Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine that enables improvement of the enjoyment in gaming.SOLUTION: The game machine includes: main control means configured to control the progress of the game; effect control means configured to perform effect-related control on the basis of information sent from the main control means; lottery means configured to conduct a lottery when a game medium enters a predetermined region provided in a game area; and operation means operable by a player. The effect control means can execute a specific effect that implies the result of the lottery. The effect control means can set an operation-valid time during which manipulation of the operation means is effective. The probability of occurrence of the specific effect is varied depending on the manipulation time of the operation means within the operation-valid time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

[0003] In addition, some gaming machines of this type are equipped with an effect button that lights up to indicate that the operation is valid, and when an effect button that is not lit up is operated, a specified effect can occur (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-117763 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, there is a demand for gaming machines to enhance the enjoyment of the game.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine that improves the entertainment value of the game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: A gaming machine having a gaming area (gaming area 4) in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game; A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the game medium entering a predetermined area provided in the game area; and operation means (lever 15, effect button 26, etc.) that can be operated by a player, The effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect that suggests a result of the lottery, the performance control means is capable of setting an operation valid time during which operation of the operation means is valid, The probability of the specific effect occurring varies depending on the operation time of the operation means during the effective operation time.

[0008] By making the probability change depending on the operation time, the player can operate the operation means while counting, determine the operation time of the operation means, and select the desired probability of a specific effect occurring. The player's preference can be reflected in the probability of a specific effect occurring, realizing new interactivity in gaming machines. It also increases the player's freedom of choice. This can increase the enjoyment of the game. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the enjoyment of the game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an amusement machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating its external configuration. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 3]FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the game board. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the general configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the jackpot lottery table. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a symbol lottery table. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a state transition diagram of the game state. [Figure 9] This is a diagram explaining the changing and stopping display of the performance patterns and the hold performance. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the operation instruction effects, where (a) shows the button effects and (b) shows the lever effects. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart to explain the processing involved in executing specific effects. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing a table that is referenced in the lottery that determines whether or not a specific effect can be executed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

[0012] Unlike conventional pachinko gaming machines, the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment allows a player to play without touching the gaming balls. The gaming machine 1 is an enclosed circulation type in which a certain number of gaming balls (gaming media) circulate inside the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 is also a gaming machine in which gaming value is used as electronic information, and the gaming value is consumed and paid out through play. In the gaming machine 1, paying out gaming value means electronically paying out (granting) the gaming value. Note that the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 1 and can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, i.e., pachinko gaming machines in which a player can physically touch gaming balls and gaming balls are paid out to a tray when the gaming balls enter a predetermined winning slot.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the exterior configuration of a gaming machine according to this embodiment. The gaming machine of this embodiment includes an outer frame 2 that forms the exterior surface of the gaming machine, a gaming board 6 that is provided inside the gaming machine and forms a gaming area 4 in which gaming balls move, an inner frame 7 that holds the gaming board 6, a glass unit 8 that makes the gaming board 6 visible but inaccessible to players, and a front frame 10 to which the glass unit 8 is attached. The inner frame 7 is attached to the outer frame 2 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The front frame 10 is also attached to the inner frame 7 via a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close. The inner frame 7 (and the front frame 10) can be opened and closed between a closed position (closed state) that 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 surrounding the glass unit 8 is made of a translucent material that transmits light, and inside the portion made of the translucent material are provided a plurality of front frame lamps 12 (lighting means) that output light effects to enhance the game. In addition, speakers 14 (sound output means) that output sounds to enhance the game are provided on the left and right sides of the lower part of the front frame 10.

[0015] A grip unit 20 (handle) is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 10, and when a player rotates the grip unit 20 clockwise toward the gaming machine, a launcher (not shown) provided inside the gaming machine is activated, launching gaming balls into the gaming area 4. The launcher of this embodiment can launch 99 gaming balls per minute (1.65 balls per second).

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, a dedicated unit 400 (game value lending device) that lends game value is provided on the side (left side) of the gaming machine 1 and is connected to the gaming machine 1. The front of the dedicated unit 400 is provided with a bill insertion slot 406 into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion / ejection slot 402 into which a card (game value management medium) can be inserted / ejected, a lending button (lending operation means) 403, a replay button (lending operation means) 404, and a card return button 405. The card is used to manage the number of game values ​​owned by the player. In other words, the number of game values ​​owned by the player can be ascertained by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. In addition, the management of the number of play values ​​by card may be performed by storing the number of play values ​​on the card itself, or by storing the number of play values ​​in a designated management device installed in an amusement facility, etc., and linking the number of play values ​​stored in the management device, etc. with identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or an identification number unique to each card).

[0017] In the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the lending button 403 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring game value to the gaming machine 1. When the lending button 403 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming a stored value stored as a prepaid balance on a bill inserted into the bill insertion slot 406 or a card. In addition, in the dedicated unit 400, an operation (pressing operation) on the replay button 404 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) for transferring game value to the gaming machine 1. When the replay button 404 is pressed, a predetermined number (for example, 125) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 1 by consuming game value owned by the player and managed by the card (game value linked to the card). In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the lending button 403 or the replay button 404 as a lending operation means is accepted as a lending operation (a game value transfer operation), and based on the lending operation, a predetermined amount of game value is transferred (lent) from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, a game value number display device 211 (game ball number display device) and a counting button 212 (counting operation means) are provided on the left side of the front frame 10 (the dedicated unit 400 side). Based on the lending operation on the dedicated unit 400, in the gaming machine 1, a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​is stored in a game value number memory area of ​​the frame control board 201 described below. Hereinafter, the value (stored value) indicated by the game value number memory area will be referred to as the "number of balls in possession" (number of balls in possession). The number of balls in possession can be said to be the number of game values ​​that can be used for playing. The number of balls in possession is displayed on the game value number display device 211. The game value number display device 211 has a 6-digit 7-segment display, and the number of balls in possession is displayed by the 7-segment display.

[0019] The gaming machine 1 is equipped with a frame control board 201 (see FIG. 5), which 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 when a game ball is detected to be launched. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls when a prize ball is paid out. The frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls when a foul ball is detected. When game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 400 to the gaming machine 1, the frame control board 201 also increases the number of held balls by the amount of game value to be transferred. When game value is transferred from the gaming machine 1 to the dedicated unit 400, the frame control board 201 also decreases the number of held balls by the amount of game value to be transferred. The frame control board 201 also controls the display of 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 in the number of held balls.

[0020] The counting button 212 is a button that is operated when transmitting (returning, transferring) all or part of the number of balls held (the game value stored in the game value number storage area) to the dedicated unit 400. The counting button 212 has a pressing portion (operation portion) that is formed so that it can be pressed. When the player wants to end a game, for example, the player operates (presses) the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). When the counting 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 has been transferred to the dedicated unit 400, when an operation (presses) is performed on the card return button 405 of the dedicated unit 400, a card that enables the number of game values ​​owned by the player to be determined is ejected from the dedicated unit 400 (card insertion / ejection port 402).

[0021] 3 is a front view showing the external configuration of the gaming board 6. A circular outer rail 33 is provided on the gaming board 6, and the area surrounded by the outer rail 33 is the gaming area 4 in which gaming balls move. An arc-shaped inner rail 30 is provided on the left end of the gaming area 4 so as to follow the outer rail 33, and the outer rail 33 and the inner rail 30 guide gaming balls launched from a launcher (not shown) provided below the gaming board 6 into the gaming area 4.

[0022] At the center of the game board 6, there is provided a liquid crystal display 32 (effect display device, display means) that displays effect images and the like to enhance the game, and an effect unit 36 ​​that includes a display frame 34 formed to surround the liquid crystal display 32. Above the center of the liquid crystal display 32, there is provided a lighting device 38 (lighting means) that constitutes the effect unit 36 ​​and outputs effect light and the like to enhance the game.

[0023] In this embodiment, the game balls cannot pass in front of the liquid crystal display 32, 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. In addition, in the game area 4, many game nails (not shown) are nailed so as to intersect with the surface of the game board 6, and the moving direction of the game balls moving in the game area 4 changes randomly.

[0024] An opening 40 is formed on the left side of the display frame 34, through which game balls falling in the game area 4a on the left side of the liquid crystal display 32 can pass, and game balls that pass through this opening 40 pass through a passage 42 provided in the display frame 34 and fall onto a stage 44 provided below the liquid crystal display 32. The top surface of this stage 44 is smoothly curved, and a gap is formed between the stage 44 and the glass unit 8, allowing game balls to fall downward from the stage 44, so that game balls that fall onto the stage 44 from the passage 42 move back and forth on the stage 44 before falling downward from near the center of the stage 44.

[0025] A first start opening 46 (first area, predetermined area) is provided below the center of the stage 44, through which game balls (including game balls that have fallen downward from near the center of the stage 44) can enter. A first start opening switch 100 (see FIG. 5) that detects game balls that have entered the first start opening 46 is disposed within the first start opening 46. When the first start opening switch 100 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the first start opening 46), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes a first special symbol lottery (first lottery) as a special symbol lottery. Based on the detection signal input from the first start opening switch 100, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball). The game ball that entered the first start opening 46 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0026] To the left of the first starting opening 46 in the gaming area 4, multiple (three) general winning openings 47 (upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, and lower left general winning opening 47c) are provided. The gaming board 6 is also provided with a general winning opening switch 101 (see FIG. 5) that detects a gaming ball that has entered the upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, or lower left general winning opening 47c. When the general winning opening switch 101 detects a gaming ball (entry of a gaming ball into the upper left general winning opening 47a, middle left general winning opening 47b, or lower left general winning opening 47c), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 then pays out prize balls (for example, three balls) based on the detection signal input from the general winning opening switch 101. One general prize opening switch 101 may be provided for each of the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, or only one may be provided for multiple (for example, three) general prize openings 47. Furthermore, in addition to the upper left general prize opening 47a, the center left general prize opening 47b, and the lower left general prize opening 47c, general prize opening switches corresponding to these general prize openings may also be provided.

