of the second special symbol is the same winning variation time, and the composition of the production related to the variation (for example, the presence or absence of the reach production) is the same, different sub-variation patterns are determined according to in which period of the time-saving state the result was obtained (for example, the first period, the second period, or the third period). Thereby, the tendency of the appearing production can be made different.

[0173] In the time-saving state, The productions that can occur in the first period (beginning) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the second period (middle) and the third period (end). Also, The productions that can occur in the second period (middle) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the first period (beginning) and the third period (end). Also, The productions that can occur in the third period (end) (for example, the above-mentioned specific production) are configured to be able to occur also in the first period (beginning) and the second period (middle).

[0174] In the time-saving state, When configured so that a predetermined effect does not occur during the first period (opening), it may be configured so that the effect also does not occur during the second period (middle) and the third period (ending). Also, When configured so that a predetermined effect does not occur during the second period (middle), it may be configured so that the effect also does not occur during the first period (opening) and the third period (ending). Also, [[ID=G4]] When configured so that a predetermined effect does not occur during the third period (ending), it may be configured so that the effect also does not occur during the first period (opening) and the second period (middle).

[0175] In the time-saving state, A predetermined effect that can occur only during the first period (opening) may be provided. Also, a predetermined effect that can occur only during the second period (middle) may be provided. Also, a predetermined effect that can occur only during the third period (ending) may be provided.

[0176] In the time-saving state, A predetermined effect may be configured so that it does not occur only during the first period (opening). Also, a predetermined effect may be configured so that it does not occur only during the second period (middle). Also, a predetermined effect may be configured so that it does not occur only during the third period (ending).

[0177] (Modification example) Hereinafter, in the time-saving state (the number of time-saving times is 130), the section where the remaining number of time-saving times is more than "65" is defined as the first section, and the section where the remaining number of time-saving times is "65" or less is defined as the second section. Note that the boundary between the first section and the second section is not limited to "65", and other values may be used.

[0178] The sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) performs sub-variation pattern determination processing based on the information received from the main control board 200. The information received by the sub-control board 202 from the main control board 200 includes main variation pattern information and remaining short-time count information. Further, the main variation pattern information includes that indicating a winning variation and that indicating a losing variation. In this modified example, the specific performance is not a performance for notifying the determination of a win, but a performance (such as a cut-in performance or a shake vision performance) that suggests a high expectation of a win (a specific result), and can also be executed in the case of a losing variation. Note that in this modified example, the specific performance may be a reach performance.

[0179] (First stage) The performance control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from among a plurality of types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the short-time state, and performs a first lottery. FIG. 12 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the first lottery.

[0180] When it is the first half (first section) and the losing variation time, table α1 is selected. When table α1 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the performance pattern P1 is set is 60%, and the probability that the performance pattern Q1 is set is 40%.

[0181] When it is the first half (first section) and the first winning variation time, table α2 is selected. When table α2 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the performance pattern R1 is set is 60%, and the probability that the performance pattern S1 is set is 40%.

[0182] When it is the first half (first section) and the second winning variation time, table α3 is selected. When table α3 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the performance pattern T1 is set is 60%, and the probability that the performance pattern U1 is set is 40%.

[0183] When it is the second half (second period) and the losing variation time, Table β1 is selected. When Table β1 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the production pattern P2 is set is 60%, and the probability that the production pattern Q2 is set is 30%.

[0184] When it is the second half (second period) and the first winning variation time, Table β2 is selected. When Table β2 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the production pattern R2 is set is 60%, and the probability that the production pattern S2 is set is 40%.

[0185] When it is the second half (second period) and the second winning variation time, Table β3 is selected. When Table β3 is selected and the first lottery is executed, the probability that the production pattern T2 is set is 60%, and the probability that the production pattern U2 is set is 40%.

[0186] (Second stage) After executing the first lottery, the production control means 300 executes the second lottery and determines whether to set the sub-variation pattern as a sub-variation pattern accompanied by the execution of a specific production. FIG. 13 shows an example of a sub-variation pattern lottery table that can be selected in the second lottery. The production control means 300 selects one sub-variation pattern lottery table from a plurality of types of sub-variation pattern lottery tables based on the variation time of the second special symbol and the period in the time-shortened state, and conducts the second lottery.

[0187] When it is the first half (first period) and the losing variation time, Table γ1 is selected. When Table γ1 is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific production execution" is set is 90%, and the probability that "specific production execution" is set is 10%.

[0188] When it is the first half (first period) and the winning variation time, Table γ2 is selected. When Table γ2 is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific production execution" is set is 50%, and the probability that "specific production execution" is set is 50%.