[0027] A passage gate 48 through which gaming balls pass without being collected inside the gaming machine is provided in the gaming area 4b on the right side of the liquid crystal display 32. A gate switch 102 (see FIG. 5) that detects the passage of a gaming ball is also provided inside the passage gate 48. When the gate switch 102 detects a gaming ball (passage of the gaming ball through the passage gate 48), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the gate switch 102, the main control board 200 executes a normal symbol lottery that determines whether a normal win has been won.

[0028] In the gaming area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32, a second start opening 49 (second area, predetermined area) is provided below the passage gate 48. A second start opening switch 103 (see FIG. 5) is provided within the second start opening 49 to detect a gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 49. When the second start opening switch 103 detects a gaming ball (entry of a gaming ball into the second start opening 49), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Based on the input of the detection signal from the second start opening switch 103, the main control board 200 executes a second special symbol lottery (second lottery) as a special symbol lottery. Based on the input of the detection signal from the second start opening switch 103, the main control board 200 executes the payout of a prize ball (for example, one ball). The gaming ball that has entered the second start opening 49 is collected inside the gaming machine.

[0029] The second starting opening 49 is provided with a normal role device 54 (first movable member) that can move between a reduced state (closed state) in which it is difficult for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49 (a state in which it is difficult for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49), and an expanded state (open state) in which it is easy for a gaming ball to enter (a state in which it is easy for a gaming ball to enter the second starting opening 49). The normal role device 54 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to enter the expanded state under predetermined conditions when a normal win is won in the normal symbol lottery.

[0030] A special prize opening 50 (third area) is provided in the game area 4b to the right of the liquid crystal display 32. A count switch 104 (see FIG. 5) that detects game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 is disposed within the special prize opening 50. When the count switch 104 detects a game ball (entry of a game ball into the special prize opening 50), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. The main control board 200 executes the payout of prize balls (for example, 15 balls) based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. The main control board 200 also counts the number of game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 based on the input of the detection signal from the count switch 104. The game balls that enter the special prize opening 50 are collected inside the gaming machine.

[0031] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a special device 56 (second movable member, specific movable member) that can move between a closed state (non-entry state) in which game balls cannot enter the large prize opening 50 and an open state (entry state) in which game balls can enter. The special device 56 has a built-in drive device such as a solenoid, and is controlled to open under predetermined conditions in a special game state that starts when a large prize is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery). The special device 56 is also controlled to open under predetermined conditions in a small prize game state that starts when a small prize is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery).

[0032] The large prize opening 50 is provided with a specific area (not shown), a discharge area (not shown), and a distribution means (not shown) that distributes gaming balls that enter the large prize 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 a gaming ball passing through the specific area (passage of a gaming ball through the specific area). The distribution means can be switched between a specific area passing state in which gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area, and a non-specific area passing state in which gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the discharge area. In other words, when the distribution means is switched to the specific area passing state, gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 are distributed to the specific area. This prevents gaming balls that enter the large prize opening 50 from passing through the discharge area. On the other hand, when the distribution means is displaced to the non-specific area passing state, a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is distributed to the discharge area. This makes it impossible for a gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 to pass through the specific area. The distribution means is displaced by the specific area solenoid. A gaming ball that enters the large prize opening 50 is first detected by the count switch 104, and then distributed by the distribution means to either the specific area or the discharge area, and after passing through that area, is discharged to the discharge path. At this time, the gaming ball distributed to the specific area is detected by the specific area switch 107.

[0033] An outlet 62 is provided at the bottom of the game area 4 to collect game balls that fall through the game area 4 without entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 into the game machine. A discharge path (not shown) is provided inside the game machine through which game balls collected (discharged) from the game area 4 pass. This game machine is configured so that all game balls shot into the game area 4 (all game balls collected from the game area 4) pass through the discharge path. That is, game balls shot into the game area 4 are collected from the game area 4 and flow into the discharge path by entering any of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 or passing through the outlet 62. Specifically, game balls that enter each of the winning openings 46, 47, 49, and 50 are detected by switches 100, 101, 103, and 104 disposed in the winning openings, and then guided to the discharge path. Furthermore, the gaming balls collected from the outlet 62 are guided to the discharge path. An out switch 106 (see FIG. 5) is disposed in the discharge path. When the out switch 106 detects a gaming ball passing through the discharge path (discharge of a gaming ball from the gaming area 4), it outputs a detection signal to the main control board 200. Furthermore, the main control board 200 counts the number of gaming balls discharged from the gaming area 4 based on the input of the detection signal from the out switch 106.

[0034] The game ball launching device is configured so that the launch output of the game ball can be changed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 (handle) shown in Figure 1; when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is small, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4a (first game area 4a, left-hitting area) on the left side of the LCD display 32; when the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 is large, the game ball is launched so that it falls in the game area 4b (second game area 4b, right-hitting area) on the right side of the LCD display 32.

[0035] The player adjusts the amount of rotation of the grip unit 20 depending on the game situation, and launches the game ball so that it falls through the left-side game area 4a or passes through the opening 40, the passage 42, and the stage 44 to win in the first start opening 46 (left hit), or launches the game ball so that it falls through the right-side game area 4b and passes through the passage gate 48 or wins in the second start opening 49 or wins in the big prize opening 50 (right hit). In this embodiment, left hit may be called the first game method, and right hit may be called the second game method.

[0036] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a gaming ball falls through the left-side gaming area 4a, the gaming ball does not pass through the passing gate 48, and the gaming ball does not enter (win) the second start opening 49 or the large prize opening 50. In addition, when a gaming ball falls through the right-side gaming area 4b, the gaming ball does not enter the first start opening 46 or the general prize opening 47.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 1, a performance button 26 is provided on the front frame 10. The performance button 26 is formed to be operable by pressing, and when a player operates (presses) the performance button 26, the performance performed by the gaming machine can change. A lever 15 is also provided on the front frame 10. The lever 15 is configured so that it can be pulled toward the player, and when the player pulls the lever 15, the presentation performed by the gaming machine can change. The lever 15 is capable of moving (tilting) at least between an initial position (OFF position) and an ON position closer to the player than the initial position, and may also be configured so that it can be pushed inward (rearward).

[0038] The front frame 10 is also provided with a cross key 27. The cross key 27 has at least an up button, a down button, a left button, and a right button that can be pressed. The cross key 27 is operated, for example, to display a menu screen on the liquid crystal display 32 and select one of various options. In addition, a volume adjustment button 28 is provided on the front frame 10. The volume adjustment button 28 is formed so that it can be pressed, and when the back side in the front-to-back direction is pressed, the volume of the gaming machine increases, and when the front side in the front-to-back direction is pressed, the volume of the gaming machine decreases. In addition, a light intensity adjustment button 29 is provided on the front frame 10. The light intensity adjustment button 29 is formed so that it can be pressed, and when the back side in the front-to-back direction is pressed, the brightness of the gaming machine increases, and when the front side in the front-to-back direction is pressed, the brightness of the gaming machine decreases.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, a status display unit 70 is provided at the lower right of the gaming board 6, outside the gaming area 4, for indicating various states of the gaming machine by turning on and off lamps or the like.

[0040] 4 is a front view showing the external configuration of the status display unit 70. The status 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 status display unit 84.

[0041] The normal symbol display unit 72 is composed of two lamps, and when a normal symbol lottery is held, the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps, and the normal symbol is displayed in a static manner by turning on or off the two lamps, thereby displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery.

[0042] The normal hold display unit 74 is composed of two lamps, and displays the normal hold number corresponding to the number of the reserved random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery when the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery are reserved because the normal pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery are obtained, such as when the normal pattern is already being displayed in a changing or stopped state when the game ball passes through the passing gate 48, and displays the normal hold number from 0 to 4 by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0043] The first special pattern display unit 76 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a first special pattern lottery is held by a gaming ball entering the first starting hole 46, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display the first special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display the first special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the first special pattern lottery.

[0044] The first special reserve display unit 78 is composed of two lamps, and displays a first special reserve number corresponding to the number of reserved first special random number values ​​when the first special pattern or second special pattern is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the first starting hole 46, and the random number value for the special pattern lottery is reserved as the first special random number value because a special pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number value for the special pattern lottery (lottery information) is obtained, and displays 0 to 4 first special reserve numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0045] The second special pattern display unit 81 is composed of a 7-segment display, and when a second special pattern lottery is held by a gaming ball entering the second starting hole 49, the 7-segment display is made to flash to display the second special pattern in a variable manner, and the 7-segment display is made to light up in one of a plurality of modes to display the second special pattern in a static manner, thereby displaying the result of the second special pattern lottery.

[0046] The second special reserve display unit 82 is composed of two lamps, and displays a second special reserve number corresponding to the number of the reserved second special random number value when the first special pattern or the second special pattern is already being displayed in a variable or stopped state at the time the game ball enters the second starting hole 49, and the random number value for the special pattern lottery is reserved as the second special random number value because a special pattern lottery cannot be held even if the random number value for the special pattern lottery is obtained, and displays 0 to 4 second special reserve numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps.

[0047] The game status display unit 84 is composed of six lamps, and displays the type of game status currently set by combining the lighting, extinguishing, or flashing of the six lamps. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, multiple game statuses can be set, including a normal status, a slightly time-saving status, a time-saving status, and a special game status. In the time-saving status, the time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol to fluctuate is shortened compared to the normal status and the slightly time-saving status, and the opportunity to execute the special symbol lottery occurs more frequently.

[0048] 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 consisting of a given program pre-stored in ROM, etc.

[0049] 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 calculations to execute the game, and controls the operation of output means such as the normal device 54 and the special device 56 based on the calculation results.

[0050] The sub-control board 202 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the effect button switch 150 (lever switch), performs various calculations to execute effects that match the progress of the game, and based on the calculation results, controls the operation of effect devices such as the front frame lamp 12, speaker 14, LCD display 32, and lighting device 38.

[0051] The frame control board 201 receives signals sent from the main control board 200 and input signals from the counting button 212, controls the number of balls held (number of game balls), and controls the game value number display device 211, etc. The frame control board 201 is capable of bidirectional communication with the main control board 200.

[0052] The main control board 200 is configured to include a random number generating means 210, a normal symbol lottery means 220, a normal display control means 222, a normal device 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.

[0053] The random number generating means 210 is a means for generating random numbers for the lottery, and is realized by a random number generator that generates hardware random numbers, or a program that generates software random numbers. Software random numbers can be generated, for example, based on the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numbers so as to circulate within a predetermined count range). Note that in this embodiment, the term "random number value" includes not only values ​​that are generated randomly in the mathematical sense, but also values ​​that are generated regularly but can actually function as random numbers because the timing of their acquisition is irregular.

[0054] The normal symbol lottery means 220 acquires a random number value for the normal symbol lottery from the random number generating means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the gate switch 102 that detects each game ball passing through the passage gate 48, stores the random number value for the normal symbol lottery in the normal random number storage means 2912 of the main memory 290, and performs a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not a normal win has been won based on the random number value for the normal symbol lottery read from the normal random number storage means 2912.

[0055] In detail, the normal random number memory means 2912 has four normal reserve memory areas, normal reserve memory area 1 to normal reserve memory area 4, which are memory areas for storing the acquired random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery, and one normal reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery that are read from normal reserve memory area 1 and used to draw the normal pattern until the changing and stopping display of the normal pattern ends. Then, when normal pattern lottery means 220 acquires the random number value for normal pattern lottery from random number generating means 210, if the random number value for normal pattern lottery is not stored in any of normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4, it first stores the acquired random number value for normal pattern lottery in normal reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time the random number value for normal pattern lottery is stored in normal reserve memory area 1, if the normal pattern is not being displayed variably or stationarily, that is, if the random number value for normal pattern lottery is not stored in the normal reserve memory area and control to open normal role device 54 is not being executed, it immediately reads out the random number value for normal pattern lottery from normal reserve memory area 1 and performs a normal pattern lottery, and stores the random number value for normal pattern lottery used in the normal pattern lottery in the normal reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable or stationary manner, that is, when the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is stored in the normal reserve memory area or when control to open the normal device 54 is being executed, the random number value for the normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1.

[0056] Then, when a random number value for the normal pattern lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the gate switch 102 to obtain a random number value for the normal pattern lottery, the normal pattern lottery means 220 stores the random number value for the normal pattern lottery in the normal reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which a random number value for the normal pattern lottery is not reserved, on the condition that the number of random number values ​​for the normal pattern lottery reserved in the normal reserve memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., the normal reserve number is less than four.

[0057] Then, when the variable display and stationary display of the normal symbols are finished, the normal symbol lottery means 220 erases the random number values ​​for normal symbol lottery stored in the normal reserve memory area, and if a random number value for normal symbol lottery is reserved in the normal reserve memory area 1, it reads the random number value for normal symbol lottery from the normal reserve memory area 1, performs a normal symbol lottery, and stores the random number value for normal symbol lottery obtained by the normal symbol lottery in the normal reserve memory area, provided that control to open the normal accessory 54 is not being executed. Here, if a random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reserve memory area 2 or later, it moves the remaining random number value for normal symbol lottery from the original normal reserve memory area to the normal reserve memory area with the smaller ordinal number by one. For example, if a random number value for normal symbol lottery remains in the normal reserve memory area 2 to the normal reserve memory area 3, it moves it to the normal reserve memory area 1 to the normal reserve memory area 2.

[0058] In this way, in the normal random number memory means 2912, the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has been held is held in the normal hold memory area up to a maximum of one, and the random number value for the normal pattern lottery for which a normal pattern lottery has not been held is held in the normal hold memory area 1 to normal hold memory area 4 up to a maximum of four.

[0059] The normal symbol lottery means 220 performs normal winning determination processing as a normal symbol lottery.

[0060] The normal win determination process is a process for determining whether a "normal win" has been won. In the normal win determination process, the normal symbol lottery means 220 selects, according to the game state, which normal symbol lottery table to refer to for random number determination processing among a plurality of types of normal symbol lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290. Here, each normal symbol lottery table associates "normal win" or "lose" with each of 100 normal symbol lottery random number values ​​from 0 to 99. Then, the normal symbol lottery means 220 determines whether a "normal win" has been won by referring to the selected normal symbol lottery table and determining whether one normal symbol lottery random number value read from the normal random number storage means 2912 is associated with a normal win.

[0061] The normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is in the time-shortening state (excluding the slight time-shortening state, the same applies below) is set to have a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery table selected when the gaming state is not in the time-shortening state. In other words, the normal symbol lottery held when the gaming state is in the time-shortening state has a higher probability of winning a "normal win" compared to the normal symbol lottery held when the gaming state is not in the time-shortening state.

[0062] The normal display control means 222 is a means for controlling the display of the status display unit 70 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery, and performs normal symbol display control processing and normal hold display control processing.

[0063] In the normal symbol display control process, the normal symbol display control means 222 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner by flashing the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 until a predetermined variation time has elapsed, and displays the result of the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol display unit 72 by turning on or off the two lamps of the normal symbol display unit 72 to stop the normal symbol display depending on whether a "normal symbol win" has been won in the normal symbol win determination process.

[0064] In this embodiment, the normal pattern variation time is determined according to the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed. Specifically, when the game state is in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set shorter than when the game state is not in a time-saving state. For example, when the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is not in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set to a first time (e.g., 20 seconds), and when the game state at the time the normal pattern lottery is performed is in a time-saving state, the normal pattern variation time is set to a second time (e.g., 1 second) that is shorter than the first time. Therefore, when the game state is in a time-saving state, the opportunity to perform the normal pattern lottery occurs more frequently.

[0065] In the normal hold display control process, the normal display control means 222 displays 0 to 4 normal hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the normal hold display unit 74, depending on the number of random number values ​​for normal pattern lottery stored in the normal random number memory means 2912.

[0066] The normal device control means 224 is a means for controlling the normal device 54 based on the result of the normal symbol lottery. When the gaming state is not in the time-saving state, the normal device control means 224 controls the normal device 54 to operate so that the normal device 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time A (e.g., 0.1 seconds) has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a win of a "normal win." Also, when the gaming state is in the time-saving state, the normal device control means 224 controls the normal device 54 to operate so that the normal device 54 becomes enlarged and then returns to the reduced state until time B (e.g., 6 seconds) longer than time A has elapsed, triggered by the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a win of a "normal win."

[0067] Therefore, when a "normal win" is obtained in the normal symbol lottery, if the gaming state is not in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to hardly increase the ease with which the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49, but if the gaming state is in the time-saving state, the normal device 54 operates so as to increase the ease with which the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49. In this embodiment, in the time-saving state, the operation of the normal device 54 is controlled so that the gaming ball enters the second starting hole 49 more easily than in the normal state and the slight time-saving state. Therefore, the time-saving state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state and the slight time-saving state.

[0068] In this embodiment, the control of the operation of the normal role device 54 differs between the normal state and the short-time-saving state. In the short-time-saving state, the opening time of the normal role device 54 (the time in the expanded state) is set slightly longer than in the normal state. In the short-time-saving state, it is sufficient that one or more of the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, or the opening time of the normal role device 54 is different from that in the normal state. For example, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery and the opening time of the normal role device 54 may be the same in the short-time-saving state and the normal state, but the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be different. In this case, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol may be slightly shorter in the short-time-saving state than in the normal state.

[0069] The special symbol lottery means 230 (lottery means) acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 that detects each gaming ball entering the first start port 46, and stores the value as a first special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914 of the main memory 290. Also, the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires a random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103 that detects each gaming ball entering the second start port 49, and stores the value as a second special random number value in the special random number storage means 2914. The special symbol lottery means 230 uses the first special random number value or the second special random number value read from the special random number storage means 2914 to perform a special symbol lottery that determines whether or not a jackpot will be won.

[0070] The special random number memory means 2914 has four first special reserve memory areas, first special reserve memory area 1 to first special reserve memory area 4, which are memory areas for storing the acquired first special random number values, and one first special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the first special random number value read from first special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the varying and stopping display of the first special pattern ends.

[0071] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires the random number value for the special symbol lottery based on the detection signal being input from the first start port switch 100, in a state where the first special random number value is not stored in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol lottery means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol lottery as the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the first special random number value is not stored in the first special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the special symbol lottery means 230 immediately reads out the first special random number value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable or stopped state, i.e., when the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, or when a small win game is being played, the first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1.

[0072] Then, when a first special random number value is reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the first start port switch 100 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the first special random number value in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 that has the smallest ordinal number and in which the first special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of first special random number values ​​reserved in the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is less than four, i.e., the first special reserve number is less than four.

[0073] The special random number memory means 2914 is provided with four second special reserve memory areas, second special reserve memory area 1 to second special reserve memory area 4, as memory areas for storing the acquired second special random number values, and one second special reserve memory area is provided as a memory area for storing the second special random number value read from second special reserve memory area 1 and used in the special pattern lottery until the changing and stopping display of the second special pattern ends.