[0189] When it is the second half (second period) and the deviation variation time, Table γ1 is selected. When Table γ1 is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific effect is executed" is set to 90%, and the probability that "specific effect is executed" is set to 10%.

[0190] When it is the second half (second period) and the winning variation time, Table γ3 is selected. When Table γ3 is selected and the second lottery is executed, the probability that "no specific effect is executed" is set to 10%, and the probability that "specific effect is executed" is set to 90%.

[0191] In the second half (when the remaining short-time counts are fewer), the probability that a specific effect appears (a sub-variation pattern in which a specific effect appears is determined) in the winning variation is higher.

[0192] In the first half, when a specific effect is executed (appears), the probability that the variation is a deviation variation is relatively high (compared to the second half) (the probability that the variation is a winning variation is relatively low). In the second half, when a specific effect is executed (appears), the probability that the variation is a deviation variation is relatively low (compared to the first half) (the probability that the variation is a winning variation is relatively high). The second half has a higher winning expectancy (the expectancy that the result of the special symbol lottery is a specific result) than the first half when a specific effect is executed. In other words, the probability of a false (losing) result is lower in the second half than in the first half when a specific effect occurs.

[0193] Note that the probability (expected value) of winning in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery) does not change between the first period and the second period.

[0194] The gaming machine of this embodiment is a gaming machine that includes a game area (game area 4) where game media move and launches game media into the game area according to the operation of a player, main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game, An effect control means (effect control means 300) that performs control related to effects based on information transmitted from the main control means; A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that conducts a lottery based on the entry of a game medium into a predetermined area (second start port 49) provided in the game area; A symbol display means (second special symbol display unit 81) capable of variably displaying symbols; A state control means (game state transition control means 250) that performs control to transition the game state among a plurality of types of game states including a normal game state (normal state) and a specific game state (time-limited state), The state control means can end the specific game state based on the fact that the number of symbol variations in the specific game state has reached a predetermined number of times, The specific game state includes at least a first section where the remaining number of symbol variations that can be executed is more than a specific number, and a second section where the remaining number of symbol variations that can be executed is less than or equal to the specific number, The result of the lottery includes a specific result (a win), The effect control means can execute a specific effect that suggests a high probability of obtaining the specific result during the symbol variation, The probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result is higher when the specific effect occurs in the second section than in the first section.

[0195] The probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs is higher in the second section than in the first section. Therefore, different gaming sensations can be given to the player between the first section and the second section, and the interest in the game can be improved compared to the case where "the probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs" is constant. The player strongly desires to obtain the specific result in the second section more than in the first section. However, since "the probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs" is higher in the second section, when the specific effect occurs in the second section, the joy (expectation) of the player will be even greater. That is, the player can be excited.

[0196] Also, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the probability of obtaining the specific result in the lottery does not change between the first section and the second section. It is possible to improve the interest in the game without changing the probability itself of obtaining the specific result between the first section and the second section.

[0197] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various modifications without departing from the gist thereof. Also, within the scope of the present invention, free combinations of each embodiment, or modifications of any constituent elements of each embodiment, or omission of any constituent elements in each embodiment are possible. Further, the present invention can also be applied to a conventional pachinko gaming machine, that is, a pachinko gaming machine in which a player can touch a physical game ball and the game ball is paid out to a tray based on the entry of the game ball into a predetermined winning opening.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0198] 4 Gaming area 49 Second start opening (predetermined area) 81 Second special symbol display section (symbol display means) 200 Main control board (main control means) 230 Special symbol lottery means (lottery means) 250 Gaming state transition control means 300 performance control means

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising a gaming area in which gaming media move, and which launches gaming media into the gaming area in response to the operation of a player, main control means for controlling the progress of the game, effect control means for performing control related to effects based on information transmitted from the main control means, lottery means for conducting a lottery based on the entry of a gaming medium into a predetermined area provided in the gaming area, symbol display means capable of variably displaying symbols, state control means for performing control to shift the game state among a plurality of types of game states including a normal game state and a specific game state, and comprising: the state control means is capable of ending the specific game state based on the fact that the number of times of variation of the symbol in the specific game state has reached a predetermined number of times, the specific game state includes at least a first section in which the remaining number of times of variation of the symbol that can be executed is more than a specific number of times, and a second section in which the remaining number of times of variation of the symbol that can be executed is less than or equal to the specific number of times, the result of the lottery includes a specific result, the effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect suggesting that the probability of obtaining the specific result is high during the variation of the symbol, a gaming machine in which the probability that the result of the lottery is the specific result when the specific effect occurs is higher in the second section than in the first section.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the probability of obtaining the specific result in the lottery does not change between the first section and the second section.

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