[0074] When the special symbol lottery means 230 acquires the random number value for the special symbol lottery based on the input of a detection signal from the second start port switch 103, in a state where the second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, the special symbol lottery means 230 first stores the acquired random number value for the special symbol lottery as a second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area 1. Then, at the time when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special symbol is not being displayed variably or stopped, that is, if the second special random number value is not stored in the second special reserve memory area, the game state is not a special game state, and a small win game is not being executed, the special symbol lottery means 230 immediately reads out the second special random number value from the second special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the second special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the second special reserve memory area. On the other hand, when the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable or stopped state, that is, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve memory area, or when the game state is a special game state, or when a small win game is being executed, the second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1.

[0075] Then, when a second special random number value is reserved in the second special reserve memory area 1 and a detection signal is input from the second start port switch 103 to obtain a random number value for the special pattern lottery, the special pattern lottery means 230 stores the second special random number value in the second special reserve memory area with the smallest ordinal number among the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in which the second special random number value is not reserved, on the condition that the number of second special random number values ​​reserved in the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 is less than four, i.e., the second special reserve number is less than four.

[0076] When the variable display and stationary display of the first special symbol have ended, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the first special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area. Then, if the first special random number value is stored in the first special reserve memory area 1, the special symbol lottery means 230 reads the first special random number value from the first special reserve memory area 1, performs a special symbol lottery, and stores the first special random number value used in the special symbol lottery in the first special reserve memory area, provided that the game state is not a special game state and a small win game is not being executed. Furthermore, when the variable display and stationary display of the second special symbol have ended, the special symbol lottery means 230 erases the second special random number value stored in the second special reserve memory area. Then, when the second special random number value is stored in the second special reserve 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 number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, a special symbol lottery is performed, and the second special random number value used in the special symbol lottery is stored in the second special reserve memory area. In this embodiment, since the first special random number value and the second special random number value are consumed in parallel, the variable display of the second special symbol may start during the variable display of the first special symbol, or the variable display of the first special symbol may start during the variable display of the second special symbol.

[0077] In addition, when a first special random number value is stored in the first special reservation memory area 1, the first special random number value is read from the first special reservation memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, provided that a second special random number value is not stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. When a second special random number value is stored in any of the second special reservation memory areas 1 to 4, the second special random number value may be read from the second special reservation memory area 1 and a special symbol lottery is performed, even if the first special random number value is stored in any of the first special reservation memory areas 1 to 4. In other words, the second special random number value may be consumed with priority over the first special random number value. Furthermore, regardless of whether it is the first special random number value or the second special random number value, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be read in the order stored in the special random number storage means 2914 and a special symbol lottery may be performed. In other words, the first special random number value or the second special random number value may be consumed in the order in which the gaming ball enters the first start hole 46 or the second start hole 49.

[0078] When the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, if the first special random number value remains in the first special reserve memory area 2 or later, or when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, if the second special random number value remains in the second special reserve memory area 2 or later, the remaining first special random number value or second special random number value is moved from the original special reserve memory area to a special reserve memory area with an ordinal number one smaller. For example, if a first special random number value remains in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1, the first special random number value stored in each of the first special reserve memory area 2 to the first special reserve memory area 4 is moved to each of the first special reserve memory area 1 to the first special reserve memory area 3, and if a second special random number value remains in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 when the second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1, the second special random number value stored in each of the second special reserve memory area 2 to the second special reserve memory area 3 is moved to each of the second special reserve memory area 1 to the second special reserve memory area 2.

[0079] In the special random number storage means 2914, first special random number values ​​for which a special symbol lottery has not been conducted are reserved up to an upper limit of four in the first special reservation storage area 1 to the first special reservation storage area 4. Also, second special random number values ​​for which a special symbol lottery has not been conducted are reserved up to an upper limit of four in the second special reservation storage area 1 to the second special reservation storage area 4.

[0080] Next, the details of the special symbol lottery will be explained. The special symbol lottery means 230 acquires multiple types of random number values, such as a jackpot determination random number value and a pattern determination random number value, as random number values ​​for special symbol lottery based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and stores these multiple types of random number values ​​as first special random number values ​​or second special random number values ​​in the special random number storage means 2914. Then, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a pattern determination process, etc. as a special symbol lottery.

[0081] The jackpot determination process is a process for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred by reading out one jackpot determination random number value included in the first special random number value or the second special random number value stored in the first special reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 of the special random number memory means 2914. 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 memory means 2914 as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0082] In the jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of jackpot lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 of the main memory 290 to refer to in performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one jackpot determination random number value read out was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0083] In this 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, jackpots and the like are associated with each of 65,536 jackpot determination random number values ​​from 0 to 65,535.

[0084] The jackpot lottery table A is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the first special random number value. The correspondence between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that the probability of winning a "jackpot" is 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and the probability of winning a "C time reduction" is 349 / 350 (65349 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table A and determining whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the first special reserve memory area 1 corresponds to a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction." In this embodiment, the first special symbol lottery always results in a win for either a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction." Note that, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction" in the first special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the first special symbol lottery, there are cases where a winner (jackpot) is won or where a winner is not won, and the latter case (miss) includes cases where a winner is won in the C time reduction (C time reduction 1 or C time reduction 2 described later). Note that "not winning" may also include cases where a winner is not won in the time reduction (in other words, a complete miss).

[0085] The jackpot lottery table B is selected when performing the jackpot determination process for the second special random number value. The correspondence between each determination result and the jackpot determination random number value is set so that a "jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 350 (187 / 65536) and a "minor jackpot" is won with a probability of 1 / 139.8 (469 / 65536). The special symbol lottery means 230 determines whether a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot" has been won by referring to the jackpot lottery table B and determining whether the jackpot determination random number value read from the second special reserve memory area 1 corresponds to a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot." In this embodiment, the probability of winning a "jackpot" or a "minor jackpot" in the second special symbol lottery does not change depending on the game state. In the second special symbol lottery, there are cases where a win (jackpot or minor jackpot) is won or where a win is not won (miss). In addition, the latter "if you do not win the prize" does not include the case where you win the C time reduction without winning the prize.

[0086] The symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a "big hit," "C time reduction," or "small hit" is won in the big hit 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 reserve memory area 1 or the second special reserve memory area 1 of the special random number memory means 2914, and when a "big hit" is won, it determines which of multiple big hit symbols the big hit symbol (type of big hit) will be, when a "C time reduction" is won, it determines which of multiple time reduction symbols the time reduction symbol (type of C time reduction) will be, and when a "small hit" is won, it determines which of multiple small hit symbols the small hit symbol (type of small hit) will be. Here, one pattern determination random number value is obtained from 200 pattern determination random number values ​​from 0 to 199 based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100 and the second start port switch 103, and is stored in the special random number memory means 2914 as a first special random number value or a second special random number value.

[0087] In the pattern determination process, the special pattern lottery means 230 selects which of the multiple types of pattern lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage means 2910 to refer to when performing the random number determination process, depending on whether the one read-out pattern determination random number value was stored as the first special random number value or the second special random number value.

[0088] 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), a symbol lottery table C shown in Fig. 7(c), and a symbol lottery table D shown in Fig. 7(d). In each symbol lottery table, a predetermined symbol is associated with each symbol determination random number value.

[0089] 7(a) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "jackpot 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 0.005 / 100, "jackpot 2" (7R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 59.997 / 100, and "jackpot 3" (7R time reduction 0) is won with a probability of 39.998 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table A and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0090] 7(b) is selected when "C time reduction" is won and one read-out pattern determination random number value is stored as the first special random number value, and the correspondence between each pattern and the pattern determination random number value is set so that "C time reduction 1" (slight time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 80.5 / 100 (approximately 80%) and "C time reduction 2" (time reduction 1329) is won with a probability of 19.5 / 100 (approximately 20%). The special pattern lottery means 230 refers to the pattern lottery table B and determines which of the multiple types of time reduction patterns the read-out pattern determination random number value is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of time reduction patterns has been won.

[0091] 7(c) is selected when a "jackpot" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "jackpot 4" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 12.8 / 100, and "jackpot 5" (10R time reduction 110) is won with a probability of 87.2 / 100. The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table C and determines which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value corresponds to, thereby determining which of the multiple types of jackpot symbols has been won.

[0092] The symbol lottery table D shown in Fig. 7(d) is selected when a "small win" is won and one read-out symbol determination random number value is stored as the second special random number value, and the correspondence between each symbol and the symbol determination random number value is set so that "small win 1" (10R time reduction 10000) is won with a probability of 50 / 100, and "small win 2" is won with a probability of 50 / 100 (10R time reduction 110). The special symbol lottery means 230 refers to the symbol lottery table D and determines which of the multiple types of small win symbols the read-out symbol determination random number value is associated with, thereby determining which of the multiple types of small win symbols has been won.

[0093] The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a special game based on the result of the special symbol lottery, and performs processing for executing the special game. The special game execution means 260 is a means for executing a small win game based on the winning of a "small win" in the special symbol lottery, and performs processing for executing the small win game. Note that the term "special game" may include a small win game.

[0094] The special game state begins when a "jackpot" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery or second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of rounds (number of executions) of special games (jackpot games) are played according to the type (category) of the jackpot symbol. When the special game state begins when "jackpot 1," "jackpot 4," or "jackpot 5" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 10 rounds of special games (rounds 1 to 10) have been played. When the special game state begins when "jackpot 2" or "jackpot 3" is won in the special symbol lottery, the special game state ends when 7 rounds of special games (rounds 1 to 7) have been played. Details will be given later, but if a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery, at the end of the special game state, a predetermined number of time-saving periods corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and the time-saving state begins, or a predetermined number of small time-saving periods corresponding to the jackpot pattern is set and the small time-saving state begins.

[0095] The small win gaming state is initiated when a "small win" is won in the special symbol lottery (second special symbol lottery), and ends when a predetermined number of small win games have been played (one in this embodiment). In the small win game, the special device 56 is set to an open state that allows the game ball to enter the large prize opening 50, and the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state. Specifically, in the small win game, the distribution means is shifted from a non-specific area passing state to a specific area passing state so that the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 during the execution of the small win game can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area. As a result, if either "small win 1" or "small win 2" is won in the second special symbol lottery, the game ball can easily (possibly) pass through the specific area in the small win gaming state. Then, when the passage of a game ball through a specific area is detected during the small win game state (when the passage of a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is detected during the execution of the small win game), a special game state is initiated based on the end of the small win game state.

[0096] If "small win 1" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area is detected during the small win gaming state, the number of special games (round games) is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be played, with the small win game being the first round game. The special gaming state ends once 10 rounds of special games have been played. Also, if "small win 2" is won in the second special pattern lottery and the passage of the gaming ball through a specific area is detected during the small win gaming state, the number of special games (round games) is set to 9. As a result, 10 rounds will be played, with the small win game being the first round game. The special gaming state ends once 10 rounds of special games have been played. As will be described in detail later, at the end of the special gaming state, a predetermined number of time-saving games corresponding to the small win pattern is set, and the time-saving state begins. In addition, if the passage of the game ball through a specific area is not detected during the small win game state (if the passage of the game ball that entered the large prize opening 50 through a specific area is not detected during the execution of the small win game), the special game state is not initiated and the normal state is initiated.

[0097] In this embodiment, in each round of special play (including small win play), when the opening timer in the main memory 290 counts a predetermined time (29 seconds) after the special feature 56 is opened, or when the value of the large prize counter (not shown) in the main memory 290, which adds a value (e.g., 1) equivalent to one game ball when the count switch 104 detects the entry of one game ball, reaches an upper limit (e.g., 10), the end condition for the special play is met, and the drive control of the special feature drive device is performed so that the special feature 56 is closed. In this embodiment, the term "special play" may also include small win play. Furthermore, the term "special play" is not limited to referring to a single round of play, but may also refer to the entire round of play consisting of multiple rounds (e.g., a 10-round special play).

[0098] The special display control means 240 performs a first special pattern display control process, a second special pattern display control process, a first special hold display control process, and a second special hold display control process based on the results of the special pattern lottery.

[0099] The first special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when the first special random number value is read from the first special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is conducted, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until the variable time has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner. The special pattern lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special pattern lottery, and the special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 until the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a static manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a predetermined manner.

[0100] In this embodiment, the display mode of the 7-segment display is predetermined in correspondence with each of the big win symbols, the time-saving symbols, and the small win symbols. The special display control means 240 causes the first special pattern to be displayed in a stopped state by lighting up the 7-segment display of the first special pattern display unit 76 in a manner corresponding to whether or not a "jackpot" or "C time reduction" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a "jackpot" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the time reduction pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a "C time reduction" has been won in the jackpot determination process, and causes the first special pattern display unit 76 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0101] The second special pattern display control process is a process that is performed when a second special random number value is read from the second special reserve memory area 1 and a special pattern lottery is conducted, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 until the variable time has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stationary manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a predetermined manner. The special pattern lottery means 230 performs a variation pattern determination process for the special pattern lottery, and the special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a variable manner by flashing the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 until the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the variation pattern determination process has elapsed, and then causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a static manner by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a predetermined manner.

[0102] The special display control means 240 causes the second special pattern to be displayed in a stopped state by lighting up the 7-segment display of the second special pattern display unit 81 in a manner corresponding to whether a ``big hit'' or a ``small hit'' has been won in the big hit determination process, and in a manner corresponding to the big hit pattern determined in the pattern determination process if a ``big hit'' has been won in the big hit determination process, and causes the second special pattern display unit 81 to display the result of the special pattern lottery.

[0103] In the first special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 first special hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the first special hold display unit 78 depending on the number of first special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0104] In the second special hold display control process, the special display control means 240 displays 0 to 4 second special hold numbers by combining turning on, turning off, or flashing the two lamps of the second special hold display unit 82, depending on the number of second special random number values ​​stored in the special random number memory means 2914.

[0105] In this embodiment, a relatively short variable time is set when a winning prize is not awarded, and a relatively long variable time can be set when a winning prize is awarded and when a winning prize is awarded. Also, in the time-saving state, a short variable time is set relatively often as the variable time for the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the frequency with which the special symbol lottery is triggered arrives more frequently. The special symbol lottery means 230 (pre-determination means) also performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process, etc. as a pre-determination process 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 random number value for special symbol lottery from the random number generation means 210 based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, the special symbol lottery means 230 performs a jackpot determination process, a symbol determination process, a variation pattern determination process, etc. as a pre-determination process for the first special random number value or the second special random number value according to the game state and the number of reserved values ​​at that time before storing the first special random number value as the first special random number value in any of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4, or before storing the second special random number value in any of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4. In addition, the pre-determination process may be configured to have dedicated processes for pre-determination (pre-jackpot determination process, pre-pattern determination process) rather than the same processes as the jackpot determination process and pattern determination process that are executed when a variation based on the random number value for special pattern lottery that is actually stored as pending (for example, a lottery process based on the same table). The special pattern lottery means 230 transmits the pre-determination result, which includes the results of each of the pre-determination processes such as the jackpot determination process and the pattern determination process, to the sub-control board 202 (performance control means 300) as pre-determination result information, and stores it in one of the first special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in association with the first special random number value that was the subject of the pre-determination process, or stores it in one of the second special reserve memory areas 1 to 4 in association with the second special random number value that was the subject of the pre-determination process.

[0106] In this embodiment, if a "big win" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery or second special pattern lottery), a special game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. Also, if a "small win" is won in the second special pattern lottery, a small win game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. When a game ball that has entered the large prize opening 50 is detected passing through a specific area in the small win game state, a special game state is initiated in which a game ball can (easily) enter the large prize opening 50. By entering the game ball into the large prize opening 50, the player can win many prize balls. In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the second special pattern lottery is higher than the probability of transitioning to the special game state based on the first special pattern lottery. Specifically, in the first special symbol lottery, a "small win" is not set as a lottery result, and the game transitions to the special game state only if a "big win" is won. On the other hand, in the second special symbol lottery, a "big win" and a "small win" are set as lottery results, and the game transitions to the special game state if a "big win" is won, and if a "small win" is won and the passage of the game ball through a specific area is detected in the small win game state, the game transitions to the special game state.

[0107] In this embodiment, the probability of transitioning to the special game state is higher when an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery is acquired than when an opportunity for the first special symbol lottery is acquired. As described above, in order to acquire an opportunity for the second special symbol lottery, it is necessary to win a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery and to cause a game ball to enter (enter) the second start opening 49 when the normal role device 54 (normal electric role device) is in the open state (open state). In addition, the ease of entry of a game ball into the second start opening 49 (ease of making a ball enter) varies depending on the game state.

[0108] 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).

[0109] (Normal state) The normal state (normal game state) is a game state that corresponds to the initial state among multiple game states. As described above, in the normal state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state. Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates so that the likelihood of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is hardly increased. Therefore, in the normal state, it is difficult (impossible) to get the game ball into the second starting hole 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) to get an opportunity to draw the second special symbol. In the normal state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball left-handed to get the game ball into the first starting hole 46 in order to get an opportunity to draw the first special symbol than to hit the ball right-handed. In other words, the normal state is a game state in which left-handed hitting is recommended.

[0110] As shown in Figure 8, a transition to the special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) in the normal game state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times (micro-time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the micro-time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state.

[0111] 7(b), in the normal state, if "C time-saving 1" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the stopped display (confirmation) triggers the setting of the number of time-saving times corresponding to the time-saving pattern (1329 times of slight time-saving), and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs. In addition, in the normal state, if "C time-saving 2" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 2" (when the first special pattern is confirmed), the stopping display (confirmation) triggers the setting of the number of time-saving times corresponding to the time-saving pattern (1329 times of time-saving), and a transition to the time-saving state occurs.

[0112] In this embodiment, the first special pattern lottery in the normal state always results in either a "jackpot" or a "C time reduction," and based on the execution of the first special pattern lottery in the normal state, the game will transition to either a slight time reduction state, a time reduction state, or a special game state.

[0113] The time-saving symbol "C Time-saving 2" does not trigger a transition to a game state (special game state or small win game state) that makes it easier for the game ball to enter the large prize slot 50, and is a time-saving symbol that allows a transition to the time-saving state without passing through the special game state or small win game state. Note that in a game state other than the normal state, if "C Time-saving 1" or "C Time-saving 2" is won in the first special symbol lottery and the first special symbol is displayed in a stopped state, the display will not trigger a transition to the time-saving state or the minute time-saving state. This "not transitioning" includes the fact that the specified number of time-saving times (minute time-saving number of times) will not be reset if the player is already in that game state.

[0114] (Slight time saving state) As described above, in the micro-time-saving state, the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is lower than in the time-saving state (although it may be the same as in the time-saving state). Furthermore, even if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates so as to substantially prevent the ball from entering the second starting hole 49. Therefore, in the micro-time-saving state, at least some of the functions constituting the time-saving state are activated, making it slightly easier for the ball to enter the second starting hole 49 compared to the normal state. However, even if the player hits the ball right, it is difficult (impossible) for the ball to enter the second starting hole 49. In other words, it is difficult (impossible) for the player to win the second special symbol lottery. In the micro-time-saving state, hitting the ball leftward to get the ball into the first starting hole 46 in order to gain a chance to win the first special symbol lottery is more advantageous for the player than hitting the ball rightward. In other words, the slight time-saving state is a gaming state in which left-handed shots should be made.

[0115] As shown in Figure 8, a transition to the special game state occurs when a "jackpot" is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) during the slight time-saving state. As shown in Figure 7(a), if "jackpot 1" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 2" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state. Also, if "jackpot 3" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times (slight time-saving times) is set to 1,329 at the end of the special game state, and a transition to the slight time-saving state occurs upon the end of the special game state.

[0116] The gaming state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition for the micro-time-saving state is met based on the fact that the number of times the first special symbol has been displayed in a variable manner in the micro-time-saving state has reached 1,329, and terminates the micro-time-saving state and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special gaming state is terminated based on winning "Jackpot 3" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the number of micro-time-saving times is set to the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 in the main memory 290. Also, when "C time-saving 1" is won in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery) in the normal state and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1," the stopped display triggers the number of micro-time-saving times to be set to the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916. In the micro-time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the stored value of the micro-time-saving counter 2916 each time the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner. Then, when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 reaches "0", the minute time saving end condition is established, the minute time saving state ends, and the normal state starts. Note that in this embodiment, the minute time saving end condition is established when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but this is not limiting, and the minute time saving end condition may be established when the stored value of the minute time saving counter 2916 is added and reaches a predetermined value (for example, "1329").

[0117] In the slight time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", the slight time-saving state or the time-saving state will not be started (set) as a result of the stopped display. In other words, the game state at the time of the winning will continue.

[0118] (Time-saving mode) As described above, in the time-saving state (specific game state), the probability of winning a "normal win" in the normal symbol lottery is higher than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. Furthermore, if a "normal win" is won in the normal symbol lottery, the normal device 54 operates to increase the likelihood of the game ball entering the second starting hole 49. Therefore, in the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball into the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state or the slight time-saving state. In other words, it is easier to get an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery. In the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to hit the ball to the right so that the game ball passes through the passing gate 48 in order to get an opportunity to win the second special symbol lottery than to hit the ball to the left. In other words, the time-saving state is a game state in which right-handed shots are recommended.

[0119] As shown in Figure 8, if a "big win" or "small win" is won in the special pattern lottery (second special pattern lottery) during the time-saving state, the game transitions to the special game state (including via the small win game state). As shown in Figure 7(c), if "big win 4" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if "big win 5" is won in the special pattern lottery, the number of time-saving times is set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. Furthermore, if "small win 1" is won in the special pattern lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the small win game state, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 at the end of the special game state, and the game transitions to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state. In addition, if the "Small Win 2" is won in the special pattern lottery and the game ball is detected passing through a specific area during the small win game state, the number of time-saving times will be set to 110 at the end of the special game state, and the game will transition to the time-saving state upon the end of the special game state.

[0120] When the number of times the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state reaches 110 times (or 10,000 times), the game state transition control means 250 determines that the termination condition (predetermined condition) of the time-saving state is met, terminates the time-saving state, and transitions to the normal state. In this embodiment, when the special game state ends, the number of time-saving times corresponding to the type of winning symbol is set in the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915 of the main memory 290, and each time the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state, "1" is subtracted from the value stored in the time-saving counter 2915. Then, when the value of the time-saving counter 2915 reaches "0," the time-saving termination condition is met, the time-saving state ends, and the normal state begins. In this embodiment, the time-saving end condition is established when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is subtracted and reaches a predetermined value "0", but this is not limiting, and the time-saving end condition may be established when the stored value of the time-saving counter 2915 is added and reaches a predetermined value "110" (or "10000"). Also, in this embodiment, the time-saving counter 2915 and the minute time-saving counter 2916 are provided, ... managed (controlled) by one of the counters.

[0121] In the time-saving state, if "C time-saving" ("C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2") is won in the special pattern lottery (first special pattern lottery) and the first special pattern is stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to "C time-saving 1" or "C time-saving 2", the stop display will not trigger the start (setting) of the slight time-saving state or the time-saving state. In other words, the game state at the time of the winning will continue.

[0122] In this embodiment, in the normal state, if a player wins "Jackpot 1" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), if a player wins "Jackpot 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), or if a player wins "C Time Reduction 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the game transitions to the time-shortened state. In contrast, in the slight time-shortened state, if a player wins "Jackpot 1" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), or if a player wins "Jackpot 2" in the special symbol lottery (first special symbol lottery), the game transitions to the time-shortened state. Therefore, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-shortened state (a game state advantageous to the player) than the slight time-shortened state, which is advantageous to the player. In other words, the normal state has a higher probability of transitioning to the time-shortened state than the slight time-shortened state because a player can transition to the time-shortened state if a player wins "C Time Reduction 2." This is advantageous to the player. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when RAM clear (a process of initializing at least a part of the RAM area of ​​the main memory 290) is executed, the gaming state is set to the normal state. The normal state is the so-called "morning state."

[0123] Furthermore, as described above, the normal state and the slight time-saving state (left-hit time-saving state) are game states in which left-handed hits are more advantageous than right-handed hits, and the time-saving state (right-hit time-saving state) is a game state in which right-handed hits are more advantageous than left-handed hits. In the time-saving state, it is easier to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 49 than in the normal state and the slight time-saving state, and the second special symbol lottery based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 49 is more likely to determine a transition to the special game state than the first special symbol lottery. In other words, the time-saving state has a higher probability of determining a transition to the special game state than the normal state and the slight time-saving state.

[0124] Returning to Figure 5, the payout control means 270 performs control to (electronically) pay out a number of game balls equivalent to a predetermined number of prize balls for each detection signal based on the detection signal input from the first start port switch 100, the detection signal from the second start port switch 103, the detection signal from the general winning port switch 101, and the detection signal from the count switch 104.

[0125] The communication control means 280 controls the transmission of various commands generated in response 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, the main control board 200 and the sub-control board 202 are connected in a communication manner such that only one-way communication from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 202 is possible, and information cannot be transmitted from the sub-control board 202 to the main control board 200.

[0126] Next, we will explain the sub-control board 202. The sub-control board 202 is configured to include a performance control means 300 and a sub-memory 302.

[0127] The performance control means 300 controls the performance devices based on various commands sent from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150 (lever switch), and performance data stored in the performance data storage means 303 (ROM) of the sub-memory 302, and controls the performance devices to perform effects to liven up or assist the game (controls various performance devices), such as turning on or blinking the front frame lamp 12 and the lighting device 38, displaying performance images on the LCD display 32, controlling the sound device to output performance sounds from the speaker 14, and driving the performance object drive device to operate the performance objects (gimmick objects).

[0128] The performance data storage means 303 stores a large number of performance image data for displaying images on the liquid crystal display 32, and the performance control means 300 draws an image in the frame buffer of the sub-memory 302 for each frame based on this performance image data, and displays the drawn image on the liquid crystal display 32, thereby playing and displaying a moving image on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0129] The performance control means 300 determines the performance content to be executed based on various commands sent from the main control board 200, input signals from the performance button switch 150 (lever switch), etc. Furthermore, the performance control means 300 controls, for example, the display on the liquid crystal display 32 based on the determined performance content.

[0130] The effect control means 300 is capable of executing an effect in which effect symbols (demo symbols, decorative symbols) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in the very-short-time state and the time-saving state. Specifically, the effect control means 300 executes an effect (first symbol effect) in which effect symbols (main effect symbols) are displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the first special symbol in the first special symbol display section 76, or in accordance with (corresponding to) the varying and stationary display of the second special symbol in the second special symbol display section 81, and is capable of announcing the results of the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery. In the very-short-time state, the effect control means 300 displays effect symbols corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the first special symbol on the liquid crystal display 32, and in the time-saving state, the effect control means 300 displays effect symbols corresponding to the varying and stationary display of the second special symbol on the liquid crystal display 32.

[0131] Here, we will explain the display of the performance symbols in the short time saving state. FIG. 9(a) shows the state before the first special symbol begins to change during the micro-time-saving mode. The left symbol 350, the center symbol 352, and the right symbol 354 are displayed in the display area 32a of the LCD display 32. The left symbol 350 is displayed on the left side of the display area 32a of the LCD display 32, the center symbol 352 is displayed in the center of the display area 32a of the LCD display 32, and the right symbol 354 is displayed on the right side of the display area 32a of the LCD display 32. The left symbol 350, the center symbol 352, and the right symbol 354 each form a sequence of nine different symbols representing the numbers "1" through "9." Each symbol representing the numbers "1" through "9" may include decorative elements such as characters in addition to the numbers.

[0132] As shown in Figure 9(b), the display of the first special symbol begins, and the display of the effect symbol (the effect of the effect symbol) begins. The downward arrow in the figure indicates that the effect symbol is being displayed vertically at high speed (scrolling).

[0133] As shown in Figure 9(c), the effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state based on the stopped display of the first special pattern. The effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state according to the result of the first special pattern lottery. For example, if a "jackpot" is won in the first special pattern lottery, the effect pattern is displayed in a stopped state according to the jackpot pattern determined in the pattern determination process. Although not shown, even in the time-saving state, the effect pattern is displayed in a changing or stopped state according to the changing and stopped display of the second special pattern, just as in the slight time-saving state (as shown in Figures 9(a), 9(b), and 9(c)).

[0134] The performance control means 300 executes a performance (hold performance) in which an image showing the first special hold number or the second special hold number is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 based on the first special hold number (the first special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) or the second special hold number (the second special random number value stored (held) in the special random number storage means 2914) in the main control board 200. As shown in FIG. 9(a), etc., four hold display areas (display areas) of the first hold display area 411 to the fourth hold display area 414 are provided below the display area of ​​the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 4 or the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 4 of the special random number storage means 2914.

[0135] Figure 9(a) shows a hold effect executed in a slight time-saving state, in which a first special random number value is stored in the first special hold memory area 1 to the first special hold memory area 3, and a first hold image 420 (first hold ball display) (three first hold images 420) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the third hold display area 413. Figure 9(d) shows a hold effect executed in a time-saving state, in which a second special random number value is stored in the second special hold memory area 1 to the second special hold memory area 2, and a second hold image 422 (second hold ball display) (two second hold images 422) is displayed in the first hold display area 411 to the second hold display area 412.

[0136] In addition, in the hold effect, one hold display area 430 is displayed in the area to the left of the first hold display area 411 at the bottom of the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display 32, corresponding to the special hold memory area of ​​the special random number memory means 2914. In the hold display area 430, when a first special random number value is read out from the first special hold memory area 1 and stored in the special hold memory area, a first hold image 420 is displayed (FIG. 9(b)). In addition, when a second special random number value is read out from the second special hold memory area 1 and stored in the special hold memory area, a second hold image 422 is displayed.

[0137] (Button effect) The effect control means 300 is capable of validating the operation of the effect button 26 at a predetermined opportunity during the variable display of the special symbol, and executing a button effect (operation instruction effect) that prompts the player to operate the effect button 26 (see FIG. 10(a)). As the button effect, for example, an image (operation instruction display) that resembles the effect button 26 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32, and the effect button 26 lights up (lights up), thereby notifying that operation of the effect button 26 is valid. Note that the effect control means 300 may also display a meter image that can notify the remaining time for valid operation together with the operation instruction display. Furthermore, the effect control means 300 may further output a sound (for example, "Press it!") that prompts the player to operate the effect button 26. The effect control means 300 can end the button effect and display a display relating to the game result (a display suggesting the result of the special symbol lottery) based on the effect button 26 being operated (pressed) or a predetermined time (i.e., valid operation time) having elapsed since the operation instruction display was displayed. Examples of displays relating to the game result include a display that notifies that a win (a specific result) has been obtained, a display that suggests the degree of expectation for a win, and a display that notifies that a result has been obtained in which the effect symbol fluctuations continue.

[0138] (Lever effect) The presentation control means 300 is capable of validating the operation of the lever 15 at a predetermined opportunity while the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, and of executing a lever presentation (operation instruction presentation) that prompts the player to operate the lever 15 (pull the lever 15) (see FIG. 10(b)). As the lever presentation, for example, an image (operation instruction display) that resembles the lever 15 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. The presentation control means 300 may also display, together with the operation instruction display, a meter image that can notify the player of the remaining valid operation time. The presentation control means 300 may also output a sound (for example, "Pull!") that prompts the player to operate the lever 15. The presentation control means 300 can terminate the lever presentation and display a display regarding the result of the game based on the fact that the operation of pulling the lever 15 has been performed or that a predetermined time (i.e., the valid operation time) has elapsed since the operation instruction display was displayed.

[0139] (Fluctuation pattern) As described above, the special symbol lottery means 230 of the main control board 200 executes a variation pattern determination process (main variation pattern determination process) based on the input of a detection signal from the first start port switch 100 or the second start port switch 103, and determines the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Specifically, one of the multiple main variation pattern lottery tables provided is selected, a lottery is executed, and the main variation pattern is determined. The main control board 200 transmits main variation pattern information indicating the determined main variation pattern to the sub-control board 202. There are two main variation patterns: one related to a win (winning a win) in the special symbol lottery, and one related to a lose (winning a lose) in the special symbol lottery (losing variation).

[0140] (Specific performance) The effect control means 300 can execute specific effects (hidden command effects, hidden button effects) at a predetermined opportunity during the variable display of special symbols. The specific effects can be executed when a specific operation (hidden command operation) is executed, but no notification is executed to prompt the player to operate the operation means for that specific operation, as with the button effects and lever effects described above.

[0141] The specific effects are effects that can be executed when the operation means is operated (when a specific operation is input) in a situation where a notification urging the player to operate the operation means is not being executed, and the specific effects are effects that suggest the results of a special symbol lottery. The operation means related to the generation of the specific effects include, for example, the effect button 26 and the lever 15, but are not limited to these, and may also be a cross key 27 (cross button). In the following, in this embodiment, a case where the operation means is the lever 15 will be described.

[0142] The performance control means 300 enables the operation of the operating means (lever 15) at a predetermined trigger while the special pattern is being displayed in a variable manner, and does not notify the user through the performance device (liquid crystal display, lamp or speaker) that the operating means is enabled, and when the operating means is operated in this state, a specific performance can be executed.

[0143] Here, the control (processing) in the case where the variation of the special symbol related to the special symbol lottery is a winning variation, and the operating means (lever 15) is operated (a hidden command is input) during the winning variation, and a specific effect that notifies that a win has been obtained (a win is confirmed) can be executed will be explained using the flowchart shown in Fig. 11. At the start of the flowchart shown in Fig. 11, it is assumed that the effect control means 300 has received information indicating that the variation of the special symbol is a winning variation from the main control board 200.

[0144] (Step S1) The effect control means 300 activates (enables) the operating means (lever 15) based on the start of the special symbol variation (winning variation). In other words, the effect control means 300 sets the effective operation time of the operating means. In this embodiment, the effective operation time is, in principle, the time (period) from the start of the special symbol variation to the end of the special symbol variation (stop of variation, confirmation of variation). The effective operation time ends based on the stop of the special symbol variation, but may end earlier (as will be described later). In this example, the effect (Fig. 10(b)) that prompts the player to operate the operating means is not executed during the effective operation time.

[0145] (Step S2) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not it has received information (a command) indicating that the operating means has been operated (turned ON). In this example, when the lever 15 is pulled (when the lever 15 is moved to the ON position), information indicating that the lever 15 is ON is transmitted to the performance control means 300. If the performance control means 300 determines that it has received this information (step S2: YES), it proceeds to the processing of step S3. On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received this information (step S2: NO), it proceeds to the processing of step S4.

[0146] (Step S3) The performance control means 300 starts timing (measuring) the ON time (operation time). In other words, it measures the time since the operation means is turned ON (i.e., the time the lever 15 is pulled). After the processing of step S3, the process proceeds to step S5. Note that if the operation means is the performance button 26 (a button that can be pressed), the ON time (operation time) is the time the button is pressed.

[0147] (Step S4) The performance control means 300 determines whether the operation means is valid. In other words, it determines whether the valid operation time is continuing. If it is determined that the operation means is valid (step S4: YES), it proceeds to the processing of step S2. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation means is not valid (step S4: NO), it ends the processing.

[0148] (Step S5) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not it has received information (a command) indicating that the operation of the operating means has ended (turned OFF). In this example, when the operation of pulling the lever 15 is stopped and the lever 15 is returned to its initial position, information indicating that the lever 15 is OFF is transmitted to the performance control means 300. If the performance control means 300 determines that it has received this information (step S5: YES), it proceeds to the processing of step S6. On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received this information (step S5: NO), it repeats the processing of step S5.

[0149] (Step S6) The performance control means 300 ends the timing (measurement) of the ON time. The ON time can be said to be the time from when the operating means is turned ON until when the operating means is turned OFF.

[0150] (Step S7) The effect control means 300 executes a lottery to determine whether or not a specific effect will be executed, based on the measured ON time and the table shown in Fig. 12. As will be described in detail later, the probability of winning the lottery and determining the execution (occurrence) of a specific effect varies depending on the length of the ON time. Specifically, the longer the ON time, the higher the probability of winning the lottery and determining the execution of a specific effect.

[0151] (Step S8) The performance control means 300 determines whether or not the lottery relating to step S7 has been won and the execution of a specific performance has been decided. If the lottery has been won and the execution of a specific performance has been decided (step S8: YES), the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, if the lottery has not been won and the execution of a specific performance has not been decided (step S8: NO), the process proceeds to step S4. If the lottery has not been won and the operating means remains valid (step S4: YES), the lottery can be held by operating the operating means again. In other words, the lottery can be held multiple times during one variation.

[0152] (Step S9) The effect control means 300 executes a special effect (one-shot announcement effect) that notifies the player that a win has been obtained (a win has been confirmed). In this embodiment, a dedicated sound (voice, sound effect) related to the special effect is output, and multiple lamps emit light in rainbow colors in accordance with the output of the sound, and the effect button 26 vibrates in accordance with the output of the sound. The multiple lamps include the front frame lamp 12 shown in FIG. 1 and the board surface LED (which may be the lighting device 38) of the game board 6 shown in FIG. 3. When the special effect is executed, the player can understand that the fluctuation is a winning fluctuation (a win has been confirmed), and can immerse himself in the joy more quickly.

[0153] The performance control means 300 executes the specific performance for a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) and ends the specific performance when the predetermined time has elapsed. The specific performance is designed to end when the predetermined time (a specified number of seconds) has elapsed. In addition, while the sound related to the specific performance is being output, the output volume of other sounds (performance sounds) is controlled to be reduced. This makes the sound related to the specific performance easier to hear.

[0154] The specific effect may be, for example, the effect button 26 lighting up and vibrating, or a specific sound (sound effect) being output and the lighting device 38 lighting up in a specific color. The specific effect may also be the output of a dedicated sound, the lighting up of a specific lamp (for example, the front frame lamp 12) in a specific color, the vibration of a specific operating means, or the blowing of air toward the player from an air outlet provided in the front frame 10.

[0155] (Step S10) The effect control means 300 disables the operation means based on the execution of the specific effect (ends the valid operation time). If the specific effect is executed once during the variation, the lottery relating to step S7 will not be executed even if the operation means is operated again during the remaining period of the variation after the specific effect has ended.

[0156] In step S5, if it is determined that information indicating that the operation of the operating means has ended (turned OFF) has not been received (step S5: NO), the processing of step S5 is repeated, but the display of the variable special symbols may end during that time. If the variable special symbols stop while the operation of the operating means is continuing (the lever 15 is being pulled), the measurement of the ON time is terminated (forced to terminate) based on that. Furthermore, the lottery related to step S7 is not executed based on the measured ON time.

[0157] Furthermore, in step S9, the special effect is executed for a predetermined time (6 seconds), but the special effect starts just before the special symbol stops changing, and if the special symbol stops changing while the special effect is being executed, the special effect ends (is interrupted) based on the stopping of the special symbol.

[0158] As described above, in this embodiment, an operation related to a specific effect (hidden command effect) can be input via the operating means (e.g., lever 15), and a lottery (step S7) is held based on the cessation of pulling (releasing) the operating means to determine whether or not the specific effect can be executed. Figure 12 is a diagram showing a table used in the lottery related to step S7. The "ON time" in Figure 12 is the time from when the operating means is turned ON to when the operating means is turned OFF.

[0159] If the ON time is 1 second or more but less than 3 seconds, the lottery is executed and the probability that the execution of the special effect is determined (special effect occurrence rate) is 10%. If the operating means is the lever 15, the probability that the special effect will occur when the lever 15 is released is 10%.

[0160] If the ON time is 3 seconds or more but less than 6 seconds, the lottery is executed and the probability that the execution of the special effect is determined (special effect occurrence rate) is 25%. If the operating means is the lever 15, the probability that the special effect will occur when the lever 15 is released is 25%.

[0161] If the ON time is between 6 seconds and 15 seconds, the lottery is executed and the probability that the execution of the special effect is determined (special effect occurrence rate) is 50%. If the operating means is the lever 15, the probability that the special effect will occur when the lever 15 is released is 50%.

[0162] If the ON time is between 15 seconds and 30 seconds, the lottery is executed, and the probability that the execution of the special effect is determined (special effect occurrence rate) is 70%. If the operating means is the lever 15, the probability that the special effect will occur when the lever 15 is released is 70%.

[0163] If the ON time is 30 seconds or more, the lottery is executed, and the probability that the execution of the special effect is determined (special effect occurrence rate) is 95%. If the operating means is the lever 15, the probability that the special effect will occur when the lever 15 is released is 95%.

[0164] In this embodiment, the probability of a specific effect occurring increases stepwise as the ON time (measured time when the lever is OFF) increases. In this embodiment, the probability of a specific effect occurring when the lever 15 is released differs (changes) depending on the length of time the lever 15 is pulled, and the longer the time the lever 15 is pulled, the higher the probability of a specific effect occurring. The rate at which special effects occur increases gradually up to a certain time (30 seconds), but once the time has passed (30 seconds or more), the rate at which special effects occur remains constant (95%).

[0165] By configuring the rate of occurrence of a specific effect to change according to the length of the ON time, the player can select the rate of occurrence of the specific effect he or she desires while counting the timing himself or herself, realizing a new level of interactivity in gaming machines. Also, the player can select the rate of occurrence of the specific effect he or she desires from among multiple rates of occurrence of the specific effect, increasing the player's freedom of choice.

[0166] Furthermore, as described above, if a specific effect is not executed based on a single operation of the operating means, by operating the operating means again during the fluctuation, a lottery that determines whether or not the specific effect will be executed can be held. For example, a player who wishes to enter a lottery with a relatively low probability of a specific effect occurring multiple times (many times) can achieve this by repeatedly operating the operating means for a relatively short period of time. On the other hand, a player who wishes to enter a lottery with the highest probability of a specific effect occurring can achieve this by operating the operating means for a long period of time (30 seconds or more).

[0167] The performance control means 300 may be configured not to execute the processing shown in Fig. 11 when it receives information from the main control board 200 indicating that the variation of the special symbol is a losing variation. In other words, in the case of a losing variation, the operation means is not enabled, the ON time of the operation means is not measured, and the lottery (step S7) is not executed. By configuring the processing to be executed only in the case of a winning variation, the processing load can be reduced. Even in the case of a losing variation, the operating means is activated and the ON time of the operating means is measured, but the lottery (step S7) may be configured so that a table with a 0% probability of winning is selected based on the losing variation, and the lottery is not won (the specific effect does not occur).

[0168] Here, a case where the lever effect shown in FIG. 10(b) (assumed to be a regular effect) is executed while the operation of pulling the lever 15 related to inputting a hidden command is being executed will be described. (1) If the lever 15 is kept pulled, it is not determined that the operation of the lever 15 related to the lever effect (regular operation) has been performed. (2) By returning the lever 15 to the initial position (OFF position) and then pulling the lever 15 to the ON position again, it is determined that the operation of the lever 15 (normal operation) related to the lever effect has been performed. At this time, the measurement of the ON time related to the input of the hidden command is terminated based on the fact that the lever 15 has been returned to the initial position (step S6). (3) Based on the determination that a regular operation has been performed in (2) above, an effect (celebration effect) is executed via various effect devices to notify the player of a win. Hereinafter, this effect will be referred to as the regular effect. Furthermore, a lottery (step S7) is executed according to the ON time measured in (2) above, and if the lottery is won, a specific effect (hidden command effect) is executed. In other words, the regular effect based on the regular operation (lever operation) and the specific effect based on the hidden command operation (lever operation) may be executed in an overlapping manner. It can be said that the control related to the regular operation and the control related to the hidden command operation are executed independently of each other.

[0169] In this embodiment, the priority of notification is set higher for regular effects based on regular operations than for specific effects (hidden command effects) based on hidden command operations. Therefore, when the execution of effects overlaps, a notification related to the regular effect is executed on an effect device (e.g., lighting device 38 or speaker 14) that is the target of notification for both effects. Note that, if there is an effect device with no overlapping effects (notifications), the specific effect (hidden command effect) is executed on that effect device.

[0170] (Variation) In this embodiment, a case has been described in which the variation of the special symbol related to the special symbol lottery is a winning variation, and when the operating means (e.g., lever 15) is operated during the winning variation, a specific effect can be executed to notify that a win has been obtained (a winning result has been confirmed). This specific effect is not limited to an effect that notifies that a win has been confirmed, but may also be an effect that suggests the likelihood of a win, for example. In other words, the specific effect may be configured to execute an effect that suggests that the likelihood of a win is high. The specific effect may be any effect that suggests the result of the special symbol lottery. Furthermore, the specific effect may also be executed in the case of a losing variation. In other words, there may be cases in which the specific effect is executed but the winning result is not obtained (a so-called false win).

[0171] In this modified example, the effect control means 300 activates the operating means (lever 15) based on the start of the special symbol variation, whether it is a winning variation or a losing variation (step S1 in FIG. 11). Then, the effect control means 300 executes the processing of steps S2 to S10 in FIG. 11. The player can operate the activated operating means and end the operation at the desired timing. At this time, a lottery (step S7) is executed based on the ON time, triggered by the end of the operation, and if the lottery is won, a specific effect is executed that suggests the result of the special symbol lottery. When the specific effect is executed, the player can, for example, grasp the probability of winning.

[0172] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine having a gaming area (gaming area 4) in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means (main control board 200) that controls the progress of the game; A performance control means (performance control means 300) that controls performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; A lottery means (special symbol lottery means 230) that performs a lottery based on the game medium entering a predetermined area provided in the game area; and operation means (lever 15, effect button 26, etc.) that can be operated by a player, The effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect that suggests a result of the lottery, the performance control means is capable of setting an operation valid time during which operation of the operation means is valid, The probability of the specific effect occurring varies depending on the operation time of the operation means during the effective operation time.

[0173] By making the probability change depending on the operation time, the player can operate the operation means while counting, determine the operation time of the operation means, and select the desired probability of a specific effect occurring. The player's preference can be reflected in the probability of a specific effect occurring, realizing new interactivity in gaming machines. It also increases the player's freedom of choice. This can increase the enjoyment of the game.

[0174] Furthermore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the effect control means is capable of measuring the operation time from when the operation means is turned ON until it is turned OFF, and based on the operation means being turned OFF, generates the specific effect with a probability according to the length of the operation time. In addition, the effect control means has a higher probability of generating the specific effect as the operation time is longer. In this embodiment, the probability of generating the specific effect increases stepwise as the operation time of the operation means becomes longer during the effective operation time.

[0175] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Furthermore, any component of the present invention can be modified or omitted within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to conventional pachinko gaming machines, i.e., pachinko gaming machines in which players can physically touch game balls and game balls are paid out to a tray when the game balls enter a predetermined winning slot. [Explanation of symbols]

[0176] 4 Gaming area 15 Lever (operating means) 26. Production button (operation means) 200 Main control board (main control means) 230 Special design lottery means (lottery means) 300 Production control means

Claims

1. A gaming machine having a gaming area in which gaming media move, and launching gaming media into the gaming area in response to a player's operation, A main control means for controlling the progress of a game; a performance control means for controlling performance based on information transmitted from the main control means; a lottery means for conducting a lottery based on the entry of a gaming medium into a predetermined area provided in the gaming area; An operation means operable by a player, The effect control means is capable of executing a specific effect that suggests a result of the lottery, the performance control means is capable of setting an operation valid time during which operation of the operation means is valid, A gaming machine in which the probability of the specific effect occurring varies depending on the operation time of the operation means during the effective operation time.

2. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect control means is capable of measuring the operation time from when the operation means is turned on until when it is turned off, and generates the specific effect with a probability corresponding to the length of the operation time based on when the operation means is turned off.

3. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the effect control means increases the probability of generating the specific effect as the operation time is longer.

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